Panache e magazine issue 40

is INAUGURATED

JUN 2015

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40 MAY 2015 ISSUE 1

Contents

Features 62-67

“Mr SUPER CURL” Hugh Singh-Williams shares a snapshot of his modelling, fitness & family life

is INAUGURATED

68-71

Hot-Shots model of the month VICTOR MOMOH

JUN 2015

ISSUE 40

08-15

COVER PAGE STORY A new day dawns for Nigeria & Africa as His Excellency, President MUHAMMADU BUHARI is inaugurated.

44-49

34-35

Boney M the main act at the Wychwood Festival @ Cheltenham Racecourse

06-07

Miss Caribbean UK 2015 GOES NATIONAL

Fatherhood according to Reggae singer Don Campbell

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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

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Coral Consciouslee

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Pily Mirazi

Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

Tony Andrews

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE

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

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04. MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR’s 08. COVER PAGE FEATURE IN CELEBRATION OF MY SISTER’S 16. CULTURE Art Music Literature Politics Entertainment Events Youth Books Television / Film Technology 44. LIVING Health Food Drink Spirituality Travel Wellness Home / Properties Abroad Love & Relationships True life stories 62. FLAIR Pageants Style Fashion Beauty Hair Grooming Shopping 84. ACHIEVE Celebrating achievements Professional services Finances 88. PLEASURE Jokes Fun & games Illustrations Horoscopes Competitions

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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.

In this month’s edition our COVER STORY FEATURES A NEW DAWN FOR NIGERIA! A new day dawns for Nigeria & Africa as His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari in inaugurated.

We celebrate Father’s Day with some excellent features plus many more interesting interviews, articles and competitions for your enjoyment.

Please read and enjoy and remember this African saying: “Lions that do not work together can be defeated by a limping buffalo.”

Clayton Brown Editor

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Advertise with the No.1 Lifestyle publication covering everything relevant to everyday life.

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Editorially we follow our mission statement which is:“Our philosophy as an ethical company is never to print anything that can be seen as demeaning or negative, and to promote the positive contributions and achievements that members of the public have made and are making to positively impact and shape the society in which we live.”

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MISS CARIBBEAN UK 2015 GOES NATIONAL 2015 will see the crowning of a new host of contestants competing for the title of the UK’s Queen of the Caribbean.

Miss Caribbean United Kingdom (MCUK) adds to the richness in diversity offered in the UK, as it attracts Caribbean’s and non-­‐ Caribbean’s alike, keen to enjoy the tropical mix of colour, fashion, dance, gastronomy, music, culture and edutainment.

Among the list of reasons for putting the event on MCUK organisers Clayton and Jacqui Brown state; “it was established to be a grand finale showcase for as many of the individual Caribbean countries’ pageant winners to compete for the overall crown as Miss Caribbean UK.” Positively promoting different Caribbean countries under one umbrella, the event uses pageantry to unify, inspire, educate, entertain and celebrate the historical and cultural impact of the Caribbean within the 6

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United Kingdom. Added, MCUK seeks to address social issues by empowering the next generation to think beyond the physical, whilst encouraging and unearthing new and existing talents. This will work towards increases the numbers of diverse participation and representation in the arts such as theatre, dance, fashion, media, journalism, TV and film – both in front of and behind the camera.

Last year’s inaugural event held at Notting Hill’s heritage site-­‐ the Tabernacle; saw Keeleigh Griffith, representing Barbados, come through the different stages of the pageant to be crowned the winner.

Winning Miss Caribbean UK allows for great exposure and support in the winner’s career aspirations via hitting red carpets, attending special events, backstage networking, guest public appearances, interviews, photo shoots, work experience opportunities and mentoring support. Travel opportunities are also on offer with Keeleigh scheduled to visit Crop-Over Festival in Barbados this summer on behalf of the tourist board.

This year will see increased marketing opportunities for sponsors, supporters and media partners with an extended and more relentless marketing campaign from May to December that will touch London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Luton, Reading, Bristol, Derby, Oxford, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Sheffield, Nottingham, Newcastle, Leicester, Leeds, Cardiff, Newport, Coventry, Dublin and Belfast.

With more promotion, bigger prizes and more opportunities for those who finish first, second and third; 2015 has already seen many more applicants. There will also be more dignitaries and celebrated faces from

sport, media, TV and film, music and politics eager to support the promotion, the regional heats and hit the red carpet for the December pre-Christmas Grand Finals soirée.

Regional heats will take place from September to October and whittle down the final contestants to compete on the 5th December at the St Pancras Pullman Hotel’s prestigious Shaw Theatre. Final contestants are to be judged on the night for all round ability to represent culture and vitality by performing as part of a carnival masquerade band; effectively modelling traditional clothing, evening and sportswear with high‐ end fashion on the runway; demonstrating historical and cultural knowledge of different Caribbean countries; demonstrating public speaking and hidden talents.

Miss Caribbean UK Grand Finals:

Date: Saturday 5th December 2015 Reception: 5.30pm – 6.45pm!

Main Show: 7.00pm – 11.00pm Venue: The Shaw Theatre, 100 ‐110 Euston Road, London, England, NW1 2AJ For further information, press updates, event access, interviews, promotions: email press@misscaribbean. com or call / 07946 088 553 Partnership, sponsorship & support: email contact@ misscaribbeanuk.com or call 07946 088 553 / 07951 308 379 For a contestant application form. www.misscaribbean. com

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Cover page feature 8

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HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT

MUHAMMADU BUHARI

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HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT

MUHAMMADU BUHARI President of Nigeria Assumed office Vice President Preceded by Head of State of In office Preceded by Succeeded by Governor of the In office Preceded by Succeeded by

Personal details Born Town Nationality Political party Spouse(s)

Children Religion Official Website

Military service Allegiance Service/branch Years of service Rank

Alma mater * Nigerian Defence Academy * Mons Officer Cadet School * US Army War College[3]

29-May-15 Yemi Osinbajo Goodluck Jonathan Nigeria 31 December 1983 – 27 August 1985 Shehu Shagari as President of Nigeria Ibrahim Babangida Northeastern State August 1975 – March 1976 Musa Usman Position abolished 17 December 1942 (age 72) Daura, Colonial Nigeria Nigerian All Progressives Congress Safinatu Yusuf (1971–1988), Aisha Halilu (1989–present) 10 Islam http://thisisbuhari.com/ Nigeria Nigerian Army 1961–1985 Major General

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Cover Page Feature HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

Muhammadu Buhari, Muhammadu also spelled Muhammad (born December 17, 1942, Daura, Nigeria), Nigerian military leader and politician, who served as head of state in 1984–85 and became president of Nigeria in 2015.

Educated largely in Katsina, Buhari took military training in Kaduna as well as in Great Britain, India, and the United States. He was involved in the military coup that ousted Yakubu Gowon in 1975 and was appointed military governor of North Eastern state (now Borno) that same year. He was appointed federal commissioner for petroleum resources by Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, who became military head of state when Gowon’s successor, Murtala Mohammed, was assassinated in 1976. By 1977 Buhari had become the military secretary at Supreme Military Headquarters, which was the seat of government. By September 10

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1979 he had returned to regular army duties and commanded a division based in Kaduna.

Although civilian government had returned to Nigeria in 1979 with the election of Shehu Shagari, dissatisfaction with dismal economic conditions and what the military perceived as corrupt politicians led to another military coup on December 31, 1983, and Buhari was chosen unanimously to be the new head of state.

Many of the economic problems that had existed under the Shagari administration also plagued the Buhari regime, and Buhari instituted austerity measures. He took a tough stance on corruption: during his tenure, hundreds of politicians and business officials were tried and convicted or awaited trial on corruption-related charges. His regime launched the “War Against Indiscipline,” a program which sought to promote positive values in Nigerian society, although authoritarian methods were sometimes used in the program’s implementation. In an effort to stop dissent against his policies, Buhari instituted restrictions on the press, political freedoms, and trade unionists.

Although many Nigerian citizens had initially welcomed Buhari’s efforts to root out corruption and improve societal values, the repressive measures employed by his regime, against a backdrop of continuing economic troubles, led to discontent. By August 1985 even the military had had enough, and on August 27 Maj. Gen.Ibrahim Babangida took control of the government. Buhari was detained in Benin City but was released at the end of 1988.

In 2003 Buhari ran for president and was defeated by the incumbent, Olusegun Obasanjo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Buhari ran again in 2007 but was defeated by the PDP’s candidate, Umaru

Yar’Adua, in an election that was strongly criticized by international observers as being marred by voting irregularities. Buhari also stood in the 2011 presidential election, which was praised for largely being transparent, free, and fair, but he again lost to the PDP’s candidate, incumbent Goodluck Jonathan.

shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture. Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place.

In 2014 the All Progressives Congress (APC) party nominated Buhari to stand as its candidate in the 2015 presidential election.

His reputation for being incorruptible and his military background made him an attractive candidate, whom many Nigerians hoped might be able to more effectively handle the threat posed by the Islamic militant group Boko Haram, whose violent acts had terrorized parts of the country in recent years. The March 28 presidential election had 14 candidates, although the real contest was seen as being between Buhari and Jonathan, who was again the PDP’s candidate. In what was Nigeria’s most closely fought election ever, Buhari garnered the most votes—some 2.5 million more than Jonathan, his closest competitor—and was declared the winner. His win marked the first time that the incumbent president had been defeated in Nigeria.

Buhari was inaugurated on May 29, 2015.

I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. With the support and cooperation he has given to the transition process, he has made it possible for us to show the world that despite the perceived tension in the land we can be a united people capable of doing what is right for our nation. Together we cooperated to surprise the world that had come to expect only the worst from Nigeria. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing President will become the standard of political conduct in the country.

Inaugural speech by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari following his swearing-in as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 29th May, 2015 I am immensely grateful to God who has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy. Nigerians have

I would like to thank the millions of our supporters who believed in us even when the cause seemed hopeless. I salute their resolve in waiting long hours in rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes and stay all night if necessary to protect and ensure their votes count and were counted. I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media. At the same time, I thank our other countrymen and women who did not vote for us but contributed to make our democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive.

I THANK ALL OF YOU. Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. www.panacheoccasions.com

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Cover Page Feature I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.

A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them.

These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.

Our neighbors in the Sub-region and our African brethren should rest assured that Nigeria under our administration will be ready to play any leadership role that Africa expects of it. Here I would like to thank the governments and people of Cameroon, Chad and Niger for committing their armed forces to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria.

I also wish to assure the wider international community of our readiness to cooperate and help to combat threats of cross-border terrorism, sea piracy, refugees and boat people, financial crime, cyber-crime, climate change, the spread of communicable diseases and other challenges of the 21st century.

At home we face enormous challenges.

Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns.

We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems.

In recent times Nigerian leaders appear to have misread our mission. Our founding fathers, Mr Herbert Macauley, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Malam Aminu Kano, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr Eyo Ita, Chief Denis Osadeby, Chief Ladoke Akintola and their colleagues worked to establish certain standards of governance. They might have differed in their methods or tactics 12

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or details, but they were united in establishing a viable and progressive country. Some of their successors behaved like spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house.

Furthermore, we as Nigerians must remind ourselves that we are heirs to great civilizations: Shehu Othman Dan fodio’s caliphate, the Kanem Borno Empire, the Oyo Empire, the Benin Empire and King Jaja’s formidable domain. The blood of those great ancestors flow in our veins. What is now required is to build on these legacies, to modernize and uplift Nigeria.

Daunting as the task may be it is by no means insurmountable. There is now a national consensus that our chosen route to national development is democracy. To achieve our objectives we must consciously work the democratic system. The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution. We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. We shall charge them to apply themselves with integrity to stabilize the system.

For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out oversight functions and doing so expeditiously.

The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past. The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedevilling governance today.

Elsewhere relations between Abuja and the States have to be clarified if we are to serve the country better. Constitutionally there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account. While the Federal Government

cannot interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross corruption at the local level is checked. As far as the constitution allows me I will try to ensure that there is responsible and accountable governance at all levels of government in the country. For I will not have kept my own trust with the Nigerian people if I allow others abuse theirs under my watch.

However, no matter how well organized the governments of the federation are they cannot succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organized private sector, the press and civil society organizations. I appeal to employers and workers alike to unite in raising productivity so that everybody will have the opportunity to share in increased prosperity. The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today - and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism.

Nigeria's President Buhari's Speech At Inauguration

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Cover Page Feature My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely; Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment especially among young people. For the longer term we have to improve the standards of our education. We have to look at the whole field of medicare. We have to upgrade our dilapidated physical infrastructure.

The most immediate is Boko Haram’s insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory cannot be achieved by basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain until Boko Haram is completely subdued. But we cannot claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents.

This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory.

Boko Haram is a mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the 14

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group is subdued the Government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connections to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a recurrence of this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko haram. We shall overhaul the rules of engagement to avoid human rights violations in operations. We shall improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human right violations by the Armed Forces.

Boko Haram is not only the security issue bedevilling our country. The spate of kidnappings, armed robberies, herdsmen/ farmers clashes, cattle rustlings all help to add to the general air of insecurity in our land. We are going to erect and maintain an efficient, disciplined people – friendly and well – compensated security forces within an over – all security architecture.

The amnesty programme in the Niger Delta is due to end in December, but the Government intends to invest heavily in the projects, and programmes currently in place. I call on the leadership and people in these areas to cooperate with the State and Federal Government in the rehabilitation programmes which will be streamlined and made more effective. As ever, I am ready to listen to grievances of my fellow Nigerians. I extend my hand of fellowship to them so that we can bring peace and build prosperity for our people.

No single cause can be identified to explain Nigerian’s poor economic performance over the years than the power situation. It is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even

less. Continuous tinkering with the structures of power supply and distribution and close on $20b expanded since 1999 have only brought darkness, frustration, misery, and resignation among Nigerians. We will not allow this to go on. Careful studies are under way during this transition to identify the quickest, safest and most cost-effective way to bring light and relief to Nigerians.

Unemployment, notably youth unemployment features strongly in our Party’s Manifesto. We intend to attack the problem frontally through revival of agriculture, solid minerals mining as well as credits to small and medium size businesses to kick – start these enterprises. We shall quickly examine the best way to revive major industries and accelerate the revival and development of our railways, roads and general infrastructure.

Your Excellency’s, my fellow Nigerians I cannot recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us. At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfil our long – standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realizing our mission as a great nation.

Our situation somehow reminds one of a passage in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life, Is bound in shallows and miseries.

We have an opportunity. Let us take it.

THANK YOU. Muhammadu Buhari President Federal Republic of NIGERIA and Commander-in-chief of the Armed forces

Seal of the President of Nigeria.svg.

Related Links: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=fwZc8O0k-a8 Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari's Inaugural Speech - Part1 29 May 2015th https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=rxXTSmWl91s Inauguration Ceremony: Buhari inspects the soldiers on the parade ground https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=5DlV3grN9IE Nigeria 2015 Inauguration: Adams Oshiomole Advises Buhari To Engage Labour https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=pHRX_95ccms SaharaTV Exclusive Interview With Vice President Yemi Osinbajo https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kHGkcJsl-zI President Muhammadu Buhari first Assignment

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CULTURE

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Culture

Exclusive Interview

Exclusive interview with Nigeria’s Media Prowess PAT

OBILOR

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

I

must say that I was very happy when Pat Obilor agreed to let me interview her As a young lady with a positive view of life, award winning Broadcaster; Pat Obilor is the CEO, Sparkles Media, brains behind sparklers magazine, “Standout with pat” show, The Entrepreneur’s league (TEL Group) and the Pat Obilor Speech Academy (POSA).

She is a UK certified media and social entrepreneur; passionate about mentoring young people and her immediate community.

With over six years of Media experience and an established track record with top media stations in Nigeria, which includes the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), AIT and Raypower FM, Splash FM 105.5, Diamond FM 101.1 where she started as an undergraduate, this damsel is a repertoire of creativity, knowledge and humble sophistication who has a penchant for hosting entertainment shows, discussion programmes and exclusive interviews. Pat had her first degree at the University of Ibadan where she studied theatre arts and bagged a professional Diploma in TV Presenting at the London Media Academy.

She also had her Masters degree in Theatre Arts, University of IBadan with specialization in Media.

Can you tell us what Pat Obilor stand for?

Thank you, the name Pat Obilor represents many good things. It stands for values such as self acceptance, love, openness, focus, entrepreneurship, youthfulness and discipline.

Pat Obilor is spiritual, dainty and spontaneous.

Tell our international readers what keeps you inspired to continue within the TV entertainment industry for so long?

Passion keeps me going. Besides, I am a very optimistic person. I do have my down times but I dust off easily because I understand that there is always a shining light at the end of the tunnel for me. Also, I love everything about the media and entertainment industry and I don’t see myself doing something not related to it. However, I can function in other capacity because I am versatile.

Can you see African movies crossing over to outside the African continent without the Holly/PineWOOD branding?

Well, I think the holly, gbolly of Nolly branding in movie industries today are just clichés. They don’t define our arts, culture or African flavor and creativity. Before the Nigeria movie scene adopted the name- Nollywood, we already have it going since the days of the movieLiving in Bondage, Glamour Girls etc. Nigerian movies have evolved. Although, there is still room for improvements but I want to believe that the Nigerian movie industry has grown rapidly and there is no going back.

How long have you been doing what you do in media?

I’ve been in the media and entertainment industry for over 6 years.

How did you feel when you heard the news that APC via General Buhari won the election?

I felt nostalgic and patriotic for my country. I felt a wind of change not because Goodluck didn’t try but because we conducted another election without so much bloodshed or war as people have anticipated. Some almost died of hypertension due to fear of the unknown after elections. But as God would have it, www.panacheoccasions.com

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Culture

Exclusive Interview

it all came and went. In respect of the 2015 presidential election which made the world standstill on the 28th of March, I see a beam of hope on electioneering process in Nigeria.

This also, does not mean that, there wasn’t any form of manipulations in the election being pummelled by the godfathers inherent in every state of the federation.

unimaginable opportunities, establishments, people, countries and media presence. I am happy and proud of my choice of business as a media entrepreneur and Radio/TV host. However, there is still room for more improvements and I am still open for more positive platforms for my various media initiatives.

But on a positive light, let’s thank God for a successful election which to my fellow Nigerians, have ushered in a new wind of Change. Let’s hope that this wind blows away our fears, our pains and our limitations. To our incoming president, Gen. M. Buhari, The situation of our country is no news and the desires of the people are already known by you. It is our hope that he shall act swiftly and perform like a true Commander in chief when sworn in. I also on behalf of fellow Nigerians, implore you to remember the old men and women, youths, civil servants and university professors who voted for you. We also hope that your government shall bring alive, this wind of change that Nigeria needs while bringing an end to terrorism, corruption and human basic insufficiencies.

Did you have the support of your family when you said you wanted to be in the TV/ Media business?

Yes I do. In my family, I am the only one in the entertainment scene so it’s a big deal for them.

I could recall a time when I was interviewed early this year on Africa Magic, the excitement on my family members made me happy and it confirmed their support for my media career.

How do you see the future for Nigeria?

Just like TY Bello once sang, we are the future.

There is no future for Nigeria without its youths. The positive growth of Nigeria as the giant of Africa is coming strong but there is a need to focus on the development of the youths so they can be properly integrated into the leadership system. If this is not done, thousands of Nigerians will keep leaving the country for greener pastures in foreign lands.

Do you think that your choice of business has changed you for better or worse?

It has added great things to my life. It has made me who I am today and exposed me to 18

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What reaction do you tend to get from friends, followers or Fans regarding you being in the TV/Media industry?

Although I live for others but I don’t let people’s opinion bother me much. I got a different life and we all have different purpose to fulfill. I know a lot of people but I keep few friends who appreciate me and accept me the way I am.

What do you consider are your main passions in life?

My passion is to live a great life, a life of fun, laughter and love. I want to be a blessing to young people out there, indigent youths, young girls and my immediate family. I am also marital conscious. I want to have a great marriage and raise wonderful children.

What would be your best choice of where to live in the world and why?

My husband might have to determine that.

However, in my prime age, I would love to live in Lagos anytime I am in Nigeria and London

because it’s not a long distance and it’s a place I am used to already. I chose Lagos because it is the hub where everything happens especially if you are in the entertainment scene. I like London because I feel accommodated and at ease when I am there. Ibadan is a great place to stay too. I grew up there and it is fast becoming the home of hospitality indeed. Eventually, I could retire there much later, after the hurdles of life and my kids all grown, I would choose a cozy quiet state like Ibadan to enjoy my last days with my spouse

by God’s grace. If not for anything, for the Amala delicacy…lol.

What are you currently working on for 2015 & beyond?

Career wise, I am working on three things.

My Magazine, my TV show and the third edition of my Annual Youth Conference.

The maiden edition of my entertainment and lifestyle Magazine; Sparklers will be launched during my annual conference- STANDOUT. It is an annual youth and celebrity conference geared towards motivating, networking and creation of jobs for young graduates.

The conference gives the youths a platform to be empowered by well established entrepreneurs, corporate bodies and showbiz figures that have made indelible marks in their chosen career to network with young yearning generation of leaders. Since 2011, the conference have played host to veterans of diverse field such as Segun Odegbami, Dr. Richard Afonja, Chief Opa Williams, RMD, Chief Yanju Adegbite and Funke Akindele (aka) Jenifa. The 3rd edition would is billed to hold on August 20th at Trenchard hall, University of Ibadan and our proposed guest for 2015 edition, are JayJay Okocha, Rev. Victor Adeyemi, Omotola Jolade and UK based speaker, Paul Kayode Joash. The good news is that, the annual conference has now

been extended into a TV show although, the conference would still be held annually so we welcome individual support and cooperate partnership for this TV show. Thank you.

Why have you decided to extend it to a TV show and what should we expect from the show?

The world is a global village and there is a need to be connected. Standout youth event is a long-term initiative and to power it, there is a need to expand and empower more people.

Thus, with the slogan...Celebrating your uniqueness, “Standout with Pat” is a celebrity TV show poised to project the unusual things in the society as well as celebrate the extraordinary in people. From the standpoint of originality and self acceptance, the show showcases the uniqueness of individual personalities in various endeavors and how they have attained recognition against all odds at the cost of being who they are.

On the programme, People would be entertained informed and inspired to do something worthwhile with their lives as they embrace what makes them unique.

Of course, it is our differences that make us beautiful and so, it aims to motivate the audience about the values of appreciating and believing in one’s unique lifestyle and using what is unique about them to be a blessing to others. It is also spiced up with many creative segments you will love. More details of the programme airing schedule and channels would be communicated soon and it would be available on my Online TV via its website: www.standoutwithpat.tv .

Do you tend to have New Year’s Resolutions?

I don’t have New Year resolutions but I do have New Year plans and I work towards them www.panacheoccasions.com

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at my own pace. I am a focus driven person.

Once I embark on something, I make it happen and if I can’t seem to work it out sometimes, I breathe and let it be but I would return to it once I’ve gathered momentum for it.

What is the one thing your life experiences have taught you while working that you would like to teach to the younger generation?

I have three experiences not one. Discipline, volunteerism and service: these three things are virtues and work ethics that will take anyone far in life. Young people should seek work experience first before money. Money is good but it is not a prerequisite to achieving an in-depth career. As an undergraduate at the University of Ibadan, I started my career by volunteering in my school’s Radio station and I have spent the vital parts of my media career volunteering and rendering services which at times, go for free. I also do my job with utmost discipline and that has helped me achieve more and also connected me to many people across the world. Finally, believe in yourself and know that for every vision you have, there is a provision for it. Never wait for the right time. It won’t come, START NOW. Do you have any real fears in life?

As a Christian, I understand that God has given me the spirit of peace and sound mind but Sometimes, I worry about my father. My mother passed on when I was barely 12 and he is all I have after God. I am not born with a silver spoon and my father sacrificed a lot for me to be where I am today so I have a desire to make him proud. Also, I think about how I am going to settle down, have children and still practice my media career. These are really great concerns for me but I know with God, all things are possible.

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What did you love most about growing up in Nigeria/England?

First, I did not grow up in England, I started coming to England when I grew up and realized what I wanted out of life. I grew up in Nigeria and I love the fact that I could adapt to different situation both harsh and pleasant.

And of course, Nigerians are special species of humanity and it is a great country. If you could survive in Nigeria, you could survive elsewhere.

Describe in three words what is real love to you?

Real love for me is an in-depth feeling of compassion, selflessness and acceptance.

For me, real love is when you give me your undivided attention and also invest in my vision.

If you had the chance to do things again in life what would you do differently?

I would love like I have never been hurt, I would dance like no one is watching and I would laugh like I had the best of teeth.

What is your reaction to the Award Winning Publication of Panache e-Magazine?

Panache e-Magazine is a custodian of everything Africa which highlights our values, innovation and culture. It is a publication that would be celebrated all over the world for many years to come, an emerging media coliseum in the making. I am happy and proud to be associated with this magazine and my gratitude extends to the management. Let’s keep upholding the media industry in all facets with a positive hope that things shall get better in Africa and that the world would become like heaven on earth.

Pat Obilor - Ceo,Sparkles Media Host: StandoUt www.standoutwithpat.tv

PAT OBILOR

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Exclusive Interview

A True Reggae Queen

TOYIN ADEKALE

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

I

am so proud to say I have known her since the 1980's and worked with her on many shows.

TOYIN ADEKALE (pronounced – toying add-eecar-lee) Toyin Adekale singer/songwriter/actress/ presenter and now author, was born in London/England to West African parents.

Toyin had a successful career in music as a singer/songwriter, travelling all over the world, performing for Kings & Queens, Presidents & Prime Ministers and dignitaries. In her own words, “You sing to 1,000, 10,000 and 100,000 people on great stages, you leave the stage and there’s still a void”. This awakening saw her departure from the world famous group Boney M featuring Maize Williams with whom she shared the stage with for 13 years. Her platform was as varied as her life from clubs, theatres and stadiums, to Palaces and State buildings such as the Houses of Parliament in London, to the Kremlin in Russia.

Toyin Adekale’s career started at the tender age of 15 as a solo artist, where she also discovered her gift for harmony. Having sung with nearly all the reggae greats from Dennis Brown and Gregory Isaacs, her gifts were sought by other genre’s where she became vocal coordinator/ arranger and backing vocalist to the likes of Soul II Soul, Imagination, Cliff Richard, Maxi Priest and sharing the stage with so many great names too numerous to mention.

During Toyin’s solo career she was the fourth

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member of Boney M (featuring Maizie Williams for 13 years).

In 2005 Toyin Adekale came to the US with her children, putting her career, family and fans behind her to live a somewhat "normal life" of motherhood and a total change of lifestyle. In the first 2 years of Toyin’s transitioning to American life, she also faced some serious life changing challenges and helplessness brought on by life issues. During this time Toyin found a new calling on her life and an overwhelming desire to cause positive change and effect in other people’s lives in everything she does, whether it be singing, presenting or acting. Toyin had touched people with her music in the past, but not the way she now desired.

Toyin’s writing skills and theatre experience, laced with her musical background was to be amalgamated for that higher calling at last. Toyin was no longer pursuing a career of fame and fortune, she had once tasted. Instead, her new path was now pursuing her.

Toyin Adekale wore many belts as an artist. She had the UK’s first reggae choir ‘Talithavoices’, label and Arts & Entertainments Company, Talithavoices Enterprise, which is an umbrella of all forms of artistic expression in the name of entertaining, whilst improving people’s lives.

Toyin has finally come to where she believes has been called to, as the pages unfold and her stories are now told in her new book (with a single of the same title "I DO, DO YOU?" 2012 Toyin sings unto Him a love song “With You I’m Born Again”

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Can you tell the people what you have been doing over the year of being a noted Reggae Star? Are you married?

Kids? Etc.

I have two beautiful children. I’ve been busy running my Real Estate Company in the States and supporting my children in their careers.

My son is 18 and a sponsored skateboarder, also has his own socks line and T-shirts doing well. My daughter is 23 and pursuing her own solo career as a singer/songwriter and dancer.

She has just released her new EP ‘Melodies of Madness’

Tell our international readers what keeps you inspired to continue within the entertainment industry for so long?

People are what matter, I’m in it as long as they want me. Most importantly the music I do now (though far and few between) is with purpose. It is more about purpose now, than fame or status. I want to leave something behind that will encourage, teach, bring joy, laughter, growth etc.

Can you see yourself crossing over to the 1.3 Billion within the African continent and what plans you have to market to the said continent?

I am very proud of my rich African heritage and it would be my ultimate goal to be embraced by my people regardless of genre. One thing I can say for Nigerians in particular, wherever they have found me, they really do make me feel proud as they show how proud they are not just of my art but additionally my origin.

I have always known you within the Reggae Music industry since the 1980’s, How long have you been doing what you do?

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I’ve been in the industry for 35 years….wow.

That’s even crazy to me when you bring it to my attention as I don’t really think about it.

But yes my musical roots began in Reggae music. Funny enough not in Lovers Rock as people would think, but actually in Roots under the management of Fatman, whilst with my then group Instigators (Mafia & Fluxy). Fatman then released our debut single “Let’s Make Love”, which did pretty well for us. Following that my first solo single with Anthony Brightley “Tough A Four Leaf”, then onto Gee Baby, “Here I Go Again” “,Undying Love”, ….ete, etc, etc But in answer to your question, no I’ve not always done just reggae, neither do I now only do reggae. I used to be vocal coordinator/arranger/backing vocalist for many acts of varied genres, Imagination, Soul II Soul, Gabrielle, Cliff Richard (which I absolutely loved)for many great names far too many to mention. I was also a member of Boney M (Featuring Maizie Williams) for 13 years…

Please can you name some of the Record companies & projects you have worked on over the years?

The first ever label was Fatman’s Love Bird label, then Anthony Brightley’s Sir George Label. Following that I partnered with Total Contrast and Criminal Records was born. I was then working with the great Lloyd Charmers (friend and father figure). Thereafter I was signed to EMI records and then Mikey Koos’s Merger label. I released some music with Steely & Clevie and then decided to take matters into my own hands and set up my own label Talithavoices Label. On which my product is today.

Regarding other artists, I can’t even begin to list them all as I can’t even remember half of them, but some that were memorable

experiences was working on the Ruddy Thomas album, Gabrielle’s ‘Rise’ and ‘When A Woman’, Maxi Priest’s ‘Peace Throughout the World’, ‘Tongue n Cheeks’ projects, Soul II Soul’s “Missing You” Dennis Brown, Gregory Issacs, Dave Stuart (Eurythmics) “Secrets”…. the list goes on.

How do you tend to pick who is to be the producers you work with project to project?

So far they’ve stressed an interest in working with me and we just do it, schedules permitting of course. Which brings me to one funny ongoing story. Ariwa Records, Mad Professor – we both toured extensively and have been trying to be in one country at the same time long enough to get the album we’ve always talked about recorded. Would you believe we’re still talking about when he last visited Seattle, Washington, where I now live. Maybe one day when I return to the UK. We’ll have to see.

Did you have the support of your family when you said you wanted to be in the music business?

An African family….lol. R U kidding? Ok let me retract. My parents wanted me to be a lawyer or a doctor (isn’t that every African family…lol). So I done what I would never advise anyone to do….I ran away to pursue my dream…it meant that much to me. I should also mention that I was only 15. I was blessed and cursed with my first hit record.

The support came after, when they realized how serious I was and that I was not going to put my education on the back burner. It was equally important. Today my mother couldn’t be prouder. My father died a very proud man. He would tell anyone with pride what I had achieved.

What reaction did you get when President General Muhammadu Buhari won the Nigerian Election?

To be honest living here in America, I feel a little detached. My reaction however, is I look forward to singing for this President as I did the late president in 2000? It is always an honor to sing for my country as with the Jamaica vs Nigeria (Eagles vs the Reggae Boys) at QPR, where I had the honor yet again to sing the Nigerian national anthem. These are memories that I’m really proud of.

What do you consider are your main passions in life?

Music with purpose. Public Speaking at events such as Domestic Abuse and the Power of Forgiveness and talking to young people about the realities of the music business. Especially sharing the realities of show business.

What are your plans for 2015 and beyond regarding Nigeria and Africa?

Maybe I need a manager for the continent of Africa. I’m sad to say I’ve had many invitations to Nigeria, which all fell through. Maybe when a solid and serious one comes through this year that goal will be achieved. I plan to release another book, following the success of my last book “I Do, Do You?” and push the single “The Storm is Over – Sunshine’s Here”.

I also plan to put on a play this year for the book “I Do, Do You?” My daughter’s project is another focus for me as well as my son’s product line. So it looks like it’s going to be a busy year. It has been already for sure. I’d also like to produce some of the new talent with some of the old sounds combined with the new generation.

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Did you have New Year’s Resolutions regarding your profession & other hobbies?

Starting is not as important as finishing…

Finish it.

What is the one thing your life experiences have taught you while working that you would like to teach to the younger generations?

The impossible for man is possible with God….ALL things are possible to them that believe. If the WHY is big enough, the HOW will appear. Do things that better more than just yourself, then you’re bound for success.

What did you love most about life when you were growing up & where did you grow up?

I was born in South London, but grew up in North London/Tottenham. My fond childhood memories are a little hazy right now. It got better as I got older.

Describe in three words what is real love to you?

Give Love Unconditionally.

If you had the chance to do things all again in life what would you do differently?

Invest more into my career instead of waiting for others to do so. I would also have documented a lot more, so as to show my children some of the great moments. I would also have protected my works better.

A lot of us in the industry were in it for love first, money second if at all and didn’t protect our works.

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What is the message that Toyin Adekale is trying to put across to the people?

Hope to the hopeless, encourage the discouraged, forgiveness, forgiveness and more forgiveness of others that you may free yourself. That all that you see in me is owed to God. It’s in you too.

What do you feel that you could do better for the production?

Since getting my Bachelor’s Degree in Entertainment Business, There is so much I can and will and already do better. Thank God, Structure, know your numbers, Trend Analysis, Demographics and so much more, I can teach it.

SONGS BY: TOYIN ADEKALE JEALOUSY

www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYbAj_zwkR4 27 Mar 2010 - Uploaded by browningbbw A cover of the TT Ross classic. Think Toyin's voice sounds really smooth on this version.

TO SEE YOU SMILE

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALtB9MXE8R0 12 Sep 2009 - Uploaded by browningbbw Toyin Adekale began her singing career at the tender age of 15, taking the reggae scene by storm as a writer

WITH YOU IM BORN AGAIN

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfd9q4792Yw 29 Jun 2012 - Uploaded by Toyin Adekale Toyin Adekale - With You Im Born Again Video/Photgraphy: Christopher Charles Williams Publishers

TOYIN ADEKALE

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Nigerian-born sprint athlete Femi Seun

F

Ogunode

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

emi Seun Ogunode (born 15 May 1991) is a Nigerian-born sprint athlete who competes internationally for Qatar.

Femi Seun Ogunode moved to Qatar in October 2009 and began international competition the following year. He won the 100 metres and 200 metres at the West Asian Championships and was entered into the 2010 Asian Games www. femiogunode.com.

Femi Seun Ogunode

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At the Games in Guangzhou he took two gold medals, winning over 200 m and 400 metres with personal bests of 20.43 seconds and 45.12 seconds, respectively. This made him only the second athlete in Games history to have won both events at the same competition – Milkha Singh first achieved this at the 1958 Asian Games. Femi Ogunode Femi Seun Ogunode, Asia’s fastest man, is a multiple-medal winning Nigerian-born Qatari sprint athlete who competes internationally for Qatar.

Can you tell us what you stand as Femi Seun Ogunode, Asia’s fastest man, is a multiplemedal winning Nigerian-born Qatari sprint athlete who competes internationally for Qatar?

I am a young man that represent every youth out there, i consider myself a youth ambassador, am grateful and proud of my achievements so far and I believe if I can make it this far anyone who is determined can too especially the younger generation.

Tell our international readers what keeps you inspired to continue within the sport industry for so long?

Basically my inspiration comes from God, however my passion for athletics and the fact that I am opportuned and privileged to be able to showcase my talent/ability in the sport industry as well as working with people that believe in me definitely make me want to do more and go further.

Tell us who you have worked with over the years and where via Qatar?

My concentration over the past years have been on improving my athletic skills up until recent that am opened to working with people outside my profession and we are still in the process of making it come to life. I haven’t really worked with people outside Qatar except from my endorsement with Nike.

How long have you been doing what you do & what year did you start?

About 8 years now, 2007.

How did you feel when you heard the news that APC via General Buhari won the Nigerian election?

I do try to follow up on politics in Nigeria and I am of the opinion that Buhari would be a better candidate and leader considering he was once a military head of state, I feel like he’s discipline and can incorporate his experience as a military ruler into the loops especially as regards corruption, even though the military regime is completely different from democracy as we have now .However, my prayer was and is that God should give us a leader that has the interest of our great nation at heart and has what it takes to lead a nation rightly and justly, having said that I will oblige every Nigerian to play a positive role in improving the nation, one man can’t change the state of the country, Nigerians have to play their role into making a difference.

How do you get to be compete in Qatar for Qatar?

I was discovered by a man I have so much respect for and was invited to come over.

Do you think that Femi Seun Ogunode choice of business has change you for better or worse?

I don’t know what i will rather be doing other than what am doing now, as an individual as regards work/business/profession i believe people should do what they enjoy so it won’t exactly be much of work but fun doing it but we all don’t have the privilege to make our passion our work, am grateful I make a living from what am passionate about. So I will say it has it’s ups and downs but overall, it’s been amazing and definitely for the best.

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Did you have the support of your family when you said you wanted to be into the sport business?

Absolutely, my family is my number one fan, and am from a family that have passion for sports especially athletic, from my dad to my mom and siblings. Every one of us have done one sport at a point and two of my brothers are still into athletics, watch out for Segun and Tosin Ogunode. Lol...

What reaction do you get from friends, followers or Fans regarding you still being in Qatar?

Hmmmm..... my fans/followers have been very supportive both from homeland and here in my adopted country, I would like to use this opportunity to thank everyone that have supported me and followed me as I grow in my career over the year. God bless you all.

What do you consider are your main passions in life?

Am passionate about my Family and definitely Sports.

What would be your best choice of where to live in the world and why?

I think Bulgaria, but I’ll always go for a small peaceful town.

What are you currently working on for 2015 and beyond?

Right now my concentration is on improving and getting ready for next year’s Olympic Games.

Do you tend to have New Year’s Resolutions regarding your profession & hobbies?

Not really into New Year’s resolutions, but I definitely always want to do better as an individual and professionally.

What is the one thing your life experiences have taught you while working that you would

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like to teach to the younger generations in Sports?

Never give up on your dreams and believe in yourself. Be persistent and put your best into whatever you do, don’t settle for mediocre.

Do you have any real fears in life?

I don’t really have fears, I believe anyone with God should fear no one or nothing but God. What did you love most about life when you were growing up?

My relationship with my dad.

Describe in three words what is real love to you?

Giving without expectations.

If you had the chance to do things all again in life what would you do differently?

I believe my journey or life have been how it should be so far, without my past I won’t be here, however, whatever I might have left out in the past I hope I can still make up for it.

Femi S. Ogunode www.femiogunode.com

Ethiopian News AMBASSADOR VOTED AFRICAN DIPLOMAT OF THE YEAR H.E. Ambassador Berhanu Kebede was presented with the 2015 Diplomat of the Year Award for Africa by Diplomat Magazine on 21st April, in the presence of more than 80 Heads of Mission and senior diplomats in London’s iconic Langham Hotel.

The Ceremony was hosted by former UK Ambassador Charles Crawford CMG, who presented 10 awards to Heads of Mission and top diplomats.

On receiving his award, the Ambassador thanked Diplomat Magazine for organising the event and for creating a platform for the Diplomatic corps, saying “It is a great honour for me to stand here today to receive this Award.

I am sincerely grateful for this nomination and would like to thank all who have worked with me. The Diplomat Magazine Awards have become the hallmark of excellence in diplomatic circles, every person dealing in this noble profession strives for this award. And now that I am one of the award winners, I am completely happy.”

“Africa is in the process of transformation…a www.panacheoccasions.com

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Ethiopian News

continent on the rise, now considered a destination of trade and investment”, he said.

“I promise to continue to work with my fellow Ambassadors and High Commissioners to promote the interests of this great continent in my tenure as Ambassador”.

honour at the Ethiopian Embassy in London on 28th April.

The awards also recognised the contribution of Diplomats from other continents. Now in its seventh year, Diplomat magazine’s annual Awards Ceremony is considered to be one of the most highly anticipated events of the diplomatic calendar.

H.E. Berhanu Kebede has had a long career in diplomacy. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1978 and in 1983 transferred to the Diplomatic Mission in Brussels as an economist.

In December 2000, he was appointed Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the Russian Federation, with the rank of Ambassador. In February 2002, he was appointed Ambassador to Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. He was then appointed Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in March 2006, where he has served until the present.

Congratulations Ambassador!

ETHIOPIA APPOINTS FIRST HONORARY CONSUL TO SCOTLAND Ethiopia has for the first time, appointed an Honorary Consul to Scotland.

Professor John Struthers of the University of West of Scotland’s School of Business and Enterprise was appointed in March this year and officially accepted his exequatur, duly signed by H.E. Dr Tedros Adhanom, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, at a lunch in his 32

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As Honorary Consul, Professor Struthers will assist Ethiopia in its efforts to increase its trade and investment links with Scotland, encourage educational and cultural exchanges, and assist the London based Ethiopian Embassy to interact with the Scottish Government, civic society, and the business community.

The Professor will continue his University research work in the economics of commodity price volatility, and in particular commodities such as coffee, one of Ethiopia’ major exports.

The University of the West of Scotland said: “Professor Struthers is keen to highlight the major strides that the Ethiopian economy has made over recent decades with its recent high level of economic growth and major infrastructural improvements. These include the huge Renaissance Dam project and the major expansion in the country’s road and rail network, which is improving transport links between Ethiopia and Djibouti. The country has recently witnessed massive expansion in the number of new universities. These developments, along with the huge potential that Ethiopia has in the area of cultural and religious tourism, means that this is a particularly important period for the country.”

At the official lunch, Professor Struthers said:

“It is a great honour and privilege for me to be appointed as Honorary Consul for Ethiopia in Scotland. Given my economics background and contacts within the business community in Scotland, such as with the Chambers of Commerce and the Scottish Council for Development and Industry, I look forward to playing my part, along with the Ambassador and colleagues at the Ethiopian Embassy in London, in forging links between our two countries.”

ETHIOPIANS CELEBRATE THE 24TH ANNIVERSARY OF GINBOT 20 Diplomats, community leaders, invited guests and members of the diaspora celebrated the 24th Anniversary of the Ginbot 20 (28th May) Victory in London on 6th June 2015.

More than 300 people attended the event marking the fall of the Derg military dictatorship in 1991.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Ambassador

Berhanu Kebede said Ginbot 20 (28th May 1991) heralded Ethiopia’s march towards democracy, peace and prosperity.

This year’s celebration coincided with the successful conclusion of Ethiopia’s

fifth national election, on 24th May, and the country has entered a growth and development trajectory unparalleled in its recent history.

The Ambassador highlighted the encouraging results achieved at the end of the implementation of the first Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP1) and said that GTP2, due to start shortly, will keep the country on track, to achieve Ethiopia’s objective of becoming a middle income country by 2025. He concluded by calling on members the Diaspora to redouble their participation.

Representatives from the Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, SNNP and Somali communities highlighted the significance of Ginbot 20 and the socio-economic progress the country has achieved in the past 24 years. They expressed their commitment to stand firmly with the Government in its development endeavours.

Representatives from the Wales and Southwest England Ethiopian communities also addressed the audience and conveyed a similar message.

A special ceremony was also held where certificates of recognition were awarded to associations that have greatly encouraged their members to participate in development activities during the first GTP period.

A documentary film, produced by the Embassy, depicting Ethiopia’s continued march towards prosperity and development, was screened. You can watch it via our YouTube page at: https://www.youtube.com/ user/EthioEmbassyUK

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Boney M

Boney M the main act at the Wychwood Festival @ Cheltenham Racecourse

T

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

he original Maizie Williams will be celebrating 40 with Boney M next year (2016) of entertaining crowds world wide, and you can clearly see how her fans of all ages are enjoying the classic sounds and sang along to hit like Daddy Cool, Ma Baker, Brown Girl in the Ring and they went crazy for By the Rivers of Babylon and sang with the band word for word, it was humbling to hear.

Maizie was moved by the number of kids that came to have her and other members to sign message to them. Being in such high demand after the show we rushed down the motorway to get them to Gatwick to get a early morning flight to perform in Europe.

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Exclusive Feature

The evocative Nigerian voice and Neo-Blues inspired sounds of Bumi Thomas

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or those that missed Bumi’s latest performance, you still have a chance to hear her evocative voice and Neo-Blues inspired sounds on her newly released EP album Feather Pearl, which is available now on itunes http://geni.us/16jN Over the years, she has captivated audiences through her live performances; from London cafes, bars and jazz haunts to the Royal Opera House. Her influences are wide ranging and include Bjork, Yinka Shonibare, Frida Khalo Miles Davis, Nina Simone and Sade Adu, all of which have that same potent truth and conviction in their music and art.

“My musical journey is essentially about transcending boundaries and is an exploration of the relationship between art, experience and emotion. My work also encapsulates my evolution as a woman.”

Bumi is a dynamic contemporary African, acoustic Jazz-folk-soul singer songwriter whose style is inspired by her multicultural heritage.

To enjoy Bumi’s music is to experience a mix of sound that combines jazz, high life rhythms, Afro-beat, reggae and blues melodies, infused with folk and delivered with soul. A sound rich in texture and stimulating lyrics.

Born in Glasgow, and raised between the tranquillity of a Nomadic desert town and the colourful excitement of Lagos in Nigeria; Bumi is now based in London after completing a degree in Fine Art Media & Visual Communication.

Her music represents the journey of a modern African creative in the UK.

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BUMI THOMAS

Bumi’s says; “My experience in Nigeria as a woman of Yoruba and Igbo heritage living in Hausaland has shaped me. Though I still retain aspects of my British experiences of early childhood; I had a thick Glaswegian accent when we moved to Kano and still retain the Scottish attitude about being less uptight about life.”

As a singer/songwriter, Bumi is inspired by the journey of life, the emotional of the human experience and the opportunity to drive positive change through art and music.

Were she not a musician, a destiny in the arts would still be on the cards; Bumi is a painter and a freelance photographer, with exhibited works in the Truman Brewery and Cre8 Gallery Bumi continues to strive for her goal of “working with young people and women to help find their voices through the arts” She is a founding member of the F.R.I.D.A project (Female Revolution In Dance and Art) based in London and contributed a series of photographs inspired by the life and legacy of feminist cultural icon Frida Kahlo to the project. In her life as both a photographer and a musician, expressing her own truth, stimulating dialogue and adding experiences of beauty is what is most important to her.

Bumi has shared the stage with Muntu Valdo, Nneka, Shingai Shoniwa of the Noisettes, Asa, Keziah Jones, Tony Allen, Sona Jorbatheh and Kenny Thomas; building a fan base that’s is as diverse as her music.

In 2011, Bumi received the Womatt Best of British (BOB) Award for Best Solo Newcomer and was nominated for two BEFFTA awards “Best Female Act” and “Best Female UK Based Afro-Caribbean Act” in 2012. This year she was Nominated for AMA ‘Best Diaspora Act 2014 Her live performances have been going from strength to strength with outings in 2013 at Saluting the Black President Fela Kuti tribute www.panacheoccasions.com

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Exclusive Feature

and the London African Jazz Festival. Bumi also played at the Africa centre summer festival curated by Yinka Shonibare and at the opening of the George Oshodi’s Nigerian Monarch Centenary Exhibition. This year has seen her supporting critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Asa at her only UK gig, for her Bed of Stone tour, at London’s Union Chapel.

Bumi was also invited to contribute to the Vibes and Pressure compilation Album by founder Natty, which was released in July 2014.

Writing about one of her performances in Mobo, Liz Amadi says; “The night kicked off with an amazing set from the beautiful Bumi Thomas with her charming oneiric soul and delicate vocals which grabbed the crowd’s attention, and I’m sure that anyone who hadn’t seen this lady before would be an instant fan, as I was.”

Bumi’s recent performances this year have been: “Women of the world” festival at the south bank centre London. on the 7th March 2015 and “Woman Rising” Lagos, Nigeria on Sunday 22nd March 2015..

For the latest Bumi Thomas news, like her fanpage on Facebook or follow her on Twitter For more information about Bumi Thomas, please contact: Oluseyi Awolesi Management | Music | Promotions AFRO-POP LIVE T: +44 79 39 25 75 58 E: seyi@afropoplive.co.uk E: info@bumithomas.com W: www.afropoplive.co.uk W: www.bumithomas.com

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National Independence days

The Klub International Management Company & Panache e-Magazine would like to wish the African & Caribbean countries featured a very Happy Independence Day this JUNE. Please click on each flag to reveal some more information about each country.

We know you will all have many happy returns for your special days & quite rightly so.

Please contact me should you wish to profile your event in the Klub International section.

Lekan Olujinmi CEO E: - theklubman@ymail.com W: - www.panacheoccasions.com T: - +44 (0) 7831 128 707

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MOZAMBIQU

Republic of MOZAMBIQUE Independence from Portugal June 25th 1975

UE

MADAGASCAR

DJIBOUTI

Republic of MADAGASCAR Independence from France June 26th 1960

Republic of DJIBOUTI Independence from France June 27th 1977

SEYCHELLES

CONGO DRC

Republic of SEYCHELLES Independence from Britian June 29th 1976

Republic of CONGO DRC Independence from Belgium June 30th 1960

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Sponsored Events

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Interested in marketing your business at this event?

CALL: 07951 308 379

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Living

Life

FATHERHOOD ACCORDING TO

DON CAMPBELL

By Coral Consciouslee

I

have been fortunate to be working in the music industry and especially of late, I have been getting to know some of the artists.

One particular artist has always aroused my curiosity besides his handsome looks and his amazing singing voice and that is Don Campbell.

Don has the kind of voice and stage presence that makes one forget where they are, that they should show some decorum and selfcontrol. If you listen to him long enough, not only will you be dancing, you will be screaming at the top of your voice. The man has natural born talent. He has even made me cry (I kid you not).

But what of the man when the music stops and the microphone is switched off? What are his thoughts and aspirations? What is his outlook on life? Where is he going?

These are the questions I posed to him and I am happy to say he was not reserved in his answers.

Donald Campbell was born in London to Jamaican parents. “ I have lived in London my whole life. My late father was from St Thomas Jamaica, where he went back to live when I was younger. My mother, who still lives in London, is from Clarendon Jamaica. I have been to Jamaica many times and love the island and we have our family home in St Thomas.

Growing up was really a pleasure; I made it my own. I am my father’s first born and

after me followed 2 younger sisters and my youngest brother. I often fought especially with my older sister as siblings do, but we all had a really good laugh and made plenty of trouble together. I was very close to my father and remember many happy things.”

I ask him about his love of music: where and when did that begin? Most artists worldwide, claim that their musical history began in church, was this the case for Don? “No. Although as a young boy I regularly went to church with my mother, this was not the case for me. For me, singing was within me from the start. Music has been in my soul from the day I was born. Whether it was singing or playing instruments or writing or putting music together. I always knew this was what I wanted to do and even though my father had advised me to focus on my education or get a skill/trade before doing music, my passion and love for music led me against his good advice. I was in the junior school steel band and from there it all began.

I was always playing some kind of music banging pencils on surfaces, making melodies in my head and singing away. I would listen to the music my parents played and was greatly inspired by Listening to the Ska and Reggae they played as well as me tuning into Soul and Motown.

My biggest influences in musical style growing up were Sam Cooke, Michael Jackson and the Jacksons, Otis Reading, Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight and the Pits, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross and the Supremes. With regards to the fact that I landed into reggae and lovers rock by chance, my influences there are Dennis Brown, John Holt, Gregory Isaacs and Bob Marley. www.panacheoccasions.com

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I have never wanted to give up singing ever. Personal circumstances caused me to take time out but even through that I’ve constantly been writing and putting music together. I’m so thankful for the blessing of my singing that I have been gifted with and even more thankful that I’m in a position to continue the singing. I’m thrilled and very excited to be in the studio and working on my fresh new project”.

As I mentioned before I have had the opportunity to have brief conversations with some of the artists from time to time, Don being one of them. Having a spiritual and philosophical outlook on life myself, I noticed that Don’s views were not too dissimilar.

What/who has contributed to this or what/ who has been a major influence?

“I believe I have always been a very spiritual person within. I even went down the Rastafarian path and even though I didn’t have approval from my father I soon discovered that it was not for me. I have always had a strong belief in God and born into a Christian home, read the bible and its teachings. I have to say my spiritual journey surfaced from within and became more real when I met my wife. Her family too are very spiritual and pure. They have been a huge influence on bringing out my spiritual beliefs; I felt a spiritual connection with her and was completed when I discovered she had the beliefs that I actually had inside. I believe and know we have a soul connection.”

Which brought me on to my next question: How did he meet his lovely wife Rebecca and what made him decide she was “the one”?

“Well what can I say?? This is just really one of Gods works in the making again! Rebecca 46

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DON CAMPBELL

was a gift to me from God that was so unexpected and we both met when we least expected. I just knew there was something when I saw her. She did not make it easy for me and I have to admit that this is the only lady I’ve ever met that gave me such a brush off when we met. She made me wait for months after I met her before she accepted my offer to take her out.

Don and his beautiful wife Rebecca

Rebecca and I have been through so much in life together, she came into my life at a time when I was going through a difficult time and she saw me through every step. She’s been there for me through the hardest times I’ve ever had and took me as I am. She’s the most humble person and never makes any demands on me. She’s been a pillar of strength and has inspired me to be a better man and father. I knew she was the one from the very moment I felt strength and improvement within myself. I felt a feeling that I had never felt in my life. I have honestly never loved until now. This is the first time I’ve experienced love. I am very private and I found that I could freely talk to her and she never judged me and always put me before herself. She’s completely selfless. It was the first time in my entire life that I can honestly www.panacheoccasions.com

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say I loved a lady and wanted to do all I could to make it work. God has blessed me.

I was a man who always said I’d never get married. Now I realise that it was purely because I had not experienced this thing called true love and a spiritual connection.

To love from your heart and soul to be connected to somebody and to get that same feeling back from the one you love. I didn’t need to even think twice the day I proposed to Rebecca I knew it from the depths of my heart. Our wedding was the best day of my life. Our marriage is one of complete trust, understanding, love and respect. We are soul mates and we both want similar things in life.

She knows me completely and better than anyone knows me. We both share our ups and downs and support each other through the good and bad. We have been through trying times and came out stronger than ever. We live in a very happy home always full of love, life and music. I have been blessed all over again to have been welcomed into Rebecca’s family as their own. I have again never experienced a love so real and pure. The last 17 years have been perfect!”

married. I didn’t think of anything other than I really wanted a son. So it happened! I had my son when I was 19 and I was thrilled! He was all I wanted and I wanted to just show him off. One does mature and becoming a father does change you and make you realise responsibilities. This was to come later for me than probably what the norm would’ve been.

I was still very young, really starting my music career and what was to come musically did not really tie in with me being what would have been the normal everyday father. I loved him completely and there will always be a bond with my first born son. I’m very proud of him and the man he has become. Rebecca and I now have our daughter who has really been a huge inspiration to me to become a better man and father. Having her later in life and in such a solid relationship really completed all what I had gained in learning over the years.

It’s not always natural for everyone” Don went on to give some advice about fatherhood.

I feel a lump in my throat, but decide to remain professional; knowing this was our Father’s Day issue of Panache, I clear my throat and ask how he felt when he realised he was going to be a father for the first time?

“Being a father feels no different whether my oldest or my youngest. Every child is a blessing. All I can say is I was very young when I had my first born. All I knew was at that point I wanted to have a son. I just wanted a little boy; it wasn’t practical as a teenager but I really wanted a son. I didn’t think of the practical things and that I should perhaps be in a stable relationship or even 48

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Don, inspired by his daughter to be a better Father

“I would say being a father is life’s biggest responsibility. No matter how old your child, you will always feel responsible for them. You need to make sure you give them the love and support needed in this fast changing society we live in. Make a healthy environment to rear them into respectful individuals. There is so much lack of love and respect, there is a need to have the values of a family unit. Let them know there is a God and to believe in spiritual living. We all have to work, but taking time out for our children is so important.

I love nothing more than the family that I have at home! I love our family holidays and as simple as eating dinner at the table every evening and catching up. Talking to our children is so important, allowing them to be able to approach you with any problems. They become your priority in life. Once you have the respect and love there’s nothing more that can make you proud. When they call you just to say hi and show you respect it’s a reward. Showing the love I have for my wife will also teach my child to grow into a healthy environment of her own and to settle only for a man who will also treat her like a queen. Or I will be there in a shot! It is my duty to look after my home and to keep my family safe.”

Your Eyes” and “Don Campbell The Album” were a huge success, I feel moving away from Trevor and branching out into a collaboration was not the best move for my musical or personal development. But we live and we learn. I also wish that I had met my wife many years ago as her advice and guidance is really invaluable. She always has my best interest moving forward and I know I will never make any more bad decisions with her by my side.

OK….STOP PRESS!! I have found the world’s most perfect man! Don’s life seems rosy and good. Or is it? I ask him if there is anything he could change right now, what would it be?

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY DON CAMPBELL – YOUR WIFE AND CHILDREN ARE FORTUNATE INDEED!!

“I wouldn’t really change much because everything has been a learning experience for me. The only things I would consider changing would perhaps be taking things further with my first late manager Trevor T whom I miss daily. I think our musical journey together had much more potential and I ended it prematurely. Even though “See It In

Listen out for the new album soon to be coming....God bless you!”

Reluctantly, I bring the interview to a close by asking what his plans are for the future.

“I am currently working on my new album.

This is something I’ve wanted to do for a while and it will take longer than usual as I am actually doing everything myself: the music, the instruments, the vocals, the harmonies, the production and all writing.

So it will be completely mine and also a fresh new vibe coming from me. I am also doing some singles which have been released I have recently done “Wonderful” for Stingray, I’ve completed and released “Dance With Me” by NuEdge and about to be released is my latest single “I Like” by Team Gorilla Music.”

Interviewed by: Coral Conciouslee https://www.facebook.com/coral. consciouslee?fref=ts

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FATHERHOOD & MASCULINITY

Reflections on raising our sons & daughters

By Tony Andrews

B

eing a man in the modern information age has never been more mentally and socially challenging. We may have it much easier physically than our ancestors: there’s less pressure to go to war, drunken street brawls are less common, but are we more civilised and/or docile?

• Manual labour jobs have gotten easier with technology and advances in machinery. So what is it to be a man in this day and age?

• Do we have ‘rites of passage’ to help our boys transition from boyhood to adulthood?

• Why do so many interpersonal relationships break down?

• How do our boys find strong exemplary role models to follow?

• How do, and how should, our girls grow up relating to their father, father-figures, older men and boys in general?

• How can absent fathers still be great dads rather than just maintenance providers?

There’s no doubt that in this day and age, there is a crisis when it comes to masculinity. In a modern civilised economy dominated by the service industry, old fashioned values, beliefs and traditions related to gender roles are nothing but sexist, chauvinistic and oppressive to women.

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Now that our sisters are free to fulfil their full potential in any way they see fit, where does it leave our brothers who are striving to be ‘the man’ in the best way they can?

Even more importantly, what do we teach and how do we raise our boys? What are the values, traditions, morals and social structure that we should help them aspire and internalise?

What are the healthiest ways that girls relate to boys and men? What is the role of the father in a girl’s life growing up and how does that relationship affect future relationships?

Brain vs Brawn We tend to live in our heads so much these days… we think a lot, we analyse, we intellectualise. After all, this is what we are taught in school… evaluate the positives and negatives, discuss the advantages and disadvantages, critically analyse… and if we’re not in our heads, we’re in our technology with smart phones, tablets, notebook laptops, the list goes on.

Although we’re, on the whole, highly civilised and dare I say docile, we pay billions to see fully grown adults fight each other in the ring or take each other out on the sports field.

So as we celebrate Father’s Day, kicking off our summer in June, what does it actually mean to be a father and even a man?

Being ‘the man’ What happens when a man has money and good looks? …it all comes down to power.

This is what man (both men and women) are seduced by and always secretly crave. Luckily power means different things to different people. Some people want the power to make anyone do what they want when they www.panacheoccasions.com

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want. Other people want the personal power to serve the Lord. There is then, of course, everything else in between!

The ability to use the power you have, the power given to you by those invested in you, is a hall mark of a true leader. If you are able to use your power, however much or little you have, for the good and benefit of yourself and your fellow man (male and female) then you are ‘the man’, that is a leader, an example and a role model.

A father and a dad To a young child, parents are ‘gods’. They know everything, provide everything and can do anything. Daddies can predict things and see into the future. They can also perform magic, that is, to do things not understood that have little ones like, “OMG! Daddy how did you do that?”

However, as children grow up, they realise that their parents are human, they make mistakes, they get nervous, they have fears. They fail sometimes and not all of their goals in life are realised. They are part of the struggle, fighting their battles, and they are doing the best they can with the cards they’ve been dealt.

When we’re not so hard on our parents for not being gods, that is not being perfect or angels, then we can be easier on ourselves.

At the same time, the mistakes or limitations of our parents motivate us to do better. This is especially true when you become a parent yourself. You want to give your children a better life and the things you never had… as well as of course sharing the good things for your children that you once enjoyed.

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your child’s journey. As a guide, counsellor, teacher, mentor and leader.

Virtue, faith and resilience Many personal relationships break down because people lack backbone. They cannot stomach or tolerate the hard times. They’re happy in paradise when the sun is shining, but they fail to weather the storm and the tremendous hurricanes when they come.

However there is great meaning in adversity for what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. It is important to be aware of the lessons and opportunities for growth in going through the worst situations. Many men and women lack bravery, or faith, including coming face to face with death and all the ugly emotions on the path to that door.

However men are especially built and programmed to thrive by staring death in the face. This is why men are seduced by risk and danger. Women are too, but in different ways.

Some like it directly, while others prefer to see their man take on the challenge. Others, often naively, are extremely risk averse and are terrified of a man living on the edge.

Some men, many men, take ‘unnecessary’ and silly risks. Driving extremely fast, jumping out of aeroplanes, going to the limits of consumption with alcohol, cigarettes or drugs. Eating extremely hot food such as the most spicy curry a human being can (or can’t) handle. All these are so-called tests of a man’s strength, not to mention bravado and ego.

However, a man’s true courage is summed up by what Dom tells Brian (the late Paul Walker RIP) in Fast & Furious 7.

“I’ve seen you jump from trains, dive from planes… hell, I saw the courage the day I met you! You wanna know the bravest thing I ever saw you do? Be a good man to Mia. Being a great father to my nephew, Jack. Everyone’s looking for a thrill, but what’s real is family. Hold on to that.”

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers, father-figures and leaders this June 21st.

Tony 'Urbansmash' Andrews urbansmash@gmail.com Follow Tony @ urbansmash on every social media platform that exists!

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CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS By: Christine Simpson

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

June 20 Lionel Richie- Born - June 20, 1949.

June 10 Maxi Priest - Born - June 10, 1961.

June 8

June 30

John Archer, politician - Born - June 8, 1863 1st Morgan Freeman – actor/director 2nd Otis Deley - television presenter/radio DJ Dennis Haysbert - actor Freddy Adu – soccer player Josephine Baker (1906–1975) – dancer/ singer 3rd Deneice Williams - singer/songwriter Curtis Mayfield (1942–1999) - singer/ songwriter 4th Al B. Sure! – singer/songwriter Keith David – actor/singer 5th Brian McKnight – singer/songwriter John Carlos – former track and field athlete

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Mike Tyson - Born - June 30, 1966.

6th Billy Boston MBE – retired rugby player Tommie Smith – former track and field athlete A’Lelia Walker (1885-1931) businesswoman Tupac Shakur (1971-1996) - rapper 7th Prince Nelson – musician Nikki Giovanni – writer/poet Randolph Turpin (1928–1966) - boxer 8th Kanye West – rapper/singer Keenen Ivory Wayans, Sr. – actor/ comedian Michael Abbensetts - writer John Archer (1863-1932) – politician

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9th D’banj – singer/songwriter Christine Simpson – Panache contributor Jackie Wilson Jr (1934–1984) – singer/ songwriter 10th John Sentamu – 97th Archbishop of York Maxi Priest – singer/songwriter Faith Evans – singer/songwriter Hattie McDaniel (1895-1952) - actress 11th Hazel Scott (1920–1981) – jazz/pianist 12th Mark Henry – weightlifter/professional wrestler Eamonn Walker - actor T. B. Joshua - minister

13th Len Garrison (1943 – 2003) educationalist and historian 14th Paul Boateng, Baron Boateng - politician John Wideman - professor 15th Ice Cube – rapper/actor Wilfred Wood – former Bishop of Croydon 16th Bill Cobbs - actor Eddie Levert – singer/songwriter Tupac Shakur (1971–1996) - rapper

25th Jimmie Walker – actor/comedian 26th Bernard A. Harris Jr – former NASA astronaut 27th Paul Dunbar (1872-1906) - poet Lucille Clifton (1936-2010) - writer 28th Tichina Arnold - actress

June 26 Bernard A. Harris Jr - Born - June 26, 1956.

17th Nathan Morris – singer/businessman 18th Big Joe Turner (1911–1985) – blues shouter 19th Phylicia Rashād – actress/singer Zoe Saldana - actress Bumper Robinson – voice actor 20th Lionel Richie – singer/songwriter Tika Sumpter - actress Lloyd Hall (1894-1971) - inventor 21st Brenda Holloway - singer Jessica White - model 22nd Charlene White – journalist/new presenter Porsha Williams – television personality Octavia E. Butler – science fiction writer Jerome Taylor - cricketer Paterson Joseph – actor Donald Faison - actor

June 8 Kanye West - Born - June 8, 1977 29th Stokely Carmichael (1941-1998) - activist 30th Femi Oke – television journalist Kemar Roach - cricketer Mike Tyson – former professional boxer Lena Horne (1917-2010) –singer/actress

June 23 Ramnaresh Sarwan - Born -June 23, 1980.

23rd Ramnaresh Sarwan - cricketer Randy Jackson – bassist/television personality Josephine Baker (1906-1975) - dancer Wilma Rudolph (1940-1994) – Olympic athlete 24th Chucky Venn - actor Levi Roots – chef/television personality

June 9 D’banj - Born - June 9, 1980

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Lock out your loss through Redundancy Transition: 5 Tips

By Jenni Williams

T

he negative effects of being made redundant are legion – money worries, the uncertain and de-stabilising psychological effect it places on the individual such as feelings of: rejection, failure, loss of identity and self-esteem, anger, hostility, and even depressive episodes; these are just a few of the more prominent emotions that can take hold at a time, when you experience a very real personal attack on your beliefs and values.

Redundancy can also be a blessing in disguise, your wake up call, or the excuse you need to move on from a job you perhaps knew deep down you have outgrown, but could not quite summon up the courage to quit. After the initial shock of being made redundant, it is often the case that you find yourself grappling with reality and trying to make sense of what has happened to you. Understandably the question arises – should I stay in this industry, or move on to something new?

So how do you lock out your loss, rise above your fears and use your redundancy transition as a catalyst for doing something new or perhaps fulfilling a long held ambition?

THINK OUTSIDE YOUR MENTAL BOX Being made redundant could provide you with a golden window of opportunity to reassess what’s important to you and what fits with your values.

1. Working out what really matters to you will help you to plan your next steps in a more logical way. Your beliefs – what you hold

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to be true, and your values – your core guiding principles, make up the core of who you are, enabling you to decide what you commit to in life. Although they are like guiding stars, they can shift depending on your changing circumstances. A lifechanging event like being made redundant is a perfect example of when you would question your beliefs and values. Prior to redundancy, making as much money as possible for example, may have been one of your key drivers, and with the change in your situation, you may now wish to explore ways in which you could use your skills to make a difference, above a large pay packet.

2. Managing your emotions plays a central role in ensuring that you steer a steady course through the financial challenges and the roadblocks you are likely to face along the way. A great first step in the fight to regain control of your emotions is firstly to simply acknowledge them. Become aware of your inner enemies. Then draw up a strategic battle plan to respond rather than react 3. Bear in mind that that it can take some time to seek out the information you will need in order to make your next move.

Your competencies which are the required skills, knowledge, qualifications, and the capacity you possess to do a job properly, and your capabilities – which centre on your ability to perform and achieve certain actions or outcomes through controlled and or measurable processes, are always a good starting place. In addition, write down your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, along with any secret dreams you have been harbouring of getting paid for doing something you love. You will

then begin to build up a holistic picture of which elements of your competencies and capabilities you could integrate with what you want to do next.

4. A resilient mind set is a key weapon on the road to recovery. It will help you to think positively. Resilience is a survival technique that enables you – in the case of being made redundant, to rise above feelings of failure, and loss of identity in order to carve out a new and exciting future for yourself.

5. Locking out your loss post redundancy, may involve reinvention through retraining for something similar to what you did previously, or perhaps planning a completely new career that may be more aligned to your core values. You may even decide that you have fallen out of love with your former world – the long hours’ culture, the high stress levels and now wish to use your skills and talents to captain your own ship by running your own business.

Be the Change You want to Be will show you how to positively handle the life-changing, emotionally challenging experience of redundancy as you transition to something completely new.

In this book you will learn the steps to take to: • Manage your emotions • Channel your focus in a positive direction • Create more clarity around what is important to you and what you want to do next • Uncover the keys to discovering the richness of your skills • Take ownership of your journey

You may be able to look back one day and appreciate that what seemed like a disaster on the face of it, was in fact a fortuitous turn of events that provided the catalyst for enabling you to regain control of your life.

What was the one thing that you did to help you lock out your loss, when you were made redundant?

http://www.jenniwilliams.co.uk/free-ebook-be-the-change-you-want-to-be/

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Caribbean Property

Living

HOUSE FOR SALE

SANTA CRUZ, ST. ELIZABETH, JAMAICA

By: Maureen Smith

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http://www.tropicalconnections.co.uk/property/santa-cruz-st-elizabethjamaica/#!prettyPhoto

This beautiful and well maintained family home is centrally located in a lovely community spirited neighbourhood on the south coast of Jamaica.

• Security grills and bars.

• Fully enclosed with wall and chain link fencing.

• Income generating potential.

Sitting on approximately 8,712 sq. ft. of landscaped grounds, the property offers approximately 2,694 sq. ft. of living space consisting of three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living rooms, dining room and kitchen. There is also a powder room, laundry room, linen closets, verandah, carport and a store room at basement level that is access from the rear of the property.

A truly well presented property that is ‘ready to move in’.

The property is further enhanced by ornamental shrubbery to the front and a number of mature fruit trees to the rear that include mango, coconut, paw paw, june plum, apple and orange.

Additional features include the following:

• • • •

Jacuzzi in master bedroom.

Master bedroom approx. 16’ x 14’.

Bedrooms 2 and 3 approx. 14’ x 12’.

Chandelier light fittings in living and dining rooms.

• Bay windows to the rear of the building that allow additional light and ventilation.

Ref No: JAM073 Property Type: House Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Price: JMD $20M 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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BODY EXERCISES

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By Patrick Lewis - YOUR FITNESS GURU

e hope last month’s health tips were helpful, so here are more health tips to help you with your exercise routine. We all want to be fit, lose weight and look good so let’s put these tips to action and look forward to being much healthier.

So Go forward and be healthy!

HEALTH:

If you thought that the only way to build strength was through lifting weights, then think again. Bodyweight training - using the weight of your own body to create resistance - was one of the earliest forms of strength training. It’s easy to learn, effective, and you can do it just about anywhere.

EXERCISE:

The standard press-up is nothing new, but it clearly demonstrates the principle of body weight resistance training and leads to impressive strength gains in the chest, shoulders and triceps when executed correctly.

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1. Lie face down on the floor with your feet together.

2. Place your hands on the floor at shoulder level, facing forward. Keep a slight curve to the hands and fingers, rather than positioning them flat on the hard surface.

3. Raise your body up on the hands and toes until elbows are nearly straight, and then lower to a point where the elbow is at a right angle. Don’t let your body touch the floor. Do as many as you can in one minute, rest, then try again.

NUTRITION: Carbohydrate is the predominant energy source during any strength training workout.

Stored as glycogen in the muscles, it is the fuel used to supply energy for short, intense bursts of power. Once these stores of glycogen are gone your energy level will drop and you will run out of fuel to power muscle contractions, so always ensure you have adequate sources of carbohydrates in your daily diet.

Living with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

th

Tuesday 30 June 2015 10.30am to 12.00pm

PDA is a lifelong Pervasive Developmental Disorder and is now considered part of the Autism Spectrum (ASD).

This presentation will be hosted by Julia Daunt who is an adult diagnosed with PDA, ADHD and Psychotic Episodes.

Julia is a Public Speaker, Advocate, Writer and Blogger who will be sharing her experiences of living with PDA and discuss in detail the traits of the condition along with a Q&A session at the end.

We welcome professionals and practitioners.

Tooting United Reformed Church

Rookstone Road London, SW17 9NQ

To book or for further info: M: +44 (0) 7964 173 958 W: www.a2ndvoice.com

ALL WELCOMED Cost:

£5.00 Standard £10.00 Professionals Light Refreshments Provided

ALL PROCEEDS GO TOWARDS FUNDING FUTURE WORKSHOPS www.panacheoccasions.com / MAY 2015 61

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Fashion

Flair

“MR SUPER CURL”,

HUGH SINGH-WILLIAMS.

A SNAPSHOT OF HIS LIFE

By Jacqui Brown

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n one of his whistle-stop visits from Barbados, I managed to grab a few moments at my favourite Turkish restaurant, with the very charming Hugh Singh-Williams. For those of you who are unaware; Hugh is an iconic 1980’s super model who’s image was featured on the first ever black billboard poster campaign for “Super Curl” and also on the first UK stamp representing black people at work.

First UK stamp representing the FIRST black person ever.

I take a sip from my hot chocolate drink, which is delightful as always. My taste buds now happy, I listen attentively as Hugh proudly expresses how blessed he is that his life has been so deeply entrenched in Caribbean family values. His father is Jamaican of Indian descent (India) and his mother is Barbadian with Trinidadian and Guyanese roots.

The first ever UK black billboard poster campaign for SUPER CURL which was UK, EUROPE, AFRICA and USA

He is a well-respected health and fitness guru in his home land of Barbados where he is also managing/artistic director of the Curvy Revolution Plus size and associate Model agency, which has been featured in this magazine on several occasions. Not sitting on his laurels, he has also, recently, produced his own men’s fashion line, “Singh Designs”, and is looking forward to developing it into a successful brand.

With the looks and energy of someone much younger than his 56yrs, Hugh firmly believes that the richness of life does not come from the material but from a true sense of being.

He maintains that there is still so much that he would like to accomplish, achieve and continue in his life in order that he may continue to grow and develop as a human being.

His favourite affirmation is: “NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW THEIR PURPOSE IN LIFE, FORTUNATELY, I DO AND MAKING SURE I AM IN A POSITION TO FOLLOW THROUGH WITH THAT PURPOSE” VISIT - https://www.facebook.com/HughAWilliams9?fref=ts

Model work included fashion shows (kenzo Benetton, Hennes, C & A, Pepe Jeans (also their in-house model), music videos, film extra (eg A Kiss Before Dying) Coca Cola commercial; magazines fashion (International Model, Roots, Black Beauty & Hair etc). Worked in UK, Europe, San Francisco, also Kenya & Uganda (with Hair and cosmetic company M&M).

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Father of two, Darren (37yrs old) and Imran, (31yrs old July) to whom I was a single parent from a baby: He returned to Barbados with me in 1985. Family very important to me.

Grandfather of 6 Beautiful children.

My sons, Darren (cap) & Imran (locks).

Imran Trinid

UK, London, Hackney Vitality Half Marathon (May2015) with son Darren, Other marathons including B Barbados (which oldest grandson, Deneshan also ran: (3 generations). Just recently competed in Ath (31st May) 64

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n and myself where we attend dad carnival

Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam hletic Association of Barbados

Present life in Barbados for the last 30years as business owner of ASWAN FITNESS INC in exercise rehabilitation; also manager of The Curvy Revolutions Plus Size and Associate Model agency (Active over 2years): Still will model in occasional fashion show. www.panacheoccasions.com

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Fashion “Singhs Designs”

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Photography by: - SEAN HAMMER

by Hugh Singh-Williams

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Karlton Chambers

Hotshots Model of the Month

Victor Momoh Mobile number- 07479760452 Email- vic.momoh@googlemail.com My measurements/details are: Height- 6’1” Weight 80Kg/12.5 stones Bust/Chest- 40” Waist- 32” Hips- 36.5” UK Shoe Size- 8 Hair Colour- black Eye Colour- brown Past Modelling Experiences Heat Magazine, Adidas, Lynx Commercial, Iceland Commercial, London School of Modelling, Model Advice. Etc. Interests/Hobbies I have a great interest in modern Films, Football, Music, Swimming, Athletics, Tennis and Gym. I have taken part in various competitions relating football. I currently play football at a semi-pro level, Swimming and Athletics. My hobbies and interest has taught me good time keeping, dedication to a task and commitment. http://www.hotshotsmultimedia.co.uk/

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Victor Momoh

Victor Momoh

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Victor Momoh

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Fashion Miss Caribbean UK queen Keeleigh Griffith rocks the runway at the Afro Hair & Beauty Live 2015 show on May 24th & 25th.

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AGELESS, BLACK AND BEAUTIFUL‌.AHBLIVE2015

This May’s Bank Holiday saw scores of beautiful women and men making their way to Afro Hair and Beauty LIVE, which had a successful 34th two day staging at the Business Design Centre in Islington.

The hair, beauty and lifestyle exhibition attracted over 10,000 individuals from London, the wider UK, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, the United States and the Caribbean over the bank holiday weekend, turning Islington into a Afro Beauty Hub. This year, visitors experienced a fun filled show including the hot hair debate from the live panel where guests could ask leading hair professionals burning questions. The infamous crowd favourite WAHL Battle of the Barbers and Fantasy Hair competition saw Clinton Ismael and Josh Hair and Beauty taking the crowns respectively. Not to mention the Afro

Chic

Fashion Show which saw a range of summer show stopping trends from over 10 top designers, all available for sale in the Afro Chic Fashion Boutique after the catwalk show.

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Visitors such as Jennifer Mensah from Different Kind of Woman was pleased at the wealth of information present at the show, especially when it came on to the topic of embracing naturally textured hair. “Over the years, the exhibition has evolved, offering a more holistic approach to the needs of black women” - The Voice Online.

At this year’s show, visitors were not only introduced to new products and services from leading companies, but also enjoyed seminars and health checks specifically developed for mind, health and wealth.

The Business Design Centre housed over 100 exhibitors from the hair, skin and services industry’s leading companies, giving visitors direct access to discounted show items as well as products not yet in stores along with a variety of hair and make-up application tutorials that catered specifically to every woman’s needs.

The event organisers were pleased to see so many women coming out and embracing their hair, embracing their skin and enjoying the wealth of information that was being provided for them which saw the show’s theme “Be unique Be you!” come to life.

AHBLIVE 2015 was definitely a positive vibe that many are already gearing up for in 2016.

AGELESS, BLACK AND BEAUTIFUL….AHBLIVE2015

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This May’s Bank Holiday of beautiful women MAY 2015 / saw scores www.panacheoccasions.com and men making their way to Afro Hair and Beauty LIVE,

Images on this page taken by: Mr Lekan Olujinmi CEO of The Klub International

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Pageants

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Beauty

Flair

KAIETEUR ENTERTAINMENTS

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ACHIEVE

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Achieve Celebrating Achievements PILY MIRAZI

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU!

By Jacqui Brown

L

ONDON: 4th June, and distinguished guests attended an event to present prestigious awards to the “100 OUTSTANDING AFRICANS MAKING A DIFFERENCE”. The African Achievers Awards® International Summit was held at the Houses of Parliament and Pily Mirazi was honoured to receive such an award.

African Achievers Awards® is a yearly event birthed to recognize individuals and organizations that have distinguished themselves in their contribution towards the growth and development of Africa. Their focus is to motivate all African leaders including the future leaders through recognizing the persons and organizations that have contributed remarkably to the development of Africa.

The African Achievers Awards® Ceremony is geared at recognising excellent individuals and organisations that has contributed immensely to the advancement of the developmental sector of the African continent.

African Achievers Awards® is produced, managed and maintained by the Institute of leadership and Management (a West African Leading Leadership Institute) and Achievers Media.

Photos by kind courtesy of: Joshy Daniels Jones. http://www.africanachieversawards.org/

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Achieve

Celebrating Achievements

This month we feature two YOUNG ACHIEVERS!

Each month we will feature two more young people who are excelling in a feature in this section to: info@panacheoccasions.com.

MABOU LOISEAU By the age of 7, Loiseau spoke French, Creole, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic and Russian.

She also plays the harp, clarinet, violin, drums, guitar and piano. http://rollingout.com/business/big-thinkers/10-black-child-geniuses-you-shouldknow/2/

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all avenues. Please send us stories of young achievers you think we should

JUSTUS WILLIAMS At the age of 12, Justus Williams became the youngest black chess master in history.

He has competed in elite chess matches in Brazil, Canada and Greece. https://haziqali.wordpress.com/2012/03/20/8-amazing-current-black-child-prodigiesyou-didnt-know/

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PLEASURE

Chevelin Pierre shares his latest mesmerising

illustrations

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Pleasure

“Koulè Tafia” or “Under meh rhum” (under the influence)

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Chevelin Pierre © Chevelin Illustration 2014 chevelin.illustration@gmail.com

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Competitions

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Pleasure

Horoscope

Horoscope for JUNE 2015

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e were beginning to despair of ever seeing even an inch of blue sky, but our patience and powers of endurance could well be rewarded in June when better astrological days will return rather late in the season, getting it off to a fanfare.

Not a cloud on the horizon and good vibes for everyone!

Something to give your morale a boost and finally enable you to breathe more easily, find solutions and surf the crest of the wave. In short, a forecast which has everything you could wish for, with a breath of fresh air to be savoured, enabling you to offload the stress that has built up and fill up on happiness. And why not … sensuality too!

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/#ixzz3YcrrbylW

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Pleasure

Jokes

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

The Answer

A chicken and an egg are lying in bed. The chicken takes out a cigarette and begins to smoke. The egg, pissed off, takes one look at the chicken, rolls over and pulls the blanket over him and says, “I guess we answered that question!”

Carrots

Question: How do you know that carrots are good for your eyesight?

Answer:

Have you ever seen a rabbit with glasses?

Think about it!

Riddle

Question: What do you call a Bear without an ear?

Answer:

A “B”.

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Fun, Games & Shopping

WE B S U D O K U

http://www.games.com/play/masque-publishing/ just-words/multi

http://www.websudoku.com/

Panache Fragrance Store

http://www.panacheo

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

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Carolina Herrera 212 Sexy EDP for Women (100 ml.)

Availability: In stock

MAY 2015 £39.94 / www.panacheoccasions.com

£48.06

Chanel Chance Ea EDT Spray (10 Availability: In

£91.74

http://www.games.com/play/oberon-media/ bubble-town

http://www.games.com/play/popcap/ bejeweled-2

http://www.games.com/play/exoot-sdnbhd/bouncing-balls

http://www.games.com/play/tingly-games-b-v/ bubble-charms

occasions.com/#!fragrance-store/c148c

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.

au Fraiche 00 ml) n stock

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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 www.panacheoccasions.com / MAY 2015

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WINNER Best PR & Marketing EBR Award 2014

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

WINNER Best Fashion Magazine Afro Model Award 2014

CONNECT WITH US: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001701487398 https://twitter.com/#!/PanacheOccasion http://www.linkedin.com/home https://plus.google.com/u/0/ http://www.pinterest.com/brown0131/panache-e-magazine/ info@panacheoccasions.com

Magazine designed by: Jacqui Brown - 07951308379

A big thank to for the help and support provided by those featured in this edition.

This publication is copyright and may not be produced in any way either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this magazine, the publishers will accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for any loss or damage, consequential or otherwise, suffered as a result of any material here published.

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