PANACHE E-MAGAZINE - Issue 8

PANACHE E-Magazine

ESTHER IN

TERVIEW S

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32

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E-Magazine ISSUES so far..........

ISSUE 1

ISSUE 2

Our very first issue which launched “A Jamaican Story” – a serialised story of a Jamaican boy’s journey from the hills of Trelawny to the golden streets of Brixton.

We celebrated March for Mother’s Day and International Women’s Month.H

ISSUE 3

ISSUE 4

We featured a real-life Family Tree success story.

Featured an Exclusive interview by “Brown Sugar” founder – Pauline CatlinReid.

ISSUE 5

ISSUE 6

We asked the question – Will Serena be Queen of Wimbledon again?

Featured an Exclusive interview with Paul (Barry Boom) Robinson and celebrated the Ledgend – Usain Bolt – the fastest man on Earth.

ISSUE 7 Ultrapre Entrepreneur to

neur

ESTHER INTERVIEWS CARINE WAYNE-CAMPBELL

ISSUE 7

Featured an Exclusive interview with Mike (Saracen) Lewis talks about his time as a Gladiator.

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

Welcome to our EIGHTH edition of:

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE

16-19

Exclusive - Oluwabunmi Mojekwu: “Proudly Nigerian”

Features

104-105 Pastures new are a gamble for Briton

52-57

Gèlè Tea using fashion to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s

60-61

60 Seconds interview with Rick Brennan of the classic group Change.

84-87

Janelle Fraser Crowned Queen of Miss T&T UK 2012

Panache E-magazine it’s new! It’s bright! It’s entertaining and it’s for you.

It is THE new life style E-magazine taking the nation by storm Thought provoking, real-life stories by real people. YOU. Business and Finance – by people running their own big and small businesses. How did they do it?

Health and diet recommendationsRead articles from ordinary people who have coped or not with health issues that could affect any of us.

Smart shopping advice. From the smartest shoppers around – Women! We will get the best place to get that special something for the best price.

SEND US YOUR STORIES NOW! to info@panacheoccasions.com We aim to make PANACHE E- magazine the must go to, must read source for real life stories, entertainment, health and financial advice on the internet.

PANACHE E- magazine.

“For You, By You”.

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The month of October celebrates BLACK HISTORY MONTH as well as Nigeria’s 52nd day of Independence.

PANACHE whereE-MAGAZINE have we been? is packed with features and adverts in honour of these celebrations.

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Rodney Hinds

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Mia Morris OBE

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8 e Issu

Mr. Lekan Olujinmi

Peter Branch Photography

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PANACHE OCCASIONS LIMITED Publishers of Panache E-Magazine T: 07951 308 379 / 07946 088 553 E: info@panacheoccasions.com W: www.panacheoccasions.com

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

“Our philosophy as an ethical magazine, is never to print anything in regards to the

BME population that can be seen as demeaning or negative, but to promote the positive contributions and achievements that members of the BME population have made and are making to positively impact and shape the society in which we live.”

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CELEBRATES

B

lack History Month has been celebrated in the UK since 1987.

Its aim is to reconise the contributions of African, Asian and Caribbean people to the economic, cultural and policitcal life in London and the UK.

Mia Morris OBE, founder of www.

black-history-month. co.uk, tells us the history behind BHM

Why was Black History Month established and what is its aim?

Black History Month’s purpose is nicely encapsulated in these words spoken by the former London Mayor Ken Livingstone; “In order to enrich the cultural diversity of the Greater London area, it is imperative that Londoners know more about African influences on medieval and renaissance European music so that accepted ideas about European music is changed. Despite the significant role that Africa and its Diaspora have played in the world civilization since the beginning of time, Africa’s contribution has been omitted or distorted in most history books.”

When was Black History Month set up in the UK and by whom?

Akyaaba Addai Sebbo is widely regarded as the person who set up Black History Month in the

UK. Addai worked with Ken Livingstone at the Greater London Council (GLC) as co-ordinator of Special Projects. The first event was held on 1st October 1987, when the GLC hosted Dr Maulana Karenga from the US to mark the contributions of Black people throughout history. Addai then drew up a plan to recognise the contributions of African, Asian and Caribbean people to the economic, cultural and political life in London and the UK. Since 1987 as part of African Jubilee Year, other boroughs began to formally institute this as Black History Month in the UK.

What form do events take and where are they held?

Initiatives take place across the UK with voluntary groups, local authorities, primary care trusts, museums and libraries often taking a lead in planning events. All projects use the skills and experiences of the local workforce and community in the planning and delivery.

Smaller groups do equally good work on limited budgets, e.g. running supplementary schools, which incorporate history, or incorporating the Black History Month theme into existing events. There is always a rich programme of events: storytelling, historical walks, theatrical productions, comedy and panel debates are a few examples, but all have history as an integral part of their purpose.

Some employers, especially local authorities, can earmark specific budgets that groups can apply for at the beginning of each financial year.

Other councils pick up and absorb publicity or venue hire costs in some cases.

If Black History Month derives from the US, why and when was it set up there?

Carter G Woodson initiated the Negro History Week in 1926, which then became Black History Month. He chose February because the birthdays of the two influential figures - Abraham Lincoln, US president and Frederick Douglas - who he believed to have impacted on the conditions of the “Negro” fell in February.

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

The late African-American writer, John Hernik Clarke wrote: ‘If we are to change tomorrow, we are going to have to look back with some courage, and warm our hands on the revolutionary fires of those who came before us.’ This quote was a catalyst for Addai’s plans at the GLC in 1987.

What are the dates for Black History Month and why October?

Black History Month runs throughout the month of October.

There has long been concern about the experience of black children in the UK, and this was a key factor in setting October as the Black History Month. It is at the beginning of a new academic year and can instil pride and identity into young black learners.

October is also a period of tolerance and reconciliation in African culture. Black history is therefore a reconnection with the African source, hence the Black History Month symbol of Sankofa – learning from the past – with the benefit of hindsight.

There are more events run outside of this period from August - November and are often referred to as Black Heritage Season

Who celebrates Black History Month?

Black History Month is open to participation by everyone and is ideally developed, delivered and managed as an educational and historical awareness experience by Black people – African, Asian and Caribbean heritage – and should be shared by everyone as world history.

Who runs Black History Month – is one official body behind it?

There is no one official body behind Black History Month. However, leading political figures still put on some of the biggest events and have set a standard while also providing support for other bodies to do the same.

Why do Black people need a history month?

In an ideal world, the month would not be necessary, because educational establishments and the national curriculum would fully recognise and appreciate the contribution of black people throughout history. Sadly that is not the case.

The Black community uses this history month as an opportunity to share with the world its vast contributions: a time to demonstrate pride in its creativity, respect for its intellectual prowess and a celebration of its cultural identity which is far too often misrepresented, when it is not being ignored, in the mainstream.

Why is there a Black History Month magazine, where can I get it?

There are three magazines in existence these are available free from libraries across the UK. See also http://www.black-history-month.co.uk . We also have our own version (Black History 365)which is linked to the website and published with Smaart Publications the award winning newspaper Black History 365 comes out twice a year.

Black History Month recognised by the government?

Black History Month is recognised by the government and many MPs get involved in hosting and chairing events and speaking at launches. There’s always value in asking your local politicians to support your initiatives.

How has BHM grown?

BHM events at time of writing August 2011 has grown to nearly 4,700 events across the UK http://www.black-history-month.co.uk/sitea/index. html

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INSPIRATIONAL BHM BOOKS www.black-history-month.co.uk

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‘Scorchingly reinvigorated’

inDepenDenT on sunDay

HHHHH sunDay TiMes

H HHH Daily Telegraph

guarDian Daily Mail Daily express evening sTanDarD TiMes

Photo by kwame lestrade

the lowry salford quays until 6 october www.thelowry.com/drama norwich theatre royal 16 – 20 october www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk new theatre cardiff 23 – 27 october www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

s r e d n E t s a E s s e c n i r P n a i r e Nig

Oluwabunmi Mojekwu: “Proudly Nigerian”

T

By Juliana Lucas

he other day, I heard the sound of D’Banj’s Oliver Twist on the popular BBC soap, Eastenders and immediately my heart went out to my Nigerian sister, Oluwabunmi Mojekwu.

I believe, Mojekwu, known for her role as Mercy Olubunmi in the British soap, had pioneered this musical move by the BBC directors.

As we all knew, Mojekwu and her on screen family where the first Africans on the popular show since it started in 1985.

During my interview with the 23-year-old, she revealed how she influenced the show’s producers with her love of the Afrobeats genre and one of its biggest star’s, Dapo Oyebanji also known as D’Banj.

“I used to play lots of Afrobeat songs whilst Steve Shepherd (her Eastenders co-star) played his classical music. Everyone used to ask me what song is this. They liked it” “It was not surprising when I heard a second airplay of Oliver Twist on the same show.

Its Afrobeat season now and they are all listening to it. I am glad I made a mark there” Mojekwu, who was born in Brixton, South London, said “I am proudly Nigerian.”

The acute descendant who loves nothing more than eating “ayamashe (spicy stew) and white rice”, started acting during secondary school. She would often entertain other family members by impersonating her uncles and aunties.

When her family moved to Kent in 2006, the Media and Business studies graduate hated her new environment and missed her friends. However, in order to keep herself entertained, she joined Identity Drama School, where she excelled and became a member of the prestigious agency within a month.

Having made her acting debut in 2008, Mojekwu then went on to star as Ronnie in Channel 4’s critically acclaimed Fallout and in 2009, she landed the part of Mercy Olubunmi in the Internet teen drama E20, a spin-off of EastEnders, which was broadcast in January 2010 E20 producer, Diederick Santer said in a previous interview: “When I saw the completed episodes of E20 I knew I wanted Mercy in the big show too. Mercy has also been a huge hit with E20, viewers. She’s funny, warm, sensitive and rather mysterious.

“I’m delighted Bunmi will be bringing those qualities to the wider EastEnders audience”.

He added: “She is of Nigerian descent; she is young, talented, hardworking, and a credit to Nigeria.”

Mojekwu, who never shies away from the opportunity to shine, regards her parent’s country as the biggest influencer in her life.

She said: “Nigeria means a lot to me because it is how I grew up. My mum and dad are Nigerian. People who know me best would always say that I am very Nigerian. Everything that defines Nigeria is me,” she said.

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

ere is a h t e m every ti w o n k lets me a y playe m o d b n t a a r F g r y en love here. M e t r c t s u o n o e nd her mily ar a a f p y a o m s e “All e n to th s, r u t to com e e r d m d l r r u a o o w aiting f if she w lf going back w d s i e k e s n A o ni (M e myse . Every m e e s u r b y e l u l h l t a re ck hO er, Fait o go ba t t s i t s n n a w ee ld not y onscr il. u o m w h t I i so ma hw in touc like Jaja by e Many l l . ti s s s e m c e a c l u r peop ded: “I eside s t a t s t She ad uple of othe a a stab co g n i v a with a dh . n’t min here. d l d forth u n o a w k o c e s a ys sh o do here b m a She sa fter failing t I . s le sa os Ang L d succes n a re d een he w t llywoo e o b H d o e t r as answe s “I am b ’ a i r e g Ni wood, said y l l o N r love fo n w o n er k s.

With h rld. he say s o , ” w b r e o j in th is a go the e r o e t h e t v e lo y wher would lled 4 Wome n I a . t o g o l ld a roved “I wou ng is ca problems. p ti i r m i w e av n am ovies h the scripts I have our ow m d o o ll of at we a “Nollyw ment. One h t s w ho mo at the just kind of s It don’t.

nued. ti n o c e ’t re,” sh t I don e u h b t t w u o o of me ever kn n w e u i o v r y “ d an inte wu sai k e j o ,M rwood o N y k else” c i e R n y o b e m ed find so o t e v a touch h l n l i i w m a I to ll have omas). i h w T y n o e l El . Fat b unmi ( b u l e back O ce at nd Gra a ) e ve gre y e i e h y c e a d o eA gone t e Modup v a h a dris Elb I s a h uc e e her s lm,” sh r fi o f g e n b i o acts . I am d g n i British k r wo e year h t f o ustry ginning d e n b i e e i h v o nt er 2’ m there i b s m a u w n I ‘ . for the y d a e r ls ow fee n s s e r t med ac e e t s e d, the writing m a I . m here er but they o r f d e e gain ow each oth v a h I n ce perien o all kind of k x e e h h ft a lot o nt women w n i g n i re br re and out four diffe ab en. It ’s .”

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THE MAHOGANY BRIDAL SHOW 2012

T

he Mahogany Bridal Show, Europe’s longest established show for African Caribbean brides, grooms and family members will be taking place on Sunday 21st October at the City of Westminster College in the West End in London.

The show is now in its 15th year and continues to grow from strength to strength. The exhibition attracts hundreds of guests from across Europe who attended to view displays from exhibitors that include everything a bride requires for that all important day; from decorative features such as chocolate fountains and champagne fountains to photography, cake decorators, wedding planners and menswear to name but a few.

featuring an array of designers who showcase everything from traditional, alternative and African inspired wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses as well as menswear.

The October show will be the biggest show we have done for a while as companies feel more confident about their businesses, they have asked us to do a much bigger show and in October we will have over 50 exhibitors participating.

Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.mahoganybrides. com/ or by calling 0845 388 7249 / 07971 388687. Tickets are £10 (buy one get one free if purchased in advanced) or £10 per

It is exciting times for the Mahogany Bridal Show as we move to a brand new contemporary venue. The City of Westminster College will be hosting the bridal show and exhibition at their brand new building at the Paddington campus. We believe that both the visitors and the exhibitors would be thrilled by the beautiful space that we have for the exhibition.

Asides from the exhibition Mahogany knows it is important for a bride and groom to feel special on their wedding day and this includes the all important task of picking the correct attire to suit them.

This is where the fashion show comes in.

There are two fantastic fashion shows

This is not the type of bridal show where you come, to see lots of traditional white wedding and bridesmaids dresses but if you are looking for something different, bright, colourful and original than the Mahogany Bridal Fashion Show is the place to come too as it brings you some of the best alternative bridal designers that the UK, Europe, the Caribbean and Africa has to offer.

Mahogany will endeavor to cater to all the things a bride and groom requires for their wedding day, all under one roof.

person at the door. Children under 16 are free.

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE now have 7 PAIRS of TICKETS to GIVE AWAY

for the Mahogany Bridal Show on Sunday 21st October 2012.

Just email your name and contact number. with the word MAHOGANY in the subject line to: info@panacheoccasions.com

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www.mahogan

nybrides.com

S E BER

The King

s r e v o L e a g g e R f o

Photo Beres Hammond black and white by Floyd Celluloyd for Innermann - http://www.innermann.de

Beres Hammond - "THE KING of Lovers Rock Reggae" is back by popular demand to perform at the Greatest Reggea Show on Earth part 2. In our issue 2, Clayton Brown gave us his personal perspective on his Idol. If you missed it the last time, here it is again: -

W

hen people listen to musical bands or records, some focus more on the music or tune and some focus on the lyrics and vocals. I have always been in the “lyrics” camp. That I believe is why Beres Hammond captured my imagination.

In my teens Gregory Isaac was the singer who spoke to my romantic poetic side, but when I heard and saw Beres sing I felt that we were somehow in tune with each other. How does he know the exact situation I was/am in and produce the lyrics that so eloquently express my feelings?

When I first started going to clubs I used to think I was a bit of a “ladies man”! My friends and I would have competitions to see who could get the most dances. After a while we got tired of this and decided to take it to a higher level. What we would do now is to test your dancing skills by seeing who could get the girl you were dancing with to stay with you after the record was finished and into the next tune.

“After one dance on the floor, she came back, wanting for more, for more and I don’t know what it is that I’ve got, but she whispered it was so nice, so nice....”

When Beres came out with “what one dance can do” in 1985, I took it as my anthem. Interestingly, this was also the song that exploded Beres Hammond on the international stage.

I have pretty much heard every song that he has sang since that time and before. However three of them have had a profound effect on me and helped me in one way or another through my life. The first one is my anthem that I have mentioned above.

“Putting up a resistance,” is the second. This song came at a time in my life when things were particularly rough for me. I had broken up with my teenage sweetheart and lost my flat, my Father had died and I was in the middle of my university course. So when I heard this song which was much rougher and more militant than his usual lovers/romance offerings. I was like, wow, this man really knows what I’m going through.

“Pressure, pressure, Pressure No I never can understand it The way the system plan There’s no hope, no chance No loophole, no escape for a suffering man Cause every time I lift my head above water And try to save myself from drown There’s an overnight scheme all worked out Designed to keep ah me down Still I’m (putting up a resistance) I’m ah gonna work it out You know I’m (putting up a resistance) I’ve got to work it out.

The third and most poignant song for me and one which many men can relate to is “Over you”. I was in a particularly toxic relationship at the time and when I heard that tune every single word of the song seemed to have been written for this woman. I played it to her and she sang it with me. Oh boy!

I’m over you, Yeah, Let’s call it a day Got news for you, I’m glad we’re through Hip Hip Hooray All you want is a fun life maybe I don’t have enough for you, No I Gotta find me a someone who’d appreciate the things I wanna do, Whoo Girl you’re too overbearing, every minute of the day you’re swearing, Aye I could feel it coming; knew it could not be everlasting

E-Magazine

COMPETITION

D N O M M A H S E R es E

B

un t e t i r ou v a f r ou

Click on the images to open YouTube

What one dance can do

BERES HAMMOND IS BACK. And Panache E-Magazine have 2 (two) pairs of tickets to give away for the Beres Hammond concert at WEMBLEY ARENA on Sunday 14th October 2012

Putting up a resistance

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to this event, just answer the following question correctly: Which artist toured with Beres Hammond in 2011 ?

A BeyoncĂŠ Knowles B Wretch 32 C Taurus Riley To enter, call 07951308379 or email - A, B or C to info@panacheoccasions.com

Over You

A salute to Nigeria CELEBRATING

52

YEARS 1ST OCTOBER 1960 - 2012

S

he is famous for her Green, White & Green of her flag, her famous sons and daughters and being one of the giants of Africa with a booming economy that includes a mobile industry with 30 million subscribers and growing.

On October 1, Nigeria, affectionately called Naija, had one more reason to celebrate. She marked her 52nd year of independence from British rule.

To salute her monumental birthday as a nation, we have put together some facts about this great West African Nation.

By Mr. Lekan Olujinmi Of The Klub International Management Company ‘Keeping Entertainment Simple, & At It’s Best’

1) Nigeria’s history stretches far back, prior to the slave trade and British Colonialism in the 19th century. For example, between the 11th century European colonial conquest in the late 19th century, the area in and around Nigeria was home to a number of sophisticated and influential societies.

2) Some of these important societies were the North Eastern Kingdom of Borno, the Hausa City/State or Kingdoms of Katsina, Kano, Zaria, & Gobir in Northern-Central Nigeria, the Yoruba City/States or Kingdoms of Ife, Oyo, & Ijebu in South-Western Nigeria, the Southern Kingdom of Benin, plus the Igbo communities of Eastern Nigeria.

3) Olaudah Equiano was born in approximately 1745 in what is now known as Nigeria. He wrote an autobiography about his life, in which he recounts being kidnapped from West Africa as a child and sold into slavery. He bought his freedom and became part of the abolition movement.

Olaudah Equiano’s account is considered an originator of the slave narrative.

4) Extensive trading networks developed among these societies and Northwards across the Sahara.

5) Nigeria came under British colonial rule during the second half of the 19th century and the first decade of the 20th century.

6) It finally became independent from Britain on October 1, 1960.

7) The modern Federal Republic of Nigeria covers an area of 923,768 sq.km on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea.

8) It has the Republic of Benin on its Western side, Republic of Niger on the North, Democratic Republic of Chad to the North-East & the Democratic Republic of Cameroon to the East and South-East.

9) It currently has a population of more than 160 million majestic people, making it Africa’s most populous nation, as well as the most populous black nation in the world.

10) There are well over 250 ethnic groups, with groups including the Kanuri, Tiv, Edo, Nupe, Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Ibo, Ibibio and Ijaw accounting for almost 80% of the total population.

11) Most of the largest population live in Nigeria’s South and around Kano in the North.

12) Nigeria’s first ever President was HE. Dr. Benjamin Nnamdi Azikiwe, who took office in 1963 when Nigeria adopted a revised constitution and became a Republic.

13) Its first election since independence to the Federal House of Representatives took place in December 1964.

14) Nigeria has had a history of Political & Military coups & Civilian and Political uprisings and wars including the well known Biafran Civil War, which erupted in 1967 when the Military Governor of the Eastern Region, Lt. Col. Chukwuemeka OdumegwuOjukwu announced the succession of the Eastern Region and proclaimed its independence as the ‘Republic of Biafra’ on May 30, 1967.

15) During the ensuing Civil War, Military casualties reached an estimated 1,000,000.

Biafran Civilians died mainly from starvation as a result of the Federal blockade.

16) The Federal Republic of Nigeria has had a relatively stable Government for the last 12 years.

17) The country’s current President is HE. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who was elected after former President Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua died from an illness back in 2010.

18) The Federal Republic of Nigeria is also home to some of the most haunting examples of human rights violations, repression and bloodshed, among them the execution of environmental activist Mr Ken Saro-Wiwa and his colleagues back in November 1995.

19) Ken Saro-Wiwa was tried by a Special Military Tribunal in what many believe was a Politically Motivated Trial by the then Military Government/Leaders. He was hanged in 1995 by Nigeria’s Military Government after speaking out against the likes of Shell Oil’s pollution of his people’s historical land by Multi-National Oil Companies bent on extracting what is the best Crude Oil in the world today. He also criticised Nigeria’s then Military Government for not wanting to enforce Environmental Laws. His death caused a large international outcry, a slew of lawsuits and a global campaign to have Oil Companies fund a clean-up of the Ogoni Land & the Water, in Delta State.

20) However, since 1999, the country has implemented a series of reforms to promote democracy and good Governance.

Fundamental Economic & Political reforms were introduced, resulting in Macro-Economic stability, and the rapid development of the Telecommunications sector, especially in the area of Mobile Phones.

21) The Federal Republic of Nigeria continues to play a key leading role in Africa, and more especially, West African affairs, being a prominent member of such bodies as the Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS as well as the African Union (AU).

22) The Nigerian Government has also helped other countries in need. For example, it spearheaded the African Military intervention that restored the Republic of Sierra Leone to civilian rule back in March 1998.

23) Until 1993, relations were strained with Britain, its former colonial master, and other European countries.

24) The Federal Republic of Nigeria has built very good working relations with its ECOWAS partners as well other African countries.

25) The Federal Republic of Nigeria is also committed to growth, aiming to become one of the world top 20 economies by the year 2020. President Jonathan said on September 28, 2012 that he “expects to see growth by 2015” and plans to “vigorously pursue foreign investments to reflate the economy”, from the Nigerian Guardian Newspaper.

26) The Federal Republic of Nigeria’s key industries are Oil, Gas and Telecommunication Technology, however other sectors are growing i.e. Fashion, Farming, Service Sector, Sports & the Entertainment Industry.

27) The Federal Republic of Nigeria’s national flag was designed by a student Mr. Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, who was chosen back in 1959, during a competition from almost 3,000 entries.

28) The Top 5 most popular musicians in Nigeria currently are; 1.

King Sunny Ade - Juju Music

2.

Femi & Seun Anikulapo-Kuti Real Afro Beat

3.

M.I – P Square - Afro Hip Hop

4.

Dbanji - Afro Hip Hop

5.

Wizkid – Tuface - Afro Hip Hop

Model: Paula Souza Designer: Aleah Leighdesigner PHOTOGRAPHY:

Peter Branch

Freelance Photographer Phone: +447580211126 email: peter@peterbphotos.com http://www.peterbphotos.com http://www.facebook.com/peterbphotos http://www.twitter.com/ptrbee

A

n exciting first of its kind cookbook authored to create an adventure for Nigerian cuisine. For those already familiar with them, this book redefines the preparation and presentation of Nigerian food.

Those on a journey of discovery will encounter a whole new range of spices, flavours and textures from one of West Africa´s finest and authentic cuisines.

Contemporary Nigerian Cuisine features some of the most popular dishes from Nigeria, prepared using modern techniques and beautifully presented in a manner which rivals other dishes from around the world.

Contemporary Nigerian Cuisine describes the organic nature of ingredients used in preparing the dishes, and their health and nutritional benefits.

The methods of preparation are easy and promise to help cooks to discover how exciting Nigerian cuisine can be.

Starter - mini beef suya

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2nd Annual Awards 2012

he 2nd Nigerian Entertainment & Lifestyle Awards, referred to as the ‘NEL Awards’ took place on 22 September 2012 at the prestigious NH Harrington Hotel, Kensington, London SW7 4JW. It is the only event of its kind in the UK to exclusively recognise the achievements of Nigerians in the Entertainment and Lifestyle sectors.

The Founders of the NEL Awards are Sam Onigbanjo and Seye Aina.

The NEL Awards is an opportunity to identify, nominate and reward excellence in the Nigerian entertainment and lifestyle sectors. A large number of Nominations were received for the 2012 NEL Awards.

From this huge response, the Judges selected 33 NEL finalists. These finalists represent some of the best talent in the Nigerian Entertainment and Lifestyle Industry.

The Founders also had the support of the Nigerian High Commission.

On 12 September 2012, the Founders Sam Onigbanjo and Seye Aina together with the NEL Finalists visited the Nigerian High Commission in London. They were received by the Deputy High Commissioner, HE Ambassador Oluwatoyin Lawal who personally congratulated all the NEL finalists for their great achievements.

The 2012 NEL Award Winners are:

BEST MAKE UP ARTIST: CLARE ELUKA: She has been a Make Up Artist for 10yrs, starting in 2002. After working for Big names like Bobby Brown and Selfridges, she created S.M.A.D in 2006 and now works as a Pro- freelance coaching Juniors and providing Spikes Maser classes for artists, actors and actresses. She also created the World’s first 100% Allergy free certified Beauty brand, Premae skin care in December 2011.

BEST MEDIA PERSONALITY: RHODA WILSON: In 2005, the first production of The Rhoda Wilson Show was broadcast on OBE TV and is still aired on BEN TV. She also does a lot of work in the with SME’s and run’s women’s Charity ACWAL. This year President Jacob Zuma invited Rhoda as a guest of the African Union to attend the “Global African Diaspora Summit” in South Africa, one of only 2 members of the British-African Diaspora to receive this invitation.

BEST FASHION DESIGNER: LYZE BAMIGBOLA-SILAS is the exclusive Milliner behind ‘Lyze Hats’. She creates bespoke headwear through personal consultations with her clients. Her first ‘perfect hats collection’ were sold by Peter Jones of Sloane Square for Ascot and she has not looked back since. Her creations have featured on Catwalks, Publications and Television shows.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR BEST NEWCOMER IN CREATIVE ARTS: DAMILOLA OSHILAJA is an emerging multidisciplinary artist and Fine Arts graduate from Saint Martins College of Art and Design.

Damilola set up Grunge Studios in 1998 and has a keen interest in Graffiti and Visual Language using coded symbols with layers of mystery.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR BEST BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST: YEMISI MAY ODEGBAMI, aka May7ven is a songwriter who debuted in 2008. Her most recent hit the Afrobeat song ‘Ten Ten’ has been a huge success and is played regularly on leading Television and commercial radio stations, Including Choice FM were it is “A listed” for Play. She has been recognised by Top UK Newspapers Including the Guardian and the Evening Standard.

BEST BUSINESS SMADE ENTERTAINMENT set up by Junior Adeosun in October 2007 has hosted events in the UK for Wande Coal, Basketmouth, MI, Choc Boys and Wizkid. Smade Entertainment are also Co-Owners of the Afrobeat Festival, the largest of its kind in the UK, responsible for bringing Artists such as P-Square, Wizkid, Ice-prince to the UK. BEST PLAYWRIGHT ADE SOLANKE is a playwright and scriptwriter.

Her company, Spora Stories, tells the dynamic stories of the African diaspora. Her recent plays include ‘Unzipped’ and ‘Tiata Delights’.

Her debut play, Pandora’s Box, had its world premiere at London’s Arcola Theatre in 2012

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO FASHION YEMI OSUNKOYA of Kosibah is a leading International Designer who specialises in contemporary and elegant couture bridal, evening and formal day wear. Kosibah recently celebrated its 21st Anniversary.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR BEST AMBASSADOR AWARD LEXY MOJO EYES is the CEO of Legendary Gold. He produced the first major fashion show in Nigeria and continues to organise several International Fashion Shows promoting Nigerian fabrics and designs to the world. He has addressed the United Nations on Global issues concerning Fashion and has served on the Committee of the World Fashion Organisation.

BEST STUDENT VICTORIA CHI CHI OKAFOR is the reigning Miss Nigeria UK. She is a final year student at Kingston University studying nursing. She combines studying with modelling at fashion shows and is the face of Phone4U, and the only Student presenter on Vox Africa.

INTERNATIONAL AWARD: Special recognition for services to Entertainment JOSEPH AKINYEMI JOHNSON AKA ‘JAJ’ started his broadcasting career in 1979 with Nigeria’s first FM Station, the then NBC2 AM/FM STEREO in Lagos Nigeria. He gained recognition almost immediately with his breezy, savvy and unique style of presentation. By 1983 JAJ had become a household name, celebrity status and was named Radio Personality of the year.

JAJ has also excelled as an On-air personality, News anchor, copywriter, Broadcasting and Media consultant and is the General Manager, Creative Development at Silverbird.

ELECTRONIC MEDIA JIDE ALABI is the Manager Radio programmes Rhythm 93.7 FM and Manager Sports Presenter/Editor on both Rhythm 93.7 FM (radio) and SilverBird Television, Programme designing and production, voice over and news casting. A Renowned Nigerian Actor, Broadcaster, Sport Journalist, he has acted in numerous Nigerian Movies and Soaps BEST ACTORS WALE OJO began is a child prodigy star starting his acting career in Nigeria. His recent credits include the TV series Meet the Adebanjos and appearances in The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency. His film credits include The Philantropist, Cloud-catcher, the Guard (with Brendan Gleeson and Don Cheadle) Johnny English Re-born (with Rowan Atkinson), Rage and Phone Swap.

He is the pioneer and founder of the New Nigeria Cinema.

JIMMY AKINBOLA is a graduate from ALRA drama school and has worked in TV, Film, Radio and at some of the UK’s most established Theatres acting alongside Sir Ian McKellen, Leslie Phillips, Roger Lloyd Pack, Aml Ameen, Riz Ahmed and Fraser Ayres.

Recent roles include Mick in the BBC series REV and he currently plays the role of the Registrar Antoine Malick in the BBC Medical drama Holby City.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO MEDIA & BROADCASTING CHIEF MRS JULIE COKER is one of the first Broadcasters on Nigerian Television and was also very popular on Nigerian Radio. She is the Former Miss Western Nigeria (1958), an

award winning actress, a singer, bestselling author and one of the first ever women to be made a Chief in Nigeria.

The event was hosted by Tola ’Wise Tola’ Onigbanjo and Bidemi Alaran. Presentations at the event were made by His Excellency Ambassador Lawal, Her Excellency Mrs Fayomi, from France, Top Designer and NEL 2011 Winner Adebayo Jones. Guests were treated to top-class entertainment

by Singers, Moe Logo, DL and Saeon. There was a fantastic Children’s Fashion Show by of collections by Amanda Rabor’s Isossy Children and Mrs Femi Olayebi showcased a collection of designer bags, “Femi Handbags”.

A raffle draw was held on the night. Monies received will benefit the Down’s Syndrome Foundation Nigeria & the Children’s Development Centre, supporting disabled children in Nigeria. Present at the NEL Awards were Penny Green (aka Anwuli) and Chuks Etuka representing the Down’s Syndrome Foundation Nigeria.

The following kindly donated gifts for the NEL Awards raffle draw: Arik Air donated 2 flight tickets, Radiant Glow their cosmetics products, Organic Root a gift hamper and the Director Christian Ashiaku donated a pair of tickets to the Premiere of his new film Amina.

To help raise awareness of the DSF Nigeria guests also took photographs with Penny Green who came with her Olympic Torch.

Penny who was selected as an Olympic Torch bearer intends to bring the Torch to Nigeria on her visit to Nigeria next month in a bid to raise further awareness of Down’s Syndrome.

Sponsors were: - Arik Air, Simon Bethel Solicitors, Africa Movie Channel, United Links Freight Co, GIZ, Promotion Motion Media, Paceworking, Consulting4London, Hart Culture, Asiko foods and Kenteba Creations.

Media Partners were Marcomms365, I-circulate ,Diva Scribe, Nigeria Magazine, Nigerian Watch, Come to Nigeria, The Flyer, The Voice, Ok Magazine Nigeria, Panache E-Magazine and Bubbles FM A Huge Thank you to His Excellency Ambassador Oluwatoyin Lawal, the Nigerian Deputy High Commissioner to St James Court. Mr Richard Taylor OBE, The Sodje Brothers, Mrs Fayomi, Wife of The Nigerian Ambassador to France, The Staff of NH Harrington Hotel, South Kensington (Our Venue), we found them so accommodating and helpful.

Our Impeccable team were: - Comperes Tola Onigbanjo, AKA “WiseTola” and Bidemi Alaran, Event Manager Sola Ajilore. Caterers Modinsat Catering Dupe Babajide, Interior Décor - TdlightTayo Dagazau, stage set up Charles Holder and Sean Hazlewood, Bukola Atunrase, Geisha Osei, Kayode Ariran and Ophelia Holland All in all it was a very exciting event with lots of celebrities, friends and family in attendance. We look forward to NEL Awards 2013.

www.nelawards.com email info@nelawards.com

ESTHER AUSTIN

Intuitive Healer, Intuitive Reader, Soul Guide, Broadcaster, Speaker Empowering you from the Inside Out

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ESTHER INTERVIEWS

ENRICO THOMAS

DOWN BUT NOT OUT: FROM ABUSE TO THE SUCCESS OF THE SUBWAY

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nce in a while a story hits our newsstands reaffirming to us the tenacity and strength of the human soul. Stories which serve to remind us of the huge potential, we as human beings have to conquer and rise above what is often insurmountable challenges.

As spiritual beings living a physical experience, these challenges serve and test our spiritual growth.

How we deal with life’s challenges often mould us into who we become. Dr Wayne Dyer once said something along the lines of “When we change the way we look at things, things around us change.”

Enrico Thomas, one of New York’s best emerging artists, is one such incredible human being who has triumphed. Art literally saved his life. His biological father was very abusive and when Enrico was only three years old he scalded him with boiling water disfiguring his face and leaving him in a coma. At the age of eight as an escape, Enrico began drawing. He then ran away from home as a teenager to live in a shelter. He later earned a scholarship to the Pratt Institute. Enrico fought his way back from an existence which almost destroyed him and is now successfully known as “The Subway Artist of New York”. Enrico uses the actual New York City Subway map as his drawing paper, resulting in a most interesting collaboration of his signature architectural style with the abstract quality of the subway map.

Enrico you have an incredible story to share with the world. What has made you the person you are today?

There is an African proverb: “It takes a village to raise a child.” So many people have helped me along my journey and have shown me love. The love and patience of all these people, such as mentors, counsellors, friends, etc broke through the darkness of my early life and helped me to love and accept myself just the way I am.

What is art to you, what does it do to your soul and where does your inspiration come from?

Art is a force that comes from a higher source.

It uses our bodies and minds to channel the beauty that is all around, below, and above us. Art takes me away from the gravity of the world and allows me to soar above earthly problems. It helps me forget my problems.

I think we are all good at something and if we open ourselves up to receive the gifts that the universe gives to us so freely and unconditionally, there is nothing that can limit us. Beauty is all around us and it is this omnipotent beauty that inspires me to create the beautiful subway and architectural drawings that I am known for. If we open our eyes we can see much more than we think we can.

Who do you become when you are absorbed in your work and how does your work make you feel?

When I do my work I become an artist first and foremost. I lose the identity of being a survivor of horrendous child battery and this is why doing my work is so important to me. I create a new identity as a proud artist.

When I finish my drawings and paintings I

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feel so proud of myself and my spirit is elevated in an indescribable way. I guess I feel like Gene Kelly when he’s dancing and singing in the rain.

You have triumphed over many adversities. What kept you going when the going got tough and the tough got going?

What has kept me going through all the adversities and challenges in my life is a fundamental instinct within to stay alive. To choose life over death. I have definitely felt the ‘breath of death’ on my face especially when I was in a coma at age three. I think that is why I choose the hardest materials to work with (sharpies and extremely fragile subway maps) and have worked in the most terrible conditions (windy and unsanitary subway platforms and thirty degree weather). There is something about being on the brink of death that motivates the human soul to do things it never imagined possible.

Working on the underground you must meet the most amazing and eclectic group of people, how has this underground network influenced your life and work?

One of the most fundamental lessons everyone is trying to learn on this earth plane is that we are all connected. It is so easy to believe otherwise but when I draw and paint, I meet so many interesting people through my work. People from different countries of all nationalities as well as local people.

They encourage me and tell me that my drawings are good which gives me encouragement. I’ve always said and will continue to say that my favourite audience are the little children. It makes me so happy to know that I have inspired them when they ask me questions about art. I tell them that it won’t always be easy to be an artist but when you keep going even when you are tired and keep drawing anyway, it is these moments that will make the most difference in your life.

You have had a lot of media coverage. How do you stop yourself tripping into some sort of egotistical space with all the attention?

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It is always tempting to lose your humility from media attention, but I always put my work first.

Everything else is secondary.

From what you experienced in your early childhood, to where you are now, what is life really about for you? What is the essence of your existence here on Earth and your plan for the future?

Life is about challenges and overcoming obstacles. It is when we are challenged whether through the completion of a difficult drawing, or through making it to tenth round in a boxing match, that true happiness and spiritual growth is achieved. I am here to create and to show people that creating is a powerful healing force. I hope to someday start and direct an art foundation for other battered children so that they can create a new identity for themselves through the practice of making art.

One a last note, do you have a favourite quote?

One of my favorite quotes comes from eastern culture: “Go to the darkness”. Many people fear the darkness, but the tricky part is that that is where all the light is. We learn so much about ourselves when we go through “impossible” situations. We find strength and faith in ourselves that we never thought was there.

You can usually find Enrico in Union Square train station or at the 72nd St. Columbus Circle train station.

To find out more about his work visit: http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes. com/2010/04/21/artist-uses-the-subway-assubject-and-canvas/ http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/good_day_ ny/100126-subway-map-artist-enrico-miguelthomas

Dear All Hello and welcome. Well without much ado, here are a list of some great events coming up over the next month or so.

Lots to tell but not enough time to put it all down on paper, so why not listen to my show every Wednesday on www.venturefmradio. com (new website will be up shortly).

But I would like to leave you with this poem, because as you know - what’s love got to do with life? Simply everything.

And here I stand tall, strong epitomizing the roots of the divine feminine A creature birthed from within the womb of the earth Exquisitely created Delicately sculptured Clothed with the petals and essence of love So come, cuddle my curves within the caress of your hands undress me with eyes which sees the depth of me right down to my very soul For I am not an illusion, my reality touches my soul And I want you to see and touch my heart Because I want you to experience the very bare essence of WHO I TRULY AM Esther Austin September 2012 All Rights Reserved

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oo much reality stuff going on in the world today so much so, we no longer know who we are. We are attracted to the external, to the material, but when you understand that when you tunnel down into the real depth of someone, and experience their essence, that is when the journey with love truly begins.

Also, my leg has healed rather nicely thank you. Thank you for all your well wishes, but funny I didn’t see it as poor me or anything.

I viewed the injury from a place of - what is this telling me and I will share my experiences about this at some point. Everything tells us something about ourselves and what we need to be mindful of. On that note ...

Heaps of love Peeps.

ESTHER AUSTIN GLOBAL PRESENT EMPOWERMENT/SPIRITUAL FILM NIGHT Friday 19th October @ 7:30pm at the Spirited Palace, Crystal Palace.

Finally, finally, finally. I will be hosting the much awaited Spiritual film nights at The Spirited Palace starting in October, on a Friday. Dates will be confirmed in my next newsletter. This is a passion of mine that has finally come to fruition. I will be showing films which touch on some very powerful and profound situations each of us face in life. From the Power of Forgiveness, to Relationships, to abuse, trauma etc with Q&A afterwards, giving everyone time to discuss, explore, and even heal.

It’s time for humanity to deal with some very serious issues that are causing pain and stagnation of the Soul.

Let’s bring the family, community back together, let’s work on and deal with those issues that are keeping us apart.

I have an amazing array of very powerful and life changing films. Empowering, inspiring thought, provoking. It’s time to TALK people, to LOOK in the mirror of your truth without judgment and put stuff down in a supportive, loving environment.

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The Holistic & Alternative Therapies Discovery Day is a great opportunity to experience 5 Powerful Modalities from Master Trainers in one single day:-

VENTURE FM RADIO - PILLOW TALK - www. venturefmradio.com, 99.5fm

Sunday 7th October - 9.00am - 6.00pm ESTHER AUSTIN GLOBAL DISCOUNT ON TICKETS, SEE BELOW • • • • •

Thought Field Therapy (TFT) - Kevin Laye Theta Healing - Alexandra P. Brown Access Consciousness - Julia Hogg Quantum Touch - Karina Grant Energetic NLP - Marilyn Devonish

Park Crescent Conference Centre, International Students House, 229 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5PN This day is for you if: • If you are already a practitioner, and are interested in exploring new areas and expanding your skill set.

• You are passionate about your own personal growth and fascinated to develop yourself through exploring new fields, modalities and techniques.

• You would like to become a therapist/ practitioner and are looking for the right holistic therapy, which you can then use to create your own practice.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT: Use special code

“eaglobal” when checking out and get a

discounted ticket for just £20 (normal price £77).

For all the information and to book your place please go to: http://www.thediscoveryday. co.uk

As many of you know I host alive show every Wednesday called PILLOW TALK 8pm-10pm, about love and relationships.

I also offer taster live intuitive readings, play amazing music, interview great guests and then get slow and intimate after 9pm for one whole delightful hour where sensuality meets straight honest talk You can listen to interviews conducted over the past few weeks by clicking here: What’s love got to do with it? Simply Everything.

Venture FM’s new website will be up and running very soon, until then you can listen to previous interviews at http://www. qarmabroadcast.co.uk/2.html • The Power of Silence Discussion and lively and very conscious Interview on Dr Yehoeshahfaht’s Show • The Power of the Mind - Animated Discussion with The Roots Doctor on the

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Roots Doctor’s Show • Inner Guidance and Prayer Interview with Salle Redfield - www. celestinevision.com Wednesday 19th September I interview the dynamic Xavia Fox from the USA - about Relationships.

SALE, SALE, SALE, SALE Love in Motion Album - an Album of sensuality, love and music. USUALLY £10, now going for £7. Exclusive. Email: info@ estheraustinglobal.com for further details

As part of Black History Month at Pempamsie, Brixton Hill, Thursday 25th October, 7pm Esther Austin will be launching her new book and the audio book Within Silence, Wisdom Whispers.

Further details can be found here: www. withinsilencewisdomewhispers.blogspot. com QARMA THERAPIES - EXTENDS RANGE OF TREATMENTS Also Intuitive Readings and Intuitive Healing on offer - please go to Coming soon Seated Chair Massage, Hand, Arm and Leg Reflexology and much more Website currently being updated but in the meantime you can still visit www. qarmatherapies.co.uk.

Sending you all lots of love. So much more to share, but not enough time this time.

Remember what’s love got to do with it, with life? Simply Everything

ESTHER AUSTIN Intuitive Healer and Intuitive Reader ThetaHealing Basic DNA Practitioner Hypno-Analysis and Regression Therapist Also remember my book Within Silence, Wisdom Whispers can be purchased on Amazon and finally, finally in October my Audio Book/Album will be available.

Transforming, Healing and Awakening the Inner You www.qarmatherapies.co.uk www.qarmabroadcast.co.uk

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Canon Street Memorial Baptist Church 300 Soho Road Handsworth, Birmingham B21

FOR BIRMINGHAM:

Tel 07944765722 - 07974303443 - 07958671117

Behind the scenes at Gele Tea. Models in Kosibah

It’s a wrap for Africa

Gèlè Tea using fashion to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s

by Puvana Sakthivel

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HERE HAVE been several fashion shows of late with African inspired theme but Gèlè Tea, the haute couture afternoon tea and fashion show organised to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s in black, Asian and minority ethnic communities has suddenly arrived.

Gèlè Tea hit the mark bringing together top gèlè stylists Lara Extravaganza, Juliet Esiri, Bolanle Okusanya Feyita and Juliet Osodi who were matched with award winning couture designers Adebayo Jones, Yemi Osunkoya of Kosibah, who is designing a special collection for Porsche Nigeria, Mayfair couturier Clariscia Gill, and newcomer iJeve Designs who Fab magazine editor Sinem Bilen Onabanjo calls “a woman to watch.”

There was an air of expectation about Gèlè Tea from the beginning as attendees queued outside the Shakespeare Suite in the London Bridge Hotel to have their gèlès (headwraps) styled.

Gele is made from a stretch of fabric which Gèlè stylists work to create beautifully structured pieces that mirror haute couture.

EXQUISITE

pushes boundaries. The stunning “Lobho”, a black veiled Gèlè was so high it scraped the ceiling and left guests in awe, while gèlès under the Posh (Kosibah) and Classic (Adebayo Jones) banners also rocked the house.

DELICIOUS Guests enjoyed a champagne reception and were served with a delicious afternoon tea - a tower of sandwiches, warm scones and mouthwatering French pastries.

TRENDSETTER: Model Siobhan Ridguard in the Lobho, the showpiece gèlè by Juliet Esiri

The designers took inspiration from contemporary Africa, mixing old with new.

The bold palettes of red, royal blue, grey, orange and silvers used by Kosibah, Gill and iJeve designs were contrasted with the heavy gold embroidery and richness of Adebayo Jones and stunning make up

by Facequizite, Juliet Osodi and Faces of Bodin. But it’s all about the Gèlès.

Hosts Adebayo Jones and Esther Alade treated the audience to many firsts: Gèlè cake from Panari Cakes, gèlè shoe clips from Dionne Gooding, jewellry by Dapri Jewels, live sketching by Tonderai and the launch of ‘Memories (Gèlè song) by singer songwriter Lánre, the first song about Alzheimer’s in the black community and the theme for Gèlè Tea that is certain to become a hit.

Significantly, all the ladies wore headwear The butterfly collection by Bolanle as a mark of respect to the lady who Okusanya Feyita, paired with designs by inspired Gèlè Tea and many danced in her Clariscia Gill was a revelation. They were honour with 73-year-old model Mrs Disu. exotic and colourful giving the models a unique sense of gracefulness.

Gèlè Tea founder Yinka Sunmonu said: “The feedback has been tremendous and Juliet Esiri in the avant garde section guests say we need a bigger venue next shows why she is earmarked as one who year. I’m just happy knowing that Gèlè Tea

PHOTOGRAPHY By - Segun Olotu.

The models were exquisite as they strutted around reminding us of Hollywood vintage glam worn by the likes of Grace Kelly, who exuded suaveness and sophistication (she popularised head scarves) and Diahann Carroll. Today, we look to Beyoncé who There was also admiration for the ‘Sinem’ could have worn many of the outfits Gèlè by Juliet Osodi. shown.

The Kosibah collection is particularly memorable for the jewellry designed exclusively for Gele Tea by Jodelyn of London – bold, sophisticated and wearable by night and day.

is contributing to dementia awareness and promoting gèlè as couture and I thank everyone who supports me.”

Symbolically, the gèlè is the way her life story can be remembered. It is a thing of beauty that she loves and many parts of her history are intertwined through the traditional headwear that becomes a focal point for those around her.

During the event, the catchy chorus “Ewo gèlè ori mi yaya” echoed throughout the hotel as guests joined in the song.

IN FINE STYLE: The make-up and Gele stylists

With World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, Gèlè Tea is showing how to target so called “hard to reach” groups gèlèciously.

fashion for a cause Esther Alade, the wonderful co-host who shone in an Adebayo Jones creation, highlighted many firsts, writes Muyi Toyin: a Gèlè cake from Panari Cakes, pioneers in wedding cake toppers that depict couples in traditional outfits; gèlè shoe clips from rising shoe designer Dionne Gooding; a live drawing by Tonderai Arts who designs gèlè greeting cards and documents gèlè through art; and the talents of gèlè stylist Bim Elufowoju.

Lánre said, “ As a singer songwriter, as a storyteller, all I needed to do was think about the gèlè and what it stood for and how, when certain tribes wear certain colours, you can tell where they’re from and their life history without them uttering a word”.

Guests also listened as model Davina read the first hand account of a wife whose husband has Alzheimer’s and how life changes.

Model Davina reads first hand account from carer

A highlight of the afternoon had to be the launch of ‘Memories (Gèlè song) by singer songwriter Lánre for Gèlè Tea.

“The overall message of Gèlè Tea, apart from promoting gèlè as couture, is to make people aware of the disease and more accepting of it,” Said organiser MG.

The song is about a woman who is losing her memory to Alzheimer’s. It asks who will remember her life when her memory deteriorates.

An Alzheimer’s Disease International report published last month finds that: 24% of people with dementia hide or conceal their diagnosis citing stigma as the

handmade chocolate truffles from Chocolate Ambassador Paul Wayne Gregory and delights from Panari Cakes.

The London Bridge Hotel donated a two night stay as part of a raffle draw and other prizes included: a gèlè sketch from Tonderai Arts; fabric from Monique Textiles, jewellry from Dapri Jewels and delectable chocolates from Chocolate Ambassador Paul Wayne Gregory.

Adebayo Jones said, “Gèlè Tea is a trailblazer.

It uses Gèlè as couture and matches it with fashion to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s, which we tend to remain silent about in the community. Gèlè Tea rocks.”

Model Kitou in Clariscia Gill

Model Siobhan Ridguard, who wore the ‘Lobho’ said, “It was such an honor to be asked to partake for the second consecutive year. It was amazing to see the way Gelé Tea has evolved and the reception it received.I loved every minute of it and it was a day well spent for such a great cause.”

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception

As guests left the hotel with GH City Print mugs, Redbush Citrus Tea and fashionable gèlès, one remembers the overall theme of this year’s Gèlè Tea - Gèlèpoque – a new dawn for gèlè.

Ewo gèlè ori mi yaya. Gèlè ti de oh!

(Look at the elaborate gèlè on my head. Gèlè has arrived oh!)

Panari Cakes

before the event and were served with afternoon tea - assorted sandwiches, warm scones, cakes, pastries and macaroons during it. They were also spoilt with

Couture designer and co-host Adebayo Jones with his models and a Lyze Bamigbola Silas hat

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PHOTOGRAPHY By - Segun Olotu.

main reason; 40% of those surveyed said they are not included in every day life; and 40% of people with dementia report they have been avoided or treated differently.

TEN OF THE BEST GÈLÈ STYLISTS Compiled by Gèlè Tea

Bim Elufowoju

Talented Bim Elufowoju is a lady to watch especially as she works wonders with aso oke, a traditional fabric also known as the wedding material. Her work is captivating. She is the newest entrant on the list.

Juliet Esiri

Juliet Esiri of Akin Orewa pushes boundaries when it comes to gèlè and is truly avantgarde. She created the popular Gèlè at Ascot, introducing netting on headties to mimic hats for ladies attending the classic event. She tied Morinike Sotunde ‘s wedding gèlè when she married “maestro” Segun Gèlè. Juliet created the eye opening ‘Lobho’ for Gèlè Tea.

Lara Extravaganza

Lara’s designs are extravagantly elegant and pay homage to vintage gèlès as well as modern styles. She has received accolades from some of our finest designers and the red gèlè designed for the first Gèlè Tea went ‘global’.

Bolanle Okusanya Feyita

International make up artist Bolanle of makeuuproonline, has a special flair for styling and creating gèlès. With an innate sense of fashion, style and beauty, Bolanle’s gèlè looks are set to become iconic. She created the butterfly look for Gèlè Tea.

Mariam Mogaj, Canada

Mariam Mogaji owns African Beauty in Toronto, where she is seen as the leading gèlè stylist.

She has appeared on television showcasing her talents and talking about gèlè. She says, “I introduced professional gèlè tying to our community and I’m proudly a gèlèlite!”

Hakeem Oluwasegun Olaleye, Houston, USA

Hakeem Oluwasegun Olaleye aka Segungele is the world’s first celebrity gèlè stylist. Creative, innovative and an arbiter of style, he is credited with revolutionsing designs and making gèlès highly fashionable and desirable once more. He has a training school and has launched ‘Gèlè Artistry’, an instructional DVD on how to tie the headwrap.

Mary Onime of SIGnachore Fashion, Houston, USA

Mary is passionate about gèlè, has made it a career and has started to incorporate beadwork in gèlè.

Houston Museum contacted her when they wanted to run a workshop on gèlè.

Juliet ‘Onyeka’ Osodi

Juliet of Onyeka beauty is a renowned make up & hair artist who has worked with a number of stars. Although her entry into professional gèlè styling is relatively new, remember her name.

She created the ‘Gabby’ for Gèlè Tea (named after Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas) and the ‘Sinem’, which is gaining popularity.

Yemi Osunkoya

Unveiled. Kosibah Creative Director and multi award winning couture designer Yemi Osunkoya is a talented gèlè stylist who can be seen tying an improptu gèlè for BBC Focus on Africa presenter Bola Mosuro online.

Lyze Bamigbola Silas,

The extraordinarily talented Lyze Bamigbola Silas designs amazing hats and fascinators and counts royalty among her clients.

Her latest collection is ‘Bedazzled and does it glow. She’s becoming a force at Fashion Weeks where attention is usually focused on clothes.

Gèlèctionary

Gèlèlite- all encompassing word for somebody who appreciates gèlè.

Gèlètiology –the study of gèlè Gèlètiquette - gèlè rules/manners Gèlèpoque – new dawn for Gèlè Gèlèsimma – beautiful gèlè Find out more about Gèlè Tea: Website: www.geletea.com coming soon Facebook – Gèlè Tea Twitter: gèlè_tea

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FRIENDS OF BALI HAI PRESENTS Bali Hai Reunion 3 THIS IS A NIGHT FOR REMINISCING MEETING OLD FRIENDS AND SAYING GOODBYE TO A TIME WHEN LIFE REALLY WAS SIMPLE BALI HAI WAS A RENOWNED CLUB IN THE 70s & 80S SO DIG DEEP IN YOUR WARDROBE GABICCI, FARAH JEANS, TANK TOPS, PLEATED SKIRTS, BELL OTTOMS, FLARES, ALL AFROS WELCOME 70/80 WEAR IS OPTIONAL WE HAD A HELL OF A TIME IN APRIL, SO DON'T MISS OUT THIS TIME HOST: DONNA SPENCE FEATURING THE BALI HAI TRIBUTE BAND ,JAZZ FUNK ,R&B REGGAE, PAs TWO ROOMS OF ORIGINAL MUSIC , DJs GORDON MAC ,SOFANA B, PLEASURE, SHOWCASE SATURDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2012 TICKETS £29.50 WITH MAIN MEAL, CABARET & COMEDY, DANCING 8-4AM BOOK ON LINE www.hideawaylive.co.uk AFTER DINNER TICKETS £16.00 10.30PM-4PM WITH PA AND DANCING 07957441101/07704379665 HIDEAWAY JAZZ CLUB STREATHAM SW16 2BF opposite streatham station BOOK IN ADVANCE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

60

Seconds interview

Rick Brennan with

of the classic group

Change.

The Legendary - Rick Brennan

Produced By Wayne A. Dickson Big Break Records, (Marketed & Distributed By - Cherry Red Records) www.bigbreakrecords.co.uk www.cherryred.co.uk PURCHASE YOUR COPY @ http://www.cherryred.co.uk/shopexd.asp?id=3038

Tell all your fans. What keeps you inspired after all these years?

My fans and my love for music. I was truly overwhelmed when Change did the first live show in many years, at the O2, back in November 2010, alongside GQ & Brass Construction; I had people that came into London, from France, Slovakia, even fan's & friends I had not seen since 1989. That's what keeps me inspired, those who keep our music alive.

Even if the sound was not 100% at the O2 concert, seeing so many old friends & fans made the whole thing real. It was truly humbling.

We get a lot of Best of CHANGE release's, but it’s nice when we're called to comment or to record on releases, like The Tribute to The FUNK double CD & DVD as well as the Tribute to The Disco FUNK double CD (2003 - 2004) on Sony BMG France. Big Break Record & Cherry Red Records have just released four of our albums (Sharing Your Love, This Is Your Time. Jam & Lewis hit album: Change Of Heart & the last ever Change album Turn on the Radio), all with no less than 4 - 7 Bonus tracks. It’s good that companies do good research, to know who to contact for such releases.

All this truly keeps me going and inspired.

Working with The Klub International

Management Company Info, on Change contact: theklub@hotmail.co.uk, now for well over twenty years, it was also nice to see the mention of my manager 'Lekan Olujinmi', mentioned on the inlay card of “Time Is Your Time”.

What are your plans for the New Year 2012 - Do you have any New Year's Resolutions?

Stay strong in the ‘LORD and keep evil at bay!

And remember to treat people fairly, because the toes you step on today, maybe attached to the ASS you have to kiss tomorrow.

Why did you want to become a music star?

First, I never was thinking of being a star, but I wanted to be like my inspiration: Earth Wind & Fire, and Carlos Santana, they touch me the most spiritually. This was what real music was all about for me, they really moved me.

It’s also great to have people think of me as a Star, I'm just doing what I love doing the most, Entertaining.

If you could make a duet single with anyone dead or alive, who would you choose and why?

Tito Puente the King of Latin Jazz! Because he was like a mentor to me, and i never got to play with him, boy that would have been a blast -WOW! To play with a gifted and spirited musical arranger

What advice would you give to young musicians trying to get in the entertainment game?

Find a great entertainment attorney, and don’t give up on your dreams! Musicians and artistes are not treated right, they tend to be the last to get there dues, so they should make sure, no matter how good things sound, get a good attorney to check things out, even if its someone within your family, who studied Law. They need to go into the business with their eyes WIDE open, too many people lie, Cheat & Scheme within the industry. You should make notes on your dreams, and keep going back to it, for others will try to live their dreams via you. Keep your eyes on the real prize.

Who is your current favourite music icon and why?

Carlos Santana, why? His music has touch me the most emotionally, songs like’ Give me life. I understand its meaning. Carlos Santana why? His music has touch me the most emotionally, songs like 'Give me life.'

I understand its meaning. His fusion using blues-based guitar lines set against Latin and African rhythms and percussion instruments still blow me away today

What is one thing your life experiences have taught you, which you would like to, teach others?

The power of obtaining ‘Wisdom and Knowledge, the proverbs in the ‘HOLY BIBLE, teaches you that.

Do you have any fears? If yes or no please explain?

I have ‘NO FEARS, I put my trust in the ‘LORD, because his will, will be done!

What did you love about Christmas when you were a child?

I didn’t have a lot of gifts because we were poor, despite our circumstances our family could still get together and have a good time.

I love Christmas because it was always a lot of laughing and fun with my family. I didn’t have a lot of gifts because we were poor, however despite our circumstances, our family could still get together and have a really good time.

Describe in three words your experience of love?

TRIED, FAILED, FOUND! Interview Supplied By: Mr. Lekan Olujinmi of The Klub International Management Company ‘Keeping Entertainment Simple, & At It’s Best’

Olympia Beauty The Art of Makeup Best Newcomer Award Winner 2012:

Tanesha Coley

Model: Simara Dixon Hairstylist: Michaela Samuels Hair Accessories: Tanesha Coley Photography: Peter Branch

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O

n Wednesday 17th October 2012, the world famous Empire Cinema in Leicester Square will witness a unique collaboration of a Nigerian/British production with the world premiere of the much anticipated movie 'AMINA', a psychological human drama featuring Nollywood megastars OMOTOLA JALADEEKEINDE and VAN VICKER alongside top British movie stars WIL JOHNSON, VINCENT REGAN and ALISON CARROLL aka Lara Croft.

Nollywood on the Next Level Nigerian cinema – popularly known as ‘Nollywood’ is Africa’s largest movie industry both in value and the number of movies produced per year with millions of fans worldwide. Films made by experienced Nigerians living in the UK now represent a valuable addition to both the UK and Nigerian movie industries.

AMINA can be best described as a British film with Nollywood sensibilities. Written, produced and directed by CHRISTIAN ASHAIKU, an innovative Nigerian born London based filmmaker; AMINA tells a deeply emotional and dramatic story dealing with the themes of love, loss and redemption. Told in flashback, AMINA is about the life of a gifted young woman (Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde) who, devastated by a series of life changing events suffers a total breakdown and finds herself incarcerated in a mental hospital.

Only one person can help Amina, her doctor (Wil Johnson), but he must overcome his own demons before he can help Amina confront her past.

Shot completely on location in London and at St Ann’s Hospital in north London AMINA is being described by UK industry insiders as possessing real crossover potential and a film that can elevate and redefine Nollywood to become more widely recognized within mainstream cinema. AMINA is the first British movie starring Nollywood’s most bankable actress and Ghana's biggest male star.

“It’s my hope that AMINA will highlight the co-production opportunities and benefits between the UK and Africa” Christian Ashaiku said in a statement.

AMINA is a production of AOC COMMUNICATIONS in conjunction with AFRICAN FILM TOURS, two unique London based media companies which together have a mission to produce inspirational commercial feature films and at the same time contribute to the development of exhibition of world cinema for a global audience. The premiere of AMINA will play host to a line-up of UK industry professionals, Nollywood stars and politicians from across the globe, media & medical executives and many more.

An exclusive After Party will feature special performances from top UK rapper SWAY and lead actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde performing the title track 'I HOPE' plus Wil Johnson and exciting young songstress SIAM HURLOCK performing 'BREAK FREE' soon to be released from the movie soundtrack.

Amina is currently in negotiations to be released in UK cinemas after the premiere.

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Ultrapreneurship Vs

Entrepreneurship

A

Dragons Den show a few years ago featured James Caan (a popular investor in the UK) on his yacht somewhere mere mortals probably aren’t allowed.

As the camera panned across the clear blue ocean waves, Mr. Caan commented that he needs to do the ‘yacht thing’ once a month to clear his head and make tough decisions when he’s back in the city.

It left an impression on myself and I imagine most viewers that ‘taking time out’ to get clarity of mind is the reserve of those very high flying business people.

There are successful business people I know that when a really important decision needs to be made they go and have a massage and talk it over with their business partner on the table next to them. They don’t call a high pressured round table.

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I was recently with a few of the UK’s most well respected advertising minds. They told me that some of the most notable TV adverts we see weren’t conjured up during a creative ‘brain storm’ with coffee and donuts. But it was when someone was on holiday, chillaxing or doing something completely unrelated.

(seemingly) softer elements, they have no real life, value or satisfaction outside of their enterprise. Without the sugar coat, some of them become ill, have broken relationships, no real friends and they’ve at some point lost the perspective on life which drove them in the first place.

Over 10 years ago I went to a seminar which was presented by a sharp stock market wiz. Half way through the presentation he reached over to a table to take a sip on green juice not water. He went on to explain the benefits that drinking this green (vegetable based) juice had on him as a businessman.

Surely that cannot be the way forward and is the essence of Ultrapreneurship. Defined in my recent best seller as:

Last night I trained at what’s probably regarded as London’s premier sports club.

My gym partner pushed me really hard and I was using all sorts of expletives during the session. The feel good hormone that was released into my system during the hour post my session acted as a creative stimulus resulting in me writing the first chapter of my new book with ease on the train ride home.

So what am I getting at?

You see, the schools of thought currently surrounding entrepreneurship don’t present the softer assisting factors such as balance, health, state of mind, relaxation etc (those ideas I’ve mentioned above) as priorities or equal to commercial factors like ROI, retention, profit + loss, growth etc.

The problem is that even though there are plenty of commercially successful entrepreneurs who have forgone those

Ultrapreneur Someone who has exceeded in their undertaking as an entrepreneur but also has a profound effect on their family, community, country or humanity.

Ultrapreneurship A holistic approach encompassing all aspects of one’s life including entrepreneurship, health and well being, family, spirituality, morality and mentality which come together to provide supreme balance.

The suggestion to entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneur is that those assisting factors which obviously benefit who we regard as high flying entrepreneurs are actually necessary now and during the journey to the top and not just when you’re at the top.

In fact it’s my belief that a contributing factor to the failure of businesses and many of those non starters are due to these assisting factors which aren’t taught about in the business books, seminars and schools

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preparing the entrepreneurs for battle. When comparisons are made to why one business worked and another doesn’t it’s absurd dissect the problem without understanding the contributing human dynamic.

It’s not our fault, we’ve never been taught

anything different. And that’s the point of Ultrapreneurship; take a different approach, just slightly and see the difference.

Find out more by going to http:// www.julianhall.co.uk/2012/07/bookentrepreneur-to-ultrapreneur-100.html

Finding clarity in a world of information overload To book Julian Hall for speaking and workshop faciliation Call +44 (0) 845 053 9238 or email genius@julianhall.co.uk today!

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The long await

British Reggae Indust 21st Feburary 2013

T

he British Reggae Industry Award (B.R.I.A.) was first established in 1981 to acknowledge British reggae artists for their dedication and contribution to reggae music. The mission has not changed, but has been revitalized because of the continuous interest for reggae music.

B.R.I.A provides the ultimate platform for this music genre to be showcased to the world; cumulating in a prestigious Awards Ceremony.

the development of reggae music amongst the younger generation, and also honour the contributions of the more established Artists within the industry. There is a need for a unified approach, to the delivery and positive promotion of reggae music to its audiences and it is our aim, to assist where possible in this ongoing journey.

B.R.I.A proudly announces their desire to give back to the wider community and will be using the audience of the Awards The British Reggae Industry Awards will Ceremony to highlight a positive cause. take place on the 21st February 2013 at the 02 Indigo Arena; Tickets are now available B.R.I.A are supporting the Prostrate Cancer from www.ticketmaster.com. The show Charity, this is an important charity to for will start from 6.00pm and finish at 11pm the Caribbean community to acknowledge, due to number awards and big headliner because black men are three times more acts such as “Tippa Irie” “Christopher Ellis” likely to get prostate cancer, then their “John McClean” “Lady Lex” and many white counterpart. B.R.I.A are thus urging more. for ALL men, of any ethnic background to get a medical checkup if they are The ceremony will see potential nominees concerned. from various categories, in the line-up to win this year’s much coveted B.R.I.A B.R.I.A is planning an ‘star studied’ event, Award. Potential winners such as Jimmy where reggae music can be appreciated Cliff and Freddie McGregor are up for this by all, this can only happen with your year’s ‘Life time achievement’ Award and support and we are encouraging all reggae the category for The ‘Best New Comer’ will fans to come and support UK reggae and see nominees, such as Miss Kjah and Claire also enjoying a fantastic evening watching Angel in the running to win. outstanding performances, by both our domestic and international champions.

The endeavour is to make a lasting connection with the Awards, as an If you would like more information then annually recognised event; not only in the please visit the website: U.K but also internationally. The Awards will provide encouragement and enhance www.britreggae.com Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

ted return of :

try Awards (B.R.I.A) 3, at The O2 Indigo

Big headliner acts such as “Tippa Irie” “Christopher Ellis” “John McClean” “Lady Lex” and many more.....

YOU DECIDE THE WINNERS !

B.R.I.A and all of the Nominees would like to thank you for your support and taking the time to vote. We are pleased to announce that we now have the B.R.I.A finalists (the top five from the initial round).

Now we need you to vote for your winner.

The slate is clean, everyone is starting from a level playing field, which also allows those of you who may have voted for someone else the opportunity to cast your vote for one of the top five finalists. The initial round of voting resulted in 64,445 votes across all categories.

We at B.R.I.A know that there are more people who care about reggae music , please spread the word and let’s see if we can get more then 64,445 total votes and show the music industry that Reggae Music is Number 1.

YOUR VOTE COUNTS!

Dear Fans As some of you may be aware, Studio One has been nominated by the British Reggae Industry Awards (BRIA) for the best sound system in Britain.

Obviously we couldn’t have done it without you.

We are now at the final stage and really need you, your relatives, friends even your enemies to log on to : www.britreggae.com and vote for us.

If you think we’ve entertained you with good music this Year, please vote for ‘US’ Blessing Patrick Isaacs

Models: Paula Souza & Simara Dixon

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Peter Branch

Freelance Photographer Phone: +447580211126 email: peter@peterbphotos.com http://www.peterbphotos.com http://www.facebook.com/peterbphotos http://www.twitter.com/ptrbee

SO YOU WANT TO BE IN‌MUSIC MANAGEMENT ?

by Dionne Grant

An interview with Zeon Richards, the manager of north London rapper Wretch 32, to find out the method behind his entrepreneurial magic.

MEN IN BLACK: Zeon (left) with Wretch 32

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

H

E MANAGES one of the biggest UK artists right now, so Zeon Richards - the manager of north London rapper Wretch 32 – knows a thing or two about pressure and effective artist management.

Here, the founder and managing director of Xyzee Music talks to Dionne Grant about 4am wake up calls, embracing change and offers advice on successful artist management.

Give me a typical day in your life…

I wake up at 4am, go through my to-do list, catch up with emails and try to plan my day.

When does the planning stop and your actual day start?

Normally my meetings start at 10am – I probably have four or five a day. Obviously people are now actually replying to my emails so it makes it easier (laughs). It’s an impossible task, but I try to respond to all of my emails and calls that come in. It’s quite a balancing act.

Before people used to say, ‘you can manage Wretch’ and I would say, ‘no, I’m just his friend.’

The first call I made (in a manager capacity) was to (1Xtra DJ) Twin B. I had known him for years and seen him around, but during my first conversation with him, he said ‘I want to sign him (Wretch).’ It was a bit of a shock, but also a blessing.

What did you study at university?

I studied operations management and HR, but I always found it hard to get jobs because from the time I was 18 Wretch already had videos out there. On my CV I would be saying, ‘I’ve plugged Wretch on MTV and I’ve managed to get him editorial in papers.’ It almost sounded too good to be true. People would say, ‘why are you applying for a job in this industry? You should be working in music!’ But in my head, there were no jobs for black people in music.

At the time I never ever saw it was possible.

For those who don’t know, what is it that you do?

Essentially, I manage music artists. I manage (UK rapper) Wretch 32, soul singer Jacob Banks, UK singer Kyra and the talented George The Poet.

What made you want to get involved in artist management?

I never wanted to be a manager. Wretch and I grew up together and I just wanted my friend to do well. I was always helping him out, basically things you would do for a friend. I eventually got a job doing something else after I graduated, but was still helping him out. After six months in the job I realised that that it wasn’t for me. I felt like I should be pursuing music. It was the first time in five or six years that I put myself out there to say, ‘I’m a manager!’

GROWTH: Zeon and Wretch 32 have been friends since early childhood. He says their working relationship started from just wanting to see his friend ‘do well’

What makes your job unique?

No two days are the same. You create your own workload. No one can sit there and tell you that you’ve got to get up at 9am and you’ve got to get to that meeting because you’re in

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

control. You’re running your own business.

It has to be said that management is one of the most demanding and high-pressured jobs out there. It’s not like a chocolate bar, where you have twenty of them and one of them isn’t doing so well so you can get rid of it, people are trusting their lives and career to you - that’s pressure! Every day that something’s not happening for them, it feels like a time bomb.

How do you deal with that pressure?

That’s why I wake up at 4am! (laughs) At least that way I know that I’ve done all that I can, which to some extent puts my nerves at rest. If I was being lax, it wouldn’t sit very well with me. I never got involved in music for money. I wanted to be a part of something and create some sort of legacy to put black people and music to the forefront.

The day I lose that, I might as well step out of the game I think.

How has your role changed over the years?

It has been very weird. It’s weird when I walk down the street and people recognise Wretch because for me, that’s just Jermaine.

Our mums went school together, we’re all from the same area and on Wednesdays we all play football together with the same set of friends we have done for years – nothing has changed. I feel a responsibility to protect him. I feel like he has had to take one for the team to now be the known face. I can walk down the street any day of the week and no one bothers me, but for him, by following his career (and ensuring that I have one too), he now has all eyes on him.

What kind of hurdles have you had to overcome?

There was no blue print. Imagine, we’d get called to attend a meeting and we didn’t know what we were supposed to do once we

got there. We would just go and hear what other people had to say. It takes a while for you to get enough confidence to say what you want from the meeting. No matter who calls you and what they put on the table, you have to be able to say what you want out of it. It took a long time to get that sort of confidence.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Control. You’re building something, so you’re in control. You’re creating a legacy - not in a boastful way. It’s something that in 10 or 15 years from now, you can turn to your kids and say ‘I was a part of the start of this.’

I remember seeing George The Poet in action. It’s like I was seeing Wretch 32 being reincarnated. I was like ‘this kid is special!’ I sent a video to Wretch and he was like, ‘you better work with this boy! This is bigger than money, our kids need to grow up and listen to this guy. I don’t care how much this costs, we need to make it happen!’ For me, if we

TALENT: Zeon says that one of his biggest achievements to date is getting his act George The Poet a date at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

can all maintain the mantra that it’s not only about money and that we’re trying to make a difference then I think we’ll keep going. It’s about passion. Money will always come, but you have to keep that passion.

How big is your team now?

I have three people that work with me, but with Wretch there’s obviously a bigger team – there’s a lot of stuff that’s outsourced. With Wretch at first it kind of shocked me that so many emails can come through and it scared me to work with anyone else. It takes a long time to be able to delegate stuff and feel comfortable doing that – that’s something I’m still trying to do.

more to do.

I think from the conversations I’m having, the next 12 months are going to surprise a lot of people in terms of what black people on a whole are able to achieve - not only in music, but in entertainment too. If you look at films, it’s becoming quite normal to see a black film in the cinema, but if you notice, it’s only the local urban cinemas taking the films.

In terms of comedy, comedians are starting to get their own shows. I think the next 12 months we’re going to make big steps. If you remember when you were in school, how many black people did you know that

How are you doing?

(Laughs) Not bad, I’m getting better at it. I need to get to a stage where an email or call doesn’t have to come to me first and place where I can trust in that person’s decision.

For me, it’s a necessity and it has to happen.

That’s what the business calls for.

What excites you most about your job?

I like having the perception that I’m the underdog. When you get to a certain stage, from outside in, it looks like you’re high. If you put yourself around people that are always doing better than you, it makes you want to do better.

For instance, I told George The Poet that he’s going to do a show at The Royal Albert Hall.

To some that’s an impossible goal, but we’re going to make it happen. We had a meeting earlier this year and they’re going to give us a show at The Royal Albert Hall. It’s always about aiming high. In my head it’s feeling like you always have something to do. It’s about trying to create epic moments. We’re doing ok, but on a scale of one to 10, we’re about a two or a three. We have so much

EXPANDING THE ROSTER: UK singer Kyra is also on Zeon’s musical roster of acts

owned a business – aside from black food shops? The next generation’s wave is going to be crazy. Their dreams are going to be so high and their determination rock solid that more doors will open.

What advice would you give those who want to venture into the world of artist management?

I think only work with someone if in your heart you 100 percent believe in them.

Realistically, no one is ever going to believe at first. There will probably be 99 out of 100 people that are not going see what you see, so that initial passion has to drive you.

Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

I would say that you have to really want it. If you don’t want it, people can see it. There are times where Wretch and I have had just two hours sleep but have been running up and down the country doing promo. In our head, we have no choice but to do this, we don’t want the life we once had. We have to make this happen. Unless you have that ruthless mentality whereby it’s this or nothing, it’ll be hard for you.

What has been your biggest achievement to date within your career?

To be honest, the biggest problem I have is that I don’t take breaks, so I haven’t had the

chance to sit back and take it all in. For me, the biggest achievement was walking into The Royal Albert Hall and making them want to do a show with George The Poet. Now that may sound silly because Wretch has achieved so much, but getting George a date in that venue was big for me.

I’ll give you a joke, I went to Victoria train station and told the cab driver that I needed to go to The Royal Albert Hall and the guy said to me, ‘are you sure you don’t mean the Jamaican Embassy?’ That’s what the guy said to me (laughs). We have got a lot to do.

But in addition, one of my biggest achievements

to date is Wretch 32 reaching number one in the charts with Don’t Go. Do you remember where you were when you found out Wretch had made it to number one?

I think we would have all built big companies and be doing much more than one thing. We’re all going to be in a position where we’re doing well. We’ll all have multi-national companies – our equivilent of Roc Nation (record label and management company owned by rapper Jay Z).

We had just got off a flight and were in Pizza Hut. It’s weird because it’s never really just me and him. We were sitting there and then we got the message through, it took us by surprise.

For more information about Zeon Richards or his acts, visit www.xyzee-music.co.uk Written By Dionne Grant

What are three things you can’t live without?

My Blackberry, my missus -who is my support - and my friends.

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Cl d ic W k hi bu to y op Wr te ( an en et D d c i do Tu h 3 elux w ne 2 e nl s V oa to er d pr sio m ev n) us ie ic w . ,

Where will you be in ten years?

R E S FRA

E 2 L 1 L 0 2 E K N U JA T T& s s i M

Photography by - Abert St Clair

Janelle Fraser

Crowned Queen of Miss Trinidad &Tobago UK 2012 At 20, Janelle Fraser has accomplished more than her fair share of successes.

Holder of a BA Hons Degree in Media & Communications, Miss Fraser has added yet another accomplishment to collection. She is the winner of the Miss T&T UK 2012 title.

Hair by Design Essential, and Make UP by kbELL Cosmetics. The event was supported by the newly acquired patrons: Patti Boulaye and Ann Fidal and saxophonist Ricado Seales from Tobago set the mood to a packed audience at the Carnival Village Powis Square London on the Saturday 22nd The trained gymnast, ballet, modern and September, 2012 tap dancer resides in Hertfordshire, and represented Maracas Valley, St. Joseph. Her Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK Pageant 2012 ambition to work in the music media PR & TITLE HOLDERS: events industry and in keeping with her • Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK 2012 Miss Maracus Valley St Joseph-Janelle Fraser goals, currently interns at ILUVLIVE as their • 1st Runners UP –Miss Port of Spain- Azaria events coordinator.

Sponsored by ATS consulting limited Miss Fraser was followed closely by first runnerup, Azaria Gairy Newbolt who represented Port of Spain, and second runner-up Leanna Mya Jackson who represented Vessigny.

• • •

• • • • Presented by Dr Patrick Williams and Alafair • Celestine, the pageant is a signature event •

of Carivog International.

Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK Pageant and Cultural Showcase 2012 was sponsored

by Western Union and Caribbean Airlines (Division of Tourism and Transport Tobago).

VICTORIA PHILLIPS

KHALIDA NECKLES

AZARIA GAIRY

NEWBOLT

Gairy Newbolt 2nd Runners Up Leanna Mya Jackson Website Queen- Azaria Gairy Newbolt Carivog Model International-Victoria Phillips Khalida Kneckles Miss Elegance Miss Personality –Janelle Fraser Best Project- Khalida Kneckles Miss Photogenic-Nicole Escorcio Miss Amity: Leanna Mya Jackson Best Project & Red Ribbon Model-Simone Mendosa

For more information, visit the web site www.misstntuk.com or Facebook Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK. W we are now accepting applicants for 2013

LEANNE MYA JACKSON

NICOLE ESCORCIO

SIMONE MENDOZA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: -

Peter Branch Freelance Photographer Phone: +447580211126 email: peter@peterbphotos.com http://www.peterbphotos.com http://www.facebook.com/peterbphotos http://www.twitter.com/ptrbee

BREAST CANCER

by Expert

PANACHE - health & advice

Dr Frank Chinegwundoh

B

reast cancer is the commonest cancer in women. Worldwide, it accounts for 22.9% of all cancers (except for skin cancers).

In 2008 458,000 women died from breast cancer. It can occur in men but is 100 x less likely to do so than in women. However, diagnosis is often delayed in men, with late presentation giving rise to a poorer outcome.

Breast cancer arises most commonly from the inner lining of milk ducts or the lobules that supply the ducts with milk (figure 1).

Figure 1

Signs and symptoms

The earlier a breast cancer is diagnosed the easier it is likely to be to treat it and the better the chance of a cure. Being breast aware simply means getting to know how your breasts normally look and feel at different times of the month. If you notice a change that isn’t normal for you, talk it over with your doctor.

The first noticeable symptom of breast

cancer is often a lump. More than 80% of breast cancers are diagnosed after the discovery of a lump. Having said that most lumps (9 out of 10) turn out not to be breast cancer, but are termed benign.

It is by specialist tests that a cancer is diagnosed or excluded. In the UK, a women who the family doctors suspects could have breast cancer has to be seen by a breast specialist within two weeks. Other pointers to possible breast cancer include retraction of the nipple or bleeding from the nipple or swelling under the armpit.

It is possible to have breast cancer without a lump that is only detected on screening.

Screening is by mammography every three years, now to women age 47-73 years in the UK. Mammography is a special type of breast X-ray. An abnormality leads to a referral to a breast specialist. The uptake of screening is lower for women from inner city localities and lower in black and ethnic minority women.

At times presentation of disease is with spread of the cancer, called metastases.

Sites of metastases include bone, liver, brain and lung.

Risk factors for developing breast cancer.

The primary risk factors are older age and being female. Black women tend to be younger when the develop breast cancer.

Other risk factors include not having children, not breastfeeding, a high fat diet, obesity, smoking and lack of physical activity.

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There are genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2 which are inherited. A carrier of one of these genes has a high risk of developing breast cancer. A further familial element is demonstrated by the fact that those women with a first degree relative with the disease, the risk of breast cancer between age 40 and 50 is double that of the general population.

Diagnosis

Tests include X-ray or ultrasound or even MRI scan of the breasts. A biopsy of the lump makes the definitive diagnosis. Fine needle aspiration can be used to obtain cells from the lump for a pathologist to examine for cancer cells.

Classification

This aids the decision making as to the treatment of breast cancer. The surgeon will wish to know the grade of the tumour. That is, how aggressive the cancer cells look under a microscope. The stage of the cancer (TNM staging) is how far the cancer has spread in the breast or outside the breast. The type of hormone receptor in the cancer is ascertained as this influences the treatment.

The three important receptors are oestrogen, progesterone and HER2. If the pathology report says that the cancer cells do not carry any of the receptors, it is called triple negative breast cancer. Such cancers do not respond to tamoxifen or herceptin. 10-20% of cancers are triple negative. Black women are three times more likely to be triple negative than white women. Treatment is more challenging.

Management

Breast cancer is usually treated with surgery, to remove the lump or segment of breast

or the whole breast (mastectomy). The lymph glands in the armpit (axilla) may also need removing. A multidisciplinary team is involved in planning the treatment pathway.

According to the classification and patient characteristics, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or hormonal blocking agents may be added.

After mastectomy, advanced plastic surgery techniques may be used to make a new breast out of muscle and/or fat transferred from elsewhere on the body. Or a breast implant may be inserted under the mastectomy wound.

Prognosis

The outlook for breast cancer is improving year on year. The prognosis is based on several factors including the classification of the cancer. The outcome for breast cancer depends on how early or advanced it is when it is diagnosed. Overall, in England and Wales, more than 85 out of every 100 people diagnosed with breast cancer live for at least 5 years after diagnosis. More than 75 out of every 100 people live for at least 10 years. The figures for Scotland are very similar. Researchers have recently predicted (projected) survival rates. They predict that 64 out of every 100 women diagnosed recently with breast cancer (64%) will live for at least 20 years.

Support

The emotional impact of a diagnosis of breast cancer, the treatment, the altered body image is huge. There are several cancer support groups up and down the country which provide a supportive environment to aid women come to terms with their altered circumstance. One such group in London is Cancer Black Care www.cancerblackcare.org

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OCTOBER

IS BREAST cANCER aWARNESS MONTH

Dear Dr. Chinegwundoh. Learning that someone you love ha I have written this letter to you in the hope that people who m manage to get some comfort through knowing that they’re not changed. as i knew it, isele and e day my life, th on m iu grace of a G ad the ease and e Olympic st th ith w s om d my smile fr at an he ed d turn in the 100m tantly update ify ns I HAD just re al co qu lt as w Bo in person.

Twitter feed rinter Usain storic event Jamaican sp a clicked, my essing this hi t. My camer itn I had watched en w om as ket w m I us at ndon 2012 tic to know th ery momento d the world hands on a Lo te r relished in ev ei an th w t I d ge an to y enough I was excited I felt high. had been luck permanent. people who on venue that 00 nd ,0 Lo 20 st e ea th e ment at th d along with ia and excite I had cheere much euphor me to an end. so up ed ak , all highs co is h ut tr e and had so th e. But d. the experienc ew it, change en life, high on y life, as I kn m y da ts. She had be e I was high on th the day's even mpic stadium on ly in O e um th m y om rned fr ady to fill m I had just retu all its glory. r's house, re ndon 2012 in of my brothe Lo or ed do nc t rie on , but it fr pe ugh the tement for us wife and I ex I walked thro genuine exci brother, his r y m he d le se hi w es e y niec ng and witn babysitting m ber her smili . day, I remem e th of y and vacant s ie pp or ha as home. ted st as no one w were cold, un ey As we recoun Th . ay em, there w aw th r h he ug ve ro ga th unt that hen I looked probably ha was her eyes e soul' and w ords that will th w to of w ce do en in 'w ed a sequ eyes are the re she deliver They say the ersation befo nv co in e us l pa for a natura her.

Mum waited rious, unlike e e was flat, se ic vo e. er lif H r . fo id to her. Had sh e m stantly shot ll you," she sa in te es to ey y us m rio r en seeing t I remembe hing quite se and hadn't be atement, bu "I have somet e was single prior to her st sh g in gh do ou th as w ber what I egnant? Even aled.

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THE DAY MY

ED:

LIFE CHANG

A powerful account of how the fam The truth of the matter is that most people su Initial despair needs to be followed by an understan Dr. Chineg

s got Cancer can be quite a life changing experience. may be going through, or have gone through what I have, t alone. t? from the star e involve us loved Why didn't sh ll me? e she had no didn't she te easily assum hy d w ul p, co m ey take the lu e th to und th bothered watching, When she fo e. To anyone r, couldn't be on he al ith el . w av ng tr ow ro road to more w take the bl ly and scary ey couldn't be ng enough to th ei s l-b w el What a lone ne w r ng he out life-changi hing. who cared ab d above anyt received that ones, no one and cherishe her when she h r rt fo ea e is been full er e th th k to be om would'v y person on time off wor cret. That ro more than an se g ed in lu ify va rr , te re easu ge and ved beyond m ying such a hu My mum is lo she was carr ow kn 't dn di ved her mily! guilt, anger...

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It no co r? e d m en to he e look at y) calm an things" happ ol, (seemingl g and took on co in , en ld ev ou w at th he later I thought as turned home e took it like on him. He w My brother re rate room. H w the effect pa sa I se a at rocked th in d, m ws to hi up in be is news had broke the ne safely tucked tale sign that as llw te t um es m gg n bi t, whe at was the later that nigh cigarette. Th It wasn't until other with a br y m t en se d never e that I wasn' smoking. I ha other told m br y M . re m u' 4p yo re. e thinks told me at him to his co upset her if sh ng since mum ll yi u' cr Yo d .

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mily feels with a cancer diagnosis. urvive cancer, although of course many don't. nding by talking to the specialist about the chances. gwundoh.

Health and Fitness tips for October.

by Patrick Lewis Your Fitness Guru

T

he winter months are here and the weather is predicted to get even colder. Most people feel less inclined to exercise during winter but it is just as important as exercising during the summer.

can affect your training leaving you sore and more prone to injury. To help avoid this, always take time to warm up before you start. This means taking at least five minutes at the beginning of your exercise at a gentler pace, then building up to maximum intensity.

We all want to be fit, lose weight and look good so set aside the excuses, let’s put the following tips into action that will leave you feeling invigorated, pumped with energy and wanting more!

Research shows that people who are physically active five or more days a week are actually a third less likely to catch a respiratory infection (such as the common cold). It is believed that bouts of exercise prompt a temporary rise in immune system cells that attack foreign invaders within the body. Although these levels return to normal within a few hours, each session is likely to provide an immune boost to fight off infection. So when you’re feeling well, keep it regular.

Here are some suggestions to being much healthier this winter with your exercise routine.

It’s cold outside..

HEALTH: Colder weather and dark nights can make any fitness programme more difficult. With temperatures dipping into the single digits, venturing outside for a workout is off-putting and even driving to the gym can feel like an effort. But don’t be tempted to hibernate; it is important to stay active during the winter months if you want to achieve your health and fitness goals.

We are also used to being constantly reminded to keep active; it’s easy to overlook the fact that there are times when we shouldn’t be exercising at all.

Colds and flu are rife at this time of year and working out when you have a high temperature will only set you back in terms of recovery, causing you even more time away from your fitness programme, So if you want to make progress, take a few days off!

EXERCISE:

Your muscles will be colder in winter than in the summer months, which makes them tighter. This

NUTRITION: Trying to stay healthy in cold weather doesn’t mean you need to shun traditional comfort foods. When you have finished your workout, try a warming chicken curry with wholegrain rice, a thick lentil soup with brown bread or a crispy baked potato served with baked beans. The protein from these winter warmers will help repair damaged muscle tissues while the complex carbohydrates will restore glycogen levels.

Maintaining adequate vitamin stores in the body is also essential for an effective immune response; well-nourished individuals are better prepared immunologically to fight (and recover from) infections. Be sure to include nutritious foods such as lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes and nuts and seeds in your diet; all of which will help boost your protection against germs.

Look forward to being at The Gym soon!

Need to lose weight and stay HEALTHY, SEND a blank email urbanreds@yahoo.co.uk

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Photography by Patrick Lewis Your Fitness Guru

sports

I

n 2010, Africa hosted its first FIFA World Cup, having been the only remaining continent not to do so yet. South Africa welcomed the entire footballing world, and African culture – bar the vuvuzela – made a massively positive impression.

It was beautiful to watch.

On the pitch, however, the African teams were disappointing. The Ivory Coast, at the time Africa’s highest ranked nation in the FIFA rankings, barely showed up, with star players such as Didier Drogba largely anonymous.

The March to Brazil Africa and the Caribbean

By Kieran Etoria-King

Photography by Ken Passley - pasim4ges@aol.com - 07958724634

C

ameroon were dismal, Algeria finished bottom of their group despite earning a draw against England, South Africa were inspiring in their spirit but came up short on goal difference, and Nigeria were so limp that their furious government tried to ban the national team after the tournament.

Only Ghana got out of the group stage, and looked impressive before being eventually denied a semi-final spot by Uruguay striker Luis Suarez’ infamous goal-line handball.

Meanwhile, the Caribbean region was unrepresented, as the USA, Mexico and Honduras took the three North America spots.

Last month, during the international fortnight, European teams began their World Cup qualifying campaign. However, elsewhere around the world, it has already been underway for up to a year, and everyone is trying to up their game on the Road to Rio. Africa is the only continent that has not yet produced a World Cup semi-finalist. In Africa, the qualification process has reached it’s second round, where the 40 remaining teams have been sorted into 10 groups of 4, and the winners of these groups will be drawn into 5 home-and-away play-offs. The winners of these play-offs will qualify for the World Cup. With 2 of 6 fixtures played, I have a look at some of the region’s hopes for 2014.

GROUP A Team Ethiopia

Central African Republic South Africa Botswana

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

2

1

1

0

3

1

4

2

1

0

1

2

2

3

2

0

2

0

2

2

2

2

0

1

1

1

3

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

2

2

0

0

5

2

6

2

1

1

0

4

3

4

2

0

1

1

3

5

1

2

0

0

2

2

4

0

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

2

1

1

0

4

2

4

2

1

0

1

2

3

3

2

0

2

0

3

3

2

2

0

1

1

2

3

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

2

1

1

0

2

0

4

2

1

0

1

7

1

3

2

1

0

1

1

2

3

2

0

1

1

0

7

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

2

1

1

0

1

0

4

2

1

1

0

1

0

4

2

0

1

1

0

1

1

2

0

1

1

0

1

1

GROUP B Team Tunisia Sierra Leone Equatorial Guinea Cape Verde Islands

GROUP C Team Côte d'Ivoire Tanzania Morocco Gambia

GROUP D Team Sudan Ghana Zambia Lesotho

GROUP E Team Congo Gabon Burkina Faso Niger

CAF standings - A to E Send us your comments to: - info@panacheoccasions.com

GROUP F Team

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

Nigeria

2

1

1

0

2

1

4

Namibia

2

1

0

1

1

1

3

Malawi

2

0

2

0

1

1

2

Kenya

2

0

1

1

0

1

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

Egypt

2

2

0

0

5

2

6

Guinea

2

1

0

1

3

3

3

Zimbabwe

2

0

1

1

0

1

1

Mozambique

2

0

1

1

0

2

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

Benin

2

1

1

0

2

1

4

Algeria

2

1

0

1

5

2

3

Mali

2

1

0

1

2

2

3

Rwanda

2

0

1

1

1

5

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

Libya

2

1

1

0

3

2

4

Congo DR

2

1

0

1

2

1

3

Cameroon

2

1

0

1

2

2

3

Togo

2

0

1

1

1

3

1

GROUP G Team

GROUP H Team

Senegal (Group J) Senegal made quite the splash when they qualified for the 2002 World Cup in Korea/ Japan and stormed into the quarter finals, but have since gone quiet. Now, with players such as Newcastle duo Papiss Cisse and Demba Ba leading the line, Senegal look like re-emerging as an African powerhouse once again. The pair have shown deadly goal-scoring ability, which is key to any team. They have started round 2 with a win and a draw, enough to put them top of their group. They will be confident of progressing from a group containing Uganda, Angola and Liberia, but they cannot be complacent, as Angola did qualify for the 2006 tournament.

Nigeria (Group F)

GROUP I Team

GROUP J Team

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

Senegal

2

1

1

0

4

2

4

Uganda

2

0

2

0

2

2

2

Angola

2

0

2

0

1

1

2

Liberia

2

0

1

1

1

3

1

CAF standings - F to J

Nigeria used to be one of the premier football nations in Africa, but they have suffered a slump since the retirements of star players such as Nwankwo Kanu, and 2009’s false age scandal, in which 15 of their 38 U17 players were discovered to be over-age, further depleted the Super Eagles’ squad options and raised doubts about their senior players. This has led to a regeneration of their infrastructure, and

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they now find themselves with a young squad of mostly home-based players. 21-yearold Chelsea winger Victor Moses now represents their most notable foreign based player, and the youngster has plenty to offer, as he has already shown in spells at Crystal Palace and Wigan. He has 5 senior caps to his name. Nigeria will expect no less than a comfortable qualification from their fairly tame group, and could make a splash in Rio if they continue this positive development.

Egypt (Group G) Egypt is the most successful team ever in both the Africa and Arab Cup of Nations, but has not qualified for the World Cup since 1990.

Since their unsuccessful 2010 campaign, underperforming stars such as Mido have been dropped in favour of younger talents like Basel striker Mohamed Salah, who at 20 years old already has 15 caps and 9 goals to his name. Egypt have won two out of two so far (Tunisia is the only other team that can claim this), but there has been no domestic football in the country since 73 people were killed and more than 1000 injured in a riot at a game between Port Said and Al-Ahly in January. This means that all the Pharoah’s home-based players are short of match practice, and this will severely threaten their international form.

Ghana (Group D) The Black Stars are currently considered the strongest team in Africa, with star players scattered around the top leagues in Europe, including Sulley Muntari (AC Milan, Italy), Andre and Jordan Ayew (Marseille, France), Emmannuel Frimpong (Arsenal, England), Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus, Italy), Christian Atsu (FC Porto, Portugal) and Anthony Annan (Osasuna, Spain). In 2010, they were cruelly

denied a place in the semi-finals by the cheating hand of Luis Suarez, but they have continued to look strong since, despite the baffling international retirement of 25-yearold midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng, who apparently preferred to concentrate on his club career at AC Milan. As things stand, they represent the continent’s best hope of success in 2014.

Zambia (Group D) Africa Cup of Nations champions Zambia will be looking to make the group interesting for Ghana, and have already beaten the Black Stars 1-0 to peg back their qualification march. Zambia’s Cup of Nations victory was a complete shock, and they took down some of the continent’s biggest teams on their way to the trophy, showing they have an ability to outperform their label as underdogs. Having never qualified for the World Cup, they resemble the Ghana team of six years ago, when the Black Stars qualified for Germany 2006 as rookies and made it to the second round, beating the Czech Republic along the way. With all bar three of their senior squad plying their club trade in Africa, Zambia are the true African bet for 2014. Do not write them off.

Ivory Coast (Group C) On paper, the Elephants are an incredibly strong outfit, with world stars such as Dider Drogba and the Toure brothers at their disposal, but they are perennial underachievers. They have failed to make any kind of impact on either of their World Cup appearances in 2006 and 2010. This could be put down to a mentality which puts too much focus on stars like Drogba. At 34, the former Chelsea striker has moved to Shanghai for a final bumper paycheck, and although he

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will be 36 by the time Brazil 2014 rolls around, he has shown this year that that he still has plenty to offer. If the team can strike a balance that takes pressure off the big man, and can get Manchester City star Yaya Toure ticking in midfield, they may be one to watch. Morocco will be the biggest threat to their qualification from Group C. South Africa (Group A) South Africa qualified for 2010 as hosts, and despite a sterling effort which saw them outperform Mexico and France, they ultimately came up short. However, despite obviously being of a lower standard than the teams in that group, they were the only other African side apart from Ghana that looked impressive, with players like Siphwe Tshabalala standing out. His goal against Mexico will live long in the memories of football fans everywhere.

They have made a slow start, to their 2014 qualifying, taking 2 draws from a relatively weak group. South Africa’s performance in 2010, both on and off the pitch, has won them favour the world over, and many outside of the country will be rooting for them to make it to Brazil. Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar will lead them in their charge as they look to turn around their slow start.

GROUP A Team Guatemala USA Jamaica Antigua and Barbuda

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

4 4 4

2 2 2

1 1 1

1 1 1

6 6 4

4 4 3

7 7 7

4

0

1

3

2

7

1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

4 4 4 4

4 1 1 0

0 2 1 1

0 1 2 3

8 8 6 5

2 8 5 12

12 5 4 1

MP

W

D

L

GF

GA

Pts

4 4 4 4

3 2 2 0

0 1 1 0

1 1 1 4

5 4 2 0

1 2 2 6

9 7 7 0

GROUP B Team Mexico El Salvador Costa Rica Guyana

GROUP C Team Panama Honduras Canada Cuba

CONCACAF qualifying standings

Meanwhile, in North America, the qualifying process has reached it’s third round, where the 12 remaining teams are sorted into 3 groups.

The top two teams form these groups will go forward to the ‘hexagonal’ league stage, where they will all play each other home and away.

The top 3 teams from this stage will qualify for 2014, while the fourth place team enters a play-off against a team from South America.

The last Caribbean team to qualify for the World Cup was Trinidad and Tobago in 2006, but the Soca Warriors have already gone out of the qualifying process at Round 2, and with Antigua and Barbuda and Cuba languishing at the bottom of their groups, Jamaica are now the region’s only hope of representation in Brazil.

When it comes to squad selection, the Reggae Boyz have the advantage of a sprawling diaspora which they can call upon to fill gaps in their team, and they have been making use of this ability this year, as busy as most club teams in the transfer window. Since the beginning of this year, Theodore Whitmore has added Motherwell’s Chris Humphrey, Watford’s Nyron Nosworthy, Reading’s Adrian Mariappa and Jobi McAnuff, and Bristol City’s Marvin Elliott to his squad, and he is currently chasing the services of Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling, who has represented England at all youth levels.

Along with the influx of foreign-born talent, the native players are also giving fans plenty to be optimistic about. Midfield powerhouse Rodolph Austin this year sealed a move to Leeds United, while the American MLS counts several of its biggest stars as Jamaicans.

Vancouver Whitecaps striker Darren Mattocks has made such a splash that he has been chosen as the cover star for the North American version of this year’s installment in the best-selling FIFA video game series.

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While most of the stars are currently plying their trade abroad, Red Stripe’s investment in the Jamaican Premier League can only bode well for the long-term development of Jamaican football.

In 1998, when Jamaica last qualified for the World Cup, manager Rene Simoes called in a similar influx of foreign-born stars, and the team’s inability to gel before the tournament was largely put down to this.

However, the difference now is that the players are being brought in at the start of the qualifying process rather than the end, so they have time to gel, and this has already paid off, with the Reggae Boyz recently recording their first ever victory over the USA, beating them 2-1 in Kingston.

Theodore Whitmore was infamously ill disciplined as a player, but he has obviously learned from his experience as he has imposed strict discipline on the team as a manager that has yielded positive results on the performances.

Jamaica lost the return fixture against the USA in Colorado, leaving Group A tied at the top between three teams. But with all the massive strides taken by the country since their disappointing 2010 qualifying campaign, they are a serious contender for a place in Brazil.

If they beat Antigua and Barbuda and Guatemla in October, and make it to the hexagonal round, there will be little to stop them going all the way. For the first time in nearly 14 years, Jamaicans have genuine hope of getting to a World Cup.

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The current FIFA World Cup Trophy in the Royal Spanish Football Federation's Museum, in Las Rozas (Madrid). This has been awarded to the World Cup champions since 1974

T

he World Cup is a gold trophy that is awarded to the winners of the FIFA World Cup association football tournament.

Since the advent of the World Cup in 1930, two trophies have represented victory: the Jules Rimet Trophy from 1930 to 1970, and the FIFA World Cup Trophy from 1974 to the present day.

The trophy, originally named Victory, but later renamed in honour of former FIFA president Jules Rimet, was made of gold plated sterling silver and lapis lazuli and depicted Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. Brazil won the trophy outright in 1970, prompting the commissioning of a replacement. The Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen in 1983 and never recovered.

The subsequent trophy, called “FIFA World Cup Trophy”, was introduced in 1974. Made of 18 carat gold with a malachite base, it depicts two human figures holding up the Earth. The current holder of the trophy is Spain, winner of the 2010 World Cup From Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia

Hamilton takes a punt on a team that might be competitive in two Years’ time.

Original article published in The Voice Newspaper on Thursday 4th October 2012

L

By John Portch EWIS HAMILTON’S departure from McLaren was not unexpected but his destination certainly was.

In signing a three-year-deal worth £15m a year with Mercedes from next season the 27-year-old has swerved away from the serial winners of Red Bull and Ferrari to take a punt on a team that might be competitive in two years’ time.

The mediocre Silver Arrows, who lag behind in the drivers’ and constructors’ championships, hope to benefit from new chassis and engine rules to be introduced for the 2014 season.

Yet it is no more than a hope and it is within this context that many sceptics believe that the driving force behind Hamilton’s switch is his improved salary and greater freedom to obtain personal sponsorships and endorsements.

This commercial imperative is said to stem from his management team at Simon Fuller’s XIX Entertainment – who are rumoured to have rebuffed in their approaches to serial winners Ferrari and Red Bull – and the Stevenage driver’s growing penchant for the celebrity lifestyle.

His commitment was called into question hours after his disappointing eighth-place finish at the British GP in July when Hamilton was spotted at exclusive London nightclubs with pop star Rihanna, rapper J Cole, and a host of revellers. A case of a young man letting off steam, perhaps, but there would be a greater tolerance if Hamilton were continuously delivering results on the track.

F1 tycoon Bernie Ecclestone has labelled Hamilton’s lifestyle a ‘disaster’. “I think he just

fell into a lot of people that I think weren’t good for him,” he said earlier this year. “When his dad was looking after him obviously it didn’t suit Lewis. I think he didn’t appreciate how much help his dad was.”

The notion that Hamilton’s attitude altered the moment in 2010 when he replaced his father Anthony as manager with Fuller, who also operates on behalf of the Spice Girls and David Beckham, has gathered pace as McLaren and Hamilton continue to stutter.

This year’s championship is a forlorn hope and much has been made in official channels of Hamilton seeking a ‘fresh challenge’.Hamilton knows that the only way to refute the disparaging claims is to succeed at McLaren and add to his solitary world title.

Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn has a track record of success, having helped build the Ferrari dynasty in the early 2000s, and Hamilton has been long familiar with Mercedes engines at McLaren.

The move is problematic in racing terms and Hamilton will need to succeed where champions Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve, who departed multiple champions Williams for uncompetitive teams in the 1990s, failed.

The most gifted and exciting racer in F1 has taken a risk that will see him lauded alongside Michael Schumacher, the man he is to replace at Mercedes, as an all-time great if he can propel the team to glory. Fail and he will be dismissed as the latest talent to place ego and avarice above sporting achievement.

The fierce competitor in Hamilton will relish the challenge.

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