She vol 72

EXPERT TIPS TO The only magazine dedicated to the Caribbean Woman

SAINT LUCIA’S

FIRST LADY OF HEART

RAQUEL DUBOULAY CHASTANET

9 WAYS

LIVEN UP YOUR LOCKS

CROWD FUNDING

THE NEW WAY TO PAY FOR TUITION

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DOMINICAN DANCER SADE BULLY’S JOURNEY TO FREEDOM

VOL 72, 2017

US $5.99

SPRING STYLE FLORAL, SWIMWEAR, AND SO MUCH MORE…

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MAE SABBAGH WAYNE EDITOR Kayra Williams

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Linda Andrew

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kenty Lichtenberg • Michele-Lauren Hackshaw Germaine Waters • Andra Allen-Joseph • Esther Austin Nicole Mc Donald • Dr. Tanya Destang-Beaubrun • Candy Nicholas Vernette Eugene • Eliza Francis-Victor • Claudia Eleibox • Richard Young

FASHION & BEAUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Mae Wayne • BEAUTY CONSULTANT: Andra Allen-Joseph HAIR CONSULTANT: Emile Williams • Richard Young (Fashion Direction)

PHOTOGRAPHY (Cover) RICK WAYNE • Ziggy Denheart • Maxin Browne

Sean Drakes • Bill Mortley • Germaine Waters • Stephen Doobal Jaryd Niles Morris • V8 Production • Mishaél Fabien •

PRODUCTION COLOUR MANAGEMENT: Dalan James

ADVERTISING & MARKETING MANAGER Vanessa Julien

vanessa.j@stluciastar.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Christian Wayne

christian.w@stluciastar.com

BARBADOS OFFICE Averil Byer Mobile: 246-266-3641 • Office: 246-421-9035 • Skype: averilbyer • averil@aplomb360.com • www.aplomb360.com

EDITOR’S DESK: PLEASE SEND SUBMISSIONS OR ENQUIRIES TO editor@shecaribbean.com

PUBLISHER’S DESK publisher@stluciastar.com

SHE Caribbean is printed & published by Star Publishing Co Ltd on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publishers. STAR Publishing Co Ltd, Rodney Bay Industrial Estate, Massade, Gros Islet. PO Box 1146, Castries, St Lucia, W. I. Tel: (758) 450-7827 Fax: (758) 450-8694 www.stluciastar.com, www.shecaribbean.com

2 S H E C A R I B B E A N . C OM / VOL 72

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SHE CARIBBEAN Contents

RELATIONSHIPS

ISSUE 72, 2017

30

STARTING OUT 6

8

PROFILES

PUBLISHER’S & EDITOR’S LETTER Spring-time Renewal

52 56

CALLALOU Caribbean art, culture and personalities

14 16

BOSS LADIES Sade Bully Jeanelle Scheper

ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION 10

SADIE LOVE Either you’re first or you’re nowhere!

64

FASHION NOTEBOOK The latest industry news and views

32

TRENDS Florals Swimwear

THE INDUSTRY’S BEST Christelle Blanche Nikianna Williams Leigh Phillips

REGULARS

14

32

SAGA BOY Sartorial Beau; Social butterfly; Son of a bitch

24

FINANCE 9 ways to build a year of financial abundance

58

AMPHITRITE Goddess of the Sea

66

HAIR & BEAUTY

MOM TO MOM Painting, Drama, Swimming, Track?

68

HOME STYLE Tidying up!

40

INSIDE BEAUTY Glitz, Glam, DAZZLE & Beauty Products

70

SUN TEMPLE FOOD Healthy recipes for life

42

NOVALASH Delivering happiness one lash at the time!

44

HAIR NEWS Heat without the damage

50

44

72

BODY SHOP Health and fitness news

FEATURES

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TRAVEL

HEALTH

18

COVER STORY: RAQUEL DUBOULAYCASTANET St. Lucia’s first lady

26

REPORTAGE Paying for tuition the crowd funding way

48

REAL LIFE Plus Size The horse whisperer

TRAVEL LITE Martinique: Paris of the Caribbean

40

ON THE COVER

52

PHOTOGRAPHER Rick Wayne MODEL Raquel Duboulay-Chastanet FURNITURE Inside Out, St. Lucia HAIR & MAKE-UP Emile @ Phaze 1 MAKEUP Andra Allen-Joseph JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES Harry Edward, Earrings & Necklace: Breuning, Ring: Breuning Point Seraphine St. Lucia LOCATION Star Studio, St. Lucia

BARONESS

A KNOWS WHAT SHE WANTS

THE BEST

AND I CHOOSE BARON FOODS PRODUCTS Baron Foods proudly commends the charitable endeavours of Mrs Racquel DuBoulay Chastanet, First Lady of Saint Lucia BARON FOODS ALWAYS A WINNER: 2016 EXPORTER OF THE YEAR AWARD ST.LUCIA BUSINESS AWARDS, 2016 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD GRENADA, 2015 AND 2014 INTERNATIONAL TASTE & QUALITY INSTITUTE (ITQI) BRUSSELS.

WWW.BARONFOODSLTD.COM SAINT LUCIA

GRENADA

EMAIL: INFO@BARONFOODSLTD.COM

GUYANA

TRINIDAD.

Publisher’s Page throughout and outside our region, regardless of age or status. Oh, but too often politics determine our attitude toward our most dedicated citizens, women and men.

Her husband introduced me to Raquel. I do not recall whether that was before he was tourism minister in the 2006 Compton administration.

She was as now beautifully dressed, her sense of fashion obvious. I learned she was a strong supporter of the arts.

I have since gotten to know her fairy well, enough to call her a friend.

As I write I am also in the midst of funeral preparations for Sir Derek Walcott. I, like thousands the world over, am saddened at the passing of this great man, who also happened to be Saint Lucian, who spent much of ecently someone from whom I his working life writing about Saint expected better actually Lucia. What a privilege to have had the questioned why I seemed to be opportunity to know him as a special “giving the human being. Derek Chastanets so much was not only a close support.” I had earlier friend to me and revealed to her our decision my family, he was to place the prime minister’s always supportive wife Raquel on the cover of our efforts. He of our latest edition paid us the special of SHE Caribbean. My privilege of allowing friend-turned-inquisitor us to participate in evidently had forgotten the the arranging of his former prime minister’s final book launch daughter Michelle had (Morning, Paramin). in 1999 decorated the I cannot find the With my genius friend Sir Derek Walcott front page of Volume 5 of words to express this magazine. As for our reasons for placing how I feel at his passing. I will miss Michelle on our front page, they coincide with him for so many things, his wicked why we’ve done similarly with respect to the sense of humor and the unique sound current prime minister’s wife: both have been of his laugh among them. Thank successful in their own right, before Michelle’s goodness for his works. Through them father and Raquel’s husband became prime Sir Derek Walcott, our Nobel winner, ministers. Both are beautiful women. Both lead will be forever with us. On behalf of exemplary lives. None of which is to suggest the SHE family I offer Sigrid and the their close relationship with the leaders of rest of Derek’s family our sincerest our nation escaped us. By the way, SHE has condolences. May he rest in peace. also prominently featured Lady Janice, wife of deceased prime minister Sir John Compton and his two daughters on our Vol 67, 2015 cover.

Happy Reading It turns out that the last mentioned PM’s widow has much in common with Raquel DuBoulay-Chastanet: both are big-hearted, kind and humble, always ready to assist our more deprived citizens—each her own woman.

And lest we forget, SHE Caribbean was created MAE WAYNE specifically for the promotion of their kind Publisher mae.w@stluciastar.com of woman, worthy of emulation by our sisters

FAREWELL

R

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SPRING MAKES EVERYTHING NEW Our heads were spinning this season with the seeming impossibility of selecting just one cover girl! The Caribbean is filled with so many phenomenally beautiful women, in spirit and in character, with features dipped in varied pots of heritage, all of which help seal a package of perfection. Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder, and this issue features strong, prepossessing women of the islands, all with stories of courage, survival, love and healing to share. This issue will make your laugh, it may even make you cry, but we promise you’ll have more than one reason to smile as you come with us on a journey of renewal, hope and faith. This edition will take you behind the scenes with some of the people who help bring this publication together, including SHE Beauty Consultant Andra Dawn. You’ll also get to meet one of our newest junior writers, Michele Hackshaw, just back from an amazing Martinique expedition that she couldn’t wait to share. And horse whisperers! As usual, we tackled every aspect of life for the Caribbean woman, and chose the woman most worthy of gracing our Spring cover, Mrs Raquel DuBolayChastanet, wife of Saint Lucian Prime Minister Allen Chastanet. You won’t want to miss what she has to say about life as a Caribbean 'First Lady'! We wish you a wholesome Spring, that succeeds in its mission to make everything gleaming and new in your life.

Enjoy!

Kayra Williams Editor

Duty Free Caribbean – Where it’s always seriously fun shopping!

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BE A TURTLE WARRIOR! Photos Clockwise: Turtle Warrior Perseverance Bracelets; Turtle Warriors Reia Sandy Rohna; Caribbean Brights Bracelet

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Aunt Jackie in Real Life Dwan Vine White understands the emotional connection between women of colour and their hair.

More precisely, she’s researched that relationship for nearly 14 years. Among her most recent achievements, in 2012, White conceptualized, created and developed Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils, one of the fastest growing brands for natural hair in the U.S., Europe, West Africa, South Africa, and the Caribbean. “There are lots of products on the market that overpromise and under deliver,” White said. “I’ve been fully dedicated to making sure that high quality, affordable products, that won’t disappoint, are available to every woman and girl who wants to embrace her natural texture.” In addition to Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils, White is credited with creating brands that include: Kids Organics, Africa’s Best Textures, Texture My Way, Argan Smooth, Ultimate Organics, Men’s Texture My Way, Thermal Radiance, and Aunt Jackie’s Girls. When asked about her approach to creating brands that get noticed, White noted, “Social media, E-commerce and the Millennial mindset have considerably changed the game when it comes to how brands present themselves. A brand has to authentically stand for something that is part of the user’s value proposition in order for them to bond with it and become an ambassador. Also, strategically crafting the consumer journey is essential to a brand’s success.” She further explained that combining newer tactics such as mobile marketing and social media livestreaming with more traditional, experiential marketing, like sampling products & consulting at consumer events, generates multiple touch points for consumers to engage with the brands and products she creates.

“No matter the platform, every touch point should guide the consumer to specific call to action.”

T

he majestic leather back turtle is the largest of all sea turtles.

Each year hundreds of these endangered creatures travel incredible distances to nest in the lively, beachside village of Matura, Trinidad & Tobago where the community has passionately protected them for 25 years. Discarded glass bottles are cleared from Matura’s turtle-nesting beach and transformed into recycled glass beads to make collectible Turtle Warrior bracelets and other jewellery. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans from the community and completed with a hand-carved coconut turtle charm.

The name honours the Turtle Warriors from the community of Maturabut to creators it means so much more. “Being a Turtle Warrior is an attitude, an approach to life that is passionate and focused, filled with integrity, perseverance and compassion. Turtle Warriors never give up. They live life to the fullest, appreciate the beauty in the world around them and believe unwaveringly in the power of

DWAN VINE WHITE

each human being to create positive change.”

All the money raised through the sale of Turtle Warrior Bracelets goes directly back into the project and towards sea turtle conservation efforts.

Support the cause. Become a turtle warrior today! Find more information at www.facebook. com/turtlewarriortt.

Papa King’s Liming Spot Leonie Trubshoe tells a story of meeting the man she believed was the love of her live while on a cruise. The dream of her restaurant, Papa King's had been his, and it thrilled her to no end to not only be able to create it for him, but that she’d found a soul mate. Her honey was from Saint Lucia, and she spent hours researching every aspect of the island, from its history to its cuisine, the culture, and its brewing methods.

“I wanted an authentic reproduction that would please the most critical Caribbean person and introduce Australians to the island,” Leonie told SHE. After a process of securing a location, and a loan, all the while in constant communication with her partner, construction began. No expense was spared and no rock left unturned when it came to sourcing contacts for Caribbean produce.

The colour scheme of Saint Lucia’s flag – blue, yellow, black and white featured throughout.

Her Saint Lucian beau was to be the chef, with responsibility for sourcing the music, while she would take care of everything else. An opening date of December 9 was set, but on November 18, three weeks before they were due to open, all communication stopped between the couple. In a series of shocking revelations, she learnt that the relationship she’d invested all of her time, energy, finances and love into had been a lie. Weeks before her opening she had no chef, no music and

no partner, a building still under construction and none of his promised input of funds for finishing.

“I needed to do all the tasks of two people, while my heart was breaking,” she said.

It was through adversity that she learned the power and love of the Caribbean and Creole communities. Though in an uncertain place, things continued to progress. An interview for a bar manager yielded the most amazing Mauritian GM; sourcing hot chilli sauces introduced her to an incredible Jamaican woman who in turn led her to people who assisted in finding a chef and musicians. A Jamaican DJ she met walking her dog on the beach became a fixture of the restaurant, while the St Lucian vice-president of the Caribbean Association stepped in and helped with recipe advice and taste-testing. The Association’s president promoted the restaurant widely throughout the community.

“I met the amazing Olivia who provided me with moral support, new strands of music, her taste buds and even her voice for our advertising.

When opening night came, Olivia took photographs and sent them back to Saint Lucia to show friends and family. As a result, I received an email from the First Lady – Raquel du Boulay– and then a beautiful photograph I now have mounted for all to see.”

Today the love and support for Papa King’s and the woman behind the restaurant keeps flowing.

Reggae is a Friday night ritual now with all ages dancing to those rhythms, while Saturday features music from other parts of the Caribbean, from Cuban beats to African jive. Sunday afternoons are

chilled vibes with international jazz performers.

Their menu celebrates Caribbean cuisine and includes salt fish and green banana, jerk chicken, Accra cakes, Jamaican curries, coco bread, a range of salads and Caribbean spare ribs amongst others. Black cake has become a favourite dessert, along with banana bread, coconut pudding and juicy mango tossed in rum.

St Lucia Distillers 1931, Admiral Rodney and Chairman’s Reserve rums – including the Forgotten Casks – have become favourites of the Fremantle rum connoisseurs and a local boutique brewery even brews their signature Papa King’s pilsner beer.

“It was important to me, after spending an extended period abroad, that whatever was created became a haven for all – male or female, gay or straight, black, white, brown or yellow, religious or not, from two years to 92 years of age and beyond – an escape from bigotry, loneliness and age.”And that is precisely what Papa King’s is today!

Photos Clockwise: Inside Papa King’s after the renovation; Support from the local Caribbean community; Papa King’s beer boutique brewery; Sous chef Eunice from Congo

The SHE Caribbean team with volunteers and specially invited guests at the inaugural SHE Caribbean Dress a Girl Glam Party.

SHE CARIBBEAN HOSTS

DRESS A GIRL GLAM PARTY

Twenty-five young ladies partied the day away at the first edition of the SHE Caribbean Dress a Girl Glam Party hosted in Saint Lucia. The girls hailed from various schools on the island. As part of the event, they each received a handmade dress made especially for them. After much eating, drinking and horsing around, the girls modeled their dresses in front of an audience that included Raquel DuBoulay- Chastanet, wife of Saint Lucian Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, and then it was time for a pep talk from guest speaker Dr Tanya Breubrun that served as a reminder to all the girls of just how valued and appreciated they truly are! The dresses for the occasion were donated as part of the Dress a Girl Around the World campaign, a program facilitated by Hope 4 Women International.

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FashionNotebook Bahamian Designer

FOR FASHION'S FINEST AT LFW

B

ahamian luxury handbag designer Anya showcased her brand Willique at Fashion’s Finest during London Fashion Week. In its seventh year, Fashion’s Finest is one of the biggest and most successful independent off-schedule events that coincides with London Fashion Week. As a leading international platform for emerging designers, the event draws press, buyers and industry figures – eager to see fresh, creative talent and trends.

Willique had the opportunity to showcase the brand’s range of luxury and bespoke leather bags and accessories in Fashion’s Finest exhibition space, where the designer received positive feedback from media, fashion bloggers and the public alike. It was also the first time that the new SS17 addition to the ethically and sustainably produced Conscious Collection was seen.

London based designer Anya Willique was born and raised in both the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, and her designs often reference her Caribbean heritage and memories from the island. Only established for a year, Willique has already gained the attention and support of The Royal Prince’s Trust. Anya’s bags have also been gifted to international singer Laura Mvula and the founder of the Mobo Awards Kanya King.

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JACQUELINE HALSTEAD DESIGNS

Malaville Dolls HERE TO STAY! Maisha, Mala, Malina and Mhina. They’re the faces taking over toy stores the world over, and the plaything little girls, and grown women alike can’t do without. Mala Bryan, President of Malaville and creator of The Malaville Debut Collection describes Malaville as “a place of stunning beauty, where everyone is welcome to play… a place where everything is possible and dreams come true.”

The Mala Ville dolls, with their beautiful shades of brown skin and envious curls, are intended by creators to promote diversity. In the words of Bryan: “I personally am a doll collector and felt the need to create something I felt was missing in my collection and also something I felt other doll collectors and lovers (both adults and children) would love to add to their collection.

The dolls are frequently spotted on excursions around the world, dawning fashionable attire, and rocking their signature afros. Creators say the debut collection is only the beginning, and have promised more great things to come from Mala Ville!

A passion for painting and jewellery making come together with Jacqueline Halstead’s creations.

Though the designer didn’t get in touch with her artistic side until later in life, at 39, she says it was her mother Violet who exposed her to a life of style. Since then she hasn’t turned back, and now boasts a collection of paintings and jewellery that are must haves for any Caribbean fashionista. The designer’s “simple but beautiful” jewellery pieces are made of signature leather cord, natural and organic beads, and other assorted material. She says her newest collection, Faith jewellery, is based on her connection with God, and hopes it will help inspire women to keep walking in faith, no matter the obstacle. Visit: www.jhalstead.ca for more.

Photos by: Roo Castro

TRINIDADIAN DESIGNER ROCKS PHILLY FASHION WEEK Seven days of fashion showcases hit the runway this year for Philly Fashion Week, and in the spotlight was none other than The Butterfly Effect, a collection by Trinidadian designer Shahedah Williams. Shahedah’s swimwear and resort 17 collection is inspired by her Caribbean background, and notably, she designs all the captivating prints herself! Find out more on www.shahedahtextiles.com.

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Kittisha Blazing the International Fashion Scene

Photo by: Orlando Romain

Grenadian model Kittisha Doyle, also the winner of Caribbean’s Next Top Model, Season Two (featured on the cover of our Fall, 2016 edition) has been gracing international runways in recent months. The Mint Management model was spotted at New York Fashion Week, wearing creations by New York based designer Bibhu Mohapatra, Peruvian designer Sumy Kujon, and Russian designer Katya Leonovich!

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Trends Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

HIGH HOPES (Alexander Mcqueen) (Mary-Katrantzou)

Photo by: V8 Production Model: Marissa Gabriel Makeup and Styling: Marisa Castara

BLOOMS FOR DAYS

We know, we know: cliché. Or at least wearing floral can feel that way if you don’t know what you’re doing. This season’s trends on the runways of shows like London Fashion Week offered a breath of fresh air, and some perfect inspiration, as floral bloomed in the most unexpected of ways. From flirty jumpsuits, tiered skirts, and variations of dark and light print, floral is definitely here to stay!

GARDEN PARTY (Jessica Simpson)

MISS DAINTY (Betsey Johnson)

DRESSED DOWN (Vans)

(Mulberry)

PLAYING IT SAFE (Steve Madden)

RACK CHECK

Go easy on the floral pattern mixing, a little goes a long way. As for shoes… well, a woman can never have enough of those!

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Trends

THE MISIMBEACHBABE Out of Jamaica by designer Simone Michelle Neilson, this brand is truly one for the mermaids. All of the brand’s bottoms are cheeky, offering just the right amount of skin and coverage. Many pieces are reversible allowing you to have two bikinis in one. The brand also offers whimsical cover-ups in the event that you feel like adding a touch of elegance to pure perfection! (www.misimbeachbabe.com, @misimbeachbabe on Instagram)

NOT TOO HOT TO TROT

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With the scorching months of summer on the way and Easter weekend arriving even sooner, we know there are lots of days and weekends coming up that will be spent lounging on the beach or pool side. To keep you trendy and fashionable on your days spent out in paradise; we decided to share a few Caribbean swimwear brands we love. By Michelle Ford

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CHANDRA MAHARAJ

JAEJOLLY Jaejolly is a colourful swimwear brand based in Jamaica whose swimwear makes you think of lazy days in paradise; which is exactly where you should sport these pieces and what your day should be like in them. You’re bound to stand out wherever you choose to wear one. Designer Janel shows true talent in combining colours one wouldn’t typically think of putting together, and she pairs daring patterns with harmony and precision. Her vibrant collections have drawn inspiration from life in the ocean, or in the Kingdom of Morocco, which you can definitely tell from the respective pieces. (@jaejolly on Instagram).

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This swim line is inspired and created

by Brazilian born designer Chandra Maharaj who was raised in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago. You will definitely want to spend the day basking in the sun with a tropical cocktail in hand if you choose to don one of these pieces. The brand also carries a maxi dress that is aptly named the Goddess Dress, because you will both look and feel like a goddess in one. It is perfect for whatever after dark beach occasion your heart desires. (www.chandramaharajdesigns.com, @chandramaharaj on Instagram).

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AFAM CONCEPT, INC. CHICAGO, IL 60629 (800)262-2326 Watford WD24 7GN, UK MADE IN USA Visit us at www.vitalepro.com

CoverStory GET THE FIRST LADY LOOK Black & white blouse and trousers by Kuumba Design kuumbadesigns@gmail.com Studded armchair from Inside Out, Massade Gros Islet, St. Lucia www.insideoutslu.com Jewelry & Accessories Harry Edwards Earrings: John Hardy Dot Collection Ring: John Hardy Bamboo Collection (Pointe Seraphine St. Lucia) www.harryedwardsjewelers.com Makeup by Andra Allen-Joseph for Planet Stiletto Beauty www.facebook.com/ planetstiletto/ Hair by Emile at Phaze One Hair Salon Shot at Star Studio, Saint Lucia www.stluciastar.com

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I AM A WIFE, A MOTHER, A LAWYER, A SISTER, A DAUGHTER, A FRIEND. I AM A PROUD SAINT LUCIAN. MOST OF THE TIME I AM ALL OF THAT—AT ONCE!

Has Raquel DuBulay-Chastanet finally embraced life in the public eye?

S

he is as forthcoming as they come. At the smallest provocation, she will tell you that despite being the spouse of her country’s prime minister she has never enjoyed politics. While in the uninformed eye she may appear to be enjoying her new role as the nation’s first lady, things are never quite as they seem. The road to her husband’s current position had too often been anything but pretty. When I asked how it felt to be the center of attraction wherever she goes, whether or not unaccompanied, all she would say was that she was working at getting used to it. Our first interview for this feature took place at an accommodating city restaurant; the meeting turned out to be a total bust.

A short time earlier Raquel DuBoulay-Chastanet, her husband Allen and their son Braden had attended the state-funeral ceremony of Lady Clarke, wife of Saint Lucia’s first governor general and mother of Lady Janice, wife of Sir John Compton who had passed away a little over a year after coming out of retirement in poor health to win for the United Workers Party the 2006 general elections. Raquel had carefully reserved in advance an out of the way corner table where we might talk without too many distractions. But it wasn’t long before regular patrons were lining up to greet the prime minister and his wife, turning an envisaged tete a tete into a nightmare. In twenty minutes all I had recorded were half-finished sentences and false starts. The interjections continued even after the prime minister kissed his wife and son lightly on their cheeks and left to keep his own appointment with a small group several tables from our own. As if she’d read my mind, Raquel whispered: “He’s quite the romantic, you know. When I least expect it, he’ll call to say the sweetest thing or he’ll invite me out to quiet lunch.” Of course, since last June such invitations have become few and far between.

Even before I had played back my recording of our interview I knew I had not come close to getting what I needed from Raquel. Also that my deadline for submitting

By Nicole McDonald Opener Photo by Rick Wayne

VO L 7 2 / S H ECA RIBBEA N .COM 19

this piece was upon me. Luckily Raquel also sensed our time together had not gone quite as expected. I didn’t have to call her.

She phoned to suggest another sit down; there were things she wanted to say that had not come up. Talk about relief. Several days later we sat together on the balcony of her Rodney Bay residence overlooking the water in circumstances far more conducive; a Saturday morning, the kids were still asleep. Her husband was attending an important meeting off-island. For me, absolutely heaven!

“Coconut water or kale smoothie?” I settled for the first, she for the smoothie. She tried to eat as healthy as possible, she said, and encouraged her husband to follow her lead. But the demands of his office too often made that difficult at best. Her face was make-up free. She seemed altogether relaxed in a simple tube dress. Before we got down to business she took several calls, the longest from a man with medical issues. Could she help? Raquel mouthed an apology to me as she gave the early morning caller her undivided attention.

And then we were off: “How would you describe your life today?”

I asked. She took another sip of the ghastly green, allegedly

parents whatever our little hearts desired. What we had was, as I say, a family that stuck together; that showered a lot of love on one another. We were encouraged, my brothers and sister, to play sports. Our parents kept us very active. We were always on the go.

We grew up with a strong sense of togetherness. But the life we lived, looking back, was relatively simple. Ours was never a life of luxury and privilege. We were never spoiled brats!”

Following graduation from St. Joseph’s Convent, Raquel turned her mind to her immediate future. She was not altogether unfamiliar with the world of work, having spent many summer vacations, if reluctantly, doing whatever was required of her at the family business or at Sandals. The latter involved particularly grueling eight-hour work schedules. She would go home for a couple hours, shower, change, then head back to do her evening shift at the hotel. If from a distance she had imagined hotel employment something of a paid vacation, she soon learned the hard truth. She recalled going home one afternoon “almost in a state of collapse”—which she says may account for her lasting respect for workers in the hospitality field. But while her interest in that industry remained undiminished she also loved journalism.

“I’m naturally curious about people,” she explained (as if already I hadn’t noticed!). “I like to know what makes things tick. I’m into details. From early school days I’d especially enjoyed reading good writing. So, when it came down to a possible career, for me it was either journalism or hospitality.”

Nevertheless she chose law, which proved more challenging than she had anticipated, “but I have no regrets.” In 1993 she enrolled at the University of Western Ontario, obtained a BA in Philosophy and Spanish before going in 1996 to the UK where she earned her Bachelor of Laws (Hons) at the University of Wolverhampton. The best part was that traveling to study gave her “the opportunity to spread my wings a little.” She worked for a while in Europe and in the U.S. before returning home, where she did a stint at the law chambers of Gordon, Gordon & Company. In 2003 she set up her own law firm with Michelle Anthony, daughter of the former prime minister Kenny Anthony, himself also a lawyer in private life.

Speaking of which: “I had known Allen most of my life, of course. But things really sparked while I still was working in Spain.

His mother Judy came to visit and invited me to a family gathering.

Actually it was Allen’s cousin who first showed an interest in me.

Meanwhile Allen was running around trying to persuade everyone to go out to this jazz bar when we were all bone tired. I decided to go along, but only because I felt sorry for him. As it turned out we spent the whole night listening to jazz and talking about life at home. After that, well, the rest is history.”

Their life together has always been full of surprises. Hear Raquel referencing her marriage: “My grandmother had just died and I was a mess. Allen had told me he would not have been able to make it home for the funeral; he was working with Air Jamaica. Imagine my surprise and the comfort it gave me when he showed up in time for the ceremony. I know it may sound to some a bit morbid, oh but for me it’s a beautiful, beautiful story: during the church ceremony he leaned over and whispered to me that he had promised my grandmother she would be there when he asked for my hand. We

“I CAN BE COUNTED ON TO SEE THE FUNNY SIDE OF THE MOST SERIOUS SITUATION. MY HUSBAND WOULD LIKELY DISAGREE, HOWEVER. BEING ABLE TO LAUGH AT YOURSELF IS A VERY SPECIAL GIFT.” health-promoting concoction in her glass. “Busy,” she said, “so busy, all the time. There’s so much going on.” Raquel grew up with her older brother and sister Richard and Karen, and her younger brother David in Castries, the island’s capital city. There were dozens of cousins always around; always something was going on at a relative’s house to which the whole family was invited. The DuBoulays had always been a close-knit family. “We all adored my grandmother and spent a lot of time at her house in Vieux Fort,” Raquel recalled. “I would say we had a fairly simple upbringing.”

In 1972 her father Dunstan and his brothers Tony, Leslie and Frank started DuBoulay’s Bottling Company to complement their father’s successful ice factory. “There’s the thinking in our part of the world that if you bear a well-known family name, and if your skin is of a certain color, then the life you live must be especially privileged. We were never close to the bread line, that is certainly true,” Raquel readily admitted, “but my family never lived the lifestyle of the rich and famous as so many imagined back in the day. It was never a case of my siblings and me getting from our

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shared that most intimate moment right there in church with my granny—if only in spirit.”

Twenty-four years and two kids later a giggling Raquel lets on that she is the family comedian. “I can be counted on to see the funny side of the most serious situation. My husband would likely disagree, however. Being able to laugh at yourself is a very special gift.” On the other hand her husband is by Raquel’s account always calm and measured. “If we are traveling and we hit some turbulence I immediately start to freak out,” she said. “Not Allen; he will gently hold my hand, or he’ll give me a certain reassuring look that instantly puts me at ease. He’s like that: once he’s made up his mind that something is worth doing, regardless of noisy naysayers, he’ll remain calm while he does what needs to be done.”

At last we acknowledged the elephant in the room. I ask her what it’s been like for Rhyan and Braden, suddenly thrusted into the jungle of local politics, always under severe public scrutiny.

“During the election campaign we tried to shield them as much as

possible,” said Raquel. “Their dad and I would have conversations with them about what was going on, all that stuff on TV, the wild allegations, the threats. But we always made a point of assuring them that win or lose life would go on; that we would remain as ever a strong family.”

She reminded me of how her husband first landed in politics.

“When Sir John calls, you don’t say no,” she said, recalling the time shortly after the 2006 elections when the prime minister invited Allen Chastanet to join his administration as tourism minister.

Years earlier her father had accepted a similar invitation from Sir John to serve as his Minister for Commerce. “I was away at school at the time,” she recalled. “I remember Daddy pretty much walked away from his private business for two years just because he felt it was the right thing to do.” She laughed, then with the unmistakable sound of reverence in her voice, repeated herself: “You just didn’t say no to Sir John.”

Still she had never contemplated a life at the heart of politics.

It was something she had never been in love with. The furthest thing from her mind was the idea of waking up one day to discover herself the wife of a politician. But gradually, over the past ten years especially, she began to suspect that was her destiny.

Whenever they traveled together people, overseas-based Saint Lucians especially, would tell them how they felt he could make the difference that was needed at home. They would say the young people needed inspiration. Raquel resisted, of course. But in her bones she knew the day was coming. And come it did, and there would be no turning back. She channeled the Tammy Wynette in her soul. She would do as would any loving wife: she chose to stand by her man. When what many had imagined a mission impossible actually materialized on June 6, 2016, despite all that had been thrown at her husband and his family before and during the campaign, Raquel was quite possibly the last person to grasp the enormity of what her husband had accomplished. Not only had he overcome impossible odds, he had also won— bigtime!

“Having finally accepted what had happened, I now started counting the ways our lives would abruptly change,” Raquel recalled. “I felt a kind of vicarious vindication. I was so happy for Allen after all he had been forced to suffer simply because he had acted on his dream of improving life in Saint Lucia. He is unbelievably dedicated to making our country a better place for all who live and work here. From our first date, what he talked about

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most were the things he considered wrong and unfair and what he might do to improve things. He was always so full of ideas, new concepts. He still talks and dreams as he had more than 25 years ago. The best part is he has never been afraid to walk the walk. His heart has always been in the right place.”

Meanwhile, although she shuns the political limelight as much as possible, Raquel is widely considered by opposing politicians

and friends alike, “Allen’s secret weapon.” With good reason. Well known for her fund-raising to benefit charity organizations, she reserves a particularly soft spot for the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, a spot she shares with her family. The old DuBoulay ice plant is located on the other side of police headquarters on Bridge Street, Castries.

“I’ve long been aware of the plight of the police and firefighters,” she told me. “So now I’ve decided to do something for them.” She established the “Make It Happen Foundation,” its mission being to raise money to pay for the basic necessities denied the force, for whatever reasons. Shortly before Christmas the foundation staged

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its first Annual Officers’ Ball and raised over $100,000. Thanks to the generosity of fellow Saint Lucians, police stations in Gros Islet, Laborie and Choiseul have undergone long overdue facelifts.

The firefighters, for their part, have received new equipment and other much needed supplies. As I write the foundation is turning its attention toward deprived women and young people in distress.

Encouraged by her successes, her husband recently invited Raquel to host a showcase for local designers in the interest of the Upton Gardens Girls’ Center. “In many ways,” she said, “I’m just coming up for air. My hope is that the foundation has a lasting impact on the lives of the nation’s less fortunate citizens, particularly the young and the elderly.”

She is especially concerned about the horror of violence against women, with all its terrible tentacles. It’ll come as no surprise that Raquel is a big fan of Michele Obama. Whenever frustration threatens, or when she’s feeling especially low, she said, “I think of her. She endured so much unfair criticism, both of herself and her family but always she managed to hold her head high and focused.

She is my first role model; she’s all a wife, mother and First Lady should be.” She empathizes with how Mrs Obama must feel when attacked on the basis of her color. Here some have referred to Allen and Raquel as Saint Lucia’s White First Family. Her reaction: “Our detractors know, as do we, that the Chastanets and the DuBoulays are Saint Lucian families. Case closed.”

She nevertheless is disappointed that in 2017 people are having “those conversations, still judging people’s fitness for office according to the color of their skin, not the content of their character.” She says she avoids social media as much as possible but sometimes well-intentioned people tell her what’s trending among her husband’s political detractors. She usually dismisses it all, insisting that only an insignificant small number of misguided people are behind the counterproductive campaign of jealousy and hate.

I wondered how she managed to balance her work as a lawyer and her duties as the wife of her country’s prime minister. “Many mornings I feel too tired to get out of bed,” she laughed. “But you do the best you can. You juggle things; you prioritize. There are no studies to prepare you for this role. No one to guide and instruct you as to what’s required of you. You just have to figure it out. I have an active law practice that requires me to be full-on when I am there. When I have to attend events I have to be fully present there as well.”

Girls’ nights out? “My support system has definitely changed,” she said. “It can be quite lonely at times, when you wish there was someone around who understands. Sometimes the only person who can fill that void is Allen. But the country’s work comes first and he’s not always available to his wife. It is not a conversation I want to have with my children. So I just deal with it. Life has changed and I have to go with the change. One has to be so careful what one says, and to whom. I have become much more guarded.

But I suppose that comes with the territory. The only time I can shut off is when I travel alone. I am naturally a fun person. I miss my earlier freedom. I am actively pursuing possibilities that will allow my children and me to have fun away from the omnipresent spotlight. They deserve that!” In the meantime Raquel is, as she says, taking life one day at a time. At the end of the day she “would like to look back satisfied that my husband accomplished what he set out to do for Saint Lucia and our people, proud and that I was at his side all the way, always doing the best I could.”

Finance Speak Differently

9 WAYS TO BUILD A YEAR OF FINANCIAL ABUNDANCE

Though financial success is associated with large sums of money, there is a lesser-known but powerful paradigm that empowers us as individuals to choose our own translation.

O

By Vernette Eugene

ne of my most profound moments was realizing that there is no single template or definition of financial success. While the norm and popular belief is that financial success is associated with large sums of money, there is a lesser-known but powerful paradigm that empowers us as individuals to choose our own translation. With this epiphany, I decided that true financial freedom and abundance was not merely having in excess but being immensely free from the anxiety and fear that money, or the lack of it, can create. To have financial abundance is to have true control of your life through your ability to choose how money influences your purpose and dreams. Here are some bold steps to begin inviting financial freedom and abundance into your life, whatever that may mean to you.

Start with Your Mind The first step in building financial abundance is to develop a wealth mindset. Start to challenge your previous attitudes and thoughts about money and wealth. Begin to believe that you deserve wealth, that it is easy to gain and that more of it is coming to you. Begin to think positively about financial abundance. One of the easiest ways to start thinking differently is by reading lots of books or material on the subject. One that has served me well is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill.

Keep Visual Reminders Stay inspired by keeping a vision wall at home or work, or even wallpaper on your computer or phone of images and words that

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Never underestimate the power of the tongue. Speak words of affirmation and replace negative responses and sayings about money and wealth with ones that will attract wealth to you. Replace destructive words that rob you of your increase. Instead of saying “I’ll never be able to afford this”, “I’m so broke”, “I don’t have money”, begin to declare “I’m going to buy that (house)”, “Money is on it’s way to me”, “I am rich in everything I need.” Speak these words to yourself daily and begin to introduce them into your conversations.

Reevaluate Your Life Position Sit with pen, paper and your latest bank statements, and write out where you are currently- savings, debt and other commitments.

Consider other elements that are important to you and the things you want to work towards. Decide where you would like to be in the future- maybe it’s home ownership, education, losing 20 pounds, paying off debt, purchasing a car or going on a family vacation. You can have multiple desires.

Prioritize these based on urgency, time and the other factors that are unique to you. Do not become overwhelmed by this exercise. You do not need to decide how the money to achieve these goals will come just yet. The aim is to prioritize.

Be Mindful of Your Spending Habits Begin to see every purchase as an investment. Will this purchase bring me closer to my goal? I don’t care if it’s $1 or $400; the response is the same- to ensure that your money serves you and your purpose or goals, and not someone else’s. Be more mindful of how you spend money. Remember that your success lies in simple but meaningful actions.

Set Goals Help your success by setting specific and achievable goals with target timelines.

Write those goals down.

Read them to yourself daily.

Figure out what you need to do to get there. The only way to move your goals forward and have financial abundance is to create a plan and get moving on it!

remind you of what you’re working towards. Spend a few minutes each day in this space- visualizing yourself having the thing that you desire. Imagine yourself owning it and all the emotions and feelings that will come with it.

Monitor Your Progress Keep track of everything you do in a journal or app. Make note of what you’ve saved, how often you’ve stuck to your action plan and the times you didn’t. Note what worked in those times and what didn’t and make the necessary adjustments.

Stay encouraged by whatever you see because it means you are getting closer to your goal.

Share Your Goals The people around you are very important for your success. Let friends and family know what you’re working towards and be ready to remove yourself- temporarily or permanentlyfrom those who do not support or intentionally sabotage your goals. Make your intentions clear and ask for help.

Seek expert advice from professionals and moral support from loved ones.

Those who truly care will support you in goals that you demonstrate are important to you.

Be Kind to Yourself If you falter, do not beat yourself up!

Recognize that you are on a journey to financial abundance. Forgive yourself for each misstep and wrong turn.

Quickly get back on course and don’t beat yourself up about what was lost in the meantime. Last VERNETTE Eugene is a but not least, be finance and management professional based in thankful for the Toronto. She calls St Lucia path you have her native home and first chosen to travel, love. In addition to her chronicles on personal and for what finance and love of you will achieve simplicity, Vernette is a tea and photography at the end. enthusiast- in that order.

Remember that Follow her adventures at your abundance simplesophisticate.com or on Instagram: is a gift to the @thesimplesophisticate world.

U

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Reportage PAYING FOR TUITION:

CROWD FUNDING WAY THE

Though unconventional, more and more students in the Caribbean are turning to crowd funding to pay for their university education. SHE Magazine’s Claudia Eleibox, an online university student herself, spoke with Shalisha Samuel: blogger, script writer and commercial actress, principals of the St. Augustine and Cavehill University of the West Indies campuses, and other students to gain insight on the concept of crowd funding.

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“T

he greatest fear in the world is the opinion of others. And the moment you are unafraid of the crowd, you are no longer a sheep, you become a lion.” – Osho. This is Shalisha Samuel’s advice to anyone, especially young women striving to pursue their dreams.

Shalisha is enthused with the idea of becoming a full-fledged lawyer. With a fresh spirit and unnerving will she shared her story with us. “I completed my LLB with the University of London and will commence my barrister studies at the University of Law, Birmingham in September 2017. Access to finances such as loans, grants and scholarships is limited, so I launched an online campaign to crowd source for my studies, which has done well.”

Tertiary education is one of the most costly milestones and investments in life. As a result of the high costs, education, a tool for survival in today’s society is not readily accessible, especially in the Caribbean where states are still developing. As of recent, some governments like that of Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica, cover a percentage of tuition costs for nationals from households with income within a certain threshold.

To gain perspective, I spoke to some of my friends around the islands to get their thoughts on furthering their education. Some told me they’d been left with no choice but to miss out on following their childhood dreams of studying meteorology, or forensic-science, solely because they could not afford it, sometimes even with grants and subsidies.

“I’m no economist, but I can see a correlation between increased tuition and an increase in the gap between the “haves” and the “havenots” with the former resulting in the latter,” Shalisha told SHE. “With increased tuition our region is regressing to a place where education was for the wealthy. However, we cannot deny that education opens the door to many opportunities, therefore a further wedge in the gap between those who can versus those who can’t, will increase poverty and all that comes with it.”

“I’m reaching out in hopes that my story could bring some ideas to your readers,” was Shalisha’s response when asked what had inspired her to share her story with such a wide audience. “I wanted to offer insight on crowd sourcing as an avenue to finance studies, answer the unasked or uncomfortable questions and open up a Caribbean environment that is more welcoming to students who decide to crowd fund their education. Surely this would help those who are crowd sourcing for other opportunities, such as entrepreneurship.”

Pairing with that, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UWI Cavehill, Eudine Barriteau emphasized, “If you want that university degree, the time is now. Too many people say they will wait until they have more money or are settled… in two or three years. But in two or three years the prices will go up, and it will be harder!”

Internationally, students are becoming more innovative and creative to get themselves through college. The range of options begins at choosing more affordable ways to earn a degree, such as online education or part-time schooling. Many students take on part-time jobs during the semester to pay for accommodation expenses, or to save towards the next year’s tuition, which may be beneficial in more ways than one. Brian Copeland, Campus Principal of UWI St. Augustine noted, “We are considering trying to get our students to work while attending school. It will help build character and prepare them for the working world.”

Some students start online, easy-to-manage businesses in order to have a constant income while studying.

Fundraisers such as concerts, events, fairs, raffles or yard sales are also common means of raising funds, although students say they can be stressful, and require a lot of effort. Then there’s crowd source funding, which is essentially an online platform to collect money from other people willing to donate or invest to the cause.

Recently, crowd funding has been growing in popularity. The UWI Alumni Association spearheaded by Celia Davidson-Francis, is testimony. Their Global Giving crowd-funding platform has helped present UWI students achieve their goals.

Shalisha expanded on her brilliant crowd-funding scheme, which much to her surprise, is still working for her at full force. Initially, she was a little hesitant about it and sought the confirmation of her peers. With a little bit of encouragement she went ahead with it. Like anything worth having in life, it came with some hard work.

“Crowdsourcing is not for the faint hearted, it takes courage,” says Shalisha, but she is willing to share some tips and boosts to help anyone thinking of pursuing it. SHE Caribbean is at your aid as well!

“I’M REACHING OUT IN HOPES THAT MY STORY COULD BRING SOME IDEAS TO YOUR READERS,” WAS SHALISHA’S RESPONSE WHEN ASKED WHAT HAD INSPIRED HER TO SHARE HER STORY WITH SUCH A WIDE AUDIENCE.

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Clockwise from left: St. George’s University, Grenada; students studying; Principal, UWI St. Augustine, Brian Copeland; Pro-Vice Chancellor and Principal, UWI Cavehill, Eudine Barriteau.

SO HERE’S HOW CROWD FUNDING WORKS: 1

Make the decision then simply sign-up and make a page on any crowd funding website.

2

Then, come up with a realistic goal (or a highly ambitious one) and tokens that you think you can accomplish after a set period of time. The intention is to get people to pledge in return for a token you will send when you have achieved your goal. Some people opt for a few months and others for years. It all depends on your resources and how soon you need to raise your funds.

3

Make your story compelling and be creative with how you display it. Shalisha used a high resolution, quality video for her crowd funder.

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The visuals really are essential to the feedback she’s gotten from her page’s visitors. Her story also included memories, motivations and ideas.

4

Start sharing your crowd funder link everywhere. The most significant benefit of crowd funding is it’s online platform. With crowd funding you can advertise your page on all your social media accounts and continuously get donations.

Don’t be afraid, support is in the strangest places. “I used to assume that we aren’t supportive of it in the Caribbean, but my experience and the data have proved me wrong. I’ve been blessed with well-wishers, lots of donors and positive messages” was Shalisha’s remark concerning donations from Caribbean people.

Although universities are not able to endorse private campaigns, both the Cavehill and St. Augustine principals think crowd funding is a brilliant idea.

Through this platform you can build business ties, make lifelong friends and be inspired by other people’s stories who have connected with you.

Everyone who pledges to your endeavour will undeniably become cherished embellishments of your journey.

However, there are some things to be mindful of when considering crowd funding.

Some governments may require your fundraiser to be approved notwithstanding that it is an online platform. You also want to find out about taxation laws in your country to avoid complications when it’s time to claim the money collected. It may be useful to remember that all banks and credit unions have a limit to the amount of money that can be deposited at one time. Any amount exceeding that may require proof of the funds and identification.

Also, don’t be naive. Shalisha let us know, “If a person is able to raise all of their funds through crowdsourcing, great! But it is wise to work and invest one’s income to reap the rewards, use savings and sell what can be sold to put towards the tuition. To be timid about the initial ask of funding 100 percent of one’s tuition, places the person back at the limiting and fear-based thinking.

Ask and we shall receive; whether in full or in part.”

On some crowd funding sites, the funds are dissipated back to the donors if the amount is not raised in the set period of time.

While it may very well be the last thing you look for when creating a page, terms and conditions are important!

Finally, remember that this will be a very public platform regardless of the number of people you target. Once it is online anyone around the globe can find the website. Whilst developing your story try not to provide personal information that may jeopardize your safety, and be sensitive to the fact that the amount of money you’ve raised can be seen.

Like mentioned earlier, these are just things of which you should be mindful. If crowd funding is something you think will help you with earning that degree, then go for it! Young women have been taking charge and education is no place to limit your creative solutions.

Since 1995, we have provided secondary, tertiary and professional educational opportunities to students, placing nearly 600 students annually. We have been at the forefront of educational consulting, and consistently place students in competitive schools worldwide.

WHAT WE’VE ACHIEVED

Caribbean College, Graduate and doctoral programs, including Law and Medical.

Versan has along, proud, verifiable history of academic success across the board. We invite you to learn more about our programs.

• Over 12,000 college acceptances to date • Students accepted to all Ivy League schools • Notable undergraduate acceptances include MIT (25), Yale (10), Harvard (10), Stanford (22), Cornell (42), Dartmouth (8), Columbia (32), UPenn (22), Brown (15), UChicago (10) • 12 students accepted to Harvard graduate school (School of Education and School of Law) • Over 145 undergraduate acceptances, 22 graduate acceptances, and 35 boarding school acceptances for this academic year PLACEMENT IN SCHOOL AROUND THE THE WORLD.

ESCAPE & VISIT THE CARIBBEAN

SHE Caribbean available on iPad & iPhone Download THIS ISSUE and BACK ISSUES at the Apple Appstore or shecaribbean.com Fabulous Fashion & Beauty Tips, Health, Features, Travel, Relationship Advice and much more...

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Relationships

EITHER YOU’RE FIRST OR YOU’RE NOWHERE!

Is settling an option on the quest to love?

Relationship and life coach Ace Metaphor has the answer!

By Sadie Love

Internet sensation Ace Metaphor.

I

have always been better at dishing out advice than actually following through on wise words from anyone, never mind how qualified.

That situation changed for me last month when out of boredom (and curiosity) I tuned into a live Facebook feed from popular American poet, writer, and life coach, Ace Metaphor. On the particular day Ace was fielding questions from some fans. Of his 300,000 following, close to 1000 were locked on at the start of a work week hoping he would speak to their relationship situations. On impulse, during a lull in the comments, I posed my question: “Is not getting into a relationship with someone because they don’t challenge you mentally a good enough reason or just being too picky if they’re otherwise sweet?”

Now, I’d literally tossed my question into a sea of women falling all over themselves asking this fine looking Internet celebrity relationship guru to marry them. I did not anticipate a response. After joking around with some other people on the feed about the fact that he was conducting this spontaneous talk in the middle of the day in comfy

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looking pajama bottoms, he returned to more serious matters. The next words out of his mouth were targeted straight at me.

“If you know you want someone who challenges you mentally, you two can have stimulating conversations, and you know that’s important for you, my advice would be hold on to that value you seek from another person.”

Though his words were meant to impact the hundreds of other people also watching, I felt like he was speaking only to me. His follow-up instructions included writing down ten things I couldn’t live without and making a point of absolutely not living without them.

“Follow your brain before your heart, because here’s the thing,” he said. “You’re going to write down things, and if you don’t follow them, your heart is going to take over once you meet someone you like even if they don’t have those certain things. You know why? Because lust sometimes blinds us. That’s why you can fall in love with the wrong person. It’s not until that lust wears off that you see that person for exactly who they are.”

Just in case I or anyone else had missed the point he added: “What I’m saying is,

make a decision with your brain. I’m not saying you gotta go on eHarmony and be perfectly matched up with somebody, but if you know you want someone who’s intellectually on your level, that can stimulate you mentally, you two can talk and have these types of discussions like we’re having now, don’t compromise that. At the end of the day, you’re going to have to be talking to that person for a very long time.”

As he spoke I started mentally calculating the things that would make it to my relationship list, but stopped short when Ace said the list had to consist of more than just physical attributes.

“Looks and everything else fade,” he said, repeating the age-old mantra that “communication is something that’s going to stay for a very long time.

Somebody can be very sweet but if they don’t challenge you or communicate with you in the way you want, then maybe that’s something you need to change.”

In case you’re wondering, I no longer have a list; well, save for the one that will from this point on serve as a reminder to refrain from shortchanging myself when it comes to the things I most desire— whether or not romantically!

aga

Fashion

boy:

SARTORIAL BEAU; SOCIAL BUTTERFLY; SON OF A BITCH

There is a fascinating turn of events with the burgeoning menswear movement the world over. Just a glance at the excitement at Pitti Uomo, in Florence, attest to the competing brands dedicated to male apparel development, and speaks volumes for the flourishing creativity and strategic interest towards menswear, in response to the growth of the market. Menswear, over the years, experienced significant transformations, but somehow, always appeared to cater, quite seductively, to the ‘saga boy’. The saga boy existed from time immemorial, or so it seems. Ever since male clothing shifted from merely covering male nudity to something fashionable that could be used to accentuate his positive features to impress his captive admirer, the sartorial beau existed. The saga boy is a dandy. He is an exhibitionist who delights subliminally in another’s appreciation of his look. Indeed, he is a narcissist whose preoccupation with his snazzy finish purports a nonchalant indulgence, possessing an indifference to the attention he garners, even though that was his original intention. Some say he is a social butterfly, while others deem him simply as a son of a bitch! Any which way, he is unadulteratedly blessed with style and charm.

By Richard Young

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THIS PAGE He delights subliminally in her appreciation of his look. His and her Life of the Fete Stretch Denim ensembles of Marlon George.

THE SAGA BOY IS A DANDY. HE IS AN EXHIBITIONIST WHO DELIGHTS SUBLIMINALLY IN ANOTHER’S APPRECIATION OF HIS LOOK. itae porem volorib earchillacea voluptae pliae eius di reiur autatat iuntorum cum et es ut fuga. Neque pratis voluptiaes eaquo te cum quiderfercia

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THIS PAGE Suveer torchbearer the quiet exhibitionist, the globetrotter, the trendsetter, the silent style arbiter - mixed patterns in Black and White Resort Short Pants ensemble by Ecliff Elie with combat boots.

OPPOSITE PAGE Suveer snazzy - in modern Aubergine Worsted Suit highlighted with Duffer Flat Cap Paisleyesque Shirt cutting a fine dudes-man line/finish, and Requisite Sweet Man Choker, Status Watch and Dan Man Ring, courtesy DAWW Marlon George.

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THIS PAGE Akil and Suveer Speezy - perennial quest of the New Age Caribbean imager to reach higher heights, Akil a la Marlon George and Suveer a la Ecliff Elie.

OPPOSITE PAGE Akil sagaboy - ontrend red and white long-tailed short sleeved shirt with floral print highlight complimenting a gun-mouth linen trousers, Ecliff Elie, with conversation piece pendant and lazy sunglasses.

36 S H E C A R I B B E A N . C OM / VOL 72

VO L 7 2 / S H ECA RIBBEA N .COM 37

Athaliah man coming of age.

Blurring the lines of masculine tailored attire Marlon George under the brand DAWW - chocolate waistcoat and pants with brown-based checkered shirt, downplaying the dapper gentleman.

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Styling: Dominique La Roche Grooming: Nicole Missette @Coiffe Fashion: Ecliff Elie, Marlon George @DAWW Models: Athaliah Samuel, Akil Henry, Adrian Fortune, Suveer Ramsook Shoot Coordination: Mannequins Caribbean Location: The Military Museum Chaguaramas, Trinidad

VO L 7 2 / S H ECA RIBBEA N .COM 39

InsideBeauty GLITZ, GLAM &

DAZZLE! Incorporate these Spring 2017 trends into your look for effortless appeal.

By Andra Allen-Joseph

CoverFx Mattifying Primer

La Girl Pro Conceal

If you missed the New Year buzz, don’t sweat it. Spring is the next best time to experiment with new looks and make up. The question of the moment is, how to look flawless without appearing overly done? Follow these simple steps to achieve a classic Spring 2017 look, with a twist!

PUCKER UP

Neutragena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup

FRESH FACE FORWARD

No makeup makeup is back! Alicia Keys was the first to embrace this wholeheartedly in 2016, and it has become a trend for 2017. New York Fashion Week was full of fresh-faced models walking the runways! An easy way to achieve this look is by using CoverFx Mattifying Primer to prep the skin.

To give a very understated contouring of the face, try using a product like La Girl Pro Conceal shades under the foundation. For finishing touches, I like using Neutragena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup to blend the contour products.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bachelorette

We all loved the matte lip in 2016.

Say goodbye ladies, the new trend in 2017… stay glossy! On a minimalist makeup look a glossy lip adds depth to the colour and the overall look. Colours are vibrant and rich. We are especially loving reds this season. In our Spring cover feature, for example, I used a variety of vibrant glossy tones. My favourite was Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bachelorette.

This product however, is not very glossy and I used a clear gloss over top. So don’t panic ladies. No need to throw out all those matte lip products.

Anastasia Beverly Hills “That Glow” Glow Kit

Morphe Cosmetics 35B Palette

Urban Decay Heavy Metal Liners

THE BLUSH BOMB

Morphe Cosmetics 9N Blush Palette

In traditional vocabulary “Draping” is a verb used to describe the action of arranging cloth. Makeup gurus however, have a way of creating their own vocab, so in 2017 be in the know and use this verb to refer to blush application. The technique is basically contouring using blush and it works well if you want to enhance the no makeup look with a pronounced flush of blush colour. I like the Morphe Cosmetics 9N Blush Palette as it is super convenient and there are a range of beautiful colours to choose from.

Draping can be enhanced with some golden highlights from the Anastasia Beverly Hills “That Glow” Glow Kit.

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JEEPERS CREEPERS Those peepers are still on trend with the glitter we loved in 2016.

Rose tones are especially popular.

Right now I’m loving the Morphe Cosmetics 35B Palette. For shades that don’t have enough pop Urban Decay Heavy Metal Liners are a godsend. Apply a little of these glitter liners over top your matte eye shadows and get ready for fireworks.

ABOUT ANDRA : Allen-Joseph works in Saint Lucia as a full time Novalash Extensionist and Makeup Artist. She can be reached at planetstilettobeauty@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/planetstiletto; instagram @planetstilettobeauty

THE ART OF

BROWS

A woman isn’t fully dressed without her brows. There’s just something about well-defined and sculpted eyebrows that enhances your look, and we’ve found some of the best products for doing it, and doing it artfully well!

[2]

[5]

[4]

[1]

[3]

[6]

[1] CLINIQUE SUPERFINE LINER FOR BROWS Great for “faking hair” as the ultrafine tip makes it possible for you to draw the tiniest hairs possible!

[2] YBF AUTOMATIC EYEBROW PENCIL Great for blending, the brush on this pencil ensures you get the effect you desire, and that your eyebrows look blended, and natural.

[3] JOEY HEALY BROW STRUCTURE CLEAR SET Set your brows without the sticky residue. This is perfect if you’re looking for something that’s going to last all day.

[4] M.A.C BROW SET MAC sure knows their make up, and this product is perfect if you want something that’s not too shiny, nor too matte. It’s also long lasting, without the stiffness!

[5] RAMY WHEN HAIRY MET SEALY If you just need something to cover those grays, look no further. This lightly tinted gel does the job expertly.

[6] LAURA MERCIER BROW POWER Best if you need just a bit of plushness. Brow powders are great for achieving a look of uniform density throughout your brows. They’re also great for custom blending.

Olay Regenerist Eye Touch of Concealer

GET RID OF SHADOWS

Smashbox’s lightreflective Photo Op Under Eye Brightener

Pulling in long hours at the office, or staying up late with the kids can wreck havoc on your appearance. We’ve found two items that are great for brightening up your under eyes, without wearing heavy make up.

VO L 7 2 / S H ECA RIBBEA N .COM 41

InsideBeauty SHE: TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY TO BEING AT THE PLACE WHERE YOU ARE NOW? Andra: Presently I wake up on a morning and my first thoughts are thank you!

I spent years in the corporate world making other people’s dreams a reality.

I always admired and daydreamed about life as a creative professional. A colleague who knew of my love of all things glam, encouraged me to try my hand at eyelash extensions. I took a chance and invested in myself thinking that even if it wasn’t a successful venture financially, it would be an extra skill.

Four years later hard work, high quality service and dogged determination to please my customers, has paid off and my business is now recognised and sought after. The success of the lash extension business gave me the confidence to seek professional training in makeup artistry, which is my long time love. Amazing opportunities such as working on this issue’s cover shoot are constantly coming my way. The sky is the just the beginning and I look forward to constant growth and adventure as I build my business, my passion.

SHE: WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR FIELD OF WORK? Andra: Service is my passion. I love getting to know a client while performing a lash service or applying makeup. I love hearing their stories or being a sympathetic ear when it’s needed. I love the joy on their faces when they see the final results of my work. No money can buy that.

DELIVERING HAPPINESS,

ONE LASH AT A TIME!

Success means being passionate about what you do on the journey to getting there.

A

By Lindsay Anderson

ndra Allen-Joseph exudes positivity. I went one afternoon to get my lashes done at her studio inside Phaze 1 Limited, Saint Lucia and left walking on a cloud of sunshine.

There’s no other way to describe it, there’s just something truly uplifting about spending any amount of time in the company of a person passionate about what they do on a daily basis, who loves their job and the process of perfecting their skill even more one client at a time.

Andra currently works as an advanced Novalash Extensionist and Pro Makeup Artist but she’s been part of the SHE Magazine team for years as our beauty consultant. The fact that we’ve known her for so long had us even more excited to share her talent and passion with the rest of the world!

“SHE CARIBBEAN IS A BLESSING IN MY LIFE. THE PHOTOSHOOTS CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE ME AS A MAKEUP ARTIST. WRITING MY BEAUTY ARTICLES CHALLENGE MY INTELLECT AND WIT. APART FROM THE ACTUAL WORK THE TEAM AT SHE HAVE BECOME FAST FRIENDS. WORK IS NOT WORK WITH SHE, ALTHOUGH WE ALWAYS KEEP IT PROFESSIONAL, WE LAUGH A LOT. WORK HARD PLAY HARDER AS THE SAYING GOES. I HOPE TO BE WITH THE SHE TEAM FOR A LONG WHILE TO COME.” 42 S H E C A R I B B E A N . C OM / VOL 72

SHE: WHAT SORT OF FEEDBACK DO YOU GET ALONG WITH THE TRANSFORMATION OF YOUR CLIENTS? Andra: Most clients talk about the difficulty in accessing good customer service, especially in my industry. My goal is to help raise the standard that is expected by being an example of such. I pride myself on offering great customer service. My clients are happy.

SHE: IF YOU COULD TELL WOMEN ONE THING ABOUT SELF-CONFIDENCE AND INNER BEAUTY, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Andra: Love yourself first. For a long time in my own life I tried to be a chameleon. I adapted my personality, my standards and my goals according to what friends, family and love interests expected. I was unhappy and unattractive. My soul was dull. I didn’t have self-love. Over time and after many hard personal lessons I have become the confident person that I am now. I love and please myself first. My soul shines, I am supremely happy and I attract like-minded positive individuals to myself. Audrey Hepburn said it – “happy girls are the prettiest.”

SHE: HOW EASY / DIFFICULT IS YOUR CHOICE OF PROFESSION AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU IN TERMS OF CAREER ADVANCEMENT? Andra: I am living my dream, but even the dream has some rough patches.

As an entrepreneur there is no safety net. There are times when you feel the world is on your shoulders. There are times I sit and cry. It’s not what happens to you however; it’s how you handle it. I have to be strong and dust myself off when I am disappointed or face a set back. When I overcome a rough patch the victory is so much sweeter. In terms of career advancement, I keep training and learning more in my field. This makes me always current and ahead of the game.

SHE: WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL? Andra: To be happy!

FALSIES 101!

Eyelash extensions have been around for a number of years. The procedure was first used with adhesive that was not particularly long lasting. That was until forward thinking brands like Novalash came in and flipped the script. Founded in 2004 by biologist and cosmetic chemist, Sophy Merszei, who pioneered the very first distribution and training network for eyelash extensions outside of Korea, Novalash has developed award-winning adhesives that are both oil and waterproof. Here are five reasons to try them today!

1. Based on the natural life cycle of natural lashes, Novalash extensions last for as long as four to six weeks before every single lash grows out with your natural lashes.

2. Lash extensions are bonded to the lash and not the skin so there is no discomfort.

3. The look is customizable per customer based on lifestyle and style preferences. In Andra's words, "You wake up made up!"

4. They are not harmful to the health of your natural lashes.

5. Novalash eyelash extensions can help restore damaged lashes to optimal fullness!

W E N

FANTASIA INTRODUCES A NEW AND BETTER 100% NATURAL JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL Our oil is certified pure and natural. We are standing behind our quality as a superior grade oil to outperform all the competitors.

Fantasia’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil provides the optimum conditioning for dull hair and dry, flaky scalps.

Fantasia is known for over 50 years for its Quality, Integrity and Value.

• Promotes Healthy Scalp • Hydrates & Relieves Dry Scalp • Prevents Breakage • Strengthens Hair

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Available at Fine Beauty Supply Stores & Major Retailers

fantasiahaircare.com • Made In USA

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HairNews

HAIR

EVOLUTION

W

hatever the period in history, hair has always found a way to carve out its own expression. 2017 is no exception.

A client came into the salon last week and requested Donald Trump orange for his hair. Alas, as ominous as it sounds, Blorange as colour techies like to call it refers to the different shades of orange. This warming to lifeless tones began to make its presence felt from the summer of 2016. The prime objective is to tone down overly blond and ginger tired hair. But the real star is Nude Hair. Can hair become any more naked you might ask? Many clients today are embracing their hair becoming greyer or whatever natural shade they possess. They no longer want to be a slave to coloured roots every six weeks. So the option is going for nudes. These are mixture of cool and warm tones highlighted which create a balance to give hair a more neutral appearance. One’s natural hair colour is inextricably linked to skin tones. Therefore, when warmer complimentary shades are added to a neutral base it is more flattering and less intrusive.

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR LOCKS

Shades will continue to dominate hair trends in 2017. This is because individualism in hairstyling has never been more eclectic. The evolution of hair has created such a wide and varied canvas, from bobs, to long, short, natural hair textures and even geek chic. They are all stars in their own right.

The only common denominator is that they will all be augmented by some colour technique or other. Some celebrities have marketed their signature look so well that they have become brand ambassadors for major brands.

Take for instance Justine Skye whose purple hair landed her a deal with well known brand Dark and Lovely for their new dye.

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NO MORE SPLIT ENDS

All hair textures have the propensity to get dry at some point with constant colouring, especially the ends. They are often the subject of atmospheric abuse which leads to split ends. The best remedy is a bit of Vaseline on the ends once a week or even sparingly on the scalp. Vaseline may cause build up which makes hair heavy and a challenge to style. The best way to manage this issue is to use baking soda mixed with some water as a shampoo. This will degrease your hair.

ABOUT EMILE: He moved from the bright lights of London to start his salon, Phaze One, in Saint Lucia and he’s now one of the island’s most soughtafter stylists and hair-designers. When Emile is not showing off his cutting-edge skills – pun intended - at the salon and for high profile events, his passion for creativity extends into writing poetry and performing at spoken word events.

Phaze 1 Phone: 452-2600

HIGH HEAT WITHOUT

THE DAMAGE

Let’s face it. Kinks, curls and coils are beautiful, but sometimes we want change. If you’re opting to make the temporary transition yourself using high heat tools, you’ll need to do all you can to protect your strands from heat damage. Here are a few products that are great for straightening, from the costly, to the ones you can buy without breaking the bank!

PLAY IT SAFE

These products are must haves for ladies who use curling irons, flat irons, hair dryers, and other heat styling tools.

You’ll thank us later!

Kiehl’s Stylist Series Heat-Protective Silk Straightening Cream

[1] Paul Mitchell Heat Seal

Professional Series Heat Protectant Plus with Argan oil

[2]

[3]

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED Protect your tresses with these handy tools!

CHI Silk Infusion

[1] CHI ROMANTIC MAROON 1-INCH HAIRSTYLING IRON (US$150) We feel in love with the fact that this product didn’t just look the part, but delivered on its promise to cater to all hair types, with easy to manipulate temperature control settings. Dual voltage, quick heating, and simple styling!

[2] REMINGTON TRIPLE INFUSION STRAIGHTENER (US$40) If you can believe it, the Remington Triple Infusion Straightener is charged with Keratin, argan oil, and macadamia oil, which help beat the frizz, and adds shine. It maxes out at 455 degrees of heat, for fast, long lasting styles!

Art Naturals Organic Argan Oil Thermal Shield

[3] CONAIR INFINITI PRO IONIC STEAM FLAT IRON (US$60-$70) Yes, they exist! The Infiniti Pro Ionic Steam flatiron revitalizes your strands, as the steam gives your hair the moisture it needs to look robust.

VO L 7 2 / S H ECA RIBBEA N .COM 45

BodyShop PLATELET RICH PLASMA THERAPY: Centrifugal Motion+Blood= Growing Hair and Ageless Skin

By Candy Nicholas

I’

PRO LIFE OR PRO CHOICE There are many arguments for and against women having the right to choose whether they want, or are able to carry a pregnancy to term, and we recently found a quote that resonated with us in a Huffington Post article by Dr. Jennifer Gunter, OB/GYN, writer, sexpert, and defender of evidence based medicine.

“As a labour and delivery nurse for over 30 years, I am pro life. But, as a labour and delivery nurse for over 30 years, I am also pro choice. I have seen so much joy. And so much pain. When you simplify down to women having choices, you are completely leaving out the women who didn’t have a choice about being pregnant in the first place. You are leaving out the women who use sex to get the drugs they are addicted to. You are leaving out the fact that women who are mentally ill are still having sex and getting pregnant because though their brain doesn’t work properly enough to care for a child, their reproductive organs work just fine. I have taken care of women who are having their 9th child and don’t have custody of any of them because they are homeless drug addicts.

Our nurseries are full of babies who stay in the hospital some times for months as we slowly wean them off the drugs they were born addicted to. I have taken care of women whose babies have lethal fetal anomalies that are incompatible with life outside the womb. Some of them chose to be induced as soon as they found out, which is normally prior to viability. Some of them chose to carry the pregnancy for as long as they could. I have held and cared for those women as they grieved and held their slowly dying or stillborn baby in their arms for the first time. It is totally heart wrenching no matter what.

And I would never presume to put my beliefs or judgment on them. Please open your mind to the fact that there is very real suffering out there and that women who choose abortion might be struggling with things you can’t even comprehend.”

Our position remains that a woman has the right to make an informed decision. If you are considering terminating a pregnancy, we recommend speaking to someone you trust, and your doctor before making a decision.

Just like any other choice, it is one that you will have to live with, so spend some time figuring out what will be best for the long term.

Contact the Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation at (268) 462-4170, or email cfpa@candw.ag for more information.

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m pretty stoked about the growing business of medical skin care in the Caribbean. Many of the islands are sitting on a potential medical tourism goldmine. When you consider the variety of skin care and cosmetic surgery procedures available, the world class training of the Caribbean’s aesthetic dermatologists and the comparatively low costs, it’s a matter of time before people begin to flock the islands for facial rejuvenation by day and limbo by night. Take for instance the furor caused by Kim Kardashian when pictures of her blood stained face went viral. There was an immediate surge in interest in ‘the vampire facial.’ I spoke to the experts at the Dermalogics Medical Spa in St. Lucia about this procedure. They explained that numerous studies support the efficacy of the medical procedure. One particular study concluded that Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment improved skin wrinkles, texture, elasticity, volume and skin tone. Patients reported an 82 percent improvement in skin tone, 52 percent improvement in wrinkle appearance, 87 percent improvement in general appearance, and 100 percent satisfaction with the treatment outcomes. This is how it works: blood contains platelets, which helps to clot the blood and repair damaged areas in the body.

Platelets also release growth factors to stimulate the growth of new, healthy tissue. When PRP is injected ABOUT CANDY: into the skin, it activates dermal Candy Nicholas is a natural health fibroblasts, a skin component that advocate, nutriplays a key role in maintaining tional counsellor and the host of her skin integrity and youthfulness, own popular show, causing the synthesis of cell-renewal Lifestyles with ingredients such as collagen, adhesive Candy Nicholas. She is a St. Lucian TV molecules and cytokines. The PRP and radio personaltreatment involves drawing your ity, businesswoman, law student, writer own blood from the veins in your and former beauty arm. This blood is then placed in a queen. centrifuge, which spins at high speed Catch her on Facebook to separate the platelets from the (Lifestyles with other blood components. The PRP is Candy Nicholas) then injected into the face in multiple and on her youtube channel Lifestyles injections leading to rejuvenation. with Candy, as well The procedure is also being used to as her website Lifestyleswithcandy.com. successfully treat hair loss.

diet is one of those known to be beneficial for losing weight, and staving off disease. Be sure to consult your health practitioner to see what works for you.

3 TIPS FOR BETTER HEALTH LOSE THE BELLY FAT! The fat we eat becomes part of us, and during the middle years, the middle of our bodies tends to expand. Fortunately, there are ways to regain control. Manage your stress levels. The stress hormone cortisol is linked to a build up of fat around your midriff. While you’re at it, be sure to clean up your diet, exercise and get the right amount of sleep!

GO GREEN Did you know that changing your diet and lifestyle may help slow down, or even reverse the progress of disease? Studies have shown that a low fat, plant based diet can help improve your health. While going vegan doesn’t automatically mean you’re healthy, an alkaline

FOOD CRAVINGS AND WHAT THEY SUGGEST CHOCOLATE: This craving is linked to a deficiency of magnesium, which is why we feel so much better after we’ve had it. Magnesium can also be found in healthier sources. Dark leafy greens, for example, are an excellent source of magnesium, as are seeds, nuts, fish, beans and molasses.

SUGAR: Deficiencies in five nutrients could be to blame if you find yourself craving sugary foods.

Chromium, sulfur and tryptophan are among them, the latter being a serotonin (happy brain chemical) regulator. Due to the amount of mineral deficiencies a sugar craving might suggest, you probably want to look at revitalizing your diet to restore your body’s mineral balance.

STARCH: Another common type of craving is for things like pasta and bread. This can signal a deficiency in nitrogen, which can result in overall malnourishment. If you find yourself craving lots of carbs, consider adding seafood to your diet, as fish contain a lot of this mineral.

FATTY FOODS: If you crave foods like fries, cheese and the like with a high oil and fat content, it could be indicative of a calcium deficiency. Consider eating turnip greens and broccoli.

JUNK FOOD: When you find yourself reaching for that bag of chips or popcorn, reach instead for fish, nuts and seeds. These are healthy ways to gain the chloride or silicon your body is telling you it wants.

Taking a good multivitamin and mineral supplement is always a good idea for shaking off unhealthy cravings!

SAY NO TO THE WESTERN DIET To get going on the path to better health, it is advisable to steer clear of diets that are high in fat, dairy, and sugar, all of which are attributes of the Western Diet.

THE WESTERN DIET:

low fibre (bowel cancer, constipation), high fat/ cholesterol (heart disease, diabetes, obesity, infections, cancers), high sugar (obesity, infections, cancers), high salt (high blood pressure, kidney

failure), low nutrients (fatigue, anemia), high protein (arthritis, cancers).

EXPERT GUIDE TO ESSENTIAL OILS Essential oils are organic compounds extracted from plants with tremendous healing properties.

Using essential oils for healing purposes is often called aromatherapy, which is a holistic treatment seeking to improve physical, mental and emotional health. Here are some of the most popular oils on the market.

EUCALYPTUS: Improves respiratory issues like bronchitis, sinusitis and allergies. Also invigorating and purifies the body.

FRANKINCENSE: Builds immunity, reduces inflammation, heals age spots, supports brain function, and may help fight cancer. It’s also a great mood enhancer!

GRAPEFRUIT: Supports metabolism and cellulite reduction. Mix with coconut oil and rub on areas of cellulite or take a few drops internally with water.

LAVENDER: Helps with relaxation, improves mood and heals burns and cuts.

OREGANO: Has powerful anti-microbial properties, can kill fungus and help heal a cold fast.

PEPPERMINT: Supports digestion, improves focus, boosts energy, is a fever reducer, and provides headache and muscle pain relief.

ROSE: Incredible for reducing skin inflammation and great for creating glowing skin. Add a few drops to your facial moisturizer. It is one of the most valued essential oils in the world at US$1000 or more for 15ml.

TEA TREE OIL (MELALEUCA): Natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, reduces bad odours and can help stimulate the immune system.

SANDALWOOD: Natural aphrodisiac that improves libido and can also improve energy.

Helps with insomnia and anxiety!

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RealLife

BEING

PLUS SIZE

HAS BEEN A JOURNEY...

In 2016 Kenty Lichtenberg became St. Maarten’s first plus size blogger, (endorsed

by L’Oreal Paris St. Maarten). Today, she collaborates with local, regional and international partners on a mission to promote body positive images and self-confidence for plus sized women around the world.

By Kenty Lichtenberg

M

y journey to self acceptance was a long one.

From a very young age I had to understand and accept that I was different, but that did not make me any less of a person. It was imperative that at a tender age, I learnt to love myself and not to focus on the negative stereotype of a “FAT” girl. As the outspoken and daring

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person that I am, I decided that I was going to embrace my every curve, while turning it into something positive. The key to this was the support of family and friends, as they accepted me with the good, the bad, the ugly and yes… the extra pounds. The question would always ring in my ears: So, how do I learn to love myself despite the comments, stares and all round negativity? I had to challenge myself to embrace what I was good at, without labeling it as a size or comparing myself to another body type.

Around the world, women have been fighting for equality in many different industries, but plus size women have been struggling with that plus issues to do with mental stability and the accompanying emotional struggle, self acceptance, motivation and body image for longer than you can imagine.

That automatically places us at a bigger disadvantage.

Throughout my career and personal growth, fashion has always been a part of me.

The challenge was of course how to remain trendy and fashionable in a world where designers did not go further than an “average” size 10. The stigma, not only within the Caribbean but globally, was that as a full figured woman, we could only dream of ever looking like the models on the catwalk. Today we have plus size yoga instructors, plus size ballet dances, plus size models and plus size designers, just to name a few. In the Caribbean, although moving relatively slower than more developed countries, we can talk about progressive changes and evolution within our mindset. The plus size woman is becoming more vocal, daring, and demanding of factors that they want. They are no longer afraid to explore fashion possibilities. Gone are the days when plus-size women were left wearing bloomers, which are wide and not very attractive!

I’ll be the first to admit that the changes did not happen overnight. Leading the way are the “big girls” making things happen around the world. The changes have elevated our selfimage, confidence and drive. We are now empowered to aspire to higher levels that we’d never before dreamed possible. We have to give recognition to the many courageous ladies who have paved that path for us today, and they range from plus size bloggers to models (cover of Sports Illustrated) on the runway to a Ms. Plus USA (since 2003). This year alone during New York Fashion Week, the presence of full figured models was twice the amount when compared with previous years, a move that clearly shows and confirms the plus size evolution.

Kenty Lichtenberg was born on the beautiful island of The Dominican Republic, and raised on the wonderful 37 square miles of St. Maarten. In 2001 she traveled to The Netherlands to complete her tertiary education in Tourism & Leisure Management. Her blog is yet another platform to enhance and solidify body positive images of plus size women, teaching women that it is “OK” to be different. Kenty can be contacted via: info@keraikreativestyle. com, Instagram: Kerai Kreative Style 2016 and Facebook: Kerai Kreative Style

BRINGING SATISFACTION INTO YOUR LIFE…

Everyday!

Our portfolio of reputable brands tailor to the daily lifestyle of every woman, from food products to personal care, and beauty supplies - We’ve got you covered from your head to your toes.

Our brands can be found at all major retailers islandwide.

A G EN TS & D ISTRIBU TORS

PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT Touché, Vide Boutielle, Castries, St. Lucia Phone: 758 455 8061/8003 Fax: 758-452-7602 Email: touché@renwickslu.com.

A Division of Renwick & Company Limited

Touché

RealLife

THE

HORSE WHISPERER

Horses are sentient beings, often described as majestic and regal. For me horses embody an energy of peace and expansiveness; an all embracing transparency and all that is authentic. To be able to connect with them always gives me a sense of wonderment and excitement because what you see and sense with them is what you get. Animal communication, therefore, can be expressed as the means to connect with and exchange thoughts, feelings and opinions with the animals around us. By Esther Austin

I

became aware that I could communicate and feel horses on a spiritual, physical and emotional level some three years ago. This came about as I was delivering an intuitive reading to someone over the phone when half way through I was asked if I could tune into her horse and find out what was wrong with him. I was a little taken back at first because I had never consciously tuned into an animal before even though I had always felt connected to them.

I remember questioning myself from a professional perspective.

I wondered how I could possibly verify and confirm what I was picking up and feeling from the animal. As I intuitively connected to this particular horse, the feeling was one of deep interconnectedness, a sense of knowing who he was. I felt his pain and sensed his anxiety and distress, and it was deep and powerful. The horse offered information about how he was feeling, what he needed, past experiences and how those had and maybe still were impacting him on an emotional and physical level. I felt such an incredibly strong pull into this animal’s inner-most and personal space and as I sensed him more I noticed a depth in his rich dark eyes which held so many secrets, pain and things he wanted to communicate. I then decided to find out more about animal communication and came across a few

50 S H E C A R I B B E A N . C OM / VOL 72

short courses by James French where I gained valued insights and knowledge on how to effectively communicate with horses more and also how animal communication was a great way for people to learn how to transform their lives and gain better understanding of themselves. So I came away with the trust technique, which taught me how to support animals to trust. It was only then that healing could commence.

The process of communicating is that I bring my mind into a very calm state, almost like that of subtle meditation. Once my mind is calm I am then able to connect and communicate with the animal on their level. With the healing sometimes I put my hands on the animal and walk around them and I pick up messages about what’s going on inside them physically, mentally and socially but also healing takes place on a very deep level and usually an animal’s pain or discomfort will disappear.

The reason I was asked to communicate with this particular horse called Shamus, was because he was exhibiting signs of irrational emotional behaviour. These were experienced by the owner as Shamus sometimes being non-responsive to her or not allowing her to get near to him and also not mixing in well with the other horses. Upon tuning into Shamus I discovered Pictures clockwise: Esther with Horse in he had been ill treated Barbados; Esther with Tupac India. by a previous owner so he had trust issues. He also had stomach upsets, triggered by his distrust, which had brought on stress. In the process a vet discovered that he was allergic to some of the food he was being fed. I also picked up that some of his nervousness was due to him being in a fire a few years previously which the owner was able to validate. Shamus and his owner were also reflecting some of each other’s feelings and behaviours. After the first session of animal communication with Shamus the owner noted a marked improvement reporting back that Shamus was now much calmer and responsive, and that she was able to ride him more. A swelling in one of his legs had also disappeared. They were both learning to regain trust with each other. There was still a lot more work to do with Shamus but this was the first positive step of change.

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing an animal’s symptom on a physical, spiritual and emotional level disappear after a session, hence my role simply is to support them in being understood in order for them to experience a new lease on life, and live a more fulfilled existence. For further information or to book a consultation visit: www.estheraustinglobal.com Esther Austin is an intuitive healer, empowerment speaker, talk show and lifestyle presenter, animal communication practitioner (has worked in an animal hospice in India, and with horses in Barbados, Ecuador and The UK) and a personality image and dress style consultant. Her passion and remit is transforming, empowering and facilitating healing in lives. She is mother of two young men and a grandmother. She loves being out in nature and is very much into health, wellbeing and fitness, and has a passion for horses.

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DIE DOMINICAN DANCER SADE BULLY’S JOURNEY TO FREEDOM If you ask her, she’ll tell you she’s been dancing from the womb. Born in Dominica, Sade Bully keeps the ever-changing details of her journey near to her heart.

By Kayra Williams

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Photo by: Juan C. Irizarry

DANCE

Photo by: Marc Safran

Photo by: Marc Safran

Photo by: 365 Group Inc

S

ade Bully likens being a Caribbean dancer in a big city to a sense of belonging “to a very exclusive club.” Though every journey is different, she describes a palpable, mutual sort of respect and understanding that is shared in each encounter. The dancers all recognize what it took to meet at that specific point in their lives, and in her words, “we recognize that indomitable spirit in each other, and we find home and support in each other.”

In 1988 Sade moved with her family from Dominica to Kingston, Jamaica. Her father had landed a new job with UNESCO and Sade, her mother, and her two siblings were taken along for the ride.

“My mother acted only as devoted housewife for the first several years there,” a title Sade says she happily and proudly possessed. “She made it her duty to fill all her children’s afternoons with every extracurricular activity she could find.

She drove us (madly) to piano lessons, flute, drums, choir, dance classes, art classes, gymnastics, and kung fu. Every day of the week- filled!”

Most of their after school classes were held at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Sade remembers being dropped off for piano lessons and sneaking over to the dance department to watch the classes there instead. One dance class a week quickly became dance classes daily at three or four different studios a week. Every new dance resulted in Sade pleading with her parents to be enrolled in a new class.

“By the time I was 11 years old at The Tony Wilson School of Modern Dance, Mr. Wilson after my first class in his studio “the shack” on Waterloo Road, was the first person to say “this little

girl is a star”. For some reason, right away, I believed him. I danced with him and later with his company, The Company Dance Theatre, for the next 15 years as one of his primary soloists and leads.

The dance studio, the stage, it is where I “became”. It is where I was introduced to myself. It is where for the first time I felt my power, my strength, true joy from inside, total freedom and all my love.

For the purposes of our interview we sought to find the root of Sade’s inspiration. Her response, “what inspires me is something that is constantly in flux or changing. Perhaps this is because I no longer feel as though I am dancing just for my love though that is inevitably a constant,” she explains. “At the moment that my art became my career and profession, and more recently since becoming a free agent in the professional world, I see myself more now… dancing for my life.”

“When you are dancing for your life there becomes an impetus to dig deeper,” she says. “Here I am mostly and kind of only inspired by fearless artists and dancers who appear to put their life on the line for their art; persons who show total commitment and investment in whatever they have set out to achieve without a glimmer of doubt, hesitation or apology; artists who set out to change the world with their work, and who do, or at least change mine. It makes me laugh a little to say this because sometimes I have the ability to step away from myself and see dance as such a simple thing that is really not life and death at all. But in the same way that it is where I met myself, I believe dance and art is also a powerful place to meet each other, and to meet the world. I am currently inspired by those artists who use their love and their work to confront the world at its limits and then proceed to push beyond.”

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Photo by: Marc Safran

opened the door to more stages than I can count.”

Sade was now in a place where she felt more committed than ever to her decision to give herself completely to dance.

“I always knew as long as I was doing both it would be impossible for me to reach my full potential as a dancer. I wanted to give myself a real shot at what was in my eyes the ultimate dream. The moment I detached myself mentally and emotionally from the reality that I had a ‘fallback plan’ is when things started to change for me in New York.”

It has been eight years and she has never looked back. In fact, as she progresses, Sade continues to look up to the people she considers her role models in the dance world, such as Pina Bausch, Alvin Ailey, Ohad Naharin, as well as “a true modern-dance legend and genius who personally affected and changed my life, Jamaican-born Garth Fagan.”

“He offered me my first dance contract in 2011 and I danced with his company ‘Garth Fagan Dance’ in New York under his Barely halfway through our interview Sade had already knocked guidance and mastery for the next five and a half years.” the ball way out of the park. We knew of her artistic inclination There are others. People she credits for having imparted wisdom and the deep-seated passion that seeped into her dance moves, and knowledge throughout her career including Tony Wilson, but Sade’s world got a whole lot bigger than just that.

Professor Rex Nettleford in Jamaica, Ronald K. Brown, Norwood PJ Inspired by parents who on the surface seemed mismatched, Pennewell, Natalie Rogers-Cropper and Sharon Skepple Mayfield. her mother by nature a Mathematician and her father, a rebellious Moving forward, Sade’s desire is to continue growing as a French and Literature major, and the fact that “two people, so dancer and artist. She wishes most of all to continue creating seemingly different, would fall in love and stay together for four from the heart, traveling the world on dance stages, performing decades and counting” Sade says she’s learnt to in ways that will serve to expand her see the connections in dance and other things. own consciousness and existence, Key among those, dance and medicine, which and sharing the gift of dance with according to her are both at young people, particularly those of heart “devoted to finding the solution to the the Caribbean. same question of... how can one improve life?”

The Dominican dancer considers it “Medicine confronts Death, Dance confronts blessing of immeasurable proportions What can you typically be found Life,” she says. “Medicine prolongs life and is that she’s one of a unique population doing when you’re not working?

When work is dance, I am always working intent on providing answers, Dance enriches it of just over 70,000 people. and never working. Living is working, it is and instigates more questions… Both test and “When you recognize the gift it all research, all exploration and inspiration.

Travelling. Any opportunity I have to see challenge, both require courage and valour, both is to be carrying the warm waves of another part of the world I take it! suspend time or attempt.” the Caribbean sea in your veins... the What makes you most happy?

Where does it all fit in? For Sade, medicine volcanic mountains of Morne Trois Cheese (and Love). was the first part of the equation. She graduated Piton on your back... the swaying What’s life like outside of ‘work’ for you? from medical school in 2008, and then went on coconut trees in your hips... and the Beautiful, exploratory, peaceful, nurturing, to complete a one-year internship practicing at vibrant sounds and colourful spirit of passionate, exciting, filled with love and the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH). Immediately your people in your pumping heart… adventure. I am blessed with the most loving, supportive and inspiring parents, family and thereafter, she moved to New York City to pursue you cannot help but know your origin friends, and I am happy to know and dance a career in dance. is your advantage, what is most natural with my soulmate.

“It was one of my greatest challenges,” she says. to you cannot be copied or replicated, Mood on stage?

“I attempted to enter the dance field at an age and you stay thankful for your roots.”

An adrenaline rush. Fear and exhilaration many considered “too late”, and said “goodbye” combined, followed by total peace and tranquility. It becomes calm and quiet, and the to the security and comfort the medical field most natural thing on earth. afforded me while loving but confused family and friends observed with weighted expectations and What music do you love dancing to best, and why? anxious anticipation.”

Afro-beat! It vibrates through my bones. It The result? Multiple rejections, and the sinking reminds me of everything I love about being feeling that perhaps her skeptics had been right.

Caribbean, and of the rich African heritage my entire life has been influenced by. It is just With a burning determination Sade pushed on, happiness to me. set to prove that with hard work, anything was possible.

Mantra you live by?

The title from one of my favourite books by “I was eventually met with one “Yes” from Garth Susan Jeffers, Ph.D: “Feel the fear… and do it Fagan Dance. That “Yes” changed my life and anyway”.

Photo by: Erich Camping

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JEANELLE

SCHEPER

The sky is no limit for any high jumper, especially those who make it to the Olympic games, and are five feet and ten inches of golden, sun-kissed beauty. Jeanelle Scheper is a combination of sugar, spice, brains and achievement. We got the 22-year-old to share with us what it took to achieve her wildest dreams.

By Claudia Eleibox

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Photography: MishaĂŠl Fabien

Participating in sports requires discipline and athletes definitely have different mindsets than most other people.

Jeanelle is no different: she enjoys competitive sports particularly because she can set tangible goals. She describes high jump as straightforward, much like her majors in undergrad: math and economics. Her discipline radiates in her social life as well. Alcohol is a crucial element for partying but when asked about it Jeanelle told SHE without a trace of bother “I don’t drink. When I’m at school I really don’t go out very much at all. When you’re training it’s really counter intuitive to what you’re doing, it slows recovery so you just have to make a decision that it’s not something you’re going to do.”

Her determination is definitely paying off! Although she admits not having performed her best due to an injury she had been struggling with, Jeanelle was still able to represent Saint Lucia at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio Di Janeiro.

“Just being at the Olympic ceremony, my brother sent me a message and he was like I’m watching you on TV sis, and he was in the Netherlands, he had to stay up so late, and he was like, I’m so proud of you. That just did it. I was crying, I was SHE: Do you have super emotional. I look around a favourite song?

Jeanelle: I like too much music to me and literally, this is my dream have a favourite song but right happening. It was amazing.” now I’ve been listening to a lot Jeanelle’s relationship with of alternative R&B. I love Issiah Roshad, Lana Del Raye; her voice her brother is a reflection of her is amazing! I also like Kendrick commitment to maintaining close Lamar and Childish Gambino. ties with her family, and others SHE: What about near and dear to her, including books or movies? her coach. Jeanelle heartily told Jeanelle: I love Marvel movies.

Any Marvel movie I’m good, us she’s made it possible to be and thrillers. As for books: The home every Christmas since Alchemist, favourite book of all she began travelling for sports time. I’ve read it a few times! (which she loves). One of her SHE: What did you enjoy the weaknesses since becoming a most about the Olympics? professional athlete however, is Jeanelle: Just being in the Olympic Village. It was literally just food. Particularly of the homethis big sectioned off area just for made variety. us. About thirty 18 story high rises, with pools and tennis courts, and “My family is very food oriented. there was a 24-hour dining hall. It My dad has had two restaurants, was amazing! one my uncle now owns in SHE: Thoughts on relationships Barbados, it’s called Rolli’s Bar and and competitive sports?

Grill. The other one he had was Jeanelle: I was in a relationship a double decker bus in London for the entire duration of my collegiate career. I think when it that he converted to a pizzeria. It’s gets complicated is when you’re since been sold.” not in a relationship actually, The next big competition for this because then you’re single, and people want to date you, and Boss Lady will be in August, at the that’s distracting. Particularly when World Championships in London. it comes to heartbreak.

At our interview, she spoke about SHE: Did you do any of the qualifications for the event, which typical Olympic athlete rituals? were open until July, 2017.

Jeanelle: I wasn’t going to because I thought it was so cliché, We wish you good health and but I got the Olympic symbol all the best Jeanelle, there’s circles tattooed on my inner right no doubt you will reach even forearm… after the fact you’re like nah you have to. further this time!

SNAP SHOT

J

eanelle Scheper’s athletic career has just begun but she’s already accomplished so much. She began track and field at the St. Joseph’s Convent in Saint Lucia, when a teacher asked if she’d be interested because, well, she was taller than everyone else. Little did she know then how far daring to try something new could take her. She was recruited by one of the coaches on the field who sought permission from her mother to begin formal training in high jumping. It was then Jeanelle learnt about the Carifta Games.

While she was unable to participate that first year, she spent her time officiating the Games, something she says made her appreciate the first experience of jumping in the meet even more.

Jeanelle has a special place in her heart for the Carifta Games, which she surprisingly says never really made her nervous.

“Carifta is amazing,” she told SHE. “There is no other meet like it. I think the appreciation for track and field in the Caribbean at that level is huge, so all the Carifta Games I’ve been to have just been phenomenal.”

At Carifta of April 2010, in the Cayman Islands, a scouting coach from the University of South Carolina approached Jeanelle to discuss scholarships and other opportunities that were at her disposal if she pleased. By the following January, Jeanelle was attending the University of South Carolina on a track and field scholarship.

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Fashion

AMP HIT RITE Personification of the sea, or Goddess of the Sea itself, the mystique of the third one who encircles (everything) captured the heart of another effortlessly. She fled, in vain, and was captured, forcibly made to marry. Poseidon, God of the Sea; a courtship not unfamiliar here, and now, and they lived happily. Or at least, so we’re told.

Photographer: Jaryd Niles Morris

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White faux leather bodysuit with lace details. Pearl earrings

by Miguel Ases.

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THIS PAGE Gold Lame dress.

OPPOSITE PAGE Gold jewellery by Julie Vos (Chain Link Necklace, Bracelet Cuff).

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Amphitrite lace bodysuit. Bangle with Malachite stone by Seraphine Designs, Druzy necklace by Dana Kellin.

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Makeup: Lia Gajadhar Photo Assistant: Narada Thorington & Anika Millington.

Model: Kari McCarthy & Khalil Goodman Location: Little Bay, St. Lucy, Barbados

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Entertainment

INSTA FAMOUS Name: Christelle Blanche Nationality: San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic Followers: 16.8k

This 24-year-old social media icon is currently signed to two modeling agencies, Green Agency and Professionally Pretty, with a whopping 16.8k followers on Instagram. When asked whether her followers were mostly friends or fans, Christelle said it was a mixture of both, and that she liked to follow people who inspired her. For the purposes of our interview, we asked what she considered too much to share on social media.

“I don’t really share my personal relationships but I definitely post about my events and different photo shoots,” she said. “I post my daughter here and there so people know I’m a real person!” Christelle is also a Brand Ambassador for various brands under the Bacardi umbrella, as well as a freelance wardrobe stylist, all of which she says social media has helped her to achieve. “I would say IG is a great way to promote yourself as a model but do not get caught up in the likes!” she said finally. “You must be very strategic in how you use IG as a marketing tool.”

Where you’ve seen her: Lil Wayne “Cross Me” Feat. Future & Yo Gotti, and Vybz Kartel’s “Colouring Book”.

What you need to know: She was raised around the world as an “army brat” and spent most of her childhood in North Carolina, before moving to Miami.

Educational background: She went to media arts school in Miami where she says professors always encouraged her and her peers to start using social media as a form of marketing. “I began with an online vintage boutique and used IG to promote it,” she says. “I eventually ended up deleting my IG with 20k back in 2012 and have had to build it back up.”

Worst social media experience: “Posting a photo of me with a guy I thought I was dating and then he ended up being married. That was embarrassing! His wife ended up finding my page. Big no no!”

NIKIANNA WILLIAMS MISS ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES 2016 On June 4 2016, Nikianna Willams did not only create history in St Vincent and the Grenadines when she won the Carnival Queen title, she became an ambassador, a role model, and a mentor. In her words, “To children in particular, I became the queen with the magic wand.” With her dreams now a reality Nikianna remembers her younger sister standing on stage with her after winning the crown, telling her that she’d believed all along that she’d emerge winner. “I looked across the stage and I was brought to tears,” she said, before going on to talk about what life had been like growing up in a single parent family with six siblings. “It taught me to be determined,” she said. “I witnessed my mother working several jobs to ensure my siblings and I were well taken care of and because of that experience, I’ve always wanted to make a difference in my family’s life.” Her win did not come without challenges, and of course, lots of preparation, but today Nikianna reflects on the moments she felt like giving up, and realizes she is where she is today because of her unfailing support Moving forward, Nikianna says her greatest system of friends, family and other team members. “They always reminded me that I desire is to help children, and alleviate child could settle for nothing less than the crown on my head,” she said. Nikianna’s reign hunger in St Vincent and the Grenadines. comes to an end on June 3, 2017, after which she will pursue studies in Psychology and Education at the University of the West Indies. Even after giving back her crown the beauty queen vows to continue doing all she can to ensure that she lives up to the expected standards of not only a beauty queen, but a Caribbean Ambassador!

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LEIGH PHILLIPS

Singer-songwriter Leigh Phillips is ready to make her mark on the music industry. Leigh was born on the island of Grenada and raised in Barbados. Her first outlet for her vocal abilities was at her church, where she continued to sing well into her teenage years.

She has written consistently from the age of twelve and has a catalogue of over one hundred songs. Leigh attended Combermere School in Barbados. She then moved to Canada, where she received her Bachelor’s degree in International Development Studies and Spanish at York University. While at York University she was published in a collection of works by the Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean. Leigh would spend her time performing between Canada and Barbados until she returned home to Barbados in August 2015.

No stranger to overcoming challenges, at eleven years old Leigh was diagnosed with scoliosis. She had major corrective surgery to her spine at the age of thirteen. This she says, influenced her outlook when it comes to music and life. Leigh believes that challenges will come, scars may be left behind, but your mind will guide you in the right direction if you stay focused.

The singer credits her love for music to her older sister who had a diverse CD collection ranging from Coolio, to Buju Banton, Anita Baker and Billy Holiday. Her sound is guided by that diversity as she mixes Caribbean flavours with Jazz influenced vocals over Pop beats.

To keep up with Leigh while she works on her upcoming EP check her out here: www.facebook.com/leighphillips246 Instagram @leighpmusic

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MomToMom PAINTING, DRAMA, SWIMMING, TRACK? THE ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES! Struggling with pointing your children to special interest areas? Here are some tips that can help!

By Eliza Francis-Victor

M

y 7-year old daughter is growing up and racing on the road of self-actualization that she expresses through her choice of reading material, clothing and activities she finds pleasurable. Of course, as a true Gen-X parent intent on ensuring she enjoys a world of stimulation, I attempt, sometimes in vain, to skew her choices to those I find appealing: Like the time I tried to steer her towards my favourite childhood writer Enid Blyton-- she has instead opted for Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Treehouse series.

She sometimes will humour my request to try something new, before obstinately returning to her preferred activity. And after several requests from her to quit swimming and join her school’s arts and craft co-curricular class I’m wondering whether it’s in anyone’s interest insisting otherwise. Of course I tried to bargain and offered to do more craft at home, to which she promptly responded that she wanted to do it at school. What to do? Well, for now she’s still enrolled in swimming and progressing nicely. I have not heard about arts and craft in a while.

But this has me wondering to what extent we should go, as well-meaning parents, in pointing our children to special interest areas. To excel in any activity, there must be a measure of enjoyment. If your child experiences no pleasure is participation of any benefit? Lest you find yourself with a drum set that is left to gather dust because you thought your toddler’s constant drumming on everything in sight meant she may be interested in that instrument!

There is no failsafe plan or even tell-tale signs that are absolute. Fortunately, there are guidelines that can help:

BY ALL MEANS POINT THEM IN A DIRECTION, SHARE YOUR OWN INTERESTS BUT IF THEY CHOOSE OTHERWISE BE OPEN ENOUGH TO ACCEPT THEIR DECISION.

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SIGN YOUR CHILD UP FOR DIFFERENT EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES One of the best ways to discover your child’s abilities is to have them explore and engage in a wide variety of dramatically different activities. You can do this through membership in a club or a class or informally at home. This way, not only will you be able to see how your child performs in different types of situations, but you’ll also be able to gauge your child’s interests.

RESPECT THEIR CHOICES Suggest activities to your child, but if they refuse to go, perhaps you should reconsider the activity. While having your child sign up for many extracurricular activities is great, make sure that your child is not overcommitted and still has time to have free fun.

EXPOSE THEM TO VARIOUS CULTURES Enrich your child’s world by encouraging them to have a circle of friends that include those outside of their cultural experience and background. You never know when someone from a different background will introduce an activity that your child will love.

OBSERVE YOUR CHILD AT PLAY. Take time to watch your child play and observe how your child plays and what your child does. Don’t assume that your child’s play is trivial or meaningless. A child will act and play in ways that may reflect differing individual interests, intelligence and abilities. See how they play with other children.

LISTEN Talk to your child about what he or she likes to do. Often times, your child will articulate the best insight into her own abilities. Don’t discount the fact that your child may actually know her talents better than anyone else. At the very least, your child will know her own likes and dislikes, which are often as important as natural talent. Your child may not be able to articulate what she is good at, however, if she enjoys certain activities, this may point to an innate talent.

While we envision our children will become well-rounded adults, who have tasted the fruits of ballet, the power of music or the pull of the arts and we foist on them karate lessons, soccer games and every other extra-curricular event imaginable, we must remember to allow them the freedom to develop their individuality. By all means point them in a direction, share your own interests but if they choose otherwise be open enough to accept their decision. Remember they have a whole lot of growing up to do and if at first they reject your choices, you may be surprised to find that later in life they gravitate to the very same activity. In the meantime, remember to support their forays into the world.

ABOUT ELIZA : Eliza is a freelance writer and photographer. She enjoys the outdoors and adventure, which she loves to share with her two daughters aged 7 and 5. She believes in savouring life and making memories that last more than a lifetime.

Baby Charlotte’s

Advertorial

A FLOWER CROWN STORY Baby Charlotte’s is a small business, located in the beautiful island of St Lucia, that makes floral hair accessories and crafts, the signature item being the Flower Crown.

Founded by Rachel Thwaites-Williams, Baby Charlotte’s is the product of years of thinking, hoping, dreaming, and finally a leap of faith!

As a Medical Doctor, it can be difficult to cultivate one’s artsy craftsy side with the hours that the profession demands.

I always sat and thought, and hoped, and then talked myself out of starting a small craft-based business, what would people think? What if I fail? Am I “allowed” to try something outside of my profession?

It was after I found out I was carrying my little blessing Charlotte, and was forced to slow down a bit, I started to become more centered, started to gravitate to the things I had been missing most, nature and creativity.

I always felt better if I took a walk in the garden, took in the fresh air, and began to draw up floral hair-piece ideas. I became immersed in my natural surroundings and imagined creating projects that embodied nature itself.

It was after Charlotte was born, and while watching her grow, I noticed that she too loved nature - especially bougainvilleas, our “puppy”, dirt and leaves… I decided, it was time to take the plunge, give it a try…

Out of our shared love for nature, solidified by the love baby Charlotte has for flora and fauna, came the idea to take the plunge, to make hair pieces for the inner flower child in us all!

It has been a pleasure to create pieces that make others feel beautiful, girly, ethereal and earthy.

Baby Charlotte’s floral hair pieces are made for the inner flower child in us all; and while we primarily work with artificial flora, we also make pieces with real flowers on special request.

WE ARE GEARED TO THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE FLOWER CROWNS OR FLORAL HEADBANDS FOR: • Weddings, namely for brides, bridesmaids and for bridal showers • Baby Showers • Pregnancy Photo shoots - for the beautiful mummy-to-be • Glamour Photo shoots • Just because!

We also offer the option of purchasing “Flower Crown Kits” - Each kit comes with the flowers, hardware needed and instructions on how to make your own crown, how fun! You can get one for yourself or buy a bunch of them for your friends for a bridal shower or birthday or girls night - it’s a great activity!

WE ALSO MAKE FLORAL BASED CRAFTS - SUCH AS:

“PIECES THAT MAKE OTHERS FEEL BEAUTIFUL, GIRLY, ETHEREAL AND EARTHY”

wedding signs, indoor floral signs and floral bedroom, living room and kitchen decor, If you can dream it, we can make it!! All handmade with love Especially for you! It is always a pleasure creating unique pieces for our customers.

Enjoy our pieces as much as we enjoy making them!

Xoxo,

RACHEL CEO Baby Charlotte’s

You can find us on Instagram: @babycharlottes, Facebook: www.facebook/babycharlottes our website: www.babycharlottes.com our online store will be up soon! blog: www.babycharlottes.wordpress.com Or contact us by email: info.babycharlottes@gmail.com

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It’s easy to go over board where kitchen tools are concerned, but do you really need five can openers, two of which don’t work anymore? Unless you’re a chef of some sort, you probably don’t need five cast iron pots (that are almost identical in size!)

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Whether in the form of mirrors, glass or crystal pieces, reflective surfaces have a way of adding extra dazzle to any room. One of two pieces are enough to create a noticeable change so you don’t have to go overboard with the spending. Find frames, mirrored coasters, or other glass collectibles, and revel in the magical result.

TOSS OR

KEEP? It’s a hard concept for some to grasp that household and personal items are not meant to last forever. When it comes to getting rid of stuff, sometimes we procrastinate for sentimental reasons, but the truth is, you can’t make room for anything new without first getting rid of the old. Here’s a guide to getting rid of the clutter!

Greenery Works

We’re not talking about an indoor forest, but a few plants here and there can add some colour and life to a room. They’re also great air purifiers!

To keep them looking their best you’ll have to be willing to sacrifice a few minutes of your time, but they’ll pay you back by adding a touch of nature to an otherwise dull space.

KITCHEN TOWELS The two-year rule is a good guideline to be able to tell which ones have served their time. Toss those old rags into the trash!

CARDS, WRAPPING PAPER, OLD STATIONARY

Lighten Up

ADD SOME LIGHT TO

YOUR LIFE BY TIDYING UP! Though the only real seasons we recognize in the Caribbean are wet and dry, rain or shine, the concept of Spring itself serves as the perfect inspiration for change. Time and time again it’s been proven that tidying up, and making room for new things can be life changing, so here are some ideas for brightening up your living space.

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A new paint job might sound like a mammoth task, but sometimes it’s necessary. Particularly if you have kids!

Cover up some of those imperfections that have accumulated over time, and add a refreshing new colour that can uplift your mood. Do some research and find the best colours for encouraging a mellow, cheerful or energetic mood, depending on your preference.

Experiment

Maybe you shopped around for some accessories the first time around, but do they still fit in with your lifestyle?

Things to consider adding or changing include pillows, candles, area rugs, and wall art. If you’re into it, consider adding throws or other accent pieces.

Your kids are now in college.

How likely is it that you’re really going to use that bubble gum print giftwrap roll? And you probably don’t need to be keeping every single card you’ve ever gotten from coworkers, or people you barely know!

Jazz it Up

It’s easy to get used to the way things are, to the extent that you don’t think anything else can work, but that only results in falling into a state of monotony. Do some research on interior designing online and find out how to use existing furniture in different ways to spruce up your space in a cost efficient manner. It may help by taking all the furniture out of the room and starting over. Feel free to explore. Get some friends or family members to help with coming up with ideas if you have to!

HANGERS If they’re bent out of shape, or otherwise disfigured past the point of use, do yourself a favour and get rid of them.

Overall, if there’s any item you’ve questioned yourself about keeping on more than one occasion, it’s probably time to say good-bye.

UNWINE

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SAINT LUCIA’S FINEST WINE SELECTION

CPJ St Lucia Cul-De-Sac, Castries Tel: +1 (758) 458.7551 Fax: +1 (758) 451.5148 custsvc@slu.cpj.com www.cpj.com

SunTempleFood

AVOCADO TOAST – RYE TOAST WITH TOMATO SALSA PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME: 20 MINUTES

SERVES 2

My uncle Cush (Rosemary and Cusho nuts) had an avocado tree at the house where they lived in Trinidad that was a source of joy to him. This tree produced prolifically and during bearing season avocados could be found in varying stages of ripeness all over the house. In the fridge, in the cupboard, in the cloakroom wrapped in brown paper, in the fruit bowl and in a basket waiting to go out the door to give away as the household simply couldn’t consume its bounty. The tree caused all sorts of excitement as from time to time people intent on stealing this rich produce would arrive and cause havoc with the dogs and scaring my aunt. Being the lovely man he was he would always say that all they had to do was ask and he would have shared willingly. He always said it produced so very much because this tree grew over the septic tank. I wonder if it is still there. The avocado I used in this recipe was the same variety and I think it may be “Pollock” but I am unsure. The point is, it is a thing of beauty, tastes like double cream and is HUGE.

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Ingredients Perfectly ripe avocado artfully sliced 2 slices rye bread or Definitely Not bread 2 medium tomatoes cut into small dices 2 salad onions finely sliced 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander or parsley juice of half lemon or lime 2 or 3 tbsp of olive oil Green chilli pepper finely chopped Salt and pepper

Instructions Mix together all the salsa ingredients while you are toasting your bread and slicing your avocado.

Arrange on the toasted bread making sure you use some of the juice from the salsa.

This was a surprisingly filling meal, which kept us going all morning long.

Many people ask how Sun Temple Food came about.

Simple. I experienced a renaissance. I wanted to finally invoke the desire I’d had for years to truly find a way to create food using the rich resources available in the Caribbean and to trust my own instincts and knowledge rather than someone else’s to feed my body and soul. The result is the harnessing and documenting of a growth process, which I feel honoured to share.

BAKED BLACK BEAN CHILLI WITH SWEET POTATOES SERVES 5 OR 6

Ingredients 750g peeled sweet potatoes 75g butter 2tbsp olive oil

EASY MID-WEEK CAPRESE STUFFED MUSHROOMS SERVES 6 AS STARTER, 4 AS MAIN

Ingredients 680g (1.5lbs) fresh mushrooms, bigger is easier 227g (8oz fresh mozzarella) 2 or 3 tbsp basil pesto 1 plump clove garlic minced 100g (3.5 oz) melted butter Approx. 300g (10 oz) roughly chopped fresh toms (cherry toms are best)

Instructions Preheat oven to 170ºC (340ºF) Carefully remove the stalks and lay the mushrooms out on a baking tray or casserole dish. I keep the stalks and chop them up in an omelette or toss them with some garlic and butter or even just salt and pepper for adding to a salad.

Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Liberally brush the inside of each mushroom no matter what its size using all the mixture.

Share the pesto between the mushrooms.

Stuff until popping with the tomato and mozzarella.

Bake until the mushrooms are soft and their juices flowing and the cheese is well melted. About 30 mins depending on your oven.

If you’ve used large mushrooms they can be the main feature of your meal or you can have them beautifully poised on the top of a lunchtime salad. Either way they are delicious and healthy.

3, 400g tins organic natural black beans 1 onion roughly chopped 2 fat garlic cloves pressed 1, 400g tin natural organic chopped tomatoes 1 green chilli finely chopped 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp rose Harissa (optional) 28g fresh coriander chopped 150g mature cheddar cheese grated

Instructions Layer the sweet potatoes, rather than bake them separately, as it makes for a much simpler, one casserole method.

Dot the butter around quite casually, cover loosely with foil and bake for 25/30mins until the sweet potatoes are softish.

Soften the onion in the olive oil and add the garlic and fresh chilli, then a few moments later, the dried spices. I also chose to use fresh green chilli rather than the more usual red chilli powder for this dish.

Once they are all soft and smelling divine, add the tomatoes and fresh coriander, followed by the black beans. Your “chilli” is now assembled.

Spread all of the lovely smelling bean mix onto the waiting sweet potatoes and then sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the top.

Bake in a moderately (180ºC, 350ºF) hot oven for about 30 mins or until everything is bubbling madly.

It's not the most photogenic meal, but don’t judge this one by its looks! The flavour is very rounded and full… It is truly delicious!

For more healthy recipes visit SunTempleFood.com

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TravelLite

I got to hold a starfish, white sea urchin, and conch; it was exciting and the sea creatures were set free! P.S. Nutmeg is a natural hallucinator, so easy on the rum punch!

PARIS OF THE CARIBBEAN Europe with a tinge of Caribbean, and that makes Martinique so unique!

I

By Michele-Lauren Hackshaw

recently embarked on the perfect island getaway, from Saint Lucia to picturesque Martinique, via Wave Riders (Adventure Tours St Lucia). Described as the ‘Martinique Splendour Tour’, my trip was an all inclusive day affair complete with the opportunity to delve into Martinique’s antiquity and shopping, with plenty of time left over for some fun in the sun!

One and a half hours after we left Saint Lucia, we had arrived to the French island of Martinique. Once we’d sorted out currency exchanges and bank transactions, the tour party was given the option of doing a 20 minute guided tour through Fortde-France, with an hour and a half of free time at our disposal after that, or venturing off into the historic town solo for the full two and a half hours.

Not wanting to get lost in foreign territory, I stuck with the group. Our first stop was the beheaded statue of Empress Josephine, Napoleon’s wife. The real Josephine fortunately hadn’t endured such a tragic demise, but the mystery remained unsolved as to why she had no head on the statue. Records show that Josephine was born and bred in Martinique, however, there is contrary evidence to show that the Empress was born in Saint Lucia and moved to Martinique at a young age.

Nearby was the Schoelcher Memorial Library, designed and built in 1887 to be presented at an exposition in Paris in 1889.

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It was then dismantled and conveyed via boat to Fort-deFrance, where rehabilitation was completed in 1893. And, with its vibrant cupola and frontage, it easily makes for one of the most beautiful monuments located in La Savane, Fort-de-France.

Victor Schoelcher donated the library for free access for all the people in Martinique. In 1973, it was officially declared a national monument. I was pleasantly surprised at the antiquated look and feel of the library, with bookshelves towering above the tip-toed reach of even the tallest person. I marveled at the grandour of it all as we walked past an array of carnival costumes inside the library. The display was a prelude to the island’s carnival celebrations held in February every year. Martinique’s carnival is heavily culturally oriented, and typically features traditional instruments and costumes, with freedom serving as the central theme years after the abolition of slavery, in 1848.

Our mini tour came to a halt at a colourful, bustling market.

Welcomed by friendly faces selling local fruit, vegetables and ground provisions, we took a final walk about the market where we found hand-made dolls, souvenirs and jewelry.

At the end of the excursion I couldn’t help but think about how much Martinique felt like the best of both worlds; a quaint French town rich in history, all the while bursting at the seams with Caribbean flavour.

Once back on the Wave Riders boat, we were served lunch, complemented by tropical punch with a hint of rum and nutmeg, with banana flambé for dessert. Our one day Martinique excursion included a swimming and snorkeling expedition that afternoon at Grande Anse Bay. We made one last stop at Diamond Rock, which is home to many sea birds, and much too soon we were packed up and headed back to Saint Lucia!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WAVE RIDERS ADVENTURE TOURS Looking for a getaway?

Embarking on a tour with Wave Riders is the perfect way to escape the norm.

Here’s why!

You can relax and enjoy a day out at sea while the team at Waveriders takes care of all the paperwork, and ensures your day is a breeze!

The Martinique Splendour tour is all-inclusive and includes breakfast, lunch, dessert and a range of drinks.

You just need the essentials: passport, a change of clothes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and of course, your camera!

The Martinique Splendour is only one out of the many tours provided. The company also offers Island Buggy Tours, Rainforest Tours and other boat excursions!

All tours to Martinique depart from the Rodney Bay Marina in Saint Lucia at 8:00a.m. and return at 5:30p.m.

Visit stluciawaveriders.com to find out more!

Saint Lucia Jazz May 12 to May 14

A celebration of Saint Lucian, Caribbean and international jazz music, with events in all parts of the country, culminating with a major concert at the Pigeon Island National Landmark on Mothers’ Day, May 14.

Roots & Soul

June 16 to June 18 Reggae, conscious hip-hop, Afropunk and R&B, with free and paying concerts in various parts of the island, again culminating at the Pigeon Island National Landmark, Fathers’ Day, Sunday June 18. This Festival will also mark the launch of the Carnival Season.

Experience outstanding artistic talent, rich cultural heritage, and unique and exciting culinary creativity like never before at SOLEIL - a Summer of Festivals from May to October 2017.

Saint Lucia Carnival mid June – July

Exotic costumes, pulsating beats, J’Ouvert and the Parade of the Bands on July 17 & 18, with dozens of community events, parties and fetes – a celebration of artistry, colour, culture and creativity.

Saint Lucia Food & Rum Festival August 24 – 27

A gastronomic event attracting the best chefs, wine connoisseurs, rum fanatics and food critiques from the Caribbean and internationally.

Participate in food demonstrations, rum tasting, wine tasting, gourmet dinners and dine-around culinary experiences.

Country & Blues Festival September 15 – 17

An encounter between genres of music that are rooted in folk traditions, with the musician serving as a storyteller and expressing the richness, diversity and modernity of these musical styles.

Arts & Heritage Festival October

A month-long Festival celebrating the richness and diversity of Saint Lucia’s cultural, ethnic and artistic heritage. With musical, theatrical and other performances, varied culinary experiences, street parties and art exhibitions, this Festival will end on the weekend of October 28 – 29 with a celebration of International Creole Day, marking the end of

For more information please visit www.soleilsaintlucia.com or email ecsl@stlucia.org

@SoleilStLuciaSummerFestival

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