SMJ Magazine Fall 2022 Issue #36

or visit www.smjmag.com. For editorials contact atp11th@gmail.com

It was Issue No. 29/Summer 2020 where Andrew and I both thought of the same quote from Charles Dickens to describe the beginning of the pandemic. “It was the best of times and the worst of times.”

We were all witness to a health crisis that was overtaking the entire globe, and even now, we are still not completely rid of COVID-19. In addition, we have seen an alarming rise of right-wing reactionary politics and social posturing plus a full scale war in Eastern Europe that is closing in on nine months.

Closer to home we are hearing of a mushrooming housing crisis (which Andrew and I experienced first-hand), a growing food crisis, a continual energy crisis, and a looming recession certain to hit us as early as the New Year.

How best to cope with all this? To keep on using our gifts and talents to continue doing at SMJ what we have done for every issue since our first: to publish original ‘good news approach’ stories…and…showcase inspiring and uplifting stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things; to dream bigger, reach higher and achieve greater. As you will see in this issue, SMJ has been rewarded for its consistent excellence!!

The collaborations and partnerships that I have always spoken about seeking out even impacted SMJ and mirrored Dickens’ times. One of them mentioned last issue died not long after our ninth anniversary celebration. Yet what a celebration it was. Recognizing nine years in publishing was the highlight of summer 2022. We really felt the love from

those that attended, and those that sent in heartfelt wishes in their absence.

The new writer we introduced last issue, Paula Griffith, has outdone herself with poignant piece on someone who was her mentor, John T. Davis. (Andrew tells me it might be even better than the exclusive he did on his mentor last issue!).

Some familiarity is back starting with this column. About the Town with SMJ returns, along with Dr. Lisa Ramsackal’s Your Health is Your Wealth

The last few years have been hard and the crises mentioned above have resulted in many social purpose organizations to pivot online. However, it quickly became apparent that not everyone had equal and equitable access to the internet, and those that had access did not have the digital know how, funding and infrastructure to keep companies moving forward.

October 16 – 22 was Small Business Week in Ontario and across the country. I had the privilege of presenting awards to two outstanding business women through The Society of Professional Accountants of Canada. I reported on that event in this issue, as well as my latest award that I was honored to receive, courtesy of the Hon. Jean Augustine, a former

front cover story (Issue No. 6/Fall 2014). Small businesses are the backbone of the Canadian economy and diverse women entrepreneurs play an important role in the small business landscape.

We are leading into National Entrepreneurship Month as well as gender-based violence month in November, culminating in 16 days of activism November 25th to December 10th. This year’s focus is Fund, Respond, Prevent and Collect.

To find out more about the other products and services I provide, please visit www.shopwaucollection.ca or the Canada Black Owned Marketplace, Erin Mills Town Centre Mississauga Ontario.

By: Andrew Terry Pasieka

Like many movie goers of the Baby Boomer and Generation X eras, I became aware of Sidney Poitier in 1967 the way many had become aware of Beatlemania in 1964: all of a sudden. In 1967 alone he made To Sir, With Love; Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner; and In the Heat of the Night , groundbreaking films all of them. Consider the bare plot lines:

• A black man is a high school teacher to all white teenagers in the underbelly of London, England.

• A black man is engaged to a beautiful young rich white ingénue.

• A black man who is a police officer from the north slaps a plantation owner from the south after he is himself slapped.

Consider also this ’black man’ was playing in a leading role in all three films. Yet because they all were released in the same year, his exploding popularity even among his peers was his own undoing. Competing against himself in three major motion pictures, he failed to earn an Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

Even as I followed his career from a distance, I would come to learn that 1967 was not the measure of a man, only three snapshots of his greatness.

Sidney Poitier was one of the most gifted and charismatic actors the cinema has known. But acting was not the sum of his parts. The actor stopped acting, became a director, then stopped directing and became a producer. He played three mutually exclusive roles as stages of his artistic life.

Director Reginald Hudlin and Producer Oprah Winfrey provide a definitive portrait of this legendary actor. It includes extensive interviews with the man himself prior to his death at age 94 in January of this year. This sweeping documentary surveys Poitier’s films as a backdrop to his life story, and a litany of accomplishments as an artist and activist who forever changed what it means to be Black in America.

He was born two months premature while his Bahamian family was visiting Miami. Poitier’s own words provide the narration, getting a glimpse of rare footage from his life beyond Hollywood, of a boy born to tomato farmers. What was little known but not surprising given the times was that everyone attending the birth said that Sidney was not expected to survive. His father left the house early the following morning and returned later with a shoe box, where “they were prepared to tuck me away.”

Moving to the U.S. at age 15, he quickly learned the brutal realities of the Jim Crow era. Poitier speaks of his early experiences with racism, but also found his passion for acting, first to the theater in New York, and eventually the movies. Director Hudlin weaves together a rich mix of archive footage and contemporary interviews with a stellar group of subjects — Halle Berry, Denzel Washington, Spike Lee, and Oprah Winfrey herself. Both of

Sidney At TIFF 2022

Sidney Poitier was one of the most gifted and charismatic actors the cinema has known. But acting was not the sum of his parts. The actor stopped acting, became a director, then stopped directing and became a producer.

Poitier’s wives and some of his children also speak. Poitier’s contemporaries and the holders of his legacy detail just how extraordinary his rise was.

An early threshold was achieved at the expense of Harry Belafonte, who became a lifelong friend. Actors at the American Negro Theatre had day jobs besides what little they could earn on stage. In one production Belafonte had a major part and Poitier was his understudy. One day Sidney had to fill in for Harry because Belafonte was a garbage man and was called in for a shift at the last minute. A Broadway producer was in the audience for that performance and cast Poitier in his upcoming production. Belafonte always liked to say that Sidney Poitier’s ticket to Broadway was built on garbage.

Early success in New York and Hollywood was tempered by a deeply personal struggle that came from the values of life as a man, husband, and father as taught to him by his father while married to his first wife. He made a film in 1962 called Paris Blues with the charismatic real-life husband-and-wife team of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, a terrific cameo from Satchmo himself, Louie Armstrong, and a young black woman who was his love interest in the film, Diahann Carroll. During the filming Sidney felt an intense connection with Carroll and by the time the picture wrapped, the love interest became real.

Poitier’s dilemma was not immediately acted upon, because his rise to stardom occurred in tandem with his commitment to social change. He marched for civil rights in Washington, D.C. in August 1963 with Martin Luther King Jr. alongside Harry

Belafonte and movie stars like Newman and Marlon Brando. He said, “I became interested in the civil rights movement out of a necessity to survive.”

Still, 1963 provided Poitier a watershed moment in Hollywood. He was the first Black actor to be nominated for a leading role Oscar and the first to win one, for Lillies of the Field . Ironically, the role of Homer Smith illustrated juxtaposition again with Belafonte. Harry turned down the part because he felt the character ‘didn’t have a connection to the real world.’ After receiving the Best Actor statuette, Sidney exclaimed, “It has been a long journey to this moment…”

By the Academy Awards of 1968, Sidney Poitier is feeling the heat of his own fame, especially with headlines like one that appeared in the New York Times, “Why do white people love Sidney Poitier so?”

The heat was turned up more just a couple of month later with the April 1968 assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Poitier and Belafonte had a falling out which lasted a few years due to a disagreement on making a statement after the funeral. Another personal break-up was his separation from his first wife, but before the divorce was long finalized his rebound to Diahann Carroll failed as well, since they both realized it was doomed to be nothing more than a good friendship.

There were two very pleasant seconds in Sidney’s life, his second marriage to Canadian/French actress Joanna Shimkus, and memorable footage when Washington became the second Black Best Actor winner on the same night that Poitier received an honorary Oscar. They both saluted each other.

Poitier’s reinvented himself in later years in the other stages of his artistic life alluded to earlier. He became a director of studio comedies, which peaked with the 1980 Gene Wilder/ Richard Pryor comedy classic Stir Crazy. He then became a producer when he, Newman, and Barbra Streisand formed First Artists. Poitier ensured that hundreds of blacks found work in the industry behind the camera. When asked why he gave up a lucrative acting career when the others were initially risky, his illuminating reply was, “Success has a way of insulating you.”

In a world that so desperately needed the integrity that Poitier brought the world on a daily basis, Sidney never loses sight of what a beacon of hope he was. His iconic status remains firm because icons just will themselves to a different level…

(TIFF commentaries on Sidney from David Voigt and Stephen Silver)

It was important to teach my vocal students how to understand the full significance of Leonard Cohen’s lyrics, so they could convey the intention of that iconic song by the Canadian singer-songwriter to an audience. To reach my highest level of expression as a singer, songwriter, and performer, learning from my mentors taught me to find and live by the hidden harmony within my heart.

One of my most cherished friends and mentors was John T. Davis; a high-profile musician in Toronto and the U.S. and a music legend to me. I have been feeling nostalgic this year with his passing. As a man respected for his spirituality he once said, “Without the church there would have been no music.” I say this as ‘Hallelujah’ again plays in my mind.

I believe our paths crossed by design. On the set of the ‘50-cent lifetime’ movie, we were both waiting for our call to join a scene as extras. We were in close quarters when bumped my elbow by accident and said in

an unmistaken southern drawl, “Excuse me, sorry miss”. I recognized his Virginia accent from a wedding I recently sang at in the U.S., and asked if he was from there. He didn’t act surprised when he answered, “Yes I am,” but he caught me off guard when he added, “I think you’re a great singer.”

He appeared to be in his 60’s, while I was still in my 20’s. It was circa 2007; fifteen years in my rear view mirror. I was listening to r ‘n b, rock, and jazz, and was starting to transition out of gospel, even though Christian music was still a primary focus. I knew nothing about him, but it looked like he came straight from Preservation Hall, New Orleans. Somehow I knew I could completely trust him. I told people I knew in the industry and people I was working with that I had met John T. Davis. I got positive comments about his reputation, where they knew him from, and all the jazz luminaries he had on his resume. It confirmed my first impression of him.

Our first session was at his brownstone on King St. in downtown Toronto. It feels like yesterday looking up at those 12-foot cathedral ceilings, the red, green, and taupe walls adorned with African paintings and his prized possession: a signed autographed photo of him and James Brown. The moment I stepped into his smoke-tinged room with dusty windows, this living painting was further heightened by the haunting sounds of John T. on his Hammond B3 organ.

“Now I’ve heard there was a secret chord… That David played, and it pleased the Lord… But you don’t really care for music, do ya?”

(Hallelujah)

The MUSIC and the MANTLE of By Paula Griffith

Our recognition as musical soul mates was instant and miraculous. At one point during the session he declared, “I’m going to teach you how to sing.” Even though I found this paradoxical at the time, I knew deep down I was the luckiest girl in the world to have found someone willing to teach me everything he knew about music.

He didn’t say jazz music, he just said music, but I wonder now if that is what he inferred. Or perhaps he saw me as a blank canvas with the opportunity to paint me into a portrait of a singer he knew I could be. When he said that I was a great singer the day we met, it was without hearing me sing. He wasn’t just saying it; it was like he already saw the potential of the singer I could be.

He taught me the secrets of how the great vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, and Della Reese created masterful sounds inserting their own unique vocal colorings and infused spiritual messages into their performances to captivate their listeners. Jazz singers, more than any other genre, know to use their gift as another instrument. He introduced me to Toronto’s jazz scene so I could apply what I had learned.

The first few times I went there I didn’t sing. I listened to him talk and play the piano and sing. Sometimes all at the same time! One of the first things he taught me was that everything is all about subtlety. His signature song was ‘Glory Man.’ It was the first thing he wrote when he arrived in Toronto in 1970. It’s about a woman who is waiting for her man to come home from war. I heard later from a man who had played with John T that John was a draft dodger. The day he asked me to sing it he said that it needed to be sung by a female voice. It was weird; I sang it like I was already familiar with it. I interpreted it the same way he was hearing it in his head.

The first night he took me out it was to the ‘Boiler House’ at the Distillery entertainment district. It was one of the best nights of my life. It was a bit nerve-wracking for me to perform the songs he taught me, but I trusted his guidance. To my shock the crowd went crazy. As he accompanied me on the piano, he rocked side to side with a toothy grin yelling, “It’s you Paula!” He looked like a proud music papa.

Today I proclaim: “it was you John T....A true artist. You lived for the music and not for the glory of fame! You wanted to give your music to the people the way you were given the music. I got to witness a real artist and received your gifts firsthand. It was you who played for James Brown in the

‘Blues Brothers ’ film; it was you who played in Mariah Carey’s story of her life in the film ‘Glitter ;’ it was you who in the 1970s started the jazz scene in Canada at The Rex. It was you who wrote ‘ Glory Man ,’ your greatest song. A love song for the people, you said. I was honored when you chose me to sing it.

One day at rehearsal, his smile disappeared into his silver goatee, “Paula, I believe you will carry on my music.” I took that charge seriously.

He taught me the secrets of how the great vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, and Della Reese created masterful sounds inserting their own unique vocal colorings and infused spiritual messages into their performances to captivate their listeners. Jazz singers, more than any other genre, know to use their gift as another instrument.

What John T stood for was more than his musicianship or the music he performed or the inspired brilliance of his signature piece. It was how he approached his craft, how he spoke of his profession, and how he conducted himself in the public eye relating to both. That was his way of building his legacy, and I realize that is the way I want to build mine. All these years later I realize that I must record ‘Glory Man’ someday.

The truth lessons that I learned from John T. always found their way back into my music and I can now pass them along to my students to sing for a higher purpose.

Lately, it has been a difficult life lesson to share. I’m not sure if it’s the current digital landscape in social media or the pressure of creating a famous identity, but sadly, over the past few years I’ve seen an increase in anxious young singers striving to achieve their ideas of glory.

The passion for music and being able to communicate an inspirational message isn’t the motivating force any longer.

Still, the mystical meaning behind Leonard Cohen’s perspective on the biblical story of King David’s

heartbreaking journey to glory was a revelation on how we can overcome challenges to achieve our true greatness.

John T.’s wings continue to guide me in this endeavor as I look into the eyes of one of my most talented students who is on the verge of major stardom.

Azalyne, my 15-year-old Jazz/R&B student with whom I’ve worked since she was 8 will be the subject of my next story as she takes up the mantle of ‘Glory Man.’

There are some nights when I wonder how my ‘Glory Man’ is doing. Wherever John T. is, I am sure there is sunshine because he lived his life playing the secret chord that pleased the Lord.

Hallelujah.

Registered Professional Accountants

Celebrate Small Business Week

By Shelley Jarrett

“RPA Canada strongly supports women entrepreneurs who are hardworking and motivated to make their small business successful. It is our goal to encourage women to start small businesses that will empower women across our society,” Zubair Choudhry, President & CEO of RPA Canada.

In 2019 I was blessed and truly honored to be among the inaugural winners in receiving the RPA women’s entrepreneur award for my outstanding work in the business community.

Every October since then, RPA Canada pays tribute to women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to our communities. Five women entrepreneurs are recognized for their outstanding contributions to the business community.

This year as part of the awards select committee I was honored to present two awards. The first was presented to Kathy Legault owner of PeppK9 Training located in Fort Erie Ontario. The second award I presented to Alanna McGinn of Goodnight Sleep located in Oakville Ontario.

These women provide well-paying local jobs within our communities and create opportunities for their products and services. All this brings economic stability and build communities.

On hand to witness this was the Honorable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and Member of Parliament for Hamilton West-Ancaster-Dundas.

She made the following important comment.

“The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of investing in women entrepreneurs and has made substantial investments in the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy. We know that unlocking the potential of women is a key driver in economic growth and job creation. This investment is great for women and great for the economy.”

She was the Guest of Honor and delivered the keynote speech highlighting the Canadian Government’s economic plans for postpandemic recovery and support measures for women in business.

Ms. Iqra Khalid, MP and Ms. Nina Tangri, MPP brought greetings from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier Doug Ford of Ontario respectively.

The Society of Professional Accountants of Canada

48 Village Centre Place, Suite 100, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4Z1V9

Telephone: 416 350 8145

E-mail: Info@rpacanada.org Web site: http://rpacanada.org

SMJ MAGAZINE FALL 2022

ONE OF 100 ACCOMPLISHED Black Canadian Women 2022

By Shelley Jarrett

First of all, I must give out a big thank you to the organizers behind this prestigious honor, the Hon. Jean Augustine, the first elected Black Woman in Canadian Parliament, author Dauna Jones-Simmonds, and Dr. Denise O’Neil Green.

Special thanks to my hubby Andrew, who is my best friend, understands me so well, and allows me to be the person God has called me to be.

Finally, thanks to Almighty God, who is the head of my life and gives me the creative abilities to transfer and interchange my gifts and talents.

I consider my influence across social media platforms to be consistent. I keep my followers engaged and wanting for more. I provide personal and professional posts to inspire and create raw and honest responses. This work can be very time consuming; however, the rewards are icing to my virtual networking recipes of information.

I pivoted during the pandemic to promote and sell online products and services to support women with their startup business. It gives me great pleasure to offer women the same things I learnt twelve years ago when I left corporate and took an in-person entrepreneurial course.

I want my contributions to especially reach young women who are looking for guidance. I want to leave a legacy that’s says, ‘If she can do it, so can I.’

For more information, go to www.100abcwomen.ca

It was hard to believe that it had been four years since we that exclusive interview with Yousif Albeer and his two sons Yaser and Hussain on their five generation family textile business, Yaser & Mayasa (SMJ Issue No. 22, Fall 2018). We were making ambitious plans for working together on a major project in 2020, the company’s 100th anniversary. But then something called COVID-19 happened and the world suddenly closed down, then went through a whirlwind of continual setbacks with each succeeding variant and wave.

For Yousif Albeer, he and his family were safely in Dubai as the world went into lockdown, theirs lasting 45 consecutive days. Many companies either closed or lay off staff, but Yaser & Mayas took the opposite approach.

”I told my staff they were with a safe company. Everybody could stay and everyone was going to get paid, but we all had to commit to transforming our business online.” Yousif said his sons, being younger, were always open to try new things, but even they shared Yousif’s initial wariness with going online. He was worried because

the fabric part of fashion & design is probably the most ’touching, feeling’ part of the industry. Even though there were no guarantees there was no choice because the pandemic was now entrenched throughout the world.

Well, not to worry. Over the past two years, Yaser & Mayasa’s business has grown by 30%; in the years before the corona virus, annual growth varied from 5 to 10%. This was a 50 to 100% year-over-year improvement. So we guess that that biblical saying “out of bad cometh good” has some merit.

Another example occurred just before the pandemic struck. A lot of import companies in the textile business were courting China as the ‘next huge market’ and were jostling for an inside track. Yaser & Mayasa acted as though they already had been given the green light and filled their storerooms with inventory. When China opened the market Yaser & Mayasa was ready to move. Rival importers were left scrambling to catch up, some as many as three months later. Yousif said this was an important skill he learned from his father and grandfather.

“When something happens to slow down or shake the economy, I was taught that it is not a time to stop, but a time to move boldly forward. I encourage my family and staff the same thing now. Go ahead, don’t worry, corona will go away, if not today, then tomorrow or some other tomorrow.”

Another beautiful by-product of the pandemic is that the ‘business family’ got more time to spend together as just family. They also formed closer bonds with their clients, both newer and long-standing, because of the more frequent phone or internet contact, Zoom meetings, etc.

They have always believed in sharing their harvest and paying it forward, and it has never been more acute than now. The worldrenowned Sick Kids’ Hospital in Toronto badly needs a makeover, and more than just a face lift. There newest wing is 45 years old. It is time for an ambitious project: to rise up a new Sick Kids.

Yaser & Mayasa have made donations in previous years, but wanted to do something big for this project, because Sick Kids “is not a small name in the world.” They have decided to collaborate with young authors who want to publish their books with the goal of raising monies from their sales going to Sick Kids. Yousif says they are approaching top designers and celebrities in Dubai for sponsorships, and to do a gala book launching and fashion show in Dubai in March 2023.

“I was working with my grandfather from four years of age. I saw how much in love he was with fabrics. I graduated as a mechanical engineer with honors from England. My father gave me a choice, but I chose to apply my skills in the family textile business. I gave my two sons the same choice. Yaser is an engineering graduate and Hussain is an economics graduate. They have made the same choice I did. They were not forced. I think the reason our family business is still strong as our sixth generation is just being born is that we allow our children to join our business when they are still children, to see what it is we do and why we love it so. I think that is why succeeding generations in other family businesses fail.”

Never standing still, Yaser & Mayasa are undertaking other initiatives. They have started online lectures on their fabrics, how they are made, what are their advantages, and how best they should be used. An offshoot of that are innovations in fabrics, specifically recycled fabrics. One comes from vegetables and wood called sorona, very soft with a beautiful finish. Another is polyester that comes from plastic bottles collected as garbage from the sea, first developed by a company in Paris, with Yaser & Mayasa buying franchises for Canada and Dubai.

Another initiative was developing an incubator program of sorts for young models. It behooved Yaser & Mayasa to start making designs out of their fabrics as another way to showcase them to prospective clients. Thanks to African Fashion Week Toronto (AFWT), they have been able to secure the services of three lovely young women who are the subjects of the following sidebar story.

A final word from Yousif Albeer on the spiritual connection he feels with his father and grandfather looking down on him and inspiring him.

What a legacy Yaser & Mayasa are building. From keeping their family business as strong as ever, to growing their business even faster online, to developing innovative fabrics, to giving a leg up to young models striving to succeed in the ultra-competitive fashion industry, to being the ultimate philanthropists for a world class health organization. Bravo!

Go to: www.yaserandmayasa.com

“When you make other people happy you feel the happiness in your heart.”

We first met Carine Ehe, Diana Muperery, and Joanna Thompson on the red carpet at the African Fashion 10th Anniversary Industry awards of the decade last August 28th. Almost a month to the day later they were modelling for us at the stylish, mansion-like home of Yousif Albeer, the current patriarch of Yaser & Mayasa Textiles. They are part of a very interesting initiative first described in the article preceding this one.

The three come to this setting and this career with some differences, even though they referred to themselves more than once in the interview as ‘sisters.’ Carine hails from Togo, West Africa by way of France which is one reason she says she has unofficially been in modelling five years. Diana comes from Zimbabwe, South Africa for the purposes of post-secondary education which she hasn’t started yet. She has been in modelling three years. Joanna comes from Guyana, arriving in Canada alone to for college. She is just past one year modelling.

Interestingly enough, all three women say their influence for getting interested in modelling comes from within. Diana says she feels energized every morning she gets up knowing she is doing something that day, even if it is just helping someone in a fitting for a photo shoot or a runway. Joanna has a jewelry craft business on the side and says that any day she is working on her business or has an idea about the business gives her a charge. For Carine, it is just taking charge of her ensemble for the day; it is like dressing for a personal runway.

What feelings do you have as you begin to walk the runway? They all said in one way or another that they feel some sort of power or just feel powerful, knowing that all eyes are on them. And, Diana adds, someone may be making a decision to become a model because they saw one of them.

What about the walk? Is it different from one runway to the next? They all mention it often is determined by the confidence they feel in the outfit they are wearing. Diana says sometimes she embraces her ‘queen’ at the end of a walk and gives her audience a glimpse of that at her final stop and pose before she exits.

So what happens when you don’t feel the outfit? Joanna first says you have to still approach it like a job because there is a designer that wants that piece properly showcased. Diana is a bit more optimistic, saying that she sometimes starts warming up to the outfit as she is ’walking it,’ and may feel very different at the end. Carine, who has been ‘unofficially’ modelling longer than the others, has the slightly more professional approach by saying one should not get too hung up on the outfit but should concentrate on there being an opportunity to model.

Rejection is a huge part of modelling. They have all experienced it in one form or another. How have they overcome it so far? Diana says that she holds it back and lets her emotions out in private later, so as not to show weakness in public. But in the end, “No one can tell me I am bad except me.” Carine agrees with the latter. “You just have to be confident in your own abilities.” Joanna echoes the other two. “It’s a mental thing. You got to know who you are. Look at rejection as one opportunity closer to acceptance.”

It was suggested that a negative could be turned into a positive if rejected by asking for feedback. Carine said she was actually in a casting where feedback was provided for all who auditioned, but this seldom happens. Joanna agreed that showing the casting director that you are open to constructive criticism was a good tactic. Dianna pointed out that every situation is unique and you should be careful that some are not interested in any conversation.

Finally what do they say to AFWT and Yousif Albeer who have given these opportunities? It was either God bless them or they are a God send. They all feel they have brought the ‘sisters’ one big step closer to what they all want to do, to be modelling internationally. Oh yes, and Hollywood too, exclaims Diana!

Dresses above by Yaser & Mayasa Jewellry by www.elizabethclassics.com

AWARDS of the DECADE

By Andrew Terry Pasieka

African Fashion Week Toronto (AFWT) celebrated their 10th anniversary with an eight day extravaganza spread out over several locations. The in-person event was the first since 2019, as the 2020 and 2021 shows were virtual. By far the most daring (and spectacular!) was an outdoor runway at Yonge-Dundas Square, but more on that elsewhere in this issue.

The African Fashion Industry Awards (AFIA) returned to the site of an earlier time in AFWT history, posh midtown Isabel Bader Theatre on Charles Street West, just north of Queen’s Park and across the street from a venue of a previous year, the Royal Ontario Museum.

The AFIA was created to celebrate and support the Afro Fashion Industry in Canada and abroad through the recognition and promotion of outstanding achievement and emerging talent in Canadian fashion. AFIA is dedicated to generating a stronger appreciation of the Canadian Afrocentric market both nationally and internationally.

The afternoon began with a red carpet and then moved to the theatre proper for the handing out of 13 individual awards. This being the 10th anniversary, all winners were chosen for their work over the decade. We want to single out a few highlights, in no particular order. He has been called the King of Couture and the godfather of African fashion. Adebayo Jones, multi award winning fashion designer, educator & TV host, has been front and center of almost every AFWT. For several years he had a major runway collection as part of the awards ceremony and the closing day. He recalls the first year like it was yesterday, and described AFWT as “a beacon of light and hope for creatives.” Jones was presenting the International Designer Brand of the Decade, and the winner was Afriken by Nana (Ghana).

Staying with designers, the winner of Men’s Wear Brand of the Decade was Zalahari (Presenter = Faith Biyapo, TD Bank, Regional Manager for Black community development), and for Ladies Wear Brand of the Decade Kaela Kay was victorious (Presenters = Joan Pierre, CEO & Nicole Waldron, Event Planning Specialist). Kaela Kay said she was so grateful to be out again and interacting with others in the profession that it was a victory in itself. That is why she will not take this honor for granted. It was touching how she mentioned the unsung but important role her spouse has played in her rise to prominence.

We would be remiss without mentioning an impassioned spiritually-tinged acceptance speech by Angela of Angela’s Beauty Box, who told of her extremely modest beginnings, her steadfastness in travelling the long road to success, and her underlying theme of remaining humble. She was the Hair

Beauty Professional of the Decade, as presented by Isaac Ansah, AFWT Co-Founder & CEO of Imagn Brands.

An emotional climax came with the presentation of the final award, Face of AFWT of the Decade. The winner was Racquel Hamlet, and the audience got to see first-hand the closeness of the entire AFWT team who did the presenting. Racquel probably spoke for all on stage when she said that no matter what role she is asked to play in future AFWTs, she would be there.

Other winners are listed below.

• Female Model of the Decade (Nini Amerlise) Presenter: Racquel Hamlet, FACE of AFWT 2022

• Male Model of the Decade (Damilola Omotayo) Presenter: Tome, Juno Award winning singer songwriter

• Fashion Photographer of the Decade (CJ Cromwell) Presenter: Yomi Atobatele, BMO Bank Manager of black entrepreneurs

• Accessories Designer of the Decade (Bohten) Presenter: Francis Delsol, Trade & Investment Commissioner for the Commonwealth of Dominica

• Fashion Stylist of the Decade (Yomi Styling) Presenters: Brenda Foreman (Honorary Consul for St. Kitts & Nevis / Creative Director for AFWT) & Ben Johnson (2 time Olympian medalist & International Entrepreneur)

• Cosmetic Beauty Brand of the Decade (Paba Cosmetics) Presenters: Glen Joseph (Founder of AIM Academy) & Rayon Brown (President & Founder of HNIC : Helping Neighborhoods Implement Change)

• Fashion Influencer of the Decade (Jalen Nelson, Lick My Fashion) Presenter: Gary Gunter (General Manager at Flow98.7)

Finally, we have been on our own journey at SMJ Magazine. We are in our tenth year of continuous publishing; the ninth anniversary just celebrated a month before AFWT. Underlying the work has been a continued dedication towards excellence. For example, we have written almost 20 stories covering almost 60 pages of AFWT content in SMJ. We were rewarded for that coverage!!

• Media Company of the Decade (SMJ Magazine) Presenters: Petrenilla Degrasse & Prince Aryee, Luvbay Radio

A decade after their inception, African Fashion Week Toronto is that ‘beacon of light’ many Canadian artists look up to as a stepping stone or plateau in elevating their creative career journey.

We at SMJ have been proud to shine our spotlight on them. We are honored that they have now shone their light on us!

By Anna Lanado

Canadian fashion enthusiasts interested in afrocentric fashion styles were ecstatic when African Fashion Week Toronto returned as an in-person event this year. From August 21 to 28, the models wearing the beautiful clothes from African designers graced the runways. On Friday the 26th they were walking a special runway in downtown Toronto at YongeDundas Square.

The talent, dedication and attention to detail that the designers put into the garments was obvious. The designs, particularly the ones that I personally saw, had the signature African emphasis on vibrant and colourful patterns. Typically, when there are too many colours in juxtaposition to each other, they tend to be overwhelming and excessive. However, the ingenious textile designs and strategic cuts of the garments ingeneously make the colours work together in a way that is exquisitely kaleidoscopic.

In addition to the excellent work put into the clothes itself, the models themselves did an amazing job in both presenting the outfits and exemplified how genuinely fun fashion shows can be. I noticed the models themselves were diverse ages and body types and they all excelled. It was evident that each of the models were having the time of their lives and also knew how to bring the best out of the garments, according to their

different styles of walks. Some in a sultry saunter, others a more upbeat spring in each step and all confident. As I said before, all for the sake of diversity.

Consumers today are increasingly becoming more aware of what they want, that their clothes should fit the body, not the other way around. This is why there has been an influx of clothing brands reflecting the diversity of body types, with brands putting emphasis on their inclusivity. However, these are mostly newer fashion companies, appealing to a younger crowd. Most high end luxury designer brands stick to the restrictive small sizing standard and their models still reflect that. This creates a feeling of exclusivity that only some bodies are worthy and that all others should comply.

I’m very pleased that such a growing fashion event as African Fashion Week, especially in such a large fashion influential city like Toronto, respects diversity in ages and body shapes. I’m delighted that the designers behind African Fashion Week Toronto took the initiative to be one of the firsts to do so at such a great and lively show.

(Editor’s Note: Congratulations Anna on such a good first effort as a fashion writer! Anna is only fourteen years old, and comes to us courtesy of our Fashion & Design Editor, Claris C. Manglicmot.)

Go to Instagram @cca_canada

SMJ

Upon the invitation of Agnes Miranda, the current Director of Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDC), the organization hosted the runway for two Filipino Canadian designers this past August 13th. Nathan Phillips Square was ablaze with lights, a runway and a big multimedia screen ready for the models to showcase the beautiful creations of Tristan Licud and Allyson Ped.

Couture Culture and Arts (CCA) wants to extend our thanks to The Horizons Canada Productions and Mindanao Weave, our co-producers. Without their support the two runway productions would not have been successful.

The night’s runway show was opened by the Maharlika Collection of Tristan Licud under his brand TFL Couture. As usual Tristan’s talent and creativity never fails to amaze me. He did his 10-looks collection in two days. I cannot wait for the next showcase of these collections. Tristan is growing this collection into even more fascinating looks.

The second show was the debut collection of a new face in fashion design, Allyson Ped. Her collection was in pairs showcasing the street look and its avant-garde counterpart.

The excitement of the long pause without fashion shows and the apprehensions of COVID-19 has been a battle for over two years. Finally, most fashion organizers decided to stop the waiting and do fashion runways outdoors.

It was so dramatic seeing the collections in pairs. For a closer look the models came back in solos.

The fashion show was concluded by the tapestry collection of Renee Salud, a talented designer from the Philippines, who has taken part in fashion shows around the world.

Go

to Instagram @cca_canada

Creative Team Credits: “MAHARLIKA” (A Malong Couture Collection) by: TFL Couture Tristan Licud

Photography and Videography: Belle Bunag of Intrinsiq www.bellebunag.com

Runway Producer: PIDC (Agnes Pasaporte Miranda)

Production Producer: Couture Culture & Arts - CCA

Co-Producer: Mindanao Weave

Creative Director: Claris Minas Manglicmot

Choreographers: Meghan Durnford & Clarc Manglicmot

Hair and Make-Up: Olga Ignatenko

Production and Technical Managers: Charie La Plana, Allona Pingol and Jose Pingol

On-Set Dresser: Dani Ruddock

TFL Couture Models:

Anna I (ICON)

Filip B. (Morgan)

Jasmin K. (Morgan)

Dalton (ICON)

Parmis N. (Morgan)

Clarc M. (Freelance)

Jocelynn P. (Morgan)

Lochlyn (ICON)

Tatiana (ICON)

Mariana P. (Morgan)

DEBUT RUNWAY COLLECTION:

Allyson Ped x Allyson Gail Ped Photography and Videography: Belle Bunag of Intrinsiq www.bellebunag.com

Runway Producer: PIDC (Agnes Miranda) Production Producer: Couture Culture and Arts (CCA)

Special thanks to ICON Model Management & Morgan Model Management; Accessories by Jewels Box

Co-Producer: Horizons Canada Productions

Creative Director: Claris M. Manglicmot

Choreographers: Meghan Dunford & Clarc Manglicmot

Hair and Make-Up: Olga Ignatenko

Production and Technical Managers: Charie La Plana, Allona Pingol and Jose Pingol

On-Set Dresser: Dani Ruddock

Allyson Ped Models: 1. Tristan L. 2. Katie M. (Freelance) 3. Imani Ashanti R. (Morgan) 4. Victory (ICON) 5. Regan (ICON) 6. Elizabeth (Walk in) 7. Clarc M. (Freelance) 8. Filip B. (Morgan) 9. Mariana P. (Morgan) 10. Kelly M. (Freelance)

Special thanks to ICON Model Management & Morgan Model Management

By Michelle Moore (Entertainment/Lifestyle Reporter)

I first discovered this young talented musician using his gifts for the glory of God, in Hamilton Ontario at KWC (Kingdom Worship Center) church. I immediately saw the joy on his face while his fingers tickled the keys of the piano, as sweet melodies filled the air!

I thought to myself....this young man’s gift is undeniable and it was at that moment I decided that it would be a good idea to connect with him on social media in order to find more about him & his gift for music!

His name is Sasona Olusola, and I had the pleasure of interviewing him.

SMJ: What age where you when you knew you were musically inclined?

Sasona Olusola: I was around 6 or 7 years old when my dad bought me my first keyboard and a teacher. From that moment on the inclination was realized.

SMJ: Can you tell us what inspired you to start playing music?

Sasona Olusola: Growing up my parents were both my

inspiration. They always listened to a variety of music even though they weren’t musicians. I remember as far back as age 3 my Dad used to play jazz artist such as George Benson, Kenny G, Dave Koz, Gerald Albright in the house and in his car. He also listened to bits of hip hop, new jack swing, pop and lots of Gospel. My mom was an R&B and Gospel fanatic as well.

SMJ: As a young Christian musician, what struggles and victories can you share with our readers?

Sasona Olusola: I start by saying as a young Christian it is not easy to be a musician because the devil is very much ok with you playing music. So far it is for God. I struggled a lot when it came to faith because people doubted me in my Christian community. I faced a lot of rejection, abandonment and I got knocked down many times because I was different but God used all of this to build me

to be a strong soldier for his kingdom. I can add these 3 points.

#1 anything you are trying to do without God is a lost cause.

#2 remain humble because without humility growth becomes stagnant.

#3 it is very important to keep a consistent prayer life.

SMJ: How did your family encourage you on your path to the music industry?

Sasona Olusola: At first it was tough for them because of the kind of environment and culture they were used to but over time they learned to adapt and began supporting me.

SMJ: Who are your favorite musicians? Why?

Sasona Olusola: I honestly don’t have any favorites....I try to glean from all the greats such Thelonious Monk, Art Tatum , Kevin Bond, Miles Davis just to name a few. I feel that it is better to be a sponge and soak up all the different talent that has come before me to improve my craft!

SMJ: What is your vision for the next 5 years?

Sasona Olusola: My vision for the next 5 years is to try rebuilding and restoring music back to being a thing of emotions such as love and happiness and to promote the message.

SMJ: What advice would you offer to anyone who would like to become a Christian musician?

Sasona Olusola: Model your life and practice after God and his Word. Let him always be your source in anything.

SMJ: Do you have any upcoming projects you are working on, that you would like to share with our readers? Where can our readers hear your music?

Sasona Olusola: I am currently working on a Jazz Christmas album and would be sharing the date on all social media platforms soon. So stay tuned! I promote all music and fun s tuff on my social media platforms. You can follow me on Instagram @osmuzic.My linktree is linktr.ee/Osmusic/ And you can find me on YouTube by searching Sasona Olusola

By Dr. Lisa Ramsackal

As I get older, I think more and more about happiness. Quality of life becomes more of a focus and happiness plays a big part in living a long and healthy life.

I am fortunate, grateful and blessed to have a good career, a loving family and a nice home. There is much to be happy for. Yet happiness is much more than that. Rather, it’s more about who we are, our character, and our beliefs and values. So when we think about happiness, we really need to take a good look at ourselves.

Happiness is subjective. What makes me happy may be different than what makes you happy. So how do we determine where we fall on the “happiness spectrum”? Here are a few key signs psychologies look for when assessing happiness:

• Feeling like you are living the life you wanted

• Feeling that you are living life with a sense of meaning and purpose

• Feeling satisfied with your life

• Going with the flow and a willingness to take life as it comes

• Feeling that the conditions of your life are good

• Feeling that you have accomplished (or will accomplish) what you want in life

• Feeling more positive than negative

• Being open to new ideas and experiences

• Practicing self-care and treating yourself with kindness and compassion

• Experiencing gratitude

• Enjoying positive, healthy relationships with other people

• Wanting to share your happiness and joy with others1

You may not be checking off all of the above. But ask yourself, “How many signs can I identify with”? If you’re checking off most of them, your happiness is likely in abundance. However, if the check marks are few, you may want to do some self-analysis and how you can work towards a better response.

Happiness is closely tied to factors relating to your work, your closest relationships, and taking care of yourself physically and emotionally2

Why is being happy important? According to researchers, happiness lowers your risk for cardiovascular disease, lowers your blood pressure, enables better sleep, improves your diet, allows you to maintain a normal body weight through regular exercise and reduces stress.3

In addition, researchers have found that happy people are more successful, are better at reaching goals, are healthier, live longer, have better relationships, and learn better4.

So, how do we fill up our happiness bucket? Here are a few simple ways you can cultivate happiness:

1. Show gratitude. Having a daily gratitude journal can help to improve your positive feelings and overall sense of well-being.

2. Cultivate strong and healthy relationships. Having social support is important to perceived well-being. Having a few close and trusted friends or family to confide in and provide support can have a meaningful impact on happiness.

3. Find meaning and purpose. Many people find happiness in their careers and family, yet they still feel like something is missing. If you’re not feeling fulfilled you may be questioning your meaning or purpose in life. A sense of purpose can lead to an improved overall sense of well-being, fulfilment and happiness.

4. Practice daily self-care. We know that proper nutrition, hydration and sleep are essential to daily function. Exercise should be considered another essential. Exercise is known to boost mood and ward off depression. As little as 10 minutes per day can help to improve overall happiness.

5. Remove negative thoughts and beliefs. Our mind and body are connected. Meaning, that what or how we think can influence how we physically feel. Harboring negative thoughts can impact your mood and lower feeling of

happiness. Keeping negative thoughts and beliefs away can help improve your mental well-being and feeling of happiness.

Happiness comes from within. You have control over how you can cultivate your own happiness. And remember, everyone deserves to be happy, including you!

References:

1. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-ishappiness-4869755

2. https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/howhappiness-impacts-health

3. https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/howhappiness-impacts-health

4. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/happy-life.html

Innova

Integrated Wellness Centre

(905-814-9355)

49 Queen St. South Unit #8, Miss, ON, L5M 1K5

Web: www.innovaintegratedwellness.ca Web: www.chiropractor-drlisa.ca E: contact@innovaintegratedwellness.ca Email: drlisa@innovaintegratedwellness.ca Facebook: @InnovaIntegratedWellness Instagram:innova_wellness

By Akua Hinds

of the HEART

Gratitude is the Attitude

T hanksgiving this year felt different to me. In fact, this entire year has felt different to me, but in a good way. These past two and a half years have delivered life lessons that transcended time. We had to experience a global pandemic that none of us could have predicted or planned for. We lived through separations, masks, endless amounts of hand sanitizer, constant grim media reports about hospitalizations and deaths, canceled travel plans, school online, Zoom weddings, livestreamed funerals, and so much more.

Now the world is opening up again and face masks are not a requirement in most public places anymore. I am grateful for that. Yet we are living a life that is very different to before the corona virus.

For many years, I have long wondered why there are so many unfair situations in the world. I am sure if you are reading this right now, you have sometimes wondered about the same things. Why do some people live in loving families and other people do not? It seems as if some people get all of the good breaks in life and other people get the short end of the stick. The truth is that it is unfortunate why some people suffer severely and other people don’t. God gave us all free will, but that freedom comes responsibility. Unfortunately, some people are reckless, and their reckless actions leave negative impacts for multiple generations of people. However, the point is that we have a choice. We can do our part to make a difference for our lives and for the future generations. And it starts with gratitude.

Are you having trouble thinking about what you have to be grateful for? If you think hard about it, you will realize that you have priceless blessings which are more valuable than any mineral of the earth. The secret is in you. Changing your viewpoint will change your life. Out of all the relationships you have had in your life, what is the one common denominator? You are the one common thread in all of your relationships. When unfair things happen, you can choose to become bitter, or, you can choose to become better. You get to choose to be a victor, or, you get to choose to be a victim. Hold firm to your faith and convictions, and if you do not have any faith, get some! You made it through a global pandemic. You beat the odds, and there is so much within you that you have yet to explore.

I recently met an American woman through some online networking events, and her story blew me away. She is one year younger than me, and several years ago, she experienced a stroke when she was in her twenties. This amazing woman had to relearn everything: walking, talking, and functioning like a typical adult. Now, Suzy is married and she and her husband are raising their young son and running a thriving business. Hearing Suzy share her experiences and seeing her genuine joy helping others made me realize that the time is now. I am not going to wait to feel gratitude. There is so much to feel grateful for in this moment and in many of life’s moments in which I was forced to learn tough lessons that I did not want to learn. However, I would not be the person I am today had I not learned those lessons. Be grateful for the possibilities to make changes that only you can make. You have what it takes, and you are exactly what this world needs to make a difference right now.

Akua Hinds, journalist, actress, music performer & instructor, founder & marketing owner of dating sites www.InterracialDesires.net, www.RichSinglesDate.net, www.ChristianPartner.co

Please visit http://www.AkuaHinds.com & www.PurePassion.biz & www.PureRomance.com/AkuaHinds.