BCA -USA Mirror 2014

Solaba 2014

BCA-USA MIRROR

May 2014

27TH CONVENTION EDITION

President’s Message PAGE 4

BCA-USA Fishnet project makes news PAGE 21

Special Invitation PAGE 38

HRH Ganyonga III Speaks PAGE 6

BCA-USA raises over $160K PAGE 26

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CONTENTS Welcome messages

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3 Message from the editor 4 Message from the President, BCA-USA 5 Welcome to Washington DC

Committee Reports 12 Membership committee report 14 Convention planning committee 16 Social/Awards committee report 18 Health committee achievements 20 Publications committee report 21Projects committee report 24 Culture committee report 26 Fundraising committee report 30 MPC Project overview 34 Process Improvement Committee

Sundry Items

36 Highlights from the Silver Jubilee 38 Special Invitation 40 Ndahtod Washington DC 42 BCA-USA Happy Silver Jubilee 43 Youth president’s report 44 Weight loss 101 49 Message of appreciation

Interview of HRH Fon Ganyonga III, Page 6

BCA-USA MIRROR

PAYING RENT FOR LIVING

If the thinking expressed by Mohamed Ali that volunteering with commitment is “paying rent for living” needs a harbor, BCA-USA is qualified and ready to provide that conducive cushion for it. The amount of energy volunteered to keep BCA-USA aglow would be astonishing to many, especially to those familiar with the preciousness of TIME in the western world. For, fellow Bali men and women would literary be at dagger-drawn just in a bid to prove points that would either shape policy or policy-implementation in the organization. In numerous instances the exchanges on cyber space result in plenty of “red meat” (when one party slashes and cuts the other party with cheap shots) as members reduce a communication tool into

a scurrilous cyber shaft.

The polarization that has ensured is obvious. Fairly recently, this patent trait of the Bali’ USA diasporans has colluded with both a president with a strong predilection for tolerance (not always a good thing) and no-nonsense members of the central executive who (rightly or wrongly) tend to demonstrate more loyalty to the people than they do to the chief executive. Quite a nuanced phenomenon!

While this mix is pushing the ship of this twenty six year-old envious organization towards trouble waters, the resolve of the Bali sons and daughters in the American diaspora to remain one and indivisible seems unshakable, even with the palpable polarization that we see on cyber space and other platforms.

Anyone familiar with BCA-USA executive members is as well familiar with conference calls that often end late into the night. The past few months has seen BCA members contributing generously to the MPC project through strategies provided by the ingenious fund-raising committee.

There are many more examples telling of the degree to which members have sacrificed for the organization. The results are equally obvious: BCA has seen an increasing numerical strength in the organization’s membership, unprecedented success in fundraising drives, and steady achievements in seeing some of its projects ripen to fruition as others near completion. It is the result of commitment demonstrated by members in their individual/

Editor-in-chief: Victor Gomia Publisher: BCA-USA Designer: Jude Fokwang, Bone Studios www.bonestudios. org

Ni Jude Fokwang Ni Julius Ndangam Ma Mary Nangah Ni Gahlia Gwangwa’a

Editorial Board BCA Publications Committee Victor Gomia (Chair) Ba Jerry Dohmatob Ma Lilian Ndangam-Fokwang Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia Ni Charles Tamon Ma Kuna Nukuna Ni Emmanuel Babila

Editorial Contact: publications@bca-usa.org Design and Layout: Bone Studios, info@bonestudios.org

Ni Victor N. Gomia unique ways, commitment that amount to Ali’s “paying rent for living” We end with a lesson shared by Mark Pain when he asserts that: “Perfection, as culture conceives it, is not possible while the individual remains isolated. The individual is required, under pain of being stunted and enfeebled in his own development if he disobeys, to carry others along with him in his march towards perfection…”

BCA-USA Mirror wishes every 2014 conventioneer a wonderful convention.

Victor N. Gomia.

Editor

Committee Reports & Submission Status Membership Committee Report Social/Awards Committee Report Publication Committee Report Youth President's Report Projects Committee Report Health Committee Report Fundraising Committee Report Process Improvement Committee Culture Committee

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT, BCA-USA

Ni Alex Ngati Welcome to the 27th Annual Convention On behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Bali Cultural Association - USA, I am pleased to welcome you to the BCA-USA 27th Annual Convention hosted by our brothers and sisters of the Eastern Chapter.

The theme of this year’s convention is, “Confronting Our Challenges. Building Our Collective Future”. Last year, we celebrated a significant milestone in the life of our association: our Silver Jubilee. In over 26 years, this association has seen tremendous growth in its membership, changes in its governance structure and remarkable expansion in its projects and initiatives. Some of these changes have outpaced the original infrastructure of the association. Yet our foundations remain strong and our mission remains the same: to work together for the development of our homeland. Looking collectively at our future, we need to think strategically about our association and develop plans and initiate processes that ensure we remain the pace setter of Cameroonian cultural and home town associations in the Diaspora. Some of these processes have already started. However, we must keep doing more to strengthen our structure and processes, build our membership, and accomplish identified short term and long term projects. Our success on these will be determined by our willingness to confront our current challenges and a commitment to constructive ideas and strategies that will strengthen our association and

prepare us to meet future opportunities. I am confident that our exemplary solidarity as well as our collective commitment to this association and its mission will enable us to develop concrete strategies to enable our association to meet the challenges of the future.

I am pleased that His Royal Highness, Honorable Dr Doh Ganyonga III, the Paramount Fon of Bali Nyonga will be our keynote speaker at this year’s convention.

Our organization has grown over the years. So too is our convention. Our conventions now span 5 days!

It starts off with traditional folktales and riddles “meet and greet” night on Thursday organized by the Cultural Committee. Friday morning will be taken up with sporting activities coordinated by our Health Committee to promote health awareness. Later on Friday, the Fundraising Committee will host our Annual Fundraising Gala: The Night of Glamour which this year has been themed Glamour on The Hill. Saturday’s General Assembly Meeting coordinated by the General Secretariat will reflect on the state of the association and deliberate on ways to strengthen our association. The meeting will culminate in general elections, coordinated by the Election/Constitutional Committee. Conventioneers and our supporters will be treated to night of non-stop entertainment by top DJs in town during our annual party by hosted the Eastern Chapter. The BCA-USA Prayer Line Ministry will be coordinating a non-denominational prayer service on Sunday morning. And later that evening the Cultural Committee will host a cultural jamboree showcasing our traditional attires, dances and songs, in the presence of His Majesty, the Fon of Bali.

The convention rounds up on Monday, with a BBQ cook out at a local park hosted by the Eastern Chapter.

The Convention Planning Committee (CPC) has worked with various committees and the host Chapter to put together a great program for you this weekend.

I invite you, your family and friends, to use this weekend to celebrate our successes and deliberate on concrete ways to address our challenges in order build our collective future!

I wish you all an enjoyable time during the convention.

Thank you.

God Bless BCA-USA Alex Koila Ngati National President, BCA-USA (2012 – 2014)

BCA-USA MIRROR

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WELCOME TO WASHINGTON DC

Ma Lilian Sibedwo

avoid. We thank God for Hs grace and we also thank those members who remained focused and worked tirelessly to make this occasion happen. Our appreciation goes to the entire Bali community in The DMV; Most especially Eastern chapter executive, Ni Julius Mbotiji (Ba Philip), Dr Terese Gwanfogbe, DC planning committee, Ni Vincent Gwanyama, Ni Augustine Njinjoh, Fed-Fed DC, Ndahntod DC, BNCA and Nchunyin.

It is election year again! To our winning candidates, I say congratulations in advance. But remember, that there is a lot of work to be done ahead of you. Top priority, in my opinion is that you must bring the Bali people in the USA back together by closing the gap of divide that has gotten ever wider in the last year. Be honest and heed to everyone’s problem without taking sides.

Granted, you can’t solve every problem but you can sure try. Remember to keep the friends you made yesterday no matter how insignificant or unpopular they may be within the society. They might just be the one to watch your back tomorrow. For advice, seek God and not man.

In all decision making, let personal honor and integrity be upheld and by all means do not play politics. Be rational and fair in your reasoning. Be careful not to let your position rule your lives; in other words, do not let men (friends) pull your strings like a guitar because before you know it you will be singing their tunes. In short, in everything you do make God the Master Planner and I bet you, you will never go wrong even in the midst of adversity.

Questions to ponder on: Why is it that as a people, we can never cut a long story short? Why must it always be “my way or no way”? Why must we always win? Why is it so difficult for people to admit wrong and apologize and amend their ways? Is it all because of our EGOs? Accountability, transparency, integrity and humility are keys to a happier and less stressful life. Practice it and see for yourselves. Mind you, service to the people is very challenging, but with wisdom and humility and integrity, you can overcome all obstacles.

Welcome to Washington, DC, the Nation’s capital.

Welcome to the city to which so many nations in the world turn to for help or answers in times of hardship of all sorts. Welcome to the Capital City where President Barack Obama presides over the decisions that have a direct impact in people’s lives the world over. Welcome to your brothers and sisters of the DMV Metropolis who are all happy to receive you from across the USA and from across the world.

Welcome to the land of plenty where the ladies of FED-FED DC will be at your every beck and call. You have come to the ultimate destination where you will be pampered and have your fill like never before. The Bali people have prepared and worked hard to ensure that your stay for the duration of the 2014 BCA USA convention in their home state would be a memorable one.

They have been working tireless to make sure this event receives all the accolades it deserves. You will be entertained to the max. So relax, sit back and enjoy yourselves.

The Eastern chapter has experienced a lot of growth in numbers and an increase of joyous events ranging from marriages to Graduations at all levels, and new births as well as some sad ones-- death in families.

We have also faced some serious challenges when it Thanks, comes to dealing with BCA National to the point where Lilian Sibedwo, people have been calling others to take sides on which Eastern chapter president family to defend or associate with, and which ones to

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SPECIAL GUEST: HIS MAJESTY, SENATOR, DR. DOH GANYONGA III OF BALI NYONGA In the lead up to the 2013 BCA-USA convention that held in Atlanta, GA, His Royal Highness, Dr Doh Ganyonga granted an exclusive interview to the BCA-USA Mirror. This interview is being republished in honour of his Majesty’s visit.

In a couple of months prior to convention kick-off, ink flowed and lips wagged in BCA on the logistics of the Fon’s visit in the United States. There would be a slow-down in this heraldry of royalty from Bali Nyonga owing to an intense political calendar in Cameroon that saw his majesty playing an invaluable role at the national level. The likelihood of the Fon not being able to make it to the convention on account of a very tight schedule back in Cameroon continues to shimmer, but the BCA National Executive Committee (NEC) under the leadership of Ba Sam Ngati remains relentless in preparing to “Celebrate 25 years of Cultural Heritage”.

Amid these, BCA Mirror had an opportunity to talk with convention special guest, his majesty, senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III, in an exclusive interview in which he addresses numerous subjects vis-à-vis Bali Nyonga.

BCA-USA Mirror: Your Majesty

and senator, first of all, congratulations for your recent appointment as one of the pioneer senators in Cameroon’s political history. We profoundly appreciate your willingness to talk to BCA-USA Mirror. We particularly thank you for taking time off your very busy schedule that is compounded by the current compact political calendar in the country to talk to us.

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: Thank you very much for taking the time to talk to me on issues I may help explain. It is always a pleasure to reach Bali sons and daughters and the public as a whole. I am glad to be here, and to talk with you.

BCA-USA Mirror: Generally, how is the health of Bali Nyonga today?

His Majesty, Senator Ganyonga III: It is daunting to give a detail picture of Bali Nyonga today. I can talk in general terms; In Bali Nyonga we have challenges at various levels: cultural, social, economic, political, you name them. But which polity BCA-USA MIRROR

does not have issues? Even your own communities in the United States wrestle with challenges on a daily basis. We in Bali have challenges; we manage them and we never give such difficulties the last word. The palace works in close collaboration with other stakeholders like the D.O, the Mayor, and representatives of non-profit organizations to address some of the challenges faced

by Bali Sub-division. As you know, we just went through the senatorial election. The people of Bali Nyonga were not happy with some aspects of the election; particularly, they were not happy with the choices of the person heading the list and his alternate in the Santa-Bali constituency. Another issue that arose during campaign events for the election was the Bawock issue. Bawock is one of the fourteen villages that make up the Bali Fondom. In recent past the people of Bawock wanted to establish a boundary that would identify the village as a distinct entity from the Bali Fondom. We said no to

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into the nitty-gritty of some of the political issues you raise, you will be a special guest for BCA-USA silver jubilee celebrations that is slated to begin on May 23, 2013 in Atlanta, GA. What are your prospects?

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: As you probably know, this is the second time I am going to be personally present at a BCA-USA convention. The first one was in Minnesota in 2004. Last year (2012) I was in Germany to attend the first BCA-Europe Convention. I do visit our communities in towns and cities back here in Cameroon. We are living in a fast changing world where it is no longer possible to sit here in the palace and address our peoples’ concerns. There are many of our teeming communities in towns and cities in the country and in the diaspora, and I would always endeavor to be with them when it is possible.

The increasingly globalized world of today brings some salient challenges to us on how to maintain that sense of belonging that our forefathers did not have to worry about being able to do. I look forward to joining sons Special Guest, HRH, Senator Dr Ganyonga III and daughters of Bali in the United that because our forefathers generously accepted them States in marking their 25 years of here. We cannot pay a price for being hospitable to fel- living together in the American diaspora. It gives me a low human beings. We are not going to have a Fondom lot of pleasure to see the dedication to our prized ideals within the Bali Nyonga Fondom. I was the campaign (particularly) by those in the diaspora. BCA-USA is armanager for Bali sub-division. We did well to the cha- guably the most vibrant Bali community outside of the grin of prophets of doom who wished that we should Fondom, and we look forward to its continuous support fail. The head of state would make some appointments of and initiation of development projects back home. to complete the process of having our first senate in the Suffice to add that I do not have to be physically present country. We believe that Bali sub-division is big enough at our events to bring the blessings required of me to to have her own representatives. We have over the years our people. When and wherever our people meet, the been put together with either Bamenda central or Santa. voice of the palace is therein, and the elders (Yhangong) We have made it known to the president of the republic are there to represent me physically if and when there is that Bali is big enough to have her own representation need for such a physical representation. in parliament.

BCA-Mirror: Your Majesty, Senator, before we get WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

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BCA-USA Mirror: Your Majesty, it seems it was easier in the past to recognize people in the Bali Fondom than it is today. How does one get nominated and/or appointed to a position of responsibility in the Fondom, positions like Sama, Nwana , Nkom or Fonteh in 2013?

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Ganyonga III: Nkoms are to the Fon as ministers are to the Head of State.

Typically, one would get recognition from the palace through one of two ways. It is either through hereditary or through merit. In the case of the former, it is not always the case that one who succeeds the father or mother automatically inherits the position held by the deceased.

Some successors may not be able adequately fill the vacuum created by the passing of their parents because of unavailability, or just inability to carry out that particular function adequately. In such a case, I consult my close collaborators and we choose someone to fill that vacuum.

On those who are given positions on the basis of merit, we go through a procedure to nominate people to play roles in the palace. We usually look at people who have shown distinguishing support to the palace and put them in positions as a way of recognition and also as a way of encouraging them to support the palace because it is a good thing to do. Remember we do not have salaries. We depend on support from the people to run their palace.

BCA-USA Mirror: In recent years the outcry about the waning of Nyonga culture has been salient.

There is a feeling among Bali Nyonga people that those values that define them are fast disappearing. Do you

share the same feeling? What can be done or is being done to handle the seemingly unavoidable situation?

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Ganyonga III: I would begin my answer to this on the premise that culture is not static. This is largely a matter of perspectives. Culture mutates; it is dynamic. There are aspects of a people’s culture that are subject to changes irrespective of whether they want it or not. On Bali culture in particular, certain aspects of our culture are still intact. Examples of untainted cultural values of ours would

“When and wherever our people meet, the voice of the palace is with them, and the elders (Yhangong) are there to represent me physically if and when there is need for such a physical representation.” be Lela. Although there are some few changes in the procedure, I can say that it remains essentially the same. Generally, we brought some of the changes in areas like hygiene and widowhood. In the past widows were subjected to untold hardships as they mourned their husbands.

Women were expected to sleep on the floor for months and in some cases for up to a year. I realized that some elderly women within families that adhered to this were beneficiaries of this practice and were promoting it. We examined the situation and decided that there is no aspect of our culture that is tolerant to inflicting pain on our people, espeBCA-USA MIRROR

cially when they are already going through pains of enormous proportion in the case of widows mourning their husbands. At the same time I was told that the practice could not be completely stopped, so I decided that widows will have a maximum of three days to go through that practice. Another age-old practice of our people I curtailed would be multiple days in death celebrations. In the past death celebrations in Bali took a toll on the bereaved because of the long process of burial, numerous vigils and funeral celebrations. These typically took weeks and therefore were more costly to the bereaved who would already be suffering the loss of a loved one. We came in and advised that burial should be a simple exercise with limited demands to the bereaved. We advised that after burial, the family of the deceased may decide at a time of their choosing to celebrate the loved one’s life. The idea was to let the people know that it is better to spend the resources in catering for the health needs of their loved ones than to bring their money for slavish expenses in the name of funeral celebration. They went on to add that a funeral celebration be slated for a day of the concerned family’s choosing, and that it should take place between 6 A.M and 6 P.M. A bereaved family wishing to go beyond this allotted time-frame (night vigil, for example) would pay some fee. The fee is meant to deter people from was was becoming the norm.

We wanted to discourage the practice of extending these events, so when people feel strongly about the extension, they should pay a price for it. I think this has worked well over the years because people long

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nightly funeral events have been tremendously reduced.

There are other aspects of the changes in the Fondom that we never planned for and that we have very little influence over. For example, there are TV sets in many homes in Bali today; some of the channels present obscene and pornographic movies to kids. Some show gory scenes in movies involving murder, mass killings, thievery, etc. Moreover, almost every person in Bali today owns a set of mobile phone. You are talking with me now from the United States; you can as well be talking to any other person in any part of Bali, like remote Jangman or Kopin. Young people are leaving Bali to other parts of the world to look for greener pasture. It is understandable; when they communicate or come back home, they bring changes in our communities. The opening of more colleges and a University in Bali in recent years has compounded the situation. The coming of the University sparked a huge controversy. Some people thought their land was to be encroached into. The fact is that Bali is gradually growing into a metropolitan setting. This is development; it comes with a cost. We are making effort to have things under control.

This innovation in communication technology comes with a challenge that is almost always imperceptible.

We consider them necessary facts and phases of life. We cannot stop most of these changes; however, we will attempt a sort of control to limit the degree of baggage that it brings, this for the good of the community at large.

BCA Mirror: Many people believe that the second phase of plural-

istic democracy in Cameroon that kicked-off in 1990 estranged many traditional rulers of the North West Region from their peoples’ loyalty.

The thinking is that because most of the Fons actively militate in one party (usually the ruling party) it has become difficult for them to remain true custodians of the people’s values especially in Fondoms where people (sometimes majority of them) may have different political views from their Fon. Where is His Majesty, Senator Doh Ganyonga and the people of Bali Nyonga vis-a-vis this?

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: Taking part in partisan politics as fon in the North West Region is not new. At the dawn of independence in Cameroon Fons were integral parts of the national body politic. The late Ba Galega played a key role in the re-unification process. Taking the bull by the horns, he was actively involved in Foncha’s KNDP, playing an invaluable role in the political activities that favored unification. In fact, he was actively involved in national politics, and so were his colleagues WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

of the other major Fondoms of the then Bamenda province. So the Fon has been actively involved in politics without being a politician. Additionally, leaders rule; I am a leader and so I need to join the national ruling body. What would I (a leader) be opposing? It is important to know that my traditional jurisdiction of Bali Nyonga is part of a bigger civil jurisdiction called the republic of Cameroon presently under the leadership of, His Excellency, President Paul Biya. Under what grounds would I be militating in a different political party other than the ruling CPDM? At the dawn of the second phase of multi-party politics, I looked at the political climate in the country, and consciously decided that we actively continue ruling and not opposing.

There is absolutely nothing new or wrong with that informed decision.

BCA-USA Mirror: Your Majesty, would a Bali indigent and resident who actively militates in a different political party from yours receive the same blessings from the palace as the one who militates with you in the ruling party?

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His Majesty Senator Doh Ganyonga: This palace belongs to the people, and so in keeping with an age-old tradition, it is open to the people irrespective of what their political leanings are. I have never and will not stop anyone from coming to the palace. Of course, when I put on my political cap, I would be glad to have everyone in the Fondom join me in my political party, but we have a healthier political environment today which gives room for individuals with dissenting political views to express them without fear of being reprimanded. This being said, I would like to let you know that I take informed policy and/or political positions for the interest of Bali Nyonga. I do not always take decisions overnight. Bali Nyonga is not a self-sufficient independent entity; it is part of a larger entity called Cameroon. I want to assure you that I do not work for my personal interest; I work for the good of the people. I serve the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) a national party across the nation.

As you know, I am a member of the party’s Central Committee. In recent past, I have served the party in re-organising it in Bafut and also in conducting parliamentary elections in Manyu Division in the South West Region on behalf of the CPDM Central committee. My active role in the ruling party should not and does not deter anyone from coming to the palace. It seems to me that those who do not militate in the ruling party have a complex. Let me use this opportunity to say that I have an open-door policy. We are all people of Bali Nyonga before belonging to different political parties

as other Cameroonians elsewhere in the national territory. Let us all put the interest of Bali Nyonga at heart.

We need to be very thankful to the Head of State for recognizing our contribution to national construction and challenging us to join in the process in higher offices. I call on all sons and daughters of Bali to come together and let’s work for the interest of our Fondom and our country at large. Together there is nothing we as a people cannot achieve. As it is often said, if you can dream it, you can do it, and I really believe we can.

BCA-USA Mirror: Talking about working together for common good, credible sources have it that you wield tremendous influence even within the Bali CPDM elite to the level that fairly recently you influenced who should be the mayor of Bali Royal Council to the chagrin of some Bali CPDM barons.

BCA-USA MIRROR

His Majesty Senator Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: That we are loyal comrades of the CPDM does not mean that we are not going to have our in-house differences. The legendary Chinua Achebe says “When something stands, something else stands beside it”. You are always going to have different views when you have more than one person looking at something. You see, as the Fon of Bali Nyonga, I have some prerogatives. I also take responsibility for my actions, all of which are for the good of my people. I ensure that every aspect of our society works well. To your question in particular, I can tell you that the Fon does not select the mayor; the people do at the ballot box. At the same time the Fon knows likely good mayors among those within the CPDM being vetted for the position. He knows that among those contesting or being vetted is one who can go the extra mile to sacrifice for the council and the people. If on the other hand there is one who is good at talking but has no prove of ability and willingness to go the extra mile in helping the council, I would throw my weight behind the candidate likely to go the extra mile.

Why? Because the people deserve the best that our resources can offer.

I would not call names. If you know what transpired during the case in point, you would be taken aback.

For example, a comrade comes to the palace and vouches support for a candidate and went out campaigning for a different candidate. That is

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the kind infidelity and double standard that we witnessed. Such practices were heavily punished in the past. A contestant must show prove of readiness to go the extra mile as mayor of Bali Council or any other office in the Fondom to benefit from my blessings.

BCA-USA Mirror: Talking about all sons and daughters of Bali working together, for a while now, it is being purported that some within the elite from Bali have not had a very cordial relationship with the palace.

Why? His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: I want to stress the fact that all Bali Nyonga sons and daughters, irrespective of their status, are integral parts of our Fondom.

I do not have a problem with the elite as a category. I have no problem with our elite; I work with them; it is important to note that most of the elite collaborate with me. I see in everyone a son or daughter of Bali Nyonga an invaluable part of the whole. This being said, it seems to me that some individuals would rather have a Fon who is an illiterate, a Fon who would get excited over a bottle of whisky and act according to their whims and caprices. I am not only literate; I am a scholar and would not easily get excited over food or drinks.

Moreover, times have changed. In the past the Fon was almost always in the palace and sufficient provisions (food and drinks) were always available in the palace to cater for guests.

Today it is not the same. I travel a

lot, within and without the country.

When some individuals come and (in defiance of regulations in place) avariciously buy too much land for themselves including the Fon’s, does anyone expect me to remain silent?

When I discourage such practices as I have had to do for the interest of the people, the perpetrators may not take it kindly, but I have to react in the face of such excesses. These being said, I want to re-iterate that the palace is open to sons and daughters of Bali Nyonga at home and abroad and even to none Bali people. The palace is a public institution. I have not stopped and should not stop anyone from coming to the palace.

In keeping with an age-old protocol, the process is simple: indicate to the palace your intention to visit and the palace collaborators will help schedule your appointment. Should you intend to see the Fon in person do same and there will always be time for me to meet and share with you. I seize this opportunity to also clarify the controversy surrounding individuals who are often taunted on account of imaginary or real problems which their parents and/or grandparents had with the palace. I would like to categorically state that I do take individuals for whom they are, irrespective of such real or imaginary past occurrences. I am not vindictive.

BCA-USA Mirror: Your last word:

WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

His Majesty, Senator, Dr. Doh Ganyonga III: I invite all of you Bali people to join me in thanking president Biya for the love and concern he has shown the people of Bali Nyonga; I believe it is a mark of a cultured people to feel and show gratitude. I want to exhort all of you sons and daughters of Bali at home and abroad to live in piece in the societies you have chosen to live in, especially those of you in the diaspora. It is important to respect the laws of your host country. On behalf of the people of Bali and people of Cameroon, I also want to express my best wishes to the president of the United States, President Barack Obama, who made history when he entered the white house in 2009. I would particularly appreciate the privilege of meeting him to say hello. I am eagerly looking forward to making it to the U.S, but from this morning (of May 16, 2013) a lot may change in regard to my trip as the formation of the senate bureau will be taking place. I do not know how the schedule of work will be, but I hope to find a little time to come to the US and join you in celebrating your Silver Jubilee and to visit with young people.

BCA-USA Mirror: We would like to thank you for taking the time to talk to us. Once more congratulations on your recent appointment to the senate.

Interview by Victor N. Gomia

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MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT

Ma Doris Galabe

Ni Julius Mbotiji

gravity supply system in Bali.

BCA-USA Membership Recruitment and • Provision of micro credits to small businesses Retention Strategy through its revolving loan program.

1. Introduction

• Building of classrooms and supplying desks to elThe purpose of this manual is to provide guidance ementary schools in Bali. and assistance to Chapter and Ndakum Presidents as • Construction of a Multipurpose Center in Bali to they strive to increase and retain members within the serve as library, computer learning center, HIV/ BCA-USA. Membership according to BCA USA Bylaws AIDS counseling and support center, and youth em(page 5 Section 2) is fulfilled by paying an annual fee of powerment center. $100 or a student or senior fee of $50.

• Provision of scholarships to students in Bali and the 2.

Know Your Product USA. MEMBERSHIP IS SALES! In order to sell a prod- • Dissemination of information about college and cauct a sales person must know his/her product and be reer choices worldwide and provides a support netpassionate about it. Be prepared to debunk excuses by work for its student members to achieve academithoroughly knowing your product (BCA-USA, its goals cally and succeed professionally. and objectives, achievements and benefits) and speak- • Conducts an annual health fair in Bali, where its ing with passion about it!

Physician members offer free consultations, medi3. Why Join BCA-USA Membership cations, screening for prevalent illnesses such as dia(Benefits of Membership) betes, hypertension, vision, and hearing problems, BCA-USA renders full or partial support to many and counseling related to HIV/AIDS prevention and development initiatives in Bali which include: other sexually transmitted diseases.

• Construction of a modern public flush system toilet • Supply of medication and medical equipment to the in the main square of Bali in 1998. main hospitals and health centers in Bali.

• Support of the construction of municipal water by • Provision of technical assistance in various projects BCA-USA MIRROR

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such as the mortuary that was constructed at the main hospital in Bali in 2004.

• Distribution of health literature and provide health tips resources and brochures.

• Participation in 2009 in the Mutual Health Organization (MHO) patronized by continued from page GTZ Cameroon.

4.

Recruitment Techniques

• • • •

There are many techniques that Chapter or Ndakum • needs to employ to recruit new members into BCA-USA. Two of the most important methods of recruitment are • face-to-face contact and direct mail campaigns.

• 5.

Member Retention

nity to network afterwards.

Plan and implement programs on topical day-today life issues that can be put to use by all.

Recognize achievement.

Ensure leadership is open to advice and suggestions and solicits ideas for improvement.

Ensure progress achievement via long-range planning for the group.

Rotate of at least one-third membership in all committees.

Perform annual evaluation of projects and programs.

Implement encouragement of new members so they feel welcome.

Plan new, improved, fresh activities, services and programs.

Things that Can Help BCA-USA Retain Members: • Carefully planned meetings that start and end as an- • nounced.

• Plan and implement programs that are of general For details of each of the sections discussed above, and special interest to members. please refer to the membership recruitment and reten• Plan and implement programs that include a helpful and timely information exchange and an opportu- tion strategy document.

WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

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CONVENTION PLANNING COMMITTEE

As head of the planning committee, speaking from personal experience, the trials were many and the frustrations endless. From the get go, many were uninterested to help with the planning- budgeting, giving information or just working together. What made it worse was the fact that there was no one to turn to in the executive hierarchy for guidance. Was this a planned act?

It has been a daunting task heading the Convention planning committee at a time when our individual differences and opinions moved us far from working towards building a perfect planning team and projecting the Association and its administration. Differences ranged from refusals from key administrative officials to provide past blueprints, to proper execution of a hitch free convention, to mounting personal assistants to dis-

rupt organizational arrangements that could make successful planning impossible within the group that I head.

At a time when we as a community are anxiously waiting to receive our most respectable guest, The Paramount Fon of Bali, how can it be that some insist on being seen by the public and our collective father as those exclusively responsible for bringing the fon to the convention? How can anyone explain that the head of the hosting chapter and also head of the convention planning committee is sidelined in all decisions pertaining to the Fon’s visit to the DMV metropolis? Is Fon Ganyonga not the fon of all Bali Nyonga sons and daughters or is he fon to just those select individuals? If BCA USA is responsible for bringing him to this convention, why then are the hosting executive excluded from all ar-

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rangements regarding his stay in our area?

Whatever the case may be, I have come to believe that I was at the right place, at the wrong time and with the wrong people. What were all the planning secrets especially with the Fon’s visit about? Sadly, I knew about all of them but just played along to preserve some egos.

In our culture, elders or traditional notables always step in to caution and preach unity and peace when friends and families disagree. It is high time they assumed their responsibilities and refrain from promoting egoistic tendencies that would further alienate the people. Please, help put an end to all the double standards, disrespect, bullying, back biting, smears and arrogance. How about using the words Peace,

Unity, Honesty and Reconciliation more often? All the Bas in the house please stand up. Where are you and where have you been? Please stop promoting personal agendas and do right by the least Bali person.

This was not written to start a fight but for us as a people to meditate on it and seek solutions to all that is plaguing our association. Collectively, we can do better. It takes far more effort to fight than it does to seek solutions. Doing the right thing does not make any one weak or stupid. Let history judge us for our rights and not our wrongs.

Thanks, Lilian Sibedwo Eastern chapter president

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SOCIAL/AWARDS COMMITTEE REPORT

Ma Lilian Fomunung

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he Social/Awards Committee is one of the permanent committees of BCA USA. Two members of the committee, the Chair and co-chair represent the committee at the NEC. The Committee was set up to react to and address the socially related affairs of members of the organization, to act as mentors of the budding Youth Group of BCA USA and to assist the Exco of BCA USA in promoting the vision of the organization.

The Set Up:

Currently, the committee has eight members: Ma Lilian Fomunung, Ma Patience Fofung, Honorable Emma Daiga, Ma Comfort Sema, Ma Evelyn Yongbi, Ma Vicky Takam, Ma Nagella Nukuna and Ma Helen Ndagam. The last two ladies are the committee’s newest recruits. Committee meetings are done through conference calls and email communications.

Recap of Last Two Years 2012:

The session took off on a rocky start. Shortly after we took the assignment we were faced with the challenge of addressing an urgent crisis even before our com-

Ma Patience Fofung mittee could have the chance to hold it’s first meeting.

The passing of the 2nd President of BCA USA, Ni Levai Babaya, was a challenging moment for our committee .With directives from the president we were able to successfully organize and meet the association’s obligations towards the bereaved family. Thereafter the association was hit with a series of tragedies as members lost close family members and local Ndakums and chapters too were hit with deaths, The committee also assisted in the celebration of the life of a dues paying member, Ma Nah Fonkem who was also a mother and grandmother to some active members., Then we finally had a break on sad news and all energy was now focused towards the fast approaching Silver Jubilee which was again another major huddle due to the unprecedented attendance that was anticipated. But before that the committee had to plan and attend the Leadership Summit which is a mandatory requirement for committee chairs and or their representatives. Again the Social Committee prepared and presented a report at the Leadership Summit in Oklahoma City in Nov 2013.

2013 ended with the celebration of the Silver Jubilee were members were celebrated with Awards for their individual and collective contributions in promoting the

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goals and visions of the association. Members who were celebrating mile stones in their relationships like marriages were presented with gifts during the Silver Jubilee celebration. We also welcomed quite a good number of New born babies into the BCA USA Family.

2014:

The 2014 session witnessed a slow start on activities which was not unexpected given the anti-climaxed effect of the Silver Jubilee. But we anyhow rallied before the Leadership Summit in MN and prepared a report for the Summit which unfortunately did not get a chance to be presented due to time constrained The report was submitted nonetheless to the BCA USA Secretariat for records purposes The main topic and assignment at hand now is planning for the up-coming Convention, We have been having frequent conference calls to plan on addressing some of the association’s social obligations towards its members.

Accomplishments:

• Successful organization and coordination of organization’s response to the Life celebration of BCA USA’s 2nd President Ni Gregory Babaya Levai.

• Successful organization and coordination of organization’s response to the Fokem family during the celebration of Ma Nah Fokem’s life as a dues paying member • Coordination and mentoring of BCA USA Youth Group • Active participation at Leadership Summits • Collaboration with Silver Jubilee Committee in presenting Awards and gifts to deserving

members • Celebration of members’ events at the Silver Jubilee • Preparation of yearly budgets and end of year financial reports

Challenges:

One of the main commitments of the Social Committee as listed in its working document to the NEC was to assist the organization in recovering and taking inventory of the BCA USA uniform. We have not done that.

The committee also promised to conduct fundraising activities to assist the organization in sponsoring committee activities, this too we have not done.

The committee pledged to assist in membership drive by recruiting at least 8 new members for the organization. We have also fallen short of that.

As we come to the close of our term, we promise to work with the current Convention Planning Committee in meeting our obligations during the up-coming convention. We will support the administration in addressing our members’ social concerns. We wish BCA USA renewed strength and promise to make our resources available to the new team

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HEALTH COMMITTEE ACHIEVEMENTS

Ni Nubia Kaba The Co-Chairs of the health committee, Ni Nubia Kaba and Ma Bridget Kaspa were appointed by the President of BCA-USA, Ba Alex Ngati, on July 10, 2012 and they moved to recruit the following BCA-USA members as health committee members: Ni Bobga Fomunung, Ni Sema Fofung, Ma Kuna Titamohkumi, Ma Florence Bassa, Ma Beatrice Tangeh, Ba Joseph Fomukong, Ni Augustine Njinjoh, Ma Eveline Gwaabe and Ni Simpson Gwanyama.

The health committee has held 7 committee meetings on October 7/ 2012, February 10, 2013, March 24, 2013, May 19, 2013, July 21, 2013, October 13, 2013 and March 16, 2014.

Ma Bri Kaspa In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, individuals must understand the causes or potential causes of their ailments and know how to avoid and control them or protect themselves from these causes. Health education, therefore, has been the primary tool that the Health Committee has employed within the last 2 years to reach its goals of raising health awareness within the Bali community back home and here in the USA. The committee applied the following tools to reach its goals: • Health fairs and health screening programs • The Health Committee orBCA-USA MIRROR

ganized a health fair and health screening event in the USA and in Bali where people were screened for health problems and got counseling and/or recommendation to seek specialized care. By use of a health survey, the committee determined what the needs of the community were and how best to address those needs, based on input from the community.

• Monthly health tips • The Health Committee created a monthly health awareness initiative that

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entailed the dissemination of monthly health tips, covering common disease states, to the Bali community through the BCAUSA and Mbonbani online networks. These tips included health screening reminders on diseases such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, etc. and other tips on how to recognize symptoms of some diseases, such as heart attack and stroke.

In addition to conducting the first ever health survey within the Bali community in the USA, launching the first ever health awareness contest, in the form of a weight loss contest, to the BCA-USA members, and re-starting the health screening in Bali Nyonga, the Health Committee had the following achievements, between May 2012 and May 2014, to report: Created a motto for the Health Committee which reads “The Health of our People is our Priority”.

Conducted a very successful health screening in Bali Nyonga on December 20, 2013 (Dzimbufung) at the Wo’on Catholic health centre.

During this event, about 287 participants from all over Bali and its surroundings showed up to be screened for diabetes, hypertension and obesity.

Conducted a health fair at the BCA-USA 2013 convention in Atlanta, GA on Friday and Saturday, May 24 & 25, 2013. During this event members were screened for hypertension and were educated on the detection of breast lumps during breast self-exams.

Designed a health survey for Bali community back home that will be administered during the health fair in December 2014.

Designed and conducted a health survey to collect baseline health data on the Bali community in the USA. The survey was conducted between March 7 – March 31, 2013 and the results were published to the members of BCA-USA on October 1, 2013.

Conducted a health facilities’ survey in Bali in order to capture some basic characteristics of healthcare facilities in Bali, so that the Bali population can be informed of the healthcare services available to them in Bali.

Submitted a grant application to WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

Gilead’s Sciences to sponsor the Atlanta health fair.

Submitted 2 requests for applications to Freunde Kameruns (Friends of Cameroon), a German NGO and the US Embassy in Yaounde, to sponsor the health fair in Bali.

Submitted 3 requests for donations of medical supplies such as, Glucometers, In-Home HIV Test Kits, Pedometers and Blood Pressure Machines to Arkray USA, Inc., OraSure Technologies, Inc., Omron Healthcare, Inc., for the Atlanta health fair.

Established, with the help of Ni Ben Fokum, contact with the Franciscan Sisters who run the Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach in Springfield, IL, for the purpose of identifying needed medical supplies from their warehouses and sending them to Cameroon.

Sent out 13 monthly tips in the areas of heart attack, hypertension, stroke, lipids, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, depression, enlarged prostate, cancer, early detection of cancer, earwax, stress and physical activity.

Submitted a letter of request for authorization to conduct a health fair in Bali to the Delegate of Public Health in Bamenda, after which authorization was granted.

Ni Nubia Kaba and Ma Bridget Kaspa, for the BCA-USA Health Committee Co-Chairs, BCA-USA Health Committee.

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PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT

The Publications Committee’s primary goal is to provide visibility and positive PR to the organization.

The committee has over the years strived to meet the following objectives: • Publish newsletters and/or magazines for the organization • Maintain and update the organization’s website.

• Produce marketing brochures that highlight past accomplishments of the organization • Publish the association’s almanac and calendar.

The importance of PR to BCA-USA was in the minds of the founding members of the organization as the first BCA-USA Newsletter was published a few days after the first meeting of the Bali sons and daughters in the United States in November 1986 in Atlanta, GA. Ba Nkom Tangeh, the organization’s pioneer secretary general, worked on that maiden edition. The issue captures the spirit of the moment the founding members congregated for the first time as a people dedicated to maintaining sacred ties with home that would defy distance and time.

The area the committee has been more visible over the years is in the Newsletter publication that comes intermittently in both hardcopy and softcopy. Despite difficulties associated with getting members (especially chapter presidents, Tahkums, committee chairs and other contributors) send in materials on time when they do, the committee has been able to contribute its quota to the overall achievement of the organization, especially in publishing the newsletters and/or magazines.

Victor N. Gomia Chair, Publications Committee

Members: Ni Emma Babs Ni Charles Tamun Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia Ni Jude Fokwang Ma Kuna Nukuna-Vanyounga Ma Marie Nanga Ma Lilian Fokwang Ba Jerry Dohmatob Ba Gahlia Gwangwa’a

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PROJECTS COMMITTEE END OF TERM REPORT • Ma Helen Fohtung, • Ma Patience Ngum

Meetings:

Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia

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The committee carried most of their meetings through conference calls or one on one calls and a lot of correspondence was via email. The reason was because; members were spread across different time zones and due consideration was paid to that fact.

Responsibilities: • Carryout feasibility studies on the ground to determine what are immediate needs • Brainstorm on the ideas gathered from the ground and come up with possible projects to be carried out by BCA-USA • Ensure that on-going projects by the projects committee are properly managed and well accounted for • Prepare, submit and defend a budget with NEC based on the selected projects for the fiscal year • Work with ad-hoc committee in Bali to ensure that criteria spelled out in the projects for which a budget has been approved are followed and smoothly executed • Present committee reports at the leadership summit and all sanctioned BCA- USA events as required

he Projects Committee is a standing committee created to brainstorm and vet projects for implementation by BCA-USA. Approved projects are implemented by an ad-hoc committee in Bali. Membership of the committee is open to all registered members of BCA-USA. The committee like all other BCA-USA committees presents a budget every year and projects are tailored to fit the budget that the NEC approves for Goals/action plan: the fiscal year.

For the fiscal year 2012/2013, the projects committee submitted the attached budget requesting the sum of Projects Committee members: $7050.00 from the NEC. The committee had identified • Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia(Chair), 3 projects on which to spend the funds on, as detailed in • Ni Stephen Doh, the embedded budget proposal. Unfortunately for the • Ni Gilbert Nyonka’a , committee, only the sum of $1600.00 was approved for • Ni Isidore Fokum, all the projects. (See attachment 2) • Ni Joe Fomunung, • Ni Julius Nyamkimah Key Accomplishments: Ad-hoc Committee Members in Bali: The Fishnet Project Phase 2: • Ba John Fomusoh, With less than a third of the proposed budget ap• Ba C. K Nyamsenkwen, proved by the NEC, the committee had to resort to car• Ma Helen Ndangam,

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rying out only one of the three projects that were proposed. The committee voted to carry out a new batch of fishnet project trainees. Initially, the plan was to train 10 kids. However, after consulting with the ad-hoc committee in Bali, it was agreed to follow the recommendation by the Bali based team. What the Bali team suggested was that, based on marketability factors and cost constraints, 8 kids instead of the original 10 be sponsored. The following 8 kids were therefore selected for training in the following areas.

Names

Sex

Address

1 2 3

Ndifon Stephanie Tadoh Benadette M Henson Dobgima

F F M

Jamjam Gungong Ngwandikang

4 5 6

Fahngwanyam Jenet Ndikali Eveline Christopher Sama

F F M

Mantum Gungong Ntanfoang

7 8

Racheal Mbongeh Buba Prisca Kahjames

F F

Boh Munyanka Njenka Hausa

Training Option and Training Center

Hair Dressing & Body Beauty. C/O Sunshine Beauty Salon, Bali, Palace St House plumbing and tiling. C/O Charin Construction Enterprise, Bali Catering. C/O Belle View Resort, Bali General Motor Mechanics. C/O Stopira Motor Garage, Bali Computer Accountancy. C/O Demotec Computer Center, Bali Nyonga

Development of the Blue Print of the Fishnet Center

The committee has worked on a document that will be the Blue print for the BCA-USA Fishnet Center. This document details what will become a training center for BCA-USA’s fishnet project recruits. The center will also serve as a job creating opportunity for already graduated recruits of the Fishnet project in that, they will be allowed to seek contracts and execute them at the center with a split of the proceeds going to the upkeep of the center as well as operating costs. Check the blue print for the complete details.

The Leader ship summit

The committee prepared for presentation at the leadership summit in Minnesota , the attached PowerPoint slides which highlighted the milestones of the committee at that point. Although this was sent to the SG, the time crunch at the leadership summit meant that the committee could not present.

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Presentation of BCA-USA’s Fishnet Project at the African Diaspora Conference This was an occasion was presented to BCA-USA to showcase its development projects. It was held on March 29 2014 at the Nigerian embassy in Washington DC. The Projects Committee worked on developing the presentation material which the national executives present at the occasion used to deliver the presentation. The focus was on the Fishnet Project and how diaspora organizations carry out projects back home. This was a great opportunity for BCA-USA to establish visibility with donor organizations like the World Bank, the African Development Bank and other donor agencies that were present.

Challenges: Budgetary Constraints:

The key challenge that the committee faced during the two year period was that of budget constraints. During the first year (2012/2013), a budget of $7050.00 was presented to the NEC and only $1600.00 was approved.

With such cut in the budget, the committee had no option but to execute a much smaller project than had initially been envisaged.

Communication issues: After the budgetary session of 2012/2013, the approved budget of $1600.00 was communicated to the team in Bali as the total approved budget. In communicating with the chair of the team in Bali, the need to spend the budget before the end of the fiscal year for which it was approved; it was misunderstood to be an authorization to withdraw the funds from the BCA account in Bali. Given that, this was not the explicit in-

struction that was given to the team, a need to investigate why it happened arose which was carried out by the association’s auditors. A report was released by the auditors in which recommendations were made on how to improve communications between committee chairs and the financial team as well as ensuring that such unauthorized withdrawals, albeit approved by the NEC never happen again. Noteworthy is the fact that accusations were meted against committee members in Bali who in turn decided to freeze all cooperation with BCA-USA until a resolution was arrived at. Given that this process lasted up to half of the second fiscal year (2013/2014), the committee decided to hold off on starting any new projects and rather focus on the on-going projects.

Conclusions:

The committee has spent a good amount of time coming up with ideas that need to be examined by the NEC. The Fishnet Center, if approved will again be the first of its kind and will in the long term become selfsustainable while continuing the BCA-USA Fishnet Project. It is the committees hope that whenever BCAUSA decides to consider implementing this, priority should be given to former trainees and current trainees of the Fishnet Project.

The committee looks forward to continuous service to BCA-USA and thanks all the executive members who were committed to its success.

Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia Projects Committee Chair (2012 – 2014)

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CULTURE COMMITTEE REPORT

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Accomplishments

Ni Charles Tamon The cultural committee of BCAUSA started its 2012-2014 term of office with a reconstruction of its membership, drawing from willing individuals and quasi cultural enthusiasts to culturally savvy individuals to forms the core committee.

With an initial mission to further educate the community in the Diaspora and the youths, the committee embarked on a monthly in-committee educative program, selecting individuals and giving a research topic for them to research and educate the group. Among topics selected were, “Title in Bali”, “The Titas”, “Ghang gong” and many others. It was such an enriching program which later extended to a presentation at the Town Hall conferences organized by BCA-USA. The committee met once every month to develop new approaches to educate the masses and develop new ideas on how to better structure the cultural events during the convention.

The cultural committee over the last two years organized a couple of activites which we are proud they were all successfully realized. Some of the measure activities were; 1. A trip to the Fondoms of Bali Kumbat and Bali Gham after the enthronement of the new Fons. During this visit, the cultural committee expressed BCA-USA their affiliation to the palaces and ascertain their continuous participation and relationship building with all the people of Bali Chamba.

2. During the celebration of the events of the Silver Jubilee, the cultural committee acquired a representative symbol, “Kong” which stands out to fortify the cultural aspect of BCA-USA. This “Kong” would be used when needed during BCA-USA cultural functions.

3. The cultural committee also raised the enthusiasm of BCA-USA members to participate during dance competitions and to find more value in projecting our culture through spectacular dance presentations striving to retain and showcase originality. Every chapter of BCA-USA now aims at offering the best and looking up to beating the champion of

the last dance contest.

4. We also restructured the Story Telling Night (Thursday Night) Meet and Greet.

5. Of the two years as a team, we had the opportunity to assist in the Lela festival in 2013. The committee sent representatives to work with the palace and made sure their contribution was of great help to the realization of the Lela.

6. There has been great anxiety from committee members and others to join the cultural committee and to attend regular conference call and participate very well with variety of contributions.

Challenges

We had very minimal challenges which were considered normal within the traditional and cultural arena. It is not uncommon to see individuals struggle to represent or own cultural recognition or make negative simple organizational missions. It becomes challenging when the power that be perpetuates negativity or divide within the committee. We, as a committee braved these challenges and finally got to the finish line. Lack of genuine support or better still love for individual success would always be a challenge.

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Recommendations

1. Every ruling administration should not relent their support for committee chairs and try not to minimize officers that they appoint or nominate. The success of any committee or committee chair is a credit to the administration no matter how minimal.

2. If BCA-USA needs to physically be present at the Lela, we should look into the activities of Lela and choose some and sponsor them directly and not give funds to anyone.

3. The Lela sponsorship project should be maintained 4. The palace should be encouraged to create a committee that would help manage Lela, accept-

ing contributions from every person or group who wants to support Lela, document, execute, report and be accountable to the Palace and those who contribute to the project.

5. BCA-USA should not engage in direct spending of funds, i.e. BCA-USA contributions should be given to a committee which would possibly include a BCA-USA representative back in Cameroon.

6. BCA-USA should look at maintaining liaison with the other palaces of Bali and chose alternating years to celebrate with each one of them.

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FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE REPORT

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Committee Activities

Ma Lilian Fokwang

FRC holds a monthly conference call on the third Sunday of each month to discuss, plan and coordinate fundraising initiatives. Closer to the convention, these calls are held biweekly and weekly.

The FRC hosts the annual fundraising dinner (Night of Glamour) during the convention. Other fundraising events may be organized as deemed necessary.

Committee Structure Committee Responsibilities The FRC is led by a Committee The By-laws of the BCA-USA mandates the Fundraising Commit- Chair tee to raise funds for the association FRC Members 2012 -2014 by: • Writing grant proposals to Ni Langmia Fonjoe Ma Patricia Kaba different foundations • Organizing traditional fund Ni Henry Fofang raising activities like dance Ni Alex Ngati (Ba Sam) parties in different cities, Ma Marie Nangah production of mementos etc. Ma Lilian Sibebwo • Exploring other innovative Ni Chris Fokumlah strategies using existing tax Ma Lilian Fokwang (Chair) code provisions, etc. Raise Ma Vicky Tankam Funds to enable BCA meet Ni Clarence Ndangam Ma Kuna Njowir its goals Ba Tita Mohkumi However owing to the significant cost of the MPC project, the Fundraising Goal 2012 - 2014: Raise committee’s focus the past 5 years $150,000 over 2yrs. has been solely focused on fund rais- 2012 – 2013 Raised $120,000 ing towards MPC Project. To this 2013 – 2014 Raised $45,000 (proend, the committee oversees various jected) Total: $165,000 fundraising events during the year.

Fundraising Activities

To meet our fundraising goal for the term, the committee undertook the following activities: BCA-USA MIRROR

• Fundraising events: • The Ritzy Gala, Yaounde December 2012 • The Silver Night, May 2013 • Glamour on the Hill, May 2014

Fundraising Drives

The BCA-USA 5K AIDS Walk, May 2013 – Raised $85,000 The BCA USA $1 a Day Campaign, November 2013 – May 2014 – raised $5000.

Achievements

In two years, we raised more money than at any other time in our fundraising history. In our first year, we raised $120,000 for the MPC – a feat made possible largely through the BCA-USA 5K AIDS walk fundraising initiative which we undertook in 2013.

• The MPC Master donor list database has been updated, edited and circulated frequently • Increased and diversified donor base through the 5K AIDS walk and the $1 a Day Campaign.

• Increased the number of • Maintained the number of Diamond VIPS at convention at 17 and above.

• More donors reached milestones in our donor recognition levels including two chapters and one group.

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MPC Donor Recognition Awards 2013: Individual Recipients/Couples Chapter recipient/group Ba Titamohkumi & Ma Kuna Tita BCA Dallas Chapter Diamond Club Ni Chris Fokumlah Donors Ni Julius & Ma Magdalene Ndangam Ba Nkom Gwankudvalla Lima & Ma NamonBCA Atlanta do Lima Ni Ben & Ma Frida Fokum Ba Nkom Gwanbilla Fobesi & Ma Loveline Tita Gold Club Donors Ni Sema Fofung Ba Nkom Gwanbidpua & Ma Beatrice Tangeh Ni Edwin & Ma Lylian Fogam Ni Wob & Ma Lilian Fomunung Ni Kenneth & Ma Marie Gwanmesia Ni Henry & Ma Florence Fofang Ni Sylvester Yongho & Ma Maggie GalegaYongho Ni Peter Fokum Ma Bettina & Ba Titajani Silver Club Donors Ma Teresa Gwanfogbe Ni Clarence & Ma Helen Ndangam Ma Winifred Vanyounga Ni Cyprian Fusi Ma Marie Fongwa Marie Bronze Club Do- Ma Lilian & Ni Jude Fokwang Nkumu Fed Fed Texas nors Ba Tita Fomunung & Ma Kelly Ma Eveline Gwaabe Ni Dinga Nfon Ma Juiliet & Ni Geobila Dangoh Ma Mary Nangah Ni Nubia & Ma Patricia Kaba Ni Fidelis & Ma Agness Kaspa Ni Tofig & Ma Juliet Fomban Ma Martha & Ni George Benyella Ma Irene Tita Ma Comfort Sema Ma Vicky Takam

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MPC Donor Recognition Awards 2014: Diamond Club Donors

Individual Recipients 1. Ni David and Ma Justine Njafuh

Chapter recipient/group

2. Ni Alex & Ma Hannah Ngati

Gold Club Donors

A S S O C I A T I O N C U L T U R A L B A L I

4. Ba Fogam & Ma Olga Fogam 1. Ni Banyuga & Ma Nkie Pefok 2. Ni Sylvester Yongho & Ma Maggie Galega-Yongho

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3. Ba Nkom Gwankudvalla Lima & Ma Namondo Lima

3. Ni Alfred & Ma Lilian Sibedwo 4. Ni Julius Fondong 5. Ba Titajani & Ma Bettina Titajani Silver Club Donors

6. Ni Bekia & Ma Helen Fosam 1. Ni George & Ma Martha Benyella

Bronze Club Donors

2. Ni Jude & Ma Lilian Fokwang 1. Ma Cynthia Fogam Moore 2. Ni Sam Buma & Dr. Mrs. Evelyn Buma

$1 a Day Changemakers (Raised $365 and above) Ni Wob and Ma Lilian Fomunung Ba Tita & Ma Kuna Alex Ngati Julius Ndangam Beatrice Tangeh Florence Bassa Ma Vicky Takam Kenneth Gwanmesia Clarence Ndangam

Challenges

Collecting outstanding pledges made by donors at previous fundraising events remains a significant challenge.

Over $85,000 in pledged donations remains unpaid – this despite the best efforts of the committee to follow up with donors.

Engaging more BCA members especially small donors to fundraise and support the MPC has been a huge task.

The BCA 5K AIDS walk gave an opportunity for members to fundraise from their social networks. It aim was to tap into a donor base outside the BCA membership. Despite the huge success of the fundraising drive, only 67 individual members and 9 fundraising teams signed up.

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Managing the MPC Master Donor List, using Excel spreadsheets has been a daunting task – hence the delay in updating donors through frequent publication of the list. To address this, the committee has received budget approval to obtain a professional donor management software that will facilitate the management of donation.

Whilst some BCA Chapters and groups have made significant group donations to the project, the involvement of Chapter presidents and local chapters in fundraising for the MPC has generally been small and inconsistent.

Securing grants to fund MPC Project remains a challenge as many foundations and donors will not fund capital projects. The committee remains committed to exploring grant opportunities as a source of funding for the MPC.

Recommendations

In order for the committee to continue building on its successes, it will need to address some current challenges. As part of that effort, the following recommendations can be considered: Strengthen donor engagement by maintaining regular communications with donors throughout the year.

Encourage and support local chapters to undertake fundraising for the MPC. Recruit and retain committed volunteers to who can serve in the committee.

Set up a structure and process for following up on and collecting outstanding pledges Continuously research, identify and target grant making foundations and organizations to seek support for the MPC.

Ma Marie Fongwa Ni Nyuga Patrick Ma Martha Benyella Ni Alex and Ma Hannah Ngati Ni Victor Nchamukong Ma Florence Bassa Ba Nkom Gwanbidpua Tangeh Ma Beatrice Tangeh Ni Julius Ndangam Ma Comfort Sema Ni Wob and Ma Lilian Fomunung Ni Tofig Gana Ma Kuna Vanyounga Ma Vicky Takam Ma Mary Nangah Ni Clarence Ndangam Ni Langmia Fonjoe Ma Patricia Kaba Ni Kenneth Gwanmesia Ma Lilian N. Fokwang Ni Ernest Walah Ni Simon and Ma Mercy Nukuna Ma Jenne-Stella Tekwe Ni Peter Fokum Ma Sophie Fomuso Ma Kuna and Ba Titamohkumi Thank you all for coming on board. Your collective committment and support is deeply appreciated.

Thank you Ma Lilian N. Fokwang On behalf of the Fundraising Committee 2012 - 2014

The BCA $1 a Day Fundraising Campaign

Launched in October 2013, the $1 Dollar a Day Campaign sort to engage fundraisers to collect or save $1 day for the MPC .

A BIG THANK YOU to all our fundraisers who enrolled and fundraised through this initiative. We are deeply grateful If you did not hit the $365 mark, please keep saving and donating. Every little helps.

Ma Lenyonga Fomunung Tita Marcel Galega Ni Babila Tata Ba Nketi Gwanyama Ni Edwin Fogam

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THE BALI MULTIPURPOSE CENTER (MPC) PROJECT: OVERVIEW

A project of this magnitude is undoubtedly a huge undertaking for BCA-USA. The project went through a period of “growing pains” and overcame several challenges in the beginning. The first major challenge was when we realized that initial construction contract prepared by local representatives of the Association in Bali was not going to work for us. BCA-USA decided to cancel Ba Nkom Gwankudvalla the contract and negotiate the current contract subsequently with the Project Recap/ History Contractor. Another setback occurred when the land of the original As we gear up for BCA-USA’s Silconstruction site, donated by the ver Jubilee celebration in my home Bali Council was suddenly withcity, Atlanta, GA, we have been takdrawn after BCA-USA had invested ing stock of the Association’s last 25 considerable money and time into it. years of existence and reminiscing BCA-USA took immediate action to through archived photographs of seek its own land. We ended up purpast conventions. It is only befitting chasing a larger piece of land at the that I provide a brief recap of BCAcurrent site.

USA’s largest project to date, the ongoing MPC project in Njenka, Bali.

The Construction Contract The project was conceived several years back as a library project, but The new construction contract the vision was later broadened into was signed between BCA-USA and a multipurpose center to include the PRODECO – Cameroon on March following aspects: 26, 2010 at the BANDECA Head Of• Community library fice in Bali Nyonga. In this contract, • Computer learning center the Contractor builds the center as a • Internet cafe turnkey project (in phases) per the • HIV/AIDS and health building plans and specifications awareness center for a fixed fee that includes all la• Multifunction convention bor, technical equipment, and matecenter rial. The project is broken into sev• Future youth recreational eral phases that are each assigned a center/ sports center “lump sum” fee being the pre-negoBCA-USA MIRROR

tiated price for the phase. The Contractor is responsible for purchase of material, storage, and other aspects.

BCA-USA pays for work based on work progress as the different milestones are completed, inspected, and approved by BCA’s agents. The Association does not pay for any work not completed.

The estimated overall duration of the construction was four years and the total budget was estimated at $600,000 US dollars (300,000,000 Franc, CFA). This includes payments to the Contractor, and salaries/allowances of BCA-USA’s onsite staff, and other expenses such as land purchase, land title fees, etc.

The project was divided into nine phases and Phase One construction started in April 2010. This phase involved mobilization and site installation (site office, material, personnel, equipment etc) site study, bulldozing, water and electricity connections, erection of project sign boards, work planning and installation of storage facilities.

Phase Two construction was the foundation work, and it was completed in November 2010. This phase involved activities such as the following: setting out, excavation work, reinforced concrete work (to cast footings), reinforced concrete work (to cast foundation beams and columns), stone masonry work, and soil backfilling and compaction.

The next phase was construction

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of the convention hall section (referred to in the Contract as Building I), and it was completed in June 2012, excluding the roofing. The roofing of Building I was deferred to be erected at once with the roofing of Building II as the buildings are interconnected.

project. Ba Dohvoma is a certified engineer with a Master’s Degree. He inspects the work and makes recommendations for approval. He rejects any work that does not conform to the contract or to industry quality standards. Other members of the team in Bali include the Resident Site Inspector (RSI), Ni Jude Wuvalla Work Progress Since the last who works under the QCC and the Convention (May 2012 to Secretary, Ms Patience Ngum. The May 2013) RSI is required to be on site every day that construction work is done Phase four, the construction and he coordinates his assignments of the library and computer/ office closely with the QCC. building (referred to as Building I am proud of these individuals II) is underway. It was begun af- who each have detailed responsibiliter BCA-USA’s convention last year ties. The overall success of the proin Minneapolis, MN. The attached ject depends on how well they exphotographs show the evolution of ecute their different roles. Although construction from ground breaking they are each paid a monthly allowtill present. It is clear that much ance, they also have a vested interprogress has been made, but a great est in this project being that they are deal of work is yet to be done. from the local community.

The attached MPC flowchart deProject Team in Bali picts BCA-USA’s structure for manThe building construction com- aging this project and shows how pany is PRODECO, Cameroon, the team in Bali interacts with BCAowned by a Bali man, Ba Njimbung- USA. Information flow is via a sinsah George Gamua. gle point of contact, the MPC Project BCA-USA has a hired local team Manager (PM), Ba Gwankudvalla to monitor the work and represent Nubea Lima. us locally. The team is headed by a Construction Manager (CM), re- MPC Committee Members tired Commissioner of Police, Mr. John Fomuso. The CM serves as The MPC committee in the US BCA-USA’s primary representative is the group that has been responsithere during construction. In his ble for various aspects of this project absence (when he took a “sabbati- for BCA-USA through the different cal” leave), Ba Nyamsenkwen ful- stages. The MPC committee has unfilled that role as Acting Construc- dertaken the following aspects of the tion Manager (ACM). The ACM project: was retained subsequently (at a re• Feasibility Studies duced rate) for continuity and back• Project Definition up. Another key role in this project • Preparation of Building is that of the Quality Control ConPlans and Specifications sultant (QCC) held by Ba Dohvoma • Construction AdministraVincent. He is responsible for montion itoring and quality control of the • Post Construction Planning WWW.BCA-USA.ORG

During the project Feasibility Studies and Project Definition stages, the project evolved from a library to a multipurpose center. To prepare building plans, the MPC committee engaged an architectural firm in Bamenda, Cameroon. The committee also received recommendations and feedback from BCA-USA members with experience in the field.

In the Construction Administration phase, the committee’s role is to manage the construction and give progress reports to BCA-USA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and the general membership. The committee works closely with BCAUSA’s financial team to ensure that funds are transferred to Bali on schedule to meet the construction requirements.

The MPC committee also coordinates with BCA-USA’s fundraising committee and assisted in designing the capital campaign that is projected to raise the bulk of the funds required for this project. The committee meets on a weekly basis and sometimes more often, depending on what is going on. The committee also holds joint conference calls with the team in Bali periodically.

Membership in the committee is diverse. Several people of various backgrounds have served in this committee at different times, but a few have stayed the course from the beginning through the different stages. The following are the current members of the MPC: • Ba Gwankudvalla Nubea Lima (Committee Chair) ** • Ni Jella Kaspa (Committee Financial Secretary) ** • Dr. Wob Fomunung ** • Ba Moses Tita Mohkumi ** • Doh Geka Banyuga Pefok • Ba Nketi Vincent Gwanyama

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** Indicates members present team members in Bali, upon apfrom the creation of the committee proval from the US. till date Ma Liga Mutia Yanou is the committee’s legal counsel. Some BCAUSA executives (National President, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary) have joined committee discussions as required over the years. The immediate past president, Ni Julius Ndangam who is currently our Webmaster has been a committee member before, and still calls in from time to time to offer valuable input.

The National Secretary, Ni Clarence Ndangam has also offered significant contributions to the committee as a past member.

I am very grateful for this group of people who freely offer much of their time and talents to this project.

When they travel to Bali for any reason, they often dedicate much time there to the MPC project.

Finances BCA-USA has spent 114 Million Francs, CFA on the MPC project from inception to date. During the last fiscal year (from the last convention), we spent 36.5 Million Francs, CFA. So far, BCA-USA’s fundraising has stayed ahead of MPC spending; we haven’t had to stop work because of lack of funds.

BCA-USA has two bank accounts in Cameroon. The account at the MC2 Bank in Bali is dedicated to the MPC project. BCA-USA’s treasurer in Cameroon, Ma Helen Fohtung, works with the financial team here to manage that account.

Payments are made directly from BCA-USA’s account to the Contractor’s account in the same bank. Ma Helen is also responsible to pay the monthly allowances of the MPC

Challenges

The QCC’s role as one who rejects work is by nature adversarial to the Contractor, and therefore their working relationship has sometimes been challenging to manage.

In more than one occasion, tension between the two has resulted in confrontations that have necessitated intervention from the CM and the PM to resolve. We also faced weather problems; primarily heavy rains that caused construction delays and presented erosion control challenges.

Other challenges have come from questions in the interpretation of the building plans. Some portions of the building plans were found to be lacking certain essential details. We invited the original structural engineer of record, Mr. Akongang Richard to clarify his intent, and sometimes prepare additional calculations and provide the missing details.

One of the walls of the library building (Building II) had to be rebuilt even before it was inspected and approved, causing some delay.

Construction work is progressing well overall, despite the challenges we face. These challenges are not unusual for a project of this magnitude, especially being that it is being executed across two continents.

Summary Update/ Outlook

We are working on Building II construction. The Contractor has submitted some Requests for Information (RFI) that we are working on providing responses to. These RFIs pertain to structural support and roofing design issues.

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We are also looking to incorporate some enhancements that will make the facility more accessible to the disabled. We plan to provide ramps to the building entrance to allow for wheelchair access. We also plan to provide wheelchair accessible toilets on the ground floor. The possibility exists to add an elevator in future (even after construction) if there is additional funding for it. After building II construction is completed, the next major work will be to put up the roofing for both buildings.

While we are a long way from completing the construction work, it is not too soon to start post construction planning. We have therefore had discussions on topics such as the following: Landscaping of the Site • Equipping and Furnishing the Buildings • Standby Generator • Management and Staffing of the MPC Facility • Maintenance and Sustainability of the Center • Security • We welcome any input from the general membership. I look forward to seeing you all in Atlanta.

Please enjoy the construction photo gallery. They speak a thousand words!

Nubea Lima (Ba Gwankudvalla)

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BCA-USA-PROCESS IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE (PIC)

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nonprofit organization for Bali people in the United States and for generations to come. At the beginning of the committee’s term, we identified some areas that could use input: Convention organization, planning and execution, communication process between leadership and the GA, finances, surveys and long-term leadership of BCA-USA. Our team was made up of a very diverse set of 8 Chamba people: Ni Tofig Gana Fomban • Ma Pamela Fielding (CA) • Ma Cynthia Fogam (GA) he Process Improvement • Ni Sama Dinga Fokum (WI) Committee (PIC) is one of • Dr. Wob Fomunung the committees within BCA-USA • Ni Samkeah Titanji (MD) that was recently created to collect • Ma Feh Gwanyalla (MD) data and use it to make suggestions • Ni Emmanuel Titanji (MD) to the leadership for consideration.

• Ni Tofig Gana Fomban This Committee has, as it’s main goal (WA)-Chair to represent the Bali Chamba people in the USA on issues that need imWe deliberated via conference provement and to bring their findcalls and our e-group with the freings and suggestions to the leadership of the organization. Over the quency varying depending on our past two years, we reached out to the other commitments. However, we BCA-USA members in the chapters constantly collected data from the and “Ndakums” nationwide. We did BCA-USA community and rothat to increase involvement while bustly reached out when instructed encouraging constructive criticism by the President Ni Alex Ngati (Ba and suggestions. We believe this im- Sam). For the passed two years, we proves the BCA-USA overall admin- received feedback through surveys, istrative process, and it strengthens phone calls and emails. Some of our our organization as a role model survey findings included increased support for convention packages

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(75%), received during our 2013 BCA USA Silver Jubilee celebration in Atlanta. 88% of active BCA-USA members said they were very active although 64% said the conventions are not affordable. This is an example of the fine line between our changing times and our organization as a whole. Based on these and other survey results, we made our recommendations to the NEC, the President and the Convention Planning Committee. We focused on real-time suggestions over the past two years each time we collected data from BCA-USA members. For example: PIC worked with the Education committee to revamp the sponsorship of teachers in the schools in Bali Our major challenge was that a majority of our suggestions and recommendations were not taken into consideration, because we never had any power to reinforce our recommendations. We also reviewed similar suggestions from the previous committee’s activities that suggested the objectives of the committee be revisited and revamped.

Some of our key Recommendations: To the President and Moderators on Friday September 13, 2013: BCA-USA President and Moderators:

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The BCA-USA process improvement committee (PIC) has been observing what is happening with our association at this time. The president of BCA-USA (Ba Sam Ngati), informed members to voice their concerns to the PIC, and some of them have responded. There were a number of questions concerning the role of BCA-USA e-group moderators and that of paid members of this association.

1. Based on recent events, BCA-USA PIC believes that the Moderators should respond to member concerns pertaining to the e-group code of conduct.

2. It is imperative that members who have paid their dues get answers from their leaders.

3. Respond to the request to form a BCA USA e-group ethics committee.

4. PIC does not think that silence is the best approach to the issues surrounding e-group code of conduct or will be the best long-term solution!

Thank you BCA-USA PIC • To Convention planning committee: e.g. Guaranteed sitting during our conventions, the need for a convention budget with INCOME/ EXPENDITURE before the convention to ensure a quicker financial report post convention.

• Changing the Process Improvement Committee (PIC) to a Quality Assurance Committee so the committee is empowered to reinforce their findings together with the governing adminis-

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tration.

• Follow a 4-point plan to establish a Board of Directors (BOD) for BCA-USA to ensure that the BOD should never be by appointments but by election of EXPERTS. These EXPERTS should have experience serving on BODs for other nonprofits as well as be EXPERTS in the Bali Chamba culture to ensure balance in our vision as an organization.

• Incorporate surveys into organizational activities, such as payment of dues, to increase participation.

Ni Tofig Gana Fomban BCA-USA PIC Chair-2012-2014

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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SILVER JUBILE

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SPECIAL INVITATION

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NON-DENOMINATIONAL PRAYER SERVICE BANI, PRAISE THE LIVING JESUS!! HALLELUJAH!!!

BCA-USA specially invites you and your friends and family to FELLOWSHIP with one another during our annual NONDENOMINATIONAL Sunday morning service hosted during the convention. This year's service will be on May 25 2014.

Venue: Hyatt Dulles Hotel - Herndon, Virginia.

Time: 11 am prompt.

Attire: BRING YOUR CHURCH CLOTHES! Put on your best for the Lord or come as you are.

If you attended last year's Sunday Service, then you need no invitation, because you will be there live and on time.

However, if you overslept and missed it last year, well, this is your chance to come TASTE AND SEE, THAT THE LORD IS GOOD INDEED; BLESSED IS THE MAN/WOMAN THAT TRUSTETH IN HIM. Psalms 34:8. No Reservation needed and no Gate fee!

straight, so Doh can Fellowship with us this year.

Also, we are privileged to have the KING OF GOSPEL COMEDY, SEYI BROWN, who is a living Testament that God indeed has a sense of Humor. Please bring lots of kerchiefs to church, especially ladies; to catch the Mascara/foundation etc.

A MERRY HEART DOETH

GOOD LIKE A MEDICINE, BUT A BROKEN SPIRIT DRIETH THE BONES. Proverbs 17:22 (KJV) Last year we implemented our

Set Your Alarm Clocks And very own BCA-USA Prayer line and Don't Miss Your Appointment With it has indeed been a mighty blessOur Lord And Savior; Jesus Christ ing. Lots of Testimonies and Praise reports, all to the Glory of God AlOf Nazareth.

Worshiping with us this year will mighty! Many thanks to all those be our very own HRH Doh Ganyon- who hosted and participated and to ga III, Fon of Bali. We thank God our Coordinator Ni Julius Ndangam.

God Almighty has many new for making all the crooked places

and exciting programs for us this coming year, but you will need to be in church Sunday 5/25/14 to hear this great news. Don't be left behind, make sure you lay out your church clothes Saturday night before heading out to the gala. Your life will never be the same again.

Also come ready to Pray, Praise, Worship and thank God Almighty for all he has done and continues to do for us.

Our host chapter will be blessing us with some Praise and Worship songs, right after the congregational Praise and Worship. We do have some Anointed musicians amongst us and I am personally ready to break-dance for the Lord, Hallelujah!

PROVERBS 22:6, TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO: AND WHEN HE IS OLD, HE WILL NOT DEPART FROM IT. Our children will be handling the ushering on Sunday morning, Praise Jesus!! The Youth attendance last year was very impressive, God is indeed Awesome!!!

We are counting down to the convention, please jump on the convention Miracle Train before it leaves the Station.

With Lots and Loads of Agape Love, Rev. Pam Fomunung BCA-USA Co-coordinating Minister

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NDAHNTOD WASHINGTON DC: THE YEAR IN RETROSPECT

Ni Gilbert Nyonka A feeling of gratitude and praise occupies my soul as I make this recollection. If I do not express this joy that soothes my inner soul then my gratitude will not be sincere. I write to recount a journey that is pregnant with pomp and pageantry. A tale about a people determined to preserve their cultural heritage in a foreign country, resisting all the temptations of external adulteration and striving to be who they are, a beautiful story of how we as a people have revived and reactivated our culture within the scope and context of time, a story that defines and unites us as champions of our serendipity. The presentation will be laconic as I intend to skim thru the events and only provide the core details. Be part of this journey as it unfolds.

Ndahntod was pleased to have a courtesy visit by the Bali Nyonga Palace emissary (Tita Yebit) at the culmination of the 2013 BCA USA convention. He thanked the Nyonga people for their hard work and continued support for development efforts back home. Reminding folks to uphold the Nyonga culture as that is our identity

regardless of where we are.

In July of 2013, Ndahntod was honored by the presence of two BCA USA members; Ba Fobesi ad-hoc chair of the Fon’s committee and Ma Winifred Kuna Nukuna BCA USA Vice president. They came to say thanks for all the help and support that Ndahntod has been giving to BCA USA as well as the development initiatives in Bali. It was a fun night characterized with dancing and much to eat and drink as usual.

Friday November 1st, 2013 was a big milestone for Ndahntod; the cultural group celebrated its 10th Anniversary. It was celebrated in grand style typical of Washingtonian tradition. It observed a high number of guests from all over the world and the cities and states of the United States.

Founding members were recognized and acknowledged for their spunk and stewardship. A special message from the Senator Dr. Ganyonga III, paramount ruler of Bali Nyonga was delivered meticulously by our own in house orator Ba Nkom Mathew Gwangwa. He is noted for his dexterity and eloquence in articulating Mungaka and the queen’s language.

He imparted the message of peace and gratitude from the palace to all the Nyonga sons and daughters present at the occasion.

In February 2014 Ndahntod had their valentine’s day party, amongst the august guest invited was our own celebrity from savannah Georgia, he is a scholar, a medic and a traditionalist, he is in a class all by himself , his generosity and goodwill is an admirable trait worthy to emulate. He is very reserved and is not a media or tabloid BCA-USA MIRROR

fan, he is a man of action and speaks when he needs to speak and when he speaks it is known, I am talking about our own Ba Dr. Eric Fogam. He came to Ndahntod to celebrate Valentine’s Day because he had a conflict of schedule when he was invited for the 10th anniversary celebrations. He pulled out his check book and did the usual; we were very grateful for that kind gesture and pray that may God replenish the source.

In April 2014, Ndahntod acquired traditional music equipments from Cameroon. The launching was done in grand style and members, friends and visitors had the opportunity to dance to the tunes of traditional songs that they thought could only be played back home. Thanks to the cultural secretary (Ni Gadinga Dokea) for coordinating the event and making it a success.

In closing, Ndahntod strives to leave up to its name and founding creed making and assuring its members to understand that it is a house of “Ntod’, whether in grief, sickness or joy Ndahntod is Ndahntod and will continue to tower and serve that purpose.

P.S. If you happen to be in Maryland by the 1st Friday of any month please stop by our usual meeting venue and have fun with us we will be glad to welcome you. Our doors are also open to folks who are looking for a “Ndakum” to belong to. Check us out at this address: 580 University Blvd East, Silver spring Maryland 20901 Ni Gilbert Nyonka

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BCA-USA HAPPY SILVER JUBILEE U S A

Celebrate, Calibrate & Deliberate

By Dr. Jerry Komia Domatob

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BCA-USA clocks 25 Amidst lavish jubilation With rapturous celebration And rabid commemoration

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For a quarter century BCA-USA blooms Like flowers that blossom Serving families, friends and even foes

Ba Jerry Domatob

Despite forces pushing backward With members good faith Sacrifice and service BCA-USA thrives Like powers that hive

As all human entities Few nonentities Strive to destroy BCA-USA Like diabolical incarnates

Through festive birth pangs And crushing failures fangs BCA-USA moves forward So at 25 Despite and in spite, insatiable woes Occasionally raging, as fierce wars BCA-USA advances like victors Ride on BCA-USA fans and leaders Be steadfast, firm and courageous

Keep charting righteous path Be vigilant of internal and external enemies Happy Silver Jubilee Happy Silver Jubilee Happy Silver Jubilee May more successes crown BCA-USA? Ba Nji Fonjoe’s House 05/15/14

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YOUTH PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Ni Langmia Fonjoe

community that now boasts more than 70 student members and 180 total youth members. We recognized the vitality of an ‘all hands on deck’ approach in moving forward. Therefore, we empowered our constituents.

We achieved so much with a motivated and organized crowd. We originated and facilitated two successful national fundraising drives- 1) sale of BCA Youth Wristbands and 2) sale of BCA Youth Raffle Tickets that benefitted the Multipurpose Center Project with over $400 USD. Periodic chapter meetings in our various regions were established. Groups in Oklahoma, DC, and Houston even planned and hosted community events such as dance parties and barbeques. Our body sent delegations to Bali, leadership summits, convention site excursions, and the Continental Africa Diaspora Legacy Program. In addition, we competed in the annual dance contests at the annual conventions.

Our administration is proud of all we achieved during our tenure. We have all grown in leadership and scholarship. Most importantly, we matured as members of this association, and as sons and daughters of Bali. We trust the new executive will continue the great course, promote BCA-USA’s future leadership, and take our organization to higher heights.

Njika!

Mfedba, I would like to thank you all for the confidence instilled in us as the first National Executive Committee of our noble association. We have been truly honored by this grand opportunity. Your encouragement and guidance have been integral factors in accomplishing a great deal these past two years.

As pioneer leaders of the youth wing, we focused primarily on establishing structure. We successfully set up six chapters groups- Eastern, Northern, Northern California, Oklahoma, South Texas, and Southeastern. We created standing committeesConvention Planning, Development, Fundraising, Ni Langmia Fonjoe and Recruitment within our governing body. In Youth Wing National President, BCA – USA summation, we worked towards building a formation resembling the senior sector of our association.

We also grew in numbers. We reached out to all Bali youth nationwide to join our welcoming

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WEIGHT LOSS 101

By Ma Najella Nukuna during your walk. Make sure you work up a sweat. A leisurely stroll Stage 1: Weight loss 101: The is not an option. Slowly increase it First 20 Pounds …Attain up to an hour a day of intense jogYour Goals ging or running. Use gadgets such Are you the perfect candidate as pedometers or heart monitors for “Stage 1: Weight Loss 101: The to measure your steps, your caloFirst 20 Pounds”? Ask yourself these rie burn and heart rate and ensure three critical questions for place- that you are improving daily. Work ment into this category. yourself up from burning 300 to 400 1. Can I climb a 40 step stair- calories daily to 600 to 1000 calories way easily with ease and at your peak. normal panting? Do I gasp for air and struggle to get 2. Record Food Intake: Write down each food item you to the top? Is my heart struggling and being over- consume daily. Even if you are not aware of caloric contents of our worked?

2. Using a tape measure meals, all you need to achieve from across the mid area, is day to day is a reduction in the your waist to hip ratio amount of food consumed. It regreater than 0.95 for men mains critical that you receive your and greater than 0.86 for daily nutrients recommended by women? Reduced inches the FDA (Food and Drug Adminin the tummy area would istration). However, lowering the result in incredible health amount of calories you consume daily is the most crucial step in lospredictions.

3. Is my sleep disrupted by ing the first 20 lbs. Read labels, and snoring and sleep apnea? use calorie readers on smart devices Do I wake up feeling tired and apps to guide you. and lethargic?

If you answered in the affirma- 3. Spread Out Food Intake: Do NOT starve yourself. Spread tive to these questions, you need to step it up and implement these sim- small meals throughout the day ple proven rules to lose the first 20 (Five to Six) and ensure that you lbs. These might seem a bit drastic, have a caloric deficit every day to be but trust me; these are the only ways able to drop down the pounds by the end of the week. to achieve sustainable results.

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marks of obesity.

Ma Najella Nukuna First and foremost, huge kudos to the untiring efforts of our (BCAUSA) health committee, as awareness has been raised and results will be reported towards BCA-USA’s first initiative towards a healthy start.

Weight loss is undoubtedly a daunting task. However, when attained it remains one of the most rewarding and fulfilling efforts one could ever embark on. The deleterious symptoms of obesity melt away and improved living standards are manifested in better sleep patterns, much improved sex appeal, better cardiovascular momentum and most importantly, a healthier lifestyle.

3 Stages of Weight LossWhich One do you Fall Into?

Are you overweight? Do you pant after walking up just one flight of stairs? Do you have a low sex drive? Or a slowly deteriorating life spark? Have you been diagnosed with weight- related health issues? If you answered “yes” to at least two of these questions, you NEED to read 1. Action Plan: this article. And hopefully begin to Get moving immediately. Start 4. Weigh Yourself Routinely: make some positive changes in your off with a 30 minute brisk walk a day We all know how easy it is to fall health, as these are all glaring hall and slowly add in spurts of jogging back into bad habits. This tip effecBCA-USA MIRROR

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tively solves this problem. Pick up a good scale and accurately take your weight at the same time every week ensuring that the numbers are slowly reducing. A 1lb to 2 lbs loss every week should be your goal.

5. Create a Support Group: Surround yourself with positive individuals who are supportive of your health goals. Join or start a biggest loser competition within your family or at your place of work and utilize your inner competitive spirit to set a goal and attain it. Go for the win. Stay focused.

6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Drink plenty of water!!! Replace the high calorie beers and wines with glasses of water. In other words, drastically reduce or stay away completely from the empty calories provided by unnecessary beverages.

Moderate consumption of a glass of red wine a day is sufficient and healthy.

weekly weight loss and ensure improvement with each passing week.

If you follow these 7 steps diligently, you will achieve your weight loss goal of 20 pounds within 4 to 6 months. Determination and a positive support system are paramount to this life changing effort. Unfortunately, most of us wait for a health hazard wake up call to desperately work on losing the life threatening weight. In some cases it is already too late with the stamps of obesity (diabetes and heart disease) already implanted in our systems. Look around you and seek out testimonies to this effect and step it up and get fit and healthy again.

ment. The 2nd phase of your weight loss plan involves building up stamina and doubling the efforts you made in phase 1. At this stage, your body is craving bigger efforts, your metabolism feeds on more and more activity, and it gets harder to sweat it out. You will start to reach that plateau, and you will need to apply the tricks of weight loss to get on the hill again. Here is what it takes to pass this hurdle and excel.

1. Calculate Your BMR

Calculate your estimated basal metabolic rate (BMR) either online at http://www.myfitnesspal.com/tools/ bmr-calculator or using the formula below.

Stage 2: Weight loss 201: The Next 10 to 20 Pounds….. English BMR Formula Surpass your goals.

Women: BMR = 655+(4.35 x weight

Have you heard Kelly Clarkson’s song “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”? Those wise words effectively describe this weight loss phase. Olympic athletes only achieve greatness by setting daily goals, and surpassing them. This is the Olym7. Write it All Down: Last but not least, record your pic Stage of your weight loss regiWWW.BCA-USA.ORG

in pounds) + (4.7 x height in inches ) - (4.7 x age in years ) Men: BMR = 66 + (6.23 x weight in pounds ) + (12.7 x height in inches) - (6.8 x age in year) Metric BMR Formula Women: BMR = 655 + (9.6 x weight

in kilos) + ( 1.8 x height in cm ) (4.7 x age in years ) Men: BMR = 66 + (13.7 x weight in kilos) + (5 x height in cm ) - (6.8 x age in years ) In simple terms, your BMR is your caloric output at rest.

To lose weight at this stage, you need to consume 200 to 300 calories less than your BMR value. For example, a female aged 43, at 150 pounds and a height of 5 ft., 7 inches has a BMR of 1420.3. This implies that this lady will have to eat 1200 calories to lose weight. 1200 calories is an incredibly low amount of food to be consumed daily so a better alternative will be to eat a little more and burn it by exercising harder.

mount to your weight loss success.

Eating a bowl of “equang” or “spinach wraps” will add a lofty 600 to 700 calories to your daily calorie intake. What about our “ngeung and sanjab”? A bundle of fufu (three handful sizes) and half a bowl of sanjab cooked in a typical way with palm oil and other condiments will easily add 700 to 800 calories to your daily intake. Disheartening, isn’t it?

These are the meals we love to eat.

How can we deprive ourselves of them? Here is a declaration I can prove. The easiest way to fail at this stage in your weight loss plan is to change your meal choices. With this little caveat, you can stick to eating your favorite meals. Cut down your 2. Learn and Know What you portions drastically. Your body only Eat: needs so much food so “zip it up At this stage, counting and when adequately fed”. The more you knowing your caloric intake is para- eat, the more your stomach stretches

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and demands more. On a personal note, I was a naïve daily consumer of 3500 calories until I learnt the calorie content of our meals. Here is a rule of thumb. Use the palm of your hand as a measure of your serving sizes; i.e.

A palm size of fufu is estimated to be 160 calories, which is an adequate serving size for a fully grown adult.

Use the size of an egg to estimate how much meat you should consume in a serving and satisfy your hunger with unadulterated vegies (low oil content). A meal measured in this manner will offer you 500 calories of your favorite healthy choice.

A book is in the works to provide a picturesque view of our meals and their caloric contents. Stay tuned to this wonderful resource coming up in a few months.

3. Work Out!

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You must exercise at least 6 days a week, burning at least 600 calories each time you exercise. Your exercises should include at least 30 minutes of cardio burn (running, biking, stair climbing, etc); 15 to 20 minutes of strength exercises and 10 to 15 minutes of stretching to avoid any injuries.

and it requires professional help or supreme discipline to succeed. The first rule of thumb is to clear the myth of localized weight loss. You can’t target any area of your body to lose weight. It has to be a holistic effort of full body fat burn. In the long run, the targeted areas will reduce in proportion to the rest of the body.

Phase 3 is the phase when you chisel 4. Plan Your Meals: yourself to a toned body and potenStrive to eat your last meal be- tially attain the beloved “six pack” tween 6 to 7 pm. Plan in advance to armed with chiseled calves and make this happen. carved arms. So below are your long awaited 12 Tips and Steps to Drop 5. Be Mentally Active: those last 5 to 10 Pounds.

Focus and keep your mind on the number of calories consumed 1. Trick Your Body: Get rid of the perpetual plateaus versus the number exhausted. A deficit of 300 food calories daily at this by tricking your body to maintain a stage is crucial. Keep in mind that 1 high metabolic rate. Fuel your syspound is equivalent to 3000 calories. tem adequately and schedule adTo burn 1.5 pounds weekly at this equate rest for recovery. Your goal is phase, you need a caloric deficit of at to maintain a 1 to 2 pound weekly least 600 to 700 calories daily from loss and a good maintenance of the food consumption and exercise. Fol- ratio of muscle to fat tissue. low this and you will succeed.

6. Maintain Adequate Rest:

Sleep at least 6 to 8 hours daily.

7. Stay Motivated!

Stay positive and determined.

This is a difficult stage, but remember, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!”

Stage 3: Weight loss 301: The Last 10 Pounds…..Get completely fit.

This is the stage where you have that extra belly fat (love bundles) that we crave so hard to get off. This is when you are fighting so hard to fit into that gorgeous dress, or pair of pants in your closet. Understandably, this is the most difficult phase,

as you burn the calories efficiently and still maintain your caloric deficit throughout the week, the weight will fall off. A boring mundane system will lead to a mundane stagnant plateau.

3. Step Up Your Workouts:

Intensify your fitness and work out routines. Do intervals during your running routines and raise and cool your heart rate more frequently. By now your strength exercises should be more superior and you should be physically able to double and triple your repetitions of strength routines.

4. Work Out on an Empty Stomach:

Try including a work-out routine three to five hours after your last meal when you essentially have an empty stomach. Make the workout count on an empty stomach. In essence, you will be converting the meal to muscle glycogen to burn ex2. Zigzag Your Calories: cess fat. (University of Birmingham Change your meal plans and study – 2010). feeding patterns. I.e. If you are used to eating 1400 calories daily, mix it 5. Spread your Meals Out, up and eat more on one day and ad- Again: Use the intermittent fasting roujust the amount you eat during the week to compensate for the one day tine. Spread your meals out. Smaller of binging. This effectively confuses portions eaten more frequently keep your metabolism, forcing your body your blood sugar stable and prevent to work a little harder to get rid of you from those late night binges. the perceived extra calories and prevents a lethargic metabolism. This process is called “zigzagging your 6. Morning Workouts: For three days a week, add in a calories”. You could also follow the same trend with the types of meals. 30 minute morning exercise on an If you are used to eating a low fat diet empty stomach. This helps burn on a daily basis, cheat your system extra fat and extra calories, while by stopping in McDonalds for a day keeping you prepped for your hardand work it out the next day. It may er training sessions that you have seem counter-intuitive but trust me; planned during the day.

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Too much exercise and too little food intake will result in a catabolic risk where you start destroying your newly attained fat burning muscles. 10. Eat Fat to Burn Fat: Muscle gain leads to fat loss.

8. Protein, Protein, Protein!

Healthy fats are vital for the producIncrease your protein intake in tion of hormones such as testosterany form. Fruit shakes with pow- one. Hormones such as testosterone dered protein serves as a very useful are vital for performance enhancealternative. High protein diets en- ment, which eventually build up hance the fat burning process used muscles and result in fat loss. Clifor fueling the body. ché sounding but very reasonable.

Eat enough dietary fats (about 20 % 9. Stock Up on Those Carbs: from avocado’s nuts, olives, seeds, At Stage 1, Carbohydrates should etc.) to burn fat. be limited at all costs. However, in this final phase, carbs fuel your mus- 11. Don’t Fall Into Bad Habits cles and your brain. They also slow – AKA Junk Food Junk is just that…Junk. If it down the breakdown of muscles. Up

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to 40 % carbs at this stage is accept- smells like junk, looks like junk, able. The rule of thumb is to keep tastes like junk, it is junk and it setthe total daily calorie consumption tles in the back side. lower than total daily calorie loss.

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12.

Finally…Congratulate Yourself!

Give yourself a well-deserved pat on your back when you achieve your goals. Celebrate and enjoy some good red wine from time to time within reason.

Sources

Details of how to lose the last 10 lbs is an adaptation from Steve Edwards “Ask the Expert” analysis from Beachbody.com. “Ask the Expert: How to Lose Those Last Few Pounds #552 05/10/2014. References are included there-in.

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APPRECIATION Dear Members: I want to extend my profound thanks and gratitude to you, for all your contributions and support during my first term at the helm of our beloved association. Over the past two years with your support, I have worked with the Executive and NEC, to increase BCA-USA visibility here in the US, in Europe, and in Cameroon. Under my leadership, our association has increased its financial strength by enhancing and diversifying our fundraising efforts, to better position us towards achieving the mission of BCA-USA. As a direct consequence of our increased financial strength, I am equally pleased to report that the MPC, our flag ship project is progressing well and on schedule. We have continued in the path of making our financial management very transparent as I know only too well that, with increased financial strength, comes increased anxiety and concern for our finances. I reckon that more needs to be done but be rest assured that, under my leadership, we have been excellent steward of your finances.

However, the past two years has not been an easy ride. I was not in any illusion to think it was going to be easy, when I stepped up to the plate to serve as BCAUSA president. It has been daunting and sometimes frustrating, but with your resilience and support, we still accomplished a lot together as an association. In taking over as President, I had asked for more member engagement, and I got more than what I bargained for!

We now just need to find a way to convert and channel

some of the catabolic energy within our membership into anabolic one so as to continuously position BCA as the premier cultural association in the Diaspora. You are simply the best and I feel honored and humbled by the trust you placed in me these past two years.

I want to particularly recognize and thank my executive, for their support, without which, our association will not be where it is today. I want to thank all members of the NEC. I am deeply grateful and in the same breath humbled, for serving with committed Bali sons and daughters who are so selfless. The selfless sacrifice and hard work has contributed enormously to the successes that we enjoy today, making BCA-USA the pace setter of African cultural associations in the Diaspora.

Thank you all so much.

Finally, and very important too, I want to especially recognize and thank my beautiful, loving, lovely and lovable wife, kids, and my extended family. For the past two years, I have not been the husband or the dad that I am capable of being, owing to my leadership at the helm of our association. Through it all, they have stood by me showing nothing but unconditional and steadfast love and understanding. I couldn’t have asked for more.

I love you all!

Thank you and God bless you all.

Alex Koila Ngati President, BCA-USA

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