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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
IN THIS ISSUE
CONTRIBUTORS
Natural Nails
Editor in Chief Nik Barnes
The Right Brow What 2 Gear? Kicks KG Mally Love Lust & Lunch MAN OF THE YEAR Feature Story + Sebas Bastian A LETTER FORM NIK BARNES
Follow The Crown Dress to Impress Kedar In Style Black Rose Nik L Barnes You know I find myself writing more about how I feel and less about what people think of this magazine. I do believe that was always my intention but as editor, I believe that in a time where we lay at a fork in the road in our country’s development, I’d like to position myself and my brand at the point where the road sign says “progression.” STYLEZINE has been in publication for over 5 years now and I feel we’ve produced some very captivating issues that leaked into society and forced people to see, think, live and feel outside the box.
The B Side Runway to Paris Perceptions of Engineering LA Femme Le Modele Life + Style COVER
Our last issue, the Fashion + Art Issue was packed with talents from all over the US as well as The Bahamas. We crammed the issue with visuals, photography from multiple photographers from Nassau all the way to Canada and to my satisfaction, the issue was well received.
In 2013, we will continue to explore, experiment and inspire our readers.
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Art Director Keisha Oliver Staff Writers James McKinney Gavvin Strachan Kedar Clarke Tia Williams Sherron Young LaVaughn Adderley D’Angelo Charlton Jamal Smith M’Khel hanna TK Glover Gail Lindsey Vuitton D’Arrington Sherron Young Simeon Hall Jr Photographers Scharad L EZURS Contributing Writers Mardi Cunningham Tyrina Neely Celeste Smith Nik Gee Nadine Brown Shan Oliver PJ Douglas-Sands Joeranda Braynen Nikera Cartwright Margaret Glynatsis Disha Smith Sales Team D’Asante Beneby Kendra Wilkinson ESounds Marketing Barnes Group of Companies
In our first issue for 2013, we take on a very controversial figure in our nation. When I first thought of the idea, I was somewhat reluctant to approach my team with the idea but I did anyway. Most of them were not for the idea, stating their beliefs and positions for why they wouldn’t support this issue. I understood. Scharad, however was gung-ho, he did not care in the slightest as he felt that it was our responsibility to document persons who in society, are widely known for good and bad. My nerves were at rest once I had his support and so began the “Man of the Year” issue.
Creative Director Scharad Lightbourne
Public Relations Colette Hanna Photographer: ScharadL Assisted by: Bonnett Johnson Styling: Kedar Clarke
STYLEZINE MAGAZINE © 2013. All rights reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of the owners. For more information, please contact us. No part of STYLEZINE may be produced in any form by any means without prior written consent. For permissions requests, please call 242.525.9751. For reproduction on articles, please contact Nik Barnes at via e-mail at editor@stylezinemagazine.com.
Design Team Mecko Gibson Kai Sweeting Katie Storr Keisha Oliver Kenny St John Alanzo Bannister
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
BEHIND THE SCENES
MAN OF THE YEAR ISSUE
WATCH WANT THE THE VIDEO LOOK? At arguably a controversial time in our country’s period, there’s a heavy debate over legalizing the matter of gambling and at perhaps the forefront of this debate is a wealthy, educated, wise brand. Sebas let us into his home to capture him and he opened up to us about his life, successes, failures his love life and his dreams for a better Bahamas. He sets the record straight about what this “vote” is all about. In what could be our hottest issue of the Year... Please take a mint o watch the exclusive behind the scenes video.
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You’d be surprised to know that some of the clothing our covers wear can be bought from some of your favorite stores. SMOKING BLAZER ZARA $189.99 1MX COTTON SHIRT EXPRESS $59.99 POLKA DOT BOW TIE H&M $15.00
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
MARK... SET... MOBILE... THE NEW AND IMPROVED STYLEZINE IS SO COOL, WE MADE SURE YOU’D BE ABLE TO TAKE IT WITH YOU ALL THE TIME. READ ANY ISSUE ON YOUR SMART PHONE OR TABLET PC.
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FOR ADVERTISEMENT
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
MAN OF THE YEAR ISSUE
WHAT’S INSIDE THE NEW AND IMPROVED DESIGN OF THE MAG IS SUPER INTERACTIVE. CLICK A BOX TO GO TO THAT PARTICULAR PAGE!
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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
Here’s what we think are the next hot gadgets on the market. This will satisfy any tech’s tastes buds and keep you “in” on what’s hip.
YOU MUST OWN THIS!
GoPro Hero3 BLACK EDITION
Why we love it? It packs a BIG deal into a small size. This camera has to be the most versatile we’ve ever seen. It shoots HD video in multiple formats (360p, 720p, 1080p) and multiple speeds (30, 60,102fps) and with available mounting accessories, this camera can fit almost anywhere you want it to go. This particular model has built in Wi-Fi and can be used with your smartphone to control the power and shutter. How convenient is that? If you don’t believe how amazing this camera is, check out this video we’ve pulled just so you can see the capabilities of the GoPro.
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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
Treating that special someone to a three course restaurant style meal is sure a charming way to spruce up the romance . Better yet, it beats going out on a busy night and of course not believing in the fallacy of splurging today and being broke tomorrow! For some, this may be a daunting task due to the failure to know how to even light a stove. On the other hand, others tend to get too presumptuous and try to recreate dishes that even Paul Boucuse had challenges with. Thus, the best way to entice your lover is to turn up the heat, stir in some passion, add a few drops of harrowing sweat and prayers and a sprinkle in a little love... (Oh I forgot the secret ingredient SIMPLICITY.) CELESTE G. SMITH
IGNITE THE FLAMES OF LOVE THROUGH FOOD
Appetizer Poached Pear and Spinach Salad (2) For Salad 6 quarts baby spinach leaves (18 oz.), rinsed and crisped 1 jar (6 oz.; 1 1/4 cup) walnuts 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese 1/3 cup olive oil 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1/3 cup dried cranberries Salt and pepper to taste For Poached Pears 3 Anjou Pears 1 bottle dry red wine 3/4 cups sugar 1 rind of lemon 1 cinnamon stick 1 vanilla bean Poached Pears 1. Combine bottle of dry red wine, sugar, lemon peel, cinnamon stick and vanilla bean. Bring to a simmer 2. Peel Anjou pears, cut lengthwise and core. Place pears in wine mixture, stirring occasionally, until pears are barley tender (15 minutes) 3. Cool in liquid for 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight For Salad 4. In medium bowl, combine spinach leaves, pears and walnuts. Coarsely crumble half the cheese over salad 5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, 3 tablespoons reserved pear-poaching liquid, mustard, honey, and thyme. Pour over salad and gently mix to coat, adding salt and pepper to taste. Crumble remaining cheese over salad. Pasta with Smoked Salmon and Cream Sauce (2) For Pasta 2 shallots, chopped 1 box fettuccine pasta 1 bunch fresh basil leaves 3 tablespoons extra virgin oil 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, cut into thin slices 1/4 cup white wine 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup 15% cooking cream (or 35% cream)
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Well, this three course meal will sure put the end of the night in sensual bliss and in under an hour the fumes of innermost delight will be inhaled and devoured.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
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1/2 cup parmesan cheese 6 ounces smoked salmon, cut into bite size pieces Salt and pepper 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, add pasta and cook according to directions (about 7 minutes) Heat the oil in a sautĂŠ pan and add the chopped shallots. Cook until transparent, (about 2 minutes). Add wine and chicken broth. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces Stir in the sun dried tomatoes Add the salmon, basil and cream and allow to heat through, about 1-2 minutes. Serve on the drained cooked pasta. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese
Truffles (30) For Truffles 12 ounces chocolate, chopped (semisweet or bittersweet) 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2-3 tablespoons liqueur (optional) 1. 2. 3. 4.
5. 6.
In a double boiler, combine chocolate, butter and heavy cream. Heat until chocolate is melted. Stir until you have a smooth mixture Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Pour into a shallow casserole dish and cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours If you are infusing truffles with spirits of any sort be sure to let the chocolate cool enough, so the heat does not burn off the alcohol Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small scoop (2 teaspoons), scoop out chocolate mixture, roll into one inch balls, and place on prepared baking sheet. Continue with remaining chocolate mixture Roll balls in your desired coating (cocoa powder, coconut, nuts, powdered sugar) Refrigerate truffles until ready to serve
Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Ingredients:
SWEET TEETH TYRINA NEELY
About 40 Strawberries Blueberries 8oz cream cheese, room temperature 1/4 Cup Powdered Sugar 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract Candied Walnuts (optional)
Directions: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Blend cream cheese, vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Cut the bottoms of the strawberries off to lay flat. Without cutting all the way through, slice the strawberry in quarters. Place cream cheese mixture in a Ziploc bag, snip the corner and pipe cream cheese into strawberries. 5. Garnish with blueberries and candied walnuts.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: KISHANNA SANDS
WONDER WOMAN It’s a Tuesday evening. I’m at Starbucks, Harbor Bay, looking down at my watch and I realize how early I am. Almost 10 minutes prior to my scheduled time. I must have been excited for my guest to arrive. My Iced Green Tea and I occupy the table and I begin to tap my fingers on the screen of my iPad double checking my questions and thinking to myself,
What am I going to ask this woman? I look out the window to see a curvy figure approach the door, hair blowing, clothing fitted and heels to the sky. In walks Kishanna Sands. At first, I’m intimidated. She’s talented, smart, beautiful and recent winner of the 2012 Harl Taylor Emerging Fashion Designer at the Fash Art Event.
She waves at me, whips her hair back, walks over and says three words that completely break the ice…you - look - nice. (Smiling) Ok, so you’re ready to do this? I ask, referring to this interview that I’m about to conduct. Kishanna smiles and says,
Yes.
SCHARAD LIGHTBOURNE
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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
Stylezine: Finally, the infamous Kishanna Sands. How are you at this moment in time? Kishanna Sands: I’m awesome.
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: KISHANNA SANDS
S: What’s in Kishanna’s iPod right now? KS: Well when it comes to music I’m very open minded. My song choices and what I listen to all depends on my mood. My play list consist of music from a range of different artist like Adele, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Trey Songz, Maroon5, Kesha, and Lady GaGa of course. My favorite artist of all time is Aaliyah; I still listen to all of her songs, they could never get old if you ask me. I secretly jam to a few reggae artists when I’m home alone. Oh well guess it’s not a secret anymore! S: We see your Samsung Galaxy S3 hasn’t left your fingertips. How many words a minute can you text? KS: My S3 is ALWAYS in my hand! I’ve had this phone now for about 6 and a half months and I’m still learning something new about it everyday. As for my text speed (as she finishes off a text message)…its sixty-eight words a minute! S: We can call you Kishanna right? Or what do people call you, Shanna? Shan? Kiki? KS: I prefer Kishanna. I really love my full name but my family and some friends call me Shanna or “K.” My absolute closest friends call me Shawn that’s short for Shawnell, which is my middle name. S: So (Shanna) describe this outfit you are currently wearing? Is it one of yours? KS: Well what I’m wearing now is not one of my designs It’s actually not fabulous at all (laughs). It’s just a knit top and leggings. Today I was feeling really comfy, relaxed, and casual. S: How many fans do you have on Facebook? (Yes, its random but we’d like to know) KS: At this moment I currently have 2,520 friends and 745 subscribers, I have so many requests that are pending I actually reached my limit. So subscribing to my page is kind of the only option at this time. In fact, that’s how we first noticed you, there was a chick posting outfits she’d go out in all the time so we wanted to see what all the hype was about. S: We know you get a lot of attention from guys (and probably girls too) you have an incredible body so how do you keep yourself in good shape? KS: Well thankful I’ve been blessed with great genes so I basically just try to maintain what I already got. But for the most part I do basic aerobics either at home or the gym. I sometimes go walking/jogging whenever I can convince a friend to come along (laughs). Food wise, I try to make as much healthy choices as I can but its sometimes hard because I have a sweet tooth and
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pastries is my weakness. But the good part is I know my body so over the years I’ve learnt how to maintain a balance between the right things that I should eat and the foods I love that I really shouldn’t. S: Anyway we’re straying away from the topic, Kishanna do you think you have a story to tell and are it interesting? KS: I most definitely do. I’ve over came so many obstacles and set backs in my life. Many times I felt like giving up on myself and my dreams, doubting my own potential and talents because of the fear of failing and wondering what other persons would think. I just thank God that I’m now in a place where I know who I am, and what my purpose is. I’m now doing what I was born to and loving it everyday. S: Did you always love fashion design or what made you get into it? KS: Yes in fact, I have always love fashion and have been stylish for as far back as I can remember. I’m a believer that when you look good you feel good no matter the situation. I started designing probably around the age of fifteen just making simple swimsuits and party outfits by hand for myself my sister and sometimes her friends. Around that time is also when I first learnt how to use a sewing machine. I would definitely have to give credit to my mom as the reason I decided to get into designing now at this point in my life. She is so talented and sewing is just one of the many things that she is great at. I’ve always admired her skill, she is my greatest teacher and I’m still learning from her everyday. S: We heard, you made a name for yourself off selling hair; did that come before you wanted to make clothes or after? KS: Well designing was always my first love everything else I’ve done or got involved in career wise in my life was kind of “just because”. Persons have always admired me and my style for years and my own hair/style wasn’t an exception. I started out just bringing in hair for persons in my family and close friends, and after a period of time the word got out and thus the birth of Paradise Exotic Hair. S: You recently won the Harl Taylor, emerging fashion designer award at 2012’s Fash Art Expo, what was that experience like? KS: Fash Art was definitely an amazing experience for me. It was my very first time being involved in a fashion showcase so I had no idea how much time, work, effort, dedication, and commitment went into preparing for runway shows. In preparation for the competition everyday my strength was tested. I’m just so grateful for all of the love, support, and encouragement I got from so many persons in my life that’s what really kept me going and helped me along. But completing my line in
seven weeks would not have been possible without the physical help and support I got from my mom. She has been with me every step of the way and I could never thank her enough or repay her for the assistance, time, energy and effort given to me from day one. Finishing each design was such a joy, and to see them come to life on the runway the night of the show was so fulfilling and surreal I just wish I could relive that moment forever. I entered the competition with an open mind knowing that no matter the outcome it would be a learning experience and a stepping-stone in my career as a new designer so to have won was nothing short of a blessing. I’m humbled and honored and still so grateful for the opportunity. S: How did you come up with the name Port of Paradise? KS: Port of Paradise was the end result of days and days of coming up with a name for my line/brand that would abbreviate as P.O.P. When you think of pop you think flair, attitude, energy a lot of life and being bold and that’s exactly my style and what my line portrays. Being an island girl paradise was kind of default and Port was just something a little different and unique other than some of my original ideas like Piece, and Princess. So yes that’s how the name Port of Paradise came about. S: Your pieces really stood out to a lot of folks who attended, where does your inspiration come from? KS: My inspiration came from my own personality and two different sides of me. A side that persons see more of that is real sweet, very flirty, somewhat fun, girly and fabulous, but also another side of me that persons really don’t see much of that is extremely edgy, really bold, expressive, fearless, and fierce. I think those pieces were more of a surprise factor. I tried to have a balance in my line and made sure the collection displayed both my sides perfectly, and persons would be able to see a transition. S: What do you think other designer’s do wrong in our market? KS: I think a lot of designers don’t remain true to themselves and sometimes allow persons to alter their mind-set and even style of designing. If designing is your passion it shouldn’t just be about making garments that you can get quick cash from but it should be about loving what you do and feeling fulfilled while doing it. Branding yourself and knowing what your style of designing is should be key and then working harder and harder to better your skill and make a name for yourself then eventually everything should fall in place. S: People think a designer makes whatever the client wants when in fact that is the role of a seamstress. A designer makes collections and people buy pieces from that collection. Do you think there IS a market/
education for fashion design here? KS: I can definitely see potential in a developing fashion market locally. There is a new generation of fashion designers on the rise like myself who can introduce person to a new world of fashion and style. We have a lot of fashion forward persons in our society, but It’s up to us as designers to offer what is new and trendy and show persons that they can be original and not have to settle for something store bought. It’s comforting to know you can go around town and not see fifty persons in your outfit. This goes back to my response to the previous question. I think ask long as designers remain true to their own style and offer what it is that’s fashionable from their perspective and not let clients dictate what they should be doing, there would be a lot more growth and development in the fashion industry locally. S: Where do you see fashion design taking you? KS: Designing is what I enjoy. It’s what I love doing. I’m so passionate now more than I’ve ever been. With me working hard at my craft, putting my all day in and day out to better my skill and never losing hope or giving up on my dream, I can see my self not having to work for my business but my business then working for me. As a designer being fully established and Port of Paradise becoming a household name. And also to have already made my mark and impact not only within the fashion industry locally but internationally as well. S: Would you want to inspire other young people to follow their dreams? Who inspired you? KS: Following your dream is something I cannot stress more. Having a role model or some to be an inspiration to you who can make a positive impact to your life be it directly or indirectly I feel is so important in the pursuit of success. I would only hope that my life can be an example for young persons who need that encouragement, and reminder that God has giving us all talents, find out what they are while your young, do what you love doing and work hard at it and success will eventually be the end result. I’m inspired in so many ways by my mother. She is such a strong woman and despite all that she went through in her life she always remained focused, steadfast and humble. She taught me how to put God first in all that I do and never lose hope. I would only hope that one day I can be half the woman, mother, wife, sister and friend she is. S: When can we expect to see the launch of the POP brand? KS: I’m currently working on my spring/summer line, which should be completed late April. I’m not going to give away any details about the line just yet but it’s going to be worth the wait.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: CONESHA KNOWLES
A Garden of Roses On the verge of establishing her brand as a fashion stylist, Conesha Knowles aka BlqRze (Black Rose) is pushing her creative boundaries of what is fashion and what isn’t. What colours work and which don’t and arguably her style is among the most notable we’ve seen from the women on the island. Technically at only 5 ft tall, she certainly doesn’t let her height determine the altitude of her own style and she’s bringing that style to clients via her image styling brand. Black Rose sits down with Stylezine and makes fashion sense on a lot of topics. Oh and she tells us a few secrets as well! SCHARAD LIGHTBOURNE
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So what made you decide that your love of clothing was going to turn into a job? As people, the one thing we love so much can become a vice, an addiction and consume us negatively, if we don’t turn it into something positive. I’ve set goals for myself that I must achieve by 25. I wasn’t going to go broke because of my love for fashion... So I decided to become rich from it. Like so many other Bahamians, you work in a bank; will you ever go into your passion full time? Yes, when the time is right. I love working in the bank. I’m obsessed with Fashion. There lies the difference. Why do you think we, as a society is not open enough to the creative arts just yet? I think as a society we’re still being raised to love what our parents and grandparents love. Hence, we’re still slaved in our minds to someone else’s beliefs and feelings. Therefore creative arts in our society are still a bit taboo. But that will change. Just how music, photography, and makeup artistry have become popularly accepted, so will blogging and Fashion styling. It’s only a matter of time. Name you favorite article of clothing and why? Shoes! I love shoes! Accessories can make and outfit but shoes seal the deal. Like Marilyn Munroe said, “give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world!” The right pair of shoes adds confidence to your walk, which make people notice you, and make you feel proud!
No. I welcome all trends! In fact, I really hope a Spring 2013 trend, Shorts Suits, DO catch on here! I hope the 242 are ready for it. Do you like your men shaken or stirred? I’ll take a little of both. Thank you! Do you wan to specifically style clothing or eventually venture into fashion design? I’d like to venture into Fashion design. See, I want to become iconic in the fashion industry. Especially as a Bahamian. So why limit myself? When I do venture into fashion design however, I want to begin with Shoes! Considering your height, do you like playing dress up? Oh, I don’t play dress up! I live it! My height makes dressing up a little difficult because most of my clothes have to be cut and hemmed, but looking good is worth every snip and stitch! Do you think fashion will evolve here in the Bahamas, will there be a hub for it like a California, Europe or New York? Yes I do. My Bahamians are fashionable people. Once we start to accept our own sense of style we’ll evolve into the Fashion capital of the Caribbean. Tell us something sexy and MEAN it! “I want it, so it’s Mines!” (winks)
Are there any trends you see that you hope does NOT catch on here?
WATCH THE BONUS VIDEO WANT TO SEE BLACK ROSE PUT HER LOOK TOGETHER FOR HER STYLEZINE PHOTO-SHOOT? WELL TAKE A LOOK AT THE BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO OF HER FUN FILLED AND FASHIONABLE ARTICLE DEBUT.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
GET THE SAME LOOK (or at least try)
DID YOU LIKE THE LOOK THAT CONESHA PUT TOGETHER? SHE TELLS US HOW TO ACHIEVE THIS LOOK AND EVEN WHERE SOME OF THE ITEMS CAN BE FOUND LOCALLY
Gold Chain Link Necklace $32.00 - Nassau Glamour Girls (Mall of Marathon) Clutch $20+ - Avenue XXI (Meldon Plaza) Stacked Bracelets $16.00, $7.00, and $10.00 Nassau Glamour Girls (Mall of Marathon) Nautical Striped Shirt $51.84 Nautica Store (East Str. South)
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: CONESHA KNOWLES
Paisley Skater Skirt $46.00 The Velvet Hanger (Off Carmichael Rd.) Platform Peep Toe Pumps $35.95 John’s (Palmdale Location)
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FIND 242BLQRZE ON THESE SOCIAL NETWORKS. LET HER STYLE YOU FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT, OUTING, OR EVEN PHOTO-SHOOT.
YOUTUBE
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
2013 SPRING FASHION POLICE TARGET
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: THE RIGHT BROW
THE RIGHT BROW The quest for the perfect brow has left many famished. Allow me to help you get your fill. Brows are the current obsession and I agree they should be. Brows are pivotal in defining the face. If you haven’t realized it before, think of how strange we look without them or how scary the clueless look with them . Remember what the First Lady of the United States looked like initially? Let me refresh your memory. Her brows were thin, highly arched and made her look quite angry. Today her brows have a softer look which has changed her whole face. She looks quite inviting these days. NIKERA CARTWRIGHT
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SCHARAD LIGHTBOURNE
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: THE RIGHT BROW
You know how good you look after you’ve just gotten your brows done; the instant eye lift. Well-groomed brows set off every makeup look whether you’re going for full-face glamour or a simple every day no makeup look complete with a little face powder and some gloss. Although there are countless avenues to learn how to get your brows just right, there are still so many who get it wrong. They’re either, too dark , too thick, too thin and dare I say, too perfect. Others are outright tragedies! There’s no end to the variety of brows I’ve seen; rainbows, triangles, rectangles and tangents. My favorite of all to laugh at are ones I call “Anime brows”, short for ‘animated’. You can tell a lot of care went into their creation but they’re just funny. My best advice when seeking to find the perfect brows for you is to observe natural brows. Notice that the point at which brows start, the hair is rather sparse. Therefore starting your brows with harsh lines isn’t a good idea. Also, it’s important to know where your brows should start. There’s a certain symmetry to the human face. Your brows should begin where the inner corner of your eye is, which will cause them to automatically line up with the width of your nose. Drawing them too close together or too high just throws your whole face off. (Use your brow bone as a guide.) When it comes to arching, remember that your arch should be where your pupil ends. If you place a pencil or another marker to line up with your nose and the outer corner of your eye, it shows where your brow should end.
It’s quite possible that these guidelines may not exactly work for you. However, no matter how much you despise your natural brows I am totally against shaving them all off. I think shaping and filling them in with the right brow powder/pencil is so much better than risking hair not growing there anymore at all. Most makeup artists have mastered concealing their natural brows rather than shaving them off and then creating the brows they want for the look they’re going for. (Remember, having perfect brows isn’t necessary as the object is to look as natural as possible.) This is not to be confused with using concealer as a highlight. Placing concealer around your brows to ‘highlight’ them isn’t a natural look. Every new trend isn’t for you. There are so many ways you can go wrong with concealer such as having your brows mistaken for caterpillars. Yes that’s the exact word persons have used to describe such atrocities!
WATCH THE BONUS VIDEO
CHECK OUT THIS COOL VIDEO THAT OUR VERY OWN CONTRIBUTING WRITER: CONESHA aka BLQ-RZE (BLACK ROSE) SUBMITTED THAT SHOWS YOU LADIES HOW TO SHAPE & FILL IN YOUR OWN BROWS AT HOME.
While you’re evaluating where you’ve went right or wrong, here are a few more tips: 1. Thinner brows make you look older whereas thicker brows make for a more youthful appearance. 2. Don’t just let anyone shape, pluck or thread your brows for you. 3. Purchase eyebrow stencils and try them out to see what looks best on you. 4. Be consistent with your grooming. You can maintain the shape of your brows longer by tweezing those unruly hairs the minute they show up and simultaneously lessen your visits to your groomer. 5. Try different brow colors to determine which powder/or pencil is correct for you. Black is almost always too harsh.
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6. Persons with darker hair tend to have brows that are naturally two to three shades lighter than their hair color whereas persons with lighter hair tend to have brows that a few shades darker than their hair. 7. If you’re going to use concealer around your brows, take time to pick out the concealer which complements your skin tone best. A little concealer goes a long way and always remember to blend. 8. Always check your makeup in at least two different types of lighting. 9. Don’t make your brows too thin all for the sake of an arch. 10. Practice makes perfect.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
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Lataj Charissa Henfield, Libra, 22
Bahamian 34-24-34 Current Location: Nassau, Bahamas
Defining career moment: Gracing the runway for the finale episode of Project Runway Latin America Star you’re most compared to: My walk has been compared to that of VS Angel Karlie Kloss Turn on’s: Well- groomed men Turn off’s: Men wearing ill- fitting clothing...ewww! What are you listening to right now on your iPod? Ex Factor- Lauryn Hill If we were to raid your room what would we find? Lots of books and magazines Who are what is your greatest inspiration? My mom is my greatest inspiration, she is the epitome of a strong family oriented woman. What’s your biggest fear? My biggest fear has to be fear itself, everyday I approach life with the concept that I am working towards greatness, but once in a while fear seems to have its own agenda. If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would you be? Strutting the runway for one of the world’s major fashion houses. Finish this sentence. If gambling is legalized I think the majority of the national’s profit should go towards education, specifically for increases in teachers salaries, better government facilities, as well as, lab and technical improvements.
FIND LATAJ.HENFIELD ON THESE SOCIAL NETWORKS. LET HER MODEL AT YOUR NEXT EVENT, OUTING, OR EVEN PHOTO-SHOOT.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
NEW TREND: BASILEIA N AT U R A L NAILS
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: NATURAL NAILS
I’ve never been prouder to be a part of this super hot and trendy Gel nail phenomenon, than the moment I saw First Lady Michelle Obama grace the pages of Facebook. Headline read “Michelle Obama matches her manicure to her hemline as she wows in a Tracy Reese dress and J Crew heels for DNC speech. According to Fashionista.com, the First Lady’s nail hue of choice is Artistic Colour Gloss in a shade called ‘Vogue’. It is a gel polish, which makes for a more expensive manicure, though nails remain chip-free for up to three weeks.” Like the health conscious Michelle Obama or if you’re a naturalist or just a believer in enhancing the natural you, this product is for you. Gel polish is an appealing alternative to and an escape from those hazardous substances associated with acrylic nails. Gel manicures can give the look of acrylics but with a simple polish application to the natural nail. We cure under a LED lamp for fast drying in times ranging from 5 to 30 seconds max at different stages. Removal of gel polish is fast and easy, taking only ten minutes and the nail bed is damage free!! A lasting shine and without chipping or peeling, gel manicures last up to three weeks, allowing your nail to grow stronger and longer all while looking beautiful. Gel polish is available in a vast array of colors and brands, allowing you to; like Michelle choose that perfect color to complete that perfect look....all year round!!! We at Basileia Natural Nails remain updated with trending and seasonal colors...!! See our color similar to “Vogue” in that of Princess Tiara from Hand & Nail Harmony Gelish brand.
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FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: THE ZIRI BAG
PERCEPTIONS OF ENGINEERING Engineers.
When we think of them we might think of nerdy guys with text books or maybe sweaty guys in coveralls. But that is just a perception. Engineers can actually be pretty fashion forward. This shoot features D’Andre Wilson, founder of www.myziribag.com , a business that raises funds for engineering scholarships, and Frances Awachie, a female chemical engineer. They show that though engineering can be nerdy, it can also be chic and stylish! Oh and it isn’t just for guys! D’ANDRE WILSON--IHEJIRIKA
EZURS
Ziri Bag BLACK CLUTCH
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Some other female engineers share 5 things that Fashion and Engineering have in common: Design A few of the things I love about engineering are we are always trying to make things better…. I also love the fact that we get to work in teams” – Doyin Osuntogun, Chemical Engineering & Management graduate
The number of women in engineering has been increasing over the years and they are bringing a new fashionable side to the field.
Ziri Bag BROWN CLUTCH
Technology One of the things I love about engineering is it enables you to break down any problem – Anne Griffin, Technology Development Consultant
Innovation Engineering touches on so many different aspects of life. – Camille Williams, PhD Candidate Clinical Engineering/Rehabilitation Sciences Anyone on top of fashion knows that to stay fashion forward you have to think outside the box. And that’s what engineers do everyday in so many ways. Engineers solve problems and create new innovations for a better world. Everything around us has in some way been touched by an engineer. And engineers find ways to get the mark on everything through innovative thinking. Women Some people believe that there aren’t any women in engineering, but that just isn’t true! – Megha Sharma, Reliability Engineer Women love fashion, there is no question about that. Women are creative and collaborative and that’s what makes them great engineers. 40
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Ziri Bag BLACK CLUTCH
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: THE ZIRI BAG
Engineers, like fashion designers, have to create something from nothing all the time. Like the top fashion designers we know and love, engineers work in teams to bring a product from an idea to reality. Engineers use artistic abilities like drawing and sketches in their work, just like we see in fashion.
Fashion requires the use many technological tools in their design process, manufacturing process and advertising. Computer programs to sketch designs and machines used to manufactures clothing, shoes and fashion accessories are all used by engineers. And of course, when we want to show off our great style, we use apps like facebook and instagram, and that’s engineering.
Fun This profession is such that you will never stop finding new material to challenge yourself with... not a moment of boredom! – Rezwana Sharmin, Design Verification Engineer Engineering is a profession that allows you to get involved in so many different areas there is a engineering discipline for everyone. If you are into cosmetics, medicine, automotive, communications, computers, biology, oceanography, or fashion you can find it through engineering! And I think that’s very stylish! For more on fashion and engineering or to learn about My Ziri Bag, contact D’Andre Wilson at president@myziribag.com
PERCEPTIONS OF ENGINEERING
Ziri Bag SATCHEL FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
Remember the time when Indian Remy was ‘the thing?’ The crème of the weave crop, the best of the beauty supply store best…it was everything. But since 2010 the Indian Remy Empire began to faultier (in The Bahamas) just like the Roman Empire. Brazilian, Peruvian, Malaysian even Cambodian and Russian textured weave took down Indian Remy with a vengeance. Now almost every Bahamian woman is part Brazilian (especially), Peruvian or Malaysian. DISHA SIMONE SMITH
20 1 3 S P R I N G T R E N D S Here is where the problem lies: Brazilian body wave looks remarkable on Sue. Sue is asked by 10 different women on different occasions what is that she has in her hair. 6 out of those 10 women will go and buy this same hair then they will be asked by 10 different women on different occasions. And now we have an epidemic of Brazilian-Bahamians running around. What makes it especially worst is that everyone is getting the same wave pattern, either body wave or curly.
Besides the weave identity crisis: Peanut butter is to jelly as Ombréd ends is to weave. Having the same type of weave as everyone is one thing but when it’s the same color too?!(Besides the default black or brown) it is a major issue. Bahamian women who wear their natural hair are no better! I’ve seen a few whose hair length extends beyond the regular 8 inch mark attempt to ombré their hair. Not only is the hair ombréd gold or blond but red, green, blue and multi-colors (at the A few who try to separate themselves same damn time). Do better. from the crowd chose to take on another nationality (fail); here comes The year of Bahamian hair trends in the rise of the Peruvian and Malaysian summary: army. Don’t cower in shame as you’re reading this, I too am guilty • Ombréd ends of falling Victim to the war of ‘Virgin • Body Wave Hair (From Brazilian, Brazilian Body Wave’, Peruvian and Malaysian, Peruvian straight to Malaysian hair. Because of this I can Cambodian) say that I am sick and tired of seeing • #TeamNatural people who look like me! Everyone • Spiral curls (curling wand curls) from the ‘jungaless’ (no offense) to • ‘Bahamian lacefront’ wigs 2.0 the ‘bougee’ women are rocking • Kim K-esque curls this hair, it’s annoying. But there’s a • Brandy or Patra braids guilty pleasure about it. It looks, feels, • High buns/stiff ponytails straightens and styles phenomenally. • Rihanna cuts (from the side shaved head to a low cut) I respect the efforts of Bahamian women who try to take better care What’s ahead for Spring 2013 of themselves the past year but, what according to Harper’s Bazar, Vogue: works for Sue may not work for you. BEAUTY Let us do better in spring 2013 ladies, bring the originality and personality • Twists and Braids on natural hair back to our hairstyles. We’ve (weave and extensions. LOL) lost our way. Take this article as • Neat and sleek buns and an intervention to do better. ponytails. • Natural looking sew-ins/ versatile Moving on. . . sew-ins. • More women going natural. 42
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TH E P OWER OF A H IG H HEEL SHAN C. OLIVER
STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: LA FEMME
Ladies do some of the shoe boxes in your closet bear the names Steve Madden, Aldo, Jessica Simpson or Marciano what about the pairs that we only dream about such as Christian Louboutin aka Mr. Red Bottoms, Giuseppe Zanotti or the exotic Jimmy Choo. If so then it’s a perfectly good chance that high heels are apart of your life. A good pair of heels can make the most insecure woman, confident. It takes us to a different level and that’s not just because putting on a pair makes us a few inches taller. In a great pair of shoes I tend to feel like I can do anything, be anything, accomplish anything. Yes, girls they can make you that confident!
high heels are designed the ball of our feet seem to carry the most weight and ladies I know you can relate. After taking them off all you want is a nice foot massage right in that area before reaching the toes. But if that’s not possible ladies invest in some nice feet moisturizer, I recommend anything made with Jojoba oil its great for preventing any fungal issues as well. After applying the moisturizer put on a nice pair of socks and just allow your feet to enter heaven.
How many of you ladies saw that awesome movie the Devil Wears Prada? In that flick Anne Hathaway went on that job interview in a pair of black outdated loafers, now she was noticed but for all the wrong reasons. To a few of the workers it seemed that she didn’t take her job as serious as they did, lets remember she’s smacked in the middle of the fashion world. My point is as soon as she put on her first pair of Jimmy Choo’s she felt right at home and the people around her seemed to take her a bit more serious because lets face it she’s now dressing the part. Ever notice how a pair of high heels can make even some of the most basic outfits outstanding? For instance a plain white Tee and a pair of jeans, in flats, you’re just doing chores and running errands but adding a cute wedge will take that basic outfit a step further. Let’s face the facts though, unless you’re Carrie Bradshaw in ‘Sex and the City’ or Isla Fisher in ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic,’ high heels can sometimes be a killer. So ladies if you must wear heels and I know I do, here are some of the basic tips that will probably make your days spent in them a much happier one. PEDICURES Remember toenails that aren’t groomed or ingrown nails can cause unnecessary pain. MOISTURIZE I can’t say this enough. Because of the way
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CONFESSIONS OF A SHOE-A-HOLIC Here’s one of my favorite brands Mr. Giuseppe Zanotti from his spring summer 2013 collection. A little shoe porn for all my High Heeled lovers!! Turquoise Suede Pumps • Metallic Stiletto Heel • Leather Sole and Insole • Heel: 5.1 inches • Platform: 0.6 inches • Valued at: $495
HIGH HEEL HOLIDAY Last but not least ladies this may sound a bit strange but we must give our feet a break. I read somewhere that it’s called a “high heel holiday”. I wont lie I absolutely love my high heeled treasures but I also own retro 4’s and a pair of air Jordan 9’s. All this simply means is just be that chick than go from a 5-inch stiletto to rocking a pair of Air Jordan’s and still be the most fabulous person in the room.
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STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: SPRING FOOTWEAR
THE E S S E N T I A L PA I R : THE MOCCASIN & PENNY LOAFER Since spring is fast approaching, we men can now put away boots and fur lined shoes for some easy slip-ons. These are really comfortable and versatile shoes to wear. The Moccasin and Penny Loafer are at the top of our style charts for multiple reasons. Roll you pant leg up and throw on any of these styles and trust me when I say, the more worn out these look, the better. Most of your popular brands make them so be sure to check them out online or in any department store.
JOERANDA BRAYNEN
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
He shifts his tie one centimeter to the left and the earth shakes…Sebas J. Bastian named Stylezine Magazine’s Man of the year 2012 tips his hat in acceptance of his new title. While the birth pains of his trade wrestle around him he stands still with dimples in his necktie and his trademark smile offering the words…. “We don’t live in a perfect world!” STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
Sebas was born of Bahamian soil and lived what many may have deemed a privileged childhood having had the opportunity to attend the much desired Saint Augustine’s College. At just seven years old Sebas recalls receiving the fundamentals of business. His father had a steak business in the grove in a tiny place called Smiley’s also referred to as the home of the $6.99 steak. Every Saturday he would have to help out flipping steaks and serving customers. At the age of thirteen after perfecting the skill, his father sat him down and offered him the opportunity to keep all proceeds with the exception of the sum of his receipts.
STYLING: KEDAR T. CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHY: SCHARAD L WORDS BY: STAFF WRITER ASSISTED BY: BONNETT JOHNSON LOCATION: OCEAN CLUB, PARADISE ISLAND
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“So here I was at the age of 13 banking up anywhere from two to three hundred dollars per day. I developed a habit of saving very early” Sebas Says.
STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
The extremely tech savvy Sebas at 18 while he was in college or so his parent’s thought, engaged in the biggest and most adventurous Satellite Trade off he’d ever known. People would purchase their satellite systems from specific stores and be steered to Sebas who was sold to them as the card programmer at a very reasonable cost. Sebas cleaned up in sales, and earned thousands in just days. He had found a way to entice the sales persons within the store to not only disengage their relationship with their previous programmer who would have taught him the trade but additionally adjust their profit so much so that they were now benefiting more from forwarding their customers to him. The money was coming in at such a fast paste that it soon became too distracting to juggle both school and his new found business. Sebas soon quit school to focus on his skill full time dreading the day sure to come when his parents would learn of his decision to go into full time business on their dime. His fear would soon be suppressed by his ability to repay his parents from the proceeds that he had earned during the course of his business. This was the birth of the Bahamian Mini Satellite & Programing System and the beginning of his fortune. MOET SINGS A SONG THAT NOT EVERYONE UNDERSTANDS BABY! According to Sebas, during the Christmas season just between December 19th to the 22nd 2012 Island Luck gave away a house to a much-needed person costing him just over one million dollars! If that wasn’t enough, in one of their monthly November campaigns for Island Luck, Sebas dished out an additional 250,000.00 in scholarships and not long after delivered an additional offering in Scholarships of the same value to Success Training College which he bought all in 2012. “I bought Success Training College for the purpose of empowering Bahamians. You can never make money from a school so I bought it only to see if I could line up a good qualified set of lecturers and to be
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able to provide affordable education to Bahamians. These are the little things we BLACK WEALTH CHANGES have done to attempt to preserve the fiber THE GAME of this country” Sebas explained as he stared out of the window. “DUDE, YOU CAN’T MAKE ME NO RICHER!!” -SEBAS In a very private ceremony in January 2011 Sebas laid his father to rest. His father was “To be perfectly honest with you, I prefer his role model despite Sebas’ relentless it to stay the way it is. If it’s legalized, drive and self-imposed ability to thrive the money isn’t coming from the people he provides. He recalls the immeasurable or the government, it coming from me input imparted by his father. and that’s what people don’t understand, they feel like ‘oh I’m making Sebas them Sebas had lived many firsts however richer’ Sebas says with a distasteful look in fact he’s lived more firsts than most on his face. businessmen have seen while younger than the average businessman. At just 22 “Dude, you can’t make me no richer. I Sebas was awarded a contract to provide prefer it stay the way it is! What am I gong BTC with cell phones and to be the first to do with the extra money?At the end of master distributor of the GSM Quick Cell the day, there comes a time where there Card. This was a Bahamian milestone is nothing else you can do with money. and while another first for Sebas, another How many televisions and shoes and ingenious idea that would make him Jordan’s can you buy” he continues as sits millions! back down in the couch. He dominated this field for years and in 2003 due to the success of the GSM “I see a bigger future here and hence Quick Cell Card portfolio, Sebas directed the reason I bought into the Yes vote to his proceeds into real estate flipping his begin with. It is in the best interest of the profit and building 24 apartments for Bahamian people. “ his own personal gain. The success from it led him to steer projects like the 2006 I get the sense that you had to grow up Hampton Ridge project; another of his fairly quickly, was that the case? real-estate developments that struck Gold I wouldn’t say I had to grow up very selling out in a record 7 days. quickly, but I think I chose to I place myself in a grown category just to Just a few years later, Sebas welcomed better my being. I always chose to hang a fervent invite to partner with a friend with people who were older than I was in the gaming business. While hesitant because they were the only persons who in the beginning, Bastian finally gave understood and could relate to my drive in and walked arms open wide into the and where I was mentally. gaming business. Utilizing his tech savvy capabilities, he reinvented gaming as the And the camera dances before him…. island knows it. Without question, Sebas spares no expense when it comes to his way of DOES IT MATTER IF YOU AGREE? life or his look. So to learn that he now owns his very own clothing line was of no “I remember when I was 15, I brought additional shock. my first number from Mr. T. The number man was Percey and Mr T when I was From the masculine and formal white younger, now Percey and Mr T are out and black to tangerine and fuchsias; the of the game and now someone else runs sophisticated Don Bas Collection speaks the industry. Tomorrow I’m not going to to the businessman easily transformed be Mr. Island Luck someone else will run from business to nightlife without the the industry my only solace is that I know effort. that it is still going to be here and it’s still going to benefit Bahamians in the long “Google the brand! Don’t hate, appreciate run ..it’s like red wine, it goes down smooth if
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
“There are two types of men. Men who were destined to be great and men who were destined to be great family men. I was destined to be great and you can’t be good at both.” 54
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SEBAS BAS
STIAN
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
you drink it slowly! “ The Don Bas Collection can be found at: www.donbascollection.com WITH SO MUCH GOING ON IT’S HARD TO BALANCE WORK AND A LOVE LIFE…
STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
“I had a girlfriend whom I genuinely loved but we broke up after 8 years. I had zero problems with her and I had zero regrets to having ever dated her in my life but I had to make a lot of difficult choices in my life; it’s hard to balance work and a love life.” Do you think it’s a woman’s mentality? “When it all boils down to it, it’s all the man’s fault. You have to understand…. There are two types of men, men who were destined to be great and men who were destined to be great family men. I was destined to be great and you can’t be good at both. Don’t let anyone sell you a dream. You see Obama on television and all those smiles and happiness they selling. His (expletive) family life is in shambles! Yeah he probably see’s his daughters and wife daily and they probably sit down and have dinner from time to time but he could never be the kind of father he needs to be to his kids and try to run the free world! There is just not enough hours in a day that allows that, I don’t care what nobody says. I live it every day! I try my hardest nevertheless to be the best father I can be to my kids and I am doing a pretty good job despite the odds.” “You can’t make a woman happy and try to change the world at the same time. It comes a time when you have to choose. I was given a gift; I have the know how and the knowledge to make things better for myself and for my country and that’s my passion. I made decisions that were better for everyone” he pauses for a second. “In life if you want to be great at anything, it requires sacrifice.” He learned self-control very early and today is an extremely successful and steady handed businessman.
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With 2 million dollars in your right pocket, swag in your left and both back pockets full of achievements it’s not hard to see why fighting off the ladies would have proven a challenge. “I got caught up in the girls here it is, I’m 19 and with 2 million dollars. Every girl in the world likes you and I was like….I like you too!” THE RATTLESNAKE… There are so many people that believe the initial source of your earnings to have been achieved by way of drugs or illegal activity where or how do you think this idea came to be? “People naturally find it hard to believe things that seem unbelievable and as a result they start to tack on realistic conclusions to how these things could have come to be. I really can’t blame them, I suppose I would be guilty of it too if I were to see a young man in his teens come to the kind of success I have seen. It has much to do with Age vs Success. Success is accepted by society to be realistic for a certain age group anything outside of that idea is unbelievable and is automatically scrutinized. The difference between others and myself is that I wouldn’t say it. To think it is one thing but to openly express untruth derived from an assumption is just wrong. It is deformation of character.” You were extremely young when you found success. I would imagine that there were many businessmen who slaved their way to the top for decades before they found their places and hence those who found you less than deserving to be viewed at par with them. Was this the case and how did you cope? “It wasn’t easy really and I definitely wasn’t openly accepted in fact even today years later some still find it hard to digest but in your mind you have to come to a place where you move away from considering how people feel about the things you have deemed beneficial to you and your way of life. I became extremely focused ignoring what people said and how they felt. You can’t please every one and I ain’t trying.”
With the armor car bust a perfect example, is there a connection between crime and numbers? Should the country have voted yes? “No. In principle, I feel a “No Vote” . People who want to gamble will gamble just as they always have and those who wish to refrain from the act will do so just as they always have. I certainly don’t believe that a yes vote will generate criminals, absolutely not! Where employment is low however, crime will increase, it’s a proven fact. I do think that were a man is unable to feed his family or is subject to the persistent cries of his hungry daughter there will be a desperate man and hence crime. I have seasoned criminals who work for me and the reason I hire people like that sometimes is because when they were younger, they would have made senseless mistakes and racked up a record. Now in their mature years they still have those records trailing behind them but often aren’t the same person and it’s very hard to find a job with a criminal record. It only goes to show that people are willing to work if jobs are available. If you have tried to find work and you can’t find work, then you try to borrow, when that door doesn’t open you try to find someone who can take care of you and no one want’s to take care of a grown man so now you’re sitting on the blocks having tried everything. You have not eaten all day, your kids are hungry, you are now forced to take matters into your own hands.” Do you agree that there has been bribery or luring of votes during this recent referendum by both yourselves and your competition? “No. I don’t agree. Many yeas ago and even before I would have gotten into the game and before there was even mention of a referendum we have always had Annual Christmas parties where patrons were able to enter their names into a drawing and we drew names at our Christmas parties and gave out various gifts so to insinuate that this Christmas is any different is absurd. Our patrons have become accustomed and expect that during the Christmas holidays they would have a change to win something
for their supporting our business. We ran a very clean campaign. What we’ve done is no different than we have always done every year. At Christmas we have always given away gifts and thanked our consumer for their business. How quickly we forget. How is it any different from businesses giving away calendars to its consumer or cookies as a way of saying thank you for sticking with us this year? It’s not. Not only is it just as we have always done, it is also no different than the politicians do at a general election. We have posted banners, paid for ads etc. What we have not done is paid for votes as the opposition has implied. I thought we were done with this; the days when we would resort to lies and deformation of character to affect opinions.” VOTE BAHAMAS: Stylezine got in with a few Bahamians nearer to the January 28th Referendum and they put it to us straight! “At the end of the day this entire situation boils down to blockers and people who can’t see other people make it and just sit small. There have been a select few dominating the Bahamas for as long as I have been alive. Their kids go to the best schools and colleges and they eat caviar for breakfast, high-end sushi for lunch and dine on their yachts for dinner. Every market has their family name carved in the head stone. They control the borders, they control the prices, they control The Bahamas and in retrospect they control Bahamians. When the metal hits the road only long dollars have a say and today Sebas and his business counterparts have risen to that challenge. This angers the brunt of the select few of which I speak. When you really listen to the meat of conversations being tossed back and forth, the money these men have made doing what they do is where the problem really lies for the movers and the shakers. If gambling is not where your interest lies then keep doing what you do and leave us alone! Anonymous Vote Yes Contributor! Legal can’t be the right word we want to use can it? If we used the word legal it would cry blood tears over the governments that
have allowed these businesses to continue to exist. Using that word makes us sound and look ignorant as a people. Lets settle for the word regularize in which case we have moved from an E average to a B on the educational scale and now we can have an intellectual conversation. It is no secret that Bahamians fear anything foreign; it is our way to be habitual and religious. This referendum begs us to move away from that. While I feel we are rushing ahead of ourselves with this process, I feel wholeheartedly that this can be of sound good for the Bahamian if it is done in the right way. You can add salt to a pot but if applied generously and without caution your chances of having to start the entire dish over is closer to 99%. I don’t gamble, but I do see the crumbling of our country all around me and it’s a heavy feeling. I don’t think we should allow ourselves to be caught up in the personal gains of the parties involved because it is not our fight. Rather embrace the reduction in governmental debt, the increase in the job market etc… Anonymous Yes Vote Contributor! Compare him to the businessman that sells a can of cream for 2.99 next to the food store that sells the same can of cream for $0.89 or the politician who buys his vote for $100.00 a pop just weeks before the ballets are cast. Compare him to the Customs Officer who welcomes a brisk tip of $800.00 to easily oversee $3000.00 worth of merchandise or the crooked cop who caught you with a pound of weed and offers you a tap on the wrist for a grand. It’s business, it either works or it doesn’t, either way you can’t make everyone happy! It’s mind over matter….If you don’t mind, it just don’t matter! Anonymous Yes Vote Contributor! ON THE FLIP SIDE If people would simply sit and think of the detriment a yes vote would cause this country, they would refrain from making hasty, lasting and wreck less decisions. I fear more so for my kids, I have lived a good chunk of my life and while I have a bit more to embrace they have their entire lives ahead of them. If we, their seniors,
the persons they look up to for advice and guidance direct them down the path of destruction who pray tell will be their savior? To inject a spirit of chance into our children is a mistake we will never live to retract. To advise them that spending a $1 to achieve $7000.00 while extracting the ingredient of hard work is to encourage them that work is not necessary and that those who slave, slave because they don’t have a lucky hand. I have worked all the days of my life. My children know me to go to work in the morning and return with the bread and butter that keeps them alive not to return with a ticket to the dinner table and wait to hear the results of those spending’s to determine if they will eat. Anonymous No Vote Contributor!
This foolishness reminds me of a time I walked into the grocery store with my son in The United States of America. I shopped and as I was walking out I heard this screaming alarm go off. His hand clutched in mine and the trolley full of goods paid for before me, I was approached by 1 police officer and a security of that store. My son had lifted and item and slipped it into our cart unbeknown to me. At just 5 years old he was disciplined heavily for 1) making me shame 2) lifting something that he knew we did not pay for and 3) for taking a chance. This is where we are being asked to take our children, our country, to a place where it is ok to take that which you did not slave and toil for. The bible says by the sweat of man’s brow so shall he eat bread, not by the chance he takes….. Anonymous No Vote Contributor! There are many that may disagree with his way of life or better the gaming element of his life and on the flip side there are those that welcome his decisions. These turn a blind eye to the elements of the industry directing their attention to a full fledged spin on the wheel of chance. And out of the silence maintained by the people following for them a victory, their leader speaks…. All gaming and web operations will cease effective immediately!
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
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“I got caught up in the girls here it is, I’m 19 and with 2 million dollars. Every girl in the world likes you and I was like…I like you too! SEBAS BASTIAN
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STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
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STYLEZINE COVER STORY :: MAN OF THE YEAR :: SEBAS BASTIAN
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“If the law says I must close then I will close“……pending……. -Sebas Even a night of victory for the disapproving proved short-lived with headlines of a challenge geared towards the unanimous results revealed in January 28ths referendum. Just 24 hours later a triumphant delay for the gaming industry that would reveal changes in payouts assumed by many to be punishment for the perusal of a NO VOTE! Either way, business resumes as usual as the wheels of chance continue turn to contrary to popular decision! Just a little Oprah to start the year off right… Sebas has many ideas for his homeland and his people. One of which lies in the form of Real Estate. He intends to redesign a platform for affordable homes for all Bahamians, not the partially affordable ones that are now advertised as affordable but genuinely affordable land and property that Bahamians can actually afford. Yet today carelessly drenched in success, Sabas….. reigns a fashion designer, the owner and founder of Island Luck, the father of two beautiful daughters, the owner of several elaborate pieces of the pie and has but one yearning: to fly a plane. An entrée he will very soon come enjoy having already set his gears in place to begin flight school. “I only have one life and I’m going to ride it till the wheels fall off!” Sabas believes it is necessary to live life to the fullest without fear or regret. He has had to make many choices in his life that were not always the popular one but never the less the best ones for him and now a Millionaire! All glasses raised to the man of the year! Disclaimer: Under no circumstances should the content of this interview be assumed to be the views of the members, management or staff of Stylezine Magazine.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
>HEAVY ROTATION It’s been awhile since I wanted to give you guys to projects at the same time but I really do think you guys should cop a listen to both of these projects. I’ll start with the one that’s a little older. A few months back Joe Budden gave up a glimpse of what people could expect from his continually pushed back album “No Love Lost” in the form of a mix tape. He announced the title to be “A loose Quarter”, signifying his status as apart of the four-man group aptly called Slaughterhouse. The tape is every bit of what you’ve been seeing of Joey on the new “Love & Hip-Hop” show, plus so much more. This tape displays how much of a complex person he is and how he so freely lays it all down on the table knowing what he is and facing it every day. It’s just an awesome life story to listen to is what it is. The Fifteen-song project isn’t as in depth as his mood music project goes but it still is a lot to take in. Joe grabs constant collaborator Emanny (Part of Summer Leather Vest with Joe) for five tracks on the along with Ab-Soul, Royce Da 5’9” and a few others. Tracks like “What Y’all Want”, “More Of Me” & “Off 2 The Races” are definite favorites and just have so much soul in them. (You’ll see what I mean when you hit play) This is a must have tape for Budden fans and music lovers alike.
FOLARIN WALE +DJ CLARK KENT
A LOOSE QUARTER JOE BUDDEN
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Next up a tape released a little more recently that had a lot of hype behind it…especially on the social networks like twitter. So much hype that I was praying it didn’t turn out like “Eleven One Eleven”. Yes, I’m talking about Wale’s most recent release. Wale hinted at his new project titled “Folarin” for a while on twitter and then finally came out and gave us the info and then soon after he dropped the tape itself. Speaking on my previous “” mention I was so glad to hear that even though Wale didn’t quite go back to his “Attention Deficit” & “More About Nothing” days that at least he kept it more of himself with less of the MMG influence. Not to say that “” wasn’t listenable, just that I’d rather not listen to it is all. It just could’ve been better and “Folarin” is Wale’s reconciliation. I thoroughly enjoy this tape. Not every single song (That’s rare with any project), but for the most part it was a well-put together piece of artwork. From the single cover down to the tracks that follow each other. It’s a tape you can play all by your lonesome or you can play it at a party and “Get The People Going” (In my best Will Ferrell voice lol). Anyway, it’s pretty dope and worth the listen. Honorable Mention: “God Will’n”, Juelz Santana’s first project in years (Literally). A pretty dope effort for what it was, and we’re still waiting on his “Born To Lose, Built To Win” album #JustSayin’
>ARTISTWATCH
There are tons of talented folks on this side of the globe. Some of who get far too much attention and others who just don’t get enough. Cocaine 80s is one of the latter. For the past few years they’ve been slipping their music out to the masses in small quantities on several EPs but not really gaining the attention they deserve from the super music they’ve been putting together. It started back in 2011, when Def Jam Records VP and ARTium Records CEO, NO i.D. decided to put together a side project with artists and friends that he obviously had faith in, to do something like this with them. Being that NO i.D. is in fact one of the most sought after producers in the game, especially since Kanye announced him as his mentor back in that day, I’m sure any artist would be down for the ride with him. But only a select few were given that opportunity. Among those artists were another one of NO i.D.’s Mentees Common, Singer/ Songwriter James Fauntleroy II of “The Underdogs” (He’s written for artist like Rihanna, Chris Brown, Brittney Spears, Brandy and so on), the talented singer & producer Makeba Riddick also
known as “Girl Wonder” and most recently after her feature on their latest EP “The Flower of Life”, Jhene Aiko has Joined up with Cocaine 80s to become apart of what I feel will be one on the most powerful groups in music history if they continue to make the right moves. Since their birth in 2011 Cocaine 80’s has released a total of four insane EPs that are almost indescribable bodies of work. Their first project “The Pursuit EP” was simply amazing and anyone who’s heard can attest to the fact that tracks like ”Nameless” are modern marvels to say the least. They have since released three more EP projects. The latest of which is titled “The Flower Of Life EP” and I would advise you all take a listen to it. check out their website/ Tumblr Page (http://cocaine80s.tumblr.com) for the download and other little cool things that make them so different from everyone else doing music. Check out the cover for “Flower Of Life” above. Enjoy
>THROWBACK I know, I know. It doesn’t feel like much of a throwback, but think about it for a second. It’s been over five years since this track first hit the airwave and mp3 players. There was something so special about this track at the time. Not necessarily the lyrics or the beat…but just something about the song itself. It felt like a huge move for the whole scene of music here at home and in some ways it was. You knew every time you heard “Hey shawty, when you’re feelin’ lonely”, it was time to sing along. Especially when they dropped the music video and it was the first Bahamian video on Tempo. It was just big for its time and it still holds some of its flavor today. So in light of that, everyone lets give “Shawty” an official celebratory play (You know you want to…go ahead) and raise our glasses to the guys that wrote it.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
It’s becoming almost necessity to take everything with you everywhere when it comes to things like pictures, movies and music. We want to be able to have it all on the go. Everything mobile and ready to use. Apple is one of the best companies for devices to help with that. The iPod, iPad, iTouch & iPhone are some of the most useful and ingenious pieces of equipment to have ever been created and it’s becoming almost difficult for some of us to go day to day without them. For music lovers and tech heads in one, Yamaha has something awesome on the market for you to “Take The Party With You” as the slogan says. The Yamaha PDX-11 portable player dock will be an amazing addition to your electronic family, especially if your one of those people that likes to hear your music loud. I mean really loud. But, it can of course also be used for moderate sound whenever you need. With summer hot on our heels this toy is perfect for taking to the beach or helping set that family barbecue/grill-out off right. You can pick yours up from the amazon shop for around 90 bucks or if you want to deal directly with Yamaha it’ll cost you more like $130 from their stores or website.
>SOUNDTOYS
YAMAHA PDX-11 (iPhone, iPod) DOCK SPEAKER
WATCH THE BONUS VIDEO SEE HOW COOL THIS AUDIO ACCESSORY REALLY IS. VISIT THE YOU TUBE LINK BY CLICKING ON THE VIDEO SCREEN TO THE LEFT.
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Ask yourself: ‘What is my brand? What are the top three things that you want people to think of within that first 30 seconds of meeting you?’ First impressions are crucial, especially when you’re trying to get potential clients or investors on your side. When you walk into that all important pitch meeting, the first thing everyone sees, before you even open your mouth, is the way you’re dressed. Use your attire to project what you want to communicate! Always dress to impress .. after all most of us spend 40+ hours behind a desk, we might as
MARGARET GLYNATSIS
well look our best.
D R E S S T O I M P R ES S POINTERS Time & Place for Everything! Everything has it’s time and place. Sexy, Frumpy, Sweaty and Vulgar have no place in the work place… even on casual Fridays. Clothing worn for special activities should be saved for those activities. Dress Down with Style. Even on casual business days, be prepared. Keep a coordinating jacket handy to dress up a little for the unexpected meeting with the boss or conservative clients.
WOMEN FOR A MEETING
Add a Little Pizzazz without being ‘Extra.’ Take it easy on the accessories. Accessories are the extras that can give each of us individual style. But remember, in the work environment, less is more. When in doubt dress UP. In business, it’s better to be over dressed than under dressed, especially when making a good impression. Remember, if you’re serious about progressing your career and your business, be ready to dress to impress anyone, anytime, anywhere.
MEN FOR A MEETING
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S T Y L E Z I N E I N S I D E F E A T U R E : : K G M A L LY
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IS FOR KG is not the average 17 year old. KG is a superstar. KG is an overnight celebrity and do you know how he became one? The way everyone else does…a video gone viral! As a spokesperson for all grocery store packing boys, KG fills us in on why he created the video and undoubtedly why the term “bub” is now sweeping the nation. CLOTHING: FINE THREADS PHOTOGRAPHY/STYLING: SCHARAD L ASSISTED BY: HUDEN JOHNSON LOCATION: SAWYERS FRESH MARKET
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
S T Y L E Z I N E I N S I D E F E A T U R E : : K G M A L LY
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So KG, what is your government name? Jamall Canrick Petty. Is this your first job in your life, as a packing boy? Yes it is. My dad said I needed to work if I wanted to buy nice things. (sighs) So what’s the hype about being a packing boy? Is it the easiest way to make a quick dollar? Well in my opinion, packing bags are the easiest because I don’t have to work hard and depending on the personality off the customer I get tipped very high at times. The struggle must be real then? Is the packing boy industry one for a hustler? Well it takes a real hustler to pack bags because packing is a job that a lot of people discriminate against, probably because they make smaller tips…so yes, you MUST hustle to get paid well. So let’s get right to it, you became an overnight celebrity with your “Bub” video. What made you create this video? Shockingly yes, as the days went by more people began to watch and share the video making me became more known. I created the video because when I first started packing bags, I noticed packing boys would run away when they saw a girl or a friend they knew come in the shop. If their friend were to see them packing they would laugh at them and make jokes, suggesting they don’t make any money.
because I can make more money than some people’s paycheck! I also wanted to show packing boys there wasn’t anything to be ashamed of because we have more “bub” than the same people laughing at us! So this is about a girl? Did a girl reject you because she saw you were just a “packing boy?” Not really, it’s for anyone who thinks poorly of packing boys. I saw a girl reject one off my friends who packs bags as well. She said things like, “What could I do with a packing boy? You think I want a boyfriend who only makes 6 dollars?” My friend walks off ashamed and I felt sorry for him. So this video was more like an anthem for all packing boys who have been through this experience? Have you experienced the same? Yes it’s more like an anthem and no its never happened to me that’s why I made this video so people would respect packing boys more. So what has the response been since the video came out? How many “likes” did it get within the first 24 hours? It got a great response a lot of packing boys who I never knew came to me and said they respected me because they packed bags also and it deterred a lot of young girls from discriminating. I got 100 likes and 200 shares within an hour of the time I uploaded the video, but the shares are still increasing and the last time I checked, it was up to 1,800 shares.
So I made the video to show everyone that I am also a packing boy and I am proud of it
WATCH THE BONUS VIDEO GO INSIDE SAWYERS FRESH MARKET TO SEE THE BEHIND THE SCENES OF THIS COOL PHOTO-SHOOT WITH KG MALLY AND CREW ON THE MAKING OF HIS STYLEZINE MAGAZINE DEBUT.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
10 Q U E S T I O N S DELANO SWEETING + SHON MILLZ KC: I see that you’ve hand selected Brooke Sherman to rep your organization in the 2012 Miss World Competition. Why Brooke as you first queen? DS: I selected Brooke for Miss Earth Bahamas 2012 after talking with and considering her and a few other young ladies. I didn’t have much time, but from that process she was ultimately chosen because she is the epitome of the kind of young lady that I want the legacy of Bahamas Beauty International
Kedar Clarke: Delano Sweeting: Pageant Director. How does is feel to finally hear that? Delano Sweeting: As crazy as it may seem, I’m still in shock that this has happened so soon. I knew it would, because I’ve been working at it for a long while, but my schedule didn’t have me here just yet. In short...I am blessed! KC: You‘ve been around pageants for years. How will your organization differ from the other 50 million titles in the country? DS: There will be many MAJOR differences. Most notably however, will be the fact that I come into it fully aware and resolute in the fact that this is a business. I will operate it and all things relative, accordingly. KC: You’re well known for transforming others into their “best selves”. Who inspires you? DS: My inspiration comes from the individual. The character, movement and aspiration of the person that I am working with helps to develop the concept of where we take things.
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I don’t like the term “jungaless,” but I def would choose that one!
to be built on. She is a young woman with strong work ethics and strong moral conscience and values. She is an intelligent and amazing person whose physical beauty is only second to the beauty of her heart and character. I wanted future contestants to understand that this is the kind of girl that I like and appreciate as my representative for the organization. So for all intents and purposes, she is the measuring stick. KC: I’m so excited for you! When is the pageant date for the 2013 crowning? DS: This year’s pageant finale is set for June 16th. It is important to know though, that I plan on having a full week of pageant competitions. From the outside, I’ve always thought dragging it out over a month was to agonizing, so one week of serious hard work and competition is what I am working on. KC: Are you going to have a direct hand
at picking your future winners or are you leaving that up to your judges? DS: I feel my say is in the way I structure the pageant production and the development of the scoring system of the pageant. After I select the official contestants that are it for the “direct” say in my queen. I will trust that the judges that I select will, after having been thoroughly informed of what the organization is looking for, do a good and honest job of what I asked. KC: I think most pageants are rigged. Being on “the scene” as a bystander, I’m sure you felt the same way. How transparent is your pageant system? DS: The transparency of my pageant will be on the stage. It is a competition so I do expect to have some people feels different about it. The contestants for sure will understand all of what is going on in that regard. KC: Tall “jungaless” with a good body or a short refined girl? DS: LOL...I don’t like the term “jungaless”, but I def would choose that one. KC: Conch salad and beers with close friends or dinner at Tavern on The Green with someone special? DS: You are wrong for this because you know me and this is difficult because conch salad is my favorite and a great 5 star meal is definitely something I go for. The company doesn’t make a difference because I make the best of all company. KC: I know you well and you’re “pushy”. Are you planning to take over any other title franchises? DS: I don’t think that “pushy” is the correct word, instead I would say focused. For example, right now I am focused on the fact that I have this new organization and with it the opportunity to do something different and exciting. I am putting my all into ensuring that this, my inaugural year, will be the first of many amazing productions and the start of the journey to the Bahamas’ first international Miss title.
DELANO SWEETING
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
SHON MILLZ
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10 Q U E S T I O N S KC: Shon Millz…why that name, especially since it has no correlation with your “guvment” name? SM: When I was younger and would call my friends house, if the person I wanted to speak to did not answer the phone, I would be hesitant to leave my real name. So I would always go with the first name that came to mind and for some reason that would always be Shon. After a while people caught on to it, they started to make a joke out of it and would be like “ this Shon eh “ . When thinking about an artist name some of my friends laughed and said “what about Shon?” I said to myself, yea its not bad. I went on a site called, top last names of the world (I think that’s the name of the site), ‘Mills’ grabbed my attention and being the creative person that I am, I turned the S into a Z and Shon Millz was born .
I don’t really HAVE a cutta count..but females be trying!
KC: I’ve seen you come up as a photographer and a really good one at that. Has music always been in your background? SM: Yes! From I was about lets say 11 years old, I was always into music. I wrote my first rap song in grade 7 or 8. I remember I was asked to write a song one Sunday morning for church and it became an every other Sunday performance after that. I was never shy of the stage, as far as photography, I picked that up in grade 12. I bought my first camera for only $100 and my love for photography was born that day. People always say my work looks amazing and think I’ve been doing it for years. Truth is, its only been about 9 months the most. I just call it, a gift from God to me. KC: The greatest challenge for new artist is being able to survive off of little money,
will you continue as a photographer to subsidize your other bills? SM: At the moment yes, its the only move I have right now! So I will continue doing that (photography) and producing music videos until this record deal comes this year or next year the latest …. I hope. KC: You’ve got this “smooth thug appeal”. Are you really one of those “knock-off ” thugs that went to private school and grew up in a gated community? Bro, I wish I grew up in a gated community! I was born and raised in Fox Hill & Nassau Village. You can’t be soft looking and grew up around there. Life was hard though, I went to government school most of my life and then a small private school in junior high. Honestly government school was a party, plenty girls, hardly attended class and on every sports team. I was always running favors for teachers all day and never in class and somehow was getting a 1.90. I had to wise up and graduated with honors and head boy a that . KC: Which top musician would you compare yourself to? SM: Well, coming up now is kind of funny how me and Kirko Bangz think alike. We are the same age born the same year and some of the same things he was facing, I’m starting to face life wise. But when your broke and you know what your fans want no matter what anyone says the people will always speak and majority will always rule. As a melody rapper which I’m being more known for is what i will stick to until I have a clear way to evolve my self along with my fans.
SM: (laughs)I don’t really have a cutter count. I guess it’s because any female who’s trying to talk to me or ‘get at me’ because of what she sees going on now. Honestly, I bypass them cause a thirsty chick is not attractive at all! KC: What’s your biggest inspiration in life? SM: Well it has to be the fact that I never want my children to have to go through any of the heartaches that I have ever felt in my life! I need to make sure that enough is provided not just to take care of them for 18 years with food and clothing, but I wanted to able to provide them with college needs. When they’re finished I should have businesses for them to take over to help give them a jump start. If the Kelly’s and other families could do it the Elliott’s could do it two providing for a generation not just a child. KC: What makes you smile when everything is seemingly going wrong? SM: The fact that people are supporting and showing love and encouraging me every step of the way. Even some people I aint’ seen in years, when they see me they be like “Yo, I proud a you, keep doing ya thing”. One of my friends who graduated from Jr. school with me said to me “ yea you got to make it so they could see government school children from our generation ain’t just working to Atlantis and on the streets they big time celebrities too.” … THAT touched me. KC: 5 years from now, what do you want people to be saying about “Shon Millz”?
SM: I guess for the most part, for them to be saying … “I remember that bey he been KC: The young lady from your music to school with me, look at him now Mr. video, is that your girl? If not, is she single? Celebrity (laughs).” The females might be like “ so y’all ain’t see Owen spending a lot of SM: (laughs) Nah! She is not my girl merely, time with Cassie them on the red carpet at a really good friend of mine! I think she is MTV and the Grammy’s … girl I think they (single), but I’m not sure especially because dating!” Even though I think Puffy would that’s the first thing every male been asking never let that go, ain’t bad to dream tho!! me …“ Bro, she single?” KC: What’s your “cutta count” now that you’ve got a music video out there?
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STYLEZINE INSIDE FEATURE :: FOLLOW THE CROWN
When she walks into a room of men and women can’t help but stare. Standing nearly 6’5” when she wears nothing less than 5” heels Miss Universe Bahamas 2012 Celeste Marshall towers over nearly everyone and overwhelms the room with 3 things: her smile, her amazing body and her humility. The title of “Miss Bahamas” has been held in high esteem by the entire island archipelago of 700 islands and cays known as the Commonwealth of the Bahamas for over 50 years as the legacy of queens has been filled with the nation’s most beautiful and intelligent women of all shades. Many of these women have excelled in politics, the judiciary, tourism, banking and hospitality and some have graced the pages of international fashion magazines, commercials and television. More than just a beauty queen the role of Miss Bahamas is one of an ambassador who represents her country as she competes at the Miss Universe or Miss World pageants. She is a renaissance woman with the opportunity to travel the world and demonstrate to the world what the Bahamas believes inner and outer beauty are, what poise should be and what intelligence should sound like. Miss Bahamas is more than a figurehead, but a title that little girls daydream about becoming, and little boys want to hug, kiss or grow up to marry. Miss Universe Bahamas 2012 lives up to that as she’s “all that” and more.
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WORDS: PJ DOUGLAS-SANDS PHOTOGRAPHY: SCHARAD L STYLING: DELANO SWEETING FOR DS LIFESTYLE HAIR: DEVON HANNA FOR D-FACTOR ASSISTED BY: ERIN BROWN MAKEUP: ITALIA WILLIAMS FOR EYE CANDY ASSISTED BY: HUDEN + BONNETT JOHNSON FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LOCATION: OCEAN CLUB, PARADISE ISLAND
LIFESTYLE
Celeste invited The DS3 Group to #followthecrown and spend some time with her as she and fellow beauty queen Miss World Bahamas 2012 De’Andra Bannister cohosted Fresh Entertainment’s A Celebration of Love Post Valentine’s Concert Weekend. I had the opportunity to see her in her element interviewing Grammy award singer and songwriter R. Kelly, working a room, smiling, taking photos with fans, answering questions from the media and telling R. Kelly about the country she loves so much The Bahamas. She looked amazing at every photo shoot, rehearsal, press conference and performance. Naturally beautiful it seemed effortless. When the weekend was nearly over, and after the radio and television interviews ended, Celeste and I had an opportunity to sit down for Sunday brunch at SuperClubs Breezes for a one-on-one. I couldn’t wait for my opportunity to ask some of the questions everyone wants the answers to but nobody really wants to ask. PJ: How are you feeling? You had a crazy media schedule amidst all of the excitement. CM: I feel great! It was a long week but working alongside R. Kelly, the US radio stations and the local press was enjoyable. Co-hosting the All White Pre-Party with Stefan Legend and Miss World Bahamas was something new because, unfortunately, Miss Bahamas queens aren’t usually incorporated in major events like A Celebration of Love. It was historical on many levels including having an A-List artist perform outside of a resort and co-hosting. Spending time promoting the Bahamas for me is always an amazing experience. PJ: You’ve had a busy reign. What have you been up to since you were crowned? CM: Well after winning the title Miss Universe Bahamas in July 2012 I spent several months preparing for the Miss Universe competition, travelling and training. Now I’m getting ready for the next chapter. PJ: People assume after you are crowned Miss Universe Bahamas you just move on to the next step which is the Miss Universe Pageant. What type of preparation does the Miss Bahamas Organization provide? CM: That’s a great question. MBO sent me to Nicaragua to participate in the Fashion for Smiles Benefit Gala and Fashion Show where 15 Miss Universe queens together with Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes raised funds for the international organization Operation Smile,
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which provides free reconstructive surgery for children born with facial deformities across the globe. It was a great cause, and it gave me an opportunity to meet many of the women that would be my competition at the Miss Universe Pageant. We spent time visiting the hospital in Nicaragua where the surgeries were performed, and it really reminded me not to take anything for granted. PJ: That must have been nerve-wracking travelling so far from home for the first time. CM: Actually it was amazing! It wasn’t my first time away from home though as I spent 6 months in Guatemala last year learning Spanish by immersion, so it gave me an opportunity to speak Spanish with the other contestants. Had a wonderful time working the runway for the Latino designers like Eduardo de las Casas. I was the only nonLatina there, so speaking Spanish fluently was a benefit. All the ladies were so nice. Made some friends for a lifetime. PJ: How long were you in Nicaragua? CM: I was there for nearly 5 days then I flew to Maine for intense training with my Miss Universe coach, Grace Fontecha and her team. PJ: Now you know Bahamians always ask, “Why couldn’t Miss Universe Bahamas be trained by a local coach? Why is foreign always better?” What do you say to that? CM: Well Grace Fontecha is a Guiness Book of World Records holder. She has trained back to back Miss Universe winners, and she together with her team Noel Garcia (makeup) and Ashley Lauren Kerr (stylist) really have
“Until we have Bahamians who have delivered Miss Universe winners, it is hard to determine if we have discovered the winning formula.” CELESTE MARSHALL
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
CELESTE MARSHALL
“Everyone wants to complain that Miss Bahamas didn’t wear clothes by Bahamian designers or a costume made by a Bahamian, but when it comes time to providing those items people don’t live up to their promises and their commitments.”
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a proven track record for delivering winners who make the top 10 at Miss Universe. Until we have Bahamians who have delivered Miss Universe winners, it is hard to determine if we have discovered the winning formula. PJ: I see. Wouldn’t it be a conflict of interest for Grace to train Miss Venezuela then come back and train Miss Bahamas? CM: People wonder that but Grace and Ashley train you based on your individual personality type, your strengths, your weaknesses, your body type. They incorporate your personality and culture to accentuate who you are and bring out the best in you. What looks good or works for me wouldn’t necessarily work for another queen so I don’t think the training can be cookie cutter. PJ: How long was that training? CM: I was in Maine for a few weeks. I learned so much about me, creating my personal style and accentuating my positive attributes. I learned how to apply makeup and style myself for any occasion, which is a must because you can’t have a chaperone, makeup artist or glam squad everywhere you go. PJ: So after Nicaragua, training in Maine and then heading to New York City to shoot with world renowned fashion photographer Fadil Berisha for Diamonds International you had to be on cloud nine when you got to Las Vegas for Miss Universe right? CM: Definitely there was an adrenaline rush. My team and I were really pushing hard going in to Miss Universe to make sure that the pageant blogs were featuring me and my photos to show the world that The Bahamas has a contender for Top 16. Facebook, Twitter and my website were going nonstop. If I wasn’t being interviewed, I was being prepped with questions or getting my wardrobe together even hours before I got on the airplane. PJ: Watching Miss Universe from the preliminaries up until the final telecast I would have sworn you were going to make the Top 16. Congratulations on being featured in the international press. You were in NBC’s TV commercials and newspapers all over the world plus the pageant blogs had you as the “Black girl to beat”. How did it feel? Did it give you a false sense of security? CM: Not at all. The Miss Bahamas
Organization kept stressing to me that pageant blogs don’t mean anything although they are a great barometer of whether you are on anyone’s radar. Miss Universe is about how you perform on-stage, as well as how you act when you think no one is watching. Grace and Ashley stressed that getting along with the staff and fellow contestants were also both important. I knew that with over 70 women who were all the most beautiful and intelligent in their countries vying for the Miss Universe crown and just as hungry as me, it couldn’t be easy. Former queens gave me lots of advice and words of encouragement too. PJ: In the preliminaries you looked amazing. You wore Kooey Swimwear, Chinese Laundry shoes and that fabulous yellow dress by Sherry Hill who were sponsors of the Miss Universe Pageant, but your evening gown was by Eduardo de las Casas. Let’s talk about that national costume. You depicted a pirate. Some Bahamians posted on your website, Twitter, Facebook and pageant message boards that you looked slutty, it was too revealing, and definitely not “Bahamian” enough. However, top fashion blogs named your costume 1 of the 20 best costumes of the pageant and one of the top 10 sexiest costumes of 2012. Did you feel your costume was really a national costume? CM: Yes and no. This is a sensitive subject for me because I haven’t said much about it. Pirates are a part of Bahamian history. Pirates of the Caribbean is a major movie filmed in the Bahamas. So yes. But many people don’t know how I ended up in that costume. PJ: So that wasn’t the costume you prepared to take with you? CM: Um No. A Bahamian designer was chosen to design the costume months before Miss Universe. Less than two weeks before I left he said he couldn’t finish it in time so MBO was forced to find something for me to wear at the last minute. Everyone wants to complain that Miss Bahamas didn’t wear clothes by Bahamian designers or a costume made by a Bahamian, but when it comes time to providing those items people don’t live up to their promises and their commitments. It was a struggle to find stores and designers to provide a wardrobe for me. Thank God for sponsors like Coles of Nassau, The Luggage Store, Nassau Gals and Escape Boutique at Atlantis who came through for me. Most of my rehearsal wardrobe along with my accessories and costume were store-bought.
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
My pirate costume was shipped to Nassau and embellished by a local Junkanoo group. I had to work with what was provided. I was really hurt and disappointed as wardrobe was a major challenge. The contestants had 2 to 3 changes a day plus it was 20-30 degrees outside. That’s December in Las Vegas. PJ: That’s horrible. As a former Miss Bahamas 1st runner up myself, I can totally imagine how you must have felt getting all this press coverage in Las Vegas but worried about whether you had enough wardrobe to last you through the 3 weeks of rehearsals and appearances. CM: It was stressful. It was cold in Las Vegas, and being 20yrs old there were several contestants that were under age and unable to go to the nightclubs where cocktail receptions and dinners were held. Wardrobe was definitely a challenge. I would hope more corporate sponsors understand that a representative at Miss Universe getting all that international press is a prime opportunity to showcase their brand. Its a small investment considering the return is an audience of over 1 million people who saw my photos and videos over the 3 weeks of the Miss Universe competition. PJ: After closing out NBC’s commercial and getting fans from all over the world praising you were you shocked when they didn’t call your name for the Top 16? CM: I went into it believing that this year The Bahamas will make it. This year I could be the one, but it’s subjective. This year there were no women of color in the Top 16 so clearly that isn’t what they were looking for in 2013. I have to respect it and be grateful for the opportunity. Everything happens for a reason. At most rehearsals we weren’t allowed to have our phones so I wasn’t on the internet following all of the PR. That was a blessing in itself. I think I did well. I tried my best. I’m so grateful for all of the support from fans and family. PJ: So what’s next? CM: Well I’m back in school at the College of the Bahamas pursuing my pre-med studies. I am finishing out my reign hoping to do a lot more community service, school appearances and work with juvenile diabetes awareness. I want to do a lot more modeling and take that aspect of my career to another level. I am really open to shooting with as many photographers as I can to have a stellar portfolio to present to agencies after a new 86
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Miss Universe Bahamas is crowned. I want to enjoy the rest of my reign and see what opportunities God has in store for me. It was great sitting down with Celeste. In her Vlogs and on social media she always encourages fans to #followthecrown. I hope and pray that Miss Universe Bahamas is the first of many golden opportunities for her. You can #followthecrown to keep updated with Celeste on her website at www. celestem242.com, on Facebook at www. facebook.com/celestem242, on Twitter or Instagram @celestem242 or find her on Google+. She is a stellar student aspiring to become a pediatrician one day while pursuing a career on the runways of Europe, but also Celeste is a shining example of beauty from the inside out truly exemplifying what the legacy of Miss Bahamas is supposed to be all about. Poise, grace, humility, intelligence and an ambassador representing the women of our country proudly. #Followthecrown? Indeed I shall. **About the author** PJ Douglas Sands is an Events & Branding Strategist with The DS3 Group www. theds3group.com and A Design For Destiny Luxury Events www.design4destiny.com. She has worked with celebrity clients like Tyrese Gibson, BeBe Winans, R. Kelly, Keri Hilson, Ines Rivero, Lenny Kravitz and Colin Cowie, and her work has been featured in publications like Town & Country Magazine, Vanity Fair and Weddings of Lifetime. PJ is a regular contributor on topics of branding, business development and music at www. diradiocast.com. To build your corporate brand or create your special event, you can Find “The DS3 Group” on LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+ or Instagram through their website at www.theds3group.com or follow them on Twitter @theDS3group.
WATCH THE BONUS VIDEO
CHECK OUT THIS COOL VIDEO OF CELESTE ON SET. AN INSIDE LOOK INTO WHAT A TYPICAL PHOTO-SHOOT IS LIKE AND WHAT GOES INTO THE MAKING OF A QUEEN.
CELESTE MARSHALL
FASHION . ART . ENTERTAINMENT. LIFESTYLE
#THEBAY2013