Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 1
2 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Features 06 Taking it OFF LIMITS with Sarah Peter
10 Youth Explosion 2014 Performer Profiles 18
Kerwin Keeps it real with LHCSS
BUSINESS 16 Take a Blue Waters Break!!!. 22 The Tourism Enhancement Fund
ENTERTAINMENT 04
Youth Explosion 2014 Review
14 Do you think I’m a good person? 17
Top recommended tracks
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 3
EDITORIAL WITH SNARD ALEXANDER
‘You have to love it’ With the ever growing world we live in today it is difficult to find time to sit and enjoy the finer things that life has to offer. This is why it is so important that we find out our passion. Passion is the most important part of who we are and can define whether we succeed or fail. If you haven’t found what your love is then you look at a drab lifestyle. Find out what can you offer to this world that can change a life. And do you love it? Search yourself and find out what is it that you enjoy so much that you dont need to be paid. When you find that answer then you may just make a living out of it. Ask yourself this, are you doing that thing now? Don’t let people steal your passion from you or talk you down because the day you do, you just committed spiritual suicide. You can change the world by being you.
EDITORS JOY SAMUEL SNARD ALEXANDER
PROJECT MANAGERS HIERLAND PETER KENDALL BARTHELMY
PHOTOGRAPHERS
KAREEM STANLEY JONATHAN PHILIP
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ANIMATION ROSS DANIEL MAKEUP ARTIST AMY FLORIUS
CONTRIBUTORS OSBAND SMALL BILL MORTLEY SPECIAL THANKS KENTILLIA LOUIS - CAMDU SARAH PETER BLUE WATERS ST.LUCIA
4 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
YOUTH EXPLOSION 2014
AT THE DEREK WALCOTT SQUARE
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 5
6 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 7
LETS GO OFFLIMITS WITH ME SARAH PETER EVERY MONDAY AT 8PM ON HTS
8 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
taking it offlimits off limts monday nights at 8pm
Are there really any serious cases of male domesticabuse in St Lucia? Are women sexually liberated and is religion causing more harm than good? The hit television show OFF LIMITS will explore these as well as other controversial issues. The compiling show returned for a second season on Monday May 19th and airs every Monday at 8pm. The production is the brain child of TV personality Sarah Peter and is produced and edited by her company SP Productions along with the assistance of Videographer Steve Gabriel. Sarah who is a graduate of Cardiff University, Wales, UK, describes the television show as a unique, in-depth program which takes an unprecedented dimension into important social issues. The former United Nations Fellow adds the initiative explores topics which are seemingly “off limits”, issues which are not generally brought into the main stream media. Specifically the show takes a look into social issues, human rights concerns, education and the youth. The concise, in-depth 30 minute program will address unorthodox concerns, provide in-depth discussion on these matters and demystify some of the anathema surrounding these issues.
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 9
The first season of the show which aired in September 2013 was a major hit with members of the public. Some of the topics exploredin season one included child sexual abuse, child prostitution and the complex issue of women and hair extensions. The initiative also explored the stereotype of whether women hate each other as well as taboo concerns surrounding education and sexuality. This season of OFF LIMITS promises to be more controversialand interesting than ever before. The show also features a segment entitled Youth Talk, as the name indicates; this platform provides young people with an opportunity to add their voice to issues which matter to them. The segment also highlights the achievements of young people on the island. Season Two of Youth Talk will feature young successful university graduates, persons who have contributed positively to the island’s hospitality industry, entrepreneurs and youngsters who have persevered despite the obstacles. The initiative would not have been possible without the assistance of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, FICS Limited as well as all the other sponsors who supported the project. Be sure to tune in Mondays at 8pm for OFFLIMITS on HTS.
10 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
AJAUNIE SCOTT
TRISTA VASQUEZ
2.
3.
yOUTH EXPLOSION PERFORMER PROFILES
Shanne Nia Andreuille James
1.
19 year old Shanne Nia Andreuille James has been moulding her talent from the age of seven with the guidance of her aunt Deanna Clarke. Shanne has obtained vocal training from renowned opera singer; Blaise Claudio Pascal and became a part of the Blaise Pascal Project, a small group of singers trained by Blaise Pascal himself. This group performed at the Chamber
of Commerce Awards in 2012. Aside from this performance, Shanne has also performed as a soloist at the Ms. Saint Lucia World Pageant and the Chamber of Commerce Awards in 2014. Shanne attended the Gordon & Walcott Memorial Methodist School, St. Joseph’s Convent Secondary School and then furthered her studies at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (DASGS) she is currently employed as a teller. She dedicates her time to furthering and developing her talent and consequently grasps as many opportunities presented, to use her talent as she possibly can. Shanne’s intention is to
1.
solidify the notion of St. Lucia being on the map. In other words she would like to be a representation of the versatility that her island possesses. “I aspire to utilize my talent for the amelioration of our culture to assist with community outreach programs and thirdly, to pave the way as well as create an awareness/avenue for potential artistes like myself.”
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 11
2.
A talented teenager passionate about performing arts. He attended the South Borought Primary School and Greater Portmore high
5.
Mayah started dancing at the age of 5 and danced for 7 years. When she was 7 she discovered that she could sing and started singing at many different school events at the Ave Maria
school in Jamaica and then the Gros Islet
Girl`s School. At the age of 11 (in 2008) she won
Secondary school and Corinth Secondary school. Being raised by his
the National Junior Calypso competition and it is from there her musi-
mother who is also a singer and performer Ajaunie takes music and
cal journey took off. She got a scholarship at the St. Lucia’s school
performing very seriously. With the help and support of his mother
of music and this is where she learnt how to play bass guitar, guitar,
he has worked hard on the development of his talent and from a very
keyboard and a bit on drums. She spent four years there and during
tender age he has been performing. Ajaunie is also involved in danc-
that time she participated in several concerts at the school of music
ing, acting, choreography and spoken word.
and at St. Joseph`s Convent Secondary School where she attended.
The stage name ‘Young breezy’ originated from the nick name of Chris
Mayah currently attends the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College.
brown because people called him mini Chris brown when he per-
She participated in the annual Youth Fest in 2013 as well as sang at
formed as a child. “Chris Brown is my musical icon and he inspires me “
the 2013 St. Joseph`s Convent`s annual Princess Pageant. I plan on representing my country worldwide. I want to use my talents to help the poor and the less fortunate. Mayah would like to use her talents
3.
The Seventeen year old Trista Dominique
to open up opportunities for other persons like herself so that they
Vasquez is a past student of the Winfer Gardens
too can use their talents and follow their dreams. She wants to be an
Primary and North Ruimveldt Secondary
inspiration to the youth and a Youth Ambassador. She would also like
Schools back in her homeland Guyana. She
to use her talents to open more avenues where persons can showcase
is a singer, musician and song writer though
their talents and discover their hidden talents as well.
not limited to those fields. She is also a budding dancer, actress and playwright. However she is mainly exposed to the avenue of singing gospel music at her church and enjoys doing it . She loves her motivators be it fans, audiences, friends and especially family members.
NEVIN “MIGHTY” ALEXANDER
She strives to hone her talents as best as she can and puts her all into it. She wants to touch people with her music especially so that they understand where it is coming from and how it connects to her and by extension them. Trista plans to use her talents to contribute to St. Lucia in a way which can help churches and orphanages and to give to the needy.
4.
20year old Nevin “Mighty” Alexander is a budding singer, song writer, performer and producer from the tender age of 12 years old. His work focuses heavily on St. Lucia`s culture and his goal is to keep the rich culture and heritage alive through his work though not
limited only to it. He is a past student of the Derniere Riviere Combined School, Clendon Memorial Secondary School and is currently pursuing studies at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College—Division of Continuing Education. He has performed but at Carnival Events in 2013 and is also known for his original rendition entitled “Couteau”.
MAYAH LEONCE
5.
4.
12 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
NEW STARS
7. young boss records
9. TWISTED
6.
Originating from Canaries, St. Lucia, Twisted was founded by Delanie Louis in 2009. This group started with a few members who were all ready and willing to do something different. All the members are active figures in their community, being involved in groups like; the board of the Carnival Committee, the Youth and Sports Council, the Netball and Football team,
the Big Brother/Big Sister program and more. Their goal is to use theatre arts to encourage the youth in a positive way. This group has grown since its inception to now 15 members with students of the Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School, Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary School and the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College. Their ages range from four years to twenty-four years. Their theme: “DANCE - THE HIDDEN LANGUAGE OF THE SOUL”. Inspired by the rhythmic body movements
6.
of the dancers to the music. Twisted has performed different choreographed pieces at various events including the Youth feast dance competition (2013), Jete dance competition (2014), The Saint Lucia Independence show (2014) Youth talk through arts initiative (2012), Youth Jam (2013), Headphunk and a flash mob at the Castries Market. They are currently the reigning champions of the 1st annual Youth Fest Dance Competition and semi-finalist at the Jete dance competition.
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 13
Young Boss Records comprises of two singers, Ricky “Zuky” Martial
7.
and Marlon “Kicks Off” George and a Musical Producer, Terrol Micheal NEW STARS is a group of young talented
Norville. They plan to use their talent to enhance the music industry
individuals, founded by Mr. Marshall Degazon
and to create variety in St. Lucia. They would like to convey a message
whose aim was to create an avenue for young
to the youth of St. Lucia that there are other ways to express them-
people to use their talents on a bigger stage
selves other than violence. They also want the St. Lucians to know
in Saint Lucia.
that, like Jamaica for example, St. Lucia has budding artistes as well
The group specializes in dance as it is a common talent among the
and with music everyone can come together.
members however they are not limited to this as most of their member are skilled in other art forms namely acting, singing, choreography, visual arts, poetry, spoken word and graphic designs. New Stars is in no way new to the performance arena, they have performed at the; National Youth Awards (2012 and 2013), Jazz events,
EJAZ ‘OCEAN” FRANCIS
Nina Compton Concert, Jete Dance competition and Youth Explosion. This group has broadened their knowledge to a variety of dance styles but specialize in Hip- Hop and Dancehall and has been noted for their creativity and novelty with every performance. At present New Stars has no rehearsal space and so they use public locations like the Derek Walcott Square when the gates are open and Serenity Park. With those challenges the group still manages to progress and entertain their audience. “Because of the love we all share for dance and each other we make magic.” The aim of this group is to travel the world showcasing their talent and representing their country.
8.
Ocean is a talented 18 year old poet. He attended the Morne Du Don Primary school, Entrepot Secondary School and the Nation Skills Development Centre (N.S.D.C) also a baptized member of the Seventh Day
Adventist church for five years. Ejaz began his journey with poetry in 2012 during his last days of school when he fell in love with poetry performances which he had seen on the television. It was then that he realised then that he had a bit of talent and liking for the craft. The name ‘Ocean’ , Ejaz defines as vast, deep with meaning and filled with mystery which he believes represents himself perfectly. Ejaz ‘Ocean’ Francis would like to contribute to Saint Lucia by showing the world that Saint Lucia has talent and by extension increase avenues for tourism and poets like himself.
9.
This vibrant group is made up of three young men who are currently unemployed but very talented. They seek to express their talent by singing. Most of the songs come from life experiences and are based on life experiences. They have the love for music and are
trying their best to pursue it in the best way possible and in the best way to make them successful. They would like St. Lucians to recognise them as one of those groups doing music for fame but as one of those that are really trying to change music in St. Lucia for the better.
8.
14 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
SURVIVOR’S DANCE TROOP
10. LABORIE BOYS’ & GIRLS’ CHOIR
10.
From the community of Grand Ravin, Dennery emerges the Survivors Dance Troop lead by Ms. Sophire Edwyn. They arose from participation in a cheerleading competition where their talent was realized having placed third in the competition. The group was officially started
in May 2013 and are guided by a set of rules and regulations which demand acceptable academics from all members of the group, the need to be respectful within and outside the troop because they are aware of the necessity of education and respect in everything in society and also because they hold their group to such a standard which commands this from all members. Survivors Dance Troop consists mostly of school children and they are all from the same community. Their goal is to show that when young people come together for a positive purpose they can do great things and to promote unity amongst the youth and community. Through Survivors the community has come together so much so that they have an aerobics class with members of the community outside of the troop. Survivors Dance Troop is a part of a larger organization named the Survivors Sports club which is reflected in their name. They are currently making plans to implement Drama into their arsenal of talents training. Survivors has graced the stage many times in their short existence namely the Mabouya Awards Ceremony 2014 and the Methodist School Fund Raiser 2013.
11.
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 15
11.
Laborie R.C Girls’ choir Laborie Girls’ Choir comprises of a group of talented students of the Laborie R.C Girls’ Primary school. The girls’ ages range from
Osband Small St. Mary's College Student
7 – 12years, they are all avid learners with a love for singing. The students are all active members of their community participating in activities like dancing, swimming and arts and crafts.
Laborie R.C Boys’ Choir Laborie Boys’ Choir, this choir boasts it success having placed in the top three positions in the National Choir Competition for the four years consecutively and winning in 2013. The boys’ ages range from 7-12 years. This choir has had experience performing and they strive for a high standard of excellence.
12.
“Unity Must Prevail Always!”19 year old Brendon “UMPA” Charlery is a highly passionate and enthusiastic artiste with a flamboyant personality. Having hit the performing arena
from a tender age, UMPA has performed quite a bit. His journey began by singing karaoke for leisure until his potential was realized and he was encouraged to pursue and hone his talent. UMPA graduated from the Deniere Riviere Combine Primary School and the Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School and now leads a performing crew named “Back Ah Yard Crew” . He is “versatile and full of style” in the field of music, with his talents ranging from singer, English and St. Lucia Creole song writer to composer and producer. This versatility is what gives UMPA the confidence and freedom to perform only original music though he is not limited to it. His latest performance was in the island of Martinique where he performed at the 2014 Martinique River Bash. He has also twice graced the stage of the annual Youth Fest in 2011 and 2012, as well as the stage of Piton Soca Stars in 2011. UMPA wishes to promote the idea that in Creative Industry, “versatility is key” and to speak to the youth through his positive lyrics in his work.
BRENDON CHARLERY
12.
Do you think I’m a good person? Cause I don’t feel that way. People are just fooled by the nice words I say. The manners I show they just following the role I play But am I really? Hmm may not or may. Cause you see people around think that they really know me. Sigh sadly they can only trust me as far as they can through me. Or can they trust me, because you never know. It all depends on the emotions I decide to show. So I guess I’m a shape shifter master of the mixed signals. Yup that’s right you’re unsure, like a sandy thinker. Hmm guess my words betray you more than my looks and hmm guess you can’t judge by the cover when you talking about books But in any case yall think that I’m a nice guy right? I mean just another young man taking life light. I mean at least that’s what you can say by sight. So hey, hey, hey don’t get me wrong I’m saying you’re probably right. But if you are wrong, then I guess you’re getting me right, but if you’re getting confused then ha I’m sorry but you judge by sight.
16 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 17
18 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 19
If I fail to succeed then success is my failure, I was born a winner
20 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 21
KERWIN DU BOIS KERWIN KEEPS IT REAL WITH LHCSS HAVING THAT WINNER MENTALITY Success is often something we strive for in life. Many people claim to have a formula for it while others fight to find a formula that works for them. However, following the example of well-known artist Kerwin Du Bois, we can see that to achieve success requires as much mental effort as physical. Kerwin has what I’d describe as a winner mentality. He has said that he “was born a winner”. How many of us can say something like that and have the life that reflects it? It takes confidence to make such a powerful statement but it is not enough just to state it. Trinidad-born as many of you know, Kerwin Du Bois took part in his first singing competition back in primary school. Back then he focused his singing on Calypso, taking part in the very first Junior Calypso Monarch competition and taking home the crown in the second year. From there he continued striving towards success refusing to accept failure. Still young but with success on his mind, he obtained the Young Kings title, reached the Big Yard for National Calypso Monarch and represented Trinidad at the Calypso Youth Exchange Programme. He later won the title of UK Calypso Monarch and now as a singer, songwriter, producer and wellknown performer, he has truly earned the right to be considered an Artist in all respects. Clearly it is not enough to simply wish to achieve greatness, you must truly know you can and then put in the hard work in order to do it. Kerwin Du Bois has also been very dynamic in striving for success. He has not limited himself to only singing Calypso, as you would know. He has branched off into the field of Soca as well. From this leap, he has created songs that label him as more than just an Artist. Kerwin, through his music, has represented himself as a “Bachanalist” and as “Soca” itself, displaying his own identity in the music he sings. It takes a lot of confidence to identify yourself by the thing you love but that just goes back to the mentality one needs in order to succeed. The passion it takes to consider yourself a winner in life is not as little as saying you like to do something. Quoted many times for his line “If I fail to succeed then success is my failure, I was born a winner,”Kerwin Du Bois truly lives out that winner mentality of his and therefore serves as a strong role model for many young artists and any young person who has a dream they wish to achieve. Kerwin`s fans can be found across the globe, all exemplifying the passion he has. Our mind is a powerful thing. Believe that you are a winner and you very well could be one. Of course it is not enough just to think it, but no one can get anywhere from constantly psyching themselves out. As we continue to sing Kerwin Du Bois` songs and watch him become more and more amazing in his career, I hope we can all capture even a little bit of that winner mentality.
22 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Sapphire
Tourism Enhancement Fund The Tourism Enhancement Fund has been created to allow the SLHTA to play an integral part in the sustainable development of our destination. Through the Tourism Enhancement Fund, the SLHTA will be able to direct development efforts where they are most needed. By collecting a small voluntary fee from our visitors, the SLHTA will be able to implement and finance projects specific to ensuring that our island is enjoyable for visitors and residents alike, including the beautification of specific areas of our island. The SLHTA, through The Tourism Enhancement Fund, will be able to erect much improved road signage across the island, finance an important study on sustainability of our industry, enter into a private-public partnership to improve our water management, aid in the reconstruction of the Rainforest Trails and many other product development projects. There also will be strong focus on education and hands-on training initiatives for our young people to give them a better chance of finding employment in our industry. SLHTA would like to spearhead programs for our work force to achieve higher standards to be able to strengthen our island’s presence in an ever more competitive international tourism marketplace. This private sector initiative is welcomed by the Government of Saint Lucia in light of the many challenges we are facing as a country. Together, we recognize the importance of tourism to the livelihood of Saint Lucia’s future generations. Resort guests and all other island visitors are asked to proudly be part of this exciting initiative and donate US$2 for each night of their stay at Resorts here in Saint Lucia which will go entirely towards our Tourism Enhancement Fund. Day visitors may contribute as well. In anticipation of the support of our stay over and day visitors, the SLHTA thanks everyone for their contribution as we continue to make Saint Lucia an even better place for us all.
Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com • 23
Kerwin Dubois’ trip to the Leon Hess Secondary
24 • Issue #8 • www.thwassup.com
Join Us Online For Even More Great Recipes & Kitchen Tips.
www.website.com Pure Simplicity: 55 Station Street, Nanaimo, BC, Canada 555.555.5555 email@address.com www.website.com