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THAT'S WASSUP ONLINE YOUTH MAGAZINE CASTRIES, ST. LUCIA, WEST-INDIES 1-(758)-485-2231 / (758)-717-6603 THWASSUP@GMAIL.COM WWW.THWASSUP.COM
EDITORS
JOY SAMUEL SNARD ALEXANDER
PROJECT MANAGERS HIERLAND PETER KENDALL BARTHELMY
PHOTOGRAPHERS KAREEM STANLEY JONATHAN PHILLIP SHERLAN GITTENS
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ANIMATION
ROSS DANIEL
MAKEUP ARTIST AMY FLORIUS
SPECIAL THANKS
KENTILLIA LOUIS - CAMDU SARAH PETER BANK OF ST.LUCIA
MISSON STATEMENT To be a unique youth online magazine by optimizing on the growing dependence on technology, amongst the youth, as a means of reaching out and addressing serious social issues, while highlighting the positive side of youth endeavors in Saint Lucia.
Editorial By Hierland Peter
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We're On One!!!
Saches. leepless nights, empty bellies, dry throats and many headThis is how it was for the team at That's Wassup Maga-
zine during the start-up of the project. The idea came from our school days at Sir Arthur Lewis, where we yearned to provide an avenue where students could express their selves through photography, music, graphic design, drama and visual arts. Upon our graduation from the college we decided to make the idea a reality. From doing our very first interview to launch the magazine, we knew that students participating in this project would benefit. However like all success stories, we faced many challenges; from having difficulties getting financial assistance to losing valuable team members. Nonetheless, we were able to endure and now we are ‘That's Wassup Magazine’. We have been able to get five schools to participate in the project as well as get endorsement from the theatre arts department of C.A.M.D.U. and Rise St.Lucia. Therefore, That's Wassup Magazine is seen by the Ministry of Education and an established nonprofit organization in St. Lucia, as a positive and educational initiative. So what motivates us to continue you ask? The answer is you, our readers. We are able to positively influence your lives on a per issue basis and this is more than enough of a reason to ensure this project continues and gets bigger. So what advice do we have for you? Stay in school, that's where the most brilliant ideas come from. We are still going strong one year later and hope to see many more years. My name is Hierland Peter, your Project manager and CEO. Thank you for all your support.
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Ron Alexis
St. Mary's College Student
Sapphire The regret that's her worse Is the birth of the best Gift god could give to her Her blessing from heaven Was god sending her a message A reason to wake up every day A reason to smile-when he smiles she smiles Even if that smile is only for a while Before she snaps back to reality Where she's just a casualty A statistic in the world He gave her a reason to live A reason to give-her all,a reason to try She wakes up every morning just to stare at those bills Then she falls to the floor, lights it to get those thrills Until she's so gone she looks at the mirror with a gun in her palm Then in the reflection in the mirror she sees the bruises on her arm The self-conflicted pain Pill after pill, the true scars remain She rests her head on her pillow cause she knows she can't refrain Close her eyes to cry for she knows she is to wake up tomorrow to do it all again...
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 2014 Inter Secondary Schools Sports
2014 Recap
8 Little by Little One Walks Far
If you were asked to give examples of times when other
people kept you down or acted like your own personal haters,
11 MUSIC
Top 9 recommended
songs for March, 2014
12 Mr. Rohan Lubon A Hulk of a Principal
16 Hessplosion Review 2014
Held at the National Cultural Centre
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Swag & Slackness Presents
2014 Inter-secondary School
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Little by Little
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On walks far By Joy Samuel If you were asked to give examples of times when other people kept you down or acted like your own personal haters, I am sure it wouldn’t take you very long to come up with a lengthy list. Though often times we are
the ones who pose the greatest challenge to ourselves. Our own fear, nerves and dread of embarrassment can be our greatest challenge keeping us from attaining greatness. I had the pleasure of chatting with Christine Charlemagne who is well on her way to achieving greatness. As young people, many of you would probably like to know how one goes about achieving greatness. Well, for some people, this journey starts from very young.
Chrycee, as she is much better known as, was obsessed with singing as a child. Holding onto the remote control, her “mic” in hand, she would let her vocals flow into the mirror, TV or even the shower. As a teenager, she stepped forth in front of a broader audience and allowed the congregation at church to behold her talent. Music has always been such a strong part of Chrycee’s life that it motivated her to take the next step. 5-6 years ago, Chrycee brought her musical passion to the national level by releasing her first single. Last August, she launched her own independent business, Chrycee Musique. In December she did her first off-island performance in French-Guiana together with a very talented band she managed to pull together. Now, she looks forward to heading to Tobago to perform for Tobago Jazz. But not just perform though. She is going to be opening the stage for Keisha Cole and Earth, Wind and Fire among other people. Needless to say, Chrycee is paving the way for herself, in order to attain greatness. This path, like many other paths that seem to lead to where you need to get, is not a smooth one for her though. Chrycee notes that she has faced many challenges but, her sense of determination is one ethic that radiates from her. Determination is important when aiming for greatness. Chrycee passionately points out that “if the door closes she is going to scale the wall, climb, open the window, find a back door” because “when she sets her mind to something, it’s going to happen.” This level of determination, combined with perseverance is what Chrycee lives by and is the reason we wanted to share her story with you. Backed by a support system made up of her close friends, Chrycee has identified that challenges don’t always come from other people. As individuals, it is difficult to overcome the challenges others throw at us and sometimes we feel the need to give up. In times like these Chrycee gives praises to her friends and family for pushing her on. In taking the step towards bringing her passion for music to the stage, Chrycee notes that it was at first difficult for her. Nerves and fear, kept her self-critical and sometimes she felt she couldn’t do it. In our minds we could sometimes be our own enemies as Chrycee points out. But in those times, she advises us to use this to your advantage and she always goes back to her determination. Even when you are being self-critical you cannot let your own self keep you from accomplishing the things you wish to attain or the places you wish to get to. Instead use that critique of yourself to improve on your weaknesses and challenge yourself to be better. Chrycee is a firm believer in the “beauty of dreams”. To her, doing something that makes you happy, that you can strive to, is very important. Everyone has some kind of dream that they would like to see fulfilled, but many of us do not know how to take that step from a simple dream, to a reality. According to Chrycee, this requires 4 major steps so be ready to take notes.
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1. elieve in yourself- I am sure you have heard this many times, but do you actually do it? It is not enough to say it. You actually need to have the confidence to see it through. This point alone builds your determination and will be the first motivation to achieving your dreams. 2. Work hard- Nothing in life comes easy or is handed to you without effort. If you sit around complaining and expecting jobs and paths to open up, you may be sitting forever. Put some effort in and develop your skills. 3. Research- We may not like to do it at school, and we may not fully understand the importance of it, but it is a crucial step. Don’t assume you know the answers. If you have a specific goal, study others who have also strived and attained that goal. Knowledge is key. 4. Be dedicated- This goes back to determination and perseverance. Don’t do things half-way, don’t give up and “go for it” according to Chrycee. “Little by little one walks far.” Big dreams cannot be accomplished in a day. Don’t try to accomplish the whole thing at once. Chrycee advises that we break things down and try to attain our dreams in increments. If you start at point A and work your way to point B then point C, little by little, Chrycee notes that soon enough, before you realize, you will already be at point T and from them it’s just a little way to go again. So, as a full-time employee paying her way and going to school full-time at UWI, Chrycee is showing us what it really means to work hard to move closer and closer to accomplishing your dreams and she is definitely getting closer to achieving her own goals as a singer. She is currently working hand in hand with a new company call Bowtie Life Entertainment who is excellently assisting her with administration as she sets up for Tobago Jazz. So look out for great things as Chrycee opens the stage at Tobago Jazz this year, and gives us a direct look at real life determination, perseverance and also a clear image of the ‘beauty of dreams”.
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Mr. Rohan Lubon
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A Hulk of a Principal
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oung, strong, talented, outgoing and down to earth, not really the definition most people would have of their Secondary School Principal. Maybe dull, boring and doesn't engage in many social or recreational activities would be a better fit. However, towards Mr. Rohan Lubon, principal of the Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School, where green paints the walls and uniforms, and sports is as important as the dozens of subjects taught, this stereotypical perception does not apply. Mr. Lubon's unconventional methods in motivating students has proven to critics that sometimes being soft or "cool" with students can have a positive impact on their lives. Mainly known for his excellent sporting and physical skills, but not so much for his dedication to strength, That's Wassup Magazine has given the title a "Hulk of a Principal" to Mr. Rohan Lubon. We were given the opportunity to ask Mr. Lubon a few questions and this is what he had to say: 1). Tell me some brief information about yourself. Name: Rohan Lubon from CDC, Central Castries..., family roots in Canaries Academic history: St. Aloysius R.C. Boys, S.M.C. S.A.L.C.C (D.A.S.G.S.) BSc Management (U.W.I. Cave Hill Campus, Barbados) Other: FIFA Level 1 Certified Coach (football) and FIBA Level 1 Certified Coach (basketball), National basketball referee Some Achievements: Youth of the Year 2007, National Youth Footballer, SMC Sportsman of the year and footballer of the year, SMC three time calypso king, Second-runner up Junior Calypso Monarch Competition, Past member of Central Castries Youth and Sports Council Passion: Sports and Physical fitness, photography, music, carnival Hobbies: football, dominoes, photography, outdoor exploration 2) Have you always wanted to go into teaching? No, it was just another option in the job hunting process upon returning from U.W.I. I always wanted to work with a successful private company or run my own business enterprise. I was called into the profession as soon as Mr. Rupert Ellis (My first supervisor and past principal of the school) heard that I had returned from U.W.I. and was in search of a job. 3) How long have you been teaching? Describe the life of a typical teacher in St. Lucia. I have been in the education sector from October 1995 upon returning from U.W.I. I taught Social Studies, Mathematics and Physical Education for 11 years up until 1996. Teaching is a profession that requires much patience and compassion. I strongly believe that many persons do not understand or fully appreciate the work rate of a typical teacher who honestly gives of his/her best to professionally and adequately perform his/her duties. Teaching is a very taxing profession to the point where persons get so consumed in the profession that it becomes difficult to have a normal social life. Many believe that teachers have the most vacation but this belief is very inaccurate. I say so because many teachers spend much of their time before and after school, and even on ‘vacation’ days to attend to school matters and to assist their students. Teachers are also required from time to time to attend functions or perform duties during their vacation time which relates to school and education. Nevertheless, teaching can be a very interesting job especially when persons are passionate about the success of students and becoming involved in extra-curricular activities. It is up to the teachers to make the best of the opportunities given to them to nurture young individuals and at the same time to take the opportunity to develop themselves physically, mentally and emotionally. 4) How long have you been the principal at the Leon Hess Comprehensive School?
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4) ow long have you been the principal at the Leon Hess Comprehensive School? I was recommended by Mr. Rupert Ellis (Immediate Past Principal) to the Ministry of Education to Act as Principal from September 2006. I was appointed permanently in January 2008 and so I have been operating in the capacity of principal for seven and a half years. 5) How did students and teachers respond to you being selected as the new principal? Although I was relatively young at the time (youngest secondary school principal on island and possibly the Eastern Caribbean), they all accepted me, especially a few senior teachers who I had confided in before fully accepting the position. The staff and students believed that it was in the school’s best interest to have a head who was familiar with the school’s policies, procedures and culture. 6). During your early tenure as principal, did you ever think about resigning? No, I have never thought of resigning as I have always welcomed challenges and also enjoyed my profession. 7). What helped you in overcoming challenges you faced as being a young principal? Prayer, self-confidence and determination to accomplish my goals, support from family and friends and motivation from staff and students. I also confided in Mr. Rupert Ellis (Past Principal) and Mr. Mc. Orville Combie (Past Vice Principal) along with a few other experienced principals and senior persons who were at my disposable to advise me accordingly. 8) What advice do you have for young professionals who are faced with the challenges you were able to overcome? I strongly believed in one quote: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. I believe that it is all about perseverance and self-belief. Young Professionals must make it their duty to be in the company of persons who can uplift them and support them in one way or another, and not allow negative criticism to dampen their spirits. They must bear in mind also that facing challenges are inevitable and are a part of life which only makes them stronger mentally, physically and spiritually. 9) What changes would you like to see at the Leon Hess Comprehensive (also with students) and with the education system in St. Lucia? There are many changes which I would like to see especially with regard to the education system in St. Lucia. However, regarding the school, the main change is to ensure that the Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School becomes a first choice school not just for some but for most parents and students through its nurturing and ongoing improvement in the quality of education provided. With regard to the education system, more attention must be given to those under-achievers and more opportunities must be provided for persons to explore their inert talents. I am an advocate for physical education and sports and I would like persons in authority to ensure that the curriculum and organization of physical education and sports be attended to in a more professional manner. I also believe that the ideas and policies of the National Principals’ Association and The National Teacher Union be given a lot more consideration by the Ministry of Education. 10) What perceptions would you like to change about the youth in St. Lucia? I believe that many young persons do not see the value of a secondary education until after they have departed Secondary School and so I would like them to make the most of the opportunities at hand while at secondary school. Also, involving in risky (illegal) behaviour to earn quick cash can be detrimental to their success. The youth must also show much more appreciation for the arts and sports as these are aids for wholesome development and worship less their technological gadgets (especially when they are being used for all the wrong reasons).
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11) o you think that your approach with students have a more positive impact versus an autocratic leadership style? I do not believe in an Autocratic Leadership Style to run a school. It is important however to get everyone on board in playing their part to make this institution the best it can be. Staff and students alike do contribute to decision making and provide ideas to ensure that the school continues to excel. Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary is like a family where we all look out for each other. I see myself as a ‘down to earth’ and approachable individual who is easy to interact with. I also enjoy interacting with students on a daily basis and frequently make it my duty to be a part of the activities that are organized for both staff and students. Nevertheless, instilling discipline throughout is the pillar of success and this is what provides a more conducive environment for learning. Also, we at Leon Hess Comprehensive believe in utilizing more positive than negative re-enforcement to improve performance and behaviour. 12) What does the future hold for you? I really can’t say as I leave it in God’s hands. I do love the education field but my ultimate passion is to work directly in the field of Sports. As a result, I intend to pursue a Masters Degree in Sports Administration to facilitate my Level One Coaching Certificates in Football and Basketball. I would like to make a more meaningful contribution in the area of Sports Development in St. Lucia, preferably working with the youth. I was raised in a community where sporting activities was what kept us out of trouble and provided opportunities for us youth to work together and build our self-esteem. And so, from an early age, I have grown to have a passion for Sporting Activities, Health and Fitness.
Sapphire
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Hessplosion 2014 Review
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