“I was just looking at my country Jamaica and thought how beautiful it is but the social and economical climate wasn’t so good. So I just put my thoughts in a song.”
Contents Issue 25|November 2013
6 Editor’s Note 8 Masthead 45 Creative Director’s Note FEATURES 8 The Gift of Beauty Holiday Shopping Guide 11 Money Matters: Timeshares & Vacation Plans 14 Love, Sex, Reggae & Gyptian
19 About the Album: Love, Sex & Reggae 20 Health: Have Your Cake & Eat It Too 23 Asafa Powell 2014 Calendar 26 Pakistani Pop Star: Anna Khalid 28 Lights, Camera, Fashion
30 LaPoshe 34 Donovan DePass 36 drennaLUNA 38 Island Style: Resort 40 Island Style: Beaches 43 USVI: Online Video Stories Issue 25| November 2013 3
Editor’s Note RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME I am one of those people who strongly believe that everything happens for a reason–that things don’t just happen by chance. Our steps are so carefully ordained by God that even the smallest encounter means something. Here are two examples. On October 23, 2013, I was in my office hovered over my laptop typing away when my thought process was interrupted. Standing before me was Vera Moore of Vera Moore Cosmetics. My assistant poked her head in to introduce Vera, whom I had never met before but is somewhat familiar with her cosmetics line carried by Duane Reade. At about 5’2” she is charming and graceful and full of life. Her face lit up as she told me about her company – her passion and pride was just so intoxicating. Before I knew it I was on her website and we were discussing a feature in the Magazine, among other things. Just when I thought chance encounters were just that, Vera popped back in and said, “Hey are you guys having a holiday party and if so, how about we do one together?” What?? This was not happening. Really?? My tongue loosened up in time for me to say “Oh my gosh yes of course, that would be great.” And before I knew it we were on the phone planning a combined holiday soiree. Right place, right time. . . you better believe it. But I am not giving the credit to “chance.” This was God’s doing. I am certain of it. The other happened on October 6th at Triple the Focus’ Lights, Camera, Fashion showcase. In my remarks I mentioned that the fashion show was a test run for a much bigger showcase that will take place during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in February and September 2014. At the end of the show, a beautiful young lady in the person of Alsion Roach, whom I know from networking mentioned that she is also in the planning stages with her partner to do a similar showcase during MBFW. I was floored. Needless to say, we are in talks about a joint venture. I mention these two separate incidents to arrive at this one conclusion - God is at work! Triple the Focus is not about me, it is about us having a platform to showcase our culture and having access to opportunities. Vera was not in my office by chance. Alsion was not at the Fashion show by chance. They were exactly where they were supposed to be – at the right time and the right place. Triple the Focus is a vessel – there is something bigger at play here and I am merely in place to execute what God has in store. Don’t you agree?
Stacey Bethel Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@TripleTheFocus.com
Founder & Editor in Chief STACEY BETHEL
Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE FASHION FASHION DIRECTOR: Arlene Martin (drennaLUNA) BEAUTY BEAUTY EDITOR: Christine Carr FITNESS Kamila McDonald Alcock FEATURES Jody-Ann Williams Malaika Lepine Shantell “Shanz” Hill LIFESTYLE Jo Wheeler Raine Martin PHOTO Marc Evans, Marc Evans Images Ajamu Myrie, Ajamu Photography
ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Caribbean E-Magazine, Triple the Focus launched its publication on October 5, 2011. With features that run the gamut from Music, Entertainment, Fitness, Beauty, Travel, Lifestyle and Finance, the Magazine has a reach that extends across the globe and includes countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South and Central America and by large the Caribbean. To date, the magazine has over 1,900,000 million page views not including other high traffic websites that hosts the link of the magazine on a monthly basis. On July 23, 2013, Triple the Focus was featured on the homepage of Digital Publishing website, Issuu. Out of 11 million publications, Triple the Focus’ February 2013 issue featuring athlete, Asafa Powell, June 2013 issue featuring Grammy Award winning reggae artist, Shaggy and July 2013 issue featuring 2010’ Miss Universe runner-up Yendi Phillipps, were prominently featured on the site exposing the magazine to 72 million readers. CONTACT Email: Info@triplethefocus.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US)
FOCUSED ON | Beauty
THE GIFT OF BEAUTY HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE By Christene Carr
The holidays are a great time to stock up on your favorite beauty products, fragrances and accessories at discounted prices and exclusive collections. Get shopping! 1. Sephora Favorites - Give Me Some Lip Sephora’s ‘Give Me Some Lip’ contains, gloss, sticks, glazes and balms from Sephora’s top selling brands. $25 (a $90 value) 2. Peter Thomas Roth Anniversary Kit This limited edition skin care kit contains five products to reduce the appearance of fine lines, resurface and brighten skin, rejuvenate eyes and an SPF to keep you protected. $35 (a $138 value) 3. Aveda Beautifying Composition A trio of bath products to cleanse, moisturize and nourish the skin. Essence of rosemary and bergamot will make this a bath time favorite. $52.50 4. Glitterrings and Jill Zarin Shop the GLITTERINGS and Jill Zarin collections for the fashionista in your life or pick up a few baubles for yourself. With fashionable pieces starting as low as $30, even your wallet will be happy. 5. Forever Brilliant Are Diamonds really a girl’s best friend? If you think they are, these gorgeous Forever Brilliant Moissanite gems created by Charles and Colvard will have you questioning your allegiance. Moissanite gems are more durable than sapphires, emeralds and rubies at just a fraction of the cost. 6. Benefit Cosmetics - It’s A Love Fest This four-piece collection includes Benefit’s The Porefessional, Coralista, Sun Beam and They’re Real! Mascara. $36 (a $87 value) 7. Tarte - The Tarte of giving collector’s set and travel bag
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This 34-piece collection contains Tarte’s tried and true: shadows, glosses, blush, cheek stain, treatment oil, eye cream and a bag. $59 (a $490 value) 8. A Few of My Favorite Things This 28-piece collection is an exceptional value that includes products for eyes, lips and face. $56 (a $436 value) 9. Coco Noir This Chanel scent is not as dark as either the name or the bottle suggests. Its warm oriental scent with notes of citrus, vanilla, rose, jasmine sandalwood, and white musk. $98 10. Lady Gaga Fame
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This mellow, unisex fragrance, that while black in the bottle, turns invisible when it hits the skin. $69 11. Love, Chloé Notes of orange blossom, musk iris, pepper, lilac and more makes this a sensual and seductive fragrance perfect for date night. $90 12. Honey by Marc Jacobs Energetic, fresh and fruity -- a youthful fragrance perfect for the young or young at heart. $72
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13. e.l.f. Studio 11 Piece Brush Collection At $45, this brush set is ergonomically designed and made with synthetic fibers. The brushes deliver flawless makeup application and are super easy to clean.
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Issue 25|November 2013 9
Money Matters: TIMESHARES & VACATION PLANS
FOCUSED ON | Finance
SOURCE: Source: http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0073-timeshares-and-vacation-plans
The thought of owning a vacation home may sound appealing, but the year-round responsibility — and expense — that come with it may not. Buying a timeshare or vacation plan may be an alternative. If you’re thinking about opting for a timeshare or vacation plan, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, says it’s a good idea to do some homework. If you’re not careful, you could end up having a hard time selling your timeshare. The Basics of Buying a Timeshare pay an initial purchase price and periTwo basic vacation ownership options are available: timeshares and vacation interval plans. The value of these options is in their use as vacation destinations, not as investments. Because so many timeshares and vacation interval plans are available, the resale value of yours is likely to be a good deal lower than what you paid. Both a timeshare and a vacation interval plan require you to
odic maintenance fees. The initial purchase price may be paid all at once or over time; periodic maintenance fees are likely to increase every year. Deeded Timeshare Ownership. In a timeshare, you either own your vacation unit for the rest of your life, for the number of years spelled out in your purchase contract, or until you sell it. Your interest is legally considered real property. You buy the right to use a specific Issue 25|November 2013 11
unit at a specific time every year, and you may rent, sell, exchange, or bequeath Within the “right to use” option, your specific timeshare unit. You and the several plans can affect your abilother timeshare owners collectively own ity to use a unit: the resort property. • Fixed or Floating Time. In a fixed time
Unless you’ve bought the timeshare outoption, you buy the unit for use durright for cash, you are responsible for paying a specific week of the year. In a ing the monthly mortgage. Regardless floating time option, you use the unit of how you bought the timeshare, you within a certain season of the year, also are responsible for paying an annual reserving the time you want in admaintenance fee; property taxes may be extra. Owners share in the use and upkeep vance; confirmation typically is proof the units and of the common grounds vided on a first-come, first-served baof the resort property. A homeowners’ assis. sociation usually handles management of the resort. Timeshare owners elect officers and control the expenses, the upkeep of • Fractional Ownership. Rather than an annual week, you buy a large share the resort property, and the selection of of vacation ownership time, usually the resort management company. up to 26 weeks.
“Right to Use” Vacation Interval Option. In this option, a developer owns the re- • Biennial Ownership. You use a resort sort, which is made up of condominiums unit every other year. or units. Each condo or unit is divided into “intervals” — either by weeks or the equivalent in points. You purchase the right to • Lockoff or Lockout. You occupy a portion of the unit and offer the use an interval at the resort for a specific number of years — typically between 10 remaining space for rental or exand 50 years. The interest you own is lechange. These units typically have gally considered personal property. The two to three bedrooms and baths. specific unit you use at the resort may not be the same each year. In addition to the price for the right to use an interval, you • Points-Based Vacation Plans. You buy a certain number of points, and pay an annual maintenance fee that is exchange them for the right to use likely to increase each year.
an interval at one or more resorts. In a points-based vacation plan (sometimes called a vacation club), the number of points you need to use an interval varies according to the length of the stay, size of the unit, location of the resort, and when you want to use it.
Sex, Love, Reggae
& GYPTIAN! By Stacey Bethel Photos by Zev Schmitz
No one has ever said, “Gyptian sounds like...!” His is one of the most recognizable voices in Reggae music. With smooth deliveries on chart topping hits such as ‘Hold Yuh,’ ‘Nah Let Go,’ ‘Beautiful Lady,’ and ‘I Can Feel Your Pain,’ Gyptian has cemented his place in reggae music and is on his way to claiming mainstream appeal – he recently recreated Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” which was part of Chevrolet and MTV Iggy’s “Cover The World” campaign.
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ince his breakout single ‘Serious Times,’ he has evolved tremendously thanks in part to talent scout and promoter Ravin Wong and Earl “Chinna” Smith, the legendary reggae guitarist known for his work with Lee “Scratch” Perry and Bob Marley who recognized his talent from early on. Under their tutelage, Gyptian honed his craft, winning the 2004 Star Search talent competition at Kens Wild Flower Lounge in Portmore which earned him a spot on the 2004 lineup for Sting. Through his hardwork and pension for perfection, he has racked up a slew of accolades including a MOBO (Music Of Black Origin) Award for Best Reggae Act, Soul Train Music Award for Best Reggae Artist, nomination for Best New Entertainer at the 2006 International Reggae and World Music Awards, his single ‘Hold Yuh’ which peaked at number 91 on the Billboard Hot 100, number 33 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Chart, number 6 on the Billboard Heatseekers Songs Chart and topped the Reggae Digital Songs chart for nine consecutive weeks.
‘Hold Yuh’ re-entered the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually reached a new peak of 77 on that chart, number 3 on the Heatseekers Songs chart, 31 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Chart, 63 on the Radio Songs chart and an astonishing peak of 28 on the Billboard Rhythmic Top 40, capitalizing it crossover success. The remix for the song features rapper Nicki Minaj. It spent 29 weeks on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Chart and 15 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. According to Billboard Magazine, “not since Wayne Wonder’s “No Letting Go,” has an underground reggae artist garnered as much attention in the United States as Jamaica’s own Gyptian.” It was eventually certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America for sales of over 500,000, becoming the first reggae single to attain that status since Damian Marley’s ‘Welcome To Jamrock’ in 2005. Fast forward to 2013, Gyptian has reinvented himself with his latest offering Sex, Love & Reggae. Hailed as his most diverse album yet, SLR is coexecutive produced by Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis, who has worked with Miguel, Mary J. Blige, Lupe Issue 25| November 2013 15
Fiasco, the Fugees, among others. The album features R&B mega talent Estelle, Melanie Fiona, and Angela Hunte (of Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” fame) and Soca artists Bunji Garlin, Kes the Band and global dancehall ambassadors Major Lazer.
career, if anything? Yes well it brought bigger audiences to my shows. More exposer is better. I felt great.
You recorded a cover of Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors” for Chevrolet and MTV Iggy’s Cover The World showcase. How did that come about? In a candid interview, Gyptian opens up about his What was the recording process like? And lastly, humble beginnings, life, and his first love, Music! what was it like working with producer Rellee Hayden? Well Michael McGraw from VP linked my How did you come by the stage name Gyptian management about a promotion that MTV Iggy and what does it mean, if anything? I used to wrap was doing. They wanted me to cover a Cyndi my head a lot and every time I went to the studio Lauper track “True Colors” and I replied of course. they would call me an Egyptian. People would My A&R Neil Diamond called Shane Brown of Juke shorten it and call me Gyptian later on. Boxx Records to put together the track and Rellee to record and arrange the vocals. Working with Butcher? I am sure no one would have ever Rellee and Shane was a very good experience. I guessed that. How did that happen? Well it’s one thank them both. of those things. . . It was a job in my early days LOL. Cant and will never erase the past. It made me the man that I am today. Did you always know you had this talent to sing and write? Yes at an early age. I was always singing cover songs then changing the words to later creating my own melodies. I was just doing it out of love until I realized this is how the pros do it.
This album is definitely a step in the right direction for me as an artist. I am always growing as a person and an artist.
How supportive were your parents when you decided that you wanted to become an artist? They were very supportive. My father owned a sound system so it was natural for me to love music. Congratulations on your fourth installment, “Sex, Love and Reggae.” Thanks. What was your thought process behind your breakout single “Serious Times?” I was just looking Why “Sex, Love and Reggae” as the album’s title? at my country Jamaica and thought how beautiful Those are three of my favorite things. it is but the social and economical climate wasn’t so good. So I just put my thoughts in a song. What was it like working with producer Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis who has worked with Miguel, How did you feel when you heard “Serious Times” Mary J. Blige, Lupe Fiasco, The Fugees etc.? play on the radio for the first time? Do you recall Jerry is great and makes the recording process where you were and what you were doing? I was entertaining. He is multitalented. I respect his with friends when I first heard it on the radio. The vision and I will be doing more work with him in feeling was great. I felt 100 ft. tall. the near future. Your first album “My Name is Gyptian” earned you a comparison to Gregory Isaacs. Do you agree with that comparison and do you think that is a fair comparison? Well Gregory is one of my favorites so that is a great compliment. Your most global single to date is “Hold You.” During the writing stages, did you think “we might have something big here?” Well even before I recorded the song I used to sing it to myself Acapella and the melody was infectious. So I had an Idea that it would make an impact.
On this album you have singles with Estelle and Melanie Fiona. Was that deliberate in order to gain mainstream appeal? Yes recording with both was deliberate. I wanted to bring different worlds together. They are both beautiful souls. I enjoyed every moment with them.
You also worked with Soca artists Bunji Garlin, Kes and the Band and electronic dancehall DJ, Major Lazer. What was the energy like in the studio? Energy was crazy. Like I said before, this album is definitely a step in the right direction for me as an artist. I am always growing as a person and an “Hold You” sold over 500,000 copies – the first artist. Variety is the spice of life. reggae single to attain that status since Damian Marley’s “Welcome to Jamrock.” How did that What’s next? More music,videos and Gyptian. make you feel and what has that done for your
Issue 25 |November 2013 17
ABOUT SEX, LOVE AND REGGAE The 17-Track Set Co-Executive Produced by Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis and Features Major Lazer, Melanie Fiona, Estelle, Bunji Garlin, Angela Hunte and Kes The Band
The MOBO and Soul Train awardwinning Jamaican singer Gyptian returns with his fourth studio album Sex, Love and Reggae on October 29 on VP Records, a marked departure from his previous releases that unveils another layer of his artistry. The musically diverse set - that takes the listener from dancehall to soca to global pop and R&B sounds - follows his 2010 criticallyacclaimed album Hold You and its RIAA certified Gold title track. 17-track set is co-executive produced by Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis, who is known for cranking out hits for superstars such as Miguel, Mary J. Blige, Lupe Fiasco, the Fugees and many more. The album features guest appearances from R&B divas Estelle and Melanie Fiona to Soca stars Bunji Garlin and Kes the Band. Global dancehall ambassadors Major Lazer also co-produced on the title track. Sex, Love and Reggae is a spicy and sweet mixture, just as the title would imply. He displays his playful side with wine-inducing anthems like “Non Stop” and “Wine Slow” (which already received over 7.5 million YouTube views for the lyrics video alone) and reveals his affectionate side on romantic ballads like “Royal Love” feat. Estelle and the breathtaking rendition of this Gregory Isaacs classic “My Number One.” He even delves outside of the genre and recreates Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” which was part of Chevrolet and MTV Iggy’s “Cover The World” campaign. Bringing a much-needed dose of reggae back to the airwaves, the album’s latest single “Vixen” is currently picking up steam on radio stations across the U.S. and U.K. and will drop a new video directed by Jamaica’s talented Ras Kassa (of Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s “Welcome To Jamrock” fame). The sultry anthem is co-written by and features Angela Hunte, the Grammy-winning artist who also penned Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind.”
TRACK LIST 1. G Spot 2. A Reggae Morning 3. Be Alright 4. I’m So 5. Overtime 6. Vixen Feat. Angela Hunte 7. Sex, Love and Reggae feat. Angela Hunte & Bunji Garlin 8. Non Stop 9. Wet Fete feat. Kes The Band 10. Turn Me On 11. Wine Slow 12. One More Time feat. Melanie Fiona 13. Royal Love feat. Estelle 14. Good Girl 15. Murderer 16. True Colors 17. My Number One REVIEWS “rise of a Caribbean crossover...confident and expressive...needs no bells and whistles — no pitch-shifting, no fashionable electronic drum sounds to squirm its way into your ear” - NPR “….soothing tune about love…You probably still can’t get the infectious melody of “Hold Yuh” out of your head but you’re going to have to make room for “My Number One.” - EBONY “poised to become the first underground reggae star to break through to the mainstream in a very long time.” -MTV IGGY “a winning sound that’s part R&B, part reggae, and part old-school dancehall” -SPIN “Gyptian has taken hold of alternative reggae and brought it back to life.” -BILLBOARD
Issue 25 | November 2013 19
HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO!! By Kamila McDonald-Alcock
Bicycle Roll Up
Holiday season is fast approaching and the party lists are getting longer and longer. This usually means the diet you’ve worked so hard on maintaining these past few weeks are in serious jeopardy of becoming history.
mess with the healthy balance of bodily functions.
Too often we believe that being on a diet means giving up all the things we love–this couldn’t be more wrong! In order to make your scale not budge you do need to keep a close watch of your portions, caloric intake and more importantly where those calories are coming from.
FIRST THINGS FIRST lets slash the FAT!
BUT here’s the good news! Many recipes can undergo a massive renovation without affecting the taste or texture. Here’s how.
Did you know one cup of butter in a recipe adds 1,600 calories and 177 grams of fat?!
Even though these are healthy substitutions they still count as part of your daily caloric intake so eat in Baked goods and sweet goodies are moderation. Enjoy! more often than not extremely high in fat (the bad kind), high in sugar, sodium (a diet murderer) and include a long list of horrific ingredients that
7 Substitutes OIL: In ANY recipe that calls for oil, use an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce instead. GREASING THE PANS: Instead of using butter to grease the pans, pour the cake batter into nonstick baking pans or use cooking spray liberally on the inside of the pans.
SODIUM: Try recipes that don’t call for salt. If you must, try recipe that doesn’t need yeast. That way you can cut the amount of salt required in half!
NATURAL SPICES: If recipe calls for 1tsp of cinnamon or vanilla extract use two or three tsp after cutting the sugar. It will boost the flavor without really adding calories. Experiment and taste the batter before baking it with the least amount of sugar possible especially if you have added fruit puree like bananas or unsweetened applesauce which already has its own natural sugars. For recipes that call for chocolate, use cocoa powder instead! MILK AND CHEESE: Always use a low fat or fat free substitute and you can almost always cut down on how much you are using. For example, instead of using full fat milk or 2% use an equal amount (or slightly less) 1% or skimmed milk.
SUGAR: Simply cut the amount of sugar required for the recipe in half (instead of 1 cup of sugar use ½ cup sugar) or try Stevia which is 100% natural with zero calories, zero carbohydrates and a zero glycemic index. For those who don’t believe in fake sugars, Stevia may be the answer to many of your sweetening “issues.” Another option is Honey - has more vitamins and minerals, is sweeter and raises one’s blood sugar more slowly than sugar.
EGGS: All the fat in an egg is located in the yolk. Substitute 2 egg whites in place of each full egg to eliminate the fat. Issue 25| November 2013 21
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BRITISH DEPENDENCY FINDING WISDOM AVAILABLE ON
JA
OLYMPIAN AND WORLD CHAMPION ASAFA POWELL UNVEILS 2014 CALENDAR!
2014 is the year of Asafa Powell...literally.
dar is the newest addition to the sprinter’s “Team Asafa” line of products and memorabilia that The Olympian and World Cham- are currently sold via the Shop pion launched his line of calen- Asafa tab on his website www. dars for the upcoming year 2014 iamasafa.com. on October 25, 2013. The calenIssue 25| November 2013 23
ANUARY 2015
FEBRUA
FOCUSED ON | Lifestyle Powell, who is the world’s fourth fastest man and former 100M world record holder, began teasing fans late last month with posts from various months of the calendar on social media platforms *Instagram*, *Facebook* and *Twitter*. “We posted some behind-the-scenes photos from the photo shoot as well as a few shots of the months from the calendar and the response was just massive. Ladies were asking to see their month and wanted to know when and where they could buy their calendar,” the charming Powell said. He continued that the idea to create the calendars was even more exciting since it’s another first for the athlete and any Jamaican at that and especially because they come with a little ‘extra’ for his fans. “The photos for each month are completely detachable. So when the month is done, the photos actually become collectable posters and we also added the first 4 months of 2015 as another bonus for fans” said Tara PlayfairScott, Powell’s publicist.
Powell launched his calendar on October 25, 2013 at Bookophillia, where sponsors such as Baileys, SportsMax, Coca-Cola & Tru-Juice made the night exciting for the fans who came out to support and purchase calendars. The first 97 fans who purchased a calendar received an autograph by the Sub 10 King as well as their picture taken with him. As of October 25, 2013 Asafa’s calendars are on sale in Jamaica at Bookophilia and Sangsters Bookstore outlets island-wide as well as on Powell’s website, www.iamasafa.com for his International fan base. Powell shot to international stardom in June 2005 when he broke the 100m world record (then 9.78) with a time of 9.77seconds. In May 2008 Powell shattered the record again, stopping the clock at 9.74seconds. The decorated sprinter has had the honor of representing Jamaica at the Olympics, World Games and the Commonwealth Games—where he has medalled. Powell currently holds the record for the most sub-10 100M runs in the history of the sport.
FOCUSED ON | Music
Pakistani Pop Star: Annie Khalid By Jody Ann Williams Noor–ul–Ain, more popularly known as Annie Khalid, is an accomplished entertainer, philanthropist and entrepreneur. She was born in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan and raised in Essex, London. In 2005 a friend of hers recognized her talent and advised her to see a music arranger who would help her develop what would be her first single, ‘Mahiya’. This single was released in Pakistan and things looked hopeful when a record company decided to get on board to assist with propelling her career. ‘Mahiya’ became an instant hit and received several awards. Additionally, the single was used in the movie, Awarapan. In 2007 she was the face of Pepsi Pakistan and a showstopper at the 2010 L’Oreal Karachi fashion week for BNS Couture. With her newly found success, Annie decided it was only right to use her fame to help charities educate and inform the masses about health and societal issues. To that end proceeds from her single ‘Be My Baby’ were donated to the flood victims in Pakistan. In addition to being an artists and a philanthropist, she is the owner of A.K Lounge in Lahore, a hot spot for young adults. Her latest project, ‘Boom Boom Danze’ featuring Grammy Award Winning Artist, Beenie Man, has been featured on MTV Desi, hit various dance markets along with 4 other remixes that debuted at the number 4 position on the iTunes World Charts and according to her reps, there might be a BBC documentary in the works on Annie’s lifestyle. Meet the beautiful and talented, Annie Khalid. Your latest single features Grammy Award Winner, Beenie Man, what was it like working with him? It was an amazing experience. Beenie Man is a cool person with a great personality. He made me feel comfortable.
Other than your fans, who are your biggest supporters? My parents, my brothers and sister and my brother-inlaw, who is also the head of a TV network in Pakistan so his advice is always invaluable. I have some amazing friends who have been there since day one. Do you have any favourite track that you’ve recorded? My ultimate fav will always be the first one! Mahiya is my baby! What has been your biggest accomplishment to date? I have had so many I don’t know which one to say has been the biggest. Working with Beenie Man has been a massive one but I think generally the biggest has been conquering Pakistan and making a mark there. It means a lot to me as it’s my home country. Are you treated any differently by friends/peers since you’ve been in the industry? Not really, I don’t have yesmen around me anymore. I used to but I realized that it was unhealthy because I didn’t know who was real and who was fake. Now I surround myself with the ones who will not hesitate to tell me if I’m wrong Outside of music, what other business/charity ventures are you involved in? I have been the Goodwill ambassador for the Norwegian Red Cross for the flood victims of Pakistan which was quite an accomplishment for me. I helped raise over 4 million Kroner that went straight towards the flood victims. Any plans on collaborating with anyone else from the Dancehall/Reggae industry? After such a great experience I would definitely love to collaborate with more Reggae/Dancehall artists especially Lady Saw!
“I would definitely love to collaborate with more Reggae/ Dancehall artists especially Lady Saw!�
Issue 25| November 2013 27
FOCUSED ON | Fashion
THE FIRST STAGING OF TRIPLE THE FOCUS’
LIGHTS, CAMERA, FASHION A SUCCESS! Photos by Champion Hamilton
In celebration of their 2 year Anniversary, Triple the Focus E-Magazine launched a fashion showcase dubbed, Lights, Camera, Fashion, which was held at the newly opened Milk River Café in Brooklyn, New York on Sunday, October 6, 2013. The event, hosted by Supermodel Stacey McKenzie, featured Caribbean labels drennaLUNA, LaPoshe, Donovan DePass and Pieces NY.
warmth of the sun. Donovan DePass followed with his chic collection of hues in orange, tan, black, white and silver. Mr. DePass a FIT graduate, has worked with Donna Karan, VPL by Victoria Bartlett, Laundry by Shelly Segal, Vera Wang, Isaac Mizrahi Couture, Sharagano Paris, Alice & Olivia, Victoria’s Secret, and Rachel by Rachel Roy. Mr. DePass’ collection featured dresses for the sophisticated and glamorous woman, having The event started at 3pm with opening remarks an ensemble for every event in her life. The ready by Creative Director Victor E. Lewis who intro- to wear line was fun, flirty and sexy. duced the host for the night, Stacey McKenzie. Ms. McKenzie, a fashion model, runway and Pieces NY’ by Crystal Boucaud came next. Ms. model coach, has worked with top designers in- Boucaud styled models in white tanks and dark cluding Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler, Alex- denim jeans so that her one of a kind pieces ander McQueen, Betsey Johnson, Tommy Hilfiger, would make a statement on the runway, and it Todd Oldham, Michiko Koshino and Christian La- worked. The handcrafted jewelry and accessocroix. The exceptional beauty has appeared on ries were a mixture of beads, crystals, and colors magazine covers such as City Life, Glassbook that popped against the varying skin color of the Magazine, Boss, Essence, Le Monde and Pa- models. An instant hit from the beginning of the nache, as well as editorials in Vogue (US, Japan, show, Pieces NY proved to be the ultimate accesKorea, Britain, Spain), Harper’s Bazaar, Interview, sory that every woman must have. Flare, Fashion, Vibe and recently, the October issue of Triple the Focus. Stacey has appeared in a Closing the show was drennaLUNA’ Montego Bay number of major campaigns including Benetton, Collection. The Spring/Summer 2014 collection Calvin Klein CK, Jean Paul Gaultier, MAC, Mexx, showcased designs that were fluid, soft and roReebok, Todd Oldham Jeans, Nordstrom, Barneys mantic. Made in all white fabrics, the collection and Banana Republic. Outside of modeling, she reflected the essence of the drennaLUNA brand, appeared in the movie “The Fifth Element” and with details that included pleats, tucks, folds and on TV shows MTV Stylissimo and Canada’s Next draping. Designer Arlene Martin scored big time Top Model. with her designs and will undoubtedly snag a few loyal customers. After a few remarks, Ms. McKenzie asked the father of Founder and Editor in Chief of Triple the Of the event, Stacey Bethel remarks, “This was our Focus, Stacey Bethel, to introduce his daughter. first event and we are elated at the turn out and Ms. Bethel, a little choked up from her father’s in- how well it came off. This was a trial run for what is troduction, thanked guests along with her family to come as we move forward in planning the secfor their support and encouragement since the in- ond staging during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week ception of the magazine, adding that “we would in February and September 2014. I look forward not have made it this far without you and we are to everyone’ continued support.” truly grateful.” Lights, Camera, Fashion was sponsored by Milk The show opened with the resort collection River Café, Birchbox, Mario Badescu, The Pink LaPoshe. Designer Camesha Powell took guests Locket, Su-Kari, The Love Scent, Styles & Vibes, Vion an island getaway with beautiful vibrant col- cRae, Inc., Pieces NY and Themalaika.com. ors and sensual prints all reminiscent of sand between your toes, sea air against your skin, and the
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FOCUSED ON | Fashion
Photos by Champion Hamilton
Jamaica-born, NYC-based designer Camesha Powell creates pieces that epitomize the modern woman who owns her sensuality and celebrates her femininity. Her women’s RTW line POSHE, launched in 2007 has been showcased in New York, Miami, London and the Caribbean attracting both local and international attention from press, buyers and fashion insiders. Her resort collection LAPOSHE is a reflection of her tropical upbringing and exotic influences from travels around the world. The design style focuses on striking that perfect balance between being vibrant and sexy yet glamorous and sophisticated.
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FOCUSED ON | Fashion
Photos by Champion Hamilton
Ever since I was a child I loved art. I grew up sketching landscapes, people and scenic places in my neighborhood. I wanted to become an artist. It was later in my life I figured out that most artists work is more valuable when they are dead and I wanted to benefit from it now. I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology State University of New York (F.I.T) and obtained a degree in Fashion Design. I have interned and worked for various outstanding designers such as Donna Karan, VPL by Victoria Bartlett, Laundry by Shelly Segal, Vera Wang, Isaac Mizrahi Couture, Sharagano Paris, Alice & Olivia, Victoria’s Secret, and Rachel by Rachel Roy. Each designer gave me different insight and inspiration that made me think outside the box with my own creativity and molded me in the designer I am today.
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FOCUSED ON | Fashion
Photos by Champion Hamilton
“It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure.� COCO Channel The pieces NY label, an off spring of Pieces TT, was founded in 2011 after stylist Crystal Boucaud saw the need to provide customers with fashionable, chic, different and affordable accessories, as well as styling service. Each piece is a statement piece that captures the attention of others. Since its inception, the label has received rave reviews and has been seen in numerous magazine articles, on Trinidad and Tobago Soca artiste Patrice Roberts and fashion runway shows.
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FOCUSED ON | Fashion
Photos by Champion Hamilton
The designs include both structure and fluidity. The Spring/Summer 2014 collection is inspired by the different sides of Jamaica: the soft, friendly side of the laidback people known globally, and our get-down-to-business serious nature that pushes many of us to achieve. Montego Bay, with its growing business sector while remaining the island’s leading tourist resort, is the ideal representation of this. Made in white, the collection is soft and sophisticated reflecting the essence of the drennaLUNA brand, but bold silhouettes reflect the bold nature of the people of Jamaica. Details in the structured items of the collection include pleats and tucks, while folds and draping in softer fabrics create the soft fluid side.
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FOCUSED ON | Travel
ISLAND STYLE: RESORTS Bermuda | Rosewood Tucker’s Point Opened in 2009, Rosewood Tucker’s Point sits on Bermuda’s largest private beach and caters to both golf lovers and vacationers. The Bermuda luxury hotel is decorated in classic British seaside style with tasteful furnishings, scenic views and professional services.
British Virgin Islands | Biras Creek Resort Recognized as one of the top luxury destinations in the Caribbean, Biras Creek was named the #1 Hotel in the BVI by US News & World Report. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, our 31 suites set among 140 acres on beautiful Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Biras Creek is located on a narrow strip of land between two hills on a narrow peninsula, with views of three distinct bodies of water - the tranquil protected lagoon of the North Sound, the open Atlantic Ocean and the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
Jamaica | Geejam Hotel While blending all the creature comforts of home, it’s very much a portal into authentic Jamaican culture. Nestled in the heart of the bush, this property’s seven double rooms consist of three deluxe cabins, one suite, and a self-contained three-bedroom villa. Also included are a state of the art Recording Studio, Healing Spa, Swimming Pool (Sanwood only), Gym and Bushbar, forming an exclusive universe within the natural beauty of the grounds.
St. Barts | Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France Hotel St Barth Isle de France 5* is located on one of the loveliest beaches of St Barthélemy, Flamands Beach, just 5 minutes by car from the airport and the main town Gustavia. Every room is individually decorated, vintage French fabrics and sheer linens in pale natural tones complement the indigenous colors of St Barths. This luxury Boutique-hotel offers 40 rooms, suites & villas.
Turks & Caicos | Regent Palms The 72-suite Regent Palms resort in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. Located just steps away from the flawless white sands and sparkling sapphire waters of the Grace Bay Beach – ranked as among the most beautiful in the world - the luxury resort offers maximum pampering and indulgence. Boundless ocean views from stylishly-appointed rooms and suites ensure peace and tranquility while world-class amenities; including a 25,000 square foot spa and state-of-the-art infinity pool, promise rest and relaxation. A well-equipped Fitness Centre, together with water sports and tennis cater for more active guests and a dedicated children’s’ club provides fun and excitement for younger
St. Lucia | Jade Mountain Rising majestically above the 600 acre beach front resort of Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain St. Lucia is a cornucopia of organic architecture celebrating St Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty. The bold architectural design – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade Mountain St. Lucia one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences. Issue 25| November 2013 39
FOCUSED ON | Travel
ISLAND STYLE: BEACH LIFE St. Thomas, USVI: Magens Bay Beach Located on the North (Atlantic) side of the island, Magens Bay features a well-protected white sand beach stretching for nearly three quarters of a mile. It is one of the most popular tourist beach destinations on the island. The beach sits at the head of a deep bay, the arms of which are Peterborg peninsula to the east and Tropaco Point to the west.
Harbour Island, Bahamas: Pink Sands Beach Three plus miles long and 50 to 100 feet wide – considered one of the very best pink sand beaches in the world. The pink color comes from time microscopic shelled animals known as Foraminifera.
ST. John, USVI: Trunk Bay Trunk Bay has consistently been voted one of the Ten Best Beaches in The World by Condé Nast Traveler magazine and has received similar recognition from other publications. It is one of the most popular beaches on the island whose amenities include a snack bar, showers and restrooms, lifeguards, and, most famously, an underwater trail for snorkeling its coral reef.
Buck Island, St. Croix: Turtle Beach Turtle Beach on Buck’s west end has been voted one of the world’s most beautiful beaches by National Geographic. The underwater trail is a snorkelers’ dream come true. Buck Island’s Turtle Beach is not directly on St Croix. Buck Island is an uninhabited island located right off the shore of St Croix, so you have to take a quick boat or kayak ride to reach it.
Virgin Gorda, BVI: The Baths Located on the southern end of the island, “The Baths” makes Virgin Gorda one of the BVI’s major tourist destinations. At The Baths, the beach shows evidence of the island’s volcanic origins, as huge granite boulders lie in piles on the beach, forming scenic grottoes that are open to the sea.
FOCUSED ON | Travel
USVI ONLINE VIDEO STORIES
Source: United States Virgin Islands Department “We are really keen to unveil this particular of Tourism
series as it features both the authenticity of The US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism our islands and the expertise of our local filmis offering travelers pictures of paradise with makers,” said Beverly Nicholson-Doty, Comthe debut of a homegrown series of video vi- missioner of Tourism. gnettes featuring the authentic beauty and The Commissioner explained that Telltaleexperiences of the Territory. Pictures, a local production company, proThe eight-part series launched on Tuesday, duced the series after their successful comOctober 29 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, across the pletion of the government’s procurement Department of Tourism’s social media plat- process. forms, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, For more information about the United States and Instagram. The segments, ranging from accommoda- Virgin Islands, go to VisitUSVI.com, follow us tions to activities and attractions, will be on Twitter( @USVITourism) and become a fan launched each morning for an entire week on Facebook . When traveling to the U.S. Virand will be narrated by a Virgin Islander gin Islands, U.S. citizens enjoy all the conve“ambassador” with expertise in the featured niences of domestic travel - including on-line check-in - making travel to the U.S. Virgin Istheme. lands easier than ever. As a United States Ter“These videos represent a powerful tool to ritory, travel to the U.S. promote the US Virgin Islands experience,” said Chantal Figueroa, Deputy Commissioner Virgin Islands does not require a passport from U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or of Tourism. the U.S. mainland. Entry requirements for non“We want to attract new visitors to our Terri- U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the tory, and offer our valued guests memories of United States from any foreign destination. our beautiful scenery and the creative dyna- Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens. mism of our people,” she added. The segments feature accommodations, culture, special events, romance, shopping, activities and attractions, the dive experience, and sports in the US Virgin Islands.
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Creative Director’s Note BE ENTERTAINED, ENLIGHTENED AND ELECTRIFIED! Here we are, Issue 25 – the beginning of year three with Reggae crooner, GYPTIAN, gracing the cover. Celebrating the release of his fourth studio album, ‘SEX, LOVE & REGGAE,’ which promises to be unlike anything we have heard before, has already garnered two thumbs up from MTV Iggy, Ebony, Billboard, Spin and NPR. For our international readers who were not able to celebrate Triple The Focus’ 2 year Anniversary with us in New York, we have exclusive coverage of our Fashion Showcase dubbed Lights, Camera, Fashion. Designers LAPOSHE, DONOVAN DEPASS, PIECES NY and DRENNA LUNA put on an excellent showcase of their Spring/Summer 2014 collection, which remains the talk of the town. Athlete Asafa Powell who graced the February 2013 cover is back on our pages with information about his 2014 Calendar. The calendar shows off Asafa’ athletic physique which I am sure will have fans all over the globe scrambling to his website to purchase a copy. The season to run South is here and as you consider the winter get away, I hope our Island Style: Beach Life and Resorts and MONEY MATTERS features can assist with your planning. For those who have spent time in the gym getting into shape, the holiday season can be sort of crimpling as you fight to keep your diet and exercise regiment in tact. Have no fear. Kamila has tidbits on how to stay on the bandwagon in our FITNESS feature. And since we are on the subject of Holidays, check out our gift guide. After all, Christmas is the season of giving. For this month’s artist feature we traveled across the globe to bring you, Pakistani Pop Star, Annie Khalid who has a new single with Beenie Man. A model, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Khalid is poised to achieve great things. This month take your time going through the magazine because I guarantee you that you will be entertained, enlightened and electrified. And to you and your family, have a Happy Thanksgiving. Please continue to write and share your thoughts creativedirector@triplethefocus.com. We welcome the chance to share and introduce you to exciting products and contents from the Caribbean. Our team is looking forward to your continued support and feedback.
Victor E.Lewis Your Creative Director
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