TROPICS MAGAZINE | N°63 with Phyllis MALOPE by Tropics Magazine

WELCOME NOTE

TROPICS Editorial Team

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International Editors:

The 2nd edition of the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT was just held at the Parktonian Protea Hotel by Marriott in Johannesburg, South Africa from 16 to 20 October 2018. More than 400 delegates flocked to the venue representing thirty seven countries to attend one of the most prestigious investment events on the African continent. We in Africa are most heartened by the continued interest of an increasing number of countries in this important international gathering, for which, we are sparing no effort to make it as valuable as possible and a most profitable experience for all TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT attendees. We are indeed most pleased to note the increasing number of participants, both in terms of public and private sector representatives from a large mix of countries and regions but also the rising number of investment and funding specialists and experts, who continue to faithfully accompany us in this beautiful endeavour, sharing with our community their cutting-edge knowledge and contributing to the delivery of a first class conference with high quality content. More than ever, the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT proved to be a prime venue for meeting, networking, exploring and conducting business as more than B2B meetings took place, leading to the conclusion of a large number of business and cooperation agreements worth millions of dollars. This is exactly the purpose that the founding company TROPICS HOLDINGS LTD. and its co-organizing counterparts CREB HOLDINGS and MERiTS GROUP had in mind in setting up this annual gathering two years ago on the aftermath of the global financial and economic crisis. We measure with pride the path accomplished, the results achieved and the concrete and most fruitful outcomes realised together thanks to your continued interest, faithful attendance and active engagement. The TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT 2018 proved once more to be a multilingual, formidable conduit and a prime venue for policy makers and investors alike. Some 250 high-level dignitaries took part in the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT proceedings including heads and senior officials of international organizations and bodies such as TEA GROUP LTD., HD CONSULTING, SACONO, ARIES INVESTISSEMENTS, O'DELLYA CONSULTING and GOOGLE SOUTH AFRICA to name but a few. The increasing number of corporate representatives at a senior level from developed and developing countries' transnationals is a testimony of the business value this global meeting has as a unique platform to present their new investment strategies, meet senior public figures and discover new investment destinations. Our sincere thanks go to all the Government Officials and deputy ministers, ambassadors for their moral support, and most importantly thank you to our strategic partners at SACONO, PHILANI DEVELOPMENT CENTRE, 24KARAT RESEARCH AND PRODUCTION, AFRIKA FOURTH INDUSTRIAL (AFI) BACKSBERG WINES, STARTUP GRIND, and the CITY OF JOBURG as well as investment professionals for their continued interest and unfailing support. We are grateful to have gotten a great support from Madam Nomantu Nkomo Ralehoko better known as the Deputy Speaker at the Gauteng Legislature and we're most grateful her for endorsing this initiative and also for paving the way forward for the young generation of female leaders all across Africa. Africa is ready and once again most pleased to invite you to the third edition of the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT scheduled in October 2019 in the cosmopolitan city of Johannesburg, also known as Mzansi or the 'City of Gold'. The organizers will spare no effort to provide you with another first class event of high quality which will focus on “Pan-African Investment, Path to Competitiveness and Development” and the far reaching implications that are influencing the ever-changing regional investment map, a hot topic which I am sure will be of great interest to all the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT investment community. I am looking forward to welcoming you next year to the third edition of the first-ever multilingual and multi-platforms business summit in Mama WInnie Mandela's land. The TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT 2018 will be the occasion to gather the world's leading academics, experts and practitioners to discuss and explain the importance of national competitiveness to economic growth and advancement, and outline the factors that contribute to each country's competitiveness. It will shed light on the special contribution of African Investment Funds to the competitiveness of national economies and will explore the special characteristics of foreign firms that enhance the degree to which they are able to contribute to the competitiveness of their host nations. The conference will also look at the implications of such processes. And we urge every sponsor and partner to join hands with us in order to make our next edition a success. In Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela words, "If you are to free yourselves you must break the chains of oppression yourselves. Only then can we express our dignity, only when we have liberated ourselves can we co-operate with other groups. Any acceptance of humiliation, indignity or insult is acceptance of inferiority." Africa, wake up and make the right choice!

V.S. Guinot 5x Awards-Winning Editor in Chief / Founder TROPICS MAGAZINE

International photographers: FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER & REPORTER | Andre Bergeron FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER & CORRESPONDENT | Des Richards FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER & CORRESPONDENT | Roy Anthony Morrison

Editorial Queries: For any editorial, advertising, promotions and subscriptions queries get in touch with our editorial team by sending us an email via hello@tropicsmag.com. To subscribe to Tropics Magazine, please visit www.tropicsmag.com

Publishing Group & Management: TROPICS Magazine is owned and published by THE TROPICS HOLDINGS Ltd. CHAIRWOMAN & PRESIDENT | Venicia Guinot VICE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN | Chili Palmers BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER | Loetitia Modzanga Gambolo Okouna EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | Valerie Sosso Moukouelle ATTORNEYS | Vincent Samba Avocats CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER | Rey-Anderson Moudzoki DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR | Marcelle Joselya Guinot

Global Representation: Johannesburg | Paris | Martinique | London | Ottawa | New York | Ottawa | Colombo | Headquarters: Beverley Gardens, Johannesburg 2194, South Africa. ISSN: 1234567 890128 Registration No: 2015/047824/07 VAT No.: 9572506179 Phone No.: +27 (0) 60 860 1349 2010-2019 Copyright and Trademark owned by THE TROPICS GROUP OF COMPANIES (Pty) Ltd. All Rights Reserved The terms and conditions of shall be exclusively governed by, and construed in accordance with South African and International law. The reader(s) irrevocably agrees that the courts of South Africa shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute which may arise out of, under, or in connection with these terms and conditions or the legal relationship established by them, and for those purposes irrevocably submit all disputes to The jurisdiction of the South African and International courts.

CONTENTS

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08 11 12 13 17 18 19 22 24 27 28 30 35 39 42 44

TRENDING South Sudan Surgeon wins UN Prize for Treating war-hit refugees BOOK WORMS 6 great business books to read in 2018 CULTURE Barthelemy Toguo at Parrish Art Museum SOCIETY Bead For Life brings hope to thousands of impoverished Ugandan Women AFRICAN DOers Amel Ben Abda, first person in Tunisia to earn a PhD in Applied Mathematics TROPICS CHANGEMAKERS Meet Mr. Rakesh Wahi, a Serial Entrepreneur and a Lion TROPICS CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Tokie Laotan-Brown, Indigenous Architect and Cultural Economist SHOWBIZ Highlights from the Africa Magic Viewers Awards 2018 Red Carpet Gala WOMEN LEADERS Leading African Women Changing the Game TECHNOLOGY HASHTAG SOUTH AFRICA, the art of boosting Mandela’s country on social media TOURISM Meet Vanessa Mbenoun, the Cameroonian Tourism Entrepreneur capturing South Africa journeys INSPIRATION Nontutuzelo Sekhutleleng, a Change-Maker, an Author and successful Entrepreneur STYLE Every Woman Campaign by DOS Clothing Store BEAUTY Ex-Big Brother Housemates launch their eyelashes line VOGUISH The Jollof Collection will make you go wow! HEALTH NOTES 9 warning signs of cervical cancer you shouldn’t ignore

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TRENDING

South Sudan Surgeon Wins UN Prize for Treating War-Hit Refugees

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Evan Atar Adaha has been running Maban hospital since 2011. NAIROBI, Sept 25 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) — A South Sudanese surgeon, who has spent two decades helping the sick and injured in the wartorn east African nation, was on Tu e s d a y a n n o u n c e d t h e w i n n e r of a UN prize for treating tens of thousands of people forced to flee violence and persecution. Evan Atar Adaha — a 52-year-old doctor who runs the only hospital in northeastern Maban county — was given the 2018 Nansen Refugee Award for his “humanity and selflessness” where he often risked his safety to serve others, the UN said. “I feel very humbled. I hope this awa rd c a n h e l p d r aw a tt e n t i o n t o the plight of refugees especially here in Africa where they are often fo r g o tt e n a b o u t , ” A d a h a t old t h e Thomson Reuters Foundation in an

i n t e r v i e w. “ Yo u m a y h e a r a n d r e a d a b o u t them, but it’s only when you are face-to-face with people who have left everything and are sick with malaria, or are malnourished, or have a bullet wound that you realise how desperate the need for help is.” Nansen Refugee Awardees are recognised by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) for dedicating their time to help people forced from their homes. Former awardees include Eleanor Roosevelt and L u c i a n o Pava ro tt i . Wr i tt e n b y Ni t a B h a l l a

DIASPORA

Aliz é UTTERYN The 2018 #TropicsChangemakers Laureates by TROPICS MAGAZINE and TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT are a collection of the most effective business and social entrepreneurs on the planet. Ms. Aliz é UTTERYN is one of the Most Influential Leaders honoured this year throughout the 2nd annual Summit scheduled from 16 to 20 October 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the years, these laureates have continued to do amazing things. And so, it’s time to recognize the best of the best to drive the movement forward. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers... My name is Alizé Utteryn , 42 years old and I am a multi awards-winning Media Entrepreneur and international Business Consultant based in New York. Born in Cayenne (French Guiana/South America) and raised in Paris, Alizé is a graduate of Paris’ Superior Institute of Human Resources (ISGP) with a Master of Science Degree in Human Resources Management (Business Administration). I have an extensive and varied experience, which adds to my uniqueness: I am a multi-faceted Media Entrepreneur, an Artist, a Human Resources Specialist with experience working for various global companies. I am also a recognized Journalist and Member of the International Association of Press Photographers Inc., the Francophone Center of Press in New York and an accredited Journalist at the United Nations. I am a member of the U.S National Committee for UN Women, advocating for gender equality and the empowerment of women. My business role requires me to be the brain behind AlizéLaVie Media and the editorial Director of AlizéLaVie Magazine , an international multicultural bilingual magazine. Since May 2018, I am the newly appointed Vice President for Media & Public Affairs for United African Congress, the premier Pan African Umbrella Organization representing the interest of almost 8 million African Diaspora people and communities residing throughout the United States. Last but not least, since August 2018, I have been appointed the Media & PR manager for former Prime Deputy Minister Cynthia (Mother) Pratt of Bahamas and a Board Member of African Friends of United States Inc. 2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? I am a servant leader and visionary who breaks the rules to make a better world. Ì always think out of the box and always see the big picture. My work over the years has been very impactful while touching many people’s lives around the world. I left my comfort zone by taking risks to embark on my entrepreneurial pursuit 5 years ago starting with limited capital and realizing my dream to establish a well known international brand. Perseverance, passion and faith have been the keys to actualize my success. Helping people within the community by impacting people’s’ lives through my work by mentoring young girls and women. This has been my mission using all my mediums (magazine, media, brand) to those who need visibility by empowering them and inspiring them to be the best version of themselves and to bridge the gap between world communities. That is why I created Aliz é LaVie Magazine which is all about inspirational stories shared around the world to inspire and lift up others so that they can express themselves freely and show their skills to the world. I have challenged myself to work with others whose goal is to unite in our diversities regardless of our religion, ethnicity, culture, gender or sexual orientation, which is a powerful and uniting message overall. My vision inspires me to make a difference in the world by being the change I wish to see out there. I have the perspicacity and tenacity to succeed and it’s reflected in my work. Therefore in this sense, I believe I am a changemaker, and also an example for young women who aspire to become entrepreneurs in our global and interconnected communities.

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3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? As far as I am concerned Leadership means to be a good listener, adviser, servant and learning through experience. My goal as a Leader is to raise the bar for others and myself. Sharing my creative vision with others allows me to inspire and develop a common goal that directs the efforts and dedication of my entire team. A leader must learn to motivate a diverse team, to manage, and to take risks. He/she channels the energy and professional potential of their coworkers in order to achieve these objectives. A Leader is a servant at the service of the team, and not the other way around. And most importantly a Lader knows how to appreciate the individual values within the team and learn from them. In my daily task as leader I focus on my people because I care about them and most importantly respect them. I make sure the reflection of my work reflects on my people to reach a common goal. I am a very demanding Leader who wants to achieve great results, the best of the best is what I seek. I encourage my team to be the best version of themselves by overachieving. I have a very close relationship with each team member based on trust, loyalty, integrity and values. Anyone who works with me should understand these qualities for the sake of the team. I listen to my team members, strive to understand their concerns and solve their problems. I recognize my team for their efforts by giving them incentives. It doesn’t matter how small or big, it is the results that count. This empathy gets to inspire and establish links that will ultimately lead to success. I respect the creativity of my team members and learn from them also; their ideas are very

CEO & Founder of Aliz é LaVie Corporation important for me to move forward positively. I will voluntarily step back and let them take initiatives. In this way, my team feels acknowledged, encourage to achieve better results and gets a chance to develop, both personally and professionally. Moreover, I make sure on a daily basis I turn people on my team into stars. My team and I grow together. Without them, there is no Alizé. Teamwork makes the dream work. 4 . If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? If I were elected President of my own country French Guiana, I will make sure all of our young people and adults get education in underserved areas. I will develop self-improvement programs specially for our girls and help open a Women Center to take care of Women facing domestic violence, survivors of traumas who have lost hope and help them to get back on their feet. I believe in life again and something positive will happen. I would launch charity campaigns to raise money for homeless and drug-addicts often left out of society and help alleviate poverty. I will develop mandatory special youth programs to encourage entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills to shape our youth to become financially independent at an early age, and become the next generation of leaders. In addition I will create cultural youth centers where our young people can express and develop their talents. Last but not least, I will promote gender equality for salary, more representation of women in any area where women are still under-represented. 5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? My current state of mind about Africa and the Diaspora around the world (African descendants, Caribbean, and Latin countries), it is time to wake up, raise awareness of true black consciousness collectively and let’s be united. UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL! AND MOST OF THE TIMES WE FALL . If we (Diaspora) want to be successful, we need to support each other in business, work together hand in hand by getting involved in joint ventures to elevate our black men and women globally. We have been brainwashed since slavery “we were not good enough and seen as inferior beings…” We need to believe in ourselves, have more confidence in our people . Instead of thinking others (western world) will do better, we need to take control of our destiny. We are the sole masters of our own fate” In fact, only we can change the dynamic, break this psychological pattern. It has already started with Black Panthers movie, which has been a blockbuster around the world. Why? Because for the first time from production to casting, there were people who looked like us, those we can identify with! Having said so, it is also important to think globally not locally. Sticking together we can CONQUER the world and lift mountains. We just have to believe it, educate our people, which is a basic requirement, prepare and invest in them to leave a legacy for the next generations to become the best leaders! Let’s promote Black Excellence , BECAUSE YES WE CAN. LET’S DO IT WITH NO FURTHER ADO. 6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? Never give up. Do not just dream, but live your dreams. Dare to succeed; know how to take risk; live your life to the fullest, work hard and have faith, do not do things for money, but for passion. Keep in mind that anything is possible in life no matter where you come from. Once you believe it, especially believe in yourself and most importantly, be patient. Compete only with yourself; stay humble and true to yourself. Last, but not least, share your success with others by devoting your time to them in order to inspire them as well. Because if I have learned many things in life, it is by giving without expecting anything in return that you receive more blessings. “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE

Want to know what to read in the new year? Here are six books that will help you gain new skills, build better teams, and become an even better Want to know about some of the great business books coming out in 2018? I receive tons of advance copies from publishers and authors, and here are some of my favorites that will be released in the next few months.

BOOK WORMS

6 Great Business Books to Read in 2018 1. The Culture Code : The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups Daniel Coyle should be considered the Stephen King of practical, useful in everyday life (as opposed to “that was interesting, but what do I actually do with it?) non-fiction. Everything he writes is gold. The Culture Code is no exception. Dan went inside incredibly successful organizations like the San Antonio Spurs, Pixar, and SEAL Team Six to uncover three key skills that explain how diverse groups learn to function with a single mind. He shows that great teams don’t just have that special “something” -- they have leaders who intentionally build them into something great. 2. Brave Leadership: Unleash Your Most Confident, Powerful, and Authentic Self to Get the Results You Need Leading -- truly leading -- is hard. And intimidating. And stressful. That’s why so many people adopt some sort of leadership persona, in effect acting like we think leaders should behave. But if you want to be a great leader, you need to have the courage to be yourself. Kimberly shows you how to genuinely connect, to be genuinely influential, and how to truly lead people to get the results you -- and they -- need. 3. Big Potential: How Transforming the Pursuit of Success Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being Shawn is the king of personal happiness. (His bestseller, The Happiness Advantage, is great.) But personal happiness is also “Small Potential” -- a limited degree of success that we can achieve on our own. “Big Potential” is what we can achieve with other people. When you help others reach their goals, you can reach your goals -- and you can all be happier. Can’t beat that.

4. Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance It’s really easy to stop too soon. Your brain tells you that you’re too tired (mentally or physically) and that you’ve done enough. But you can always do more. As Alex writes, “the struggle to continue against a mounting desire to stop” is what endurance is all about -- and he provides endurance-boosting techniques that anyone can benefit from. Want to achieve more? Often that means you have to do more -- and Alex will show you how.

6. The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win If you want to accomplish something big -- or even something small -- and have been waiting for motivation to strike, this book is for you. Motivation isn’t something you get -- motivation is something you create, on your own, by following a process that allows you to improve, bit by bit. That means you already have everything inside you that you need to achieve your goals. You just need a process guaranteed to allow you to enjoy those small successes so that you get small, steady doses of motivation every day along your journey to success -- as well as to becoming whatever it is you hope to become. And I’ll show you how.

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5. The CEO Next Door: The 4 Behaviors That Transform Ordinary People into World-Class Leaders Elena Botelho and Powell sifted through a huge amount of data to uncover what makes a great CEO. It turns out that while the usual suspects like education and connections are important, what really matters is that great CEOs are decisive, reliable, deliver what they promise without exception, boldly adapt to changing conditions, and engage with stakeholders without avoiding conflict. And it turns out that many have failed along the way -- sometimes in a really big way.

CULTURE

Barthélémy Toguo at Parrish Art Museum Until October 2018, the Parrish Watermill Center. This unique

Mobile Cafeteria and Road to

Art Museum is presenting The

new collaboration between the Exile, adapted to the Parrish.

Beauty of Our Voice , a major solo

museum and the Watermill

show of French-Cameroonian

lead to this exhibition, on view Parrish’s

artist Barthélémy Toguo. The

from August 5 to October 14,

internationally renowned artist 2018. This

project

expands

This partnership reflects the to

Platform

present

mission

process-based

projects by a single artist who

addresses issues of migration,

his gaze to America. Selected considers the entire Museum

mobility,

pieces include new watercolor as a potential site for works

colonialism,

race,

and the relationship between paintings, photography from the global north in his multi- the disciplinary works.

series

Stupid

that

transcend

African boundaries,

disciplinary encouraging

President , postcards from new ways to experience art,

Granted the 2018 Inga Maren his international Head Above architecture, and the landscape. Otto Fellowship, Toguo has

Water project that involved his exhibition is supported by

created a comprehensive body Hamptons residents, and new the Cultural Services of the

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of work during a residency at The

versions of his installations French Embassy in the U.S.

we’re doing, but women who can afford diamonds and emeralds are just as excited about wearing these beads for their symbolism and for everything that’s behind them.” The beads’ one-of-a-kind colours and design come from recycled materials like magazines and cereal boxes, which the women cut into strips and roll. They’re sprayed with an eco-friendly sealant to make them pop and bring out the shine. “Everything we’re doing with the women makes the jewellery priceless,” says Rowell-Gastard. “It’s so much more than jewellery. The beads are a means to getting elsewhere. It’s like putting these women on a trampoline and sending them high into the air with their own ideas.” Bead for Life was born in 2004 when three American women, Torkin Wakefield, Ginny Jordan and Devin Hibbard, met Millie Grace Akena sitting outside her mud home rolling beads. From a small cottage industry to a major nonprofit and member of the World Fair Trade Organisation, Bead for Life now includes other entrepreneurial schemes as well as its trademark beading programme: http://www. beadforlife.org Written by Jordan Clary in Nevada

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An inspiring initiative in Uganda empowers women to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs by making eco-friendly beads that are the height of Fairtrade fashion. Beads have changed the lives of thousands of Ugandan women through Bead for Life, an organisation built around the core idea of empowering women to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs. Many women have been able to radically change their lives as a result of the programme. They have bought livestock, opened vegetable stands, furthered their education and purchased homes and property. The rigorous two-year training programme includes lessons in both bead-making and business practices. And the beads are, quite simply, stunning. In America, Bead for Life has spread its message - and beads - by volunteers hosting bead parties. Now, Bead for Life is breaking into the European market, mainly through Fairtrade jewellery and fashion retail shops. And many of these recycled paper beads are finding their way into high-end fashion. “Fairtrade is becoming a more and more common topic, even among luxury jewellers,” says Jennifer Rowell-Gastard, Bead for Life Europe Programme Manager. “Not only are people interested in what

SOCIETY

BEAD FOR LIFE BRINGS HOPE TO THOUSANDS OF IMPOVERISHED UGANDAN WOMEN

TROPICS VOICES

Phyllis MALOPE Cementing a Legacy!

“Be confident, but be careful to not confuse confidence with arrogance. To do this, you need to fully know what you are talking about.”

The 2018 #TropicsChangemakers Laureates by TROPICS MAGAZINE and TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT are a collection of the most effective business and social entrepreneurs on the planet. Mrs. Phyllis MALOPE is one of the Most Inﬂuential Leaders honoured this year throughout the 2nd annual Summit scheduled from 16 to 20 October 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the years, these laureates have continued to do amazing things. And so, it’s time to recognize the best of the best to drive the movement forward. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers... An Educator by profession; absorbed myself in the struggle to equality for all from an early age; taking up a role as an Educator in Soweto at the height of the Apartheid era of uprisings and protests against Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in South Africa. Mandisa Phyllis, married to the Mondlane family is a compassionate 64 year old mother and grandmother blessed with three children and fostering two children as her own. In 1985 for nearly a decade, I lectured at Soweto College of Education and produced several notable South African Cabinet Ministers, Professional Boxers, Artists and Policy-makers. My academic expedition contains: A Bachelor of Arts, Post Graduate Diploma in Education acquired at University of South Africa; Bachelor of Education acquired at the University of the Witwatersrand & Masters in Education from the University of Rand Afrikaans Universiteit. For me, learning and quest to knowledge has been life-long and has enhanced her profile by some professional courses from: Leeds University in the U.K. & Uppsala University in Germany; studying Community Development, Monitoring & Evaluation at the University of Pretoria, and an added course in Social Entrepreneurship from the University of Stellenbosch. All my credentials did not seem to give a meaningful and purposeful place in the corporate sector, thus for a decade, I have been at the helm of Philani Community Development Centre, a multi-pronged, integrated community development model; an award winning community development intervention that focuses on Early Childhood Development, Co-operative Incubation Hub, HIV/Aids Programme, HCT & Social Mobilisation Health Programme and Skills Development, and currently initiated the Young Women Skills Revolution Programme ensued from 2018; youth and women being the core focus due to their state of vulnerability in the townships. In tally with her directorship at Philani Community Development Centre, Phyllis holds several leadership roles in other recognized offices, these include; my being President of South African Congress of Non-Profit Organisations (SACONO), Chairperson of the South African Chapter at the Asia African Network of Caregivers and Children (AnoCC), Advisor to the National Development Agency – ECD Advisory Board and Chairperson of the West Rand NPO Coalition. I formed part of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women – UNCSW60 and UNCSW62, a delegation that represented South Africa under the auspice of the Ministry of Women.

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2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? “If no one tries to change things, things simply are never going to change.” We live in a world where change has become the biggest threat to those that are married to their comfort zone. I have always admired individuals willing to courageously stand up and make a difference in a world where it’s all too easy to remain in the security zones. Through personal experience, I have found that being a change-maker is challenging to say the least, as a willingness to take a leap of faith and stand out from the crowd makes you an

I recall being asked when I first made the decision to move to Zuurbekom, West Gauteng, South Africa, “Why would you want to get mixed up in that entire hopeless and forlorn township when you don’t have to?” I said in my reply; “if no one ever tries to change things, things simply are never going to change”. At that point I was considered by some to be naive and by others to have lost my senses of purpose and both remarks were probably accurate to some degree. However, I took a leap of faith and believed in my heart that my community would embrace an alternative approach, and after fifteen years as a Community Change-maker and Developer, I’m hopeful that most would say our city Zuurbekom, is a better place to call home. Allow me to share my strategy of the Being-SeeingDoing Approach about my lived experience: The Being: Refers to my own personal characteristics and qualities to achieve my goal The Doing: Is referred to specific skills and methods for creating change. And Seeing: Was my ability to make sense of, and reshape perceptions of reality. Whether it’s in business, government or any other sector, change-makers are simply a necessity that society can’t do without. Being a Change-maker will never be anything for the weak at heart. It takes time, discipline and a willingness to forego conventional wisdom in a way that most people could never imagine. Yet there’s nothing more important than taking an opportunity to become the change you want to see and committing yourself to being a Change-maker in whatever endeavor you undertake. With this in mind, here are five focus points I have learned through experience; these will help to initiate a positive change for the better with whatever you do. This I consider the changer maker social model: 1.) Bring a road map Change is never easy and if you can’t tell someone where it will lead them you will never be able to guide them in a new course; before you set out on a change making effort, always know the path and be able to provide the road map and the underpinning of where you’re headed. 2.) Always expect setbacks Overcoming a culture takes time and a great deal of patience and persistence; nothing happens overnight and you will undoubtedly have setbacks. That’s always to be expected and just remember to keep moving forward. Ignoring the subject of setbacks can introduce shock in the process of development. 3.) Always keep the high ground The ability to stand for something and to rise above the naysayers as opposed to simply standing against something sets you apart. An oppositional position to a new idea is easy while a positive position is much more difficult to maintain over time. Stay the course and continue a positive belief in the change you’re promoting. Many can start, but only a few can stay on course. 4.) Commit to the long haul Change will never come through moral platitudes or simple fixes. It takes time and a complete commitment to enacting it long beyond the timeframe you’ve ever imagined. A focus on planting seeds that will come to fruition long after you’ve set about fulfilling your ideals is a key to making it happen. Change is a subject of legacy and legacy is always achieved through planting meaningful and positive seeds. 5.) Always under promise and over deliver Great speeches about change for the better are enjoyable, but they always fail if they don’t deliver on their promise. As a Change-maker, believe in your role but also realize what you say matters and never exceed through words what you’re unable to exceed through actions. No one person can do anything alone and it will always take you to inspiring others to make an impact. In the end, being a Change-maker means being someone who’s able to inspire others, being able to adapt to the changes around you and being able to become the change you want to see happen. If you’ve undertaken an effort to implement positive change while setting a new direction for whatever situation you may find yourself in, I hope this story will help you in your own efforts. #Change-agents lived experiences

Visionary Leadership is inspiring in vision and helps others to see how they can contribute to this vision, allowing the leader and team to grow together towards a shared view of the future. This is coupled by Charismatic leaders who are noted for their ability to inspire and motivate followers to perform at high levels, and to be committed to the organisation. Key characteristics that inspire me are: 1. Good communicators with good communication skills 2. Chief Organizers are leading an activity and love an act of motivating a team to act towards achieving a common goal. He is the person in a group that possesses the combination of personality and leadership skills that makes others follow him willingly. 3. Risk Takers – My belief as a risk taker is that we can all create our own fortune by taking the necessary risks to open the door to change dreams into action. 4. Strategic Planners – Every leader must be a strategic planner. Strategic planning is important to an organisation because it provides a sense of direction and outlines measurable goals. This is a pillar tool that is useful for guiding day-to-day decisions. The planning assists the organisation and community to evaluate progress and change approaches where necessary. The process is normally over a Five year time frame with a mid-term evaluation process. Mid-term assessment speaks to performance monitoring on priorities, budget constraints and resources to accomplish developmental objectives that were set within the organisation. As a head of the organisation I entrust a responsibility to other Departmental Heads, who in turn assign duties to the Departmental Supervisors who must delegate duties to junior team members so as to free myself for more important tasks. Delegation should always be followed up to make sure that the task has been accomplished; in fact we use the term ‘follow-through to press on in an activity to a conclusion.” This is the greatest strategy especially when working with inexperienced young people who have no idea of the workplace principles. In my experience, success of an organisation is based on the above logic and balanced by principle of consistency and uniformity. 4. If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your inﬂuence to create opportunities for others? The ability to influence is one of the most essential skills for leaders at all levels. It is more of an art and it can be tough to get your arms around it, but the bottom line is that influence matters. I can divide my technique of influence into five different categories: 1. Asserting: I insist that my ideas are heard and I challenge the ideas of others. 2. Convincing: I put my ideas forward and offer logical rational reasons to convince others by my point of view. 3. Negotiating: I look for compromises and make concessions to reach an outcome that satisfies my greater interest. 4. Bridging: I network and build relationships to connect with others through listening, understanding and building coalitions. 5. Inspiring: I advocate my position and encourage others with the sense of shared purposes and exciting possibilities. In order to influence people and situations around me I feel that I would need to create the necessary platform and opportunities for others through the availability of services, literal and physical access to services and amenities, access to information, effectiveness of services, education, inequality in public education and employment. As a female President I will promote Leadership Skills to young women to gain the necessary skills to lead in an environment and to understand their importance in the society as they prepare themselves for greater possibilities in decision making, managing people and working in a team. The second hurdle as a female President that I would like to establish is entrepreneurship, in particular to develop young women in the understanding of business and provide them with real and practical experiences in running their own businesses to nurture them for the upliftment of the socio-economic transformation of South Africa. Finally I feel strongly that the lack of basic life skills for young women need to be developed. I will create a

platform that aid the learning of life skills and that seek to build a good foundation for self-development i.e. communication skills and problem solving skills In closure let us take into consideration that professionals and politicians should not assume that they know what a particular group might need. Although they usually do this with the best intentions I feel it is generally a bad idea to create interventions without at least consulting those for whom they are intended. People are more likely to folk to a programme that they see as relevant to their lives. I therefore would strive to communicate my vision, aim and targets clearly through my five influential categories as mentioned. As a female President I will develop young women to become future leaders and have power to lead with pride and knowledge. Nelson Mandela said, I quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world!”

TROPICS VOICES

What does a group of school children, truckers, and a Nobel Peace Prize winner from Bangladesh all have in common? Each is a change-maker – part of a growing movement that demonstrates how anyone, young or old, can make a difference from anywhere in the world. This statement is also echoed on the Nelson Mandela Day in South Africa, which is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. But the growing movement begs an important question, what exactly is a change-maker? One thing I certainly know is that the role of the change agent is critical in any transformation process. There is a need for common definition for “change-maker” so that it is easier to build shared community, create resources that can help anyone become a change-maker, and measure progress towards nurturing and inspiring others.

3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? Leadership to my knowledge is an approach providing direction, implementing plans and inﬂuence people to a collected vision. Among leadership styles that I have learnt of, Visionary Leadership has a great inﬂuence and impact on my daily activities within the organisation.

5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/ or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? This discourse will be based on the International Relations, which is the study of interconnectedness of politics, economics and law on a global level. The discussion will focus on issues such as globalisation, international security, nationalism, global finance and human rights. Firstly, the world has increasingly become one global village as it is easy now to share information and travel to various parts of the world. It is easy to share information through a lot of mediums of communication. Traditionally we used to rely on print media and television in the past for dissemination of information but now of late social media has made information to be at our fingertips. It does not take long for information to be shared globally within seconds of events taking place. Information is easily and effortlessly shared in the world whether positive or negative. So it is now easy to mobilise communities on social, economic, political issues. It can however be argued that there is still a bias when responding to global issues such as terrorism, poverty, illiteracy, hurricanes and other natural disasters. When such events affect the more developed western world such as Europe and North America, the reaction and support from the international community and states is very swift and comprehensive compared to when such events take place in less developed continents such as Africa and Asia. Whilst it has become easy to share information through various platforms (mediums of communication), fake news have infiltrated these platforms and as such we should be very careful and verify the veracity of the information we share before we disseminate to other people for public consumption. This is so because the criminal element has taken over in the form of terrorists who use the very same platforms for their operations such as recruitment of staff/soldiers, money laundering, and human trafficking. Moreover, advertisement scammers are swindling money from vulnerable and unsuspecting members of the communities. Secondly, international security which refers to the concerted efforts and amalgamation of measures undertaken by sovereign countries and international organisations to ensure mutual survival and safety of the world is imperative. However it should be noted that Organisations such as the United Nations have not transformed since 1945, there are 5 permanent members of the Security Council, namely, United States of America, United Kingdom, People’s Republic of China, Russia and France. The permanent members are supported by non-permanent member countries which are usually elected for a 2 year term by the General Assembly. The bone of contention is that the number of the permanent members of the Security Council should be increased to reflect the demographics of the Countries in the world and more countries from the developing world should be afforded the same opportunities of assuming leadership positions in the global world. Traditionally United States of America, France and United Kingdom have always supported one another during voting on burning security issues whilst China and Russia have been on the opposing side. United States of America has always enjoyed the hegemonic status as the superpower but with the advent of President Donald Trump taking over the reins after the 2016 National US elections, the reach and influence of America on global issues has somewhat diminished as Mr. Trump has changed the Foreign Policy and focus. USA has adopted the approach of protectionism; putting the needs USA first before international community and it has also become difficult to negotiate with USA when coming to international issues. Furthermore, USA has decreased its financial support for institutions such as FAO, WHO, UNESCO, UNDP, UNICEF and UNHCR. The little support of these institutions by USA means that their global reach in terms of their mandate has been negatively affected which has then affected the developing countries’ attempts to achieve good results relating to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. What has also compounded matters is that Britain has also dropped the ball as its main focus currently is the BREXIT; Britain had a referendum to leave European

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easy and convenient target for those who would prefer to adhere to the status quo.

TROPICS VOICES

Union as the member, so this is part of their domestic politics right now and it has become a protracted issue which means Britain’s global influence and reach has somehow being compromised. Also it has been argued that USA has threatened to cut its financial support to countries which are not supporting it in the Security Council by cutting its support through USAID, PERFAR and CANCER Programme; the opposition in the US has argued that the White House has redirected the funds to support the controversial programme of detaining foreign nationals who enter US illegally On the other hand, African Union is a toothless dog which is not able to advocate for African Development and emancipation. Well, relatively there has been some developments which have taken place in the African Continent since the formation of the Organisation of African Unity, e.g coups détat have decreased, minimal co-operation in security issues, all countries have been freed from Colonial Masters but because of the foreign debt some people feel that Africa is still not free. To add more, Africa has the oldest Presidents in power when compared to presidents in other continents; so this means that there is no succession plan as young people are not integrated in Leadership structures. AU is riddled with divisions and factions as the 54 member state do not support one another because of the colonial history. For example, we have English speaking countries which are commonly known as Anglophone Africa, French speaking countries (Francophone Africa), Portuguese Speaking countries (Lusophone Africa), countries which were colonised by Belgium and the Arab League. There is no honest co-operation in terms of developmental goals, for example, recently the AU Commission was chaired by Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma from Southern Africa in particular South Africa and there was a minimal support by Francophone Africa as there was an infighting for positions. The disunity of Africa is even reflected under Confederation of African Football (CAF) whereby it is argued that West African teams and North African soccer teams receive preferential treatment from CAF and its match referees whereas soccer teams from Southern Africa and East Africa are treated badly during soccer matches. Moreover, AU is not vocal enough in issues affecting Africa, for example, there is an ethnic war currently taking place in Cameroon between the English Speaking residents and the French Speaking residents which has not been resolved by the government and AU has not made enough intervention efforts. In the economic front, People’s Republic of China has monopolised Africa when it comes to Infrastructure development. There is a dissenting view that China is exploiting Africa as it is argued that China puts development first before the wellbeing of the people; many people will be employed but they will get little pay. China has influence over Africa through structures such as BRICS and Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. The economic warfare between USA and China is negatively affecting the developing countries as there is no stability in the financial markets. In addition, Africa should have a common language which will be spoken in most countries to facilitate communication when trading and doing tourism. The usage and teaching of SWAHILI in many African countries should be fast tracked to consolidate the political, economic and cultural integration. Eventhough this will not be achieved overnight as there are many dialects (about 2 000) spoken in Africa, but the political will should be there, because there is a way where there is a will. The AU should speedily implement The African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) initiative. Lastly, what is needed in my community is coordinated efforts regarding development of the community. For example, the Integrated Development Plans should be implemented as envisaged by the Politicians, government officials and the community members. The resources especially money intended to fund projects which are meant to empower the community should be used properly, monitoring and evaluation should be done by various structures. The local entrepreneurs should be given tenders and be capacitated to undertake developmental projects in their areas. Active citizenry regarding economic, political and social issues affecting the community. We need vibrant forums; ECD Forum, NPO Forum, FBO Forum and the Business Forum. The Departments of government should be visible in the communities, taking services to the communities – regular outreach programmes, community imbizos.

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6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your ﬁnal message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? As an Educationalist and a Community Developer, my 18 ﬁnal messages to Young Leaders, in order to follow in my footsteps, would be as follows: 1.Be confident, but be careful to not confuse confidence with arrogance. To do this, you need to fully know what you are talking about. When you do speak, speak with conviction.

2.“Leadership is about vision. It’s about giving new or original perspectives to things. One who has his own understanding and interpretation of things will distinguish himself from others. Thinking for yourself implies not taking anything for a fact. Always look for a personal explanation or interpretation. In order to gain that personal distance and understanding, one should never rely on others knowledge, work or judgment.” “Inspire others to take action by showing your own action, commitment and good work for a better world. 3.Make it easy for people to step in and join forces if they want to help.” 4.“Be ambitious and do not be afraid to take risks.” Do not be afraid to be idealistic. If you happen to fail, you will recognize your strengths and limitations and be better to adapt in the future. Only by knowing your limit can you fully maximize your potential. Of course, the scope of your limit will lessen over time through experience. 5.Never let someone tell you that you cannot do something. If something isn’t out there, go create it. 6.Be organized. In order to work effectively, you will need to be organized. If you are disorganized, you will tend to forget certain things. 7.Be able to articulate your thoughts and speech thoroughly and efficiently (a.k.a. communication skills). This also includes being able to delegate tasks and being clear of your expectations. 8.Be able to establish your goals and commit to your plan. “Sometimes structure, deadlines, and plans aren’t the best way to lead. At times, it is more effective to go with the flow, take it as it comes and explore each new opportunity. But, despite this, you always need to keep in mind your end game, your objective, “Be patient with your goals. Go on your own timeline.” 9.“Make sure your project, campaign or endeavour solves a problem and you that have clearly defined what the problem is and how you are going to solve it.” 10.Know the strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your team. Being a leader does not always mean that you are the most intelligent or capable person within a group. It just means that you have an ability to organize people and are able to utilize each person’s skill set. “Leading isn’t an easy task — not everyone can do it. I believe if you are truly passionate about the area you are leading in, not only will you be a successful leader, but there is no end to what you can do. Nothing material can slow you down, only your passion will drive you.” 11.Be fair. To gain the trust and respect of your followers, you need to be fair. If an opportunity comes up, do not automatically look to your close friends or colleagues. Let everyone know and have the same chance to get whatever it is. 12.Be clever. If something does not work out, try an alternative method. If you do not have enough resources for a project, look in your community to see if it can be easily donated or lent to you. Being clever, in this case, means that you go partner with a student organization and have them reserve a room for you. 13.Be optimistic. After all, optimism is what is needed to change the way this world works. “What you expect tends to happen” 14.Remember that you are young. Be energetic! Personally, I try not to act so serious all the time. Recognize that you are still young and embrace all that your prime has to offer for you. 15.Connect! Strive to make a vast and diverse network of friends and colleagues. You will never know when a person will become handy. I have created a support system through my peers and colleagues. Everyone benefits from a big network. If you want to network with someone you do not know, just introduce yourself through a message and add them anyway. 16.Know when to give “the talk,” and do give it when it is necessary. If a member of your team volunteers for a task or have accepted a task delegated by you, they are making a commitment to execute it. Sometimes there are valid reasons that prevent a person from completing their duties and in those cases, you have to accept it when they happen. I do not hesitate to be frank with someone if I had already made my expectations clear or if their failure to complete a task will (or have) hinder the entire team. 17.Have a right-hand man (or woman). This is a go-to person that you trust. 18.“Know when to listen to others, and when to listen only to yourself.” Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE

AFRICAN DOERS

Amel Ben Abda First person in Tunisia to earn a PhD in Applied Mathematics Amel Ben Abda decided early on to commit to a lifelong career in mathematics. Now, she wears several hats. On one front, the Tunisia-born STEM role model is a university professor and lecturer with a career spanning more than 20 years. The National Engineering School of Tunis (ENIT) professor studied at the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis and ENIT, walking away with upper level degrees in Fundamental Mathematics and Applied Mechanics. Even more notably, she defended the first Tunisian theses in Applied Mathematics, PhD. She also wears the hat of an avid researcher, having contributed to scholarly reports on myriad topics within the mathematics space. Recently she has been exploring topics such as solvability issues and topology optimization methods, and missing boundary data recovery using Nash games. Her most popular co-written articles brought in more than 100 citations and dissected topics that apply to mechanics, hydrogeology, and more. Ben Abda currently sits on the advisory board for the Tunisian Woman Mathematician Association, and is a Representative of Tunisia in the Steering Committee of LIRIMA.

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It is her sincere hope that post-revolution Tunisia will eventually provide more opportunities for scientific research by encouraging doctoral studies, figure out ways to attract more candidates with funding, and overall, improve the quality of the training.

TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT

Rakesh WAHI

Founder of ABN Group, a mediaholding company for CNBCAfrica and Forbes Africa

The 2018 #TropicsChangemakers Laureates by TROPICS MAGAZINE and TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT are a collection of the most effective business and social entrepreneurs on the planet. Mr. Rakesh WAHI is one of the Most Influential Leaders honoured this year throughout the 2nd annual Summit scheduled from 16 to 20 October 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the years, these laureates have continued to do amazing things. And so, it’s time to recognize the best of the best to drive the movement forward. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers... My name is Capt (Dr) Rakesh Wahi, VSM (Retd). I started my career with the Indian Army Corps of Engineers in 1980. During my military career I served with an Infantry Division and an Armoured Division and in 1987 established India’s second base at the Antarctic. After leaving the Military in 1988, I have spent the last 30 years buildingbusinesses in emerging markets having worked in the CIS, Middle East in Africa. We today have investments in 3 verticals; IT (Microsoft partner in 7 countries in Asia), Media (CNBC Africa & Forbes Africa) and Education (Murdoch University Dubai, Curtin University Dubai, Lancaster University Ghana and ABN Training Institute). As a Group we have investments in 22 Countries and employ about 1500 people. We have a strong focus on social development and through the ABN Education Trust, we support orphanages, destitute women, children from disadvantaged families and bursaries for tertiary education. In 2016, I published my memoires “Be a Lion”, published by Penguin South Africa. 2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? At a conceptual level, we have been one of the greatest catalysts for changes in the perception of the African country. In the last 11 years we have worked to change the narrative from a continent of gloom to a continent of hope. We have talked about opportunities and showcased Africa as a land of opportunity and of skilled and capable people wanting to make a difference in their lives. In the education sector we are the first company that has been able to bring a top British University in an offshore partnership into Africa. African students today can get a top British degree in Ghana at one third of the cost. This is a game changer for education on the continent. The greatest change is in the investment philosophy that I have engrained in my team and family; this is about long-term investments and wealth creation and not immediate financial returns. Long term investments will bring the development needed. Equality is a Living Value for our Group; not the talk but by ensuring that we became an equal opportunity employer. In Africa, over 50 percent of our staff, 60 percent of senior management and 40 percent of our Board are women. Finally, since our industries are going through dramatic change, we have made changes in processes to streamline operations and gear up for the future and move away from models of the past. 3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? Leadership is having a vision, getting the right resources (man, material and money), setting clear goals, giving autonomy with accountability and operating with ethics in every aspect of the business and personal conduct. The only way you can lead is walk the talk each day of your life. 4. If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? Social development is a key requirement for all emerging economies. The greatest need is to provide education to everyone and make sure that you empower people to earn a living and have the ability to make well informed and educated choices

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in all that they do. 5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? I am a born optimist and believe that despite challenges the best has yet to come in Africa, in other emerging markets and in the developed world. There is going to be continued interest in investing into Africa to take advantage of the stage of infancy of the continent. These opportunities require proper legislation and consistency in policy. The first step therefore is to use the right influence to create an environment that is fair and consistent.

The second is to create a workforce that is skilled and indigenous which is a joint action point from the government and the private sector to look at jobs of the future and make sure that capacity building is a priority. The third is to work with the financial institutions in the development of models of funding for small and medium enterprises so that economic activity is catalysed, and job creation takes place. The greatest change needed in communities is to create opportunities for people to help others. Finally, there is a need to improve inequality which is not just the responsibility of the government. Every hour spent, or every dollar contributed towards helping others is priceless especially towards women and children that are destitute. 6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? This is a reality of our time. Engaging youth is a necessity and a living value. New management philosophies like Holacracy are becoming important where organization structures are linear and a lot more autonomy, with accountability, is given to frontline managers. For young leaders I have one message. Follow your dreams. Dream big and then work hard to actualize the dreams. Think long-term. Keep your word to all stakeholders; that will be your only currency in life. Don’t feel disheartened when you fail; it’s a path to success. First achieve success and then focus on material things. Money is a derivative of success and not an end in itself or the other way around. The end is in building something that is sustainable, long term and that helps improve the lives of others. Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE

Indigenous Architect & Cultural Economist

Tokie is a Treasurer for the Executive Committee for the Association Critical Heritage Studies. An associate member of International Network of Traditional Building Architecture & Urbanism (INTBAU), Construction Industry of Builders (CIOB) in Ireland, Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologist (CIAT) UK and UK-Green Building Council. A contributing Member on the ISCCL ( International Scientific Committee on Cultural Landscapes) and represents Nigeria and Ireland on ICOMOS-IFLA. Tokie also works as an Indigenous Architect and Cultural Economist with Merging Ecologies. Co-Founder and Women-led, Tea Group Ltd, which maintains a bespoke sustainable and heritage infused design development solutions globally. She has also been the Treasurer for the BBEIG (Buy Black Economic Investment Group) for 4 years. A Joint PhD research in Economics and Techniques in the Conservation of Architectural and Environmental Heritage with the University of Nova Gorica and Universita Iuav di Venezia in Italy. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers... Hi Everyone! My name is Dr.Tokie Laotan- Brown and I am an indigenous Architect and cultural economist. What does that mean? Well it means that my architectural designs or construction developments like the one I am currently working on in Cape Verde has elements of indigenous heritage particular to a region infused in the Architecture or within its cultural landscape. This means I take in all the ecological, economical, social and indigenous cultural of a place and infuse this into a development or design. As for cultural economics, I infuse economical outcomes with cultural heritage through shared belief systems and produce shared interest amongst stakeholders. 2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? I never set out on many of my projects to be a Change-maker. I am driven by a need to protect the African heritage and conserve the remarkable works of our ancestors within the shores of our beloved continent and in the diaspora. I think this is why I focused more on indigenous heritage within architecture and specialised in conservation of buildings. With New Builds I developed the idea of infusing indigenous heritage and culture into the essence of the buildings. In a time and age where we are losing our links to language, culture and sense of identity by being mostly in the diaspora, it has become more evident to secure and preserve the disappearing elements of our visual and sensoral heritage for the next generation. 3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? Leadership means servitude. It means continual service to the work at hand, always taking initiative and bringing a community with me on this journey. No one is an Island. As an African, no job can be done alone, trusting in my community that everyone has a job to do and will do it to the best of their ability. Understanding that everyone may have a shared vision but not the capacity to deliver and that is okay. The few that can deliver, working to make sure that it will eventually be of benefit to the wider community. In my daily tasks, a win-win situation is always key. Making sure I understand that whatever I do, I think of a win-win element for everyone involved according to what their idea of a win-win situation is for them and not what I think might be their idea of a win-win situation. For instance, someone might just be content with just taking part in an initiative and making their money while someone else might be looking for longer term benefits working on the same project. And that is okay too. 4. If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? If I was President! Wow, that is a big one. If I was President, Social responsibility will be the cornerstone of my government. Being socially responsible means that a Government takes social considerations into account in its methodologies. Responsible considerations are incorporated into different parts and in various stages of obligations. Moreover, constraints from economic obligations, drive policy implementations and cost efficiency in being socially responsible. This ensures that government can examine how and in which social considerations could be incorporated to the greatest value and with the highest impact. How I can use social

responsibility to help create opportunities through procurement is by: Stakeholders like investors, business partners, vendors, employees, government, communities and customers all play vital roles in actively demanding either rewards or disciplines of all sectors on how successful they are at balancing their areas and at what costs Priority in addressing the role procurement plays in its societal goals and the implications of these goals either positively or negatively. * Business or government contracts ensure the commitment to manage effectively socially responsible procurements, thus enhancing and protecting business or governmental developments. * Risk analysis is incorporated to business/government contract procurement strategy where issues of social responsibility is established in the contract award stage or during the contract period. * Delegation of internal responsibilities and tasks associated with socially responsible procurement to ensure accountability and transparency. * Set targets that monitor the societal impacts of responsible procurement. * Produce best practice results on socially responsible procurement. The procurement strategy will highlight the business/government contract for social considerations (for example protecting human rights) and this will prioritise more extensive goals. Open for transparent monitoring and implementation, thereby creating a feedback loop. 5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? My current state of mind regarding Africa, is the need to change Mindsets! That we are self-sufficient and that we are all we need and are more than enough to change the dynamics of the current situation in Africa. If we all put our minds to it, work on self-sufficiency and stop the crab barrel effect and really be our brothers and sisters’ keeper in the real sense of the phrase, we can effect change. We all know what Susu economics is, crowdfunding etc. We can develop projects as communities within our localities and effect change from the grassroots. Mobilise and remove governments that do not work in our interest. Stop the sale of votes to corrupt leaders and begin to train and allow the fresh minds to enter government offices with the interest of the people. To unlock the change in my community, my first priority is to Women. I truly believe that everyone including Men can empower themselves. What is lacking is the tools, economic drive and the know-how to achieve it.This can be achieved by introducing tools, training and funding to drive initiatives. For example my initiative, Women Fund Homes, helps with providing training and tools on how to bring women as a group to come together to buy properties within their localities and improve passive incomes. This allows them to be self-sufficient, create passive income to fund other projects they may be interested in. 6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? Consistency is key, young leaders of today and tomorrow must be willing to be flexible, because the essence of your strength is to adjust to whatever is going on around you. Be ready to unlearn and relearn what you think you know. Failures and mistakes are necessary for growth. Building on self constantly for a new you to emerge; like a diamond, you are many faucets and each of those faucets is meant to tackle different chapters of your existence. Most importantly accept all your weaknesses as well as your strengths as they are all you and let your tribe or community help where you are weak as this symbolises your true essence as a leader. For more information, please browse our websites… www.tokielaotanbrown.com www.womenfundhomes.com www.teagroupltd.co.uk Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE.

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TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT

Dr. Tokie LAOTAN-BROWN

TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT

Sylvere CJ YOUMBAH

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he 2018 #TropicsChangemakers Laureates by TROPICS MAGAZINE and TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT are a collection of the most effective business and social entrepreneurs on the planet. Mr. Sylvere CJ YOUMBAH is one of the Most Influential Leaders honoured this year throughout the 2nd annual Summit scheduled from 16 to 20 October 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the years, these laureates have continued to do amazing things. And so, it’s time to recognize the best of the best to drive the movement forward. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers... I’m Sylvere CJ Youmbah, a cofounder of MERITS INVESTMENT GROUP (PTY) LTD and co-organizer of the TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT. The MERITS GROUP is an emerging company based in Pretoria, South Africa, and active in four sectors: executive transport and concierge services, under the label Mzansi Executive Rides and Tailored Services ; branding under Back to Branding ; digital advertising under Africa Ads & News Network ( Afric.A.N ) and markets development under the brand African Synergies. The group is managed by my eldest daughter, Ms Blessing Sibanda. Although I’m not operationally involved in the daily business of the company, I remain a mentor and love to define myself as a Chief Genius Officer. 2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? I am an unconditional afro-optimist. Being a solutionsdriven person, I strongly believe it should take an African mind to solve an African problem. Africa will develop faster if the Children of this beautiful land start seeing themselves more as tools of that development and less as fools. I see myself as one of the various sparkles which expand the bushfire of self-empowerment on the continent, through various enterprises, mentorship or daily motivation... The Merits Investment Group and the Tropics Business Summit are just two of my many initiatives. I’m a naturally born Afro-visionary. 3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? To me leadership is about people. It’s about our intrinsic capacity to productively inspire and unite people around a common goal, for the greater good of all. Leadership, it’s “Ubuntu” before anything else. I live by that idea. 4. If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? I believe that the young people of Africa have the mind

CoFounder of MERiTS INVESTMENT GROUP

power to change this Continent into an integrated, prosperous and peaceful space. They got the vision, they got the genius, they got the passion and they got the will to make it happen. I will therefore put an emphasis on implementing initiatives intended to solve the basic challenges faced by Afropreneurs in many countries. Amongst other things: mentorship programs for issues of skill development; an adequate regulatory framework for SMEs; an easy and affordable access to working spaces, internet and technologies ; a relevant funding solutions… 5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/ or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? Africa is positively changing, it’s undeniable. We are confidently taking our seat on the global stage. In different parts of the Continent afro-bees are at work to solve problems which were seen yesterday as daunting challenges. Urbanisation, agriculture, industrialization, digital revolution and other global evolutions are given opportunities, for Afropreneurs, to materialize their genius and change the face of the Continent. The Tropics Business Summit is a good example of that revolution of mind. You need to watch the space for more. 6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? Empowerment starts with self-empowerment. Set your mind to the right channel and take charge of you destiny. Everything else will fall into place. Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE.

Carry FILS-AIME CEO & Founder of Agro Karib S.A. & Investors Relations Specialist

Ms. Carry FILS-AIME is one of the Most Influential Leaders honoured this year throughout the 2nd annual Summit scheduled from 16 to 20 October 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the years, these laureates have continued to do amazing things. And so, it’s time to recognize the best of the best to drive the movement forward. 1. Please introduce yourself to our TROPICS MAGAZINE readers… My name is Carry Fils-Aime and I am humbled to be nominated as a Tropics Change Maker. I am certain that this international recognition will strengthen my conviction and will serve as an inspiration to other thriving leaders. Born and raised in Haiti, I immigrated to the US and came back three years ago to launch my first initiative called the “Le Sel Foundation”, an organization which aims to bring awareness about Iodine Deficiency Disorder, a disease that had affected millions of lives in Haiti. Now I am the CEO and co-founder of Agro Karib S.A, an agribusiness company, dedicated to fight hidden hunger and find access to new markets for local crops. 2. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? My goal was always to bridge the gap in education that exist in Haiti. I have dedicated hours of mentorship and teaching to young leaders. Therefore, I have used my voice to empower the youth in my community in helping them see the world through their own lens and not in that of others. For this reason, I joined a group of friends whom were also committed to make positive impact in the country. So, in 2016, we partnered up with TechStars and introduced a Startup Week chapter in Haiti which is a series of workshop on Technology, Education, Leadership, Business, Fashion, Branding, etc. and we are now on the 3rd edition. Through this initiative I have seen the growth of the participants over the years. Some participants are now established business owners, coaches or mentors. One of my mentees is currently incubating his project at the Hult Prize Castle in London and will be pitching for a million dollar at the UN during the General Assembly early October. The success stories are incredible. We are building a real ecosystem of entrepreneurship in the country. I have been recently chosen to be part of the selective Scale Up Haiti team which has the ambitious mission to build micro ecosystems dedicated to growth. Under the leadership of renowned professor Daniel Isenberg, I am dedicated to work with SMEs and other local stakeholders to help businesses scale up in my country which will have direct impact on the fragile economy. I believe that a Change Maker is someone that has used her influence to impact the lives of others and I have done just that in any way I possibly could. 3. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily tasks? To me leadership is about service. And, effortlessly, I serve others in any capacity I have. Whether it is offering my service reviewing a resume for someone looking for a job, helping an acquaintance exploring and focusing on career choices, or coaching groups of young entrepreneurs in business skills. Over the last two years, I have mentored more than 100 people through programs like Port-au-Prince Startup Week, the Zahn Competition in New York, as well as global initiatives like the Diamond Challenge, the Creative Business Cup and the Hult Prize. Some of my mentees are going to places like Denmark, New York and England to participate in highly competitive global business contests and are developing projects that will have impact on more than one million people. As I was writing this interview, I received an inspiring text from a smart young woman whom I had an opportunity to mentor. In her message she told me that she got her dream job and she thanked me for

giving her sound advice that she had followed. Those warm testimonies like this one is what motivates me to keep on empowering others. 4. If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? Influence is just an outcome of good quality relationships. And as an Entrepreneur, strong relationships with my strategic partners, clients and staff is at the core of my business model. I have the proven ability to connect people, whom have different opinions and/or different belief system, together. So if I were to be the President of Haiti, I will use those skills I have mastered to get people from different sectors and social statuses to communicate to each other and find common ground that could be used as a basis for maintaining peace, as well as to commit to engage in a national dialogue in an effort to create opportunities and change the country’s image. I will also use my influence to create a proper environment for effective and just governance. My priorities would be to invest in the well-being of my people through education, access to healthcare, infrastructure building, peace-building and environmental preservation; and promoting sustainable economic freedom through policies that foster enterprise and entrepreneurship. 5. What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? I believe that where the challenges are greater, the opportunities are also greater. Therefore, I moved back to my home country, leaving behind a much better quality of life in the US, to embrace the challenges in Haiti and fight for change. As a woman of African descent growing up in the 90’s, my earliest memory of Africa was about poverty and AIDS which were symbols of a human failure. As I grew up, the misconception of a continent of poverty also grew. I remained positive that one day Africa could thrive like any other part of the world. And after meeting Africans from South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon with whom I became friends, I saw a different perspective but, still, I wondered why there is so much misery and poverty if such great minds live in Africa. That thought resonated with our situation in Haiti which is a country full of hardworkers, blessed with natural resources, yet a very poor and struggling country. Today when I heard that Africa has been branded as the continent of the future for its opportunities, I could not be prouder as I believe any success-story in Africa will have a positive impact in Haiti and within black communities around the world. As Africa’s struggles in the 90’s had defined blackness, I see that Africa’s success should be used to change the narrative around blackness. The growing leadership in Africa is inspiring. Stories like South Africa, Rwanda and other emerging economies across the continent will continue to impact the world as it demonstrates clearly that Africa is a resilient place and Africans are amazing and brilliant. My mission is to be an Ambassador of Entrepreneurship. I want to inspire as many black men and women that I possibly could. Inspired by stories of resilience in Africa, I will continue to push for social justice and for a world with opportunity for all irrespective of skin color. I am never shy to instill in the mind of my mentees the necessity to have an entrepreneurial mindset in whatever they do. I am unlocking change in my community in the hope that an entrepreneurial attitude will, one day, become the norm. 6. The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? To all young leaders from Africa and around the world please step up! Identify something that should change whether it is a social cause, a political cause and so forth. Once you find that cause, embrace it, make it personal, and reach out to others to rally around your cause and with that community to fight for it in a spirit of togetherness. Though it will be challenging but a cause fought together has a greater chance to succeed just because WE ARE ALWAYS STRONGER TOGETHER. Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot for TROPICS MAGAZINE

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he 2018 #TropicsChangemakers Laureates by TROPICS MAGAZINE and TROPICS BUSINESS SUMMIT are a collection of the most effective business and social entrepreneurs on the planet.

SHOWBIZ

AFRICA MAGIC VIEWERS CHOICE AWARDS 2018 RED CARPET GLAM #AMVCA2018

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The Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards has quickly become possibly the most glamorous and flamboyant night on the Nigerian social calendar with our favorite celebrities stepping out dressed to the T. This year was no different and when the stars shone bright on the red carpet at the #AMVCA2018, we were right there to capture all the beauty.

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SHOWBIZ

WOMEN LEADERS

Leading African Women Changing The Game Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 200 million people between the ages of 15 and 24. According to the World Bank, youth account for 60 percent of all unemployed people on the continent, with young women bearing the sting of unemployment as young men are favoured for jobs. Instead of succumbing to fear of these statistics, many young people have taken the entrepreneurship route, turning problems that they encounter in their communities into solution-orientated businesses. Stop waiting around for the career--and life--that you deserve and start taking the reins! Leading Africa Women show you how to claim power and respect, conquer your internal barriers, and change the world by helping other women do the same. With the guidance of these influential, resourceful leaders who look just like you, you’ll maximize your personal power, exceed your business goals, and establish a network designed to support and celebrate your fellow women.

SEMHAR ARAIA (Activism) Native New Yorker and head of Diaspora Partnerships at UNICEF USA, Semhar Araia has been professionally uplifting, empowering and working with communities who want to make a difference around the world for the past 15 years. But her upbringing informed her career path well before she got her working papers. “My parents came to this country in 1967 as one of the first group of African students to arrive in the United States,” she recounts. “Like so many other international students, they were expected to return home after their studies to help our family and the country. But when Eritrea’s war for independence from Ethiopia intensified, they couldn’t return home and our lives became a blend of professional and academic rigor by day, and grassroots and community organizing for the cause by night. Eventually, it all became one shared mission and way of life—the love of country and family from the diaspora.” Araia’s love for diaspora engagement and partnerships runs deep, and her biggest goal last year was to create a new model of that engagement for UNICEF USA. She’s worked with Somali, Ethiopian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Haitian , Arab and African-American organizations and communities to help children in their homelands. Still, she acknowledges that there is much more work to be done. “We have so much to offer, we just need more pathways and partnerships to do so. I want the African Diaspora to own its social, economic and cultural power—including through policy, advocacy and philanthropy.” Luckily, she’s relentless. Right now she is revamping the Diaspora African Women’s Network (DAWN), an organization she started in 2007, while exploring additional ways to support black professional women who work on international issues at all points of their careers. “It’s clear that Africa’s future lies in the hands of its leaders on the continent and in the Diaspora,” she says. “Whether we are recognized or not, we know women are at the helm of that process and deserve to be recognized, supported and elevated.” Thus, her work on building that community. “To me, building community is a way of life and for African women, sisterhood and solidarity is everything.”

KAH WALLA (Politics & Activism)

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Edith Kahbang Walla was always committed to advancing the continent of Africa. For that reason, she returned to her native Cameroon to start her career after studying in the United States at Howard University. “I’m very connected to my country, I’m connected to my family, and I knew that whatever business I did or contribution I was going to make, it had to have an impact on the larger community,” she explains to Vital Voices Global Partnership. True to her word, all of her career endeavors have been in the interest of her country. As an entrepreneur she’s marked achievements in the areas of strategy and organizational development for African institutions and local governments, facilitating international conferences on African development issues, economic improvement, gender equity, employment and entrepreneurship. As a political leader, she has advocated for change via the United States Cameroonian embassy in Washington D.C. during her college years, been a key advisor to the main opposition party of Cameroon, Social Democratic Front (SDF), and served on the municipal council of the city of Douala. As a social activist, she’s led the Cameroon Gender and Development Network as president, founded a citizenship movement called Cameroon Ô’Bosso that introduces special interest groups to national policy making and is a founding member of the Women Entrepreneurs of Cameroon. She wants, simply, for Cameroonians to excel, and the issue in her eyes, is leadership. “We don’t have a lack of resources. We don’t have a lack of capacity. We have a very strong deficiency in leadership; in good, strong leadership,” she tells Vital Voices. Walla’s leadership has been recognized worldwide; in 2007 by World Bank as one of seven women entrepreneurs working to enhance Africa’s business environment, in 2010 by Newsweek as one of 150 women who shake the world, and in 2011 with a Vital Voices Global Leadership Award. Although her presidential run that year ended in defeat (Walla came in sixth out of 23 candidates), she continues to lead and inspire others to lead. As the Founder and CEO of Strategies! Leadership and Management consulting firm, she invests in women leaders with her time and expertise.

WOMEN FASHION LEADERS WEEK

ADELLE ONYANGO (MEDIA) When darkness surrounds you, it is still possible to become a bright light to those who need it. Kenyan radio host, actress, poet, musician and activist, Adelle Onyango, is an example of necessary radiance. Before settling into her current role as a radio show host for music station KISS 100, she refined her knack for storytelling while studying Journalism at United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya. Tearing down poetry stages and open mics eventually turned into her manning mics on air. KISS, she has told outlets, was a calling that she simply answered. Most recently, the vivacious media personality was named one of the BBC 100 Women 2017. Onyango, 29, has also designed apparel and accessories in collaboration with Olive & Annie and NAD, and serves as the brand ambassador for Intel Corporation campaign, “Intel She Will Connect.” There were two events that were pivotal in shaping the trajectory of Onyango’s career and her strong views on bettering certain women’s issues. The first, and one of her most publicly known struggles, took place at 19 years of age when she was raped by a stranger on the way to a party with friends. The second was losing her mother to breast cancer and subsequently dedicating herself to the fight against it. Both moments took her time and therapy to overcome, but the healing process lent itself to something bigger. Now, Onyango channels her energy into her campaigns, No Means No, ProjectShe and Team Adelle, created to empower women and help them restore their dignity. Through the initiatives, she helps provide free therapy and access to safe houses with confidence classes for rape victims; encourages individuals to openly share their challenges; and gives empower ment talks across high schools, universities, churches and women’s groups. While she has endured what must have felt like insurmountable lows, Onyango continues to be a beacon to those with both open ears and open hearts.

“My determination comes from Congolese women.” Working as an independent journalist isn’t easy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but Solange Lusiku Nsimire has been doing just that, reporting on human rights and democracy in a country with a tenuous grasp on both. The DRC is perhaps one of the most volatile countries in Africa when it comes to human rights. According to research and reports from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), those who dare to report and expose crimes against humanity, sexual violence, or rigged elections have been subject to threats and attacks. They can also become victims of corrupt judicial proceedings and arbitrary arrest, including lengthy detentions. Government officials and other powerful persons dissatisfied with press coverage publicly criticize journalists and accuse them of criminal defamation, insulting the head of state or the government, or spreading false information, all of which are against the law in the DRC. This creates a climate of fear and self-censorship that stifles free speech and discourages open and honest criticism of government policy and the conduct of public officials. Between July 2005 and November 2009, four journalists from the well-known radio network Radio Okapi, created by the Fondation Hirondelle and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), were killed. In February 2014, Radio Télévision Muungano journalist Germain Kennedy Mumbere Muliwavyo was shot to death in North Kivu when the vehicle in which he rode was ambushed by the Allied Democratic Forces, a Ugandan rebel group operating in eastern DRC and one of many competing powers in the province. But this landscape of threats and attacks does

not deter Lusiku Nsimire, 42, from her work as the editor in chief and publisher of independent newspaper Le Souverain. For almost ten years, Lusiku Nsimire has courageously and conscientiously led her team of reporters in challenging local and national powers, revealing corruption and abuse, and giving voice to the often marginalized peoples of South Kivu. “I’m really happy and satisfied when I publish,” Lusiku Nsimire told the non-profit Frères des Hommes last fall. “I continue this commitment in the press — I am here to denounce [and] demand like a sentinel watches.” Operating out of her hometown of Bukavu (the capital of South Kivu province in Eastern Congo), Le Souverain is published in one of the most troubled provinces of the DRC. Lusiku Nsimire took over as editor in chief of the paper in 2007, after the death of founder Nunu Salufa. Le Souverain was created in 1992 with the intent of liberalizing press in the Congo under the dictatorship of President Mobutu Sese Seku. Since then it has been published monthly, with content devoted to the promotion of democracy and advancement of women’s rights in a country where mistreatment and manipulation of both are too often the model. Her work, Lusiku Nsimire said, “is a commitment, a press service of democracy, the promotion of women, and freedom. Hence, our belief is the freedom of the press—a right, and not a gift from the politician.” As head of one of the few independent media outlets in the area, traversed by roaming gangs of Rwandan génocidaires, riotous army conscripts, and predators of all ranks, Lusiku Nsimire has been intimidated countless times during her fifteen years in journalism.

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SOLANGE LUSIKU NSIMIRE (MEDIA)

WOMAN LEADERS

ICOLE AMARTEIFIO (FILM & TV)

Being dubbed “the Shonda Rhimes of Ghana,” is a weighty accolade, but Nicole Amarteifio is eager to measure up to the honor. The selftaught TV producer and director has made waves locally and abroad with her work. Born in Accra, her family fled for London when she was three months old amid a series of political coups and relocated to Westchester, New York when she was six. While Amarteifio, now 35, studied African and Afro-American Studies at Brandeis University in Massachusetts, and earned her Master’s degree in corporate communications and public relations from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., she technically had no formal training in television. In fact, she took a job with the World Bank in Washington, D.C. in 2010, coordinating Africa-focused social-media campaigns. Yet, the TED Fellow and FORD Foundation Fellow recently closed a TV deal with yet-to-be-disclosed prominent U.S. network for Season 3 of An African City, a series she produced with her own money and likens to Sex and the City set in Accra. Once it airs, it will be the first TV series on a U.S. network that is exclusively set in West Africa. Additionally, she recently wrapped up production on “Before the Vows,” (the rom-com is her first feature film) and pitched two other Ghana-based shows to U.S. networks. Amarteifio, who is mentored by Rosa Whitaker, Cindy Courville and Mara Brock Akil, is set on “disrupting the narrative” and has long-term goals of putting out more projects that bridge the gap between the U.S. and the continent of Africa, and that stray beyond the single story of Africa.

IMI ADEAGBO

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(SPORTS & WELLNESS)

Similar to a bobsled team, Nigeria has never had a skeleton racer to represent them in the Winter Olympics. Until now. Simi Adeagbo practiced the winter sliding sport for all of four months before qualifying to compete in this year’s Winter Olympics. She finished in 20th place after four heats, and blew open a door for African women in winter sports. But although her success seems quick, it was anything but easy. She was raised with a strong work ethic and that foundation combined with her desire to be the best, shaped her into the dedicated athlete she is today. We caught up with Adeagbo before the games and shared that she’s been a lifelong competitor and always dreamed of becoming an Olympian. She’s played softball, volleyball, field hockey, basketball, and ran cross country and track. When it came to early inspiration she looked to fellow athletes such as Serena Williams, who was “blazing a trail in a sport where many people didn’t look like her.” Currently she cites marketing and branding executive Bozoma St. John and actress, writer, director and producer Issa Rae as motivators for “unapologetically creating the future and using their gifts to make significant contributions and leave a legacy.” She’s definitely following in their footsteps. “Ultimately, my journey is about breaking down barriers for future generations of athletes—especially young women everywhere—who are watching athletes like me push the limits through sport during the Games,” says Adeagbo. “It’s time for us to redefine Africa and create the future.” Passionate about the Women’s Movement, Adeagbo defines a powerful woman as strong, smart, vivacious, courageous, beautiful and ambitious. When it comes to community building among African women, she believes there is strength in numbers. “With the many challenges facing African women, it’s important that we support each other and lift each other up. We are a powerful force when we work together.” The soundtrack to her life right now? “This Girl is on Fire by Alicia Keys because... I am firing on all cylinders.”

TECHNOLOGY

HASHTAG SOUTH AFRICA The art of boosting Mandela’s country on social media

Hashtag South Africa has a diverse Mission Statement. The company’s goal is to showcase #SouthAfrica across the world in a respectable and welcoming manner with the resources of Social Media and other digital related services whereby we promote goods and services to Local and International markets.

Social Media Mission Statement Hashtag South Africa’s Mission Statement with Social Media is to engage South Africa to the utility of this growing media platform to create awareness on products and services that their businesses could render to expanding effective campaign awareness to organisations and Institutions as part of the National Development Plan in creating a capable State while targeting Skills Development with Social Media Training modules.

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Hashtag South Africa grows its business in line with The National Development Plan 2030 of South Africa, taking into consideration the outline of our Country while staying up to date with the Global shift in economy, politics and Cloud Computing Mission Statement environment. Its Mission Statement is to develop custom cloud Hashtag South Africa Social Media Pty Ltd mission solutions to manage big data that will soon be is in the area of Social Media, Cloud Computing essential to every business in South Africa, as the and Fibre Optic Connectivity. With short to long global shift to the New industrial Revolution has term execution in the innovation of Algorithm begun in major states around the world. based social media platforms for South African “We currently have engaged with Google to based industries, together with lateral execution identify cloud products, while we spend efforts in of an online Social Channel with Video based research and development for the sustainability social platforms, an online Social Radio Station of South Africa in the management of its own connecting South Africa’s awareness to the data cloud,” said the team. world and Social Media Training Academy to For more information, please visit hashtagsa. skills develop Public, Private and Developing com/ communities with Social Media as the medium to relay the message.

TOURISM

Meet Vanessa MBENOUN

the Cameroonian Tourism Entrepreneur capturing South African journeys Vanessa Mbenoun is the brains behind KAMAROUTES TRAVEL DESIGNERS and a Tourism Management Graduate, an inbound tour operator based in South Africa. She is also the founder of Creative And Moving, a consulting and marketing agency focusing on tourism and hospitality start-ups. She is currently studying towards her MBA while running Camwomen.org , an initiative that supports women and young girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ms. Vanessa Mbenoun and I am the founder of Creative And Moving, a tourism group based in South Africa and providing tailored services to tourism and hospitality businesses. “My dream has always been to see Africa emerge as a sustainable tourism destination and through this platform, I would like to share my journey, as I am making this dream happen through entrepreneurship. South Africa’s scenic beauty, magnificent outdoors, sunny climate, cultural diversity and reputation for delivering value for money have made it one of the world’s fastest growing leisure – and business – travel destinations. South Africa is a popular destination for business travellers, who spend on average three times more than their leisure counterparts while crossing over significantly into leisure travel themselves, through tours before or after their business activities and through return trips in subsequent years. With its first-world infrastructure, balmy climate and breathtaking scenery – not to mention acres of golf courses – South Africa is an ideal location for international congresses and conventions.

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The country has well over 1 000 world-class conference and exhibition venues, ranging from intimate bush hideaways to large-scale, hi-tech convention centres. All of these offer a wealth of leisure activities, side-tours and events: from walking with elephants to first-hand experiences of African culture to luxury shopping and relaxation. The success of tourism in South Africa is based on the warmth of the people, the attractiveness of the unique attraction, infrastructure, iconic cultural and heritage sites, and the abundance of natural assets. Operating a successful tourism business such as KAMAROUTES TRAVEL DESIGNERS requires certain skills. In the contemporary era, both in industrialized countries and in emerging countries

the prime concerns are individual rational and creativeness of entrepreneurial business. The tourism business is one of the largest, fastest growing sectors and that’s a fact. Plan your next tour with KAMAROUTES TRAVEL DESIGNERS online at www.kamaroutes.com and let them capture the best South African journey based on your needs. Credit: Tropics Holdings Ltd.

TOURISM

BAKUBUNG BUSH LODGE See the Big Five on your doorstep A mere two hours drive from Johannesburg, and ten minutes from Sun City, Bakubung is located in the Pilanesberg National Park, a malaria free, 57,000-hectare reserve where you can see the big five from your room, or on a game drive through the reserve.

wide range of other activities. Whether you want to relax or be more active – all needs are catered for:

From prides of roaming lions, to giraffes, Bakubung will bring you closer to the splendour and beauty of the African bush.

· A shuttle to Sun City allows guests to indulge in the offerings of the resort and casino.

Bakubung Bush Lodge blends modern day luxuries with a full-on African wildlife experience. Join a game drive to track down the Big 5 or relax in the spacious pool. A wide range of sports activities and shuttles to Sun City create variety that make every day a unique experience. The main attraction is the abundant wildlife of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. The Big 5 and most other large mammals of Southern Africa are represented in the reserve. Bakubung Bush Lodge offers a

· A floodlit tennis court , action cricket and volleyball cater to active guests. · Treat yourself to some indulgence at the Nôkô Kalahari Spa. · Stay in touch in the internet lounge . Bakubung Bush Lodge is situated in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve , known for Big 5 game viewing in a malaria-free environment. Within close driving distance to the Sun City Resort and Casino , it is easy to combine an African wildlife experience with a bit of glamour. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is less than a two hours’ drive from Johannesburg

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Every visit to Bakubung, or “People of the Hippo” will remind you why you need to come back.

· Join the guided bush walks and game drives to discover the naturalenvironment of the Pilanesberg.

INSPIRATION

Nontutuzelo Sekhutleleng A Change-maker, a Mother, an Author and a successful Entrepreneur

Nontutuzelo Siko Sekhutleleng was born in 1976 at a place called Jankempdorp in Valspan Located in the Northern Cape. She is the firstborn daughter of Pastor Amos Sizane Siko and of the late Doreen Siko. She got married at the age of 26 and unfortunately became a widow at the age of 40. Nontutuzelo is A Mother, Author, successful Entrepreneur & an Anointed Speaker that carries a great gift for the nations. She began work as a humble domestic worker and worked her way up to being a prosperous and established business woman, holding a Diploma in Human Resources. She has successfully run a Transportation business since 2007. Challenging social, religious and cultural norms, her book – I stood as A Mother – takes the reader through the strength of womanhood as we get to read about her journey from childhood to being a widow. Abused and rejected – Nontutuzelo stood as a mother from the death of her mother to the death of her husband. They say life begins at 40 and it is at the age of 40 that God has released her to the nations with proven character, this is the Deborah of our time. What makes you such a great Change-maker in this time and age? As we know widows are believed to be poor and helpless, but in this time and age, widows can be Entrepreneurs, Mothers, Fathers and game changers like any other citizen, they only need to be treated as human beings. What does leadership mean to you and how does it translate in your daily task? Leadership means working together to create a better place for everyone, exploring every opportunity that’s there to invest and to bring solutions to every problem that arise in our different countries.

If you were to be elected President of your own country, how would you use your influence to create opportunities for others? I will go to different stakeholders and try and incorporate them to find solutions to our problems, problems that widows, orphans and the poor deal with and we will allow fair chances to everyone. I will not be a boss or dictator but a Leader that shares the values and opinions of the people I represent What’s your current state of mind about Africa and/or the world and how would you unlock change in your community? Africa has the potential of doing things for themselves and not by just waiting for opportunities but actively creating opportunities for themselves. We need to stop blaming apartheid and explore opportunities the opportunities that have been made available The age of empowerment is here (if we want it). What’s your final message to Young Leaders who would like to follow in your footsteps? As an entrepreneur you go out there and look for opportunities and use them to create something for yourself, when I started my business there was no funding I had to lose my house to start my business, so if you believe in something you need to lose something for it in order to gain more.

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Interview conducted by Venicia Guinot. Courtesy of TROPICS HOLDINGS Ltd

surprise refinedsince whitemove-in sugar isweekend pretty badatfor health. It’s no only been a that few weeks theyour college in the But how do you cutand sugar out of diet for good? town where I work seeing allyour those packed minivans crawl along the side streets, trying toPaleo find their way to the right dorm, made think Those who have been for a while know how great they feel me when of the parents out knows of the driveway their for youngest child they limit sugar,who anddrove everyone that it’s a with big no-no diabetics. and a fullabout van—and would return anthey empty to an empty But what for everyone else? with Should tryvan to cut sugar out nest.

Some no doubt broke out the intake? champagne; others retreated completely, or just limit their Is sugar really that bad?with a box of tissues. And some probably did both 20 minutes. It’stoa avoid wild time. Sugar comes in numerous forms, and within it’s almost impossible if

This built-in transition also happens to be the perfect time resetone your you eat any type of processed or already-prepared foods. So to what’s relationship with your worse signifithan cant others? other. As with sodo many otherit? things to do? Are some sugars And how you avoid we talk about, the important thing is to be intentional. As Dr. John Why You Should Avoid Sugar Gottman says, couples often ignore each other’s emotional needs “out There are many reasons why you avoid the stuff: of mindlessness, not malice,” so should being mindful is sweet critical. • Itthe provides fuel for cells some space . Everyone has their own In early days, givecancer each other

of processing this major milestone, and you may find that your •way It impairs the function of white blood cells partner’s way is a lot diff erent than yours. It’s OK. As long as the behavior • It promotes weight gain isn’t harmful, live and let live. If your partner goes silent in those first •fewIt days, makescheck the body produce lessbut leptin (needed in occasionally, don’t hover.for appetite regulation) •If you It disrupts how amino acids transfer to muscles suddenly realize you’ve drifted apart over the last few years (or

•decades), It spurs row insulin resistance, canchildren lead to Type II diabetes job, and back together which . Raising is a demanding many couples are surprised • It induces oxidative stress to find that while they were busy tending to their children’s needs over the years, they lost track of each other. It’s Not all sugar is terrible for you. Natural sources like that from fruit, not too late to find your way back to each other. There are many ways honey, and maple syrup aren’t as bad as from processed sugars and you can do it—all of them start with acknowledging that you’ve drifted HFCS (high fructose but it’s still possible to overdo it. and desiring to comecorn backsyrup) together. There’s no reason to cut all fruit out of your diet in an attempt to remove Without monitor guide, it can be tempting for partners all sugar;children you’d beto giving up alland those antioxidants, photochemical, fiber, to monitor and guide each other. Resist the temptation. Instead, look minerals, and vitamins at the same time. for the good in your partner , including the things that you might be taking for granted, and express appreciation. Every time you do, you are How To Cut Sugarin Out Of Your Diet calls “the emotional bank account,” making a deposit what Gottman

Stop Buying Processed Foods

This is probably the hugest change you can make in your diet when it comes to cutting out sugar. Practically everything you buy that comes in a box, bag, or can has added sugars. Sometimes one food item has four or five different types of sugar added!

Make Your Own Spaghetti/Tomato Sauce

If you can’t quite take the step to cut out all processed or ready-made foods, at least cut out store-bought tomato sauce. These often have really high amount of sugar and you just don’t need it. It’s easy to make your own: simmer some canned or fresh tomatoes in a pot with some fresh herbs. Even if you add a bit of sugar to taste, it will still be way less than what is in the store-bought stuff.

SEX & INTIMACY

The empty nest rest Quota andGive you Yourself can drawAon that bank account during hard times. Ideally, that account healthy before you back get tooffthe emptyone nest, it’s never too If youisare weaning yourself of sugar, of but the easiest ways lateto todo start. it is to give yourself a “quota” when it comes to sugar, and use

Rediscover things you used enjoyevery doingday, together before the it on dessert.the If you normally eat to dessert then cut sugar bykids’ needs and commandeered Youfew could startcut by having avoiding allactivities sweets except at dessert. your Overtime. the next weeks, back a dinner conversation dating How the amount of dessertsreminiscing you have perabout week.your Another waydays. to help is did to you like to spend Thenfruit. try to remember what, over the replace half oftime yourtogether desserts then? with fresh years, you said noRules to because wasn’t time. Going on a mission trip? Give Yourself About there Dessert Hosting a salon to discuss literature or art? Which of those things are in from in? the Then last point, you’ve cut sugar intakethem. back to youLeading still interested makeonce a plan together for doing just desserts, you should then start weaning yourself off of desserts. Find a new interest that’s yours and yours alone . I know. I just said Give yourself certain days of the week to eat desserts (and no, don’t say to find things to do together. But the truth is that you need both. “every day that ends in ‘day.”) Say, for example, you only eat them on Pursing your own passion is not just rewarding for you—it can also be even days, or on weekends, or on special occasions. intoxicating to your partner, who will see you with fresh eyes. In her . Don’tEsther Keep Treats The House research, Perel In found that one of the times a person is most attracted to should their partner is when watching other do their This one be a no-brainer. If you havethe a huge bucket of icething fromcream a distance. “When Iyou’re look atgoing my partner, and confi in the freezer, to eat it.radiant Just don’t buy thedent, sweet[is] probably the biggest across thebadly, board,” says Perel. She’s a big stuff. If you really wantturn-on something really you’ll have to go to get a advocate for nurturing intimacy and mystery single portion, and half ofboth the time you might decide it’s(aka not security worth it. and passion) in relationships, and doing something new is a way to amp up Try Xylitol or Stevia the mystery. Not everyone can tolerate xylitol, and not everyone likes the taste of With time and effort, your relationship can be more satisfying and stevia. But if you can, and do, then they make acceptable substitutes simply more fun than ever. Enjoy it! And appreciate it while it lasts, for sugar. Just don’t overdo it with them. You’re better off just lowering because those children might come home again. Thirty-two percent your sweetener intake entirely rather than trying to find an acceptable of children 18 to 34 live with their parents, according to Pew Research substitute. Center. But that is a topic for another time. Try Dark Chocolate

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If by your sugar addiction Written Barb Depree, MD comes in the form of a chocolate habit, then switch to dark chocolate. It’s better for you, has great health benefits, and you probably won’t be able to eat an entire bar of dark chocolate like you can milk chocolate.

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Avoid Mixed Alcohol Drinks

Do you know how much sugar is in a rye and coke? A cosmo? A gin and tonic? A lot! If you must drink, choose wine, straight spirits, or mix with soda water. Cut Out Soda

Trade soda for water with lime or lemon in it and you’ll cut your sugar intake in a huge way. If you still need something bubbly, drink soda water, either plain or with lime or lemon.

Choose Whole, Fresh Fruit Over Juice, Dehydrated, or Other Fruit Products

Juice, fruit roll-ups, and dehydrated fruit taste great, of course: they’re almost pure sugar! Added to this is the fact that all or most of the fiber is gone. Treat your body to the natural benefits of fruit and eat it fresh and whole. Choose berries, cherries, grapefruit, lemon, and limes over apples, bananas, and other fruit; the former are higher in glucose and lower in fructose and tend to have a lower overall content.

Avoid Flavored Yogurt

News flash: most commercial yogurt has just as much sugar in most of a candy bar (or more!) Don’t eat it! Instead, buy or make your own plain yogurt and add fresh fruit and maybe some honey if you still need some sweetness.

One of the most common places sugar will hide is in your storebought salad dressings. Make your own (like a Paleo Caesar Salad dressing); this way you control the amount of sugar (as well as the salt and soybean/canola oil). It’s easy to make your own! Remember: for most vinaigrette, the ratio is three parts oil to one part vinegar. Great oils to use are extra virgin olive oil, walnut oil, and avocado oil. You can use Balsamic vinegar or other flavored vinegars. Plain white vinegar or cider vinegar works as well in a pinch. You can also add a bit of lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper, maybe some dried herbs, and a dab of honey if you want a bit more sweetness. Start with all ingredients at room temperature for the best emulsion.

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Make Your Own Salad Dressing

HAIR-BOOK 32 | TROPICS MAG #63

The Bead Life

Team credits Hair pieces – Angela Plummer Fashion stylist – Angela Plummer www.angelaplummer.com Photographer – James Bell www.bellphoto.co.uk Makeup artist – Bernadette Tomi using TAJJ COSMETICS Model – Erika Fashionista Story name - French Chic

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HAIR-BOOK

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STYLISH MEN

STYLISH WOMEN

STYLE STYLISH Every Woman Campaign

WOMEN

DOS clothing store is thrilled to reveal its new look and collection with its DOS “ Everywoman Campaign”. The campaign features popular Big Brother Naija Housemate Cee C , Actress Osas Ighodaro-Ajibade, Beauty Blogger Dimma Umeh and Style Writer Eki Ogunbor.

“Every Woman” campaign was born from wanting to deliver everything every woman needs in one place and being able to provide their needs. They believe every woman is a DOS woman and they celebrate women of different shapes, lifestyle and careers. The priority is to deliver chic looks while you make the world your runway and know you can do anything and everything with the right look. It doesn’t matter what body size you have, they are back, bigger and better and ready to transform your wardrobe.

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These beautiful women have been carefully selected from different walks of life because they possess different body shapes and have created a niche for themselves and thriving in their various industries. In line with the vision the collection showcases how a woman can shift from work into to a relaxed look and still remain gorgeous.

DESIGNER

Grace Wallace the epitome of African Luxury

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rs. Grace O. WALLACE is available as a Speaker for corporate, public and private events, as well as providing executive coaching and training on Fashion, Design and Creative Fields. Fashion Designer Grace O. WALLACE mixes high fashion and the mass market, with a line of haute couture and a line for the average African consumer. The multi awards-winning designer has quietly built her West Africa-based, ultra-luxe label into a significant business with estimated revenues in excess of $800,000 a year. Now distributed worldwide, through 3 high-end shops, the GRACE WALLACE brand has particular traction in the International consumer market thanks to its elegant yet unfussy aesthetic, and, in its early years in the Africa market, strong backing from Mrs. Grace O. Wallace.

DESIGNER In the eleven years since, Mrs. Grace O. Wallace has built her fashion house into what International Media from three continents dubbed “one of the most successful label emerging out of Africa.” Known for its couture-quality materials — she once told the media that she simply “cannot work with cheap fabrics” — and commitment to craftsmanship, Mrs. Grace O. Wallace has won over customers for wellfitted, wearable pieces that blend ultra-luxe with ultra- functionality. The brand has developed a reputation for dressing powerful women who want to look sleek, without standing out as too high fashion, and can count Politicians, High Profiles, and Celebrities, amongst its clients.

Email: kilfashion@gmail. com Website: www. gracewallace.fashion

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For more information about the brand, please get in touch with the team…

BEAUTY LOOK

Ex Big-Brother House-Mates launch Eyelash Line Nollywood actress, Juliet Ibrahim who recently had a photo-shoot for her eyelash line; Shades By Juliet Ibrahim, featured Khloe, Cee-c and Sonia Ibrahim in her eyelash shoot.

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Credits: Makeup: @ivstouch / @make_upbykilo / @jstonezmakeover Accessories: @shazzling Designer: @zateemeedesigns / @kokobykhloestore / @purple_kolection Hair: @zeedarapreniumhair Hair styling: @ceezysstyling Photography: @dnl_lens Models: Juliet Ibrahim / Sonia Ibrahim / Khloe / Ceec

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BEAUTY LOOK

MELANIN

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House Of Jahdara Presents Its Spring/Summer 2018 Edit

VOGUISH

The Jollof Collection

Leading Nigerian jewelry brand, Gbenga Artsmith, has cooked something new and it is soooo yummy! Their latest bridal jewelry lookbook has an interesting name that will definitely catch your attention; it is titled “THE JOLLOF COLLECTION!” In the designer’s words, “What is a Nigerian wedding without the presence of Jollof? Jollof is full of deliciousness and is highly coveted by every patriotic African (lol), and so are all the pieces in this collection! The collection features gourmet dishes whipped from spicy ingredients like corals, pearls and crystals. All the pieces are guaranteed to make you drool…”

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The jewelry pieces were modelled by Nigerian Makeup pioneer @banksbmpro, CNN-acclaimed Ace wedding planner @funkebucknor, Fabric queen @ temiladyofkwamuhle and Nigeria’s most renowned male jeweller @gbengaayodada. Too much sauce!

CREDIT: Jewelry: @gbengaartsmith Banke Meshida-Lawal and Temilade Adeoye’s Makeup: @banksbmpro @bmpromakeup Funke Bucknor-Obruthe’s makeup: @kelynstouch Lasercut asooke: @twentyeight02asooke Green and yellow dresses: @teethreads Olive green outfit: @nhn_couture

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VOGUISH

HEALTH NOTES

9 C

Warning Signs of Cervical ancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Cervical cancer used to be the number one cause of death for women—that is, until Dr. George Papanicolaou introduced the Pap test in the 1940s. This simple test, which collects cells from the cervix and analyzes them under a microscope, has succeeded in reducing the death rate from cervical cancer by more than 50 percent.

The vaccine is effective only before an infection is contracted, so experts recommend that girls and boys get vaccinated before becoming sexually active. Experts advise beginning the vaccines at age 11 or 12, though it may be started younger or given later. For complete information about the vaccine, click here .

Even if you’ve been vaccinated, you need to continue regular Do you have cervical cancer? Healthy Women now offers a free cervical cancer screenings, because the vaccine does not protect and confidential Clinical Trial Navigation Service to help you against all HPV cancer-causing strains. identify available clinical trial options. What’s equally important is for you to be aware of the warning The good news is that regular screening and follow-up care can signs of cervical cancer, which may not cause any symptoms at prevent most deaths from cervical cancer. Even better, you can first (when they are pre-cancers or early cancers), but later on, get screened at no cost to you. The health care reform act covers may affect you with pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding. cervical cancer screenings, part of a “well-woman visit.” Here are the signs of cervical cancer: Because it usually takes several years for normal cells in the cervix • Bleeding after intercourse to turn into cancer cells, it’s imperative to get regular screenings, • Bleeding after menopause either with a Pap test or HPV test (or both). • Bleeding between periods Rarely seen in women younger than 20, cervical cancer most • Bleeding after douching commonly occurs in midlife. Yet, many older women don’t realize • Bleeding following a pelvic exam the risk still exists as they age. In fact, more than 15 percent of • Having heavier menstrual periods than usual or ones that last cervical cancer cases occur in women over 65. longer than usual Although the death rate has dropped considerably, women are • Unusual vaginal discharge still dying of the disease. The American Cancer Society estimated • Pain during sex that about 12,900 women in the United States would be diagnosed • Pelvic pain with invasive cervical cancer in 2015 and about 4,100 would die Of course, just because you have any of these symptoms doesn’t from it. necessarily mean you have cervical cancer. The symptoms could The human papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads through sexual be caused by other conditions, like an infection. But it’s wise to contact, causes cervical cancer. Fortunately, most women’s bodies schedule an appointment with your health care professional to can fight the HPV infection before it leads to cancer. But your risk get checked and, if appropriate, get treated. for cervical cancer climbs if you smoke, have had many children, The screening guidelines for cervical cancer can be confusing. use birth control pills for an extended period or have HIV. Most major medical organizations no longer recommend routine Girls and young women should consider getting the HPV vaccine yearly screening, but it is important to know what’s appropriate (given in a series of three vaccines), which can protect against for your age, personal history and risk factors.

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several types of the virus, including some that cause cancer. Written by Beth Battaglino, RN, CEO of HealthyWomen

TROPICS FOOD

Epicure Restaurant the epitome of ﬁne dining in Johannesburg

His wide and innovative menu (a work of art in itself, boxed into wooden frames that you unfold across the table) is paired with an extensive wine list, plenty of Champagne and a fine cigar selection. Rum is the flavour of the day so speciality cocktails are a must-try. From Senegalesestyle tuna loin and West African seafood dishes to North African tajine and Angolan-style confit chicken gizzards, Chef Coco’s dishes burst with colour and flavour. Even Epicure’s breakfast menu is a trip across the continent with Tunisian shakshuka (there is also a vegan version), and South African-style vetkoek fritters with spicy chakalaka relish and boerewors on the menu. Each dish has been carefully named and the menu is an exciting read. The small plates ‘tapas’ bar snacks include Wonderful Wats, Ethiopian-style, berbere-spiced doro wat chicken stew with injera pancakes and our name favourite, the Rolex, a Ugandan-style miniature chapati wrap filled with beef or vegetable curry. Whatever the meal you are in for a feast.

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This plush 160-seater restaurant and bar with a terrace and enclosed garden in upmarket Morningside is home to Belgian-Burundian Chef Coco Reinarhz’s innovative global African cuisine. Opened in March 2018 Epicure is an elegant setting for exciting dishes inspired by destinations from Morocco to Angola, Ethiopia to Senegal. Award-winning Chef Coco has built a large and loyal following and you’ll likely be dining next to people from across the globe, diplomats and dignitaries, as well as visiting celebrities. The interiors are supremely elegant, a combination of plush royal blue and copper and gold colouring, velvets and leather, with a seating area that resembles a wooded forest grove, where people would gather in traditional For more information, feel free to browse African settings. There is also a private dining area. https://epicurerestaurant.co.za

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TROPICS FOOD

WANDERLUST 48 | TROPICS MAG #63

What’s to see at the Zeitz MOCAA? The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the largest art museum in Africa, and the largest museum in the world showcasing the art of Africa and its diaspora. The museum is dedicated to researching, collecting, and exhibiting this art, and houses an impressive collection of work from all over the continent and beyond. The exhibition space covers 6,000 square meters over nine floors, with 100 gallery spaces. In other words; set aside at least a full day to visit. What’s with the odd-looking building? The museum is housed in an important historical landmark—the old grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. The silos were built in 1921, and for the better part of a century, they were the industrial heart of the harbour area. They were also the tallest buildings in Africa for a long time. The original structure was comprised of 56 storage silos and an adjacent elevator building, and was made a heritage site. The architects working on the museum were tasked with designing a building that would pay homage to this important historical landmark, leaving the outside largely as it was. British designer Thomas Heatherwick told The Architectural Digest That his team “wondered how we could make a compelling innard, instead of the outside being the memorable space”. The interior of the building is indeed astounding. It is carved out in the shape of an enlarged grain of corn (based on an actual kernel found before construction began). The result is a series of curved concrete lines, with light pouring in through the cylindrical silo structures, giving visitors a cross-section view of the inner workings of the old industrial structure. How did it come to be? The Waterfront has long been seeking a use for the historic building. They wanted something that would honour the past, and create an accessible space for all South Africans. The German businessman, Jochen Zeitz, was looking for a museum to house his collection of African contemporary art, and the two visions aligned to create a unique partnership—Zeitz’s collection now forms part of the museum’s collection, and he also funded the project. The Director and Chief Curator, Mark Coetzee, has led an industrious 25-year long career in the art world and is excited about the potential of the museum to showcase Africa’s cultural heritage. You can hear more from him in the interview below (which also gives a sneak peak of what to expect inside the museum). What will I see there? Aside from the stunning array of artwork, you can enjoy the bookshop, a restaurant, reading rooms, and a rooftop sculpture garden. Expect work by acclaimed and award-winning artists like Mary Sibande, Frances Goodman, Kendell Geers, William Kentridge, and Nicholas Hlobo.

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