English Premiership: Lukaku Leads; Eto’o, Torres, Others Follow
USAfrica
WINTER ISSUE | JANUARY – MARCH 2014
Journal
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The voice of Africans in the Diaspora
Rwanda:
Rising Like a Phoenix What’s the Secret? €50,000
for Cameroonian, Malagasy Women Ghana, Mali,
Others Consider Climate Solutions
Young, African? Obama Wants You In America EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
WINTER BEAUTY TIPS
Africa Fashionably Loud In London Tk Besh – Betting On The Best
MEGA Rocks The House! FLO Sweeps Awards $1.99 N300.00
USAfrica
WINTER ISSUE | JANUARY – MARCH 2014
Journal
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The voice of Africans in the Diaspora
FLO Sweeps MEGA Page 22 Fashionably Loud In London Page 26
“Until Africans are united, we will always be seen as a second class continent. ”
H.E. Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana
RWANDA RISING
The Secret Revealed!
Mandela Speaks From The Grave! Page 13
Liz Berry Gips on Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative Page 33
A Publication of USA Media LLC The voice of Africans in the Diaspora VOL. 1. NO. 5 | 2013 USA Media LLC PRESIDENT ‘Tunde Kolawole, MS, SPHR
CONTENTS 5 | From the Editor’s Desk: The
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Power Package
8 | Editorial: Going. Going,
VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION Bola Ajebeku vpfinance@usafricajournal.com
Go...
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ‘Tunde Kolawole editor@usafricajournal.com
9 | My Word, My World
Cover 2:
12 | StaightUp Folasophical: A Chicken, A Knife, A Boy …
RWANDA RISING
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS A.Obafemi Animasaun, Mark Finlay, Betty John, Tosin Obiwale,Esther Olatunde, Isaac Oluwole, Renny Vonne, Sadiat Makuna, Folorunsho Moses, John Kay, Eldana Mengesha. CHIEF ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE, USA Ninilola Ogundare advertise@usafricajournal.com
13 | News-Africa: Mandela Speaks From The Grave! 16 | Faith-FULL: The Power of
New York Bureau Joseph B. Oyewande
Purpose
GRAPHICS graphics@usafricajournal.com
22-23 | Arts & Entertain-
ment: MEGA rocks; Izzy’s Desires; and Book Review
SALES REPRESENTATIVES Elizabeth Kolawole (Pennsylvania); 610-570-9143 Bisola Adesina (Atlanta, GA); 678-665-7698 Mujidat Irawolomo Shonekan (MD); 240-678-1935 King Sammy (Texas); 281-903-4120 Kola Adaramola (New York, NY); 914-652-6500 Bola Fabiyi (Connecticut); 860-519-8853 Frederick Ebede (Newcastle, DE); 302-690-4881 Folashade Babalola (New Jersey); 862-324-5116 Biodun Ogunnaike (Chicago, Illinois); 708-915-0530 Muyiwa Olawole (United Kingdom) 07952199648 Adetomiwa Olorunsola (Lagos, Nigeria); 080-55785651 Adams Ogamenyi (Abuja, Nigeria); 080-23796382 Idowu Akinrosoye (Ibadan, Nigeria); 080-34660025 For sales inquiries worldwide, call: 1-530-237-4222
25 | Health
10 African Students: Georgetown Talks Pan-Africanism
14
ionably loud in London
30 | Beauty: Winning Winter
Tips
34 | Youth Scene: Renny
Vonne – Let’s Share The Blame
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26-29 | Fashion: Africa fash-
36 | Interview: Tk Besh – Betting On the Best Wedding Bells: Tobi Takes Tunde!
37 | Business 38 | Immigration
SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, email us at subscribe@usafricajournal.com
32-33
Leads, Others Follow; and New Year, New Clubs?
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Cover Story: Obama wants young African leaders in United States; Liz Berry Gips speaks ON THE COVER: President Barack Obama - Pete Souza, THE WHITE HOUSE COVER 2: H.E. Mathilde Mukantabana – Credit: Rwandan Embassy, Washington D.C.
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40 - 41 | Sports: Lukaku
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
The Power Package
L
et me start off by telling you that USAfrica Journal, The Voice of Africans in the Diaspora is one! We’ll roll out the drums in due course. For now, let’s just say in whatever way we might have shone brightly like the morning star amongst constellation of publications catering to the interest of Africans in the Diaspora, we give God all the glory for the spirit of enablement. No doubt, it has been challenging but fulfilling as well. In this anniversary issue, you will feel the power in the content and character of the people we are featuring. For starters, we went to the capital city of earthly power, Washington DC, and brought good news about an initiative close to the United States President Barack Obama’s heart; the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and its flagship program, the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. What is this fellowship bringing about 5000 young Africans to the United States in the next five years about? How can you, your children, families and friends partake in this great opportunity? Our report and exclusive interview with the high-level government official in charge of the program, Liz Berry Gips of USAID on pages 32- 33 will clear things up for you. Nineteen years after genocide rocked Rwanda to its very foundation, the country is rising like a phoenix from the ashes of mayhem and destruction to emerge as an economic model country in Africa. How did Rwanda achieve its astounding economic turn-around? We peeked into the mind of Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana, the first female ambassador of Rwanda to the United States. Her recommendations for success in Africa as a whole are on page 6. In London England, we found a young woman walking a path similar to ours; focusing on the positives in our community regardless of the peculiar challenges and risks associated with such a venture. In her, we found a kindred spirit, and just
for the sake of the uninitiated, we ask: What is Tokunbo Adebesin, aka Tk Besh, publisher of TKbesh! magazine doing, walking regally where even some big boys fear to tread? She opened up to us on page36. Tk Besh is not our only memento from England. Our fashion splash is a tribute to a great event in the fashion world - the Africa Fashion Week London. If you couldn’t make it to England to witness the show first hand, no worries. Our visual recap of the choice designs and styles at the event begins on page 26. Far from the klieg lights of high energy runway, it was payday in Deauville, France for two women from Madagascar and Cameroon who dared to effect changes in their communities. Each got €25,000 for projects that would ignite changes in their communities. Check out their stories on page 13. In sports, Romelu Lukaku, son of Zaire’s ex-international soccer player, is succeeding where other big names in English premiership are failing abysmally. What is his secret? Sports columns are on pages 40-41. Our columns and columnists are as engaging as ever. Dr. Dayo Brown goes full throttle with The Power of Purpose and Holy Humor on page 16 while Dr. Fola Ojo is at his witty best with A Chicken, A Knife, A Boy, And Sacrifice on page 12. Our regulars are equally fresh. Arts & Entertainment, Beauty, African Students, Youth Scene featuring Renny Vonne, Wedding Bells and many more from the stable of our fine writers – served a la carte – for your reading pleasure. Sit back, put your feet up if you will, and enjoy this power package. From all of us here at USAfrica Journal, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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COVER 2
Rising Like A Phoenix Secret To Rwanda’s Resurrection Revealed By Tunde Kolawole | USA
Her measured strides down the aisle belied the fire within her frame. She looked calm while the moderator introduced her to the audience at the Pan-African conference hosted by the African Society of Georgetown (ASG) in Washington D.C recently. H.E. Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana
“Professor Mathilde Mukantabana is the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Rwanda to the United States of America and non-resident Ambassador to Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina,” the moderator announced. “Prior to her appointment, Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana was a tenured Professor of History at Cosumnes River Col-
lege (CRC) in Sacramento, California from 1994 to 2013. She is also co-founder and President of Friends of Rwanda Association (F.O.R.A), a non-profit American relief association created in the wake of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda….” A woman of no mean achievement, her introduction expectedly was not a one paragraph exercise.
Jimmy Owotomo MS, MBA, CPA
Photo Credit: www.akilahinstitute.org
Dependability and Service.
“Rwanda’s development is as a result of our ability to reach the people; work from the bottom up and to make them part of what we are doing as a nation.” 6
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COVER 2
Ambassador Mukantabana
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“It is because the people did not just focus and employ the capitalistic way of development but also invest into the development process, the core principle of who we are.” Yet, when she got to the podium, it didn’t take her long to hit the nail on the head. “Unification is not at home,” she said. “Unification is not in your family. We cannot talk of Africa Pan-Africanism if we don’t talk about unification within one country.” Speaking at the conference themed “I Am Because We Are: Uniting Africa for a Promising Future”, Prof. Mukantabana, the first female ambassador of Rwanda to the United States stressed the need for the unification of Africa. According to her, unification is important “because until Africans are united and they are able to praise what is taking place in Africa, we will always be seen as a second
class continent.” She stressed that Africans need to see and recount what is positive in the continent to shape the narrative about Africa in the international scene. She noted that Africa has all it takes to be not just a viable partner in the world but also a viable force. “Africa is the richest continent in the world,” she said. “What we need are people who are driven, not just to attend conferences but also to translate those conferences in framing the global wealth of the continent and to implement action that would in turn benefit the continent.” She said regardless of what our challenges are, “African countries need to come together.” RISING LIKE continued on page 42
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EDITORIAL
AGOA: Going, Going, Go… With barely two years to the expiration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), stakeholders from various levels of governments in Africa and United States should intensify efforts at getting the U.S. Congress to renew the program beyond its current 2015 expiry date.
S
igned into law in 2000 by President Bill Clinton, AGOA is aimed at increasing trade and investment between the United States and eligible sub-Saharan African countries by reducing and/or eliminating tariffs on several African products and goods. Not only has the opportunity to export goods duty-free to a vast international market such as the United States created successful business enterprises, jobs and generally enhanced Africa’s economy but also, the success of these AGOA-influenced business ventures
have contributed greatly to enhancing progress and political stability in the continent. Political stability and economic development have in turn opened up Africa’s economy to U.S. investors hitherto wary of venturing into Africa. Apart from investments in the traditional oil sector, foreign investments are now evident and fast growing in the machinery, vehicles, textile, agricultural products and equipment export and import sectors as well. For Africa, in addition to providing new market opportunities for its exports, AGOA’s eligibility cri-
teria such as improved human rights record, protection of internationally recognized workers’ rights and adherence to open market economic policies among others will ensure the continued development and transformation of Africa, not just in the economic field but in the socio-political arena as well. Ambassador Michael Froman, U.S.Trade representative, speaking at this year’s AGOA Forum held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, rightly noted that AGOA has no doubt transformed the way the United Sates and Africa interact on trade and economic issues.
Froman noted that U.S total trade with sub-Saharan Africa grew from $28.2 billion in 2001 to $72.3 billion in 2012. On the other hand, AGOA imports to the United States were $34.9 billion in 2012 while U.S. exports to sub-Saharan Africa went from $6.9 billion in 2001 to $22.6 billion in 2012. To further propel Africa’s growing economy to greater heights and achieve its full potential, we need international trade to fuel its flight. Hence concerted and purposeful efforts aimed at attracting investments in Africa, and the expansion of trade opportunities between the United States and eligible African countries are crucial for AGOA’s success. AGOA has played key roles in the development of Africa’s economy to its present state, but the task is not over yet. What we have witnessed in the last 13 years with AGOA clearly corroborates U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman’s assertion that achieving sustainable development in Africa and the world requires “trade, not just aid; investment, not just assistance.”
“Concerted and purposeful efforts aimed at attracting investments in Africa, and the expansion of trade opportunities between the United States and eligible African countries are crucial for AGOA’s success.” While the United States has thus far indicated its commitment to extending AGOA beyond 2015, eligible African countries should do their part by ensuring their products and goods continue to meet AGOA’s specifications for quality and packaging. They should also strive to maintain the conditions of their continued eligibility in the program. That done, then we can all, with one voice, call on the United States Congress to vote for a “seamless” renewal of AGOA before it expires in 2015.
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MY WORD, MY WORLD
To Whom Do You Give Thanks? By Tunde Kolawole | USA
“…But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, by the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own…” Abraham Lincoln
H
ere in the United States, the last Thursday of the eleventh month is set aside to reflect upon the blessings of God in our lives and just give Him thanks for His many blessings. That was the intention of the founding fathers of this great nation. However, in reality what we do essentially is, we get a holiday, eat turkey, and the next day (black Friday), we shop till we drop. Many of us conveniently forget, in the words of Lincoln, “the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us.” And even when we mouth glib statements of thanks, our attitude begs the question: to whom are we offering thanksgiving? Do you thank God, your benefactor or the force, the Jedi, the universe, or any of the other politically correct coinages that Hollywood and its counterparts worldwide have come up with since President Lincoln made the last Thurs-
day in November “a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens” 150 years ago? And how often do you thank God? For me, praising and giving thanks starts before and extends beyond the national day of Thanksgiving. Which is why more than a month after we’ve all stuffed our tummies with stuffed turkey, I am still giving thanks to the one and only God Almighty. Aside from millions of unmerited favors that I, like other inhabitants of this world receive every second, I am particularly grateful for the birth and growth of this outlet. I am thankful for being counted worthy to have come this far. I am thankful, that though sometimes, I shed tears for one thing or the other, joy always cometh in the morning. I am thankful for the once impenetrable doors of blessings that He has flung open for me; I am thankful for the seemingly
“Do you thank God, your benefactor or the force, the Jedi, the universe, or any of the other politically correct coinages?” incessant battles that I fight daily in the physical and the spiritual realm, because through it all, I am still standing. I am thankful, for though the challenges stack high and intimidate like the walls of Jericho, my persistent shouts of praise and thanks are leveling every inhibiting force on my way to success. I am thankful for the mercies that I receive daily. I am thankful for the chirpy voices of glorious seeds that I hear now in a house that the enemies had boasted and sworn upon their very own lives, would
be desolate and devoid of the sound of children. I am thankful for these fruits of my loins. I am thankful for the love of a virtuous wife who strengthens me in moments of weakness; whose loving hands and heart nudge me on even when I, the dreamer, am on the verge of throwing in the towel. I am thankful for her fervent prayers and the victories we achieve together as we proceed in this journey. I am thankful because I am redeemed; my salvation is certain; my prosperity is assured; my elevation is guaranteed; my restoration is settled; and my victory over “these Egyptians” that I see today is a forgone conclusion. As we revel in this festive season, giving thanks and commemorating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, I ask you my friends: What are you thankful for? And to whom do you give thanks? And the Winner Is … AFOLABI AYODEJI of Queens, New York, USA. Ayodeji won $25. Congratulations. QUESTION: Who was the Nigerian drafted in the first round of the NBA 2013? ANSWER: Victor Oladipo MASHET AT LARGE WILL BE BACK BRIGHT AND FRESH NEXT ISSUE.
AFRICAN STUDENTS
Pan-Africanism Takes Center Stage at Georgetown
T
By Sadiat Makuna | USA
he African Students of Georgetown (ASG) held its annual Pan-African conference at the University campus in Washington recently. The two-day event featured discussions and presentations
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by prominent professors and eminent personalities within and outside the academic community. Topics of discussion on Day one of the event included Africa’s Political Leadership: Until the lion has a historian, the hunter will always be a hero;
Democratization Movements in Africa: From rise of multiparty systems to the grassroots movements of the Arab Spring; The Innovation of the Future: Africa’s Cultural Takeover; and How can we increase the visibility of African immigrants in the U.S.?
Speakers on Day 2 included Astratie Teferra, Books for Africa; M’vunganyi Jackson, Voice of America; Dr. Aisha Audu, Alliance of Nigerians in the Diaspora; Mrs. Ify Nwabukwu , Director of the African Women’s Cancer Awareness; Professor Ndu David Ifudu, Vice President of Action Africa; and the keynote speaker, the Ambassador of Rwanda to the United States, Prof. Mathilde Mukantabana. In her address, Ambassador Mukantabana urged Africans, especially the youths to write their own narratives about Africa lest outsiders with ulterior motives write unflattering and inaccurate accounts of and about Africa.
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STRAIGHTUP FOLASOPHICAL!
A Chicken, A Knife, A Boy, And Sacrifice D By Dr. Fola Ojo | USA
ateline: IBADAN, NIGERIA, DECEMBER 25TH, 2011 - We had just arrived Nigeria about 15 days earlier. Friends and family had converged in my house for a Christmas gettogether, and my children were excited because it was their first trip to motherland. They were loving it, and I was loving it that they were loving it. It mattered so much to me that they did. Then my cousin brought a live chicken ready to be slaughtered for lunch. With daring boldness, he took the innocent chicken out in the compound, brandished a shining knife, and laid it on the ‘throat’ of the chicken. The chicken bled, and the chicken shook in tremor, and the chicken
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died. That’s how chickens are killed in Nigeria. Then one of my sons, who witnessed this “animal cruelty” screamed, ran into the house and started crying. He was 10 years old then. “No, no Daddy, Uncle Tope can’t do that. He is mean,” my son kept on crying. This is a boy who can munch on fried chicken even in his sleep. But he insisted that the chicken shouldn’t have been slaughtered. My boy was in depression for four hours. “Chickens have to die before you eat them, son”, I told him. He disagreed. To an American child, every animal is a pet. He loves to eat chicken, but hates for chickens to die. That is where many of us are.
We want stuffs, but we don’t like to sacrifice. Some things have to go for some things to come. If you want to lose weight, drop those junk foods you love so much, drop those weights of pounded yam and goat meat, and then exercise. It is sacrifice. You want to be a doctor, you sacrifice time and money for the rigors of school, and then your dream comes true. It is sacrifice. If you want your business to grow, you may have to put in extra hours and money into it now, then your dream will come true. It is sacrifice. You want to get to the next level, you may have to ‘leave your kindred and your father’s house,’ you may have to leave your comfort zone for a zone unknown and uncomfortable at first. It is called sacrifice. Sacrifice is sometimes tough, but to get what you want, you may have to give up what you have. At the end of the day, you will have more than you used to have. It’s only in the place of sacrifice that dreams come true.
Dr. Ojo
Dr. Ojo is the CEO of Gravitas Communications, and Senior Pastor of RCCG (City of Praise), Hartford, Wisconsin.
DON’T LISTEN TO THEM
Naysayers will always emphasize what they believe is inevitable about your life. They may say your failure is inevitable; your fall is inevitable, and their imagined fatality concerning your destiny is inevitable. That’s how naysayers talk. What they say can only come to pass if you accept it because whatever a man accepts as inevitable is what will inevitably come to pass.
NEWS-AFRICA
Nelson Mandela may be dead physically, but his words, even in the grave resonates loud and clear. Many generations will read and hear his words and be motivated to be the best they can be. Here we pay tribute to the foremost human being of African descent with some of the memorable quotes that came from the brilliant mind of Mandela. Those who have ears let them hear.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” “A good head and good heart are always a formidable combination. But when you add to that a literate tongue or pen, then you have something very special.”
“Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity; it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”
Mandela
Photo Credit: citizensplatform.net
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) Speaks Still From The Grave!
“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
“THE GREATEST GLORY IN LIVING LIES NOT IN NEVER FALLING, BUT IN RISING EVERY TIME WE FALL.”
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WEDDING BELLS
Tobi Takes Tunde! By John Kay | USA
W
hether you like Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon or not, you’ve got to give him a pat on the back for what is turning out to be his most enduring legacy, the National Youth Service Corp. Even if, arguably the program is not doing what it’s supposed to do, its unintended benefits to the teeming Nigerian youths are commendable. I don’t know what they drill into youth corpers in camp these days but obviously cupid has also encamped at every NYSC post. Or how else do you explain how Babatunde Popoola and Oluwatobiloba Smith’s paths, just like many others, crossed? “We met during our National Youth Service camp in Iseyin, Oyo State in 2009,” Tunde recalled. “We started dating shortly after that.” After spending three weeks together at NYSC camp, the love birds said they knew there was something special going on. “Our relationship got stronger after the national youth service was over,” Tunde said. What else does anyone expect after twenty-one days and twenty-one nights together? So, Tunde took matters to the next level. He went on his knees and proposed to Tobi. One and half years later, they were joined in holy matrimony at the Living Faith Church, a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel, Bashorun, Ibadan while families, friends and well-wishers were treated to a lavish reception held at Lekan Are Hall, Kakanfo Inn, Ibadan.
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Photos: Jydiel Photography
WEDDING BELLS
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Faith-FULL
The Power Of Purpose By Dr. Dayo Brown | USA “If a man doth beget a hundred, and live many years, and is great, because they are the days of his years, and his soul is not satisfied from the goodness, and also he hath not had a grave, I have said, ‘Better than he is the untimely death.” (Ecclesiastes 6:3 -YLT). “...I say that he would be better off born dead.” (TLB). “...I maintain that the stillborn child is in better case than he.” (NEB). Longevity is often a thing of concern for us as human beings; however, a man may live to a ripe old age, beget several children, make a name, get fame, and a chain of titles, but at the end of the day he may have lived a very unfulfilled life. When a man lives an unfulfilled life; a life without direction, or a sense of purpose, then from the point of view of the scriptures, a stillborn child (i.e. a child born dead) is better than that kind of man! A child born dead is indeed better than a man who journeys through life without knowing, understanding, or fulfilling the specific purpose(s) for which God brought him into this world.
• The man with no purpose in life never shows good progress. • Great purposes lead to great achievements. • Poverty of purpose is worse than poverty of purse. • The purposes of God may sometimes be delayed, but never abandoned. • A man without a purpose or goal is like a ship without a rudder, adrift on the foaming trackless ocean, and going nowhere. • It is not the man with a motive, but the man with a purpose who ultimately succeeds in life. • The greatest thing in this world is not so much as where we stand, as in what direction we are moving. • The secret of success is constancy of purpose. • Always set your goal very high; even if you do not reach it, you’ll surely put on muscles climbing towards it. • Setting long-range goals will keep you from being frustrated by short-range failures. • You don’t hit anything unless you aim at it.
CHURCH LISTINGS
Glorious Morning Star Cherubim and Seraphim Church 289 Saratoga Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11233
United Ghanaian Community Church 7501 Oak Lane Road Cheltenham, PA 19012 215-635-4799
CAC, House of Praise 4909 Edmonston Road Hyattsville, MD 20781 301-864-4788
PENNSYLVANIA CAC of PA, Mt. of Redemption 5200 Paschall Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-724-5711
United People Church Intl. 307 N. Bridge Street Suite 207 Elkton, MD 21921 443-433-6252
CAC Philadelphia 5800-02 Baltimore Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-921-6703
TEXAS RCCG, Household of Faith 5001 New York Avenue Arlington, TX 76018 817-461-8857/817-4614310
NEW JERSEY MFM, Jesus House 409 S. 18th Street Newark, NJ 07103 973-220-0007/862-902-6372
RCCG, Living Spring Center 5801 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19139 215-474-5800
Glorious Light Christian Ministries 104 E Broad Street Paulsboro, NJ 08066 856-224-4925
RCCG, Living Spring Intern’l Center 2123 N. 1st Avenue, Whitehall, PA 18052 610-264-3790
NEW YORK CAC, Mt. Pleasant of USA 1132 East Tremont Avenue Bronx, NY 10460 718-239-3512
RCCG, Living Spring Center 919 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-765-8170
CAC 1st In The Americas 622 Cortelyou Road Brooklyn, NY 11218 718-284-7479
Rehoboth Harvest Ministries 931 Hamilton Street, 2nd Floor Allentown, PA 18101
MARYLAND MFM 5506 Church Road Bowie, MD 20772
CONNECTICUT Winners Chapel International 76 Pane Road Newington, CT 06111 860-878-6855 DELAWARE RCCG Abundant Life Center 61 Christiana Road Newcastle, DE 19720 302-561-6008 RCCG, Eagles Wings Chapel 700 Forest Street Dover, DE 19904 302-480-2808 GEORGIA Church of Grace Ministries 6599 Allred Court Riverdale, GA 30296 ILLINOIS Christ Healing Evangelical Church (Chapel of Praise) 15821 Greenwood Road South Holland, IL 60473 RCCG (Jesus House) 4332 N. Kedzie Avenue Chicago, IL 60618 Berhane Wongel Ethiopian Church 6200 N. Artesian Avenue Chicago, IL 60659
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CAC, Mercy Field 9621 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-541-4323/713-7059078 Dominion International Center 14030 Beechnut Street Houston, TX 77083 281-293-9997 WASHINGTON DC CAC (WOSEM) 4408 Georgia Avenue Washington DC 20011 202-723-2086 RCCG, New Wine Assembly 1515 Kenilworth Avenue Washington DC 20019 202-398-2211 WISCONSIN RCCG, City of Praise 5112 North 37th Street Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-465-0000
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• If you haven’t figured out where you are going by now, you’re probably lost even before you start. • The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but life without purpose! It is tragic to be alive and not know why. In fact, life without a destination is not really life but an experience in frustration. Beloved, you were created for a purpose; your birth is a clear evidence that God wants something done here on earth that can only be done by you. Remember, it is better to die for something than to live for nothing! Wisdom Keys • Prayer is the key of the morning, and the bolt of the night. • A lunch break is good; a prayer break is better; a praise break is best. • You cannot stumble if you are on your knees. • Prayer is not an easy way of getting what we want, but the only way of becoming what God wants us to be.
Dr. Brown Dr. Brown is the President, Word Ablaze Ministries, Philadelphia. Holy Humor Two boys were arguing when the Sunday school teacher entered the room. The teacher says, “Why are you arguing?” One boy answers, “We found a ten dollar bill and decided to give it to whoever tells the biggest lie.” “You should be ashamed of yourselves,” said the teacher. “When I was your age I didn’t even know what a lie was.” The boys gave the ten dollars to the teacher!
Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania (Mount of Redemption)
5200 Paschall Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143 Mail: P. O. Box 2294, Upper Darby, PA 19082 Phone/Fax: 215-724-5711 Email: cacpenn@aol.com Website: www.cacpenn.com Facebook: cacpenn
Come worship with us Bible Study 7:00pm – 9:00pm, Wednesday Prayer Warriors 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Friday Night Vigil 12:00am – 3:00am, Friday Holy Ghost 12:00 am – 3:00am, Last Friday of the month Choir Practice 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturday Sunday School 10:00am – 11:00am, Sunday Worship Service 11:00am – 1:30pm, Sunday Office Hours 10:00am – 2:00pm, Monday – Friday Prayerline
10:00pm – 11:00pm, Tuesday Dial 712-432-3900, Access Code 335192#
Pastor C. O. Ogunleye Associate Pastor
Pastor E. O. Odeyale (DS) Pastor-in-Charge Pastor S. A. Oyeleke Chairman, U.S.A. EDCC
Pastor M. O. Ajayi Associate Pastor
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07/03/2013 15:52:31
ADVERTORIAL
The President, his entourage, CACNA chairmen and some senior pastors after the service at CAC 1st in the Americas chapel.
CAC President Visits USA
Pronounces Blessings On All
It is the dawn of a new day in Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) worldwide especially here in North America and Canada, and the evidence of this new beginning is manifesting across the land. The new President of CAC Worldwide, Pastor Abraham Akinosun was
in the United States from November 1 to 12, 2013 on his first official visit to the country. While in the United States, he visited and fellowshipped with CAC churches in Illinois, Maryland, Texas and New York. Speaking at the special Welcome and Blessing Pronouncement service held at
CAC Mt. Pleasant of New York, the President thanked CAC members in North America and Canada for their hospitality. He prayed for the continued blessings of God to be upon the congregation and urged them to hold on strongly and faithfully to the teachings of Christ.
Banner bearers welcoming the President.
CACNA Coordinator, Pastor Joshua Owoeye with some chairmen and ministers awaiting the arrival of the President, CAC Worldwide, Pastor Abraham Akinosun, at JFK Airport. 18
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Eastern District Coordinating Council (EDCC) Chairman, Pastor Solomon Oyeleke in his welcome address prayed that God would grant the President “the faith of Abraham combined with the courage of Joshua to lead successfully and accomplish the tasks ahead of CAC in general.”
ADVERTORIAL President Akinosun prays for Pastor Yomi Ademuwagun and wife.
Mama Oyedeji during the service at CAC 1st in the Americas.
Cross section of Pastors’ wives at the welcome service.
Cross section of CACNA members in a meeting at CAC Village conference room. Cross section of CAC Men’s Association (CACMA) in CAC Manhattan during the welcome service.
Choir, CAC 1st in the Americas singing to the Lord.
CAC Agape Fellowship receives President Akinosun. Sectional view of the library of CACNA.
Cross section of EDCC Good Women with the CAC President. President Akinosun responding in a meeting at CAC Village conference room.
Industrial kitchen section at the CAC Village.
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ADVERTORIAL The CAC President at the National Secretarial and the library of CACNA in Chicago, Illinois.
The CAC President at the library of CACNA.
Prayer of faith conducted by G/E, Pastor/ Prophet S.K. Abiara with the President and all in attendance claiming the land of CAC Village.
Prayer of faith conducted by G/E, Pastor/ Prophet S.K. Abiara with the President and all in attendance claiming the land of CAC Village.
Group photograph with the President and team after service at CAC Bethel Fellowship. President Akinosun with the General Evangelist, Pastor S.K. Abiara at CAC Agbala Itura DCC Headquarters, Maryland. Choir, CAC 1st in the Americas ministering at the occasion.
President and entourage at the altar of Garden of Praise, Maryland. President and entourage at the altar of Garden of Praise, Maryland.
The CAC President at the National Secretarial and the library of CACNA.
Pastor Sola Rotimi singing and praising the Lord with his accordion at the farewell service. 20
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ADVERTORIAL The President blesses the fruit package from EDCC.
Congregation at CAC House Praise.
CAC Mt. Pleasant, EDCC children in a song presentation.
Some CAC members awaiting the arrival of the President at Chicago Airport.
WDCC representatives welcome CAC President. CAC Manhattan children at the farewell service for the President. Children’s representative of CAC Mt. Pleasant of New York, EDCC Hqtrs, presents a bouquet to the CAC President. The Coordinator, on behalf of CACNA presents a gift to the CAC President.
Pastor John Oluwatimilehin, CAC Bethel, DCC welcomes the President and CACNA Coordinator to the church headquarters.
President Akinosun with some CACNA chairmen and pastors.
President Akinosun fielding questions from the editor of Light of the World Christian Journal. USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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MEGA Rocks The House! By Femi Akintunde-Johnson | Nigeria
T
Photo Credit: MEGA
he much publicized Music and Entertainment Gospel Awards (MEGA) was held in Lagos recently. The atmosphere of the event’s venue was filled with air of exaltation and expectation as Nigerian gospel artistes, top ministers of God, Nollywood stars, media top honchos, celebrities and many others from different sectors of Nigerian society exchanged
pleasantries at the MixZone; the musical ceremony preceding the awards. Artistes who performed at the awards included Sammie Okposo, Segun Oluwayomi, Sola Allyson, Ebele the flutist and the trio of Ifeoma Chukwu (Ify d revolution), Bose Bada (Hadassah) and Taiwo Oladoye (New Artiste of the Year). Other notable performers were The Trados (led by Soji Ayiki), Efe Nathan (wife of MEGA multiple winner, FLO), duo of Jos-based reg-
My Desires Are Izzy! By Tosin Obiwale | USA Who are you? My full name is Israel Odebode. My stage name is Izzy. I am the third in my family. I have two elder brothers. I am a young man of God, producer and gospel recording artist who is ready to take the gospel of Christ anywhere I find myself, through music. I love diversity in genres of music but I love afro-gospel the most. I am signed under Thavma Records, which I co-own with my elder brother, Iyanu Odebode. How did you get into music? I’ve always loved music right from my childhood. I started in the church and I am still in the church. I started music officially at the age of 15 as a producer and later moved into singing at the age of 17. 22
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Why gospel? Because that is where God wants me. I have tried going secular but it didn’t work. I always knew it would never work out. God has His ways of bringing you back to Him. Although I had a very solid and sound Christian background, I still decided to do my thing then but thank God for who I am now. He has brought me out of darkness and shown me light. How do you come up with your songs? I get the soundtrack (instrumental), make a melody in my head, go to the studio, and the inspiration comes naturally with the help of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes I also write based on a situation I’m going through or see people go through at that time.
Izzy
Photo Credit: MEGA
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
gae acts, Jah Device and Salmplus, and cameo duet of Madam D. A. Fashoyin (of CAC Women’s Choir fame) and Telemi Orokoya. Lead anchor of the night, Atoyota Akpobome, a.k.a. Ali Baba, produced a virtuoso performance that kept the glow in the show till the very end. The event, supported by several industry giants, also had an all-thespian segment anchors who colluded with Ali Baba to produce a fun-filled extravaganza. The roll call included Bimbo Manuel, Iretiola Doyle, Yemi Solade, Yetunde Fosudo (DG of Ekiti Cultural Centre), Yemi Shodimu and Feyikemi Niyi-Olayinka (of Oleku fame). The show was directed for TV by inimitable director/scriptwriter, Amaka Igwe. Surprise of the day was the emergence of Nathan Akiremi (FLO) as recipient of multiple awards, most prominent FLO being the Artiste of the
Year category. He also took top honors in the following categories: Producer, Praise Song, Worship Song, Highlife Song, Male Vocalist, Collaboration and Best Use of Instrument. Other notable winners were: Midnight Crew (Group and Juju Song), Jos-based Grace Jerry (Song of the Year, Female Vocalist and Best Song in Hausa) and Segun Oluwayomi (Album of the Year and Contemporary Vernacular Album). Single award winners who strutted on stage include Kenny K’ore (Contemporary Album), Salmplus (Reggae Song), Taiwo Oladoye (New Act), Esther Igbekele (MedleyYoruba), Kefee (Medley-English) and “All For Nothing” (a gospel video produced by Sam Boye).
What is your debut multi-track CD all about? The title explains it all: “MY DESIRE”. It just talks about what the desire of Christians should be. Scripture says in Matt. 5:6: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. That’s my desire.
music instrument, which will you be? Wow! I will be a drum. That has always been my major in terms of music. I love to drum.
As a young Nigerian artiste in the Diaspora, what are your desires? To travel around the world and spread the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ through music. I will take the gospel to all countries if possible. K-BROWN4GOD With God all FASHION DESIGNER things are possible. I know I am getting there. You play the drums and keyboard. If you have the power to be a
KAYODE MD/CEO
Photo Credit: www.hulkshare.com
Any message for your fans? I thank all my fans for the love, support, prayers and encouragement they give to me. I must say that it has truly helped me every step of the way, and has kept me going. God bless you all abundantly. I love you so much.
African Male and Female Embroidery Address; 7256 Radbourne Road, Upper Darby, PA.19082 Phone: 267 770 0376
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BOOK REVIEW
What Is Your
Memory of Love? By Jill I, Shtulman | USA
E
very now and then I read a book that is so powerfully crafted that I am in its spell for days afterwards: The Lizard Cage; In the Company of Angels; The Lotus Eaters; and White Dog Fell from the Sky. And to this group, I now add Aminatta Forna’s masterwork, The Memory of Love. Perhaps it is no coincidence that each of these works, at its core, is about the survival of the human spirit and the triumphant resurgence of love during the worst times of war and torture. At our harshest times, we become the most human and reveal our best and our worst. So it is with this story. Adrian Lockheart, a British psychologist, whose
heart may indeed have become frozen and locked, comes to Sierra Leone with the best of intentions. He quickly becomes friends with Ka Mansaray, a gifted and tormented young orthopedic surgeon, whose current patient, Foday may be a metaphor for the country: crippled and in need of reconstruction to embrace the future. Adrian also deals with a patient of his own: the elderly Elias Cole, an unreliable storyteller if ever there was one, whose captivating recitations center on post-colonial times and his obsession with the wife of a colleague. All of these men (with the exception of Foday) will be swept into the vortex of one charismatic woman whose pres-
ent and past history will define them within themselves and in relation to each other. While this plotting may rely a tad too heavily on coincidence, the characters are so fleshed out and the story is so stunningly told that this plot device can easily be given a pass. In this “land of the mute”, the stories that are told are compelling and
Film festival presents
Caribbean Films in Havana By Esther Olatunde | USA
F
or the second year in a row, the trinidad+tobago film festival (ttff) presented a showcase of Caribbean films at the Havana Film Festival (HFF) in Cuba.
Entitled Caribbean Calling, the showcase comprised of four featurelength and five short narrative and documentary films, all of which screened either at this year’s ttff or the ttff/12. The films represented a wide cross-section of the non-Spanish speaking Caribbean, and came
from countries such as Aruba, Barbados, Martinique and Trinidad and Tobago. Officially known as the International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, the HFF - which in its 35th year – is the oldest film festival in the region, ran from December 5 – 15 while Caribbean Calling took place from December 6 - 10.
can also be self-serving. As one character states, “It’s happening all over the country. People are blotting out what happened, fiddling with the truth, creating their own version of events to fill in the blanks. A version of the truth which puts them in a good light, wipes out whatever they did or failed to do and makes certain none of them will be blamed.” It is up to the characters to recognize the silence of the lie, even when the lie becomes internalized. Ms. Forna delineates the two types of liars well: the less educated who express their conflicts physically through psychosomatic illnesses, muteness, paralysis, nightmares, fugues...and those who are “clever” enough to intellectualize their experiences and transform them into a different type of story. At its heart, The Memory of Love is a love song to a country. When Ms. Forna writes, “People are wrong when they talk of love at first sight. It is neither love nor lust. No. As she walks away from you, what you feel is loss. A premonition of loss,” she might as easily be writing about Sierra Leone itself. Source: Amazon Vine Reviews In addition to the Caribbean films in the showcase, Bruce Paddington’s documentary on the Grenada Revolution, Forward Ever: The Killing of a Revolution, which had its world premiere at the ttff/13, was screened at the HFF as an official selection. “Cuba, with its great cinematic tradition, has long been a byword in the wider world for Caribbean cinema,” said Jonathan Ali, ttff Editorial Director, and one of two ttff team members who attended the HFF. “We are therefore pleased to once again present at Havana a showcase of films reflecting the rich diversity of contemporary Caribbean cinema, both in terms of style and content.”
The lineup of films at the festival included: FEATURES Broken Stones (Guetty Felin, Haiti, 2012) Payday (Selwyne Browne, Barbados, 2013) Poetry Is an Island: Derek Walcott (Ida Does, Suriname/Aruba/The Netherlands, 2013) Songs of Redemption (Miquel Galofré + Amanda Sans, Jamaica/Spain, 2013) SHORTS Auntie (Lisa Harewood, Barbados, 2013) The Gardener (Jo Henriques, Aruba, 2013) One Good Deed (Juliette McCawley, T&T, 2012) Passage (Kareem Mortimer, Bahamas, 2013) Vivre (Maharaki, Martinique, 2013) USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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The Company You Keep Says a Lot About You
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HEALTH
’Tis the Season for Safety
T
he holidays are full of joy and excitement, especially for children. But every year, around 50,000 children go to emergency rooms from two days before Christmas to two days after Christmas. This winter, follow these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics to help keep your kids out of the ER.
Holiday Hazards
Although more children younger than five years old were seen in the ER with injuries around Christmas, all age groups are at risk. The good news is that nearly all children are treated and released from the hospital on the same day. Still,
prevention can help keep your holidays running smoothly and safely: • If you have young children, don’t use any ornaments that are sharp or breakable, have small removable parts, or look like candy or food. • After you open presents, remove wrapping paper, ribbons, and other choking hazards. Don’t burn them in the fireplace; they’ll ignite quickly, potentially causing a flash fire. • Keep toys with button batteries away from small children. These batteries can be deadly if swallowed. • When you visit friends or family, keep an eye out for danger spots,
such as staircases without child gates, in homes that have not been childproofed.
Winter Weather Woes
For many kids, winter means sledding, ice-skating, building snowmen, and having snowball fights. As temperatures fall, keep these tips in mind for outdoor play. • Keep kids warm and dry by dressing them in several thin layers. Don’t forget insulated boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat. • To prevent hypothermia and frostbite, set a time limit for how long kids can play outside. Have them come indoors every now and then to warm up.
• Supervise young kids when they are sledding, skiing, or snowboarding, and make sure they wear the right protective gear.
Regular Risks
Although the holidays and winter weather can create risky situations for kids, more injuries are actually caused by everyday activities. So, while you keep an eye out for holiday hazards and winter woes, don’t forget about the usual suspects. For instance, don’t let your kids run on hardwood floors in stocking feet and don’t leave plastic bags where children can reach them. Source: Rite Aid Wellness
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FASHION
Photo Credit: Michael Mba * AFWL 2013
AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON By Betty John | Canada
A
frica’s fashion industry continues its impressive run in the limelight with the staging of the third edition of the annual Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) recently. Created by Ronke Ademiluyi, AFWL showcased the works of more than 100 top and emerging African fashion designers in the UK at Old Truman Brewery in Shoreditch, London. According to the organizers of the event, AFWL celebrates the work of African and African inspired designers in the UK. Since its debut in August 2011, AFWL has become a key platform for capturing the surge of the African inspired trends in the fashion industry. With styles and designs stretching and cutting across a gamut of tastes and perspectives, this year’s show – with its characteristic glam, panache and vibrant colors of African prints – witnessed by an estimated 25,000 visitors, lived up to its billing as the largest African fashion exhibition outside of the continent. If you missed “the single, biggest African event in the UK,” here is a visual recap of some of the dazzling designs that dotted the runway of AFWL 2013. Ronke Ademiluyi 26
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Photo Credit: Michael Mba * AFWL 2013
FASHION
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Photo Credit: Michael Mba * AFWL 2013
FASHION
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Photo Credit: Michael Mba * AFWL 2013
FASHION
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BEAUTY
Winning Looks of T Winter
The Look … For the Face he skin should be matte and flawless. For women of color, Flori Roberts Creme to Powder Foundation is numero uno for perfectly matte, flawless skin.
The Look… For the Lips
V
iolet lips are THE shade of the season. Check out Va Va Violet in Flori Roberts Lipstick. Highly pigmented and long wearing, in shades designed to make you shine.
I
t’s easy to forget about the beauty rituals required to look your best for the whirlwind of parties and social events that this glamorous season has in store for you. The beauty experts at Flori Roberts are obliging us again with tips and suggestions to take you through the cold months of winter.
The Look… For the Eyes
B
lack Diamond Liquid Liner is the star of this show.
TIP: For perfectly shaped and even wings, draw a simple line over the lids, and then separately draw your wings. The third step is to draw a link across the two. The result; amazing makeup-artist style liquid liner application.
Jydiel
To achieve the look choose the highlight color for the intricate work around the inner corners of the eye. This creates amazing effects for the holiday season and adds terrific drama to the eye area.
Photography by Jide Ademulegun
Baby It’s Cold Outside!
T
ake a close look at your skin in a magnifying mirror. Cold weather will increase the signs of dryness, making your foundation look blotched and your skin lined.
For a quick fix, try Moroccan Miracle from Adrien Arpel, a highly emollient night treatment with Argan Oil from Morocco (extracted from the nut of the Argan Tree, exclusively native to Morocco). This “liquid gold” is combined with Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, clinically proven to reduce wrinkle depth by up to 30 percent in 30 days. Skin will become plumper, softer, firmer and younger looking with continued use.
www.jydiel.com 30
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ADVERTORIAL
Garment of Glory at the Valley of Blessing
T
he Christ Apostolic Church of Philadelphia, Valley of Blessing celebrated its 27th anniversary with series of events that led to the grand finale at the church’s sanctuary at Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia on November 17, 2013. The theme of the anniversary was “Garment of Glory.” Guest speakers at the anniversary service were Pastor David Ogunlana and Evangelist Taiwo Okunrinkoya. In his welcome address, the senior pastor
of the assembly, Pastor Festus Ogundoju thanked “God for His protection and powerful movement among the congregation.” Among ministers of God who graced the occasion were Pastor Gbenga Famojuro, Chairman, 1st In Americas District Coordinating Council; Pastors Segun Solanke, David Brown and Noah Afuwape, Evangelist Adeyeye Aladetohun of CAC of Philadelphia, Valley of Blessing; and Evangelist Jonathan Maseyi.
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COVER 1
Young, African? Obama Wants You In America Stories By Tunde Kolawole | USA
T
hose who say when one door closes, another one opens may be right after all. For regardless of what fate befalls the ailing Diversity Visa Lottery program, now or in the future, another door to an arguably a better end has just been flung open by none other than the United States President Barack Obama – exclusively for young African leaders. Are you a smart, savvy, and enterprising young African in the continent? Can you rise to the occasion without skipping a beat? Do you have a track record of sterling community service and leadership skills? If you answer yes to all of the above, then President Obama is inviting your application for an opportunity to participate in the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, the new flagship program of the President’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). “We need young Africans who are standing up and making things happen not only in their own countries but around the world,” President Obama said. “We have to have a self-
President Barack Obama answers questions during a Young African Leaders Initiative Town Hall at the University of Johannesburg Soweto campus in Johannesburg, South Africa, June 29, 2013. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza). 32
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reliant and prosperous Africa. The world needs your talents and creativity and the United States wants to be your partner.” In December 2013, the administration began accepting applications for the program, through which Africa’s most promising young leaders will have the opportunity to come to the United States to learn and develop their skills at some of the top Universities in the United States.
“We need young Africans who are standing up and making things happen not only in their own countries but around the world. The world needs your talents and creativity and the United States wants to be your partner.”
According to a statement from the office of the Press Secretary, The White House, the program will create unique opportunities in Africa for the Fellows to use their new skills to propel economic growth and prosperity, and strengthen democratic institutions. Selected Washington Fellows will have access to dedicated funding opportunities to support their ideas, businesses, and organizations. Over $5 million in small grants will be awarded in the first three years by the U.S. African Development Foundation to Washington
Fellows seeking to start their own businesses or social enterprises. To be eligible, applicants must be: • Citizens of and residents in a subSaharan African country. Persons holding U.S. citizenship or permanent residency are not eligible; • Young leaders with spoken and written proficiency in English; and • Youth between 25 and 35 years of age at the time of application submission, although exceptional leaders younger than 25 will be considered. For detailed information about this unique opportunity for Africa’s most promising leaders, see our exclusive interview with Liz Berry Gips of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on page 33.
Criteria for selection include the following: • A proven record of leadership and accomplishment in public service, civic engagement or business and entrepreneurship. • A demonstrated commitment to public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship • The ability to work cooperatively in diverse groups and respect the opinions of others
• Strong social and communication skills • Good academic performance, with preference given to applicants with some university education • An energetic, positive attitude; and • A commitment to return to Africa and apply acquired leadership skills and training to benefit the applicant’s country, community, or school.
COVER 1
Washington Fellowship: Great for US – Africa Relations - Liz Berry Gips Liz Berry Gips, the coordinator of President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has the onerous responsibility of overseeing the YALI program in Africa. She also works and liaises with several other government agencies to ensure the success of what is described as a “longterm effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders and strengthen partnerships between the United States and Africa.” Daunting as the task may seem to the average person on the street, Gips bubbled with infectious enthusiasm as she discussed the initiative and shared its prospects and potential for Africa and the United States in this exclusive interview with USAfrica Journal. Excerpts: What is Young African Leaders Initiative all about? The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is one of President Obama’s main legacy initiatives and it is focused on developing and strengthening the next generation of African youths. It’s something that is very important to the President. During his recent trip to Africa in late June, he announced three big initiatives namely: Empower Africa, Trade Africa and YALI. One is around power, one is around trade while the third one is speaking to and working to develop the skills of the next generation of African youths. As the coordinator of President Obama’s YALI at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), what are your responsibilities? One of the things that I do is work closely with the White House and also with the State Department to coordinate this. USAID is leading the efforts to make sure that the leaders stay connected and continue to have their skills developed when they go back to Africa, so there’s a lot of thinking and
The program is scheduled to run for five years. Is there a plan in place to ensure its continuity even after President Obama leaves office? Right now, the timeline that we are planning for is the first five years of the Washington Fellowship but of course we hope that at the end of that time, this would really be a demonstrated success with a lot of support behind it and that it would continue. It’s definitely one of the things that President Obama sees as a legacy initiative and we hope it will continue beyond the initial five years but at this point, that’s what we are planning around.
Liz Berry Gips planning on how that looks when they are back in their respective countries. What kind of networking opportunities and what sort of professional development activities will be the most beneficial? One of the main attractions of the YALI program to the African community is the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Can you tell us more about this program? The Washington Fellowship is a new initiative that President Obama launched as part of the YALI, but it’s turning out to be the flagship program. The Washington Fellowship has a couple of broad goals, one of which is to strengthen ties between African youths and the United States. The second is to help those young African leaders build their skills so that they can strengthen their economy and democracy. Those are really the broad goals that we are working towards here.
their newly acquired knowledge and skills to “strengthen the economy” and further the cause of democracy in their respective countries? Actually, out of the 500 leaders, 100 will have the opportunity to have an internship in the United States while 400 will return to Africa but the investment does not end when they return to Africa. In fact, what is different about the Washington Fellowship is that it is intended to be a continued investment in young leaders. It doesn’t end when their exchange program is over. So when I mentioned the goal of strong ties with the United States and stronger skills, we see that being a continuum; we see that as not ending with the institute and summit in the United States but continuing in Africa with more opportunities for networking.
How do you plan to attain these goals? The way we are operationalizing the Washington Fellowship is to bring 500 young African leaders, between the ages of 25-35 from across sub-Saharan Africa starting summer of 2014. They would come to the United States to study leadership with a focus on one of three tracks: business entrepreneurship which is for young leaders from private sector; public sector management, for young leaders coming out of government and public sector agencies, and the third is civic leadership, intended for young leaders from non-profit sector. Those young leaders will spend six weeks at one of our top universities here. They’ll also come to Washington DC at the conclusion of their six week institute for a presidential summit. After their return to Africa, what are the strategies in place to ensure or at least assist them in actually using
Why are young African leaders in the Diaspora excluded from participating in the Washington Fellowship program? Programs always have certain parameters. President Obama launched this during his trip to Africa, and it was really designed to expose African youths living in Africa to the United States through our institutions of higher learning. We do hope though to find ways to connect the Diaspora to the Washington Fellowship and vice versa. Do you see any role now or in future for young Diaspora African leaders, especially those in the United States presently, in YALI? It is something that we are actively thinking about as we design the Washington Fellowship. We are hoping to find ways to connect the fellows when WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP continued on page 42 USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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YOUTH SCENE
Let’s share the blame By Renny Vonne | USA
M
iley Cyrus and Robin Thicke have been given so much hell for their supposed objectification of women in their music videos lately. Miley Cyrus was accused of using black women as sexual props while Robin Thicke was accused of implying that women are plastic and have “makers.” Poor Thicke, he came under even heavier attacks for using half naked girls in Blurred Lines video. Of course, this is not the first time that artistes would get chastised for objectifying women. Feminists readily pounce on such opportunities to write articles on how women need to “fight the males” and their chauvinistic tendencies, and stand up for women’s rights ad infinitum. I read these articles and I remembered how Nelly was also chastised for swiping a credit card
down the middle of a female dancer’s buttocks in his Hot in Here video. Generally, I laugh at the uproar from feminists chanting “woe to people debasing women.” And when people ask why I find these angry responses from feminists funny, my response is: Who forced the women to do these things? Who forced the black women with big butts to dance on stage with Miley Cyrus knowing fully well that Cyrus is going to spank their buttocks? Who forced the women in Blurred Lines to take off their shirts and run around in a ditsy manner with their boobs in the air? Didn’t the girl in the Hot in Here video actually suggest that Nelly swiped a credit card down her behind? These are the questions that need to be answered before people decide to rise up in some type of useless uproar
Thank Goodness! African Fusion Opens By Sadiat Makuna | USA
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f you are one of the many lovers of good African/Caribbean food in the East Coast, who have been wondering when the top notch taste and home cooked flavor of Goodness Catering’s dishes will be available in a family style restaurant where you can
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dine in or take out, I bring you good tidings. Take my word for it, your days of gatecrashing into parties just to savor the authentic taste of African, Caribbean and American food which Goodness Catering is noted for is over – finally!
about how Cyrus and other “white artistes” are using black women as sexual props. We all know that no one can force you to get on stage and be a prop if you don’t want to. Those women clearly knew what their roles in the performances were. They participated in multiple rehearsals before the show. And as much as feminists would like to point fingers at men for the objectification of women, we need to realize that women objectify women by allowing themselves to be objectified. It saddens me that advancement in women’s right seems to be taking a wrong turn these days. But since those women who allowed themselves to be “disrespected” willingly participated in these activities, we have very shaky legs (at best) to stand on for defense. Hit the road and head to the first state, Delaware State where African Fusion, the new restaurant owned and run by Folasade Fawehinmi, (who is also the proprietress of Goodness Catering) is spreading the good taste of motherland (and beyond) across the tri-state area. At the grand opening ceremony of African Fusion held at its Troubador Way, Newark, Delaware State location recently, guests were treated to a lavish menu of diverse dishes from the Caribbean and different parts of Africa. If you missed the free food galore at the opening ceremony, don’t worry, the same variety of lip-smacking delicacies are now on the menu. It’s just not free anymore!
Vonne Even apart from videos, magazines, and movies, women objectify women in many ways. Sometimes we judge ourselves based on empty, superficial things like types of hair, make up, purse, outfit, and shoes! If we are going to get mad at men and the rest of the world for objectifying women, we should first take a look at how we view ourselves.
ADVERTORIAL
New Beginning in North America
Mt. of Redemption Hosts Revival
C
hrist Apostolic Church (CAC), North America held a three-day revival in Philadelphia from November 15 to 17, 2013. Hosted by CAC of Pennsylvania, Mt of Redemption, Philadelphia, the threeday revival featured the anointed man of God, Reverend David Adenodi of CAC Vineyard of Comfort, Lanham, Maryland as the Revivalist. Highlights of the three-day revival included teaching, special prayers and anointing of the congregation by Reverend Adenodi at the Sunday Anointing service.
Ministers of God at the three-day revival themed God of New Beginning –Three Days of Divine and Supernatural Manifestation of God’s Power, included Pastor Solomon Oyeleke, the Chairman of the Eastern District Coordinating Council; Pastor Emmanuel Odeyale, Host Pastor and District Superintendent, Redemption District Philadelphia; Pastor Shoba Abiona, Mount of Glory, New Jersey; Pastors Chris Ogunleye and Michael Ajayi; Evangelists Samuel Adeshile, Sumbo Olorunesan, Fernon Flomo; and Lady Evangelist Grace Sonumesi of Mt. of Redemption, Philladelphia.
USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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INTERVIEW
Tk Besh - Betting On The Best Tokunbo Adebesin a.k.a. Tk Besh is daring. Not surprising though; it is in her genes. Her last name heralds the birth of the valiant one. Tk Besh is bold. That much you could tell by merely looking at some of the choices she’s made in life. Not just because she chose to go into print publishing, a rather precarious venture in this digital age, but her choice to focus on the positive, in a business where bad news is good news and yellow (junk) journalism is what rakes in revenue rapidly, screams ballsy! Despite the peculiar challenges and risks associated with such a seemingly foolhardy choice, Tk Besh is still walking the path she chose about a year ago. In this interview with USAfrica Journal, the publisher of Tkbesh! Intn’l headquartered in London, England told us why, how and many more. Who is Tk Besh? I am Tokunbo Adebesin and Tk Besh is short form of my name. Most people confuse Tk Besh with Tkbesh! but they are different; one is my name and the other is a magazine’s name. How do you transition from one to the other? Do you draw the line at some point or do you straddle both simultaneously? It really depends. Around my close family and friends, I am Tk Besh and in the business world, it’s Tkbesh! Journalism and business such as ours isn’t a seasonal thing. It is what you do continuously. I however enjoy both. Why did you go into publishing? Ever heard of the saying, Passion is powerful. Purpose is enduring. To-
I’m an old fashioned kind of woman who believes in traditional roles and morals of what people lived by back in the day of chivalry, courtesy, and that a man must treat a lady the way a lady should be treated. 36
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gether, they can help you move mountains? I have always had this passion to celebrate people and their successes. You could also attribute it all to the need to keep myself and the people around me informed. We all have choices about what we share and participate in and I chose to celebrate. What is the mission of TKbesh! Int’l? Tkbesh!’s mission is to keep our growing loyal readership always inspired with successful profiles from all professions around the world! What are the challenges so far and how do you deal with them? Availability of so much free contents on the web has made people so complacent that some have come to think everything should either be made free or should be online. Don’t get me wrong, people pay invaluably to get some online contents too which we are considering in the near future. Another challenge is one every young magazine faces; the insufficient adverts to barely cover the production costs and not very encouraging copy sales. We are working really hard on those challenges to get the best result, especially in the area of seeking more adverts from businesses. When you said; “I’ve had many challenges in my life, including some very big ones when I was young,” what exactly did you mean? Wow! You have read up on me, haven’t you? As I said earlier, growing up was fun and then not so much fun for me. Life is not the same for everybody. Some are very lucky to have everything go smooth for them all the way but my case was different. You really don’t want me going into details and to be honest, it does not matter anymore. Why did you describe yourself as a “very old fashioned woman?” Well I’m an old fashioned kind of woman who believes in traditional roles and morals of what people lived by back in the day of chivalry, courtesy, and that a man must treat a lady the way a lady should be treated. I never take anyone for granted. I know my place, what I want and how I want it. TK BESH continued on page 42
Business
Ghana, Mali, Others Consider Support for Cote d’Ivoire’s Energy Imports Climate Solutions
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nternational Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and Société Générale have co-arranged a $300 million facility for Cote d’Ivoire’s only oil refinery that will help guarantee a steady supply of critical energy imports for the country and its landlocked neighbors. IFC and Société Générale will each participate with up to $100 million in the facility for Societe Ivoirienne de Raffinage (SIR), which supplies effectively all of the refined petroleum products in Cote d’Ivoire as well as Burkina Faso, Mali, and other countries in western Africa. BNP Paribas and Standard Chartered Bank will also
participate in the financing. The structured trade facility will finance around $2 billion of oil imports over the next two years helping prevent interruptions in the fuel supply that could have a negative effect on Côte d’Ivoire and its redevelopment. By helping stabilize the regional energy supply, IFC and its partners believe this facility may help mitigate price spikes that drive up costs for both businesses and households and often have the most adverse effects on the poorest. The financing will also help SIR to regain access to the international financial markets. Source: IFC – The World Bank
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ith the support of African Development Bank (AfDB), six African nations – Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Mali and Mozambique – made it through a global competition run by the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) to provide dedicated funding to engage the private sector in ef-
fective climate solutions. The concepts endorsed for full project development in Africa focus on forests in Burkina Faso, DRC and Ghana; renewable energy in Kenya and Mali; and climate resilience in Mozambique. The multilateral development banks (MDBs) ran the fourmonth competition to provide funding to garner more effec-
World Bank Funds Projects in Senegal, Guinea, Others
T
he World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved US$228.5 million for a new push to boost water management in the Senegal River Basin and further improve the development prospects of Guinea, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal. More than 4.5 million people living within the
Senegal River Basin are expected to benefit directly from this multi-country project. During a visit last month to the Sahel by development leaders including the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, President Jim Yong Kim of the World Bank Group pledged $1.5 billion in new financing
tive private sector involvement in projects in renewable energy, sustainable forests, and climate resilience. The selected African project concepts – a third of the 15 final winning concepts globally – will now go forward for further development by the AfDB as their CIF implementing partner. Selected project concepts under the competition will now be fully prepared and will be presented for final funding to the CIF governing bodies in 2014. Source: AfDB/APO to support major regional development priorities such as social safety nets to help families weather the worst effects of economic adversity and natural disasters, improve infrastructure and create opportunities in rural areas with more hydropower and other sources of clean energy to greatly expand irrigation and transform agriculture. This is the first project under this new initiative. Source: The World Bank
USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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Immigration
Got Green Card? You May File For Your Relatives A s a permanent resident of the United States, you may help a relative become a lawful permanent resident based on your status. To do so, you will need to sponsor your relative and be able to prove that you have enough income or assets to support your relative(s) when they come to the United States. You begin the process by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Which relatives may I petition for? A permanent resident of the United States can file a petition for the following relatives: • Husband or wife; and • Unmarried child (ren), regardless of age. Note: Only U.S. citizens may petition for married children. When you submit your petition, you are required to provide evidence to
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prove your relationship to the person for whom you are filing.
What does the petition do for my relative? Filing an I-130 relative petition and proving a qualifying relationship gives your relative a place in line for a visa number among others waiting to immigrate based on that same kind of relationship from the same country or region. When your relative reaches the head of the line, he or she may be eligible to immigrate.
What about my relative’s family? In most cases, when your spouse’s place in line is reached, his or her unmarried children under 21 years old can follow to join the relative on the same visa petition. However, if an unmarried child turns 21 years old before reaching the “front of the line,” you will
need to file a new separate petition for each child included on the original petition. What if my unmarried child marries? A petition for an unmarried child will be automatically revoked if he or she marries, since there is no visa category for a married son or daughter of a permanent resident. However, if you become a US citizen before your child
marries, you can continue the immigration process by filing a new I-130 visa petition for your child. After I file, how long will it take before my relative can immigrate? For most relatives, the combination of high demand and the limits set by law on how many people can immigrate each year means that they may have to wait several years. When your relative reaches the front of the line, the U.S. Department of State contacts your relative and invites him or her to apply for an immigrant visa. Visit the USCIS website (www.uscis. gov) for more information. Source: USCIS.
ADVERTORIAL
CAC Mt. Pleasant of New York Says Ebenezer
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rom Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Mount Pleasant of New York, shouts of joy and Ebenezer filled the air as CAC members worldwide joined the church at its East Tremont Avenue, Bronx New York location to celebrate its 25th anniversary on December 1, 2013. In his anniversary message at the occasion graced by dignitaries and ministers of God from Nigeria, England and across North America, Pastor (Dr.) Solomon Oyeleke, Minister in Charge and Chairman, Eastern District Coordinating Council (EDCC), explained that the theme of the silver jubilee anniversary, Ebenezer, taken
from 1 Sam. 7:12, is indicative of silence over influences of enemies and the beginning of a prosperous seasons. The church later presented awards to families who have remained “continuously steadfast� since the establishment of the church 25 years ago and also to those who have at least 15 years of such meritorious service in the vineyard of the Lord. The family of late Pastor (Dr.) Joseph Adeyanju, who, with his wife, Mrs. Esther Adeyanju, founded the assembly in 1988, was honored with a special award for pioneering and leadership efforts.
USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
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SPORTS
English Premiership
Lukaku Leads; Chelsea’s Eto’o, Torres, Ba Follow Stories By Mark Finlay | Spain
If you have never heard of Romelu Lukaku, here is your wakeup call: Sit up and notice one of the hottest talents currently playing in the English Premier League. Born in Anderlecht, Belgium, Lukaku is the son of Zaire international, Roger Lukaku who moved to Belgium in the 1970s to play professional football.
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tion, Lukaku’s play lately is putting the spotlight on him. While famous Chelsea strikers such as Fernando Torres, Dembe Ba and Samuel Eto’o are struggling to find the back of the net, Lukaku, like a predator, seemingly strikes at will. He strikes fear into every club he comes up against as he did in the Liverpool derby recently by putting two goals past Liverpool and fellow Belgium international, Simon Mignolet. His tally after that match was seven goals in eight appearances. Certainly not bad for a player Chelsea sent out on loan for two consecutive seasons.
all the time,” Distin said. Though Lukaku is a big fan of former Chelsea player, Didier Drogba, Distin said he does not have to emulate Drogba, because he can be better than the Ivory Coast striker. At the moment there is controversy surrounding where he’s heading after the season. While Lukaku has said he would like to stay at Everton for another season, his manager at Chelsea had stated point blank that Lukaku’s future is not in his own hands. Meanwhile, Barcelona is lurking in the corner and plotting to get Lukaku to Spain. How this plays out is anybody’s guess at this time. What matters to Lukaku, Everton and the fans now is the monster keeps banging in the goals for Everton. And for that, Everton manager Roberto Martinez is a happy man. Photo Credit: www.independent.co.uk
L
ukaku’s interest in football began as early as age five. He made his professional debut for Belgium’s Anderlecht at 16. Speaking to the media recently, Lukaku said he’d always had a clear idea of where he wanted to be and when. “I told my mother that by the time I was 16, I would be playing in a first division team and she laughed,” Lukake recalled. “But 11 days after I turned 16, I made my debut for Anderlecht.” After a two-year run with Anderlecht, Lukaku kicked his way into his dream team, Chelsea FC. At 18, he signed a five-year deal with the Blues for around $27 million. “I dreamed of playing here since I was 10 years old,” he told the media recently. “It was just what I was searching for.” Joining the prestigious Chelsea team however didn’t quite produce the expected sparks. Not long after he set his boot on Chelsea’s turf, he was sent out on-loan to West Bromwich Albion for a season after spending the majority of his first year at Chelsea playing in the reserves. At West Brom, Lukaku’s fortune changed. By the end of the season, Lukaku, the idle hand from Chelsea, had outscored all his former team mates at Chelsea. He ended up as the league’s sixth-highest goal scorer of the season with a total of 17 goals. Surprisingly, instead of keeping him at Chelsea for the new season, Chelsea’s new boss, Jose Mourinho, sent Lukaku out on loan –again, this time to Everton for the season. With the season half way to comple-
“Week in, week out I try to give my best for the team and for my teammates and I am doing very well right now and I want to continue like that,” he said shortly after the Liverpool derby. His team mates at Everton are equally enjoying his company. While speaking to the Liverpool Echo newspaper, Everton’s defender, Sylvain Distin said: “Considering Romelu’s age, he has got all the qualities. He’s a monster. He’s learning game after game and has the right mentality.” “I was talking about his size and his weight with him a week ago. We’re more or less the same weight and to get there I had to work hard in the gym for four years. For him it’s just how he is when he wakes up. I wasn’t like that when I was 20. He’s physically blessed and his positioning on the pitch and finishing are improving
Lukaku
Demba Ba
Saido Berahino Saido Berahino’s name may not be ringing loud and across the continent yet, but his exploits on the field of play lately are getting him noticed. The 20-year-old West Bromwich Albion striker, who relocated from Burundi to UK with his mother and siblings at age 10, has had a banner start to the season scoring six goals that have attracted interest from AS Monaco and Arsenal. The Baggies are keen on nailing him down to a new contract before his current deal expires in summer, but with big clubs now noticing him, it is highly likely his agent will advise him not to renew his contract with West Bromwich.
Lacina Traore The 6ft 8in Ivorien, Lacina Traore joined the Russian premier League club, Anzhi Makhachkala for about $22.5 million in July 2012, but with the Russian club desperate to shed its big earners due to money troubles, Traore is expected to go for around half that amount. Liverpool is reportedly the front runner for his signature, especially now that Liverpool’s manager, Brendan Rodgers is looking for players that can be used right away to assist the Reds push for a top four finish and a place in next seasons Champions League. Whether Traore signs for Liverpool or not is still up in the air, but what is certain is, he will not be staying at Anzhi.
Photo Credit: www.foxsportsasia.com
Mangala
Traore
Berahino
Eliaquim Mangala Eliaquim Mangala is a French defender of Congolese decent. He currently plays for FC Porto in Portugal. The 22-year-old is on the radar of many top English Premiership clubs including Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal. Manchester United however looks poised to make a move in January by offering its Brazilian midfielder, Anderson as part of a deal that may bring Mangala to Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Barcelona is reportedly eyeing Mangala as well.
Nicolas N’Koulou, Nicolas N’Koulou plays for French Ligue 1 outfit, Olympique Marseille, and according to reports, he is one of the team’s most outstanding players since joining the club from Monaco in 2011. The 23-year-old center-back has made 40 appearances for Cameroon and is being tipped as a star of the future. However, with Marseille now out of this season’s Champions League, Arsenal, Napoli, or his old club, Monaco is set to come knocking during the January transfer window.
N’Koulou
USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com
Photo Credit: www.uefa.com
Photo Credit: www.merdeka.com
Chelsea’s Senegalese striker, Demba Ba is almost certainly on his way out of Stamford Bridge following his inability to get a starting place in manager Jose Mourinho’s starting XI. Moreover, he has only managed one goal all season in Champions
League action against Bundesliga club, Schalke. His preferred choice appears to be Turkey’s Besiktas but one can’t rule out Spanish La Liga’s Valencia. The club is said to be prepared to pay the 28-year old 8.5 million euros. Another possibility for Ba is a loan move to West Ham or Arsenal.
New Year, New Clubs?
Photo Credit: www.telegraph.co.uk
Demba Ba
suspension. Loan deals are also part of the game at this time of the year. Moreover, many African players whose countries would be participating in the World Cup in Brazil next summer are eager to get more playing time and thus increase their chances of representing their countries at the finals. Here are some African players in Euro league who may be shifting base to another club for one reason or the other in the New Year.
Photo Credit: www.kubadle.com
W
hile the world is busy getting its groove on for the festive season, it’s a different ball game entirely for soccer fans across Europe. ‘Tis the season to speculate about which player goes where during the January transfer window. Many top clubs in the English Premier League are already on the prowl looking for players that would add value to their teams, especially now that they know positions that need filling or where coverage is needed in case of injury or
SPORTS
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CONTINUED RISING LIKE continued from page 7
Using her country, Rwanda as an example of the importance of unification within, Prof. Mukantabana, said despite the genocide that led to the destruction of not just human lives but also ethos, mores and institutions in the country, “what matters most is “Rwanda moved forward.” And she’s right. The stench of decomposing bodies on the streets of Kigali 19 years ago has given way to the sweet smelling aroma of success and progress in virtually every facet of Rwanda’s checkered history. On erstwhile blood soaked land littered with decapitated cadavers, shattered skulls and mangled bones; thriving businesses, educational institutions, health facilities have taken root and sprouted forth for all to see.
“What we need are people who are driven, not just to attend conferences but also to translate those conferences in framing the global wealth of the continent and to implement action that would in turn benefit the continent.”
Judging by reports from the World Bank, several global health organizations, reputable investigative journalists, and heads of governments worldwide, Rwanda has moved from the depth of destruction to the enviable position of what is now hailed worldwide as an economic model for the developing world. And the question, as always is how did it happen? How did a land-locked, agrarian 42
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economy country ravaged by genocide move from zero to a promising tomorrow in such a short period? “Rwanda is successful because of people coming together to reconcile and participate in economic development,” Prof. Mukantabana explained. “It is because the people did not just focus and employ the capitalistic way of development but also invest into the development process, the core principle of who we are. Rwanda’s development is as a result of our ability to reach the people; work from the bottom up and to make them part of what we are doing as a nation.” But how did a nation which, in the words of President Bill Clinton at the TED conference in 2007, “almost slaughtered itself out of existence” get inspired and unified to achieve so much in so short a time? “Our President, Kagame who is a visionary leader, is the wind beneath our wings,” Prof. Mukantabana said without missing a breath. “People have dreams but those dreams have to be translated into reality. He said Africa cannot remain on the margin when we have the people and the resources to make it a key player in the world. The Rwandan society is developing because he had the vision, and the vision is being implemented as we forge ahead.” Regardless of what cynics may say, Prof. Makantabana sees African countries developing and taking steady strides towards attaining a developed status. “When you look at how far Rwanda has come, especially with our Vision 2020 plan, we are almost there; meaning that we are developing. This is not just in Rwanda; I just used Rwanda as an example. We still have challenges but they are being taken care of.”
January – March 2014
WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP continued from page 33
they are here in the US with Diaspora leaders when they are at the six-week institute and also as some of them participate in internships. So we are actively trying to find ways to engage the Diaspora with the Washington Fellowship. The world is proclaiming “Africa Rising.” In what ways can YALI contribute to this new narrative about Africa? I was lucky to have spent the last three and half years in Africa and I absolutely felt that sense of growth and excitement in Africa rising every single day. I think YALI is very much based on that recognition. Africa’s economy is growing, democracy is getting stronger, and the African youths are playing critical roles in that. YALI is very much focused on giving young leaders the skills they need so that they can be part of this really positive trajectory. As important as it is for young leaders to build their skills, it is equally important for them, while they are here to help Americans better understand what’s going on in Africa. How would you describe the response of the Young African leaders to this initiative? The response has just been overwhelmingly enthusiastic and positive. Also, the enthusiasm that we are getting from business leaders who also want to be part of this is great. They want to tap into this TK BESH continued from page 36
By the way, who is an old fashioned woman? An old fashioned woman likes to take care of the family. She is dedicated to keeping a happy family! An old fashioned woman likes to party too and go out and have fun in company of her man or family but only when the time is right. Do you still see yourself as a “lone ranger?” Now you are cracking me up with this! I wouldn’t even know how to answer you without offending those who have stood by me through the thick and thin of it all. Let’s just say that I can be when I need to be and I have been when times called for it. My immediate family is very supportive and understanding. I have a great man who makes the world revolve around me and makes me happy a great deal. You said of marriage; “I did celebrate it and embrace it. But not sure if I want it or even believe in it again.” Is that etched in
incredible pool of next generation African youths and find ways to introduce them to their organizations and to bring them into their work. How challenging has this been for you? The great opportunity is its starting scale. We’re starting with 500 young leaders coming next summer and that frankly is a challenge. We are doing a startup initiative and we are starting at a significant scale. So that’s kind of the obvious challenge. The other great potential of YALI is we are working across agencies. We are trying to tap into the strength of the USAID, as well as the US State Department and other agencies, so that’s something we are working hard to do well. So what do you see in the future of YALI and Washington Fellowship? I think it’s an incredible opportunity for US-Africa relation. I think as a result of these 500 individuals coming here and going to the many corners of the US, meeting a lot of Americans from various parts of the society, people from the universities to local leaders, and coming back to Washington and meeting with national leaders, an opportunity to strengthen relations, and capture that incredible power that happens when you connect people as individuals will emerge from this. For more information and how to apply, visit the YALI website at http://youngafricanleaders.state.gov/washingtonfellows/how-to-apply/ stone or you are still evolving as far as that stance is concerned? Definitely not carved in stone. Is anything ever anyway? Life is what happens to you while you are busy making other plans. So, I wouldn’t say etched in stone but time shall considerably tell. What drives you – as a person, writer and publisher? I have always been driven to achieve. Meeting set targets within deadlines is something I strive to do. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and it’s something that I can look back at and say, “I achieved that”. Anything else on your mind that you want to offload? Something I said earlier. “Passion is powerful. Purpose is enduring and together, they can help you move mountains.” No matter how high, impossible and unreachable your goals seem today, sooner or later you will reach them if you stay focused.
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