UT California/Intl:
FEATURES Living Fearlessly, Loving Unconditionally Pick Up the Damn Phone to Get More Clients!
Ruthy Valdez- 15 The Writers Block-14 Travel Tyme: Spring/Summer Travel
Men’s Fashion Notes Poet/Designer: Seed the Poet
Luc Lang -22 Claudia Nelson-23
TheBay2SA #SA2TheBay:
pg 62
Drinkin Vegan!
Spring Grace Kgaogelo Lekalakala 30
30.
The Art of MARIO RENE 34 A celebration of the word Sabata-mpho Mokae 36 Iyaba Mandingo’s
14
38 Kgomotso Neto Tleane 39 Olatunde Barber 41 Turay Mederic 43
AYO Solanke 45 Mahenza 49 TheBay2SA #SA2TheBay:
Matete Motsoaledi A Day in History: Rhodes Statue Removed in Cape Town
43.
issue
Follow us on:
ANTYMES@HOT RB U : AT US CT TA N CO AM! TERNS JOIN THE TE IN , S ER PH RA G O OT WRITERS, PH
MAIL.COM
- ESSENTIALS Life - Health - Beauty - Business - Finances paralyzes the thought process and hinders the mind from being active in furthering visions and goals. It gives an inner tremor that if not recognized early, will become an outer manifestation of non-productivity, procrastination, and delay.
Living Fearlessly, Loving Unconditionally by Lakita D. Long (The People’s Therapist) “When you decide to make a choice towards forward progression, you strangle fear.” (L.Long)
Living Fearlessly is a result of Loving Unconditionally. The person that you love first has to be yourself. So often we are looking forward to pleasing other people, but when we have not made good on our own promises, and goals, there is an inward struggle to correct that but often times comes out in poor ways towards others. When I speak of “living fearlessly”, I am not talking about being without thought, or being reckless, but I am implying that you make a decision to do something in the direction and results of your goals.
When you hear the words “living fearlessly”, what comes to mind? Do you see yourself living uninhibited by the “what could happens” and just being free to believe, go after, do it and see it come to full fruition? Well I believe that you can live this life. It requires a mindset that is what Dr. Carol Dweck says is a Growth Mindset, one that is not riddled about what did not happen, or dwelling on the negatives of what did happen, but being able to learn from every experience as a potential growth encounter. Your life even though you may live it for yourself, is really not your own. Even if you don’t have kids, or even a family, you are living to leave a legacy and you can’t do that if you live in fear, and love CONDITIONALLY. It is only when we love without limits, and hope without deferment that we reap the benefits and the rewards of living fearlessly and loving unconditionally. There is a flow and an inner glow and joy that resonates when you love deeply, and without reserve. Fear justifies why you should not love, but unconditional love hopes beyond the temptation to cut off the intimacy needed to create a successful connection.
I am hoping that you are taking life in its everyday possession, but refusing to be held hostage Did you know that most people are held hostage by the fear that happens when you don’t make a decision to move in now, and go forward. There by fear because they don’t make a decision are always reasons why we stay where we are, I about something? And it’s in the non decision just pray that your reason is big enough to justify that creates the panic because you have left so how you will respond 2 years from now, when many options open, that need direction. But you needed to be somewhere else, but choose when you really love yourself, and understand that we have this one life to live, then we have to to stay put? You don’t have to live in the make a conscious choice to live better, and withInspired Blessings to you! out the fear of what “might” will happen. Fear
6.
Business
Kim Kirmmse Toth I realize that's a pretty bold title but I am serious about this. Attempting to build a business only doing things on-line will be like taking that "Slow boat to China" I know it feels hard. You know it feels hard, but do it anyway. Most people don't pick up the phone, which is why it is so powerful. It's like most people don't send mail through the post office, which is also more powerful than an email. The reality is, when you DO get the guts to call someone, you will most likely get a voice mail. So, do you hang up? Do you leave a long message about what you are calling them about?
ber. I would do this twice, especially the phone number. No one likes to go back and have to listen to a message again to get the phone number. And as you know many people leave their phone number at the beginning of the message which means you always have to go back and listen again. Now, I know you are probably thinking, Kim, this is so simple, everyone does this. And I am here to tell you, no they don't. Practice, practice, practice this! You want to come across professional, strong and confident. The chances of someone getting back to you after one call is pretty small so be prepared to have 2 or 3 follow up calls Feature Articles, each different. You can leave another message after 3 5 business days. This helps the likeliness of them calling you back much higher. Don't wing these calls! You need to have a series of voice messages all written out and practiced. You will feel much better about making the calls and will come across on the phone with much greater confidence. My mother always used to say 'phone voices are very revealing' and she was right.
This is just one small piece of how to increase your clients and fill your groups by Here is something I have learned. picking up the phone but I hope it's Say your name and your business name enough to get you started. You WILL grow and say it s l o w l y. I get so many messages where people talk so fast I have no your business if you do this properly!! @2014 Kim Kirmmse Toth / All rights reidea who they are or what their business is and I don't like to have listen to messag- served es over and over to understand. When this ABOUT THE AUTHOR happens I usually hit 7 for delete. Kim Kirmmse Toth LCSW, PCC mentors Say in a sentence or two what you are entrepreneurial 'women after 50' on how calling about. Tease them about someto build a business around your life, in thing you have that you think might be a perfect fit for them. Your message should part-time hours, to ensure your financial be no longer than 2 minutes. One minute freedom & safety in your retirement years. Get her FREE series on how you can do is best. this also athttp://positiveaginginc.com Next you want to give them a 'call to action'. You want them to call you back. Then say your name and business s l o w l y and do the same with your phone num-
7.
- URBANITY -
Ethear Aeylward 10.
11.
prize for the Sapphire Bombay Artisan contest and won two tickets to Russell Simmons Art for Life Event at the Hampton.
Upcoming Exhibitions: 1. On April 25th I completed a recycle able art project for the Harlem Park to Park Earth Day celebration at MorningSide Park at 113 street, Harlem NYC
Featuring
Is a self-taught
12.
artist known for enigmatic figures and dreamlike backgrounds that are reminiscent of lucid dreaming. In the last 14 years, she has created her own unique artistic voice while captivating viewers with her vivid acrylic colors and intelligent subjects. Valdez’ work has been seen on the background of cable television shows like VH1’s Black Ink and Food Network Special Savor Harlem and published in newspapers like The New York Daily News, Manhattan Times and Harlem Times. In 2012 and 2013 Valdez’ paintings were seen at Miami Art Basel. In 2013, she also won the grand
2. NoMAA - Women In the Heights: The Human Essence Exhibition At 5030 Broadway NYC from March 26 through May 7, 2015 3. 67 Orange- Unveiling a new series At 2082 Frederick Douglas Blvd, Harlem NYC from April 30 through June 11, 2015
Email: ValdezRuthy@Gmail.com website: www.RuthyValdez.com Instagram: The _Curly_Surrealist Twitter: Ruthy_Valdez Facebook Fan PG: https://www.facebook.com/RuthyValdez333 ?ref=hl
Prelude, Acrylic on Canvas, 24" x 36", 2014
BLOCK The Writers’
with the marriage, but I had to go into overdrive on catching up! I couldn’t wait, time was moving and my biological clock was racing against time and I needed a baby now! I needed for my life to continue to flow perfectly, because I was a Christian woman! I had been taught that you didn’t complain or ask Jesus any questions, because He has been good to me. I kept the I was a very secretive person growing up. I had been perfect smiles while enduring internal pain, hurts, and depression on my Christian journey. I faked the funk taught not to tell my business to anyone. Whatever I that everything was alright with me because I had went through, I had to deal with it and I Jesus Christ on my side. I was a woman burning with did…internally. My childhood was ‘normal’. No abuthe desire to become a mother and continuing to stay sive parents, no drugs/excessive alcohol, no misa good wife, daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, haps, just the regular life of being the first born auntie, friend, colleague, and more. I was a woman sibling. My mom taught me how to cook, sew, clean, be creative, take care of people, and NOT to depend not loving herself and realizing that she needed more; realizing that my life was indeed NOT perfect beon a man for anything! My dad taught me how to change my oil, work on cars, drive a ‘stick shift’, shoot cause I forgot to include God, on my Christian walk. a gun, start a business, and NOT to depend on a Woman on Fire is my testimony of how God man for anything! That was my life from birth unchanged my life through the spiritual rededication and til…… the fire….until I started smelling smoke! I berestoration of my mind and spirit. It’s not a typical digan to think back to those infamous words….”where vorce, husband-bashing tale or a ‘self-help’ guide. I’m there’s smoke, there’s fire.” That’s when I realized no expert on how to make your life better! Woman on that I was already in the midst of an inferno. Fire won’t be able to give you 5, 10, or 20 steps to a more successful you! Woman on Fire will give you Having my signature “E3” dream of being an Entertainer, Educator, and Entrepreneur were my goals, in my testimony of how I went through the fire and came that order. But the most ultimate dream of all was to out shining like new brass; overcoming depression, feelings of defeat, being barren, divorced and become a perfect wife and a perfect mother. My shamed. Given with my heart’s desires a new meanlife plan was to have my name in bright, neon lights by my late teens and/or early 20’s, marry by 26, have ing… to become a Godly wife, a Godly Mother, and more! He is the Head of my new ‘perfect’ life. my first child by 28, become a Dr. of Psychology by 30, have my second child by 32, and one more by 34. By the age of 35, I would have been complete! Trinette Collier Husband, children, home, luxury car, church lady, career (including an impressive resume), and more! I Woman on Fire Freedom Ink Publishers thought life was supposed to be perfect. Website: www.freedomink365.com/meettheauthors In 2001, I was close to my ultimate dream of becom- Email:womanonfire.tpe@gmail.com ing the perfect wife and the perfect mother. I married a man not chosen by God but by me. Although I was way off my life plan, I knew I could get on track
14.
BLOCK The Writers’
Quinton Morgan’s “Male Baggage” My vision My responsibility is to continually help improve all aspects of our relationships from a, social, economic, emotional, and spiritual aspect - creating a better tomorrow than today. My vision is put into action through books and videos a focus on better relationships to benefit society, and a commitment to build a better, community, and social environment. This is a book that I wrote in order to break down, in a metaphorical sense, the baggage and burdens that men bring into relationships. http://malebaggage.yolasite.com/
Now available as EBook!!! www.tinyurl.com/lmghv76 and Print on Amazon http://tinyurl.com/ksmcqlp
15.
The Writers’
BLOCK
A Girl’s Journey: There's No Crying In Baseball
thing out of the "normal confines of society and she decides she wants to play baseball.” This book is 32-pages long (the story is 24 pages). It includes 24 illustrations and the additional pages include a sight word list, a challenge word list and open-ended questions to share with children to engage them in a discussion.
Book Excerpt is a children’s book illustrating the character and integrity of a young trailblazer. My name is Pamé- At dinner Mom, Dad, Leiyah and her brothers: la Tate-Roger, the author of this ground-breaking Peyton and Naim, talked about her decision to project and mother of this young trailblazer play baseball instead of softball. named Leiyah. Her brother Peyton said, “Yeah, you should try The book out. You are better than is based upon my half the guys who are daughter’s experience trying out anyway.” in becoming the first female baseball player Her older brother Naim was at her middle school in concerned and really wantSan Francisco, Califored to support her decision nia. In addition that, to play, but he also knew she became the first that it would be rough and female baseball player that she may not get the to ever play in a support she needed from SFUSD Boys Middle her team. “I wish you would School Baseball play with the girls. We Championship and know that you can play ultimately she became baseball, but it would just the first female player be easier to play softball to ever play on a and you wouldn’t have to SFUSD Middle School fight so hard to be acceptBoys Championship ed.” Baseball Team in 2012. This groundLeiyah looked sad, when breaking life event was her brother told her to play written for the purpose softball, then Naim said, of teaching children “But I support your decision and families about forto play baseball. You have titude, integrity, gender roles and the concept of to remember you are going to deal with some team. mean kids. Boys are not going to be nice just because you are a girl. Your team doesn’t have to The world has undergone such drastic changes in like or accept you because you are a girl. Everyhow gender roles are formulated and shaped day you will have to prove yourself. Remember within the last couple of decades. Women have the most important rule – THERE'S NO CRYING made great strides in civil, academic and profes- IN BASEBALL!” sional arenas, however many areas remain maledominated. A Girl’s Journey: There's No Crying In Baseball is written to illustrate how destructive bullying and antiquated stereotypes can be, as well as how growth and strength comes from hard work and perseverance when a girl decides do some-
16.
http://www.divabooksinconline.com
TYME
Hawaii – Waikiki Beach Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Valid for travel by June 30, 2015 This oceanfront resort is located on 22 acres on beautiful Waikiki Beach. The Hilton Hawaiian Village® Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect mix of exceptional hotel accommodations and classic Hawaiian hospitality. Throughout the resort, there are lush tropical gardens, waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and stunning artwork. $1,354 per person for 5 nights includes roundtrip air from, and resort view accommodations.* Requires a booking deposit of $200 per person and balance is due 45 days prior to travel.
Meochia Clayton Travel Consultant, My Times Travel, LLC p:904-383-0874 | e:meochia@mytimes travel.com | w:http:/www.mytime stravel.com |
Jamaica – Montego Bay Riu Palace Jamaica– Adults Only Valid for travel by May 30, 2015 Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the Riu Palace Jamaica is an all-inclusive, adults-only (18 years old and older) resort situated on the clear waters and white-sands of Mahoe Bay. Relax by the pool or the beach bar, indulge in a massage at the Renova Spa, enjoy water activities or play golf at one of four golf courses nearby. Riu Palace Jamaica also offers guests five the med restaurants, three bars, a nightclub and live evening entertainment. $1,250 per person, for 4 nights includes roundtrip air and all inclusive junior suite garden view accommodations.*
18.
19.
Style and Fashion
Style and Fashion
Reigning From Los Angeles California, Seed the Poet has always been an all around artist from her poetry, to her paintings and now designing. She embraces all sides of her creativity shamelessly. Seed has been making jewelry for the past two years. "Hail of a jewel" (her line)has been on consignment In a Los Angeles boutique "Mama Sunshine treasures for one of those years." Seed is now taking her line into a different direction with Urban Tymes magazine, hoping to gain exposure. “ I want to launch my line with a new attitude,� she says. "My style now is like a boss chick eclectic style, feathers and chains wire and thangs." Seed expects her line to go very far this year, becoming synonymous with creativity and uniqueness. If you would like to check out her vivacious eclectic line go to www.Hailofajewel@etsy.com or email seed at seedofpoetryink@yahoo.com
20.
Luc Lang
into the world music scene as a songwriter Luc Lang has never been much of a stranger to the work ethic that is now putting once considered dreams, close within reach. Just as any 15 year overnight successes go, he is still busy at work on his next project with the kind of dedication that suggests he is just getting started! According to him he IS just getting started though. Luc started writing music at the age of 12, with aspirations of being a
dent. After several years and an extensive catalogue the songs started to circulate (special thanks to Jackson Ellis of JE Media) and sessions with other artist became regular. One particular session with friend singer/songwriter Lena Ro, Luc penned "Heartbeat" an up-tempo hard hitting R&B smash that eventually caught the attention of Mr. Sef a well-known producer/hit maker out of Richmond CA. Mr. Sef invited Luc to be a part of his brand GGI Ent in January of 2013. Luc was afforded many opportunities to network with other talented
singer/songwriter until the material began to suggest that multiple artists would be needed as it became increasingly diverse. With passions ablaze he helped form Bermuda Triangle Music in 2008, with label mate and close friend Jason Hall AKA Ron Axi-
writers and artists through his involvement with GGI Ent. Luc's wife is originally from the Johannesburg area of South Africa and the couple decided to move there with new son, in 2014. While there Luc was able to network with many South African
hip hop artists introduced to him by his wife and now while back in the states for the next few months has decided to connect South Africa's hip hop group PMB with a few of Richmond CA's top hip hop artists and form #TheBay2SA a collaborative effort with the end goal result of creating unity and smearing geographic & cultural lines with music.as if this was not enough, mid-stream through this process Luc was contacted by Emmanuel and Hiriam of Y.B.M. Young Brilliant Moguls a division of The Artist Factory Atlanta and welcomed aboard as a San Francisco CA / Johannesburg based represe ntative/ songwriter for the soon to be global brand. Move after move has this upcoming songwriter’s blessing starting to stack up high. Soon Luc will be high too! High in the sky on the flight back to Johannesburg SA to be reunited with what he loves the most his 2 year old son Bophelo (means "Life" in Sotho language) and beautiful wife Eustacia. After all nothing compares to family!
22.
Currently an independent fashion model with an impressive homegrown fan base she is stepping into the R&B music world and toting her fan base along with her. "Amnesia" was born when songwriter Luc Lang approached Claudia about music he was currently penning. He simply requested her to demo the material but upon hearing Amenesia Claudia was immediately drawn to it, identified with it and requested it to be released as her single. Mr Sef was approached in the matter and agreed to help put the song together to make it a certified hit! Amnesia is expected to rush swiftly through Bay Area cities and leave listeners with a woozy feeling in anticipation on what will come next from Miss Claudia Nelson.
23.
Claudia Nelson
The Bay Area is about to blessed with "amnesia" the title of rising starlet Claudia Nelson's sweet sounding melodic single slated to be released late April 2015. The single release is a collaborative effort by the young starlet, who teamed up with hit maker Mr Sef and songwriter Luc Lang to cook up what will be her first single as an R&B artist.
TheBay2SA #SA2TheBay collaborative effort:
Will soon expose South African Hip Hop artists PMB A group comprised of Styles, Sboniso "Mic G" Ngubane, and several other rappers in the Johannesburg area of South Africa to a United States platform. The Bay Area California's own Nio the Gift, Young Ziggy, Chizle, and producer/beatmaker/rapper Mr Sef have teamed up with the South African Hip Hop group to promote a global type of unity and make music that will impact 2 places in the world at the same time. With the release of the collab song expected sometime in May of 2015, both crews are excited to see what the outcome will be from joining forces and smearing geographical and cultural lines. From a musical standpoint these lines were always made to be crossed and this type of cross could prove to be very profitable for both groups in a way that transcends money. Before we dive too far into the details of the game, let’s take a brief moment to get acquainted with the players. The United States team
Nio the Gift :
24.
NIO Tha Gift's (born Antonio Ramos) music career began early at the age of 14 years old, recording his first songs and making appearances on local Mixtape compilations. By 2006 NIO had established his own entertainment company, SNF Ent.(Succeed Never Fail) and was rapidly rising to the forefront of the Bay Area music scene. His debut album, “Blood, Sweat and Triumph” was considered a classic as was the single and video (directed by Taj) entitled “Superstar.” That propelled the then 18 year old into the history books. When he became the First U.S. Independent HIP HOP Artist to ever perform and distribute an album in China. Though his stay in Guangzhou was a brief 2 weeks, he toured the Southeastern Province and performed at the International Entertainment and Audio Fair which led to 100,000 pre-orders in 24 hrs. His face graced the Front Page of the Guangzhou Daily which was delivered to 33 million homes. He also graced the cover of newsstand mags, 16 million were delivered. With a fan base and a solid foundation laid, the Hip Hop sensation, known as NIO Tha Gift, has been in high demand ever since.
2014 Chizle released his biggest project to date "Parental Advisory II" with mass digital distribution along with this project As an independent artist, Young Chizle Chizle released his first official visuals inhas worked on several projects: the first cluding "Sweet Jones", "Grammy", & being t Omayga's "I Am Not A Hipster" "California" all available globally on Youfeaturing Dj Ambidekstres released in Tube . January 2015 started with Young 2009, and then featured on the "Pure" Chizle releasing his 4th solo mixtape mixtape with DJ H Holla and D.Bledsoe paired with his official DJ DJ TNT "InDaSreleased in 2013. treetTape" also had a visual attached to it. The Song "Know the Name" features nevYoung Chizle also recorded duel collabo- er before seen birds eye views of the bay ration with Omayga called "Untamed Deand also available Globally on YouTube bauchery" which was released in 2011. In Young Chizle brings a hard core street 2012 Young Chizle released his first solo sound with productions by: mixtape "16th letter". He soon followed it The Lab Rats hailing from Virginia with his second solo mixtape "Parental Don Wattz, Sonic Sounds, and Advisory". Young Chizle has also released Mr. SEF, all hailing from California a new mixtape "The Takeover" mixed by DJ TNT.
Chizle :
25.
26.
Young Ziggy brings to the music industry a raw street perspective of life from the inner Mason Gilbert Jr known in the music industry cities filled with addiction, crime, gangs, death as Young Ziggy is a 26 year old recording artand everything else you can imagine may ist Raised in Richmond CA. Young Ziggy was happen being raised in Richmond CA . Curinfluenced by the likes of 2Pac, Scarface and rently Young Ziggy has released a series of the early recordings of Lil Wayne and the Hotsolo mixtapes "leader of the new school" and boys. He begin writing raps at the young age "leader of the new school 2" both being acof 10 after witnessing his older sibling writing cepted well in the bay area with singles from raps at his parents’ house one night. leader of the new school 2 receiving radio Young Ziggy first recorded at the age of 16 play. Young Ziggy has recently started his own with the group YOUNG DUNNY'Z in 2004independent label with his uncle and Bay area 2005 with exclusive production by Big Time underground rap legend 3HMB called The DySimon of San Francisco. After some differencnasty Muzik Group and will be dropping future es with the group Young Ziggy went solo and projects under the label. was featured on numerous projects affiliated with Eddi Projex label Pay Roll Family. Since You can contact Young Ziggy for interviews then Young Ziggy has been making a name for and music related business at his self as what some may consider a real rap youngziggy.tdmg@gmail.com or on twitter at type of artist. @youngziggy
Young Ziggy :
Born and raised in The Bay Area and started recording at the age of 14 with local SF indie label: 3 Reasons Entertainment (3RE). He is currently working on a debut album with guest appearances by Nappy Roots,Keak Da Sneak,T Pain,Diligentz and Lil Fizz of B2K are scheduled to appear on the album.
Collab story continued on page
27.
Drinkin’ Vegan by: April D. Richmond With the Vegan movement gaining momentum daily, it’s time to take a look at something that is surprisingly un-vegan, WINE! To the chagrin of many Vegans, most wines fall under the category of “no- no”. What causes wine to not make the Vegan cut, and how can you get around this technical foul? Let’s take a look at some surprising facts and safe wines.
Sauvignon that pair with everything from Vegan mac n cheese to Vegan chili! Their flavors are exactly what you would expect from said wines, and most wouldn’t suspect they’re drinking anything other than delicious wines with fruit forward aroma and well-balanced blends. If you’re not Vegan, but want to take a stab at animal free wines there is something out there for every palate. Try purchasing Vegan wines that are the equivalent to what you normally drink then branch out from there! Here is a list of wineries specializing in wines free of animal based fining agents.
Believe it or not, animal products are commonly used in most wines during the fermenting process to remove proteins, yeast and cloudiness often found in wine. These “fining agents” used in the production Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards: of wine include blood and bone www.coopershawkvineyards.com ; marrow, casein (milk protein), 519738HAWK chitin (fiber from crustacean China Bend Winery: shells), egg albumen (derived www.chinabend.com ; from egg whites), fish oil, gela18007006123 tin (protein from boiling animal Fitzpatrick Winery: www.fitzpatrickwinery.com ; parts), and isinglass (gelatin 18002459166 from fish bladder membranes). Frey Winery: www.freywine.com ; 18007603739 If you’re cringing at this point, Organic Vintners: www.organicvintners.com ; not to worry, there is short list of 8002163898 wineries stepping ahead of the Organic Wine Company: game and producing organic, www.veganwinesonline.com ; 1888ECOWINE 100% Vegan wine! These winSeghesio Family Vineyards: www.seghesio.com ; eries use non-animal based al8667344374 ternatives like Carbon, Smithfield Wine: vegetable plaque and Limestone as fining agents. The www.petamall.com/PLPShop.asp?RecordID=71 ; +44 biggest challenge is finding these wine jewels in a sea (0161) 273 6070 of unsuspecting vino! The Vegan Vine Wines: http://theveganvine.com/ 1800ITSWINE The most notable Vegan wine on the market today is Thumbprint Cellars: www.thumbprintcellars.com ; also listed on the celebrity wine owner list. It hails from 7074332393 none other than retired NBA champ, and Brooklyn ### native John Salley who is an outspoken advocate for April Richmond is a Certified Sommelier, Wine Educathe Vegan lifestyle. He recently partnered with Vegan tor and Wine Writer based in Vine Wines and has quickly become the new face of Northern California. She is the owner of Sip & Swirl all things Vegan. So far, they’ve produced a Chardon- Events. nay, a Sauvignon Blanc, a red blend and a Cabernet
29.
Grace Kgaogelo Lekalakala
compile photo shoots for their models. They market their models to potential clients using professional, I am 26 years of age, live in a elegant and high quality photos. small town Brits[north-west] It has been a humbling, great journey in SA. I am a mother of 2 filled with lots of opportunities for me. beautiful girls, and have a For example I was a finalist for Miss National Diploma in Labour Heritage South Africa 2014, and I’ve Relations. worked with Jadestyle You as model advertising on Tshwane TV. I see myself as a honest loyal humble kind of a Modeling has always been my person who can't tolerate passion, but I did not have enough inconsiderate people as I personally strive to reach out courage to pursue it. A lesson learned from my experience is it's to the disadvantaged in any never too late to pursue and live your given way I can. passion, be free to acknowledge who you are, strive to get where you want I have scars and I have a history, and know that every- regardless of negativity surrounding you. thing in life that is good is never simple. I am an African phenomenal woman, I always see myself as a warrior, I am strong and fearless, I live with who adores the simple things in life. courage and compassion in my heart, I wear my confidence like a I started my modeling career in shield to deflect all negativity, I AM February 2014, registered with Goodman’s Touch Modeling Agen- ON A MISSION TO ACHIEVE LIVE MY DREAMS! cy, owned by Goodman Bongani Mavimbela. God did not create us to be average, Goodman's Touch Modeling Agency is the best modeling agency we were created to excel in PTA. It's a company that is fully owned and operated by young black people who are very innovative, Designed by Jadestyle You creative and very artistic. The brand Make-up and hair done by is named after Goodman the CEO of Jadestyle You. the company, who named it Photographer : Tshwane Studio Goodman's Touch because he believed that through his hands he can make a huge change in young peoples' lives who have passion in modeling. He also wanted to create opportunities for the youth who wish to be in the entertainment industry, and he wanted to contribute in the building of the economy of this country. This agency is different from any other because they style their models with their own clothes, use the best makeup artists to make their models look professional and marketable, and they even use the very best photographers to My name is Grace Kgaogelo Lekalakala.
31.
The Writers’
32.
BLOCK
Must Reads!!!
The Writers’
BLOCK
33.
Nuestra joven pintura . la prensa literaria . 6 de mayo de 1989. nicaragua Despejando el enigma de la incógnita . nuevo amanecer cultural. Walter Caracas,26 de enero de 199. Nicaragua Frutas objetos-sujetos. Patricia González. Semanario: Esta Semana. 22 al 28 de octubre de 1991. Costa Rica . _Pintores Nicaragüense :Mario Madrigal-Arcia , La Prensa Literaria. Rodolfo Cerdeño. 4 junio de1994 , Nicaragua Pintores Nicaragüenses . la prensa literaria , 28 de agoTEXTOS SOBRE LA OBRA Y ENTREVISTAS. sto de 1993 Dra. Carol Damián, EEUU. Yuri Alexander. Miami Presentación del catalogo “ grabados”.Juan Luis Rodri_ Simbología de las frutas-objetos de Madrigal-Arcia , guez, octubre de 1983 Costa Rica.... Presentación del catalogo “ grabados”. José David, octu- Dermis Pérez León, Cuba Catalogo “Grabados de América Central” Jarandilla de la bre de 1983. Costa Rica. Vera 1997 Rosa Perales y Javier Pizarro. España. Entrevista: ” No es posible formar artistas a la fuerza “ Eruptions in the landscape: identity, roots, and fantasy in Rogelio Benavides. La Nacion internacional. 6 al 12 de Mario Madrigal’s painting. Dra. Dolores G. Torrez,. La octubre de 1983 . costa rica . Prensa Literaria. 1998 . Nicaragua Convergencia: amistad y conciencia de artista. La nación internacional. 13al 19 de octubre de 1983 , costa Madrigal-Arcia: ¿Dilema entre el Color y el Paisaje? , Agustín Del Rosario. Panamá América ., 4 de octubre de rica . 1998 . Panamá. Presentación del Catalogo “ serie metal –física frutas y semillas de cobre “, Dibujos , 1986 . Mercedes Gordillo, . Juan Sobalvarro . Nicaragua Erupciones de la Naturaleza . La Prensa literaria . 1998 , Nicaragua Marta Leonor González .Nicaragua Muestra Grafica . Revista Andrómeda , febrero-abril de Julio Valle-Castillo Nicaragua 1985 . Costa Rica . Un pintor que retrata las frutas-objetos. Periódico la triOctubre en las galerías. , tiempo libre. Juan Carlos buna : la galería , 19 de julio de 1994 Norma K. Fornos , Flores. Costa Rica La pintura metafisica de Madrigal Arcia .La Prensa Libre: Nicaragua Suplemento Abanico . julio de 1988 . Costa Rica
The Art of
MARIO RENE
34.
Entrevista. revista Osmus . , New York 4 pintores nicaragüenses. Presentación catalogo de Galería Ulises. Porfirio García Romano. 1999 . 20 mayo de 1999. Costa Rica . las transmutaciones en la pintura de Mario Madrigal. Revista Cultura de Paz # 22 , 1999 Álvaro Lovo ,2000 Nicaragua obras de Madrigal-Arcia cautivan a f Semanario Paginas Verdes, entrevista por Ximena Ramírez año 7 # 128 , Managua Nicaragua año 2000 Revista Fama.” Obras de Mario Madrigal cautivan a famosos” Junio 2001 Fabulador de plástico de la realidad. semanario tiempos del mundo. Mario Madrigal-Arcia :, Humberto Peralta , 1 de febrero del 2201. Nicaragua Libro ”Pinacoteca del Banco Central, selección de obras”..Jorge Eduardo Arellano. Paginas 240,256, año 2001 Mario Madrigal-Arcia, textos de la naturaleza. La prensa literaria . 1 de marzo de 2003. Nicaragua . Madrigal-Arcia: ¿Dilema entre el Color y el Paisaje? la prensa literaria .12 de 0ct, 2002 nicaragua
Revista Estilos y Casas , Junio 2003 Costa Rica Catalogo “ 20 Contemporary Internacional Artists. Biblioteca de Artistas de las Comunidades Europeas . Vol.2 .Barcelona , España . Mayo 2004 . Libro.Eterno Valor .Edición Especial 2004 .Mercado de Valores de Costa Rica. Libro Un dolmen para Dali. Espana 2009 Libro El Umbral Secreto. Chile 2009 Libro Surealism Now. Portugal 2011 Revista Kanina. Volumen XXXIV.Numero 2 .Universidad de Costa Rica. 2010.
Su obra se encuentra en colecciones públicas y privadas en América Latina, Estados Unidos , Europa , Asia .
Mario Rene Celular 506) 88777658 Costa Rica. Celular 505) 83865534 Nicaragua.
sus obras han sido publicadas en los siguientes libros https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mario-Renerevistas suplementos culturales y periodicos: Madrigal-Arcia/236026523116741?ref=bookmarks _Osmus Numero 22, 1997. Entrevista : Madrigal Arcia madrigalarcia@gmail.com 22 Preguntas. -Fine Arts Index International. 1994 -1995 (Pág. 126) -Art Nexus Internacional. 1993 - 1994 - 1995 http://issuu.com/pineapplestudio/docs/latin_american - Revista Documenta. 1994 - 1995 _art_6_web/43?e=4468463%2F10227180 - Revista Arte Al Día. 1994 - 1995 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mario-ReneRevista -Osmus Magazine. 1994 y 1997 Madrigal-Arcia/236026523116741 Revista -Entertainment News (B/W) Review of Arafi. https://madrigalarcia.virtualgallery.com/ Nov. 1994 http://youtu.be/69EqMqJo9zo - Catalogo Arafi Arts Internacional. (Catálogo) 1994 http://www.saatchionline.com/madrigalarcia - Revista Nuestra Gente. 1993 - 1994 http://mario-rene-madrigalarcia.fineartamerica.com - Revista Florida Desing Magazine. 1994 - 1995 -Revista Sharper Vision. 1994 - Libro Anuarium. 1994 - Revista Forum Artis. 1994 - Libro Art Directo. 1996 1997 Libro Art Directo. 19981999 Revista Cultura de Paz . # 22 , 1999 Semanario Paginas Verdes, entrevista por Ximena Ramírez año 7 # 128 , Managua Nicaragua año 2000 Revista Art Nexus . abril -junio 2001 Revista Arte al Día .abriljunio 2001 Revista Fama , abril -junio del 2001 Libro Art Directo 2003 Revista Best Guide dic 2002 nicaragua .
35.
A celebration of the word
Sabata-mpho Mokae
US-based South Africa-born writer and academic, Dr Lesego Malepe, who is also an adjudicator in an award for children’s writing in the US, participated in a panel discussion on children’s writing. The discussion centred on the future, prospects and challenges of children’s writing in the mother continent, Africa. Marita van der Vyver is a South Africaborn and France-based novelist. She participated in panel discussions on children’s writing and also read from her work. Notable participants also included legendary South African poet, Dr Don Mattera, whose memoir “Memory is the Weapon” and poetry collection “Azanian Love Song” continue to appeal to a wide audience despite having been released over two decades ago. Mattera has been involved in the South African struggle against apartheid, using the might of the pen to highlight and criticize the actions of the government.
The annual Northern Cape Writers Festival, which took place over three Part of the festival was visiting places days between February 26 and 28 in Kimberley this year, was a celebration of and groups away from the main festival at the Kimberley Public Library. One of the word, spoken and written. those was a visit to the Tswelopele Being the only literary programme in the Correctional Centre where a former prison resident, Mark Kotze, launched central South Africa, the NCWF takes place in the heart of the Diamond Fields his second book in front of an audience comprising of prison officials and current every year around the same time. residents. The name of the correctional This year the festival organisers, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in centre, Tswelopele, means “progress”. the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, raised the bar with a number of international participants. In the line-up was Iyaba Ibo Mandingo, Antigua-born US-based poet/ playwright/ novelist/ painter. He read his novel “Sins of My Fathers” and performed poetry to a number of audiences, including reading clubs in and around the city of Kimberley. He staged also his play “unFramed” in Kimberley, Cape Town and Johannesburg. There was considerable focus on writing for young and future generations. A
36.
The NCWF also saw high school girls from Kimberley Girls’ High School and their counterparts on Oakland, California participate in a Skype discussion on the “African/American Dream”. This was facilitated by Kimberley poet, Gontse Wa Chaane. The festival was also a platform for networking. California art gallery owner and artistic director, Johwari Trahan, will be exhibiting works by South African artists in the US after meeting them and having been impressed by their art. Acclaimed scholar and head of the Centre for Pan-African Languages at the University of South Africa, Professor Sekepe Matjila, also launched his new book on Sol Plaatje. “Bringing Plaatje Home” is a book about the pioneering South African journalist/ novelist/ political activist Sol Plaatje whose monument was erected about two minutes’ walks from the festival venue and after whom the new university in Kimberley was named. The festival is an important event in the cultural calendar of Kimberley and the neighboring cities of Bloemfontein and Upington. With diamonds being almost depleted in a city nicknamed “City of Diamonds”, the new focus is now on turning the city’s cultural and artistic resources into currency. This is no mean feat, but the festival is a step towards the right direction. With much fewer logistical glitches compared to the past years, one can cautiously say the NCWF is coming of age. So far many books have been launched at the festival over the years, including “Go Tell the Sun” by a Botswana writer Wame Molefhe, “The Story of Sol T Plaatje” by Sabatampho Mokae and “Arrested - without the right to remain silent” by Mark Kotze. Many South African poets, fiction and non-fiction writers have graced the NCWF stage in the six years of its existence. These include Lebo Mashile, James Matthes, Napo Masheane, Vonani Bila and Maruping Phepheng.
37.
Iyaba Mandingo’s
MAYIBUYE "Mayibuye" is a Xhosa word, It means "to return" or to "urge something to come back". It reminds me of the Akan word Sankofa which means to go back and get it. I got on the plane bound for KImberley South Africa and the North Cape Writers Festival with that word in my thoughts and meditations. I was going home, the first in my bloodline after 500 years was going to step on African soil. I had been anticipating this moment for over 25 years since becoming conscious as we in the Black or Afrikan Consciousness Movement call it. I was in an Iowa jail cell for getting my white girlfriend pregnant; rape was the charge, long story short is she ran away from home leaving them without her forced testimony charges were dropped and I eventually got out.
That was the first time I met my ancestors; they came to me in my dreams in that place and we made a pact, I would promise to take them home and they would give me their talents; enhance mine. They have absolutely lived up to their side of the bargain, sometimes all I can do is laugh at the amazing amounts of art I am able to take credit for. So this was my chance to fulfill my part of the deal, I was taking them home. I imagined the moment many times, figured I’d step of that iron bird and wham, a wave of emotion would rock me to my core. And there was a feeling when I deplaned in JoBurg a warmness that sort of flowed over me but it was no the emotional avalanche that I imagined so I waited. I felt that same wave of good vibes envelope me as we flew to Kimberley looking out the window at Africa below. That first night I just sat outside the guesthouse and inhaled Africa. The festival began the following morning with a collection of poets and writers that assured me it was going to an amazing festival. There was a inner circle of elders Baba Netuli and Baba Mattero two of Azania’s most celebrated poets and freedom fighters, they had both endure jail and years of exile for their words and Baba James another Azania legend who words challenge apartheid at it heights and there was Sister Diana Ferrus the Sister who played a pivotal role in the return of the remains of Sarki Baartman to her native land in 2012; I sat like a fan and just listened. When it was my turned to share I did 41 times to an amazing response especially from the inner circle. There was a phalanx of radio and television interviews and handshakes and hugs. Day two started with a visit to the local prison for a performance, my younger brother is in captivity here in America so whenever I perform in jail there is always a comradery with the brothers there and this visit wasn’t any different. As we left the warden thanked me for my visit and for telling the men I loved them, he said “I don’t think you realize how long it’s been since these men heard anyone say that to them”, he was right, I had said I love you and I always do, they all look like my brother, they all could be my brother, I love them with my entire heart. On day three there was an evening session at the Mayibuye Cultural Center, over two hundred people gathered to listen to poetry and song. Professor Netuli and Dr Mattero were magnificent, their poetry is a testimony to the diligence of honing ones craft until one masters it. So yes I was a bit intimidated by the time the host called my name.
38.
learned about the trial of the Upington 26. In Springbuk we met a beautiful Rasta community that renewed my love of Rasta and performed with a mountain as the backdrop and a full moon as the spotlight. We also traveled to Leliefontein where we met the original descendant of the khoi-san people and experience a small dose of the traditional Afrika that my ancestors were taken from. From there we traveled to CapeTown and a visit to Robben Island to see Mandela’s cell and even more intriguing the small cottage where they kept Robert Sobukwe separated from all the other prisoners. Cape Town was irie though it was the first time I really got a feel for white people in Africa. Mamma Africa a local pub offered a great hangout with a local band that had me dancing into the night. We performed in Tangores to an awesome crowd that reminded me of long ago days in New York before Def Poetry franchise poetry and turned As I completed the piece and came back to myself I everyone into an egomaniac. realize the entire room was crying with me, a sort of cry that only serve to increase your own tears. Then We flew back to JoBurg for the final week of our journey and rented a kool loft in the Maboneng Art two of the elders Baba Mattero and Baba Netuli rose form their seats and came up to me, they em- District. JoBurg is like a shot of adrenaline to the senses; the people are always on the move, minibrace me to them and kissed my cheeks and forehead all the while saying “welcome home Son…we van-cabs tooting their horns and racing around each other to and fro. I enjoyed the scene comhave never forgotten you…we are so glad you are pletely and spend the days visiting local galleries finally home again…we have never forgotten and restaurants. With an exchange rate of 1 U.S you…” Baba Mattero then wiped the tears and sweat from my face and rub them on his face; twice dollar to 10 SA rands It was a treat enjoying drinks I sobbed on their shoulders like a child. Everyone in and a meal for under $150 rand or in U.S terms 15 that room hugged me and welcomed me home after bucks. The Boabob Tree was a favorite not only for their delicious buffet, but also for the sorrel n ginger that. mixed with vodka drinks they served, I also made an arrangement with the owner who is an InternaSo when the following weeks continued to evolve into magical moments I was better prepared for the tional Art Dealer to be my African representative. I was beyond impressed with the young people, tears. We spent ten days in Kimberley performing poetry from our upcoming collection of poems “You everyone seemed to exploring the possibilities of a newly formed Republic. I was also invited to a tradiTongue Heavy Like 56”,presenting the play untional Zulu dinner in the township of alexander comFRAMED, reading excerpts from Sins of My Faplete with crunchy black worms that I learned were thers and visiting the former office and home of a Zulu delicacy. By the final day of my journey I was Robert Sobukwe Azania’s most prolific Freedom more in love with that place than I ever realized was Fighter before setting out on a two day drive to Cape Town twelve hours away. I didn’t realize it as possible to love a place. I flew back to America we left town but this would be my opportunity to see empowered and inspired fulfilled and reborn. Afrika is a magical place. the Africa my ancestors were stolen from, we visited Agruvaries Falls that bordered Namibia and saw Baboons going about their morning chores. We visited and performed for the people of Upington and My set was well received, I was preparing to leave the stage when the host asked to hear the new poem he was told I had written that morning. The poem was just the first draft of my thoughts on listening to all the different languages I had heard in the past three days; most everyone in Azania speaks at least ten including English. It was in those moments of listening that the enormity of all slavery had taken from us, Africans of the diaspora really echoed loudest for me. There was at once a sense of anger, followed by a helpless frustration and then a profound paralyzing sadness each time someone spoke or recited a piece in their native tongue. It was strangely familiar, like trying to remember the words to a song, I could feel the melody and rhythm of the words but their comprehension remained just outside my grasp; the poem spoke to that angst.
39.
Kgomotso Neto Tleane Kgomotso Neto Tleane is a young fast growing South African photographer who draws inspiration from the every day living of South Africans, according to mail & guardian He’s part of a new Generation of image shapers who use photography and the internet to show the world south Africa as they know it, growing up in the northern parts of South Africa which is predominantly rural areas, He had never hoped or thought that one day he would be called a photographer because this was something of no interest for him or think it would be a career He would one day pursue, after completing High School and confused as to which career path to pursue He moved to Johannesburg to further His studies at one of the Universities. He later moved to Soweto which is where the passion for photography developed, seeing how people lived in the city and the surrounding townships drove Him to get a camera and start documenting the life of South Africans as he knew and viewed it, Neto believes that because of life experiences and how people where brought up, we tend to view or perceive our environments differently,
He decided to share his experiences and how he perceived the world or the environment around him using photography. His mission now is to try and bring change using photography by altering the stereotypes that people have become accustomed to in South Africa. To check out more of Neto’s work please follow the links below Facebook : 3rd Eye View
Tumblr : www.my3rdeyeview.tumblr.com
Behance : www.behance.net/kgomotsoneto Instagram : www.instagram.com/kgomotso_neto" Kgomotso Tleane 0814451210/ 078 562 6570 www.behance.net/kgomotsoneto www.my3rdeyeview.tumblr.com
39.
“Repentance “
41.
Art
Olatunde Barber is an artist and a curator at the Museum Section, Main Library at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. As an artist he specializes in landscape paintings executed in the realism and surrealism styles, expressing himself fluently in the oil painting and pastels media. He is an exhibiting member of the of the Abayomi Barber School of Thought, The Best of the Ife Art School, and the Plein Air Painters of Nigeria. Olatunde has served as a lecturer at the Fine arts department of the Lagos state Polytechnic, as a curator and art instructor to several younger artists who were apprenticed to him at the studios of the National Gallery of Arts, Lagos, Nigeria and as a facilitator and instructor at several art workshops since 2002.
Fashion Music
Olatunde piece: World Show He bagged an M.A in Visual Arts from the Creative Arts Department, University of Lagos, Nigeria and a B.A from the Fine and Applied Arts Department of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun state, Nigeria in 2008 and 1999 respectively. He is a strong supporter of direct skill acquisition. Olatunde can be reached at Obarber@unilag.edu.ng or olatundebarber@yahoo.com
+234 8023579804
42.
Born in 1979 in Ivory Coast Turay Mederic was only 4 years old when his parents moved to the USA, with a normal learning. His secret dream is to devote himself to art. In 1995, his family returned to live in Africa and enroll in a school of fine arts. He received many awards at various competitions of fine arts. In late 1999, he was elected the best young artist from West Africa His unique style, "Trace", consists of an assembly Sign and symbol and word Cubism or reminiscent of the painter Basquiat and Picasso. His language is not intended to narrative: he enlisted in the way of a rhetorical metaphors or sign feeds allusions to better tell Africa and the world. His works are recognized by African and European critics. They recognize this young artist a great value. They confirm the growing talent of this artist with a bright future whose signature retains the attention of collectors
43.
43.
44.
http://www.turaymederic.com/
AYO Solanke
“The Newest Rising Star of the Contemporary African Artists”. 45.
A
remarkable man and musician, the Jazz
UTI: Who is Ayo Solanke the musician? AS: Ayo is a man of vision. My greatest desire is to be relevant and to touch lives all over the world with my music, inspiring them to be better and to see endless possibilities through the way I live my life, the way I do my work. In short, leading by example.
sounds from his saxophone sends rhythmic messages to your soul. With every note he entangles your mind into the vibe.....ahhhhh music to my ears. Gifted with talents and sharing his gifts with the world playing unto the Lord, Solanke has been compared to UTI: We look forward to following your American musician Waymon Tinsdale. He has recorded with the likes of Kirk Whalum, Hugh Masakela and Zahara Solanke climbs the indie charts fast! Urban Times International is excited to have an opportunity to chat with Ayo! UTI: Greetings Brother, Thank you for your time! Please introduce yourself to the readers. AS: my name is Ayo Solanke, I'm a saxophonist based in South Africa and I'm so glad to be talking to you today UTI: Have you any projects approaching? AS: Yes, we are in the process of finalizing my first solo project "The Journey", scheduled to be released this year. UTI: How wonderful has this experience been for you? AS: It has been very exciting. It's like watching a beautiful child grow which in this case it is a "brain-child" with a lot of potentials. We are happy, delighted and can't wait to share this amazing music with the world. UTI: Tell us a little about the project AS: this project was born in the midst of a tough challenge in my life. Everything fell apart and it seems as if the world was going to collapse. I lost my car, had to depend on friends for accommodation, my clothes were getting faded and tore off one by one. In short, it was the lowest time of my life but something told me to make a lemonade out of the lemon life threw at me and that was how it all began and today I'm grateful for the gift that has emerged.
movements in the industry, congratulations on your success and much success to you. Thank you again for your time.... AS: Thank you for chatting with me. In closing I will like to leave you with this quote:
"Make it ok to fail, make it ok to lose but make it a point never to give up no matter what." Thank you again, have a great life. Contact details: ayosax@gmail.com info@ayosolanke.com Twitter: @ayo_solanke Facebook: Ayo Solanke Music Soundcloud & Reverbnation: Ayo Solanke
46.
47.
2011 saw one of his many career highlights when he was chosen as one of the six (6) Finalists to open for Usher Raymond during the Hansa’s 2012 Legends in The Making Tour in South Africa. Mahenza was accompanied by Gaopalelwe ‘Apu’ Sebekedi and Mogomotsi Mo Klaasik Klaas. 2013 was the birth and formation of BlazinHendz Entertainment (Pty) Ltd which render services such as: Artist Management, Publishing, Marketing, and Distribution & All sort of Prints and consist of two talented Music creators, Blaze and Mahenza that where the name came from, to form BlazinHendz Mahenza revealed that his first album was created using very basic music-making Real name: Amogelang Alphonce Selotlego, software. “I don’t know how to explain the Bathobatho Motshegare production stages of my album Moniker(s) Mahenza Village House Session #1 because all I did was put down the basic ideas that I had with the help Producer, Creator/DJ-#Sgerezi of my business partner Tshepiso Blazin Jamz Mahenza was born in Mahikeng in Semino, My cousin Gaopalelwe ‘Jerah’ Mothusi Northwest, The self-taught Producer – DJ and and Truscott Toxic Beatz Mmatli, I did use MIDI Dancer is what some might call the freshest controllers and everything was played with a House Tune MUSICIAN, DJ/PRODUCER to computer mouse. He added that the use of live come out from Mahikeng instruments in a song is also very important, givMahenza was spotted in 1996 by an artist devel- ing a track that final magic touch and bringing it opmental company called SHELL ROAD TO to life. FAME and TOP OF THE POPS, which gave performance platform to upcoming musician, Village House Session 2 is ready I'm dropping singles and music video's 2015, In 2005 He had the opportunity to work on the Head of Photographer at Village House Legendary Rex Rabanye (May his soul rest in Sessions (Pty) Ltd based in Northern Cape and peace), and Teenage Lovers Music on a Project Northwest (Mahikeng) Running 24/7 Recording which is unreleased. Studio with Katlego SpikeyBuoy Dikokwe, managed to work with Harrison Crump, Otumiseng Mahenza has a clothing- line by the name Sger- Tu-Klaps Mogokonyane and DJ Mbuso... ezi and has worked with different Currently running a printing shop in South Africa Artists/Producers from Mahikeng, In North West - we have 3 shops in S.A - Mafikeng - Black Province, Including Jerah Mothusi (IDELA ENPride (Concept Shop) Pampierstad (Tuck Shop) TERTAINMENT), Katlego SpikeyBuoy Dikokwe, and Bloemfontein (Stalakis) Our Brand (Sgerezi) Mogomotsi Morolong Ramakwati, Lemao, means a hustle and (Haobereke) means you Molebatsi, Busi Koata, Molefi Toxic Beatz Mmat- don't work and (Kazzz Pampierstad Originator li (STREETHOP RECORD) and Tshepiso Blazin 8566) Jamz Semino BLAZINHENDZ ENTERTAINMENT (PTY) LTD
49.
twitter/facebook/I.G: @TILEYclothingz, my pin:2B1A6569, number: +2348038508745 Lagos Nigeria
#TheBay2SA #SA2TheBay collaborative effort (cont)
The South Africa Team: Sbo Mic G: Mic G Mic G (Sboniso Ngubane) is a solo Hip hop artist from Durban SA, currently based in (PMB) Pietermaritzburg. “Basically he's style is strictly street with a bit of that raw lyricism.” He has worked with alot of talented artists and producers around South Africa. This includes Liquid K-ZN, Golden Shovel, Skye Wanda, Shon G, Deep Soweto and Siyamatic Zakwe and Zulu boy. Worked on compilations and mix tapes like The Given Mixtape, Graveyard Mixtape, Chain of Command Mixtape, Timezone Mixtape and Fresh book,Muff Town Producers Spikeyboi and Blazing Jams and now working with PMB's fresh producer Kurt (New Age Records) “Basically it all started 1998 when he was with the crew called NCV with Budda Bless, Demollition Zig Zeg, Skye Wanda and P from Chesterville Durban South Africa" Sbo is currently working with on his solo EP which is due out in October 2015. On a side working with Sim Li, Styles - Kurt and Nick boi from Zimbabwe on production on a mix tape due to come out December this year.
51.
Styles : Name: Sim Li Real name Simlindile Mhlongo Pietermaritzburg inhabitant. Founder of Bare Thoughts society in the University of Zululand in 2006 (There was no form of creative extra mural activity in the University it being a very rural environment for most of us this had to be achieved) Society which still exists.
The general fan base for Hip Hop in South Africa is astounding as they celebrate local music with the same enthusiasm as international & world famous music. The fact that Nio, Ziggy, Chizle, and Sef are being introduced to SA through PMB is as if they were local, which gives them a highly competitive edge and an instant credibility over other overseas rappers seeking to get attention on South African soil. PMB can act as a calling card to connect them instantly to its organic fan base. The flip side to this international coin is that with powerhouse move makers such as Nio the Gift, Chizle, Young Ziggy, and Mr Sef having each made a huge impact in the Hip Hop music scene in the Bay Area, The nation and even other parts of the world already, PMB will simply be stepping into the fruits of those labors and enjoy all of the buzz surrounding it. The connection came in a subtle way when a friend of Mr Sef's, songwriter Luc Lang reached out to him after returning to the Bay Area from overseas in South Africa in Jan of 2015. Luc realized he could play a part in connecting the two groups and together they could enlarge each other’s platforms and expose one another to an even broader fan base. A meeting was scheduled, a plan was made and a collaboration song was born. Luc resides in Vanderbijlpark South Africa with his family but had to make an unexpected trip back to California and decided to use the occasion to connect the dots for all involved.
Poet/Rapper Performances: Durban bat centre Empangenic(in and arwnd) Jhb Soweto(Slaghuis) 2013 co-founded Fish-a-nyama in Pietermaritzburg (independent organisation dealing with The Arts and food) Co-founder of HeadQuarters@55 (HipHop orientated organision in PMB) Attorney in KZN (PMB) 2 Mixtapes: Mr. Meaner Mixtape Vol.1 (Produced by Cry-me from Ghana who's dealing with Sheer Publishing SA) Blackenese MC Mixtape (independant) Working on new projects with many PMB acts and currently centred in moving HIP HOP and the culture forward. Old school Onyx, Sticky Fingers DMX, Lox, Eminem streets sh*t ) And currently working hand in hand with a few organisations like Ubumba for Life who does clay work in different parts of KZN enhancing the idea of selfconfidence.
52.
Rhodes statue removed Matete Motsoaledi
I often comment to my friends that as we mature, it becomes easier to insult each other. We do not even need to be profane. To understand that, we need to be empathetic to each other's causes. A group of us artists were in Kimberly in January this year for a writers festival. In between the book launches, poetry and music performances etc., we would have discussions about everything from health, art, politics, beauty, Isibaya, EFF, money etc. fine artist Wesley Pepper, a Kimberley native was the first one to curse, each day when we went past the fenced-out statue of Cecil john Rhodes in town. A few hundred meters away is another statue of the English queen Elizabeth. Not far from there is where Robert Sobukwe was banished to, Sol Plaatjies lived and many black labourers/slaves died mining diamond and treated like animals. Men like this Cecil profited from that. Why is it that when we chose people to admire, we
chose these ones that hate and abus others? The ones that went out of their way to be brutal to black people? Where is that empathy? With South Africa's history, one would never expect to be told to "get over apartheid already!" Or "I did not benefit from it because I was born way after that time" yet ghettos and prisons are filled with one kind of people in the land where they originate. Colonialism dehumanised us, tried to distort and destroy our culture. We were violated in so many ways that even today, poverty and other societal ills still plague us only while white country men look on in oblivion, perpetuating the very attitude of self importance and superiority over others, that brought us here. Colonialism was a crime, a violation of basic human rights. It is a traumatic experience to the conscience of society. Why are we expected to have reminders of that especially at places where we are imposing ourselves because it is clear we are kept out on purpose.
53.
The fall of the apartheid government was initiated by their unwillingness to listen and change. Racist and insensitive conduct will be extinct because we stop reasoning and acted on removing all reminders like statues and landmark names of the tyrants themselves who sought personal glory at the expense of multitudes of black natives who lost lives unwillingly while securing comfort and luxury for the colonisers. The queen herself has our diamond in her throne, she too should return it.
black people went through and not surprisingly, a certain contingent of white students defended this villains under pretext of preserving history. The same community that went to court to fight for the gagging of all those liberation struggle "war cries" calling for their blood of the oppressor. They said these songs have no place in our current condition, but hypocritically, these statues do. Clearly this is a twisted view.
The forced removal of Rhodes, sends a clear message that we should insist on The actions of the University of Cape Town reclaiming our dignity and pride because "none but ourselves can free our minds". in the past few weeks called on other black citizens to wake up to the realisation that we Once we can walk proudly in our country without being humiliated while expected to continue to be dehumanised more than forgive and reconcile on the other hand, only 20years after we are supposed to be free. Reminders of those that inflicted suffering on then shall we declare ourselves free. For us are scattered everywhere, even in institu- now, the black people's struggle for freedom in South Afrika wages on. Aluta continua! tions of learning. These to us are spoils of war. They are painful reminders of what we
70.
bona / b么na/ verb observe, behold, see pono / p么n么/ noun sight, view
www.facebook.com/ BonaPono
matete.motsoaledi@bonapono.com www.bonapono.com