Effuse Magazine
BLACSHADE www.blacshade.com
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BLACSHADE www.blacshade.com
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Effuse Magazine
CONTENTS Effuse Magazine
40 Yollanda Musa
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Cover Girl
The best advice I can give to upcoming models is that you have to believe in yourself the most and not wait for someone else to believe in you. It may take a while for someone to recognise or acknowledge you but you have to keep on going. Do not let rejection hold you back.
Front Cover Credits
Photographer: Ian Trayner MUA: Caroline_odg MUA: Caroline_pd
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48 Charles MacCarthy-Crabbe
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M and C Line Designer
Being a fashion designer has been the best decision I ever made in my entire life because I have never looked back ever since.
14 Camille Ukpanah
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Creative Writer, DJ and Model
Camille Ukpanah is a young media personal who has always had a drive in the media field from an early age. She started off in radio at 16 and knew from there on that media was her calling.
50 Haruna Adamu
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Fashion Designer
I am Haruna Adamu, a proud West African who hails from Northern Nigeria who’s been noted for my clean cuts. I launched the brand Rocky African inspired prints and designs of both sexes back in 2012 and by 2017 we’ve been acclaimed as one of the most consistent brands that Nigeria and West Africa as ever produced in recent times.
54 Samantha Mutongi
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Youtube Vlogger
I started my first YouTube channel in 2009. I was about 14/15 years old. I did 2 videos (which are still up), an introduction to my channel and a skin care routine. I didn’t really know which direction I wanted my YouTube channel to go so I kind of just stopped uploading Fast forward to 2015, I had recently quit my job so I had a lot of free time on my hands so I used that time to make loads videos on snap chat. People found them hilarious.
68 Tiwanna Taona Karidza
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The hardest part about writing to me is being vulnerable to my reader. I see my writing as more than stripping myself naked. There’s more to it when you expose your thought system. You can evoke the wrong feelings, upset people etc.
@effusemagazine Effuse Magazine
Author
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Editor’s Letter Congratulations Class of 2017! Hello to all the Effuse readers! This is the long-awaited issue number 8 and I am so happy to have put together such a wonderful issue with yet again more successful black excellency. This issue was also coedited by the talented Tapiwa Mugabe. I just want to take this time to thank you all for your patience and support. I am very much looking forward to your feedback and thoughts. On that note, congratulations to all the graduates and class of 2017. Hope this issue inspires you! Thank you, until next time!
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quincyvisuals.com
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@QUINCYVISUALS quincyvisuals.com
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Camille UKPANAH C
amille Ukpanah is a young media personal who has always had a drive in the media field from an early age. She started off in radio at 16 and knew from there on that media was her calling.
She graduated from sixth form and attended University of Nottingham Trent where she studied joint BSc. International Relations & Film and TV. This enabled her to start up her own media website called Camille & Friends show. She had her first debut radio show on climax radio but then later managed to get her own show on Power Xtra Radio. This then gave her the opportunity to get a slot on Choice FM radio where she has her own show and interviews celebrities, authors and many more. Camille & Friends Show consists of Radio, Fashion photography and Online bloggging were Camille reviews brands (fashion, arts and culture and music) and reviews events and runs giveaways and competitions. While the radio side of Camille & Friends show is a magazine show which caters to encouraging the youth and interviewing successful people who are doing well in the career fields on the show.
@camilleandfriendshow
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Effuse Magazine
MAN
- Man, Zimbabwe (2014) - Tapiwa Mugabe
I used to make apologies for having the soft in my man. A wave of woman in my masculinity. I was called too gentle and too unmanly for not hoarding women in my waist. Today I wear my mother in my voice, I am clothed in her. I wear my sisters in my thinking, my grandmother in my bone, in my soul. I am after all my grandmother’s child. For she prayed for me. It was she who went before God, red war paint on her face from fighting the men. She pleaded for a son. How then can I deny the woman in me, when my coming to earth was because women prayed for me? Was I not made from a woman’s mouth? Only father remarks at my petal nature, The women I come from say I am beautiful.
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@TAPIWAMUGABE
Effuse Magazine
Francis Amissah Founder of TalkMediaGhana.com
Francis Amissah (born in December, 1990) known in the showbiz circles as ‘Banks’’ is a Ghanaian celebrity blogger & publicist. Founder of TalkMediaGhana. com, a leading entertainment website with the aim of promoting music, videos, brand advertisement, events, artists, fashion & lifestyle etc. An astute product of the Kaneshie Senior High Technical School, Accra, he has held many leadership positions throughout his steady rise. Notable among them was the Senior Boys Prefect of his Secondary School in 2008/2009. He has made significant contributions to several Pan African websites including Ghanamotion.com and ThinkGhMusic.com. In 2012, he launched his website. Through diligent work, Francis has had the opportunity of interviewing numerous personalities, including Coptic, Kwaw Kese, Kris J (A&R at Universal Music Group – South Africa), C-Real, Ian Jazzi, J.Town, E.L, Dark Suburb, Scientific, X.O Senavoe, Genius Selection. In 2009/2010, he started with a website called dcemcees.webs.com, where he started blogging. With different role models and successful players in the same industry to learn from, he took his time, learnt well and developed steadily. Later in 2012, he fully launched his official website TalkMediaGhana.com.
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The formulation of TalkMediaGhana.com was a result of Francis’ friend hosting, helping him get the domain and also build the website as well. TalkMediaGhana.com is an online media portal dedicated to promote music, events, videos, artists, brand awareness on social media, entertainment talents and any other activity relating to entertainment in Ghana and Africa as a whole. It creates and implements powerful social media marketing campaigns that drive traffic to businesses, promote brands and create sales. TalkMediaGhana. com also provides professional online, social network promotion to all types of undertakings, including individual and partnerships, organizations in all sectors of the entertainment industry in Africa. TalkMediaGhana has also created social media awareness for well known companies such as Tigo Ghana (#KeepYouDoing campaign) and Kasapreko Company Limited. Since its inception, the website has found innovative ways to reach readers across the globe. The website is/has been on the lips of many artists, music producers, TV hosts/presenters, individuals & others media personalities.
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DASHIKI UK contact@dashikiuk.com
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DASHIKI UK contact@dashikiuk.com
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Photographer: Goldhouse Production MUA/Model: PIP Glassesby: BlacShade
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INSTINCT Social Club INSTINCT Social Club is an exclusive club designed to bring creative, talented, like minded individuals together through us hosting exclusive and private events. We aim to create an environment where people network and learn from each other for them to be successful in what they are doing. INSTINCT SC members have access to an extraordinary group of inspiring entrepreneurs. Each year we hold an extensive range of events and initiatives that let our members share experiences, knowledge and innovative ideas with each other. Our members inspire and challenge each other to think of and explore new ideas.
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What is Belles Network? Belles Network is a women empowerment organisation, that aims to celebrate and connect incredible women through hosting phenomenal events. We also provide a platform that will be used to put a spotlight on the extraordinary things created by ordinary women. We also want to bring back the “Girls wanna have fun vibe� back to women empowerment events, starting with a Pole dancing and Mocktails event hosted by a pro teacher. All our events are not just events, they are superb experiences. Follow us on twitter and Instagram @BellesNetwork to keep up to date with upcoming events.
chelseavbanks.com Effuse Magazine
5 Minutes
With Vimbai 1. What inspires you I have always been a person who loved playing dress up at a very young age. I can watch a movie/series just to see what a certain actress is wearing. I really love catching up with trends, so my friends said I should consider blogging. I said to myself, “why not”: Bang here we are! 2. What makes me different from others Firstly, I am myself, not so removed from reality because what I am doing is attainable. My blog is for everyone who wants to copy and look good to try work the outfit in their own way. My style is versatile yet simple. I am a spontaneous blogger, I can just wake up feeling like shorts or slides or even an elegant suit. Very unpredictable, but if I feel good in it I’m going to rock it. 3. What inspires your work I love to experiment with fashion, from all angles. I learn from everything that surrounds me especially Street fashion, because it all starts from the streets. I
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watch a lot of fashion shows; love to catch it straight from the runway and try to make it wearable on a day to day basis. The fashion week street fashion gives it away, you basically learn from other people from all over the world. 4. Do you get support Yes, I do have quite a strong support system. My family and friends keep telling me not to give up and my little sisters are my models too. I have a good photographer too @Jt_foto Instagram. 5. Challenges Getting information, you learn as you go because at times there is no one to ask. I would say doing collaborations is a bit of a challenge especially when you are starting. You need to be convincing for people to start working with you. 6. My Advice If the passion is there, go for it. Basically, the passion must be there.
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COVER GIRL
YOLL ANDA MUSA “It may take a while for someone to recognise or acknowledge you but you must keep on going.”
I
have been a runway and fashion model for about 2 years. While studying for my Economics degree at the University of Hertfordshire I attended a few test shoots. The balance between studying and modelling was a challenge so I completed my degree first. The urge to model however, still burned within me. Not long after I graduated in 2014 I started to see the unlimited potential for a 5 foot 2 model in a world of generic statuesque girls. So, I explored modelling opportunities with no height restrictions. Born to Model UK was my first real opportunity to voice my journey as a petite model. Even though I was the shortest model in the house I still managed to reach the final stages, this experience changed my life. I really enjoy working with photographer Ian Trayner because his directive style tells a story; he assigns you a role and brings your character to life through the beautiful images he produces. I met Ian Trayner on a Pandora’s Box theme shoot for a creatives group called Portrait X. Ian had written a storyline for the shoot which made the shoot more interesting as I was playing the character of Pandora and could use the storyline to think of different ways to pose. I also worked with Ian on a photoshoot inspired by Rihanna’s character in the film Battleship. Ian has a great sense of imagination which really comes across in the scripts he produces. The images are always produced at a very high standard.
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I have had the privilege to work with many amazing designers so choosing one is tough. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my mother for pursuing her dream and starting up fashion brand Mimi Florence Designs. For years, I watched my mum crochet at home and I kept highlighting how talented she is and how she should share the products she makes with other people. My mum being very humble never did and still doesn’t see herself as a designer. With encouragement and a little help from people around her who recognised her talent, she has set up a Facebook page and Instagram profile to showcase her products. She will also be showcasing at her first fashion show in November 2017. I am very proud of how far my mum has come. I have already started supporting a small number of upcoming models with various queries they message me with regarding starting a modelling career, participating in their first modelling competition or beauty pageant. In a couple of years, I hope to have set up a more stable support system for upcoming models. So please do watch this space. The best advice I can give to upcoming models is that you must believe in yourself the most and not wait for someone else to believe in you. It may take a while for someone to recognise or acknowledge you but you must keep on going. Do not let rejection hold you back.
@YOLLANDAMUSA Photo Credits
Photographer: Ian Trayner MUA: Caroline_pd
Effuse Magazine
Photo Credits
Photographer: Ian Trayner MUA: Make up by Vee Outfit: Mimi Florence MUA: Caroline_pd
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Jungle X Safari COLLECTION
SHEPSTONE SEKESO
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C
harles MacCarthy-Crabbe’s life is an inspiring one that tells a tale of how going with your gut or what comes naturally could be one of the best ideas. The founder and CEO of M and C fashion label did not grow up with a passion for fashion that overshadowed other passions, in fact his premier passion was to fly the starry skies of the world for a living, a passion he shared with his father. Through middle and high school, he selected subjects like Triple Science and Math to aid in his desired career path of becoming a pilot. It was only after getting accepted into the Oxford Aviation Academy and realizing the financial burden that would impose on himself and his family, he decided with full support from his father to go with a career path that came more naturally to him, and that was his love and passion for fashion. Since then he has placed full focus on strengthening his brand and staying unique with no regrets as he disclosed “I think that was the best decision I ever made in my entire life because I have never looked back ever since,” he explains. Charles enjoys his work very much. He is especially dazzled by the whole process his mind goes through, from the imagination of a concept unique and never before tried to the execution and creation of this somewhat crazy
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idea, and finally the joy and sense of fulfilment on seeing said idea as a completed project. As he said, “seeing the idea you imagined come to life after you have done all the hard work is the best feeling you ever get”. Unlike most fashion designers who tend to spend most of their time in material shops or online going through different fabrics as part of their process, Charles is not one for online browsing and ordering of fabrics or even visiting material shops for that matter. This is because he has a knack for knowing what materials he wants to use whilst he imagines up a collection. “As soon as I imagine a collection and how it looks on the runway, the fabrics and equipment I was to use is written down on paper and I know where to get it from”. In a sense he completes his designs and then collects his materials for them. He also has a habit of sometimes using materials he finds around in his studio and producing wonderful collections from them. In addition, Charles is a willing and eager learner, he constantly challenges himself to learn how to use and incorporate different materials into his fashion. “A lot of the time I do my research before purchasing materials I have not used before so I can build up my knowledge. In life you are always learning something new”. Like a lot of professionals Charles
has role models he looks up to for inspiration. Alexander McQueen’s ability to tell a story through his collections is one of Charles’s main inspirations. However, this was not always the case as he once had no one he looked up to. This was because in looking up to and taking inspiration from the work of other designers he subconsciously fell victim of somewhat plagiarizing the work they did, a problem not uncommon among young upcoming designers. “I started designing garments like the ones I had seen before, so I kind of moved away from looking up to the work of others”. But as he came into his own as a designer he began to allow himself learn from other more experienced designers again. Charles officially started M and C Line at the age of 13 with his father and has faced many challenges along the line, but the biggest challenge not only as an entrepreneur but as a person as well, was the loss of his biggest fan, supporter, advisor and role model, his father. Last year was a very hard year for M and C Line and Charles as losing his father derailed him for almost 6 months’ in which he completely shut down M and C. His father had been the reason behind his success and his
“I think that was the best decision I ever made in my entire life because I have never looked back ever since,” counsellor, and confidant. So losing the man who believed in him from the age of 13 and had built something big with him, led to the crash of what they had built together. “Something I started with him when I was only 13 years old and was only getting bigger and stronger suddenly crashed, although we are back even bigger and better, it was the most challenging thing to bring back M and C without him here”. However, he is of the belief that everything happens for a reason and he is thankful to God every day for blessing him with a father that was supportive and an outstanding role model. “Thomas Herbert Crabbe was and amazing and supportive father, He will never be forgotten”. For a fashion designer, Charles does not seem to like to experiment on himself. He does not see himself as one of his models and has a very visible love for the colour
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black. He dresses simple and when in doubt he will always go black. However, once in a while he will use some of his designs and fabrics at events jut to show off his style. He is also not too picky about who he can and cannot work with, when asked he just responded; “At this point I really don’t know, I’m thinking about it but I really, really, really don’t know. I guess anybody who’s really into my work”. Everyone has problems and challenges they face from time to time, Charles likes to keep an optimistic and positive attitude in life. He likes to dish out life lessons and advice at any opportunity he gets. He loves telling people to follow their hearts and to do things at their own pace. He even has a little mantra he repeats to himself during hard times “God is my Strength,” and he believes if everyone truly believes that we can all accomplish what we desire.
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Haruna Adamu
SHOP ROCKY UK “My goal as a designer is to simply bring African fashion to the centre of the world where it will be more recognized and appreciated, because everything African is colourful and beautiful.�
Tell about yourself and Shop Rocky? I am Haruna Adamu, a proud West African who hails from Northern Nigeria who's been noted for my clean cuts. I launched the brand Rocky African inspired prints and designs of both sexes back in 2012 and by 2017 we've been acclaimed as one of the most consistent brands that Nigeria and West Africa as ever produced in recent times. Why did you choose a career as a Fashion Designer? I'll say my taste for African style and fashion is what kick started my interest in designing, though I never envisaged myself to take it as a full brand. But then again, each time I rock my African inspired attires, I get loads of positive compliments and inquiries about where the clothes came from. And there's been a case where a British young man approached me and pleaded upon me to sell him the African print I was wearing at the time he saw me because he was so impressed with the look. It was then, I decided to take it all to a whole new level. And I also had it in mind to spread the African heritage through our style and choice of clothing. What skills are important for a successful career in fashion design? Well every designer has his or her own personal essential skills which help them in being successful with their art. I feel every fashion designer must have good eyes for selecting catchy colours and quality fabrics. Also, very good management skills are very important while you're doing thing as a designer. There's a lot more to it that I can't even talk about as of now. What are your goals as a Fashion Designer? My goal as a designer is to simply bring African fashion to the centre of the world where it will be
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more recognized and appreciated, because everything African is colourful and beautiful. I also want to project the African culture and heritage through my designs and styles which is pure African. What is your favourite part about being a Fashion Designer? My favourite part about being a designer is seeing the little pieces I combine into a whole piece of clothing on an individual who keeps being wowed at how well it fits and suits their style. It gives me so much pleasure and joy trust me. Tell us about a time when a client didn't like your work? I'm not trying to be proud but there's never been a client who didn't appreciate my work. My designs have travelled across nations like UK, US, South Africa, Nigeria, Turkey, Australia, Canada amongst other placess and not have we ever received thumbs down about our work. And I pray that never happens, which is why I keep improving our equipment and materials. How do you stay organized when you are provided with multiple design assets, files, and ideas? I always try to do everything under a fixed schedule and time frame so as not to do things in a rush. I also put Almighty Allah first in every step I take so He can guide my every move. Tell us about a project you've completed that has made you the proudest? The project that most made me most proud is that of 2 branches in South Africa and Nigeria which we planned just last year, it all came alive earlier this year. All effort to put these 2 branches came out fruitful and we're getting very positive amount of sales from each of them. And that shows how much our designs are craved for across nations.
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FOREVER SAMMY I
started my first YouTube channel in 2009. I was about 14/15 years old. I did 2 videos (which are still up), an introduction to my channel and a skin care routine. I didn’t really know which direction I wanted my YouTube channel to go so I kind of just stopped uploading Fast forward to 2015, I had recently quit my job so I had a lot of free time on my hands so I used that time to make loads videos on snap chat. People found them hilarious. I would get messages saying they loved my videos & I got a lot of requests to open a YouTube channel. I took that advice, started my channel and since then I’ve never looked back. I find inspiration in the everyday. I love experiencing new things, new places and I want to share that with people who watch my videos. I’m also inspired by the fact that my videos are going to stay online forever, I can’t wait to watch them when I’m older to remind myself to always stay fun and I can’t wait for my kids to watch them and see how crazy their mama was. It’s not always been easy, with vlogging you must be dedicated. It can be very time consuming - you spend ages reviewing footage, editing and more editing. I must cut down 4/5 hours of raw footage into a 15-minute video. It’s so tiring! You also miss out on moments because you’re so busy recording, making sure you have the right angles/lighting, you forget to be present in that moment. On the other hand, I get to watch those moments again and enjoy them over and over again. I’ve also received so many opportunities from vlogging. I think the biggest pro is freedom. I feel free when I create content and share it with people. My favourite memory was when a young lady came up to me at a concert and she said she watched my channel. Till this day, it is very strange to me that people watch my videos and enjoy them. It’s honestly such an honour and I appreciate each and every view. I didn’t imagine my
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channel to have grown this much in such a little time.
I use Canon G7X and iPhone 7 Plus to film. I also use Final Cut Pro and sometimes iMovie to edit. I am original and authentic. I don’t just post up the good bits of my life. My content is king - you can’t go on anyone else’s YouTube and watch videos which are like mine. I see my channel growing with more content and more subscribers. I also see myself branching out to other things such as TV. I’m currently working on my business which I have been documenting since the start. I can’t wait to take you guys on that journey with me. My advice to other upcoming vloggers, always remember these three things; 1. Be original. Don’t feel like you must be like anyone else. 2.
Have fun
3.
Be consistent
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N
asiphi Laila Sobahle, a 25year old South African woman living in America. I am raised by one strong and phenomenal woman by the name of Nomfanelo Mtezankuni, she is all that I know. Her strong and daring character has definitely filtered down to me and I also have two little sisters Bumbano & Sulungeka Dano who all reside in South Africa.
Africa yet they produce such impressive grades and we want to give back to them for their hard work.
We are also taking the initiative to dress the Best Female Student in the school, together with her partner for Prom, we will take full responsibility of their prom, from their dresscode to shauffering them to the event and this will be from our own pockets though it would be lovely to work with a designer I relocated to the USA with the hopes and intension or two. The name of the school is called Shayamoya of self discovery and development and this has been Area High School located in the heart of a small at the back of my mind since I landed in this country town called Kokstad, which is where I am from. five years ago. Being in America, I have gone Finally, all the above initiatives take place under my through a series of life changes and development. fitness group NasElite. NasElite Group is a Coach, In 2014 I was crowned Miss Africa in New York and A friend and cheerleader encouraging women to be this is when it all began, that was my year where I fierce about reaching for and achieving body success wanted to start something of my own, I have always & transformation however they define it. been enticed by the idea of being a Philantropist, We specialize in; Outdoor & indoor Boot camps, a Humanitarian, A South African Ambassador in Weightloss and or Weight Gain Programs, Training America, but never had the platform or tools to Programs, Personal Training and Online Personal be recognized as a young individual who is eager Training & Coaching. NasElite Group is 1 year old, to give back not only to her community but South we have managed to have an official launch hosted Africa at large and later on venturing into the entire by Ndosi Strategies in Miami on March 24 2017 continent of Africa. Winning Miss Africa 2014 in and that was a huge success. Ndosi Strategies is New York has opened a lot of doors for me and I a firm providing curated solutions for marketing, have never stopped dreaming post the crowning. Researching, International platforms & Partnerships I have come up with a number of initiatiives to assist for African Led businesses, orgnaizations, SMEs & the Youth of South Africa and have started small, Individuals. in my community that is. I have initiated initiatives Another exciting venture is that we just ventured such as Career Guidance Expos where we provide into active wear/gear. I feel like the gym is my High school learners with productive information playground, its where I get to be fashionable and for regarding University Applications and studies , now some reason, getting all dressed up for gym helps this is information that I had no access to having me in my workout sessions, it’s a party for me. I take come from a small village in Kwa-Zulu Natal pride in my gym outfits just like one would make (Kokstad) and this is why I feel passionate about sure they are presentable to show up at a party, its making it available and user friendly for the next that kind of party for me and most of my designs are generation that comes after me. tribal and are representative of Africa, this is all I Another initiative that is yet to begin this year know (Being African), Africa is what I carry in my is “Step into the Future” where again I am being heart, Africa is my Pride and Joy. No matter where I personal, I am always invited as a guest speaker to am in the globe, I am an ambassador of Africa. High school Proms, what we call “Matric Dance” in Our website is in underway where one would be South Africa, and I am always touched by the effort able to view our designs and be able to place an the learners put into their efforts to look good on the order from anywhere in the globe. particular evening, so I have partnered with a good friend of mine by the name of Mbulelo Katise, One I admire a wise woman by the name of Carolyn of South Africas young and well known actor. We Steyn, this is one South African individual I would are basically collecting donations of new high heel like to work with, her work is amazing. Sof 67 pairs from all over the world, we have identified this Blankets for Nelson Mandela, an initiative that I one particular school that is disavantaged in South have always wanted to be involved in.
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NASIPHI L AIL A SOBAHLE
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You are Oceanic, Zimbabwe (2014) - Tapiwa Mugabe.
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All she wanted was to find a place to stretch her bones. A place to lengthen her smiles and spread her hair A place where her legs could walk without cutting and bruising A place unchained. She was born out of ocean breath. I reminded her; ‘Stop pouring so much of yourself into hearts that have no room for themselves, Do not thin yourself, be vast You do not bring the ocean to a river.’
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@QUINCYVISUALS quincyvisuals.com
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TIWANNA TAONA KARIDZ A Author of Pain is a Feeling
M
um is in Ireland, I was raised by an aunt. Dad in South African met him twice all my life. I went to Admiral Tait Junior School, Roosevelt High School until form 4 then I moved to Trust Academy. Did modelling, still do commercials but I'm a Freelancer, Toastmasters, started writing when I was 15 and I'm in the process of going to school. I write short stories and I have a blog on it. The last born out of three kids. I'm the only girl.
Africa and Europe. Pain is a feeling, It's a handpicked anthology. The poems were written from the bunch that was already. "Pain is a feeling" was the most appropriate title as most of the poems were pain related, sounded the same yet very different.
The hardest part about writing to me is being vulnerable to my reader. I see my writing as more than stripping myself naked. There's more to it when you expose your thought system. You can evoke the wrong feelings, I volunteered to do anything that comes my upset people etc. way which can change human kind for the better The best part of being an author? Hmm I wouldn't want to speak for all but for the genre Peer promoter. Speaker, visited the maximum I released. I connected with many people young prison to talk to women and kids once to talk to and old because they found a mutual feeling them. Donated sanitary wear and had my book in my writing. Since I could unearth such in the maximum prison library deep emotions without even knowing them I just started writing when I was 15 and 4 personally. Being an author has made me more years later I decided I had written too many attentive to people because I find that when I things it would not hurt to publish some stuff go to speak I need to bring in something new, a new good day to them, some growth and that With my ideas, I frequently get into a zone I can only be achieved when you are well versed can't explain. Like a mad person, I just get in with your surroundings this space where I see what I see and hear what I hear and from somewhere within and I just I'm working on my law degree and clothe write, effortlessly to be honest. Writing a poem line with my best friend Yolanda. I love can take me a minute and I will carry on like African writers, Tsitsi Dangarembwa and nothing happened. In the weirdest of places, Chimamandas. Africans always a lot of things buses, crossing the road, mid night when I am to write. changing sides. My advice to aspiring writers is WRITE. You Publish industry especially in Zimbabwe, its might sound ridiculous today but tomorrow uneasy. If you don't push you will die off. The your work might be celebrated. Every gift has art industry is not as celebrated as it is in South a divine purpose, fulfil it.
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Sonez Charles
M
y name is Sonez Charles, I’m 26years old and I was born and raised in SVG then later in my childhood moved to the United Kingdom where I remained and furthered my studies. I never went to fashion school or had any form of professional training. Everything I know today I learnt from trial and from YouTube tutorials. I started SC Designs after gaining numerous requests from my friends and strangers to recreate for them items I made personally for myself and wore. After the requests kept coming I thought that it was best to at least see how I would do as the designer of a clothing brand and give it a go. To be successful in fashion although you must be willing to follow the trends you MUST set them. Creating unique pieces is necessary if you intend to set your brand apart from others and that is our goal. We try our best to block out external influences when it comes to what pieces we put out for our seasonal collections but sometimes your creativity will be influenced by current trends regardless especially if you’re active on social networking sites. Being a successful brand that put out unique pieces for Women is our goal.
My favourite part about being a designer is bringing my ideas to life. Thinking of what to create and making it a reality is very rewarding especially when your creation turns out better than you imagined. I’ve never had a client not like my work as I don’t do custom jobs. But as with any business I’ve had couple of instances where an exchange has been requested and one instance where a refund was. For a business that’s been established for over 2 years and has put out more than 5 collections I think that a couple of exchanges and a refund request is a sign that majority of SC designs customers end up happy with their purchases. My All white winter collection and last summer’s collection have been my proudest moments as they’ve been my most successful collections to date. My advice to any upcoming designer will be to 1.always bring to life anything they believe can be great as it might be much better than they expect. 2. always try to be unique and refrain from copying what is being done 3.Never give up even when you feel as if success ifs far off.
Everything takes time and operating a successful clothing line takes a lot of hard work and determination.
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SC DESIGNS www.scdesignslondon.com
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@queenyandy White Balance Media
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I
did not think for once that where I am right now is where I would be this time last year. I had plans, we both had plans, plans we made together. Everything changed our future, our forever, our everything & more. Life decided to take those plans in its own hands & show us that not everything you plan goes according to plan. I wasn’t ready I thought I was but I wasn’t ready. As the months went by I thought to myself ‘is anyone really ever ready?’ Does anyone really ever plan & it goes exactly according to plan? Let me take you back down memory lane, a memory that will last forever. It was summer time, (July 2016 to be precise) my favourite time of the year. My time to unwind, relax, chill out & hang out til the sun comes out & do it over & over again (when I was off work of course lol). Drink cider & wine & forget all my sorrows right? Little did I know that time of unwinding would be cut short. A baby, we’re having a baby, a new person, a human being, a new life, a new beginning. I have always loved children but the thought of having my own petrified me. Thinking of where to start & how to start drove me insane. New person equals new clothes, new bed, new wardrobe, new pram, new toys basically a new everything which involved money,money, money. Oh Lord why me??? No savings, no planning, no reason, no purpose *sigh*. Why me? Not now, dear God I am not ready. Why now? why me? Not getting along with my boyfriend, my child’s father, not compromising & not agreeing. Just great this is what I need right? & again I asked myself Why me? Not now
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WHY ME?
my gosh I’m not ready. This is not what I wanted, this is not what I planned or dreamed of, I haven’t finished uni, I’m not married, I still live with my mother… This was not the situation I planned on bringing my child into, over & over in my head I kept repeating this daily. I wanted to be well established, settled & ready. Through it all however abortion was never an option… Yes I cried, yes I contemplated it but doing it & actually going through with it was not on the table. I told myself it’s time to suck it up!!! I knew I was not built, to break. This was just a test. I finally found meaning & understanding to the saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” I was fighting a battle that I had already won but of course me being Mrs cry baby cry cry cry I had to cry lol. Its scary yo! Not knowing what you are carrying inside you, not being able to see for a whole NINE MONTHS makes you anxious & curious. Knowing that someone will depend on you for the rest of your life is a big deal. I had a lot of anxiety attacks & I cannot even begin to write it all down in detail because we’ll be here all day if I do lol. But to cut a very long story short (& I mean very very long story) keeping my child through it all & going through all the stress & all the pregnancy scares was all worth it because here I am… here I stand, tall & ready to face whatever comes along the way because I chose, chose to keep my son, chose to move forward & chose to plan as I went along with my pregnancy… I mean they do say ‘better late than never’. I chose to unexpectedly grow up & move forward & take on this
new responsibility because as much as I asked myself why me deep down I knew God chose me, at this point & at this time, for a reason, for a meaning, for a purpose, he chose me to look after this amazing human being, my son for the rest of my life. We all have plans, dreams & hopes. We all have expectations, we are all driven by a force we cannot see nor feel but we know that life always takes an unexpected turn. However we still have control over some of our decisions & some of our actions do determine what our future will be like. Whatever you are faced with no matter what stage you are in your life always remember that where you are & what’s happening is meant to happen. Nothing is a mistake. So embrace every minute & every second of it. Everything in life has its time just like seasons change no matter how old you are whether its marriage, school, a baby, a house, a job. Your time will come when you least expect it… I mean hey I told myself I wanted to finish school & be married at 25 with 2 kids… Guess I’m doing it the other way round huh? Always remember that life is not a competition so if your wheels of fortune turn out different don’t sweat it. We all come to a point in our lives where we ask ourselves why me? Why now? Why with this person? But trust & believe that it is you because it is meant to be. Take it all in & appreciate it with all that is within you because someone out there would do anything for what you’re ungrateful for. Right now & right here. It all begins & ends with you otherwise there would be no you.
BLOGGA MAMA by Miss Lulu
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D I S H O F T H E D AY ASUN
A
sun is a popular Yoruba delicacy of Ondo State,Nigeria, Typically made with smoked goat meat and scotch bonnet pepper. when hosting a family dinner, Asun can be served with Plantain or Jollof rice. However, you can also switch it up and serve it at parties as an appetiser,alongside other finger foods. Although traditional Asun is known to be HOT HOT !! The recipe can be modified to suit personal palate.
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Ingredients for Asun • 1kg goat meat • 2 scotch bonnet • 1 large onion • 2 stock cubes • 1 teaspoon thyme • Salt • Black pepper (optional ) Asun garnish • 1 large onion • 1 green pepper • 1 red pepper Preparation 1. Cut the goat meat into chunks 2. Wash the meat with cold water 3. Add the spice into the bowl with meat and gently marinade 4. Place the bowl of meat in the fridge for 1-2 hours 5. Pound the scotch bonnet and place to on side 6. Cut the onion in chunks
Making Asun 1. Use a pressure cooker and place the marinated meat 9goat meat is tough so pressure cooker is ideal to cook through the meat ) 2. At medium heat add the big chunks of onions and half a pot of water 3. Add salt to taste 4. Increase the heat to high and stir until the water has absorbed. Don’t pour any water away as you will lose flavour 5. Place the the goat meat on the grill and smoke it or( Place the goat meat on a flat oven tray and place in the oven 180°C) 6. Turn over the meat ever few minutes (This should take 15 minutes ) 7. While you are grilling the meat, wash and cut green, red peppers and remaining onions 8. Place the Asun in platter tray and garnish with onions ready to serve
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CLINTON ELVIS “An overall vibrant, smooth, charismatic Entertainer”
Cliinton Elvis singing on Let it Shine
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t the tender age of 9 performing at various clubs performing Michael Jackson songs with rehearsed routines for the Ugandan Community in East London is where it all began. Listening to the likes of The Jackson Five, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, New Edition, Boyz 2 Men, Sisqo (Dru Hill), Chris Brown, Usher, Chris Stapleton, Fred Hammond, Justin Timberlake, & more. Now at the age of 24 Clinton-Elvis the singer, songwriter, rapper, musician & entertainer as recently seen on the
nationwide television programme Let It Shine 2017 on BBC One (Gary Barlow’s search for five boys to take on the role of The Band in his new musical produced and directed by Tim Firth & Take That) featured as the first contestant then making it all the way to the live semi finals as one of five members of the band ‘Iron Sun’. "An overall vibrant, smooth, charismatic Entertainer" mixing and blending genre styles such as R&B, Soft Rock Pop, Reggae & his African culture into his sound creating a vibe that generates joy through his music.
Follow On Snapchat @ClintonElvis Follow On Instagram @ClintonElvisOfficial
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Gallant Belle Page 80
@gallantbelle gallantbelle@outlook.com
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BackCover Credits
Photographer: Goldhouse Production MUA/Model: PIP Glassesby: BlacShade
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