LOCAL INFLUENTIAL CAREER NEWS MOMS SPEAK Written by Dr. A. Martin
S
ome women seem to be able to do it all! They have highly successful careers yet they are able to perform the role of mother which necessarily demands a measure of commitment, dedication, sacrifice and most importantly time. How do these seemingly super women do it? We decided to chat with 4 influential mothers to get a sense of their experience of career motherhood and to also give them an opportunity to share some advice.
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Photo by Elise Romany
SAMANTHA JOHN To Trinidad and Tobago she is the face of CNMG news but at home she is a wife and mother to two boys, aged 15 years and 17 months respectively. With 13 years in the business of Media, Samantha John has been successful in the spheres of theatre, radio and now television, while managing her role as mother. She recalls that being a media professional was quite demanding especially in the early phases where one can be expected to work a grave yard shift or attend late night events. However despite the challenges, she acknowledges that motherhood had a positive impact on her career and she credits her ultimate success to her kids, “I knew I had somebody else depending on that cheque besides myself.” The birth of her first child marked a time when she was involved in many projects at the same time and this she said resulted in the loss of valuable mother-son time “… I was in theatre, I was in radio, I started television and all things that resulted in more time away from him, you can never really get it back… so I think for many years I felt a bit guilty like I was always working too hard or too much but it actually paid off. But it was a huge sacrifice and I had family support and support from my boyfriend who is now my husband so that he turned out to be a good teenager.” Her last pregnancy and the related maternity leave resulted in a break which she had not taken for 10 years and a subsequent rec-
Samantha John
The ET&T WEEKLY Tabloid is published by ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited in the island of Trinidad and Tobago and is protected by strict copyright laws and is not to be reproduced in full or in part without the written consent from the management of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited. ©Copyright Abstract Media Group Company Limited 2013. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: The views expressed herein are expressed by the writers and do not reflect the sentiment of Abstract Media Group Company Limited.
ognition that she didn’t want to hustle or juggle her time between work and her kids anymore, “I wanted to attend parent teacher meetings … I was not meeting parents etc…. I didn’t have time to go to the playground and sit and meet other parents ... it’s a form of support.” These days she works solely at CNMG and runs her own online radio station at Babybabbleradio.com from home, which she says allows her
to connect with an audience on a range of topics including parenting. She and her husband also manage the Red Noise Studio (Rednoisestudio.com) which specializes in imaging and audio production. While she acknowledges that performing the multiplicity of roles, of wife and mother and worker can be overwhelming, she suggests that one strategy to maintain balance and sanity is to find alone time whether it be a Margaret Elcock
spa day, exercise or indulging in a glass of wine, “sometimes you have to step away from all your responsibilities and just maybe have a girls lime, maybe just read a book and maybe just be alone … life is a total bombardment ... if you get caught up in it you can actually notice that your thoughts are never about you or what you need as a mother or as a wife … to keep a happy home you need some time for yourself, you need some time to smell the coffee instead of drinking the coffee ... every woman needs some time for herself… our family thinks that we are superwomen and we can’t crash and burn but that’s very false… keep your sanity...” MARGARET ELCOCK With a distinguished 33 years as a Media professional, Dr. Margaret Elcock President/CEO of the Family Broadcasting Network and I.S.A.A.C 98.1 is the first woman to found and preside over a National Radio Station in Trinidad and Tobago. The value which she places on family and Christianity via her life and career choices can be seen in her approach to her own immediate family which comprises her husband and 5 kids, one deceased, ranging from ages 25 – 41, “Let prayer be the foundation of your home, the family that prays together stays together.” Given the hectic
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LOCAL NEWS demands of media and the young ages of her children when she started off in the Media business, her management strategy involved employing a housekeeper and making a conscious effort to spend time with her family especially throughout their school life, even utilizing social media tools such as skype to communicate regularly with those who lived abroad. For her the ability to watch her children grow and develop and the capacity to shape, nurture and mentor them for life was her greatest joy. She advises mothers to be simultaneously ambitious and career oriented, “I am career driven but I am also family driven. There must be balance. I have learnt over the years that family matters first. When the career days are over, it is the family relationships¬ you retire to. Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it {Prov. 22: 6}.” JACQUI KOON HOW She is the engine behind the famed ‘House of Jacqui’ brand which ultimately provides training for aspiring models. She is also a Carnival band leader for a successful kid’s band. She has been a mother to the many young persons who have passed through her academy, “the House of Jacqui is a large extended family, I have children living all over the world, and I love and cherish them all. The experience is extremely rewarding, and I go to bed with a smile on my face every night....I scold them, correct them, guide them, and love them.” Additionally she is also the proud biological mother of 49 and 41 year old girls and one 44 year old boy. She recalls that “the best part of motherhood was watching my children grow and develop into three completely different adults, each with their very own personality, but with the same values and principles of life.” Throughout the years she has identified time management as her greatest challenge as her profession demanded that she travel frequently as well as work many late hours, “It was balancing, juggling, falling down, getting 2
understand that they are the most important elements in your life, but not the only elements.”
Jacqui Koon How
back up, but always with love and laughter, and positive vibes.” Her days usually started as early as 4 a.m. to do housework, homework, get the children ready for school, plan shows, reach out to the media, source garments for shows, or choose music, conduct rehearsals, teach, wash, iron as well as include time for chatting and laughing with her kids. She advises that
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career moms keep engaging their children in their work processes, “communicate with your kids, let them understand the order of things. Let everyone be on common ground.” She further suggests that mothers balance their love for their children with their love for themselves, “…help them to realize their dreams, but don’t neglect yours. Let your children Nehilet Blackman
NEHILET BLACKMAN Though she successfully launched and leads Trinidad and Tobago’s first all-female band, D’ All Girls Band, Nehilet Blackman, who has been singing since the age of 3 with her family band, Ras Shorty I and the Love Circle, counts her almost two year role as a mother as her greatest accomplishment. In between pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on Voice and managing her business, House Of Music & Entertainment (H.O.M.E) which is a hub for music and musicians with 2 studios, 2 band rooms, a living space for musicians where rehearsals, vocal training and music production are conducted, she finds time to care for her young son, particularly enjoying his different growth stages. The epitome of balance, she was even able to perform throughout her entire pregnancy, “When I went to Ghana I was 8 months pregnant and for my last performance at Open House I was 9 months pregnant so I performed right up until.” While enjoying motherhood, she admits that time is a challenge. Her days sometimes start at 4 a.m. and while she is devoted to her education and career she also knows that spending time with her son would afford her the joy of watching him grow. Blackman’s advice to career mothers is to incorporate their children in their life as far as they can, “if music is what you do, let your child get involved, not by force … but them being around it will help them be influenced musically… Victor has been a part of the musical family, D’ All Girls band so he has been there at every rehearsal and he fell asleep to the music from since small because from since he was in the belly I have been around music.” In terms of managing multiple roles on a daily basis, she also offered the simple tip of preparing the night before, “Sometimes it’s challenging.. I am a new mom, Victor is my first but apart from that it’s fun.”
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LOCAL NEWS
THE ESSENCE OF WE MUSIC IN APP
Written by D. Nandlal
G
erman philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said, “Without music, life would be a mistake.” I am sure many of us can relate to this statement since music often goes far beyond entertainment purposes. In the Caribbean, music is the soundtrack of the islands. It is a way for cultural expressions to take place and fuels the energy and soul of the islands. It is our passion. With this in mind and a deep desire to share Caribbean music with the world, David Hamilton set out on a mission to create an app that will allow this. After much research and networking, We Music was created. Speaking with the Marketing Director, Blaine Thomas, he stated, “We Music was created to provide a music streaming service to consumers, and to be a platform for our artists to share their songs with the world. It was birthed to provide an on-demand live stream from our extensive library and to help support our artists by providing royalties to them based on profits made by the company.” In addition to that, the app also acts as a global platform for artists, producers and musicians
Blaine Thomas
to connect with others and build an audience. Furthermore Thomas believes that West Indians who have migrated, long for something they can identify with. “What better medium than music?” According to Thomas, the response for the app has been quite positive. “We're averaging just over 1,000 downloads per month since launching in early November last year. The app’s current rating is 4.0 and that is based on reviews by over 90 users. More than 70,000 songs have been played by our users since launching.” The application presently has a music library of over 20,000 songs by more than 3,000 artists that users can listen to. They have partnered with Trinidad Tunes who has already accumulated the large library of songs that is on the application. The way the app functions is; once someone downloads the app, they can immediately begin listen-
ing to songs absolutely free. After a user has listened to two songs, they are prompted to register via Facebook or email. Then the user can continue listening. Users can create their own playlist, which can be saved for later use and they can follow an artist to see all the songs the app has of that artist as well as receive updates when new songs are added. Uses can also expect to listen to songs downloaded on the app without Wi-fi connectivity or data in the near future. Though the app is only available on Android devices, they are currently developing the Apple and Windows versions. Their goal is to attain downloads of 10%15% of the country's population. However their vision is not just national, but regional as well. Thomas revealed that they are targeting the Caribbean diaspora, as they would like to expand the music catalogue by including music from all Caribbean territories. “We understand the enhanced global recognition that reggae and dancehall music has compared to soca and calypso. Therefore we believe that acquiring music from Jamaica can greatly expand our business. We also intend to allow artists to upload their own songs on the app.”
So what makes We Music different to existing apps as such TuneIn and iheartRadio? According to Thomas, it is because We Music is striving to be the hub of music nationally and then regionally. More so it s a cultural shift whereby artists and the public alike will go to We Music first to publish and listen to new material. Despite the fact that the app will not provide a radio stream like Tunein, it will soon introduce pre-recorded playlists, some of which may be from popular disc jockeys. Furthermore, We Music has the largest Trinidad and Tobago music library on the market. Thomas said there is no other music-streaming app with as large a library of Caribbean music. “We are similar to apps such as Spotify, which is not available in the Caribbean region.” Thomas believes that with growing awareness, We Music will be a nationally recognized brand within three years. “As our user base expands, we foresee music artists wishing to advertise their songs/albums/mixtapes on the application. Music streaming on one’s phone is slowly becoming more popular, so we are confident that soon we will be a part of the country’s popular culture.”
RICHARD YOUNG JOINS CANADIAN TEAM AS CREATIVE DIRECTOR FOR MONTREAL CARIBBEAN FASHION WEEK 2015
T
he province of Québec, Canada, is pleased to have Mr. Richard Young as the Creative Director for the first-ever Montréal Caribbean Fashion Week (MCFW) in May 2015. Hosted by Playmas Montréal Cultural Association, the occasion coincides with the 36th anniversary of the Montréal Ebony Model Agency. For Mr. Young, the experience has been an eye-opening one, even with over 25 years of experience in the regional and international fashion industries. "The intricate, important details of the French influence in Montréal and the alarmingly large number of creative Caribbeans who have made Montréal their home fascinates me," he confesses. In his opinion, this in4
augural event creates a gateway of possibilities for targeting export to niche markets in the eclectic multicultural hub of Montréal. "Montréal Caribbean Fashion Week also sets up networking links for new partnerships in the creative realm, among like-minded, innovative entrepreneurs. I am excited for this event's future." Richard is pleased to be working in this diasporic space alongside Gemma Rayburn-Baynes, President of the Playmas Montréal Cultural Association, and was welcomed with open arms by his Canadian counterparts. He credits his extensive work in Haiti (Fashion Week), French Guiana, Martinique and Guadeloupe for preparing him with the tools neces-
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sary to understand the melting pot of culture in Québec, as well as its international, cross-cultural French influences. Keeping consistent with this year’s theme “Chocolate, Wine & Fashion”, MCFW patrons can expect to be treated to delectable chocolates from the Caribbean at each event, paired with spectacular Québec wines. The runway is also set to display a grand showcase of haute couture and ready to wear fashion designs, which include Trinidad Designers Tyrone Nelson, Athaliah Samuel, Robert Young of the Cloth, and Lisa Marie Henry of Liilah Swimwear. The cast of models will also feature Trinidadian muse and former beauty queen Athaliah Samuel. Other design-
ers will originate from Barbados, Guyana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, New York, St. Kitts, Toronto, U.S. Virgin Islands and Montréal. In total, organizers have confirmed over 30 designers to be featured at the MCFW event. During this festive final evening creatively directed by Mr. Young, Johanne Sternthal, celebrated fashion guru, author and philanthropist will be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This sparkling event will wrap up with a starstudded After-Party, featuring Juno Award Nominee Freddie James. Montréal Caribbean Fashion Week is scheduled for May 7–9 2015.
LOCAL BLIND ARTISTE SEES PAST NEWS STRUGGLE THROUGH TALENT
J
oel Osteen once said, “I believe that God has put gifts and talents and ability on the inside of every one of us. When you develop that and you believe in yourself and you believe that you're a person of influence and a person of purpose, I believe you can rise up out of any situation.” Kwesi Osei is a living, breathing testimonial to Osteen’s words. He is a young man who loves surfing the internet in his spare time. This sounds like any typical 24 year old. But he has a unique challenge. He was born with vision in only his left eye and then at age 19, he sadly lost total vision in both. Before this tragedy, Kwesi had no formal training in the music industry. However, he always had a passion for the field partly because his dad and broth-
Lyndon Andrews, Kwesi Osei and Anthony Brotherson
ers are artistes, so the influence was there from an early age. His influences include Kerwin Dubois and Timberland. So despite his circumstances, Kwesi found the courage within himself, with support from family, friends and other simi-
larly abled people to pursue his dream of being a music producer. He enrolled in the Music Production and Audio Engineering Program at 5Z1 Productions in Port of Spain. There he was able to equip himself with the necessary skills to develop infrastruc-
ture on his own. In the Music Production course students are introduced to 2 industry standard software packages: Logic Pro and Pro Tools, as well as basic Music Theory and the Keyboard. The Audio Engineering program focuses on professional recording and mixing concepts that are used to ensure an audio project adheres to the standards of the industry. He truly is a great inspiration, not only for youth but for all of us, to reassess our own circumstances and pursue our life’s calling, no matter what it might be. Describing himself as “determined” and “immaculate,” Kwesi has plans to open his own studio in the future. He definitely lives up to his favourite quote and life motto- that “The race is not for the swiftest but for those who can endure to the end!”
SAN FERNANDO FASHION WEEK TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO 2015 “RETURN TO HERITAGE, A WAY TO SEE OURSELVES” Fashion Sixty 4 New york
Samanta Samuel
C
oming from A successful Launch on March 29th San Fernando Fashion Week Trinidad and Tobago will kick off their 10th Golden Anniversary Production on May 31st at the spacious Palms Club in San Fernando. An explosion of Creative Designers and Merchandisers will present their best products, which will be available for sale and order at the venue. This year the committee has coordinated a Merchandisers Exposition which will include various businesses displaying and marketing their products from 2:00pm and will flow right into the fashion segment which will include local, international and regional designers. Some of the countries which will partake are:-USA, Bahamas, Barbados, St.Vincent and St. Lucia while our local designer line up will include: • Deneicere Designs
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• • • • •
Carrie Taylor Moneer Designs Lesa G Designs Kerby Young Designs Ayinde’s Chalkboard
Some of our sponsors and supporters include: - Clinical Sound and Lighting (CSL), Maybelline, Kotex, Jadda's Exclusive, Alexander Photography, Flavors by the Pierre’s, Foot Candy, Caribbean Belle, Creative Arts Center and Royal Hotel. Some of the merchandisers which will be part of the exposition this year include Festive Moods Rental and Decorating, L’Histoire D’une Femme,Kerby Young Design, Khan’Zu Ltd,Black Dimond Marketing and Distribution Limited. If you feel you have a branded product that is ready for market/ display, please feel free to contact the SFFWTT committee via email at sandofashionweek@gmail.com
REGIONAL NEWS
ASSASSIN’S COLLAB WITH KENDRICK LAMAR REACHES BILLBOARD HOT 100 Revered dancehall veteran, Assassin aka Agent Sasco can lay claim to another landmark achievement in his accomplished career as his collaboration with Grammy-winning rap superstar, Kendrick Lamar has reach the Billboard Hot 100 music chart. The Blacker The Berry cracked the chart at number 86 just over two months after its release. The song, which has picked up well in excess of 10 million views on YouTube, has sparked much debate across music circles with its sharpshoot-
ing lyrics addressing racial stereotypes. This is the second single off Kendrick Lamar’s Billboard chart-topping album, To Pimp a Butterfly. This marks the first time Assassin has ever made the prestigious chart. Assassin has amassed a flurry of collaborations with some of music’s biggest stars in the last two years, joining forces with Grammywinning rapper/producer, Kanye West on the single, I’m In It in 2013 as well as Kardinal Offishall, Lil Jon on the remix of Turn Down For What, Wu-Tang Clan member and rap legend, Raekwon as well as Canadian songstress, Melanie Fiona.
RUSSIANS JAILED FOR DANCING TO AIDONIA’S SONG Raymond ‘Shadow’ Small, publicist for dancehall artiste Aidonia, believes that dancehall music continues to hold significance especially in light of the arrests of Russian women, who were dancing to the artiste’s ‘Touch You Tonight’ at a war memorial recently. “Clearly this music has a global impact. For them to be dancing to Aidonia is a great thing. People have always said that dancehall music has been on
WORLD NEWS MICHELLE KEEGAN NAMED SEXIEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD BY FHM MAGAZINE FHM has named its Sexiest Woman In The World for 2015 and it's ... someone you've probably never heard of before. The magazine gave actress Michelle Keegan the title this year, and we're guessing our lack of familiarity with her might stem from the fact that she's mostly known for a handful of roles on British TV shows such as Coronation Street. Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence, Kate Upton, British TV personality Caroline Flack and Ariana Grande also made the magazine's 2015 list.
PAMELA ANDERSON REPORTEDLY TO RECEIVE $1 MILLION IN RICK SALOMON DIVORCE Pamela Anderson and Rick Salomon are revisiting old ground: divorce! The news is they have officially reached a settlement following a bitter feud. In February, the 47-year-old former Playboy cover girl filed for divorce from Salomon, also 8
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a slump, when in actuality the music is far-reaching,” Small said. A teenager was jailed for 15 days and two other women for 10 days after they filmed themselves dancing near the world war monument in the Russian city of Novorossiysk. The 18-year-old was placed under administrative arrest for petty hooliganism. The 24 and 26-year-olds, who received 10 days, were taken to a detention facility, while two other women were fined. The parents of a sixth female under age 18 were charged with “failing to perform parental duties for raising minors”. According to the prosecutors in the case, the “erotic and sexual twerk dance” was disrespectful to the memory of those who fought in the Second World War. They were reportedly filming a video at the memorial to promote dancehall classes.
47, after one year of marriage. TMZ states that the poker player filed for an annulment at the same time. It was reported by several media outlets that Anderson actually held Salomon’s dog captive for three weeks during divorce proceedings and posted several tweets stating how bad he was at sex. The site adds that they’ve reached a deal, which pays Anderson a little more than a million dollars. Anderson also won’t challenge his Nevada residency — she once claimed he was trying to dodge paying taxes on a $40M poker win.
DREAM
GUY
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Photographer: Roger Jackson of Absolutpics
NAME: Isaiah Garcia AGE: 21 HEIGHT: 5’8 WEIGHT: 155 CAREER: Student/ Martial Arts Instructor BRIEFS OR BOXERS: Briefs because they are more comfortable and they look better on me. FAVOURITE THING: My favorite thing would be the feeling of accomplishment when I worked extremely hard for something and then I reap the rewards for the effort which I put out. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: My dream girl is a strong, ambitious female who has the ability to put a smile on my face. At the same time I am able to hold intelligent conversations with her. I don’t pay too much attention to the looks of a person, but I have a thing for women with curly hair. YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: Yes I have been, but that is a part of life. YOUR HERO: My late karate teacher, as he played a big part in molding me into the person I am today. FAVOURITE FOOD: There are so many kinds of food I love,
but if I had to pick one it would definitely be lasagna. THE WAY TO YOUR HEART IS: A person who can hold a conversation with me and genuinely make me smile. But cooking for me also helps (lol). YOU’D NEVER: Purposely do something with the intent to hurt someone. WHAT ABOUT PETS: I like dogs and cats, but it has been a long time since I last had a pet. THE ONE THING YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE: Create and leave something behind that will live on long after my time. FAVOURITE ARTIST: Michael Jackson… I loved his music growing up. FAVOURITE MUSIC: Soca, R&B, Rap. FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A MEAL: This is embarrassing, but nothing beats eating a doubles in front of a doubles stand for me. HAVE YOU EVER CHEATED: No and I am hoping it stays that way. YOUR WEAK SPOT: Definitely my neck and back. YOUR MOTIVATION: I am motivated to do many things, but each of them has one thing in common and that’s to maximize my potential to be the best. THE KEY TO YOUR LOOK: I am a very active person as I do several forms of martial arts, running and I love to hit the gym but I am a firm believer that abs are made in the kitchen.
MODEL MANIA Name: Stephanie Craig Age: 23 Hometown: Chaguanas Career: Bank Teller Stephanie Craig describes herself as an extremely ambitious
individual who readily grabs any available opportunity which presents itself. No doubt she’ll be keen to do what it takes to fulfill her aspirations as a future Petroleum Engineer/ Makeup Artist and Designer. She followed in the footsteps of her well-known model sister Valene and has five years of modeling herself under her belt. Suring that period she worked with photographers such as Richard Munroe, Ronaldo Roberts, Stephen Simmersholm, David Fraser, Kerron Riley, Anthony Skully and
more. She has also secured ad spots for Orchard Vibe, Bmobile and White Oak. Stephanie’s favourite designers are local talents and she speaks highly of the work of Rhion Romany and Ryan Chan. The people she is unlikely to speak well of are those who are impolite as that is her main pet peeve. When asked how she maintains her model figure, she had this to say. “I usually don't drink anything but water and fresh juices… I've completely cut out soft drinks. I don't diet because my metabolism is natural-
STEPHANIE CRAIG
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ly high, but with regards to meal planning, I would try to stay away from flour mostly at night and I try not to eat after 8 at night.” Craig was a little more methodical in her approach to beauty and fitness. “I wash off all makeup completely before bed, cleansing, toning and moisturizing to keep skin fresh. I would also moisturize before I apply makeup to keep skin healthy,” she said. “With my schedule being hectic as it is, I try to fit in gym or even home workouts at least twice for the week. Weekends are used for running on the Lady Chancellor hill.”
FASHION
MAKEUP LOOKS FOR HOT MOMS Just the right amount of blush and lip color will have them blushing.
Stun them with your smoky eyes and match your nails and lip colour for extra effect.
Fierce and steely, yet fine enough to keep them fixated is this seminude look.
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A dab of colour will show them you still have a wild side.
FASHION Revel in retro makeup and still stand out among your contemporaries.
Rediscover your earthy spirit with moody shades of mineral makeup.
Shimmery and sensual in equal parts in this look with dark lips and light eyes.
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ET&T
HOT
I
SEAT
MS. CHARLI GRIFFITH
f you are to believe her Facebook page the words that would best describe Charli Griffith are Dynamic, Diligent, and Diverse Diva. If you ask us, we think that description is spot on. The enigmatic entertainer who describes her approach to musical genres as that of a Fusionista has been in the biz for quite a while. She worked with some of the industry’s biggest names and as half of 2Ntrigue was one of T&T’s hottest pop sensations. We caught up with Ms. Griffith on the eve of Mother’s Day to discuss everything from her new music to motherhood and more. ET&T: Your music has witnessed several incarnations from singing in a gospel youth choir, to singing soca and R&B fusions. Your newest single is reggae influenced. How do you describe your sound? CG: My sound has been deemed eclectic since the birth of 2ntrigue. I made up and acronym for music since this is what i do… Make Universal Sound Integrate Completely (music). ET&T: What went into the creation of the single (Writer/producer/ inspiration)? CG: “You Got Me” was actually pretty easy to come up with. The inspiration came from my personal experience with my special someone. The producer is Whizz of WMG lab studios. I love the fact that their music always has some element of live instruments. Also, it was not penned, it came from heart to mic on the spot. ET&T: 2Ntrigue is known as a duo. However, you are doing your solo thing on this single. What’s up with that?
CG: My sis (Kelli Nova) and I decided we wanted to work on solo projects since we both felt the need to experience different aspects of this musical journey. ET&T: What can we expect next? CG: I am presently working on a couple things. The end result an album entitled “LOVE UNDEFINED” and since I am big on creating acronyms… I will share my view on L.O.V.E. ET&T: What do you think needs to be done for local non-soca artistes to get accepted by the local masses? CG: I’ve always believed we as a people need to know who we are. We are diverse, multi-faceted and colourful. Local artistes honing their own in different genres need to come together and create a forum to be recognized and eventually acceptance will follow.
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What
do
you
consider to be your most fulfilling entertainment career experience to date? CG: Fulfilling… will be the “She’s Royal Concert” that my siblings and I hosted in aid of my then ailing Mom. Nothing beats the appreciation and pride seen on her face. ET&T: Recall the most difficult moment you had to endure in your entertainment career. CG: Choosing to walk away just as it was about to blow as I learned then I was pregnant with my son. ET&T: What does the word mother mean to you? CG: A Molder of character, an Optimist of blind faith, a Teacher, a Honer for attributes instilled, an Everlasting nurturer and a Reverent counselor. (M.O.T.H.E.R) ET&T: What’s the best advice you can share with the single mothers reading
this? CG: I would say to pay attention to your kids. They are the best gifts you can ever give or be given. ET&T: Name three mothers who have stood out as exemplars to you. CG: My deceased Mom Celia Griffith, Michelle Obama, Virgin Mary (lol). ET&T: Anything else you would like to add? CG: As a mother myself, I would say nothing you do would ever compare to being a success more than contributing to grooming a great human being. On another note, stay tuned and request my music on a station near you! (LOL) Thanks for the love and HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!!! www.facebook.com/ MsCharliGriffith www.twitter.com/MsCharliG www.instagram.com/ MsCharliGriffith
ET&T PAYS HOMAGE TO DEXTER JENNINGS FIERY FOREST FASHION
rue fashion is all about art and expression. No T artist can express themselves
fully by staying in their comfort zone. Dexter Jennings often pushed the bounda-
ries of contemporary fashion and his wardrobes helped to create several of our stylish backdrops. His untimely demise has left a chasm in the local fash-
FASHION
ionscape that will never be filled. Until we meet again, your work will continue to be celebrated by us. Enjoy one of our favourite spreads featuring his clothing.
Photography............. Marlon Rouse Make-Up..................... Leasel Rovedas Hair Stylist................. Ama Williams Wardrobe.................. Dexter Jennings Creative Director ..... Anthony Gomez
Daringly Baring
Much like forbidden fruit, these styles look too tempting not to touch.
Naturally Nice
A Prelapsarian innocence is reflected in this modern day Adam and Eve.
Jungle Fever
Romance knows no bounds. A walk in the Jungle never seemed this Casual.
Man versus Wild
It’s a jungle out there. Be prepared for anything nature throws at you.
Animal Instincts
A vicious vixen in her natural element. Can you be this bold?
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MAY, 2015 • ET&T 17
TOBAGO JAZZ EXPERIENCE 2015 T
EVENTS
he biggest event on the Tobago entertainment calendar came and went without a glitch and ET&T concedes that is was well worth the marketing fanfare it received. Miguel, J-Hud, Kool & The Gang, Jill Scott, David Rudder, Busy Signal, Machel Montano, Romain Virgo and hometown people such as Shurwayne and Fya Empress all graced stages across the island for the week-long celebration. The Pigeon Point Heritage Park hosted the well-attended World Music Night which featured all the foreign big guns in their glory. We have some photos for your viewing pleasure.
Fya Empress forms part of a duet
Ladies love Jazz
Pan in yuh pwephm
Jill Scott flashes a trademark smile
Posing with her parasol
Miguel leaves it all behind
Busy Signal engages the crowd
Jazzing it up
We’re equally surprised
Machel made it back to the sister isle
There was no shortage of smiling faces
Clowning
Vocals on show
Letting loose with the strings
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MAY, 2015 • ET&T 19
EVENTS
LIBERATION DAY
here’s nothing like the Gospel to get you T going. Liberation day took place at the end of April and it proved that all is not lost in our
wild and vile country. People who chose to put God first braved the blazing sun and took to the streets for a walk of praise. The march culminated with a concert at the Queens Park Savannah featuring some of the top names in Christian entertainment. There was a large turnout for the event and the vibes were enormous as well.
A pro-salvation crew
Harmony in motion
Vocals and instrumentals on point
Feeling the spirit
Who said young men lost?
Making his message felt
Working the word
Hands raised for Christ
Repping in their Liberation Day gear
Dyer did his thing
Sean Daniel spotted with his wife
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A family affair
Positive and Minty
EVENTS
BAYSIDE
ith a name like Bayside, one can only imW agine what to expect at the event venue. Beach-themed attire, women like sand and mu-
sic to create waves. These elements were all present at Pier 1 for this mega event. Scantily clad women writhed to the music as the guys stole wines where and when they could. Drinks flowed like rivers and the vibes was incessant. One of the best post-carnival events this year so far. Check us on Facebook for a full gallery. Here is a sneak peek.
Ian Alleyne and Swappi share a celeb handshake
K. Rich performs with K.I. and crew
There were a few guys present
Ashleia looking as fine as can be
Dude almost ruined an awesome photo
… And the Lord said “It was good”
Both females have flawless skin
Baby got back
Socaton creator Mr. Renzo
Feeling pretty
She had a ball
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EVENTS
How promoters like to see their events
One of the hardest working DJ’s in the game
Comfortable in her skin
Two reasons for being there
Nothing beats smiling ladies
Very well put-together
These two rocked out together for a while
The essence of GT
Ready to activate
Darkie whey yuh from?
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MAY, 2015 • ET&T 23
INTRODUCING
COCONUT UNSHELLED A delicious blend of natural coconut, passion fruit nectar and premium French spirits that offers superior mixability. Satisfy your customer’s taste for the islands with New Alizé COCO.
LIFE’S MORE COLORFUL WHEN YOU MIX IT UP. ™ Mix It Up Responsibly. | © 2012 Kobrand Corporation, New York, NY | Alizé COCO Liqueur 20% Alcohol by Volume | www.alizecoco.com
FLARE @ THE FALLS WEST MALL
EVENTS EXTRA rancis Fashions, 212 Location, Little Black Dress & Co, Bang F Bang and several other stores pro-
vided wardrobe selections for a variety of models at the Falls West Mall’s annual fashion show entitled Flare. Some of the industry’s biggest names had a hand in putting the showcase together and ET&T was there to share some of the sights.
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MAY, 2015 • ET&T 25
WE THINK THERE’S BEEN A MISTAKE… he title does not refer to the Fashion Police squad. In fact, we are quite meticulous when it comes to our jobs. It really refers to T what the perpetrators and their accomplices should and probably would have said after the fact. Unfortunately, as long as you leave your home in those sorts of garb, you are liable to be judged harshly. When people try to compensate for something they believe is missing, they usually end up overcompensating. Then, it’s a case of water more than flour. Here, it’s a case of boob more than bikini. We’re all for boobs, but this just looks ill-fitting and unnatural.
Unless this is Extempo Monarch The Mighty Lingo (which he isn’t) he made a grave mistake by wearing sunglasses in the absence of the sun. Obviously he is in the shade from the moon.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
PAPARAZZI
VETERAN ENTERTAINER EDDIE CHARLES IS SEEN CHIPPING THROUGH THE STREETS AT POINT FORTIN JOUVERT
HANS DESVIGNES IS SPOTTED DANCING BACKSTAGE DURING A HOSTING GIG
POPULAR SONGWRITER/PRODUCER MR. SHAFT IS CAUGHT TIEFIN A WINE AT MYSTERY OF THE BLACK BOX
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MAY, 2015 • ET&T 27
CELEB PROFILE
KYLIE JENNER
Name: Kylie Jenner Age: 17 (August 10, 1997) Profession: Television personality/ socialite/ model/ fashion designer Claim to fame: Kylie was born in Los Angeles, California to parents Kris Jenner and former Olympian Bruce Jenner. Kylie has one full sibling, Kendall Jenner. She also has 4 half siblings from her mother’s side: Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian West, Khloé Kardashian and Rob Kardashian, and 4 half siblings on her father’s
side: Burt Jenner, Brody Jenner, Brandon Jenner and Casey Jenner. Kylie is the youngest child of all of her parents’ children. Kylie began her modeling career with the Sears line "Crush Your Style" and has since done photo shoots for OK! Magazine, Teen Vogue, and photographer Nick Saglimbeni. She also modeled for Avril Lavigne's Abby Dawn Runway in 2011 for New York Fashion Week. Kylie has expressed an interest in acting but feels college is a greater priority. Kylie is a part of the Kar-
dashian Kolors by O.P.I. She has 2 colors called "Wear Something Spar-Kylie" and "Rainbow in the SKylie". In 2012 Kylie was featured alongside her sister, Kendall Jenner, on the cover of Teen Vogue. However, Kylie sprung to personal prominence thanks to her relationship with rapper Tyga even
MOVIES
BOX OFFICE GOLD S
not forget that there have been three Alvin and the Chipmunks movies to date.
ome movies just have box office gold written all over them. Some are sure bets and others inexplicably disappoint. These two movies fall into the sure bet category. Don’t believe us? Just wait and see.
Minions It’s no surprise to see the breakout Despicable Me characters receive their own film. In the movie, Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlet Overkill, a super-villain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the
world. The nasal-sounding yellow guys could test parental tolerance levels, but let's
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Magic Mike XXL The second movie is completely different from the animated family fare in Minions. This x-rated comedy drama will no doubt cash in on the sex appeal of Channing Tatum (Mike) and his gang of stripper friends. Put simply, it’s the continuing story of male stripper, Magic Mike. Amber Heard, Elizabeth Banks and Andie MacDowell also star in this film that is likely to rake in big bucks.
though she was not yet 17. She has been able to parlay her modeling and socialite endeavours into great wealth just as the other Kardashian sisters did. Even at her young age, Jenner recently purchased a $1.4 million two-bedroom, 2.5bath condominium in Los Angeles as her primary residence.
ET&T IS PUBLISHED BY ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP, PREMIUM COMMERCIAL COMPLEX, SAN JUAN, TRINIDAD, W.I. • TEL: (868) 638 1156/9 • FAX: (868) 638 1160. PRINTED BY THE OFFICE AUTHORITY - PRINTING DIVISION AND DISTRIBUTED BY AMG