Luminosus Spring 2009 by Julene Chung

CANADA’S LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR POST-SECONDARY STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Editor’s Letter A

lthough few can pronounce it, surprisingly even fewer have asked me why I named this magazine Luminosus. Luminosus (pronounced “loo-min-OH-sus”) is Latin for “bright” and can be used to describe something that is shining or inspirational. This is a life-style magazine; and in that order. You could be reading Luminosus to discover a healthy mac-n-cheese recipe, figure out what to do with your degree, find a new track to download or just to scout a cute pair of Christian Louboutins. Regardless, our aim is to provide content that will inspire you to live your life abundantly.

LU MINOSUS Fashion | Music | Health | Career Spring 2009 Creativity Director ELOHIM Publisher/Founder Julene Chung Pre-Press Design Andrew James for Design Intelligence Website Design Mark-Anthony Shepherd B.Sc. LumLuxe/Cover Model Keshia Chanté Stylist Jr. Phillip Make-up Aniya Nandy Hair Janet Jackson/Plutino Group Feature Photography Claudia Hung Other Photography Matt Yeroschenko

It sounds pretty, but it isn’t always easy to do. I learned that while putting this magazine together. I’ve also learned how important it is to keep your dreams alive. If you have a vision, the provision will come (even if we are in the middle of a global recession). That’s how powerful destiny is. Speaking of which, I have to thank God for all the people that popped into my life just in time to get put to work. Seeing this all come together has been one of the biggest come-to-Jesus moments of my life and I know it wouldn’t be possible without you. Thanks again for your contributions to this project; especially those of you who pulled allnighters and answered my countless e-mails.

Fashion Special Editors Jahmilla Small B.A. Joanna Lynch B.Sc.N Plush Embassy

This is just the beginning of something really special. I’m already looking forward to our next issue! Until then I’ll be posting messages and behind-the-scenes videos on our editor’s blog, lumlive.blogspot.com. Subscribe or add our facebook page so you don’t miss anything.

Distribution Talk of Toronto

Tikum Olam,

Jules

Honours B.Sc. Candidate Publisher/Founder

Event Photographer Robert Okine Interns Shaina Perrotte Joel Douglas Farid Mashatan Other Contributors Julia Teeluck B.A. Taha Bandukwala B.Sc.

Advertising sales@lumlive.com Questions/Comments feedback@lumlive.com Special Thanks Tess Agnelo, Simone Bartolomeo, Rhiannon Clifford, Stephanie Cole, Janet Cramp, Andrew Gibson, Gary Gooding, Emily Hawkins, Aaron Henry, Bryan Ishiguro, Marie Koprich, Neeta Lulla and team, Joseph Moncada, Jessica Reid, Jared Rosenburg, Vanessa Snider, Tia Sutherland, Ivona Radon, Kaydian Radway and Jessica Way. Printed in Canada Editorial content and advertisements are completely independent. Medical and health information herein is not a substitute for professional medical care. Please consult your physician in regards to your personal health concerns. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without expressed written consent by the publisher and the corresponding copyright holder(s). Luminosus magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited material. Luminosus is published semi-annually by Sparklin Productions & Promotions 100 City Centre Drive Canada Post P.O. Box 2017 Mississauga, ON L5B 3C6 ISSN# 1913-3731 Volume 1 Issue 1 Spring 2009 (February/March)

4 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Contents : Lip Ser BEAUTY

vice

eur trepren n E n o ti a : Gener CAREER

a eeta Lull ICON: N

resh N: So F FASHIO

na D: Gha WORL

Gold

ON THE COVER: Keshia Chanté Styled by Jr. Phillip Make-up by Aniya Nandy Hair by Janet Jackson, plutino group photography by Claudia Hung THIS PAGE: Carlie Wong’s “Gangster meets Glamour” SS09 collection at L’ Oreal Fashion Week photography by Robert Okine

FASHION F(X) = FUSION 18 PROJECT PLUSHWAY 28 MARKET FRESH, CATWALK CHIC, BUDGET FRIENDLY 33 MUSIC KESHIA CHANTÉ: SOUL, STILETTOS & PHILANTHROPY 21 NEXT 34 WHERE TO BUY 34

Spring2009

EDITOR’S LETTER 04 ART: DANCE THAT’S LIKE A DREAM 06 HEALTH: STDS: MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK 13

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 3

Art Dance that’s Like a Dream Tilt Topples Teens’ Barriers to Modern Dance with the Debut of Slept Away.

Slept Away (red dream, blue dream) by Louis Laberge-Côté Dancer: Jessica Wilson Photo Credit: David Hou

FOR A GENERATION OBSESSED WITH FACEBOOK AND GUITAR HERO, Tilt sound + motion’s Slept Away (red dream, blue dream) is a pastiche of pop culture that serves as an apt introduction to contemporary dance. Created by award-winning choreographer Louis Laberge-Côté, the piece delivers a captivating and clever fusion of audiovisuals, drama and dance. Although the show debuted in 2007, its November 6th performance in Mississauga was the production’s first presentation to an all high school audience*. “Most choreographers don’t create for this age group, but Louis hit it,” says Michael deConinck Smith*, managing director and company co-founder. The ingenious choreography of Laberge-Côté was executed exquisitely by a strong cast of young dancers; Christophe Brochard, Elke Schroeder, Emily Tench, Zhenya Cerneacov and Mississauga-native* Erika-Leigh Stirton. The performance began cunningly as Stirton, clad in a pink bath robe, yawns and slips into a front-row seat unnoticed in a theatre filled with loquacious teenagers. The audience is finally hushed by twelve foreboding chimes as the theatre darkens and three white sheets swirl mysteriously across the stage floor. Although the air of mystery draws the audience in, it is the nagging sense of familiarity throughout the piece that holds their attention. Slept Away tells the story of a teenaged girl who enters her own midnight dreamland. The piece is narrated alternatively by the girl and a monotone male voice, reminiscent of the documentary narrator that made you fall asleep in grade 11 biology class. Although the storyline gradually falls away, the themes of romance, horror and play make the piece accessible anyone who is just discovering modern dance. Even the costumes weren’t too lofty, as the dancers were dressed in causal clothing you could find in anyone’s closet. The hybrid work also incorporates obscure visual and audio excerpts from iconic Hollywood blockbusters like Titanic, leaving the audience wondering, “Where do I know that from?” The audiovisuals (arranged by Jeremy Mimnagh) play supporting roles to the choreography for most of the production, but take center stage midway through. Here, a female and a male dancer are in the dark as a video of a woman whispering to a man plays on the screen. During the video, phrases like “dreams never die” and 6 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

“one can hurt one without meaning two” flash on the screen. In the moment such phrases make sense, but like most dreams, after deciphering these phrases, you find they have no logical meaning. The illusion of meaning also evident in the fact that the words heard during this segment are in a foreign language. Despite this you feel as if you know exactly what is being said. The production’s most memorable moment, however, borrows from the commonly known Greek myth of Medusa. The lighting design by Arun Srinivasan (associate lighting designer of Mirvish Productions’ The Lion King) creates an eerie atmosphere and arguably the most intense mood in the piece (the scene where Ophelia is running away from Hamlet runs a close second). The light dims and centers as projections of Medusa’s face draw nearer and nearer to the eyes. Simultaneously Stirton, a former gymnast, performs an adagio with awe-inspiring elegance and control. The audience, mesmerized by her serpentine twists, turns and hisses, is absolutely silent as the music fades and the remaining dancers turn into stone statues. The tension is unexpectedly broken by a bubbly museum curator who retells the story of Medusa. The audience giggles as the statues come alive and eventually carry her off stage, while “silence is so sexy” plays in the background. Not only does the use of acting supply comedic relief throughout the piece, it also serves as a further testament to the versatility and multifaceted talent of this company. And by incorporating drama and popular dance styles, such as hip hop and martial arts, Slept Away is able to fulfill the company’s mandate to expose younger audiences to contemporary dance. “I think they got it,” says Tilt dancer Emily Tench as she prepares to leave the dressing room. And with the enthusiastic applause the performance received, it is safe to say that Slept Away is the company’s most successful original piece to date. Tilt Sound + Motions’ Slept Away (red ream, blue dream) continues its tour of community theatres across Ontario in spring 2009. For show times and locations visit, ccdt.org. *Special thanks to Michael deConinck Smith and the Tilt dancers for their gracious hospitality and additional insight.

DESIGN INTELLIGENCE think. create. inspire.

Providing high end print and web design accessibly, affordably and intelligently. for more info email: think.create.inspire@gmail.com LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 7

Career GENERATION ENTREPRENEUR A closer look at a few of Canada’s thriving young entrepreneurs.

Byran “Ishi” Ishiguro, internationally renowned fashion photographer. Photo by Ishi. 8 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Byran Ishiguro, 25 Ishi Studios

Jessica Reid, 20 Jessica Reid Designs

With natural talent and instinctive entrepreneurial skill, at the age of 25 Bryan “Ishi” Ishiguro has already become an internationally recognized photographer. “Photography was another one of my hobbies that I always did, but I never knew that you could make a living doing this…”

University of Ottawa biology student, Jessica Reid doubles as an aspiring MD and a fierce business woman. Her company, Jessica Reid Designs, creates distinctive jewelry pieces that can be tailored to any style or budget. Jessica says, “not everyone can afford Tiffany’s or Cartier, but we all should be able to afford something beautiful that reflects our own personalities”.

After graduating from high school Ishi apprenticed at a machine shop, ran a landscaping business and even worked at a gas station before rekindling his passion for art. After building a portfolio, he began applying to various colleges, and eventually enrolled into a design program at Seneca-at-York in Toronto, Canada. “I [choose to study] graphic design…because it was very broad. I thought it was a good foundation or starting point.” Even as a college student, Ishi’s entrepreneurial instincts were at work. “I’ve always been really proactive…I used to always go to design events to network…so after school I would be well prepared for my next step”. While studying, Ishi was commissioned to work on corporate branding projects for the college. His work was also entered in national and international competitions, winning a total of twelve awards and scholarships. After graduating, at 21, Ishi went on to open an independent design firm with a business partner in downtown Toronto. Although the firm focused on web branding and boutique work, the duo soon opened an art gallery where Ishi was able to network with industry insiders. However, it was rekindling his passion for photography that was the catalyst for his career success. After building a small collection of photos, Ishi presented his portfolio to Ford Models, one of Canada’s most prestigious modeling agencies. In exchange for free photography, Ishi was given access to new faces to build his portfolio and gain more experience. Several months later, Ishi presented his portfolio to Elmer Olsen, who introduced him to Fashion magazine. This introduction allowed Ishi to land the magazine’s biggest fall story in 2006 and a contract with agent Anne Desrochers. “It has always been [my] passion to have my own business,” says Ishi, who has now established his own photography studio, Ishi Studios. His work spans Canada, Europe, Japan, and the U.S. with companies like Nike, Dove, and Holt Renfrew as clients. He is also a regular contributor in Flare magazine here in Canada, Plaza Magazine in Europe, and Clear Magazine in New York.

Jessica launched her business in 2007 as part of the Summer Company Program run by the Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship. The program provided Jessica with a mentorship group and the start-up funds needed to get her business running. Through this program, Jessica was also able to gain valuable skills and life-lessons she hopes to apply to her future goals. Jessica cites self-motivation as one of the key factors to her success as a business owner. She also credits the strong support of her mother, father and siblings. Since turning her hidden passion of designing jewellery into a successful enterprise, Jessica has presented her work at the Harbourfront Centre, the Mississauga Rotary Ribfest as well as the My Mississauga’s Art in the Park. Jessica has also auctioned off her some of signature pieces; rising thousands of dollars for charity.

Joseph Moncada Sweet Tooth Candy Emporium As the 2008 ACE National Student Entrepreneur Competition title holder, Joseph Moncada represented Canada at the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards held in Chicago, Illinois last fall. “For me, [the ACE National Student Entrepreneur Competition] was not solely about winning money but rather about introducing Sweet Tooth to a new community”, Joseph tells the media. “It has further facilitated my growth and introduced me to new connections that will hopefully last a lifetime.” The IBBA student from the Schulich School of Business at York University founded Sweet Tooth Candy Emporium in 2006. Sweet Tooth Candy Emporium consists of mall kiosks and stores that offer retro and imported candy from around the world. This network of ultimate candy shops boasts outlets in high-traffic locations around the Greater Toronto Area and Wasaga Beach. Like Jessica Reid, Joseph started his business through the Ontario Summer Company program and sustained it while studying as a full-time university student. Since its conception, Sweet Tooth Candy Emporium has developed into a thriving franchise which employs over 20 full-time and part-time employees. LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 9

GENERATION ENTREPRENEUR

Continued

way to eliminate jewelry clutter, Tia registered her business as Realeza Presents in 2006. Realeza, pronounced ree-leh-za, means “royalty” in Spanish and reflects the sense of self-worth and confidence Tia would like to impart to her clients, “I’m a certified image consultant…so it all ties in.” Today each jewelry pillow is custom made in 100% satin and is available in a variety of colours, patterns and sizes. In a few short years Realeza Presents has already attracted the attention of Sway Magazine, Plush Embassy and local boutiques. Realeza Presents is also featured on several popular online shopping sites such as ladylicorice.com and niyamelodieaccessories. com.

Model and certified image consultant, Tia Sutherland, founder of the couture line of décor accessories Photo by David Leyes Photography.

Tia Sutherland, 27 Realeza Presents… Model turned “entreprenista”, Tia Sutherland turned her personal storage frustration into an innovative way to neatly organize and showcase jewelry. “I fell into it by accident,” she explains, “I was looking for a pair of earrings…that happened to be tangled with a necklace. As I untangled them, the earrings broke and I was very upset. I thought there had to be a better way to organize.” Tia then took an old pair of jeans, thread and a chain and created her first product, the Couture Jewelry Pillow. News of her creation quickly spread through word-of-mouth among her family and friends. “People would come over and see the pillow hanging on the wall and ask where I got it from and if I could make one for them.” Recognizing the demand for a trendy 10 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

The Princesa Pillow in “Saigon.” Photo by Roswell Anderson. In addition to holding a diploma in business administration, Tia is currently studying marketing at Humber College. “I’ve been modeling since the age of five, so fashion has always been a big part of my life…I still model but now my focus is on the business,” says Tia. With plans to expand into a full line of products that cater to fashion’s elite, Tia astutely attends fashion tours, networking events, and business seminars. “I’ve realized now more than ever that to succeed as an entrepreneur, especially a female entrepreneur, I must believe in my business and most importantly convince others to believe in it as well. And what better way to accomplish that than through networking!” Tia has also used her networking skills online through her blog “Realeza Revolution” (realezapresents.blogspot.com) and Facebook, with a group already nearing 400 members.

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 11

Beauty

Lip Service 1. Effortlessly combine modern sleekness and that classic glam rouge without the drying wax of a lipstick with M.A.C. lipglass in “cult of cherry.” Available at M.A.C. locations nationwide.

4. All the goodness of smooth sans petroleum jelly! Candy Paint soothes your lips with aloe vera and shea butter, and still shines. Available in “Grown & Sexy” and “Sugah glaze” at carolsdaughter.com

2. Attention all gentlemen! Cracked, dehydrated lips are not attractive. So you might want to try Labbri’s newest lip treatment. It’s innovative, all-natural formula is perfume, colour and allergen-free. Available online at dermstore.ca

5. Kissable Couture was something special since the “first kiss”. And like any good relationship, each application builds into a luxurious hue without weighing you down. And these luxury glosses finally ship to Canada! Available online at kissablecouture.com

3. Keep your lips looking luscious and soft between sips of hot cocoa with waterproof Velvet Touch lip liner in “nougat” and a hint of pink lip gloss (#0010) from Gosh Cosmetics. Exclusively available at Shoppers’ Drug Mart.

12 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Health antibiotic resistant strain). Viral STIs, however, have no cure but can be managed with the right medical therapy. The proper use of a latex condom can lower your risk of catching many STIs but doesn’t offer 100% protection; especially from infections transmitted by skin to skin contact. Natural membrane condoms are less protective because they have pores through which pathogens can leak through. Condoms, like other medical devices, have expiry dates and should be stored in a cool, dry place. Condoms should not be re-used or used with oil-based lubricants (like Vaseline or baby oil). And despite the misconceptions, anal and oral sex are not safer than vaginal sex. STIs are transmittable regardless method of intercourse.

Sexually Transmitted Infections are more common than you may think.

T.O. and surrounding cities, local public health officials are reporting increases in the number of new STI cases, especially among young people. The most prevalent of these new cases are Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. General symptoms of STIs include: abnormal genital discharge, pain while urinating or having sex, itching, burning, sores or ulcers, pain in the testicles (men) or lower abdomen (women). Many STIs, however, do not manifest symptoms in everyone who is infected and can only be diagnosed with medical tests. Untreated STIs can lead to birth complications or even the inability to have children in the future. If left ignored, these infections can also lead to more serious health problems like cancer or even death. So don’t let it burn…if it’s gooey, itchy, burning or sore get tested and treated immediately. Most of the time, STIs are not that obvious. Even if the infection is asymptomatic (showing no signs) or does not manifest all the usual symptoms, it is still serious and contagious. Viral STIs, like HIV for example, have incubation periods during which they show no symptoms or cannot be detected by tests. So, people can pass on the virus without even knowing that they are infected. And in the case of infections like hepatitis B, the infected individual doesn’t always get ill, but can act as carrier who spreads the infection to someone who will. Cures are not available for all STIs; but tests are. It is important that you know your sexual health status and get proper medical attention if you become infected. You can have more than one STI at a time and can get the same type of STI more than once. Most bacterial STIs can be cured with antibiotics (unless your infection is caused by an

The saying “looks are deceiving” applies to health as well. Just because someone looks clean and healthy doesn’t mean they are not carrying an STI. Some people will avoid talking about, or even lie about, their status in order to have sex. And if your partner is willing to share a moment of physical intimacy, but not concerns about your well-being, you might want to rethink that situation. Having sex is not like breathing. The onus is on you to protect to yourself. You have control and the power of choice. It is your responsibility to safeguard your health, and that of your partner (not to mention future children, if you have any). Knowledge is power, s o educate yourself and talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns. Here are a just few types of infections you should be aware of: Chlamydia Type of Infection: Bacterial Symptoms: Unusual genital discharge in both men and women. Men may also experience burning, especially while urinating. Women may also experience irregular periods and pain while having sex. Curable: Yes Chlamydia is easily confused with gonorrhea. Most individuals show no symptoms, that’s why it is important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active. If ignored, Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and prostate or testicle infections in men. PID can lead to damage to the fallopian tubes that may cause a woman to become sterile or have dangerous tubal pregnancies. LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 13

HIV/AIDS Type of Infection: Viral Symptoms: May show flu-like symptoms 2 to 4 weeks after being infected. Eventually, the immune system is weakened and the body becomes vulnerable to opportunistic infections like toxoplasmosis and certain cancers. Curable: No HIV/AIDS is not the disease of the old, third world or homosexual. Anyone can get infected with HIV and develop AIDS. In fact, young people aged 15-29 made up 28% of new HIV cases in Canada from 1985 to 2005, with the majority of new cases occurring in Ontario. In Toronto, most cases of HIV are among men who have sex with men. But an alarming

contact. And like other STIs, the more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to get infected. For the ladies: losing your virginity at an early age is a co-factor along with HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. Although you may look mature on the outside, inside your body is still developing its natural barrier of protection. Remember to take a Pap test regularly to check for any irregularities in your cervix.

number of young women are becoming infected with HIV due to a combination of societal and biological factors. Plus, having infections like gonorrhea, genital warts or herpes can increase your risk of acquiring HIV. There is no cure and no vaccine. So prevention is essential. Bodily fluids that c a n transmit HIV are: blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal fluids. Recent advances in medicine have increased the life expectancy of individuals living with HIV so long as they have access to treatment. It’s important to remember, however, that although individuals living with HIV can feel well and look healthy, they can still pass the virus onto others.

Curable: No, but vaccines are available. Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that attacks the liver and is transmitted by exposure to blood from an infected individual. The infection can be either chronic (causing serious liver damage) or asymptomatic(less severe damage). One thing that’s important to remember is that its symptoms develop slowly and Hepatitis B can be passed on even when no symptoms are present. Other types of hepatitis are hepatitis A, C, D and E.

Genital Warts (caused by HPV) Type of Infection: Viral Symptoms: Warts in the genital area that may itch or bleed. Genital warts caused by HPV can also lead to cancer of the cervix and vulva in women as well as cancer of the penis and anus in men. Curable: No, but there are vaccines available and the warts can be physically removed or may heal on their own. Because HPV is the number one cause of cervical cancer in Canadian women, its vaccine has garnered a lot of media attention. With all the hype, it’s easy to forget that men can be infected with HPV as well. This STI is spread by skin to skin 14 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Hepatitis B Type of Infection: Viral Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice, skin rashes, joint pain and slight abdominal pain and jaundice (symptoms can be delayed).

Gonorrhea Type of Infection: Bacterial Symptoms: Smelly yellow or white discharge and pain while urinating or having sex. Women may also have irregular bleeding between periods. Other symptoms include sore throat and swollen glands, if the infection was transmitted orally. Curable: Yes Gonorrhea is highly contagious and one of the most common STIs. It is spread by contact with infected bodily fluids and can also affect the eyes. If untreated, men with gonorrhea can become sterile and experience pain or swelling in the testicles. Most cases of gonorrhea are asymptomatic in women, but can lead to PID, miscarriages and/or blindness in newborn(s).

Syphilis Type of Infection: Bacterial Symptoms: Most cases of syphilis are asymptomatic. If symptoms do manifest, they occur in three stages. A painless chancre sore marks the first stage and appears around three weeks after infection. By four to ten weeks, rashes will begin to appear on other parts of the body (especially on the hands and feet). These rashes may be accompanied by hair loss, swollen glands and muscle or joint pain. In its final stage (10 -20 years later) syphilis can cause disease in the heart, brain and bone. Curable: Yes, but should be detected and treated early to avoid serious problems.

The virus that causes genital herpes is closely related to the virus that causes cold sores. Both are passed on through skin to skin contact with a herpes blister but can also spread when blisters are not present. The blisters can heal without treatment, but often reoccur because Herpes is a lifelong infection. New outbreaks can be triggered by stress, sex, fever or a woman’s period, but become less severe over time.

Syphilis is transmitted by skin to skin contact and through infected blood. Although the early symptoms of the disease can go away without treatment, left ignored and untreated syphilis can cause irreversible damage to vital organs. Women with syphilis can also pass it on to their unborn children, putting their children at risk of serious health problems or death.

should be acidic, odorless, clear or a little creamy and not accompanied by pain). Half of all BV cases are asymptomatic but, having BV can make it easier to get infections like gonorrhea and HIV. Curable: Yes BV is not always transmitted sexually. It is a very common type of vaginal infection that usually goes unnoticed or is mistaken for a yeast infection. BV is characterized by an imbalance between good and bad bacteria. Helpful bacteria, like Lactobacillus, keep the vagina acidic and help to fight against harmful bacteria. Douching or using soap to wash inside the vagina can upset the pH balance and the lining of cells needed to keep the good bacteria around, leaving your more vulnerable to disease. Vaginal pH can also become disrupted during your period or sex (blood and semen are both basic).

Genital Herpes Type of Infection: Viral Symptoms: The first outbreak begins with tingling or burning followed by blisters at the site of infection. Outbreaks can also be accompanied by pain while urinating, itching, headache, fever and flu-like symptoms. Curable: No, but outbreaks can be controlled with antivirals.

Bacterial Vaginosis Type of Infection: Bacterial Symptoms: A grey “fishy” smelling discharge, basic vaginal pH, pain and inflammation of the vagina (normal discharge

This article was written by Julene Chung, a biology student at McMaster University. Julene is an aspiring physician who hopes to establish a holistic health centre that provides recreational and career-oriented programs for youth. Julene also has a strong interest in women’s and adolescent health issues.

RESOURCES This article is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have any personal concerns please contact a local healthcare clinic. For more information please see the following resources. AIDS and Sexual Health Infoline Toronto Public Health AIDS Committee of Toronto Alberta Health and Wellness

1.800.668.2437 or 416.392.2437 www.city.toronto.on.ca/health www.actoronto.org www.health.gov.ab.ca

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 15

Icon Fashioneasta Neeta Lulla “Fashion for me is a life long pursuit of excellence...an honest endeavor to interpret the mysticism that lies beneath the woven thread” - Neeta Lulla

FROM BOLLYWOOD TO HOLLYWOOD, Neeta Lulla has gained international attention for her stunning designs. And one of the primer designers in India, Neeta Lulla is known for fusing ethnic designs with her own unique flare. Throughout her career, Neeta’s creations have been worn by leading Bollywood actresses such as Juhi Chawla, Ameesha Patel, Kareena Kapoor, and Manisha Koirala. She was also the lead designer for the extravagant wedding of Ashwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachan a few years ago. Dubbed the “Queen of Indian fashion,” Neeta Lulla is proud to be known as an ethnic designer but believes her designs are really a fusion of diverse influences. In addition, her story is an inspiration for aspiring designers across the globe. Born in Mumbai and raised in Hyderabad, Neeta readily admits to being a tomboy and a prankster as a young girl. Even now her children tell her to grow up, she jokes. Neeta Lulla married young to avoid going to college, but ironically married into an intellectual family who encouraged her to continue her education. With the help of supportive in-laws, Neeta found herself balancing academic life with life as a wife and mother. After completing her junior college degree in Arts at Jai Hind, and refusing to study further, her in-laws gave her an ultimatum: cooking classes or tailoring classes. She chose tailoring. Reminiscing about her beginnings as a designer, Neeta says the first outfit she designed for a client was a disaster. But the criticism she received made her stronger. Eventually Neeta realized she was more interested in being a fashion choreographer than a regular designer and worked as an assistant to Jeanee Naoroji in the late-eighties. By interning, Neeta gained greater experience in designing and choreographing outfits for movies. She now reveals that each success scared her and left her wondering what she would do next. Despite this she kept pushing herself uphill. With a successful career spanning over 20 years and over 350 movies (including the Hollywood film “One Night with the King”), Neeta Lulla has earned numerous awards and accolades from both the fashion and film industries. She has also gone on to open an opulent two-storey flagship store in Mumbai that offers clients a vibrant array of garments. Yet, Neeta is adamant that fashion is not just her profession, but her passion.

Images © & courtesy of Neeta Lulla 16 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

lumlive.com | 17

F(X) =FUSIONFASHION + TECHNOLOGY

Fashion

SHAKE LIKE A…IPOD NANO? With up to 24 hours of playback time, you’ll probably wear out before it does. The sleekest yet, the fourth generation nano automatically shuffles your playlist with just a little shake. Or you might like to opt for using its 4 hours of video play to catch up on your favorite shows during your commute home. Image courtesy of Apple.

Funny name and all, this line is arguably the Obama of the urban fashion industry. Brimming in positivity, Malyka can be spotted on run ways in Canada and the Caribbean articulating a message of “unity, prosperity and freedom for all people” one design at a time. Shown here are “Uhuru” and “Pure Freedom” available at malyka.com. THIS CHIC ALL-IN-ONE MOBILE DEVICE is sure to be a multitasker’s delight. The LG Voyager boasts a 2.8” touchscreen, full QWERTY keyboard and debonair web-browsing capability that allows you to discreetly update your facebook status or check out CB4’s latest youtube in between (or during) lectures.

LADIES, ARM YOURSELF THIS WINTER WITH A CLOCHE CINTA WOOL HEADDRESS.

DESIGNED BY ARTIST MIKE SCHALL, this shoe is only one of 1 Hund(red) ways a good-looking Samaritan can rock pair of Chucks. As part of their (Product)red collection, Converse commissioned 100 artists worldwide to make their canvas a shoe. A portion of the net sales of each pair benefits the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The (red)volution continues.

18 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

“Cloche Cinta Wool” Code:CLO01W Colour: grey and/or brown

Upon leaving your maison, the Cloche should be the last piece of plush attire you settle into. Best worn with chandelier earrings for added luxury. And for the gents, the Tweed Castro suits just about any smooth gentleman. An attractive mixture of plush grandiosity and sharpness. Perfect for Post-Secondary! –JS Available at Big it Up locations GTA-wide or online.

Certified Plush

Fashion

BEHIND-THE-BRAND: VLNY

Seen on notables from pro-skier Liam Downey to hip hop’s JD-Era, these tees have been creeping up from the underground into the mainstream. Joanna Lynch recently caught up with New York City’s VLNY BRND founder, Ashdin Dalal, to learn more about the brand. And although his admiration for the antagonist is questionable, his business sense and determination is undeniable. JOANNA: What were you doing before VLNY started? ASHDIN: Before the start of VLNY, I was going to college full time as a business marketing major, as well as managing a local skate / snowboard shop. At the time I was also producing and shopping beats to various management teams. For the three years previous to VLNY I spent all my free time digging for and chopping samples and creating beats. I think that I took a lot of ideas I learned when producing beats and brought them to our brand. Like the process of taking something common, and chopping it up and creating something entirely new and fresh can definitely be seen in our designs. JOANNA: What gave you the idea to start a clothing company?

WHO SAYS A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND can’t be Swarovski. This sophisticated toggle-clasp design dazzles and can be paired perfectly with your LBD (little black dress). And its matching bracelet (not shown) calls for a complete à la mode. –JS The Rock Swarovski Toggle can be purchased at ivoryparade.com

Certified Plush

THIS REFRESHING OCEAN CHARM bracelet is a statement of its own. Couple this precious treasure with petite pearl studs to keep your look effortless and classy. -JL “Under-the-sea” hand-crafted by Bonnie, info@roxxjewels.com.

ASHDIN: In 2002, I got the opportunity to intern at Zoo York (Marc Ecko Enterprises). It was through a senior internship program at my high school ran and it gave me the privilege of working and meeting some really influential entrepreneurs. I was able to work with people such as David Ortiz who went on to start DQM, Jeff Pang now of UXA and the original Zoo York owners who now run SHUT NYC. Just being in that environment exposed me to a whole new industry that I was unaware of. JOANNA: How long has the company been in business? ASHDIN: VLNY BRND has been in business for a year. November marked our one-year anniversary and as a new brand, everything we do is still a learning process. The past year has been a successful one for us with the launch of three collections not including our winter line. JOANNA: What are you doing when you not working on VLNY? ASHDIN: Since VLNY is still growing, I still work a regular job to help fund each collection. I’m never not working. JOANNA: Where can Canadians buy VLNY?

ASHDIN: Exodus in North Bay is currently our only retailer in Canada. We’re ironing out a distribution deal with a Canadian distributor called MBM Entertainment, so you should be seeing more VLNY retailers shortly. “Thermo Tweed Castro” Code: TTC02 Colour: multicolored and/or grey

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 19

LUM LUXE KESHIA CHANTÉ

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 21

At13

, she shook up the music scene. And now at 20, Keshia Chanté is preparing to take her place as one of Canada’s most prominent songstresses. Mature, articulate and trés business savvy, Keshia has managed to balance both her career and academics with unflinching work ethic. And despite her crammed calendar, Keshia was gracious enough to star in our first lumluxe shoot between trips to New York and Atlanta, where she is recording her third album. But, Keshia is not the first Canadian artist to migrate states-side for the sake of career (think Avril, Nelly, Kardi, Celine, Deborah Cox…). “If you want to be in the game, you have to be on the field. So I have to be in the states,” says Keshia. With 7 years in the business, Ms. Chanté is not hesitant about giving advice to anyone aspiring to get involved in the music industry “You know what? The music industry…it’s show business and a lot of people love to be in the studio, to be on stage…but at the same time, it’s show business and the business definitely takes over the artistic side. So you have to learn to understand politics. It’s a lot of running around…you gotta get tough skin…you have to know what you love, why you’re there... you gotta believe in God and you gotta work. Work hard…”

RIGHT: CLAUDIA PREPS KESHIA FOR THE NEXT ROUND OF PHOTOS AS LUMLUXE EDITOR, JR PHILLP, AND MAKE-UP ARTIST, ANIYA, LOOK ON. KESHIA’S WEARING A WHITE KNEELENGTH TRENCH FROM BEDO. ABOVE: KESHIA HAVING A LITTLE FUN BETWEEN TAKES.

22 | LUMINOSUS Spring

SEQUINED ONE-SHOULDER MINI (AVENUE COUTURE), BROAD PATENT BELT (BEDO) AND CHARCOAL PEEP-TOES (STEPSS).

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 23

24 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

As a budding entrepreneuse, Keshia not only has a passion for fashion, but a sincere compassion for humanity. Being as socially conscious as she is business conscious, Keshia has volunteered with multiple charities in between recording and filming projects. This past summer, for example, she toured a few World Vision Canada projects in the Dominican Republic. Keshia has also worked with WarChild (an organization dedicated to children affected by wars in the third world), the Stephen Lewis Foundation and BET’s Rapit-up campaign. If all that wasn’t enough, this busy lady is adding “actress” to her CV. This year doesn’t only mark the release of Keshia’s long-awaited third album; it also marks her first major acting role. Keshia stars as Mahalia Brown, church-girl turned pop star, in the new drama “Soul” (Halifax Film/DHX Media Ltd). The role is one Keshia can definitely relate to, as the series focuses on Mahalia’s struggle to make it in the music industry without compromising her own personal identity. The drama also stars Jessica Parker Kennedy and Eli Goree. The six episode mini-series airs on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. ET on Vision TV. So far the series has already garnered a lot of buzz and stirred up rumors of future film projects for Ms. Chanté. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll catch her on the big screen in a couple of years.

CLAUDIA HUNG BEHIND THE CAMERA. ABOVE: JOEL DOUGLAS SITS DOWN WITH KESHIA FOR A POST-SHOOT INTERVIEW.

Styled by Jr. Phillip Make-up by Aniya Nandy Hair by Janet Jackson, plutino group Feature photography by Claudia Hung Behind-the-scenes photos by Matt Yeroschenko Keshia Chanté appears courtesy of K. Chanté Inc. See Where to Buy on page 38 LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 25

World

GHANA GOLD b y Ta h a B a n d u k w a l a I wanted a change, I wanted adventure, and I wanted a new experience. Africa was a continent I knew very little about. All I knew was what I heard in the news; the depressing stories about famine and tribal conﬂicts. I knew there was so much more to Africa than that, so I ventured off to Ghana, West Africa in the summer of 2007, with the only expectation to learn. I was volunteering in the small village of Nsaba when I ﬁrst heard of an orphanage in Kasoa, a nearby town. A fellow obruni (foreigner) told me stories about the orphanage which I simply could not believe nor wanted to. I had to visit this orphanage to see it with my own eyes. I arranged for a place to stay in Kasoa and although it was a few hours away from Nsaba, it felt like a different country. Nsaba was like my home, I befriended the other kids my age and knew my way around. Kasoa was more bustling and chaotic. However, amongst all the chaos of the honks, horns and beeps, the orphanage, just off a main road, stood quiet and still.

singing and dancing settled down, the children told me they have not eaten for two full days. Never has real hunger slapped me in the face so hard. I fast during the month of Ramadan back home, and I thought I had an idea of what hunger was, but I could not imagine the hunger these children were experiencing. Dressed in torn, oversized clothing, the children looked to me for help. I froze. I was unsure of how to react. I’ve read books and articles on these kinds of problems, but now these statistics were coming to life. They were no longer numbers, but actual people right in front of me. Not knowing what to do, I ignored their hunger and asked to see their home.

“So we ate took me to their orphanage and gave me a together, and I They tour. Of the very little they owned, there were very to show me around. The little ones, who were have never seen proud intrigued but scared of a stranger that did not look them, hid behind crumbling walls and peaked kids, any kids for like through the cracks. The other kids sung and danced me, although they had very little to celebrate. that matter, so around The boys’ dorm room had nine beds, for 34 boys. The girls’ dorm room was a bit better, only 29 girls had to share six beds. The pit toilets were dismal. happy.” They were not emptied for years, so all the kids had When I walked to the orphanage for the ﬁrst time, thirty kids ran to me with open arms and they threw themselves on me. After the hug, they danced around me, chanting ‘obruni, obruni, how are you?!’ I was amazed that such a tiny, rather insigniﬁcant gesture from an absolute stranger could create so much happiness. After the 26 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

to defecate by the creek, which was also their water supply. There was a classroom; an empty concrete room with half a blackboard and broken wooden benches. Basic needs do not seem that basic anymore. Even today, ﬂushing a toilet, turning on my laptop, being

“What else warm in my own bed, are things I try could I have very hard to not take for granted. After the tour, the children introduced done though? me to the administration, which I For me it was quickly learned to distrust. There was some money coming into the orphanage from donations, but none all about baby of it was being accounted for. There was deﬁnite corruption within this steps.” orphanage and as a result the kids were suffering. The administration had become so complacent and reliant on volunteers for help. However, there isn’t a steady stream of volunteers, so I worry about what happens to the kids during those lapses.

situation themselves and see in what capacity they can help out. I also managed to leave with a big bag of clothes from a church for the orphans. Even though every attempt won’t be a success, don’t give up. Remind yourself what you are ﬁghting for. For me, the children’s laughter and smiles were all I needed to keep going. And it was their potential that hit me the hardest. One of the orphans, Eumannuael, was taught to read and write by one of the previous volunteers, so every night he would go ﬁnd a streetlamp and write marvelous stories. When Eumannuael shared his stories with me I have never been more impressed by a child. These stories had plot

After playing with the kids (they played ‘food’ where they pretended to make food out of mud because they were so hungry), I bought a big bag of rice and starting cleaning a few cooking pots. When the kids saw me working, they helped me out. So we ate together, and I have never seen kids, any kids for that matter, so happy to eat. Their smiles were infectious, and I was so happy to let them clamber all over me and tell me stories and play with my hair (which at that point was getting rather long). The next day, I went to the orphanage to play with the kids for a bit, then I went into town and made connections with a septic removal company. After an hour of bargaining, the company agreed to come in and clean out the pit toilets for a small charge. It was so funny seeing all the kids plug their noses when the trucks came to suction out the pit toilets. Pit toilets, check. What else could I have done though? For me it was all about baby steps. I noticed that the orphanage had a little patch of land, so I consulted with some local farmers to see if it was fertile; and it was! I sat down with the administration and a few farmers in the community for four hours and we planned this small patch of farm. I then went into town to get the proper tools and seeds and we began tilling and weeding the land. After returning home, I found out that

and character developments, taught morals, and were so intriguing, that you would be shocked to hear a 12 year old boy with no formal education wrote them. Another boy, 8 years old, went all over the town ﬁnding little scraps of metal and built this amazing wind-up car, that

“Being uncomfortable can be a powerful motivator to create change.”

four months after I left, the farm had its first harvest. The little surplus of corn, peas and cassava was sold in the market and provided the orphanage with its first generated income. The farm’s contribution will probably not save the orphanage from hunger nor will it create enough income to do so. But the farm can enable the orphanage to get on the first rung of the ladder of sustainability. Charity and donations are not the answer, sustainability and partnerships are. Although my personal capacity was limited, I still felt I could have done more. I didn’t have enough money nor did I know enough people that could help but I went into Accra, the capital city, to visit UNICEF. I literally had to sneak past the secretary and went banging on the door

when you pull it back, it propels the whole car forward, powered by an ingenious rubber band tension system in the axles. Sheer brilliance. It saddened me that their efforts are put to finding water and food and not in furthering their education. When I returned to Canada, I was disgusted by way we live and the way we care so little about humanity. I was depressed for a bit, because I kept comparing our lifestyles to the way of life in Ghana. I was revolted at how a university student can blow $50 at the bar, when that same $50 could feed the whole orphanage for a month. After a great deal of self-reflection I realized that I am not the same Taha that I was before I left for Ghana. That’s the beauty of it! I realized that leaving your comfort zone that is so difficult to do, but once you’ve done it, it’s liberating. It can be a burden too. A burden in the sense that, you cannot go back to your comfort zone and hence you stay ‘uncomfortable’. This can be a good thing though, because being uncomfortable can be a powerful motivator to create change. “Uncomfortable” experiences like these allow us to grow and become more conscious of our actions - why we do them, how we do them, who they will affect. I realized it is alright to take care of myself. That doesn’t make me a bad person as long as I still apply what I learned in Ghana and try to teach others. A lot of people may never fully understand my experience. “How was Ghana?”-I cannot answer that in one catch phrase. This was my experience to cherish and grow from.

of a Program Director. He was kind enough to let me in and talk (partly because I was a foreigner). I pleaded for UN support of the orphanage, but the program director said UNICEF is all about the numbers and they couldn’t dedicate their resources to an orphanage with only 50 or so orphans. A bit deﬂated, I left, but instead of going back home, I went to the big churches. The pastors there were a lot more receptive. I got a few pastors to promise to visit the orphanage to assess the

I encourage you to go out there and ﬁnd your orphanage, your experience or collection of experiences that challenges your identity, your pursuits, your thoughts and your actions. I truly believe that the orphanage has single handedly have had the biggest impact on who I am as an individual. It taught me to live in a state of impermanent tolerance with a resolve to continue to challenge and change. I would love to continue sharing and talking about my experiences and also about your international experiences. Contact me at taha. bandukwala@gmail.com LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 27

Fashion

Project Plush-way PLUSH EMBASSY FOUNDER, Jahmilla Small witnesses the technology-infused debut of Carlie Wong’s “Gangster meets Glamour” SS09 collection at L’ Oreal Fashion Week. Meanwhile, LG simultaneously celebrates the debut of a stylish collection of its own. Photography by Robert Okine Wong’s 1930’s-inspired collection is detailed and luxurious. She says this of her designs: “I want the women who wear my clothes to feel feminine, yet empowered and unstoppable.”

d. c.

e. g. 28 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Fashion

m. a. LG celebrating the debut of their own collection: Dare, Reveal, Voyager and Wine. b. The glamourous Carlie Wong of Project Runway Canada. c. Jahmilla with hip hop artist J Diggz inside the L’Oreal Fashion Week tent. d. Jahmilla with Nathalie Atkinson, fashion editor of the National Post. e. Jahmilla with Andrew Barrett, VP of marketing for LG Canada displaying his exclusive diamond-studded LG phone. f. Jahmilla switches jobs with Wilder Weir, correspondent for Cosmopolitan TV. g. Models enjoying the scene post-runway h. Vested wide leg jumper and fabulous oversized sunnies. i. Pocketed pencil skirt, silk blouse and LG phone pendant necklace. j. Belted trench, clutch, t-strap stilettos and a très chic driving gloves. k. One-shoulder LBD with peep-toe pumps l. Backless pocketed jersey jumper, and gladiator pumps m. Ivory rufﬂe dress with black skinny belt, t-strap stilettos and leather driving gloves n. Off-shoulder jersey LBD with gold cuff. o. Ivory crisscross dress with skinny gold belt and gold cuff. p. Single-strap sweetheart gown complete with silver bangles. q. Finale walk

p. q.

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 29

SO FRESH

Fashion b.

Guest editor, Joanna Lynch of Plush Embassy, gives you a sneak peak of Spring 2009 at Toronto’s industry-only, 100% FRESH SHOW. Photography by Robert Okine

d. m.

n. o. l.

j. a. Two guests enjoying the masqueradethemed cocktail party b. Joanna: “I ♥ this brand!” (Kitchen Orange) c. Joanna’s top two picks: an Ultra-plush short-sleeved charcoal jacket and butterscotch jumpsuit (Kitchen Orange) d. The LWD- little white dress (Mouse Ji Paris) e. Coogi highs and lows f. Kickin’ it regally with Shmao Footwear g. If you think there shoes are nice, wait until you see their bags! (Chinese Laundry) h. City chic (Rampage) i. Four models wearing Soaked In Luxury j. Guests mingling after the show k. Gavin (left) and Adrian (right) of Urbanology Magazine l. Democrata Shoes: Take your pick gentlemen. m. Yay Vancouver! (Missico Girl accessories) n. Jump! Footwear o. Coming soon from Pastry.

k. 30 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 31

Fashion

Julia Teeluck: Can you summarize the overall goal or look for spring 2009?

Joseph Mimran: What you saw is a small microcosm of the entire collection. [A total of 47 outﬁts were shown.] I mean, our collection is made up of hundreds and hundreds of pieces. [...]So essentially, what we do is distill it down to a nugget of an idea based on what we’ve done for the season, for the catwalk… What I really wanted to do was, I wanted to focus on some of the yoga and active pieces that we do because that is a very big piece of our business as well. I wanted to mix it [...] with the streets wear to show the customer [how to mix and match] and to give it a different spin than we’ve done before. [I wanted to] put many of the new silhouettes like the genie pant and the exaggerated jumpers and the one piece together in a way that would be wearable. The accessories were clear, again, sort of a hint for the need for transparency in today’s society and the importance of that and how all that all ties together into a new-age kind of look into the future.

MARKET FRESH, CATWALK CHIC, BUDGET FRIENDLY. Freelance writer Julia Teeluck discusses affordable spring fashion with Club Monaco and Caban founder, Joseph Mimran. Photos courtesy of Joe Fresh Style/Loblaw Companies Ltd.

JT: Do you have a favourite item out of the collection? JM: I think certainly, the pieces that I love the most are the ones that talk to the clean aesthetic. But at the same time, it is about the newness of the silhouettes. I love all the new silhouettes. I think they’re really really fun and interesting. Those are the pieces I gravitate to. It’s hard for me to pick a favourite because I love so many. [In fact, Joe checks and approves every piece before it makes it into the ﬁnal collections. It is no Beige wonder that he loves so raincoat many of them] One of my and favourites was the “memtransory taffeta” bubble skirt lucent [$39, available in various tote with colours like orange, bright fresh yellow, soft blue, pink, and oranges lilac] that came out at the end. It’s more of a street wear piece, but with the elastic hem it gave it a little different sports vibe. Royal blue buffalo shirt and walking short

Joe Fresh Style Spring 2009 Runway Canary yellow buffalo shirt paired with white walking-short

THE KING OF CANADIAN FASHION and Creative Director of Joe Fresh Style™, Joseph Mimran, spoke openly about the brand’s spring 2009 collection which showed at Toronto’s L’Oreal Fashion Week. The Joe Fresh Style™ brand prides itself on maintaining low, affordable prices. It is deﬁnitely a brand you will want to check out, if you haven’t already, considering the unstable condition of the economy. You won’t have to worry about the brand raising its prices because it closed at an estimated 400 million last year, which is incredibly successful for a company that has only been around for two years. There are 350 stores nationwide. The stores are constantly replenished and updated. Elaine Quan, who is the Senior Manager of Public Relations at Joe Fresh Style said that one store can receive a shipment of approximately 80 boxes in a month.

JT: If you had to choose a fruit to represent the collection what would it be? JM: You noticed that the girls were carrying oranges in their transparent totes [$24]. Orange is the colour of our brand and represents freshness and a zest. Julia Teeluck is a freelance writer based in Toronto. She also contributes to VERVE, a bi-annual fashion and arts magazine.

LUMINOSUS Spring 2009 | 33

MAKING HIS SPACE: MATEO

Ohio-native and Morehouse College alumni, Mateo, worked as a corporate consultant in NYC before moving to LA to pursue a fulltime music career. “I felt like I was wasting my life when I stepped into the ofﬁce every day. If you have a passion or a dream, any road that takes you away from that is taking you away from your true self,” says Mateo. “I realized music is in my soul, not in a cubicle, so I bounced.”

ADMISSION TESTS 101

DAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, and PCAT. For those who do not have a degree in forensic rhyming (youtube “RSI parody”) stay tuned for our breakdown of pertinent information and helpful prep tips.

EDITOR’S BLOG Our only ofﬁcial blog and the best way to keep up with LUMINOSUS between issues! Subscribe today for free access to behind-thescenes videos, photos and commentary. Online now: Jule’s review of Ailey II’s recent Canadian performance. http://lumlive.blogspot.com

With artists like India Arie, John Mayer, Coldplay, and Keane as inﬂuences, Mateo’s music is best described as a fusion. In addition, Mateo’s newest single “Complicated” is a testament to both his technical skill and soulful, organic quality. “This song is a personal journal,” Mateo explains. “It’s me thinking I’m trippin’ and I don’t want to trip, but in the end you can’t help how you feel.” You can listen to “Complicated” and download Mateo’s latest mixtape “Underneath the Sky” (presented by Mick Boogie) for free at http://myspace.com/mateo

LOVE AND LAVISH

Ailey II’s Jarvis McKinley and Megan Jakel in Sidra Bell’s Valse. Photo by Eduardo Patino, NYC. Photo courtesy of Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation, Inc.

Your guide to eco-friendly and socially conscious body products like the Body Shop’s Papaya Foaming Bath. Its lavishing lather of cocoa butter nourishes your skin and provides community trade income for a harvester in Ghana. Questions, Comments or Suggestions? Reach us at feedback@lumlive.com

Where to Buy

LUMLUXE BEDO 318 Queen St. W., Toronto 416.506.1580 Avenue Couture 87 Avenue Rd., Hazleton Lanes, Toronto 416.962.7399 Stepss 100 City Centre Dr., Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga 905.273.6105 LIP SERVICE dermstore.ca maccosmetics.com carolsdaughter.com kissablecouture.com shoppersdrugmart.ca F(X) = FUSION malyka.com bigitup.com ivoryparade.com info@roxxjewels.com

Photo by Matt Yeroschenko 34 | LUMINOSUS Spring 2009

Couture Jewelry Pillow realezapresents.com

DESIGN INTELLIGENCE think. create. inspire.

Providing high end print and web design accessibly, affordably and intelligently. for more info email: think.create.inspire@gmail.com