Contents Issue 6| March 2012
FEATURES 9
Ten Year Old Published Author: Kristina Cardoza
13
Miss Blease: Belize’s First Lady of Music
20
From Caribbean Fashion Week to Vogue Italia, Drenna Luna is Taking the Fashion World by Storm
20
Ethiopian/Swedish Singer, Hailee Araya, Serving Up a Healthy Dose of Talent!
24
From Trinidad to Australia, Meet the Fun & Fearless Songstress, Shazelle
29
Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week
30
Triple the Focus Launch Party in Jamaica
32
Women You Are All That
COVER PHOTO CREDIT
15
Lauren Dunn “I do consider myself a brand, I’m not trying to be cocky or conceited either, I genuinely believe that I put myself out there for people to either accept me or reject me.”
PHOTOGRAPHER: Joel Finnigen Issue 6 | March 2012 3
Editor’s Note This issue comes at a bitter/sweet time. In addition to celebrating the strides that women have made over the years, we are also mourning the loss of one of music’s most unreasonably talented singers, Whitney Houston. It is not without great effort that I write this note because I remember growing up as a child loving the “Queen of Pop’s” music, movies and personal style. However, I am reminded that while she may be gone from this earth, she leaves with us music that still has and will continue to have an indelible impact. Whitney you will be missed greatly by so many, RIP! March is Women’s History Month and we are celebrating in a very BIG way with an all women cast and I loved every minute of putting it together. As mother, daughter, sister, friend, wife, lover, grandmother and godmother, we play such a pivotal role. No longer are we stay at home wife and mother, we are CEOs of fortune 500 companies, Entrepreneurs, Lawyers, Judges, Pastors, Heads of Movie studios, Actors, Designers, etc. We have toiled and broken barriers no one could conceive and remain the backbone of society. Our importance is captured eloquently in Dr. Fontaine’s article entitled “Women You Are All That.” As is our custom, we continue to roll out the red carpet for some of music’ most promising rising stars and this month we are pleased to introduce to you, DJ Blease from Belize, Shazelle from Trinidad, Hailee Araya from Lund, Sweden, Lauren Dunn (our cover feature) and ten year old author, Kristina Cardoza - all women making their mark. In light of Fashion week – or should I say “Month” the issue would not be complete without a peek into what’s hot for Spring/Summer 2012. The talented designer Arlene Martin of Drenna Luna has given us
I AM EVERY WOMAN, IT’S ALL IN ME! VIP front row seats to preview her line as showcased during London Fashion week. I guarantee that you will want every single piece in your closet – I have already made a mental note of the pieces I will be sporting this summer. In closing, I hope that you will enjoy this issue dedicated to all women. The features were written with you in mind, so please share with your family and friends. And until next time, don’t forget that you are phenomenal in every sense of the word. Thank you for all you do to pave the way for women to follow. Maya Angelou: A Phenomenal Woman Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size; But when I start to tell them, they think I’m telling lies. I say, it’s in the reach of my arms, the span of my hips, the stride of my step, the curl of my lips. I’m a woman phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me. I walk into a room just as cool as you please, and to a man, the fellows stand or fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me, a hive of honey bees. I say, it’s the fire in my eyes, and the flash of my teeth, the swing in my waist, and the joy in my feet. I’m a woman phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me. Men themselves have wondered what they see in me. They try so much but they can’t touch my inner mystery. When I try to show them they say they still can’t see. I say, it’s in the arch of my back, the sun of my smile, the ride of my breasts, the grace of my style. I’m a woman phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me. Now you understand just why my head’s not bowed. I don’t shout or jump about or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing it ought to make you proud. I say, it’s in the click of my heels, the bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, the need of my care, ‘cause I’m a woman phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me.
Stacey Bethel
Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@TripleTheFocus.com
ABOUT WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH “Before the 1970’s, the topic of women’s history was largely missing from general public consciousness. To address this situation, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women initiated a “Women’s History Week” celebration in 1978 and chose the week of March 8 to coincide with International Women’s Day. The celebration was met with positive response, and schools began to host their own Women’s History Week programs. The next year, leaders from the California group shared their project at a Women’s History Institute at Sarah Lawrence College. Other participants not only became determined to begin their own local Women’s History Week projects but also agreed to support an effort to have Congress declare a national Women’s History Week. In 1981, Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and Rep. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) co-sponsored the first Joint Congressional Resolution proclaiming a “Women’s History Week.” In 1987, the National Women’s History Project petitioned Congress to expand the celebration to the entire month of March. Since then, the National Women’s History Month Resolution has been approved every year with bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.” Source (direct quote): http://womenshistorymonth.gov/about.html.
STACEY BETHEL Editor in Chief Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE Public Relations: MICHELLE GAYLE Business Relations: NATASHA P. DUNN Photographers: CHAMPION HAMILTON | AJAMU MYRIE Graphic Designer: RUPTION DESIGN STUDIOS Beauty: RENEE BAPTISTE | KRYSTLE KAREE MAKE-UP Contributing Writers Shantell “Shanz” Hill Jody-Ann Williams Rev. Dr. M. Frances Manning-Fontaine Stephen “Cat” Coore Mighty Pen Snow McCullen
ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Triple the Focus is a Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle E-Magazine published monthly. Released October 5, 2011, the goal of the E-zine is to provide a platform for industry insiders that will assist in connecting them with their fans on a more personal level. With behind the scenes photos, exclusive interviews, fashion and lifestyle tidbits, Triple the Focus is the brainchild of Triple 7 Entertainment LLC’s, a PR firm, CEO Stacey Bethel (nee Williams), who serves as Editor in Chief of the Magazine. Creative Director, Victor E. Lewis is the CEO of VicRae, Inc. whose clients include Actor, Leon, Third World Band, Jadine – Soca Diva and more. Art & Content Director, Mikelah Rose has worked for JAMROCK Magazine, VP Records, TEMPO Networks and has her own blog, Style & Vibes. For more information, email info@triplethefocus.com.
CONTACT
Email: Info@triplethefocus.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US) | 876-475-5841 (JA)
Art & Content Director’s Note WHO RUNS THE WORLD? GIRLS! “We run tings, ting nuh run we,” a common expression so fitting for Women’s History Month. We are proud to salute fellow Sistrens making strides in their industry on their terms. Highlighting women making history is key for building a strong legacy of Caribbean women who are leading the next generation by example. I met our cover girl Lauren Dunn a few years ago at Reggae Sumfest. Her personality was just as infectious then as it is now. Lauren’s knack for mixing sass with sarcasm has made her one of the most entertaining personalities to watch. From her blog to her twitter rants and show Lauren O Lauren — she is a dose of entertainment with a real opinion and a take it or leave it attitude (think a saucier Chelsea Handler). I remember writing stories at ten years old, but at that same tender age Kristina Cardoza is already a published author — an amazing accomplishment many writers don’t receive until later in life. It just goes to show that with supportive parents the sky is the limit for our little women. Shazelle, Hailee Araya and DJ Blease, I got to know more about their musical endeavors with this issue; and they’re all ones to watch as they continue to rise on their own terms. Designer Arlene L. Martin’s Drenna Luna label is a modern twist on simplicity that is refined and refreshing. As women we have the innate ambition to make the impossible possible. Read more about that in our inspirational feature “Woman You are all That.” Until next time continue to dream big, claim what’s rightfully yours and help those coming behind you to continue the legacy of Herstory. We’re encouraging all of our fellow women to maintain Triple the Focus in all aspects of life!
Mikelah Rose
Your Art & Content Director
ArtDirector@TripleTheFocus.com
Issue 6 | March 2012 7
presents
spring 2012
At Ten Years Old She is a Published Author!
KRISTINA CARDOZA
By Stacey Bethel If you were five years old and your family relocated and you had to leave all of your friends behind, how would you cope? Most little girls or little boys would cry and be sad however Kristina Cardoza sought solace in her imagination and wrote a book. While this is not the typical reaction of a five year old, in meeting Kristina I learned quickly that she is anything but typical. At age five, Kristina’s Dad was accepted into an Air Force Commissioning Program to train to become a physicist. With this new opportunity, the family had to relocate to Arizona. Kristina was sad that she had to leave her grandmother and her friends. Before starting school in Arizona, she expressed her fears of meeting new friends and starting a new school so her Mom, Daniella, encouraged her to write a story about how she was feeling. With a computer and her Pink Easter Bunny as inspiration, Kristina created “Pinky Bunny’s First Day of Kindergarten.” However, the book was set aside when Kristina’s grandmother passed away. Prior to her grandmother’s passing, she suggested that Daniella try to get the book published. And thus the journey began. Replacing the illustrations and making minor ad-
justment, “Pinky Bunny’s First Day of Kindergarten” (available in bookstores nationwide) was published on September 26, 2011 and lovingly dedicated to her grandmother. While that is her only book currently available, Kristina is gearing up to release “A Tale of Two Wizards” which is being co-written by her brother Sean, “Pinky Bunny’s First Sleepover,” and “Pinky Bunny Travels the World.” Additionally, Kristina is a blogger. Her blog is geared toward reviews of books, games, movies and more. Ok she’s officially my mentor! Kristina is currently a fifth grader taking courses in middle school. She is a straight A student who enjoys reading, writing, drawing, playing the piano and video games. Her parents realized her gift when at 18 months old Kristina was reading simple children’s books. While writing is just one of the things in her life that has received a tremendous amount of recognition, Kristina also delights in things that a girl her age does. For example, she’s a girl scout, does mixed martial arts and hangs out with her friends. A bright, well-spoken young lady, she is creating a clear path to a very bright future. But with interests that exceed being an author, Kristina has already realized that she can be whatever she puts her mind to. Issue 6 | March 2012 9
At 5 years old you wrote your first book, “Pinky Bunny’s First Day of Kindergarten.” How did that come about? I wanted to express my feelings about starting kindergarten after moving to a new state. I told my parents, so my mom told me to write a story about how I felt. I used a stuffed pink bunny that my grandmother gave to me as themain character of my story. How does it feel to be a ten year old author? I feel happy that I’m a young author! It feels wonderful to have accomplished one of my goals! :) Do children at your school treat you any differently because you are a published author? No, not really.
or someone that helps people, or maybe a physicist like my dad. Having a career that allows me to travel would be great, too! The possibilities are endless! :) Outside of writing, what do you like to do? Drawing, reading, playing soccer, photography, graphic designing, mixed martial arts, girl scouting, playing video games, playing on the computer, designing clothes, shopping for clothes, making movies with Littlest Pet Shops, and hanging out with friends. What are some of your favorite cartoons? I don’t really watch a lot of cartoons but when I do, I watch shows like Phineas and Ferb. I prefer non-cartoon shows like The Wizards of Waverly Place, iCarly, and Jessie.
Does writing come naturally for you? Well, sometimes. With school, martial arts, girl scouting, and soccer, sometimes I don’t really have time to think about writing. But, sometimes I get new ideas while I’m doing those activities, playing, or sleeping.
You have other unpublished works. Any plans to release some/all of them? Yes. I will be releasing the second Pinky Bunny book as well as other books I’m currently working on. Also, my little brother Sean and I are planning on releasing a book we are writing together called “A Tale of Two Wizards.”
Who is your mentor? My mother is my mentor because she motivates me to get my school work, author work, girl scout tasks, and chores done. She also helps me with my goals.
What is your advice to other little girls like yourself who have big dreams? My advice to other little girls is to be positive, work hard, and never give up!
Who is your favorite author? My favorite authors are Liz Kessler and Jim Benton. Do you think being an author will be a career choice for you? Yes, one of my main careers. I am also thinking about being a fashion designer, a doctor
And lastly, what do you think of the Magazine? Would Pinky Bunny give it a passing grade? I like your magazine because it has a lot of fashion in it. It’s also really cool that you do interviews with famous people like Leon. I’m sure if Pinky was old enough, since she’s only 5, she would love it!! :)
MISS BLEASE Belize’s First Lady of Music!
time there she was involved in many activities and was a singer in the school’s band. She then enrolled in St. John’s Junior College in Belize City. While at St. John’s she got involved with The Belize Theater Company and acted in her first play written by Evan X Hyde “Weh Jon Jon Deh” and directed by his daughter, Rachel Hyde. Rachel was impressed with her performance in the play and approached Linda about working at a new TV station, “KREM TV,” that was only just being developed. In 2004 Evan “Mose” Hyde hired Linda Blease and she began working on and off screen for KREM Television. She did part-time jobs for KREM Radio during outside broadcasts and as news anchor at one point. By Shantell “Shanz” Hill The Jamaican proverb “small axe falls big tree” is all I need to describe Miss Blease. Better yet, I should use another popular term, which in my humble opinion would still do her very little justice in describing her, but here goes “she little but she tallawah.” Upon seeing this very petite lady, with the most amazing skin and metallic smile (now a signature as she is outfitted with braces), you would never guess the impact she would leave, but one thing is for sure an encounter with MissBlease is sure to leave just that an impact and a lasting one. I had the honor of a chance meeting a few years ago via a mutual friend at Big Yard Studios in Kingston, Jamaica and I must admit that initial energy and drive for music and entertainment left a positively lasting impression on me and as such, it’s a pleasure to share her spirit via this article. She represents Jamaican music and culture wherever she goes however she is as far from Jamaican. Linda Michelle Blease, born December 29, 1986, performs under the name Miss Blease, is a filmmaker, video editor, TV show producer, TV personality (KREM TV, host for hire by other stations), radio personality and radio DJ on KREM Radio. Can you say Jane of all trades and every day mastering them all. HER BELIZE STORY Miss Blease was born in Belize City, but grew up in Caye Caulker with her grandparents Glenda and Linton Blease. Her Grandmother owns a well-known restaurant in Caye Caulker called Glenda’s Restaurant and her Grandfather was a fisherman, who also had involvement in the daily running of the restaurant. Linda Blease was raised Catholic and her family was very involved in religion. It was in religion that she discovered her love for music at 6 years old. She began playing music at church and singing in the choir at age 8 until she was 16 years old at the Roman Catholic Church in Caye Caulker. She attended San Pedro High School in 1999 and graduated in 2003 with a high school diploma in Business. During her
BELIEVING IN BLEASE In 2009, Linda along with friends - Tweety Plunkett, Kenneth Grant, Coppershot Sound, DJ Pepsi, and many more - created a music video show on television in Belize that would change the face of music videos to have existed in Belize called Spotlight MVS (Music Video Show). After a brief hiatus, she returned to the Zinc Fence and this time they offered her not only her old job but also two radio slots called the Big Zinc Link on a Saturday night and Recovery Mondays. Big Zinc Link and Recovery Monday’s are very entertaining and high energy shows that takes you from old school to new school, Hip Hop to R&B and Reggae to Dancehall. You never know what can happen when Miss Blease is selecting. BLEASE IT OR NOT She never seems to quite slow down and if being a busy bee isn’t enough with all her achievements then adding the fact that MissBlease was the house deejay for a year at the renowned Traveler’s Liquor’s Barrel bar in Belize City, is just another box checked on her bucket list. She has also been featured on Women in Arts as a female selector for 2 years running, 2012 will be her third year featured this time as the official DJ. Being a DJ has opened up several avenues for her to showcase her skills such as fashion shows, exhibits and other events. Additionally, she currently holds the position as the house deejay at a Friday nightspot in Belize City, Tropicana Lounge for 2 years and proudly boasting the title of being the first female deejay to be featured on some of the major events in Belize. One such event is Belikin Beer Fest where she has been added to the ever growing list of female selectors 12 years + running. While on a short vacation in Jamaica, she had the opportunity to play in the newly renovated Quad -Top Floor. Though not the first female DJ to play at the successful series, she can proudly say that her showing was exceptional. Having played alongside all the major sounds in Belize and some major ones internationally, there is much more to be expected from Miss Blease in years to come. Issue 6 | March 2012 13
From Blogger to CEO
IS THE
LAURE
QUINTE By Stac
N DUN
SSENTI
ey Beth
el | Phot
AL MED
os: Rya
n Lue-C
N
IA DAR
larke
LING
barred format. But before she was this sweet and intelligent young lady, she was a little girl with big dreams of “something and everything.” “I never knew what I wanted to be. I just wanted to be heard and my mother allowed me to express myself in whatever way I wanted. I was never restricted on what to wear, what to read or eat. The only think she insisted on was that I go to the library. People always ask me what it is that I do and I always respond by saying ‘I’m gainfully unemployed.’ Well at least so it seemed but I am in the business of entertainment. I have created my own career and list myself as a ‘Television Socialite.’” In addition to being a “television socialite,” Lauren is also a self-professed relationship and life blogger. That blog was the foundation of what is now her TV show. A project that she mastermind and funded, she is now seeing the fruits of her labor. The show, which airs on Flow TV in Jamaica, is getting quite the buzz. Realizing that the sky is the limit, Lauren is forging full speed ahead with new goals in place for not only her show but for herself as a brand. Get to know more about, Lauren Dunn. Who is Lauren Dunn? Lauren Dunn is a loud mouth country girl who has burned her Barbie’s as a child and fell in love with Dr. Suess’ books because she was always looking for an alternative to reality and expectation. I would always pretend like I knew what I was talking about and people would believe me because I didn’t doubt the garbage I was saying and they didn’t doubt me either. LOL!
Want to know more about Lauren Dunn, just follow her on twitter (@laurenolauren). I did and for me she is a daily dose of laughter – no “if,” “ands” or “buts” about it! A straight shooter, she is reminiscent of Wendy Williams with that same sharp wit and “oh well” attitude. The similarity really is quite daunting come to think it - that unbridled honesty, the ability to make others laugh and the gusto to say what others think but afraid to express. Very “slapstick” if you will. While her comments might sting at times – mostly to those who are unfamiliar with her - Lauren’s free spirit is what appealed to me initially. On assumption, you don’t expect her to be so sweet but she genuinely is and very warm. She is not standoffish by any means and one cannot accuse her of being cold because with all that comedy she is very intelligent. There aren’t any topics that Lauren cannot talk about intelligibly and this makes her a media darling. No stranger to television, she has worked within that field for the past eight years as an on-air host and producer. Her business wherewithal landed her a contract as the face of Gabriella Couture and her recent project went from blog to TV in the form of her quasi talk show “The Lauren O Lauren Show.” Like her tweets, the show’s topics run the gamut from sex, politics, pop culture, gossip and fashion. A no holds
How does Lauren Dunn “the person” differ from Lauren O Lauren the “TV Personality?” Lauren Dunn the Person doesn’t really differ from Lauren O Lauren, I’ve been told that they’re two different persons but the only thing I think that separates Lauren Dunn from Lauren O Lauren is Lauren Dunn doesn’t like people, Lauren O Lauren is really the star I suppose. Do you consider yourself a brand? I do consider myself a brand, I’m not trying to be cocky or conceited either, I genuinely believe that I put myself out there for people to either accept me or reject me and that’s how I make my money just like all the other brands, but only like a company that sells soap I’m a person and unlike a bar of soap when my time runs out and they replace me I’m gonna cry myself to sleep every single night. Or hopefully by then I’ll be too rich to care. What makes your brand unique? I don’t say what I don’t mean but at the same time I never feel the need to tear down anyone. You went from blogger to having your own show “The Lauren O Lauren” show? Was that a natural progression? Or was it planned? Everything in my life has been an unplanned natural progression that I subconsciously planned out, I have a good judge of timing and I listen to the right people for example. I never read comments but I always take compliments. I’ve been lucky and one good thing leads to another.
What’s the premise of your show? The premise of my show is really my take on life matters mainly Sex, Boys and Fashion. I also do interviews with artist or interesting people with stories that make for good TV like a sister who is now probably married to her sister’s baby daddy stuff like that. There’s a local and international vibe to my show. It’s hard to explain I feel like the structure is really all in my head, but watch it and tell me what you think, Youtube - The Lauren O Lauren Show episode 1 What are some of the challenges that you face having your own show? The biggest challenge I’ve had to face with this show is people taking me seriously, everyone thought I was joking, it frustrated me, thus why I ended up funding season one from my pocket. I think everyone is waiting to see how long I can keep this up. I had a big problem with finding the right editor at the beginning but once I found one it has been amazing, everything is falling into place.
killers to overdose a celebrity, ear plugs (I can’t read in noise), blindfold so I can sleep, socks my toes get cold, makeup pouch, camera, iPad, a book conveniently titled “How to Leave Twitter” by Grace Dent, baby whips, my passport and my flat iron. Oh I could go on all night and if I look deep enough one of Santa’s reindeers will pop out. Lastly, anyone on twitter who follows you can expect a daily dose of laughter. How much of what you say is really what you think vs. you just goofing off? I’m a brutally honest person yes it has worked against me a lot but I mean most of what I say and when I’m oohing off its pretty obvious. The difference is sometimes I tweet scenarios that happen in my mind and sometimes I tweet scenarios that happen for real, people find them equally funny but they usually know how to separate the two. :)
How would you like to see the show grow? Oh Dear! Anything positive is growth to me, I just want it to be a success I want people to love it, I want it to become that break through show on Jamaican TV that held its own, I want everyone tuning in. You are the face of Gabriella’s Couture. How did that happen? Yes I am that’s one of the most exciting and flattering things I’ve ever done *Twirls*! I’ve always been told I take nice pictures and that I have an OK body but no one has ever wanted to use me for anything and just when I was beginning to think I wasn’t pretty and that I was too loud. I met Teri-Ann Cunningham who was opening another store Gabriella’s Couture and thought my personality would be perfect to be the face of it, which couldn’t be better because I love that store it’s one of my favorite places to get one of kind pieces that will last me a lifetime and not hurt my pocket. Do you consider yourself a fashionista? Gosh I think I’m too safe to be considered a Fashionista. My style has always been more sexy and chic, I would love to consider myself a fashionista but it wouldn’t be true. My favorite outfit is still a plain white tank top and tight skinny blue jeans, a nice watch and flowing black straight hair, *sigh* Yes I’m SAFE! Do you have a favorite designer? Yes I fell in love with Armani last year because his clothes fit me so well and I can find tons of stuff that fit my style and are timeless pieces and oh boy do I love Louis Vuitton. I’m trying to build a bigger collection he’s not every day though, lol!! What’s your everyday style? Painted on tight jeans, gold watch, very clean white tank top, flats and my black fringed hand bag, I love it so much I found it in a market in London. If I gave you US$5000 what would you buy? I’d buy a lot of weave, a ton of books, a nice handbag and a pair of Red Bottoms, look at that $5000 over just like that. What’s in your handbag? Honestly as I look in my bag there’s nothing but madness in there I’m flying tomorrow so I’ve got all this travel stuff, enough pain-
Issue 6 | March 2012 17
FROM CARIBBEAN FASHION WEEK TO VOGUE ITALIA
DRENNA LUNA HAS TAKEN THE FASHION WORLD BY STORM
DRENNA LUNA is the brainchild of Jamaican designer, Arlene L. Martin. Arlene has had a passion for design and sewing from as far back as she can remember. Her elegant designs are created to accentuate the beauty of a woman with a simple style that offers versatility. Largely self-taught, Arlene started the craft as a hobby in her late teens. Her keen eye for detail bloomed into something extraordinary and she later sought to improve her garment construction technique which gave way to regularly styling friends and family. Fueled by the response she received, DRENNA LUNA was born. Like her clothing line, the name bodies something sacred - Arlene named the line after her grandmothers.
Botswana Collection. This collection was viewed at CFW 2011 and is now available.
Issue 6 | March 2012 19
The inspiration for her pieces comes from many avenues for example the trimmings in a store, an accessory piece, random creative impulse at any hour of the night or day, or simply the fabric. Whatever incites the spark, the bottom line is the outcome. And Arlene wants her customers to feel beautiful because when they do they exude confidence and happiness. Currently a joint contributor to the increasingly popular Saturday Observer’s Rock the Cloth feature, she provides fashion tips and advice to the average woman who wants to look and feel good when she steps out. Additionally, she is a practising business consultant and has worked on projects for the National Trade and Investment Agency, Jamaica Trade and Invest that included being the National Consultant developing Jamaica’s National Export Strategy, as well as Kronos Investment Development. Arlene is a member of the Jamaica Fashion and Apparel Cluster and is a Managing Consultant and Board Member for the recently developed Caribbean Fashion Industry Forum (CAFIF), the region’s first fashion industry association. Recently, Arlene was handpicked among others to showcase her collection at London Fashion Week and was featured in Vogue Italia. She will also showcase her line at the 2012 Caribbean Fashion week in Kingston, Jamaica. For more information, visit DrennaLuna.com.
New Collection: 1975
Issue 6| March 2012 21
ETHIOPIAN/SWEDISH SINGER,
HAILEE ARAYA
SERVING UP A HEALTHY DOSE OF TALENT! by Stacey Bethel
Ethiopian/Swedish born Hailee Araya is a “Jill” of all trades. Not only is she a singer/songwriter, she is a multi-instrumentalist, an actress, a model, multilingual and has a red belt in Taekwondo. Though her talents vary, music sits at the very core of her being. “Music is a source of inspiration, strength and comfort. It’s such a wonderful journey when you hear a track and the entire song forms in your head and that rush is so addictive.” Her musical exposure began at an early age when she learned to play the piano. That skill has assisted her in the composition of many of her songs today. Soon after learning to play the piano, Hailee began guitar lessons and then the drums. Learning to play those instruments fueled her love of music. Hailee has performed in several festivals including the Uppsala Reggae Festival in 2009. Her first single entitled “Rid You of My Love” written by Hailee and produced by Paul Kastick was released in December 2011. What sets her apart from other female artists? “I am not stuck in one theme. I take inspiration from love as well as sociopolitical issues. I refuse to be labeled as one or the other. I write my own lyrics and do my own song arrangements. I am influenced by my Ethiopian culture and well as my western upbringing in Sweden so I suppose I bring a new flavor of music.” Meet the well-rounded songstress, Hailee Araya. Tell our readers a little bit about yourself? My name is actually Deborah Araya I was born in Lund Sweden to Ethiopian parents .My grandfather Haile Zerefa who passed away the same year I was born,I have been told such amazing stories about by my mother what a kind and loving father he was,so I decided to take the artist name Hailee to honour him in everything I do. As a singer/songwriter, what inspires you? Love, my family, the human spirit and the goodness in us all despite the harsh world we live in today What singers are your musical inspirations? Sade, Aster Awoke, Miriam Makeba, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Youssu Ndur and Salif Keita Describe your sound and the type of music that you do? My music is a mix of Reggae, Rock and Ethio Jazz mix You play several instruments, can you share which ones and do you have a favorite that you play? I play the Piano which I learned at 6 years old. I am now studying the Guitar and drums. I love them all but the Guitar is becoming my favorite. Outside of music, I believe you also do some acting and modeling. How did that get started? Yes I studied both theatre and piano when I was little and went to college at the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles. I played the lead in the short film “Pillow Talk” and also played “Hazel” in Fox Broadcastings “Dollplay.” I have written several scripts including “Awa” which we are in the process of ne-
gotiating production. I did some modeling just to make ends meet but I don’t intend to pursue that too much. What do you like to do in your spare time? My project “Abel,” watching movies, a lot of my free time is also claimed by my mother who calls me no less than 10 times a day but I enjoy that. I work out a lot as well - I have a red belter in Taekwondo and am trying to go all the way to get my black belt. Tell me about your Charity, Project Abel? Yes it was actually started by my grandmother Abeba Haileyesus who passed away in 2001. She would take us out on tours after making food at home and just distribute to the homeless. When she passed away in 2001 my little brother Abel and I discussed that the best way to honor her memory. So we decided to start the charity which I decided should be called project Abel after my bother. We meet as often as we can, prepare meals and distribute. We do not accept money! Everyone who participates will do their own shopping and cook and it is so much more a blessing to us than the people we help. Do you have a pet peeve? Yes I have three, greed, gossip and lack of empathy for fellow human-being. What book(s) are you currently reading? I just read “The Groundings With My Brothers” by Walter A. Rodney. I am reading simultaneously “Message From Down Under” by Marlo Morgan (I highly recommend it). It is a story about a middle aged white Australian woman’s journey with the Native Aboriginals, a true testament to their greatness and the human spirit. I am also reading “Things Fall Apart” by Nigerian Author Chinua Achebe. What is the one thing that you cannot live without on a day to day basis? My phone! It is my lifeline as I talk to my family in Sweden every day and I can’t live without that What are you currently working on? I am working on my upcoming album “My Silence.” It will have more or less the same theme as “Rid You of My Love.” I am working with Jamaican producers Paul Kastick, John Marcus, South African producer Mambo Faceless and many more. One song on that album is called “Diaspora Blues.” My mother and I wrote the lyrics together and so it means a lot to me. It is my tribute and expression of love for Africa. There will also be some amazing collaborations with rock legend Rod Jackson of Slash’s Snakepit March is Women’s History Month, what public female figure has inspired you and why? Derartu Tulu an Ethiopian Athlete who at the age of 20 was the first African woman to win an Olympic gold medal. An inspiration to so many young Ethiopians and Africans as a whole including myself and Leymah Gbowee who initiated the non-violent protest mobilizing the women in their country Liberia. The movement was called “Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace” and had a key role in bringing about peace. She is a truly remarkable woman there is a documentary called “Pray the Devil Back to Hell” which I recommend very warmly about how these women at the risk to their own lives trough their peaceful protests forced the government into peace talks. If you were offered a huge acting role and a record deal at the same time but told you could not do both, which would you chose and why? Definitely record deal - music is my first love.
From Trinidad to Australia, Meet the Fun & Fearless Songstress
SHAZELLE! By Jody-Ann Williams Caribbean beauty, Shazelle, knows the meaning of “work hard now, so you can play hard later.” Shazelle’s singing career started in Trinidad where she sang and wrote songs locally. After completing her Marketing Management degree, she was discovered by Music Executive, Ivan Berry of Tango/IB Entertainment/Sony BMG/OLE/Beat Factory. By that time, she was more than ready to make her dream of becoming a singer a reality. The Trini star was dubbed the new face of Pop after working with some of the most established individuals in the industry and receiving over 25,000 hits on her first single “If We Fell In Love.” Shazelle has traveled extensively, opening and sharing stages with major international acts such as Pop/R&B artist Massari and Andrea Balan. Her latest single, “State of Emergency” featuring Beenie Man has been receiving positive feedback from both her fans and peers. Not only is Shazelle hard working, she’s also very passionate about helping children and the less fortunate. She adds, “I want to be more than an entertainer. I want to leave my own mark on the world and make a real difference in people’s lives.” Meet Trinidadian pop artist, Shazelle. What was it like growing up in Trinidad as young star? My entry in the music industry only happened in the last five years and it has been a slow but steady climb. It has been challenging being a pop artiste in Trinidad but a lot has changed over the last year. My local fans are very supportive and inspiring to me. How did you balance school and traveling? I had already completed my BA in Marketing Management and was working when I got the opportunity to make my dreams of being a singer a reality. At first, I was working full time and flying out on weekends to work with songwriters and record songs. My first two videos, “ Elevator” and “Pick me Up” were shot like that. Though it was tough at first, I learned a lot from that time in my life. State of Emergency featuring Beenie Man has a nice flow, what was it like working with him? I’ve always been a huge fan of Beenie Man so I was most excited to work with him. He is very cool and really funny. I recently did a photo shoot with him and got to know him a little bit better. He is always singing and he says whatever he is thinking. I worked with him on the remix of my single “I Need Love” three years ago and recently on my latest single “State of Emergency.” Other than your fans, who are your biggest supporters? My family and closest friends are my biggest supporters. They know and have shared my dream before it all became a reality and they are just as passionate as I am about my career and everything pertaining to it. Do you have any favorite song(s) that you’ve recorded? My favorite song recorded is “State of Emergency.” I love it because I got the idea for it based on the limited state of emergency that was happening in Trinidad and also because it has more of a Caribbean vibe to it than my other songs. I had a really fun time writing that song with Mark Cyrus and Candy Golster from St. Vincent so it was just good vibes all around. What are your must have items when going on the road? I do have a list of items that I take with me when I travel. They include my laptop, my special socks so my feet are always warm, black and herbal tea, red lipstick,
sunglasses, a pair of heels and my Bible. You’re a fashionista, who are your favorite designers? I honestly don’t have favorite designers at the moment. There are lots of non-designer pieces that I go crazy for. Don’t get me wrong I am all for Gucci, Channel and Prada but the real importance lies not in which designer things are from but about how they fit me and if it’s my personal style and preference. Do you see yourself as a role model for young girls? Yes I do! I am dedicated to fulfilling my dreams and purpose in life, working hard to be the best I can be and would like to help other people to be the best they can be. Those are things in which young girls can be look up to me for. Are you treated any differently by friends/peers since you’ve been in the industry? My closest friends do not treat me any differently and I don’t expect them to do so. We support and fully encourage each other to go hard because we only want happiness and success for each other. There are some people who never acknowledged me before who suddenly act like my long lost best friends. Acquaintances reach out to congratulate me and most of them are genuinely excited and surprised by all that’s going on and want to know more. Then there are people who didn’t like me before and would do anything to make my life difficult so they can feel good about themselves. In light of Women’s History month, who are some of the women you admire or emulate? There are a lot of women that I admire in different fields and for different reasons. My mother is one of the most generous people I know with so many great qualities. However, the woman who I have the most admiration and respect for is Pam Ramlal. She is like my mother, sister, best friend and hairdresser all rolled into one. Her humility, selflessness, love for her family, determination to overcome all things and ever increasing ambition inspire me continuously. We’ve been friends for fifteen years and she has been with me in my best and worst moments. She has definitely contributed to who I am today.
Issue 6 | March 2012 27
Designer: Chadwick Bell
Photo Credit: Roland Hyde Phototograph
Designer: Richard Chai
Designer: Michael Korsl
MERCEDESBENZ FASHION WEEK
Designer: Vera Wang
Designer: Tadashi Shoji
NEW YORK CITY’S
Issue 6| March 2012 29
Triple The Focus Launch Party in Jamaica Photo Credit: Di Rawtid Yute
Issue 6| March 2012 31
WOMEN YOU ARE ALL THAT By Rev. Dr. M. Frances Manning-Fontaine
Ain’t I a Black Woman Who has struggled O these many years Kept my family from starving Scrubbed the man’s floor Nursed his babies, (his pickney) ‘cause His ol’ lady wouldn’t/couldn’t Ain’t I a Black Woman So well-endowed multitudes drool With envy as I strut my stuff Painters/sculptors rush to duplicate me Ain’t I a Black Woman Who performs magic on them collards/red riceFried chicken/sweet potato pies/chitlins/pig feet (ackee ‘n’ codfish, oxtails ‘n’ stew peas with spinners Bammy ‘n’ callaloo with salted pigs ears) Leaving an indelible mark on the taste buds Ain’t I a Black Woman Getting a special tingle hearing the voice of my loved one Longing to melt in his arms/become one invisible God He alone know I’m there Ain’t I a Black Woman
These lines are from a small volume of poetry from the pen of a Black woman-poet Shirley E. Riley, entitled On the Real side (embellished with West Indianisms by me), depict her idea of what it has been like being a woman of color. First off, in the African American culture there has been the long standing notion of the female head of the household who has kept her family from starving. If census data is correct, since 1960 nearly 25% of all Black families in the United States are headed by a woman. Such misleading terms coming out of this data like “unstable, inadequate, broken home and ineffective” are often used to describe these Black female headed families. One very dominant view of Black women family heads is that nearly 25% of Black women are divorced or separated; that 35% of all Black children live in broken homes. Some view this model as having come from slavery where under this system the mother remained the important figure in the family. Given that our historical roots, poverty and migration has acted to maintain this old slave pattern of a woman centered family. Desperate poverty in the past has disturbed healthy family life through dilapidated housing, crowded living conditions, restricted recreational facilities and direct contact with the most corrupting elements of the urban disorganization. When poorly educated Black men have found it more difficult to secure employment than Black women, it has been difficult for the family to follow the typical American pattern that is a stable unit
with the husband providing a steady income for his family. The woman has had to assume a role of only provider for her family. Hence this notion that women are domineering heads of households corrupting society with this unhelpful domestic model. Truth be told, the current sitting President of the United States of America was raised by a single mother! Kudos to single moms who made it through unfortunate circumstances! Sisters not only have we been faced with the daunting task of rearing children by ourselves, we have had to cope with struggling identity problems that have thrown many of us into crisis. If the first measure of a child’s worth is made by her mother and if the mother feels herself to be a creature of little worth, this daughter represents her scorned self and the child can only be loved in a limited sphere and never be the flawless child because she is inevitably linked to her depreciated mother, lacking, deficient and flawed in some way. This is the view we’ve been handed about Black women. Unfortunately, those who do the research do not have the experience of being Black and female. Unless one is Black and female, it’s impossible to do enough valid research to have enough sophisticated statistics to give a fair view of the dilemma of Black women in a white male centered society. Unless one has experienced the joys and richness of living in the African American/Caribbean community, standing on the outside looking in with an I-pad gives a hopelessly inadequate view of what it’s really like. It’s like standing on the outside of your body trying to describe what your organs are doing on the inside. It’s time for a new view of Black women to emerge, one that allows for the possibility of self esteem and pride. Blacks do not necessarily measure themselves against whites, nor do Black women measure themselves against white women. The female head of the Black family may just be a source of strength and pride for the Black family that comes with its own esteem! “Black woman so well endowed multitudes drool with envy as I strut my stuff..painters, sculptors rush to duplicate me.” Admittedly many of my sisters are well sculpted now with the Jennifer Hudson’s and the Housewives pushing “thin is in”; and lip implants… but here is one who will never make the Victoria’s Secret catalog unless they have a section called “before and after” and they place me in the before section. Besides, I hear now that spouting a badonkadonk is more healthy than having fat around the stomach so I say go ahead “Thick Madame”…fight diabetes and cholesterol with the fat in the back. You are all that!!! Anyhow my grandma told me a dog doesn’t even want a bone.
one forgot they were there. Go ahead laugh; but I can put a mean dent in any plate that you set in front of me as long as someone else cooked it like my friend and sister in Christ, Janet. Ain’t I a Black woman getting a special tingle hearing the voice of my loved one longing to melt In his arms… become one …invisible. GOD He alone knows I’m there. More than needing the love of that special somebody we need the love of the one who alone knows where we are at all times. One thing that women, whether in United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa etc., have in common is a sense of the transcendent. Over our head, we hear music in the air, there must be a God somewhere. Keep me near you Lord! Here it is, let’s be strong, single or married, holding on to our families, holding on to our hips, holding on to our lips; but most of all don’t let go your faith. In the words of one of our ancestors, I’ve seen the lightning flashing, I’ve heard the thunder roll, I’ve felt sin breakers dashing trying to conquer my soul; but I heard the voice of my Savior saying women fight on, keep on fighting, fighting for your dignity, fighting for the faith. Don’t let nobody turn you “rung,” cuz woman you are all that!!
Another myth is that we can all cook. Now maybe some sisters can do all that the poet says in her book leaving indelible prints on the taste buds but let me drop something on you that is going to set you free. Some of us can only make reservations. Case in point, I just threw out a huge pan of candied sweets last month from New Year’s Eve that I thought were the bomb. They were so delicious they ended up in the bottom of the fridge way in the back where every Issue 6| March 2012 32