Calabash Issue 10

Calabash UK £3.00

US$ £7.00

Sierra Leone Le 15000

issue nine

Magazine

www.calabashmagazine.biz

Will a New Sierra Leone emerge after November 2012?

The Wedding of the Century

ALONZO • Dairy of Sierra Leone Politic 2012 • Calabash showcase Nigeria birthday bash • First Sierra Leonean to graduate at university of Keele • Why are you still single?

welcome

W

elcome to the long awaited issue of the Calabash Magazine. As it is commonly stated, good things come to those who wait patiently. And indeed this issue of the Calabash magazine is a bumper packed full of goodies, brain enriching articles and photos that will make you jealous and envious to no bounds. If you are not the jealous kind, the photos will make you wish they were of you.

Oh boy! Whilst I was putting the magazine together, in my mind’s eye I could see a vision of me packing my luggage to travel to somewhere I have never been before. And in my dream world I heard a voice telling me what I needed to pack into my suitcase. This issue is packed with motivated interviews from people who you will like to emulate or take as your mentor; Interviews with people who were around when Sierra Leone was called the Athens of West Africa. Read more in the “champion page” about Dr Ousman Abdulai, the first Sierra Leonean or Black African in the University of Keele and read about his opinions on good governance and education in the motherland.

My vision continues with clarity and I can hear a still small voice continuing to speak what else needs to be packed into this aweinspiring vision-released issue, so you will read about one of our many hardworking Sierra Leoneans in the United Kingdom, who is contributing to the development and cohesion of ex pupils association, a fine gentleman, a practicing barrister in the United Kingdom, Ibrahim, Dubumya.

Read more in our Champion Pages.

My vision has decreed that this package must include an exclusive interview done with a business guru, who loves the motherland so much that he left his own motherland in Lebanon to develop the land that we all love our Sierra Leone. Read in our “business page” about Adonis Aboud, founder of Pinkin Business and DSTV. As we all know when you are travelling especially to a land you have never been to before, you make sure all essentials are crammed into your suitcase, but in this case not the I-phone or the I-pad, but the photos or images that we all love sharing.

Inside this issue of Calabash, there are lots of weddings: everybody wanting to get hooked! Of course our “celebration pages” are the most glamorous, stylish and flamboyant section of the beloved Calabash which gives you some outstanding love stories. Do you know, some quarters are saying there is no more love, and others are trying to break the law of marriages? As it is biblically written, Marriages are between a man and a woman, is it then a little wonder that the world is being thrown into so much turmoil, strife end economical upheaval?

Beware, we should not play God or meddle with Mother Nature or what has been ordained from time immemorial. Calabash brings some stark evidence of love and to hold till death do us part. Read more about why Nigerian men are gunning for Sierra Leonean ladies. Is it because they know how to cook or what?

But my vision also reveals that Sierra Leonean men are also gunning for Nigerian ladies. For proof of this keep in touch with Calabash for one of its own

will soon wed a Nigerian damsel.

Wow! I am overwhelmed and flabbergasted by what this voice is telling me to pack for my intended journey into the unknowns. Hold it; let me explain further before some of you start thinking otherwise.

You know, when you are travelling you don’t want to forget the shampoos, toothbrush or shaving gel; the things that make your journey interesting, relaxing and comfortable. Calabash is the only showcase magazine in Sierra Leone promoting and rebranding our people and the land; therefore in this issue we bring to you the upcoming Sierra Leonean Celebrities and stars, and in Calabash’s fashion, style and music pages you will read about Sierra Leone Fans, our exclusive interview with Miss Africa USA, beautiful Sierra Leonean “Titi” upcoming musical and model idol Soniesha and more and more.

Thank you for buying a copy of the calabash magazine, send us your letter and your thoughts on prominent or unsung Sierra Leoneans. Tell us what you like or dislike about calabash.

By the way it is coming to Easter and most JC (Sierra Leonean in the Diaspora) are returning home. Don’t forget to add a copy of The Calabash magazine to your luggage essentials.

Email me on: bankolejones@calabashmagazine.biz

nes o J e l o k n Ba Chairman and Editor in Chief

The Calabash Magazine The Calabash Magazine, the only Sierra Leonean showcase magazine., two time winner of the best written media Award; three times nominee for the best print media in the Excellency Awards, Nominee for the best print media@ All Work of Life Awards (united Kingdom) at Sierra Leone at 50.

You can get your copy of the Calabash Magazine from the following stores in the United Kingdom/Sierra Leone and United State of America: Jaffa Food and Cosmetic, Peckham Kadmos Store, East Street and Peckham

Sierra Leone Market, Brixton Mother Nature, Barking Road Robert Clare Shipping, Bermondsey, London Sierra Leone Duty Free store, Lungi Freetown, Sierra Leone Choithram Supermarket @Wilkinson Road Total Garages in Freetown Sierra Leone Post Office Dover Court@ Maryland USA Online purchase @ SaLone Truefan, @ Amazon and @ calabashbusiness website

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 1

Calabash Contents

Calabash MagazineŠ Calabash Social Enterprise Services Ltd 10 Warple Mews, Off Warple Way, Acton, London W3 0RF

Business

Faiths

Daisy Bona Consulting Editor

6 8 9 11

44 Christ Pentecostal Church 48 Champion 48 Rebecca -Africa Gospel award

Raymond Akabi Davis Acting Editor

Culture

Bankole Jones Chairman and Editor in Chief

Patrick Coker Operation Director Leslie Ganda Business Development Director (Global) Ahmed Billy Sesay Marketing Director (Global)

Hannah Fullah Editor (Sierra Leone) Edmond Clifford Jones Operation Director (Sierra Leone) Ajara Bomah Correspondent (Sierra Leone) Dunstana Davies company Secretary(Global) Linda Kamara Administrator General (Global) Photograph by Calabash Photo shop Contact: photo@calabashmagazine.biz Contributing Photographers Tim Churchill Joseph Pessima Alhaji Sesay USA contact: 2935 Rotterdam Loop, Woodbridge VA, 22191 Email: mkmusa@calabashmagazine.biz Website: www.calabashbusiness.co.uk Email: bankolejones@calabashmagazine.biz Telephone: 0750 807 0272 All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part without the publishers permission is strictly prohibited. You can also order on line by going to home page www.Calabashbusiness.co.uk

2 | Calabash Magazine | issue nine

The fear of Sierra Leonean

Dr Adonis Abboud Reflection on New Sierra Leone

winner

49 Kadi Sillah Disability Foundation 50 Fatmoutou Crowned as

16 St Joseph Convent Ex-pupils @25 52 20 Sierra Leone Major Milestone 55 22 Meet Ibrahim Dumbuya – President of Ex-Pupils Association of St Edwards

Miss Nubian

Voice of Gashom Ward Melquosh Mission Foundation

Bites

25 Dr Ousman Abdulai Conteh-

56 Seven reason why you are single

28

58 60 61

First African to graduate with Doctorate @University of Keele

Mohamed K Musa Executive Managing Director (USA) Davelyn Thompson Communication Director(UK)

Lollypop couture

Ex-pupils Association Nostalgic

Fashion/Style

31 Meet Isha Kabba-Miss Sierra Leone USA

Is money your master AK Films

Shower of snow Tribute

Celebration

Sarah Wullah and Ibrahim Dabo 33 Upcoming Sierra Leone Celebrity 63 67 Miss Nubian Foundation 35 Swank Tips 69 Happy Birthday Kikelomo 74 Truly God work here Flash 78 And they joined in the 36 Francess Kabia double Celebration

37 This Joyous Occasion 39 Focus &AWOL 40 Happy Anniversary Patrick 41 Health 41 African men Health 42 Diary 42 Tutu balloon Valentine Interviews

celebration-

80 Calabash Meet Alimamy and Wife

84 88

Is my Birthday- Mary What God has put together

Music

92 Put Sierra Leone music on the map by support our star

My wedding in Freetown Abego tell Calabash about his wedding x pupils Association E of Albert Academy

International

96 Martin Lurther King 97 Meeting Men at the Africa Centre 99 Perfect Plan 100 Tribe Wanted

Calabash Letters Dear Calabash, nversation with article titled ‘ a co and was Thank you for the was very interesting ce pie e Th a. rn Fo Aminatta res about e articles and pictu th om fr ay aw k ea e writing a nice br case. Please continu ow sh u yo at th s g to read. wedding it is always refreshin e us ca be is th e lik pieces

Dear Calabash, Thank you for show casing the great thing s that are happening in town . I really liked the pie ce on Family Kingdom along Lumley Beach (issu e 7).

In the past, myself and others, have felt that Calabash often write s and shows too mu ch of what is happening in England and America . Even though people in Si erra Leone like to rea d about such things, we als o want to read abou t the wonderful things ha ppening in Sierra Leon e.

Thank you for writi ng Family Kingdom an d also African Minerals and please continue.

Mabinty, Freetown

Samantha, London Response to letter - Issue 7. Matthew, Cardiff; to see more articles about returnees to SL.

Response to letter – Issue 7 Yinka; letter about Calabash magazine providing an oasis of fun.

Dear Matthew, Thank you for your request to read more about returnees living and working in Sierra Leone. You’re in luck! In this issue, Calabash features the amazing Vickie Remoe, Sierra Leone’s own Oprah Winphrey. Calabash has managed to interview the 27 year old and asked her about her work in Sierra Leone, her highs and lows of living in town, what she is doing now and probe for more juicy, juicy gossip! I hope you enjoy reading the interview and gain inspiration to make the move.

Dear Yinka, Thank you for your compliment. We at Calabash realise that many of our readers often want a break away from the serious issues occurring in Sierra Leone. We try to produce a magazine that doesn’t ignore the realities within Sierra Leone, yet we also realise that there is a lot of fun and greatness in the land that we love. We at Calabash will continue to showcase the good, the bad and the ugly; but hopefully more of the good emerging from within Sierra Leone!

A. Building Consultant and Property Maintenance For Sierra Leone Freetown

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CJ Electrical and Electronics Ltd CJ Electrial and Electronics Ltd are located in Kissy, Freetown, Sierra Leone. They provide a wide range of light industrial, commercial and domestic electrical services & Electronics throughout Sierra Leone.

Contact for reasonable quotation

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FREE ESTIMATES No job too big or too small London (m) 079 3016 2245 (h) 020 8289 3663

Freetown (m) 07677 5176

Email: george.kabia@hotmail.co.uk

19 Lunar street kissy Freetown Tel: 076 836644 Mob: 033 859188 / 088 773569 cliffedmond@yahoo.com.au cjelectrical19@yahoo.com issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 3

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4 | Calabash Magazine | issue nine

editorial

TIME OF RECKONING!!!

Sierra Leone is indeed a model state hailed all over the globe as a fast growing country which has emerged from war and dictatorship. And considering the period of such transformation from a state of complete collapse when the country was almost reduced to ashes by an atrocious war, deserves the commendations and accolades of statesmen and international organizations.

The President, Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, is saluted for doing a good job and for his tolerant and pragmatic approach in the interest of peace and unity; but perhaps even more deserving of such accolades and high commendations are the long suffering and extremely tolerant people of the country, especially the women and children who bore the brunt of the rampaging hordes of Sankoh and his ilk. Who can forget the women raped, the limbs hacked off, properties looted and burnt, or the innocent bystanders who had nothing to do with any political skulldogery callously killed.

Some people feel that the war should now be a thing of the past. But those who actually witnessed the brutalities and evil machinations of certain people, some of whom are today serving in lucrative and influential positions with human blood on their hands while others who have washed themselves white (or think they have),now have the audacity of asking the people to make them leaders of a country which they had actively contributed to bringing to its knees not so long ago.

The average Sierra Leonean can forgive but they don’t easily forget. The blood of the many

men, women and children killed innocently is still crying, if not for revenge, at least for justice. Let us hope that this will come one day.

This magazine is not a political vanguard but a voice of the people in the Diaspora and the homeland. The people of the county have their weapons which are mightier than hundreds of corrupt politicians put together.

It is to be hoped that this time around, they will make sure they put the right people in parliament, who in turn will be the referees for those who will be operating the state machinery.

The present government’s trial period is gradually coming to an end and its performance is under strict scrutiny. As referees are prone to do, red cards should soon be flashing in the direction of certain members of Dr Ernest Bai Koroma’s team. And if he really wants to feature prominently in the annals of the history Sierra Leone, then a sizeable chunk of his current team should literally be seeing red.

Truly the country has scored more pluses than minuses under Dr Ernest Bai Koroma’s watch, but sources in the country and abroad have revealed that if the President continued to surround himself with some of these sycophantic elements, better days for him will be a thing of the past.

It is undeniable that there are those whose desire for political power is not in the interest of the country but simply to amass wealth and political office is a sure and certain route to wealth (of course, at the expense of the suffering masses). Some have fixed targets in

terms of the number of houses, cars, etc they should have acquired after just three years in office!

Has the President’s constant call for ‘Attitudunial Change’ meant anything to them.

The Civil Society and OIGs may mean well; but it is certain that you cannot teach old dogs new tricks.

The time of reckoning,the ELECTIONS is not too far away and if the people are given a free hand to choose, the wheat will be separated from the chaff.

Calabash’s advice to the people of Sierra Leone is for all eligible voters to register, come election day go out and vote for the right people to run the state machinery effectively.

Family Kingdom Resort Right across the Atlantic with its golden sands and magnificent water P.O. Box 94 Aberdeen Freetown, Sierra Leone Mob: 232 78-777949/30-202770 Tel: 23222231136 E-mail: fkingdomresort@yahoo.com www.familykingdomresort.com

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 5

Lollypop Coutures

business

6 | Calabash Magazine | issue nine

C

oming from North London where it is something of a rarity to hear Krio being spoken in the street or in a bus, one gets the distinct impression, when in parts of South London, particularly in the Peckham area, of almost being back in Freetown say, in the Krootown Road area during its heyday. And so, armed with one of these Transport for London maps I’d printed off my computer, I made it as far as the Peckham Rye Station but once out of the Station, my map reading skills failed me and I had to resort to asking passers-by before finally getting directions from two passers-by in perfect Krio.

I got there at last and was greeted very politely by this young gentleman sitting looking very calm and self assured. The pale blue lights, the surrounding mirrors and the under-floor lighting, all contributed towards conveying an impression of quality and good taste. The shop stands out like a beacon among a miscellany of drab shop fronts. Yours truly was impressed and duly congratulated him for the lovely arrangement and attractive display. My first question therefore was for an explanation of the trade name ‘Lollypop Coutures’.

L

Calabash: So, what’s your background ?

Mr Lolly: I was born in the Nongowa district of Kenema which is in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone. That is where I received my earlier schooling before later furthering my education in the United Kingdom.

Lollypop Mr Lolly: This is my business name which has been established for the past ten years and goes back to the time I was a promoter of artists and their music. I really started in the record production business under the ‘Lollypop label. The name therefore covers the artistic /showbiz, as well as the clothing or fashion angle.

Calabash: How do you explain your interest in fashion designing?

Mr Lolly: Well, this started off with me working as Manager of Pardis, where I was engaged in promoting showbiz events in Sierra Leone since 2000. This was at the Pardis International Beach Bar at Aberdeen Road whose owner, Mr Paddy Warren, had passed away leaving the business in the hands of Mr Alexis Heroe who was like an adopted son. My inspiration came from meeting various showbiz people while serving as host presenter and producer of beauty pageant shows. I also tried to get our local tailors and designers involved in such shows by giving them contracts and sponsorships to enable them to come in and display their creations and showcase their abilities. This also enabled me to spot local talents in the fields of showbiz and fashion.

Lollypo Calabash: This leads me to my next question which is; what do you think you have brought to the field of fashion designing; how are your creations different from all other existing ones?

Mr Lolly: That’s a very interesting question.

My innovation was to design my all my own stuff using mineral stones: crystal, ruby, sapphire...these are the things I work with.

Sorry, that for security reasons I can’t bring out samples to show you...but a showbiz

person, a footballer or anybody ,for that matter, who has to attend a special event can come in or put in an order to design his clothing with the stones and design of his choice. Whatever the event or wherever they are, anyone who is wearing my designs

will be the most eye-catching and certainly the hottest personality in that place. I also use industrial grade diamonds which are relatively cheap. I send them to my factory in the Middle East where they can be woven into beautiful, eye-catching designs. I love fashion, but my real passion is in the use of these stones. I also do hats, footwear, belts...(here my attention was drawn to some lovely samples of the said items on display, and they were truly eye-catching).

Calabash: Would you agree that you are only pandering to the bling-bling culture?

Mr Lolly: Of course, it’s all about bling! In fact, I specialise in bling artwork.

Calabash: I know this is a very competitive market; how do you manage to keep up with it?

Mr Lolly: Well, I cater for a very broad clientele which includes footballers, artistes from Africa, the Caribbean and even the general public. My prices are very competitive so a lot of people are attracted by what I have to offer.

At this juncture, in walked a smartly dressed young lady who imperiously tapped a well manicured multi-coloured nail over a pair of shades with the question, ‘how much?’

Mr Lolly: Seventy five...

At which point yours truly quietly took leave of Mr Lolly.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 7

business

Could foreign investment in Africa cause a re-emergence of the term ‘second-class citizen’?

Story Davelyn Thompson

S

andy beaches, and fertile land, are both factors which caused President Koroma to encourage and welcome foreign investors into Sierra Leone to help the country regain its former glory as one of the most prosperous nations in West Africa. In President Koroma’s own words, “Sierra Leone is in a very terrible situation and is now poised for investment.

The investment climate has now increased and improved substantially, and there is now a determination on the part of the government to move the country forward”.

Forward thinking and good management is needed in a country, where diamond, gold, iron, bauxite, as well as forests, abundant fresh water, fruit and fish grace the land. In 2006, (the World Fact Book noted) a total of over $216 million came from exporting of diamonds, bauxite, coffee, cocoa and fish, in partnership with countries such as Belgium, Germany, the U.S and India. With the abundance of natural resources embedded in the land, it is evident that Sierra Leone has continued, and will continue to be a pot brimming over with wealth and possibility.

Little wonder then, as the country continues to evolve after years of brutal civil war,

8 | Calabash Magazine | issue nine

Lumney Beach foreign businessmen have seen the wealth of the country and have begun investing.

The Chinese company, Henan Guoji is proposing to invest $270million into Lumley Beach for the construction of hotels, conference centres, sport facilities, and a casino and nightclub – some have already been built. The director of Sierra Leone’s National Tourist Board commented on the Chinese investor’s recognition of the vast opportunities within the country. Due to this, Chinese investors are rapidly running closely behind the many Lebanese investors who reside in the country and own some of the most exclusive jewellery stores, supermarkets and other businesses. Hotels such as the Chinese owned Bintumani are decorated with large bedrooms, exquisite function rooms and top security. The establishment provides Sierra Leone with a 5 star hotel which adds major profit to the Sierra Leone economy. The Chinese and Indian residents import food rations, sanitation, pharmaceutical items, building materials, and used clothing. The investment will increase the economy, which has slowly declined in recent years, with $216million coming from exports, in comparison to a staggering $560million profit from

importing (from Germany, Cote d’ Ivoire, U.K., U.S, China). The sad reality is that, most of this profit goes towards financing the investor’s standard of living but not the national citizens of Sierra Leone.

To view foreign investment, in Sierra Leone, as harmful would be an absurd comment to make, because most investments have catapulted Sierra Leone into a position, where it is viewed as a popular holiday destination. Companies such as Splash, is Sierra Leone’s first mobile payment system which has allowed citizens to send money to other mobile users through their mobile phones. This new system does not exclude particular members of society because individuals do not have to have a bank account to register

Goldmine Sierra Leone

business

Mine construction underway and registration is free. Companies such as Splash are taking Sierra Leone into the technological era whilst also providing jobs for locals.

Also, it seems that more investment and construction will mean more jobs and a better quality of life for the 70.2 % of locals who live below the poverty line, with a life expectancy of only 50 years, and a shocking NA% registered as unemployed (as according to the World Fact Book).

However, as effective as foreign investment into the country may be: what of the indigenous people of Sierra Leone?

There is a fear shared by some Sierra Leoneans, that they could soon be regarded as second-class citizens in their own country, because of their lack of finances which does not enable them to invest. Already residents have stated, “We have been told that we must move out of our homes to make way for some developments, if this happens we will be out on the streets”. It has also been suggested that with the reconstruction of Sierra Leone, Chinese businesses may bring their own workers into the country rather than using domestic labour- as they have already done in Algeria and Sudan. This then may force Sierra Leonean’s to sit back and watch as developments are being made, but yet, the profits are not being invested in poorer regions or as wages for locals. One could also question whether Sierra Leone’s reflex action, of prostrating its hand out towards the West, in the hope of salvation, will later cause modern-day slavery and colonisation to erupt again. Residents have already complained about the treatment that is experienced by some, who say that investors speak and treat them rudely. Does this mean that just because another country decides to invest and help a nation, that nation should be regarded as inferior?

This is not an attack on foreign investment, because, (as noted before) it is this investment is exactly what is sustaining

the Sierra Leone economy and causing other nations to see the potential of the once war-torn land. The only concern is that the welfare and national pride of Sierra Leone should not be sacrificed

“We have been told that we must move out of our homes to make way for some developments, if this happens we will be out on the streets” merely because some people do not have the resources to make major economical change in their country. Countries, such as Dubai, are successful and will probably continue to grow economically,

not only because of foreign investment; but also because their government realises the importance of its indigenous people being actively involved in the country’s development. If a visitor to Dubai wants to invest or set up a business, they have to part-own with a citizen. This scheme not only encourages investment and business, but also ensures that citizens are actively involved in the financial reaping within their country; there is equality! There are many affluent individuals living in Sierra Leone who could invest and make a great profit and difference, if only the resources were managed properly. An example of this is in the Gambia, its main export is ground nuts, and yet its people are in a better state than Sierra Leone. Nevertheless, whilst Sierra Leone is overflowing with diamonds (with an estimated, annual profit of $250-300million) and other resources, it is not immediately obvious to their citizens where the proceeds are going, with an annual inflation rate of 8.5%.

Foreign investment is very beneficial for the Sierra Leone economy, especially from the Chinese who have continuously shown an interest in Sierra Leone during and after the civil war. Historically, the Chinese have paid attention to many African countries as far back as the cold war, China paid for stadiums, dams and most famously the Tanzam railway between Zambia and Tanzania.

However, as much as Sierra Leone appreciates this, it is highly advisable that citizens remember their worth, and not underestimate their strength and capacity (no matter how big or small) to make effective contributions to their country’s progression. They should stand up and be counted as equals.

Freetown

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 9

business

PART ONE

Calabash talks to Dr. Adonis Abboud

Birth, childhood and growing up: Calabash: When and where were you born?

Jounieh: I was born in, Lebanon 1949 Calabash: Where did you grow up?

In Lebanon in a small village called JAJ, 5000 feet above sea level.

Calabash: What memories of your childhood do you treasure the most or are the most meaningful to you?

School days are always remembered; I always enjoyed the end of year special outings for students who excelled during the academic year.

Calabash: Do you have siblings?

2 sisters and 5 brothers Calabash: Ghana – what were your parents doing in Ghana?

My Dad emigrated to Ghana in 1926 and lived there most of his life , he was a merchant and served as Hon. Consul of Lebanon to Ghana when Dr. Nkrumah became the first Ghanaian president.

Calabash: Why the affinity to Africa by your family?

Our African story starts in Ghana from 1926 when my Dad first landed in Accra. Two of my brothers are born in Accra .I am the only one of eight children who ended up in Sierra Leone, 36 years, to the date.

Sierra Leone and business: Calabash: When did you come to Sierra Leone and why?

I came to Sierra Leone in 1975; when I was accepted to represent the business affairs of

10 | Calabash Magazine | issue nine

Say the name “Adonis Abboud “ to Sierra Leoneans and they immediately think of DSTV, Trans National SL, Honorary Consul, philanthropist, Rotary Club, and the list could go on and on. The fact is that Adonis Abboud is a recognized name in Sierra Leone.

An example of what integration should be and could be. But for many people all they know him for is his tireless acts of giving to the less priviledged in our midst. It is no wonder that he has been presented with many awards by different organizations in recognition of his contribution in different spheres of Sierra Leonean life.

Despite being a household name, very little is known about the man himself and what makes him tick. Meet him in this interview with Hannah Foullah.

a Ghanaian Businessman of Lebanese descent who established a gambling Company in Freetown. I can well remember the very first day I set foot on Sierra Leonean soil, .March 1975.

Calabash: What was Sierra Leone like when you first came here?

A totally different place, we had good roads, 24 hour electricity supply, regular water supply, one could hardly see a beggar in the street., Health care was affordable and available to everybody, you never heard that someone could not send his or her Children to school or could not afford to get medical services for his or her family. This was the time when the West asked us what we needed rather than us knocking at their door requesting financial help as the case is today.

Calabash: What gives you the will power to continue living and doing business in Sierra Leone?

We have gone through the Ugliest of Storms in this country, Political, military rebellions etc… Despite all of this there is something blessed in this Nation which keeps one’s hopes alive and I honestly never lost hope about our dear Salone.

Calabash: How did you get set up in your own business in Sierra Leone?

Firstly let me say that I like to explore special business ventures which require greater challenges than the norm rather than just buying and selling. That is the reason why I got into Satellite TVRO Systems in 1987. We were the first in West Africa to bring in the Giant Dishes .At that time S.LBS was off and people were thirsty for information and entertainment.

Calabash: What experiences have you gained whilst doing business in Sierra Leone, especially the type of business you’re in?

It’s a very Challenging experience, full of turbulences and unfriendly business ambiance. I always say,” If you succeed as a businessman in Sierra Leone you will be a King anywhere else”. Finding professionals and experts is one of the serious challenges in our developing market.

Calabash: Describe your business now.

(Trans National/Capital Radio) I can say with pride that in our 26 years of operations we have built ourselves an enviable record at Transnational. As for Capital Radio 104.9, that is another success story by itself.

Calabash: What challenges have you faced in doing business?

Well, the most serious challenges come from the professional attitudes of our work force. If we solve that through proper talent development and training we would have resolved 70 % of our problems.

Calabash: Are there opportunities here, and what would you say are the advantages of doing business here?

There are ample opportunities. If I am to advise anyone willing to invest in Sierra Leone I would tell them to rather go for a new product which is not available on the market . The Chamber of Commerce is also here to assist them, free of charge, and link them to credible partners.

Calabash: What has motivated/inspired you in running businesses here?

I believe that to get motivation you have to love what you do and the inspiration then comes naturally . I always had a passion for telecommunications and find myself very much inspired in this field.

Calabash: How have you kept yourself going during the downward trends of business?

That reminds me of the time we were in Exile in Conakry. I stayed at the Yugoslav Embassy, and of course I was unemployed. One of my twin daughters calls from overseas to tell me ( she was 23 then) …”Daddy I know it is tough for you out there , I called to tell you that I am working now and I can send something if you ever are in need “ .I shall never forget those few words from my own daughter …the message sends chills down my spine every time I think about it ….

Calabash: Have you ever been married?

Oh yes, to Sabahitta Radmilovic a Bosnian Citizen from former Yugoslavia.

Calabash: How many children do you have?

I have 3 girls, 2 of them are Twins.

Calabash: What sort of a husband and father would you describe yourself to be?

I would ask that question to my wife and daughters. I personally believe I have always given them the affection and education they deserved. However, I give more credit to my wife for the upbringing of my kids and devoting all her time and energy to bring them up as decent adults, and the results: They have graduated from the best Universities and are happily married.

Calabash: Has your family ever lived in Sierra Leone? If yes, for how long?

They were first in Freetown in 1975, and then back in 1985. Then they left as the Kids had to enter University .The eldest Natalia, went to Buckingham University and got her MBA from the University of MONTREAL CANADA. The twins got their BSC Mass COMM, from the LAU (Lebanese American University)

Extra curriculum activities Calabash: You have so much energy and love for life. How do you keep yourself going and what do you do to relax?

I love watching TV , News ,Documentaries, main sporting events , I play lawn as well as table Tennis , I did Skiing in my youth days , now I do virtual tennis at home and love Piloting my favorite Jet on the PC. Yes, Photography, both Still and Movie is a passion since I was 16 when I got my first Super 8 Movie Camera . I also contributed to the candid camera page of some local papers depicting some of the areas needing urgent attention in the field of Hygiene , safety and community services such as

Water supply , electricity supply , garbage collection etc…

Old monuments are a true inspiration for me , have an eagerness to explore what is beneath the ancient historical treasures .

Calabash: You seem to have a love affair with gadgets. Why are you intrigued by gadgets/technology?

This passion accompanied me right from my childhood , anything goes wrong in the house , my late Mum would call out my name ignoring all 7 others .I love anything to do with technology , new inventions etc…It keeps me abreast of happenings in a world of the bursting technological race .

Calabash: Give me an idea of the sort of gadgets you like to indulge in? What is your most expensive gadget?

I do spend a lot of time playing my Flight Simulator, Virtual Tennis on WII and watching Home 3 D movies while shooting 3D movies myself. I would say the most expensive one is the 3D as it is still a new technology, eventually like all others it will get cheaper.

Charity/Humanitarian work Calabash: How did you become interested in charity work?

I cannot remember that there was any particular date when my interest was born, I believe it is within my daily association with people that are less privileged and it was always a natural reaction to their plea.

Calabash: Give me an idea of the different projects you have been involved in?

This is a long story; some of our work is seen on the Pikin Bizness website www. pikinbizness.org Calabash: Why is it important for you to do all this? Is it rewarding?

This is a question which I have been asked multitude of times and I always said simply “ I love what I do and the reward is indeed great” ,Do you know what it means when a mother whose child is condemned to die is operated on overseas through the good contacts of humanitarians like David Apple field , Dr. Desmond Olu-Black and others; and a bit of financial sacrifice on my part: the Child is cured! That mother tells you ‘GOD BLESS YOU SIR’ this is different from the “God Bless you” you hear every day. This comes right-out of the depths of her heart.

Moreover I am blessed with a wonderful family; my kids are happy, successful and healthy …what more do I want as a reward Calabash: There are critics and cynics who would negatively interpret all this as attention seeking/publicity seeking and would even crucify you for spending time, money and resources, as well as questioning your motives. How would you answer such people?

I believe this is the price you pay for being

a public figure ,.However to reply to your question I would just ask any of those critics a simple question ‘ If the Kid saved was your brother or sister or maybe your son would you still have that reaction ?”

Calabash: How do you fund these projects?

99% from our Business Calabash: You have received a number of awards in recognition of your humanitarian work. Please name them. *Philanthropist Of The Year for 9 times, 7 of them consecutively from AWOl and Sierra Leone Excellence AWARDS and other Institutions in 1995 and 2004-2005-2006-20072008-2009-2010 *GOODWILL AMBASSADOR from CIVITAN USA I had the honor to receive this one together with Miss Christiana THORPE Chairlady NEC *Degree of Doctor in Civil Law (Honorius Causa) from the University of Sierra Leone signed by President Ernest Koroma Chancellor. I received this one together with H.E. Kabral Blay-Amihere, High Commissioner of Ghana to Sierra Leone 2007 *West African Youth Friendly Plaque 2011 *TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS Certificate of Outstanding Leadership ACCRA GHANA 2011 *TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS Certificate of Extraordinary Achievement ACCRA GHANA 2011 Calabash: How have you felt every time you receive an award or recognition for your work?

A great sigh of relief for being recognized.

Gratitude is a wonderful virtue.

Calabash: Adonis some people say, they would love to give back to society but lack the resources. What would you advise they do?

I have said it before, if we look at what we waste in our daily life, a tiny portion of that cannot harm us and will make someone smile. As Khalil Gibran said “ GENEROSITY IS GIVING MORE THAN YOU CAN AND PRIDE IS TAKING LESS THAN YOU NEED ‘ Calabash: Are Sierra Leoneans appreciative and supportive of your work?

Sierra Leoneans are generally grateful people.

(ED.PART TWO NEXT ISSUE!)

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By Daisy Bona

REFLECTIONS ON A NEW SIERRA LEONE

S

ierra Leone is gearing towards systematic steps aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict and tackling long-term development challenges. Such steps… ‘must also be geared towards strengthening national institutions, promoting national reconciliation and building of trust through effective communication, dialogue and attitudinal change that will strengthen the resolve of the people of Sierra Leone to continue to choose peace’.

Fine words from the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, a country that has just celebrated fifty years as an Independent nation. But then if we are to be honest with ourselves, then we cannot but accept the fact that during this period, the country

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descended from what Queen Victoria referred to as the Athens of West Africa… to the very bottom of the United Nations Human Development Index. Let us all agree that however lustily we may chant that famous line in the National Anthem, we have never really tried to give full effect to the words… Land that we love… Personal greed and disunity have been the cancers that have eaten away at the fabric of our society. Unfortunately, such absence of a strong sense of unity is also quite evident among our countrymen, most of whom were forced to escape to foreign climes by nepotism, frustration, lack of opportunity and finally, a war fuelled by greed and nothing else. But all is not lost.

One man whose firm resolve is to unite Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora is the Sierra

Leone High Commissioner His Excellency Mr Edward Turay, a charismatic and experienced politician and diplomat. As soon as he assumed office, he tried to assure all Sierra Leoneans and friends of Sierra Leone that as High Commissioner, he represents all Sierra Leoneans in the United Kingdom and other accredited countries and not just members of a single political party.

Although there were numerous constraints, mainly financial, hampering the success of the fiftieth anniversary celebrations, yet the High Commissioner, backed by dynamic staff at the High Commission, worked assiduously to give it a fillip particularly as the United Kingdom is the foster parent of Sierra Leone.

Through his enhanced open door policy instituted at the High Commission upon

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Mr Turay’s assumption of office in 2010, the High Commission won the African Category of the Ben TV Diplomatic Awards 2010. This was for Diaspora Growth, Development and Involvement; and Good Customer Services at the High Commission; Promoting the country image abroad and the Country’s Human Development.

Early this year 2012, the High Commissioner was invited to launch a special event on Reanimating Cultural Heritage and Development of Sierra Leone, a booster for tourism in the country The march to Independence started in 1960 when Sir Milton Margai was appointed the first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone. At the conclusion conference held at Lancaster House in London, where the modalities to grant Independent status to Sierra Leone were set out, the Secretary of State for the colonies of West Africa at the time Mr Iain McLeod, after signing the Instruments paving the way for the country’s Independence said, ‘ By signing this report I am so happy to speak registering the birth of an Independent Sierra Leone, which has been a friend of the British for 150 years and

most of us who have taken part in the talks see no reason why we should not remain close friends for many years to come’ To this, Sierra Leone’s first Prime Minister said, ‘ This indeed is a memorable day, we have been able to discuss things with friendship and cordiality and we will never be in a position to let you regret what you have done and Sierra Leone will forever be friends of Britain.

It may be recalled that there were a few dissenting voices among members of the Sierra Leone delegation at the conference which resulted in some political activists marking the lowering of the Union Jack and the hoisting of the Green White and Blue on the 27th of April 1961 from their Prison cells.

From 1961 to 1974, the country enjoyed an atmosphere of uneasy calm because of the cool and calculated nature of the first Prime Minister. But when Sir Milton Margai died in 1964, the boat quickly drifted into turbulent waters with his younger brother, Sir Albert, at the helm.

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From the curse of ex Brigadier David Lansana’s declaration of marshal law in March ‘67, Sierra Leone became plagued with different scenarios of strife, unrest, coups and counter coups. The worst being the eleven year sobel/ rebel war which brought the country to its knees and sent a large number of Sierra Leoneans rushing for the exit.

However, two men with some sense of direction helped create some semblance of peace by accepting the wishes of the people in democratic elections held in 2007 which saw the All Peoples Congress Party and the Peoples Movement for Democracy forming a government.

The climax of the 50th Anniversary was the visit of His Excellency the President of Sierra Leone, Dr Ernest Bai Koroma ,and representatives of the Open Government Initiative, a partner in government’s policy for the free flow of information in Sierra Leone’s visit to London.

At a well attended meeting of Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora, political parties, functionaries, dignitaries, the business community and friends of Sierra Leone in United Kingdom and beyond held on the 5th of November, 2011 at the Globe Academy in South East London., the President outlined policies adopted by his government since the assumed office.

Introducing President Koroma, the Sierra Leone High Commissioner ,Mr Edward Turay described the Sierra Leone leader as a well known personality to the United Kingdom as well as globally who in such a short time in office has transformed Sierra

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Leone from a down -trodden country to one of and stability and progress, winning the admiration of many.

In his address, President Ernest Bai Koroma expressed his appreciation to the entire Sierra Leonean Community in the UK as well as those who had travelled from other parts of the Diaspora, foreign business associates and other dignitaries who have associated with the efforts to rebuild Sierra Leone.

He said that the initiative taken by all to come together to transform the country was vividly expressed in the number of people at the meeting. The President told the gathering that he had always campaigned on a platform of change for a better Sierra Leone and emphasized that he was elected as a President for the whole of Sierra Leone and not as a President of any political party, and as such he is answerable to all the resilient people of Sierra Leone who had suffered so much untold atrocities during the war.

Dr Koroma said that the setting up of the Open Government Initiative which comprise of civil society and other national organisations is to monitor and review the activities and performances of all government ministers and other government functionaries, including himself, to ensure transparency.

The President said that after his election, he made a very ambitious commitment that during his first hundred days in office he would provide the city with twenty-four electricity supply, which was done He spoke of the Bare-foot Solar Project undertaken in India whereby elderly women are trained to make such solar panels. Some elderly persons from Sierra Leone have therefore been sent to India to train in the project and on their return to Sierra Leone, will in turn train other elderly women in the community to build such solar panels to provide electricity supply to about 149 chiefdoms in the provinces, such a project would greatly contribute towards the provision of cheap energy to large parts of the hinterland.

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St Joseph’s Secondary School Ex-Pupil’s Association 25th Anniversary

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ast year St Joseph’s Secondary Ex Pupils Association United Kingdom Branch celebrated in grand style the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Association which was founded by some patriotic ladies, former students of the school in Freetown Sierra Leone.

Although some of the founding members were not around to participate in the various activities marking the unique occasion, they were equally honoured at a grand dinner dance culminating in the celebrations held at the St Mary Hall, New Camberwell Road, in South East London.

The following founder members Mrs Olive the Association’s first president, now the keeper of the purse (treasurer ) Mrs Jane Parpar, auditor, Mrs Marvella McEwen, pastoral officer, and Mrs Emma Shoboyede an ex officio member were present at the dance to receive their well deserved awards.

Others such as Mrs Eileen Cole, Mrs Hannah Davies, Mrs Alicia Cole, Mrs Elicia Jones, Mrs Doris Smith and Mrs Georgiana Wilson, founder members of the Association, also received awards.

Family members of the following deceased members received awards on their behalf : Mrs Lovette Risch in whose house

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the association was formed in 1986, Mrs Madonna Jarette-Thorpe, who during their life time donated one of the top prizes for the raffle during the Association’s annual dance, a donation her son Mr Jarrett-Thorpe continues to honour.

Calabash would not be doing justice to the Association if the names of these ladies working relentlessly to keep the flames of the Association burning were

not mentioned. The present social secretary, Mrs Valerie Kabba who always makes sure events are properly catered for and keeps abreast with the activities of other associations, the Vice President Mrs Maddonna Johnson who had served as President but is always willing to step into the breach whenever any situation arises.

Ms Sandra Floode, the Association’s current Present could well be described as the Association’s backbone as she relentlessly works hard to hold it in one piece and maintain decorum at meetings and other activities.

The pastoral officer Mrs Marvella McEwen always ensures that anniversaries like birthdays, funerals and other occasions affecting members are marked by the appropriate cards.

Others who have contributed to the

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success of this body are Mrs Slyvia Mason, who served as President for almost eight years, Mrs Sylvia Tejan-Cole who on her one man membership drive encouraged former pupils of the school in London and beyond to join the Association. She was the one who convinced me to become a member.

Mrs Ann Marie Cassell a former long serving Secretary General, now an ex officio member always steps in when the officer was not available, Mrs Sana Lahai Taylor the assistant social secretary who liaises with the Social Secretary at functions, Mrs Susan Nicolls, the Assistant Treasurer supporting the Treasurer to maintain the account for good causes.

Everyone in the Association participates to achieve its goals.

Recently, a crop of new young ladies joined the Association and the seeds of these young plants have started germinating.

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How this noble body was formed?

In any part of the globe where they are found, Sierra Leoneans are known to support each other and the idea of forming the Association came in the activities of another ex -pupils Association and some people were known to attend more than one secondary school in Sierra Leone.

The St Joseph’s, Ex Pupils Association was created not in a counterpart school’s function of the opposite sex, but by the inspiration of a counterpart school member.

Mrs Eugenia Robin-Coker who was the master of ceremonies at the function, called on representatives of other ex pupils Associations to participate in a raffle draw, but no such Association of an ex pupil of Joseph’s was present and it was then that these patriotic ladies who were present at the function decided to form the Association.

Presently, there are about a hundred members in the Association which holds its monthly meeting on the last Sunday of every month at the Lambeth Mission ,3- 5 Lambeth Road London SE1 7DQ . Its fund raising activities include a thanksgiving service held annually on the first Sunday in May, a dinner dance on the first Saturday in December, luncheon sale and members reunion.

The Association has provided the St Joseph’s secondary school in Freetown with 145 metal desks and chairs and established close links with a sister organisation in America, the St Joseph’s Old Girls Association .

The Association is appealing to all former students of the school to come onboard, especially now that the Board of Governors has decided to privatise the school in Freetown.

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SIERRA LEONE AT FIFTY Major Milestones 1462

The Portuguese Pedro da Cintra landed on our shores and named the area Serra Lyoa meaning ‘Lion Mountains’.

1787

Arrival of a second batch of about 1200 freed slaves from Nova Scotia and 120 Europeans from England and Freetown was founded as a home for them by the Sierra Leone Company.

1799

Freetown was designated a Corporation with its own Mayor and Aldermen. The Sierra Leone peninsular was granted to the Sierra Leone Company by Royal Charter.

1800

550 Maroons together with a detachment of the King’s regiment arrived on the shores of Sierra Leone.

1808

The boundaries between Sierra Leone and Liberia were fixed ; Bai Bureh was crowned Paramount Chief of Kasseh while Madam Yoko was crowned Paramount Chief of the Kpa-Mendes.

50

11th May saw the arrival of 400 freed slaves and 60 whites from England. The group was granted land by King Tom and Granville Town was established.

1792

1885

1893

The Freetown Municipal Council was created.

1895

Sir Samuel Lewis became the first Sierra Leonean to be given a knighthood.

1896

The hinterland of Sierra Leone was designated a British Protectorate.

1898

An uprising against the imposition of a country-wide tax, known as the Hut Tax War was led by Paramount Chief Bai Bureh.

1931

Diamond deposits were discovered in Sierras Leone while a head count put the country’s population at 1.77million.

1934

Sierra Leone became a British Crown Colony.

Introduction of a broadcasting serviceanother first for Sa Leone.

1821

1951

The Gold Coast (now Ghana)and the Gambia which, together with Sierra Leone formed British West Africa, were administered from Freetown where the Governor was based.

1827

An Institution which was created by the Church Missionary Society(CMS) in 1814 to train teachers and clergy was re-established at Fourah Bay (presently the Deep Water Quay area)as Fourah Bay College; this was the first western style Institution for higher learning in sub- Saharan Africa.

1845

The Sierra Leone People’s Party was formed with Dr Milton Margai as its leader

May- The country held its first general elections as an independent nation which were won by the SLPP with Sir Milton still as Prime Minister. The then outspoken critic of the government, Siaka Stevens, launched his own party known as the All People’s Congress(APC)which was based in the northern part of the country.

196 - Sir Milton died leaving his half brother in the role of Prime Minister.

1967

The Legislative Council was transformed into the House of Representatives. Another political party, the United Progressive Party(UPP) with its core support in the Colony was launched.

1957

1968

1956

First parliamentary elections held in Sierra Leone won by the SLPP.

1960

The Lancaster House conference on the issue of independence for Sierra Leone was held in London and Sir Milton Margai was appointed Prime Minister. Fourah Bay College achieved University status.

1849

1961

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1962

Closely contested elections won by Siaka Stevens who was immediately ousted and put under house arrest by Brigadier David Lansana. On 23rd March, senior army officers comprising the National Reformation Council(NRC) under Brigadier Andrew Juxon Smith overthrew David Lansana and took over the government.

The first person of African descent was appointed Governor of Sierra Leone. The CMS Grammar School was founded for educating boys.

The first institution for the education of females, later to be named the Annie Walsh Memorial School, was founded by the CMS.

the ‘...Athens of West Africa’ still rang true. But did it mark the turning point when everything started to go south?

27th April – Sierra Leone achieved its independence from Britain with Sir Milton Margai as the country’s first Prime Minister.

At this juncture, the reference to Sierra Leone as

April, the Anti- Corruption Revolutionary Movement (ACRM)under Brigadier General John Amadu Bangura ,in turn, overthrew the

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NRC and restored Stevens to power.

One cannot help pointing out here that he was convicted and hanged for plotting against the State in March, 1970 by the man he had restored to power - a victim of his own popularity.

1977

50

The APC won the general Elections with an overwhelming Majority(APC:74; SLPP:15) and, a year later ,the government adopted a new constitution transforming the country into a One-Party State. All political parties with the exception of the APC were banned.

This period is what one Sierra Leonean writer termed ’...the seventeen year plague of locusts’.

1985

Siaka Stevens retired handing over the reins of government to his hand-picked successor, Major General Joseph Saidu Momoh who again amended the Constitution to return the country to a multi-party democracy.

1991

A rag-tag group of fighters with no coherent policy, and calling itself the Revolutionary United Front (RUF)under the leadership of a former army corporal named Foday Sankoh, started attacking and pillaging villages along the S/Leone-Liberian border.

1992

Young military officers calling themselves the National Provisional Ruling Council(NPRC) under the leadership of Captain Valentine Strasser staged a coup which drove Momoh into exile in neighbouring Guinea. This group was no more successful than the Momoh regime in halting the rebel incursions or the country’s descent into a failed State.

2002

Jan: president Ahmed Tejan Kabbah declared the rebel war over. In May, he won a five year term in office as an SLPP candidate.

2007

: The Presidential elections held on August 11 saw the candidate of the APC, Ernest Bai Koroma top the polls with 44.3% of the total votes cast ; followed by Solomon Berewa of

1996

Following Parliamentary elections in April, Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, a Diplomat of 20 years standing ,was elected to head a civilian administration.

1997

The short- lived Kabbah regime was overthrown by Major Johnny Paul Koroma who later invited Foday Sankoh’s RUF to join the Government.

1998

In March, ECOMOG forces ousted the AFRC cabal and reinstated President Kabbah.

1999

The Lome Peace Agreement (in effect a sellout to the RUF) was signed. Sankoh thus became Vice President of a country he’d been doing his utmost to destroy.

2000

May: Demonstrations against RUF was met by force and about 20 people lost their lives Consequently, Sankoh and other senior RUF members were arrested and relieved of their positions in the government. In November of that same year, the Abuja Accord was signed to facilitate the process of Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR).

the SLPP with 38.9% and Charles Margai of the People’s Movement for Democratic Change ( PMDC with13.9%). As this was below the 55% required to carry the first round, a run- off poll was conducted on 17th September which saw Ernest Bai Korma going through with a score of 54.6%.

2012

: Parliamentary and Presidential elections are scheduled for November.

Calabash hopes, better still, has no doubt these elections will be free and fair. It is not for nothing that a political analyst and writer referred to Sierra Leoneans as ‘...the world’s most resilient people ‘ you know!

Pdc.

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Mr Ibrahim Dumbuya, LL.M Barrister-At-Law President, Old Edwardians Association (UK & Ireland Branch) enabled me to enter a law degree in the United Kingdom. We had some excellent teachers including Walter Davies and Dorinda Davies (now deceased).

Calabash: Can you tell me what has changed from the time you joined your school Alumni to now?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: Since becoming President some 4 years ago, I have raised the profile of the Association to the extent that it is regarded as one of the foremost Alumni Associations in the United Kingdom, both in terms of the quality of the events held, as well as in terms of raising much needed funds for the school in Sierra Leone.

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Calabash: How far has your Alumni helped you develop or grow in all areas since you left Sierra Leone?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: I am sure that you are aware of the fact that I qualified over 30 years ago as a Barrister-at-Law, and that I have been practising law in the United Kingdom, specialising in Children Law. This would not have been possible without the learning I acquired at the school in Sierra Leone where the A levels I acquired there

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Calabash: Education is a key factor in Sierra Leone. What is your opinion about the current education status in your home land?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: Only having been to the country once in over 30years, it is difficult for me to comment on the issue.

However, last year I attended a Seminar organised by the Old Princewaleans Association (of which I am also a member), and there was a presentation by Dr Alex Blanshard, which did not paint a glowing picture of educational standards in the country – unlike during our time. It would be interesting to know how many students from the country now gain direct entry to Universities in the United Kingdom having taken what is the equivalent of “A” levels in our days. I am also not particularly impressed with the pictures of schools I see showing lack of maintenance over the years.

Calabash: Have you made any significant impact on your mother land, if you have what sort of contribution?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: Through my Association with school associations in Sierra Leone, I believe that I am in my own little way contributing to the improvement of education standards in the country. We know for a fact that there is little or no help coming from Central Government to assist the schools, and it is up to us in the diaspora who were privileged to attend those schools when we wanted for nothing, to now rise to the challenge to improve the lot of the current and future generation. My main goal presently is to restore St Edwards Secondary School to the position it was when I proudly attended there in the 70’s. I still believe in the maxim, “Educate a man, you educate a nation”.

Calabash: How do you see Sierra Leone in the next 10 years and where do you see your self in the future of S/Leone?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: I stated last year during the 50th Anniversary of the country’s independence that we should use 27 April 2011 as the date that we start the country on the road to not only improvement, but sustainable improvement. Our aim is to ensure that there is clean water, constant electricity supply, an excellent education system, and excellent hospital facilities.

The final aim would be a country with a social security system to help the poor and needy. All of these are achievable if you have people in power who want to achieve those goals. It requires total commitment from all concerned, and a pledge to put the country before anything else. It means complete and utter Zero Tolerance of any sort of corrupt practises – essentially a one strike rule administered from the top to the bottom.

It will require people who have achieved personality in their lives, and whose sole aim is to benefit the country. It is not an impossible dream

Calabash: What do you think of, when the word achievement is mentioned?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: It gives you a feeling of pride and fulfilment Calabash: Tell me about your family. Are you married, and how many children do you have?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: I am married with three grown up children. The first two have graduated and the last one is in the Second Year of a University degree. They have all gone through the school system in the United Kingdom.

Calabash: As one of the elders in the UK Sierra Leonean community, what sort of advice will you give to the typical Sierra Leonean family which is going through a tough time due the current global economic climate?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: It is a situation that is affecting everyone, though to different degrees. I would say to try as best to hang on in there, and hope that the good times will return again soon. I believe that we may already be seeing some of the shoots of economic recovery, with the recent announcement that employment in the United States is on the increase.

Calabash: What is your advice to the Sierra Leone youth in the Diaspora and in the motherland?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: Please be part of that journey to make Mama Salone a country we all should be proud to go and live, work and invest our money in. Malaysia and other countries were at one time at our level and look where they are today. That should be our goal in the next 50 years starting from 27 April 2011.

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Calabash: Who inspired you when you were younger and who do you consider your role model?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: I had always taken a keen interest in the law, and in Sierra Leone, it was someone like the late Berthan Macauley, Q.C. In the United Kingdom, it was Lord Denning. There is also the fictional lawyer in the Perry Mason novels as I read a lot of them during my school days in Sierra Leone.

Calabash: What lesson has life has taught you so far?

Ibrahim Dumbuya: Life has taught me to be patient and understanding; to be cool and calm under pressure, and to try and love and embrace everyone.

Calabash: And finally, what is your opinion on the dysfunctional family in UK? Ibrahim Dumbuya: I see a lot of this in my area of practice as a Children Lawyer, and it is not healthy for the children who have to grow up within such a family as their chances of succeeding in life are severely restricted. There are families who find it difficult to break through the system of being brought up in the care system.

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Interview with Dr Ousman Abdulai Conteh of the school who inspired students to be victorious in athletics, football and cricket.

Calabash: What is your role in your Alumni, the West African Methodists Collegiate School?

Dr Conteh: I am a past president and a fund-raiser of the association. As a very active member of the association I believe the association should support the school in Freetown. Our aim is to assist the School in projects that will enhance the functions of the school for its students. For example as president of the Alumni I presented science equipments to the school in Freetown at an assembly of past and present pupils.

Recently we joined forces with the alumni association in the United States of America to paint the school. These are the sort of things I believe the old boys association should be doing for the school.

Calabash: Why is the school Alumni so important to ex pupils residing in the United Kingdom?

Dr Conteh: First of all, it provides an opportunity for old boys of the school to get together and reminisce and think about how to support each other. Secondly, it focuses the minds of members who attended the school on supporting developments in the school. Thirdly, it brings members who did not attend the school at the same time together and gives them an opportunity to share the experiences they gained during the period they attended the school.

Fourthly, it provides a pillar of support for members during joyful and sad events so that members do not feel that they are alone during such events.

Calabash: Do you remember a famous or a most cherished day during your time in WAMCS? Dr Conteh: It was winning the intersecondary school football trophy for the first time and presenting it to an assembly of the school.

Calabash: Taking your mind back to the days when you were a pupil in WAMCS, what comes to your mind when the name Collegiate is mentioned?

Dr Conteh: It is a school that teaches young men discipline and hard work. It focuses the mind of students on how to be well grounded individuals who are able to withstand the challenges of life.

Calabash: Who was your best teacher during your days at WAMCS and why?

Dr Conteh: The teacher that inspired me most was Mr Willie Pratt who was a brilliant science teacher who gave confidence to students and made them believe that they can do anything they want as long as they work hard. Not only was he a science teacher, he was also sports co-ordinator

Calabash: In your days at school, the teachers observed disciplined and didn’t take mess from pupils. Today, they would have been classed as bullies. How do you reconcile or smooth things over with them when you meet in an Alumni event in the Diaspora?

Dr Conteh: During the period we were in school, the teachers adopted a carrot and stick approach towards discipline. Because of the strict discipline enforced at the school, students were forced to study very hard because they felt that hard work was the recipe for success. Those who did not work hard were subjected to corporal punishment and at the end of the day they also became hard working students. I appreciate what my ex-teachers did for me as an individual and I have nothing but praise for them and accord them the respect that they deserve whenever I come across them.

Calabash: When last did you visit the home land, what has changed?

Dr Conteh: In 2008, and what has changed is that Sierra Leone now has a thriving democracy which I have had the privilege of bringing about in my position as a Commissioner for Democracy. What was disappointing was that Freetown was overcrowded and this has led to socioeconomic problems in the capital and also in the country at large. The traffic situation was not getting better as the road infrastructures were incapable of dealing with the number of vehicles on the road. Another major change that was very pronounced was the gap between the rich and the poor and this is a recipe for chaos and instability if it is not addressed properly.

Calabash: Can you tell me what has changed from the time you joined your school Alumni to now?

Dr Conteh: What has changed is the dwindling of the number of active members

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in the association. There is also a lack of younger ex-pupils joining the association.

There has also been a proliferation of different organisations which are taking current members from the association. The association is seriously struggling from this.

We are currently addressing this issue and are actively trying to get new members to join the association as well as enticing those who have left to return to the association.

This is reflected in the current membership of the executive.

Calabash: Have you made any significant impact on your mother land, if you have what sort of contribution?

Dr Conteh: I am a democrat and a trained political scientist who believes that good governance is a recipe for development. I believe that government should be accountable to the people and lead the country towards socio-economic and political development. I am very pleased that I made a major contribution towards the transition from military rule to democratic governance in 1996 as a commissioner for democracy in the National Commission for Democracy (NCD). As an organisation the NCD was instrumental in the mobilisation of the citizens of Sierra Leone for democratic governance through-out the country. One of my major responsibilities in the commission was to implement the programmes of the commission in the Northern Province. I was also responsible for the production of all civic education materials nationally including the National Pledge which were disseminated through-out the country.

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Calabash: How do you see Sierra Leone in the next 10 years and where do you see yourself in the future of S/Leone?

Dr Conteh: I am very optimistic about the future of Sierra Leone. A step in the right direction would be to tap all the human and natural potentials of the country which is very easy to do if we have the right people in the right places. I believe that Sierra Leone would be highly placed in the community of nations in the next ten years.

I see myself as playing a significant role in the development of the country just as I have done in the past.

Calabash: Education is a key factor in Sierra Leone. What is your opinion about the current education status in your home land?

Dr Conteh: Sierra Leone has been called the “Athens of Africa” because of the high standard of education that the country used to have. Unfortunately, the standard of education has slipped a little bit due mainly to the lack of investment in that sector. There is the urgent need for major investment as the future of the country depends on its educated nationals?

Calabash: What recalls to memory when the phrase “proper governance” is mentioned?

When it is mentioned it means power resides with the people of the country and there is also active involvement by everyone in the governance of the country. It involves transparency, responsibility and moreover those who are put in the position of trust are accountable to the people.

culture

Calabash: If you were asked to be the president of your motherland what would you change?

I will change the attitude of our nationals so that the country becomes the number one thing they think about each and every day. This emanates from top to bottom and I will ensure that every citizen participates in national development and reaps the benefit of the resources of the country.

Calabash: If you can make a list of your achievements what would be first five items on your list and what would be your last?

Firstly, being a good husband and father; secondly, my academic achievements which include being the first African to graduate with a doctorate in international relations from the University of Keele in England; thirdly, my contribution to the establishment of democratic governance in my country; fourthly, as president of the Fourah-Bay Foulah Town Collective in the UK and the organisation of the most successful outing of all Sierra Leoneans in the UK; and fifthly, serving as president of the old boys WAMC in the UK. Calabash: I phoned your home to arrange this interview and your daughter answered the phone. Tell me about your family. Are you married, and how many children do you have?

I have been married to my wife for thirtysix years this year and we have been blessed with four children. I am very proud of my children’s achievements in their various fields. Most recently I have been blessed with twin grandsons.

Calabash: As one of the elders in the UK Sierra Leonean community, what sort of advice have you got for the typical Sierra Leonean family who is struggling in maintaining a proper family life?

First of all, they should not lose sight of their cultural heritage and emphasize the value of education to their children and encourage them to work hard.

Calabash: Who inspired you when you were young and who do you consider your role model?

My dad inspired me and became my role model.

Calabash: What lesson has life taught you so far?

To work hard, dedicate oneself to one’s family and serve the community to the best of one’s ability.

Calabash: I learnt you where one of the founding father of the Fourah Bay Foulah Town association, give me an insight on the organisation.

The Fourah-Bay Foulah town collective was set up to promote the social educational and cultural heritage of the descendants of the Fourah-bay Foulah town communities in the UK and in Freetown. Since it was set up, it has become a focal point of support for our people during times of joy and also times of adversity. Our members interact during festive seasons and also we organise outings that have enabled our people to go to different seaside towns in England at least once a year enabling them to have a wonderful day out.

Calabash: And finally, if you were to be an animal what would you be and why?

Lol. I would love to be lion because they are dedicated to their family and play a leadership role in the animal kingdom.

I am dedicated to serving humankind.

Calabash: Talking of outings, The Fourah Bay Foulah Town Association or organisation organises family day visits to the beachside town in the United Kingdom; why was the last outing so poorly planned and organised?

The last outing was not organised by the Fourah-bay Foulah town collective, simply because it fell during the month of Ramadan.

Calabash: If you were to improve on the planning of the beachside family day trip what would you improve?

First of all, we have to improve on the coordination of the outing so that people should take responsibility for their waste.

We go out to enjoy the day but we should be mindful of the people who live in those areas and not leave the beaches in a filthy state. It is a bad reflection on the organisers and the community as a whole. It also gives the respective council’s the right to refuse the family day out next time we write to ask if we can organise a trip to their beaches.

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culture

During the year the Ex-pupil association or Alumni of schools from the home land makes it a must in networking by celebrating a variety of events.

T

he Calabash magazine attended some of its activities which have become a Sierra Leonean thing in the Diaspora culture trend, or making home where you find yourself.

These trends or nostalgic activities will commence at the beginning of the year with luncheon sales and end with a Dinner and Dance. Others will start with a thanksgivings service mirroring what it used to be like in the days when Sierra Leone was called the Athens of Africa (the centre for Africa Education), and end it with Dinner and Dance.

To get a feel of these nostalgic events or trends I attended the Methodist Girls High School Luncheon sales in the church hall of Kennington Church at Kennington in London, United Kingdom on a summer’s afternoon.

The event was meticulously and painstaking organized from the food on display to the attire worn by the ladies on the day. The aroma of the food was irresistible so I was tempted to walk to the other end of the hall to find out what that delicious smell was. My eyes, nose and taste buds could not resist the temptation of the Sierra Leonean dishes on display, I asked the

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lady who was standing by the stall what the food was, and with a broad smile she replied “Obiata and foofoo”. I further asked how much, and she replied five pounds. I dipped my hand into my pocket and took out a brand new crispy ten pound note and paid for two plates of “Obiata and foofoo “(eat pan broke plate). I sat down, ate my food and digested it with a pint of Guinness.

Now fully loaded I ended my visit by taking a few snap shots of the ex pupils nostalgic luncheon sale. So if you are missing Sierra Leonean dishes and you need fun or net working with other Sierra Leoneans find out where the Ex-pupils are holding their events or check on the function calendar in this magazine.

This nostalgic event of the Sierra Leone Ex-Pupils Associations in the United Kingdom interested a good friend of mine who asked me,”when next are you going to attend one of these events” adding,”you

know we don’t have this nostalgic trend in our own community, and just think that with all the schools and colleges we have in Nigeria, there are no school reunions of ex pupils. Can you take me to one of your events?”

I contemplated why and what so interested my friend that a non Sierra Leonean wanted to patronize the trend of school days. I checked my activities’ planner and to my amazement, the coming Sunday would be the Methodist Boys High School annual Thanksgiving Service event.

I picked up my mobile phone and called my friend. “Hello, do you want to join me on the first Sunday in April to attend a Thanksgiving Service being held be the best school in the history of Sierra Leone?” He

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Ex-pupil association... continued responded excitedly from the other side of the line “Yes, Yes and why not, I need to get this nostalgic feeling of being back in school with my ceremonial uniform.”

We set out on a cool early spring Sunday afternoon to Wesleyan Methodist Church in Old Street, London, United Kingdom to attend the Annual thanksgiving service of the Methodist Boys High School. I was not disappointed. When we got into the church, the Ex-pupils were already in the church yard and corridor ushering friends, families and visitors into the church.

My friend could not contain his excitement seeing the Ex-pupils all well attired in their White Blazer, black trousers, white shirt and school tie, and some members with camanband round their waist line.

The church service was touching, especially as the sermon was eloquently delivered by the pastor of the day. But the icing of this nostalgic feeling was the singing of the school song Laboramus Expect antes by the Ex-pupil.

As we left the church, he tapped me on my shoulder and said “This is the nostalgic feeling I was graving for and it takes my mind back to my School days. I wish I can introduce this trend in our community”.

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fashion & style

Isha Kabba I was fortunate enough to have been one of the people to escape the rebel war. I entered the United States as a refugee to gain a life of Perseverance, Independence, and most of all; an opportunity for education.

Who are my Parents, and are they living with me in the USA? My father is the late Alhaji Abdul Rahman Kabba, popularly known as Nafaya Kabba.

He passed away peacefully on November 24th 2010 at home in Elk street in Freetown.

My father was the Mandingo tribal Headman in the Western area. My father was a popular businessman who started his trade in Kono District in the Early Seventies. He later moved to Freetown where he engaged in Retail business. He succeeded in establishing the popularly known “Nafaya Supermarket” at Rawdon Street. My mother is the beautiful M’balu Fatima Kabba. She resides with me here in the United States. My mother is my backbone; my mother is also a caregiver by profession, who enjoys taking care of people and making her family happy. I am my mother’s only child thus far. My parent means the world to me!

My Bio: My name is Isha Rahman Kabba, born May 24th, 1987 in the Republic of Sierra Leone, West Africa. I am the youngest of 18 children, and grew up in a home with an abundance of love and positivity. I am presently a senior at Middle Tennessee State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology (Pre-Medicine). I am highly selfmotivated and live my life each day with the drive to share my positive personality with the world. I hold true to my ambitions and career aspirations because I am not limited in my hopes, dreams and pursuit

for greatness. I put God first in all that I do, and know that through His grace, all things are possible.

What brought me to the United States?

In 2002, Sierra Leone emerged from a long and violent civil war that displaced two million people, killed more than 50,000 and fostered widespread abuse of human rights. 7 years after the end of the civil war, Sierra Leone is still struggling to build its economy, following a peace agreement which was signed between the rebels and the government of Sierra Leone in July 1999.

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believe that the youths are ready for some adequate changes to partake in Sierra Leone.

One of the reasons why I decided to do the Miss Africa U.S.A pageant is because I want to inspire my Sierra Leonean youths to start thinking of themselves as future leaders; instead of victim. We must learn to respect them and treat them well, we must educate the youth for the betterment of their futures, and also for the betterment of Sierra Leone. We must feed the youth when they are hungry, provide them with shelter when they are homeless. Provide them with affordable and timely medical care. The Future of our Land lies in the hands of the youth, Therefore we must never turn our backs on them in the time of dispairity. We need to encourage each other to keep striving for the improvement of our homeland, Sierra Leone.

Extracurricular Activities What am I studying, and what are my plans when I finish college?

I am presently a senior at Middle Tennessee State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology (Pre-Medicine).

In 5 years, having graduated from medical school, you will find me embarking on the journey that I hope will define my life. I will open a series of free clinics in Sierra Leone that will cater to less fortunate women. My hope is to offer a full range of free gynecological and obstetric services to the women of my country who otherwise would not be able to afford these medical options. I am very passionate about this situation! I strongly believe that when I return home to impart the knowledge that I have on women’s healthcare to Sierra Leonean women, I will be empowering women in my country to improve this dilemma. By doing so, these women would be simultaneously strengthening the African society as a whole, while enhancing the continent’s broader development prospects.

I feel it is crucial to educate our women at an early stage because they will be able to understand while they develop. This will in turn enable them to impart what they have learned to other young girls. Furthermore, I would like to take on the most significant role of all – that of wife and mother.

Miss Sierra Leone USA I am currently the reigning Miss Sierra Leone USA 2011/2012. It is truly a blessing, to be representing my homeland, of Sierra Leone. I feel honored to be the one this year holding the torch high for my Country. I

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In my free time I enjoy working out because I believe that the human body is the home where the flesh rests, so we should; by all means take good care of ourselves.

Teaching our youth; especially, our female youth the necessity of vigorous exercises on a daily basis. I enjoy cooking for my family on the weekends, being a fulltime student, the weekend is the only time I have to relax, spend quality time with my loved ones, and also catch up on the new going on in Africa, especially in Sierra Leone. I enjoy reading history novels as well.

Sierra Leone Next Decade The United Nations ranks Sierra Leone second-to-last in the world in development.

In addition to severe unemployment, the country has an estimated 340,000 orphaned children and the highest infant mortality rate in the world. Nevertheless, Sierra Leone

has been endowed with one of the most beautiful environments in the world. We are known as the Lion Mountain because our coastline is close to the mountains which look like lions from afar especially when viewed from the beaches such as No2 beach, Kent, Lumley Beach and Bonthe Island. Our beaches are one of the most idyllic with breathtaking beauty. The sea makes Freetown overpoweringly spectacular.

In both our pure white and tantalizingly yellow beaches the warm waters of our ocean ten degrees from the equator are ideal for swimmers. “Sierra Leone has massive natural resources and wonderful possibilities commercially in agriculture, tourism, mining and other sectors.” My vision and aspiration for Sierra Leone is to establish young free enterprise, where education can be the key to the youth’s future. In the next Decade I envision Sierra Leone to effect long term community improvement, to rank amongst the greatest nations like Europe and America. We will be re-defining and unearthing Sierra Leone’s beauty and also advocating for a better health care system.

In the next decade, our country will be a community where everyone’s basic needs are met. All we have to do now to prepare for the next decade is to nourish the seeds of knowledge already planted within the hearts of the youth.

Sierra Leone Music I am a true African woman I am very proud of my culture, and my tradition.

Indeed, I listen to a lot of Sierra Leone music.

During the years, I realized that my Salone music is therapeutic for my soul It calms me down, and brings me back to my roots.

Some of my favorite types of music includes Mandigo music, Krio Music, Salon Oldies.

Etc.

Soniesha

fashion & style

Calabash meets with one Sierra Leonean upcoming celebrity model and music star Calabash: What is your name again? And why are you called or why do people call you Soniesha?

Soniesha: My name is Sonia Sesay, Soniesha is my stage name, I called myself Soniesha because it doesn’t sound much different between Sonia and Soniesha and there is something special about the name that I can’t figure out. (Laugh)

Calabash: You are now in college, what are you studying?

Soniesha: I am studying Business Accounting and also going to University this year September.

Calabash: What is keeping you busy during the day when you are not on the catwalk, modeling or singing?

Soniesha: Well I am a Student. I like to read a lot, shopping, drinks with friends and watch movies.

Calabash: Is facebook good or bad?

Soniesha: Well it’s good for me because I never get bored when I am on it.

Calabash: You have been involved in Beauty Pageantry in the United Kingdom; can you give me the names of the pageants?

Soniesha: Sure. Miss Limo, Miss London City, Miss Teen Galaxy, Miss Teen Queen UK, Miss Teen Earth UK and Miss Sierra Leone @50 Calabash: Which of the beauty pageants was your best?

Soniesha: Hmmm! I will say Miss Teen Queen UK, its was so amazing I met different people and out of 200 girls, I made it to the top 12. (Hay)

Calabash: Do you use facebook and why?

Soniesha: Yes I do because my fans are very supportive and it really fun to use.

Calabash: Do you use make up, which is your best?

Soniesha: (Smile) I use makeup occasionally and my best is 2true Calabash: Who is your role model and why?

Soniesha: Well I must say my mum and dad because they are extra ordinary, the best parents in the world I love them to death.

Especially my mum she inspires me and always give me confidence.

Calabash: Are you missing your home and why? Do you speak Krio?

Soniesha: Of course I miss my Home so much I was born in Sierra Leone. Krio language is very common in my country.

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Calabash: What is your best Sierra Leone Dish?

Soniesha: (Laugh) I have lots of favourite dishes but my best is Fofo n Okra.

Calabash: So tell us about your new single R DAE WONDER Soniesha: (Smile) r dae wonder is a song I wrote when I was 10yrs old and I said to myself, I will one day have my own song, I am so blessed the song finally is out, my friends and fans are really supportive. Thanks to God. Calabash: You feature one of Jungle Leaders Dr Filling, how was working with him Soniesha: Yes, ooh my God it was amazing; he is very talented you can’t believe he made R DAE WONDER beat in 15mins; I was like wow what a creative man... Shout out to DR Filling keep the good job it was a honour working with you.

Calabash: Where can we get your song?

Soniesha: On YouTube, SalonetrueFans.com, 40 Acres Production and my CD is out now; get your copy now please.

Introduction to Mayer fashion models and Beauty pageant Mayer Fashion was launched in 2010 to help teenagers enter the world of modelling, dancing, singing, and beauty pageantry to name a few. Mayer Fashion is the business name for Miss Mayene Sesay, a versatile and inspiring black woman highly talented and gifted in the disciplines of fashion. She has a keen interest and a special love in seeing young girls and boys across the country especially Sierra Leonean, achieve their dreams in the world of fashion.

She also has her own modelling company named mayermodels.com and she is currently working on a beauty pageant called, Miss Borough

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England, which will take place July.

She says she is inspired by Oprah Winfrey and Wendy Williams and is working towards the ultimate goal of contributing meaningfully to the world of fashion and leaving a lasting impression. Her modelling agency is currently working with all Sierra Leone stars to help them with their movies, music and so on.

Miss Mayene is a born Sierra Leone, but started her business in the Nederland, where she lived for 5years, with fashion shows and dance groups.

In 2005 she decided to move to the UK where she continued her business.

fashion & style

SWANK TIPS FOR LOOKING GREAT FOR LESS

Story Hannah Foullah

It seems it was just the other day, when we ushered in the New Year. But time has flown so fast and yes, pinch yourself the end of the year is here!!! A new year has been born.

This piece gives great tips of how you can look great for less during festive seasons.

Every festive season comes with a very busy schedule of events and activities for everyone. If you’re a woman, it means you need to have a wardrobe of exciting and appropriate outfits that will make you noticeable and memorable. But with increasing difficult financial times and competing needs, it is difficult to splurge on a new wardrobe just for the season.

Jenneh Amara Bangali, of SWANK COUTURE says women don’t need to moan and groan over this. What she has done is go “through her Africana wardrobe “and has discovered she does have clothes to wear.

She shares some tips that will spare our

pockets and purses and still help us look like a million leones.

1. Turn your old clothes to new clothes First and foremost, go into your wardrobe, get together all your clothes and separate them into different looks for the weddings, carnivals, discos and whatever occasion you have lined up. Don’t worry about buying new clothes if you can’t afford it. Then take out the ones that still look good on you and that for no reason on earth you shall part company with. If you have worn them too many times its time to change the look of those outfits.

2. Accessorize Go to an accessories shop and get some corsages, broaches, and broad ribbons, four yards of thin ribbon with which you can cut yourself two thin belts. A scarf would enhance a day look and an evening look as well. Get some beaded necklaces which you can use to add color to your outfits. Remember, necklaces can be used as belts or bracelets. Don’t forget to make use of the belts you already have in your wardrobe.

3. Alterations The sooner you get to the tailors the better it will be for you, to avoid the usual

disappointment. Its now time to shorten that long dress. You can make it into a mini or mid length dress and accessorize it to get a different look. If it’s a plain fabric, why not get a little embroidery done around the edges or wherever you fancy. Transform a dress with sleeves into a Tube dress or a one sleeved dress. Try being creative to cut down your expenses.

4. Go African Wearing African fabric on a night out is so cool. A Cat suit would look elegant or a sexy dress in Ankara, batik, gara, brocade or whatever fabric you can lay your hands on.

You will stand out more as you might just be the only one with that LOOK. Plus it saves you a trip to the boutiques.

Calabash style, hopes these tips are useful in giving you the million leones look this Christmas. For Jenneh, a household designer this does it for her. “I have not bought or made a single new dress and I have no intention of doing so. I found dresses that are 4 years old and I surely am going to REVAMP them this year.”

Complete the look, by putting on your flats or your heels and step out in style with your re-cycled look and believe me no one will notice but you will be noticeable and memorable in a good way.

10% OFF VOUCHER

Visit us with this voucher/book and get 10% off some of our services. Limited to one voucher per person . Valid for 6 months after this issue.

Code- CAL2331MAG

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flash

Francess Kabia Friends and families joined in the 50th birthday celebration and Wedding Anniversary of Frances Kabia which was celebrated at the Anerley Town Hall in Anerley, London.

The event was well planned and organised.

There was a lot to eat and drink.

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flash

This Joyous Occasion

It is usual for families, friends and even work colleagues to get together to throw a party celebrating a joyous occasion or event of a loved one. In fact a party can be thrown for practically any occasion. Birthday and wedding celebrations are top of the list for organising such parties, so probably it came as little surprise to Matilda when one was organised in our honour. What she didn’t bargain for was the style, splendour and glamour of the celebration.

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Sometime ago, St Mary was the central venue for celebrating a great milestone in the life of youthful looking Matilda. The hall was jammed packed with ladies in their flamboyant African and western costumes and gent suited in design cut in African French and English style.

The hall itself was arrayed in an African setting and variety of music ranging from calypso to African beat supplied by Davidson Sawyerr who added colour and excitement to the joyous occasion.

The food comprises of f African and European cuisine served by the famous Sierra Leonean caterer, Mrs Eva Hardin.

The celebrant, robed in a special embroidered lace dress for the occasion, responded to speeches made in her honour by eloquent speakers thanked all who contributed to make her birthday a memorable one. She also said that she was flattered by the warmth she had received by families, and friends alike.

The celebration continued to the e early hour of the next day, and it was really a party to be will remembered.

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focus & AWOL

FOCUS

FOCUS Launched with a bang at the Kingdom Life Ministry in Quebec Way, Surrey, United Kingdom.

The Event was attended by people from all backgrounds. Read more in next issue.

AWOL’s Awards Night for Salone’s 50th Anniversary Sierra Leoneans in the United Kingdom congregated at the Light House in Camberwell Green, London, to celebrate the Sierra Leonean fiftieth anniversary and Awards organised by the United Kingdom All Works of Life.

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Patrick Son

Above: Couple with Best-men, Bridesmaid and close family members Left: Bride, Lucy Balon accompanied by dad, Mr Gabriel Baion ‘Who giveth this woman to be married to this man?...’

Above: Cutting of the cake: both mothers(in-law) looking on Below: Party Time: Bride and Groom in their unique asho-ebi, while auntie Catherine,resplendent in her blue lace asho-ebi in the foreground, appears to be conducting proceedings.

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Below: Little ones To The Fore, Bride and Groom with ‘little Bride and Groom, Carla Whitehead and Ryan Baion; Page Boy, Gerorge Ndoeka, and Flower Girl, Regina Ensah ‘…it (marriage) was ordained for the increase of mankind…and that children might be brought up in the fear and nurture of the lord,..’

health

Top ten threats to African men’s health They cause more than 60 per cent of all African men’s deaths in the world. Find out what you can do to protect yourself.

For the weaker sex, African women do pretty well. African men die sooner; they’re 70 per cent more likely to die from strokes and high blood pressure that affect both sexes and 60 per cent more likely to develop them in the first place. Why is this? Is it down to genes?

We don’t think so. If you look at the top ten health threats to African men living in the UK, you’ll find that many can be prevented.

Some can even be stopped in their tracks if you know the warning signs, have a few tests done by your GP and make some lifestyle changes.

Heart disease The number one threat to African men’s health in the UK and else where in the world is heart disease, killing over 50,000 men annually - one in five of all male deaths.

Sadly, most are preventable.

Heavy food stuff (Cassava Leave and Rice, pounded yam and Okra soup, washed down with Guinness) watch out if you don’t exercise it will increase your cholesterol and the chance of heart disease is higher.

What you can do about it You’re at risk if you are over 40, overweight, have high blood pressure and cholesterol, are a smoker, are diabetic or have a family history of heart disease. See your GP for advice and try to modify your lifestyle: Quit smoking, improve your diet to include fruit, vegetables and fibre, avoid foods containing saturated strands of fat limit your alcohol intake, try to maintain a healthy weight, and incorporate some exercise into your routine.

Stroke In 2007, over 20,000 men died of stroke.

Strokes caused more death in men than any single cancer and are the leading cause of disability in the UK. Around half a million people in England alone have some form of disability because of stroke. African men are not exempted and it is on the increase on the African continent What you can do about it Most people think of strokes affecting only the elderly, but anyone can get one. Strokes are more common in men than women and the vast majority occurs in people over the age of 45. You are more at risk of a stroke if you have high blood pressure and cholesterol, smoke, drink to excess, are overweight, diabetic, already have heart disease or have previously had a heart attack. To reduce your risk, have your GP check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, maintain a healthy weight, stop smoking, cut back on salt in your food and limit your alcohol intake.

Lung cancer Lung cancer is the biggest cancer killer of men in the UK, with around 16,000 men dying from it every year. It kills African men before it is diagnose due to lack of proper medical facility, however African men in the Diaspora shy away from the hospital What you can do about it Smoking causes 90 per cent of lung cancer cases, though a family history of the disease, exposure to radon gas, air pollution, secondhand smoke and chemicals like asbestos can also cause it. The symptoms of lung cancer can include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing up blood, chest pain, weight loss and fatigue. To prevent lung cancer, stop smoking, doing so will also reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.

Prostate cancer Prostate cancer is the most common cause of cancer in men. Each year approximately 35,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and around 10,200 die from it, yet a recent survey found that 60 per cent of men were unaware of the symptoms.

What you can do about it Over 70 per cent of new cases occur in men over the age of 65, and having a close family member who has had the disease makes it more likely you will get it too. Early symptoms may include the need to urinate often, passing urine slowly, discomfort while

urinating, blood in urine or semen, pain or stiffness in back, hips or pelvis and difficulty in having an erection.

If you have any of these symptoms, see your GP. There is no one way to prevent prostate cancer. However, eating a healthy balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables and fibre is associated with a lower risk of many cancers. Cutting back on red meat and saturated fat and drinking alcohol in moderation may also reduce your risk.

Bowel cancer Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in men and each year over 20,000 men are diagnosed with the disease in the UK and around 8,500 die from it.

What you can do about it If caught early enough, it is one of the most treatable of cancers, with 90 per cent of those diagnosed living for more than 5 years.

It tends to occur in people over the age of 60 and its risk factors include a family history of the disease, having diabetes, ulcerative colitis or Cohn’s disease, a poor diet, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and being inactive. Symptoms might include bleeding from the bottom, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain and tiredness.

Liver disease In 2008 there were 4,764 deaths in England and Wales due to alcoholic liver disease. Three-quarters were men. Alcoholic liver disease is a group of illnesses which develop when the liver becomes damaged due to heavy drinking including fatty liver, hepatitis and cirrhosis.

What you can do about it It’s a fatal mistake to think that binge drinkers are most at risk from liver disease.

People most at risk are those who drink over the limit on a regular basis over the years.

Alcoholic liver disease does not usually cause any symptoms until the liver has been seriously damaged. When this happens, alcoholic liver disease can cause nausea, weight loss and eyes and skin turning yellow.

The best way to prevent alcohol related liver disease is not to drink alcohol, or to stick to the recommended daily limits. For men this means drinking no more than three to four units a day. One unit of alcohol is equal to about half a pint of normal strength lager, a small glass of wine or a pub measure (25ml) of spirits.

Read more in our next issue.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 41

diary

Tyrone

Abego & Renee

Tyrone

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Calabash magazine at the Tutu Balloon Valentine dinner and dance evening at the Kingdom Christ Ministry, Quebec Way in Surrey Quays, London United Kingdom caught up with Tyrone, One of Sierra Leone upcoming male model tells what it is like in celebrating Valentines day. Read more in issue 10

Tyrone

Abego & Renee tells Calabash magazine about their dream wedding as they celebrate their anniversary read more in Issue 10

diary

Sultan of Peckham The Sultan of Peckham explains to Calabash magazine why he is tying the knot in Diaspora trend of the day.

Read more in Issue 10

Albert Academy A representative of the ex-pupils association of Albert Academy gives his views about development in the hometown.

Read more in Issue 10

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 43

faith

Christ Pentecostal Church United Kingdom 10th Birthday

The year 2011 was special in a sense it saw individuals, institutions and countries celebrating birthdays and anniversaries.

It also unfolded many sad incidents and tragedies all over the world, which calls for God’s gracious intervention.

One such body is the Christ Pentecostal Church which holds its Sunday services at the Castle Mead Tennant hall at Camberwell Green South East London. This rapidly growing religious institution is a family oriented church known for its praying and counselling qualities , a place where the distress, lonely, sick, and destitute can find solutions to their myriad problems.

Irrespective of age, sex, national or creed people suffer different kinds of depression, ailments or problems and medical sciences have different names for all of these malaises. Most of which lead to cancer, diabetes, hypertension or stroke.

No right minded individual would neglect seeking medical attention if suffering from an illness, but prayers also work wonders, especially with faith and the right place, where such prayers are offered.

Christ Pentecostal church founded by Pastor Joseph Sesay, a very unassuming young man with a vision directed by God and motivated by Jesus Christ the renowned saviour. He has spent the greater part of his adult life pioneering God’s work, in his homeland Sierra Leone and the republic of  Nigeria.

According to the founding pastor the church had its inaugural service on Sunday 2nd September 2001, with 17 members comprising of 4 men, 7 women and 6 children including his family. Through the dedication of these members some of whom are still supporting the work of the church and others, such an inspiring thanksgiving and harvest service was held to thank God for his grace and blessings during the past ten years.

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faith

The preacher for the service Rev Kate Kamara of Christ the Corner Stone Ministry who also served as a minister in Christ Pentecostal church described pastor Sesay as a very special person and praised his dedication to God’s ministry. The theme of her sermon was taken from the book of Amos chapter 5 - 4 ‘ Seek the Lord and ye shall live’.

The lady preacher reiterated that ten years of existence with all the vicissitudes of life is not an easy thing. She described life as a football game where all participating teams’desire is a determination to win and such could only materialised if every member of the team stayed focus as the match officials such as the referee’s duty, was to make sure that the game was played according to the rules.

But with Christ she went on, everyone is a winner. She congratulated the Pastors and members of the church for playing a winning game which God has culminated in such a grand tenth anniversary celebration.

She referred the congregation to 1st Chronicles chapter 28 – 9 which says, serve God with a perfect heart and willing mind. For a church to exist for ten years without any problems indeed blessing.

‘God can raise anyone to become great, whether in the church or state, only seek after your dreams and don’t get trapped by false dogma, don ‘t settle for less’ the lady preacher said.

She advised members of the congregation to look at their beginning.’In everything you do, start with God when you are with him, no one will drag you down. Always be influenced by God and let Christ be your Christ’ she concluded.

Apart from Sundays’ services, the church

also organises other activities, a Sunday school by a very devoted elder Mrs Mildred Kamara-Laye, a young but impressive choir under the watchful eye of the church organist and choirmaster elder Ayo Collier assisted by the founding pastor’s daughter Miss Josephine Sesay.

The popular annual womens’ thanksgiving service, members and childrens’ birthdays which are observed in special social occasions held by parents and supported by members of the church.

A promising member of the church Sunday’s school, who loves singing and taking part in activities in the church for

children, she would like to become a doctor, nurse or a model. Among her many friends at school are Shemuel,Isabel,Chole, Famiya, Akila and Taylor.

Her elder sister Mariatu Kamara also a devoted young lady of the church gave birth to the latest addition to the church in 2011, a son Zachary, Kristian Owusu-Faaye Isha Kamara a year six pupil of St Georges primary school also celebrated her 10th birthday a member of the Sunday school, who loves singing, dancing and participating in cultural activities. Isha would like to be an actress, a nurse or a doctor.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 45

faith

Her role model is Beyonce, who she says is very talented with good potentials.

Among her many best friends in school are Shadina, Abigail, Buma Minoha and Modupe.

She also cherished her four year old brother Alhasan Kamara. The star in the making advice to other young girls ‘Be yourself, go for any good thing you want and don’t give up’.

The church is gifted with dynamic workers, the founding pastor’s wife Mrs Hawa Sesay a trained nurse, a dynamic preacher and also the church’s mother, the women’s leader elder Susan Blaudfurst a former professional athelete, artist and

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a dynamic preacher, the devoted church secretary Ms Kamatu Kamara is also an added strength to the progress of the church.

The men in the church also play important roles in its development .Elders James Harding and Dura Turay make sure the church finances and social contributions are up to date. About three years ago Pastor Edward Sowa from Sierra Leone joined the church as an assistant to the founding Pastor, apart from church duties, this young man makes the welfare of members are paramount.

Pastor Sowa’s wife Mrs Hannah Sowa who is studying in Australia was in London recently. Preaching at one of the Sunday services on a theme ‘nothing changes, if nothing changes. She said , to achieve God’s blessing s, we must change our pattern in life and our commitments with God. Every member of the church plays a part in its development and when young ladies like elders Denese, Alice, Kumba and others delivered their sermons during Sunday services, you know all is not lost for young people and the few male and female youth members contributions to the church’s development, is a clear manifestation that this church is destined to turn lives around in the community.

/ early 2013 of UK 12 20 in s n io ct n fu r fo Dates l Associations oo h Sc n ea on Le ra er Si based

2012 January 22

ool for Girs(FSSG) Freetown Secondary Sch nual Thanksgiving Ex-Pupils Association An Service

May 5

ool(SLGS) ExSierra Leone Grammar Sch r Dance ne Din Pupils Association –

29

ondary Government Technical Sec – Annual ion iat soc School Ex-Pupils As orth lw Wa at e Thanksgiving Servic Methodist Church

February 25

ion – End of Old Edwardians Associat terloo Action Winter Jam Session at Wa don SE1 7AA Centre, Bayliss Road, Lon

6

sociation – St. Joseph’s Ex-Pupils As Thanksgiving Service

26

ion – Dinner

Harford Ex-Pupils Associat Dance

26

ool (MGHS)Old Methodist Girls High Sch al Gala Night Girls Association – Annu National Hotel, (Social Evening) @ Royal London, United Kingdom

June 2

COBA CKC UK – Summer

March 18 (Mothering Sunday)sociation

Annie Walsh Old Girls As Service at St (AWOGA) – Thanksgiving ce (of Clapham Pla tt Peter’s Church, Presco 6EX at 3p.m.

4 SW , High Street, Clapham

October 6 13

14

pils Association Albert Academy (AA) Ex-Pu – Thanksgiving Service

20

ondary School Government Technical Sec ion – Dinner (G.T.S.S) Ex-Pupils Associat Dance

21

ion – Old Edwardians Associat e vic Thanksgiving Ser

27

nce CKC COBA UK – Dinner Da

BBQ

e between CONWARDS (Joint ventur ugural Dance at Edwards & Convent) Ina Centre, Unit the Kingdom Life Ministry ays Qu , London, A1, Quebec Way, Surrey SE16 7LF

ool Old Girl’s Methodist Girls High Sch Sale @ Bells Association – Luncheon am Park road, Community Centre, Peckh ited Kingdom Peckham in London, Un

21

iation(OPWA) Old Prince Walean Assoc La Royale Annual Dinner Dance at ham, N17 8ER ten Tot , Banqueting Suite

28

ondary School.

Government Technical Sec ion – Luncheon (GT.S.S.) Ex-Pupils Associat Sale

10

al Thanksgiving Old Prince Walean Annu Services in BIRMINGHAM

July 8

ool (MGHS) Methodist Girls High Sch anksgiving & Th – Old Girls Association Communion Service

28

ool (MGHS) Old Methodist Girls High Sch Outing Day Girls Association – Family

September

ion – Dinner

Old Edwardians Associat Dance

3

April 14

pils Association

Albert Academy (AA) Ex-Pu – Dinner Dance

ool for Girls (FSSG) Freetown Secondary Sch ner Dance Ex-Pupils Association – Din

November 3

ool (MGHS) Old Methodist Girls High Sch r & Dance Girls Association – Dinne

TBC

iation – Annual

Annie Walsh Old Girl Assoc Dinner Dance

December 1

iation – Dinner

St Joseph’s Ex-Pupils Assoc Dance

1

ool (MGHS) Old Methodist Girls High Sch to France Girls Association – Day trip

2013 February

ion – End of Old Edwardians Associat de 3) Winter Jam Session (Episo

mbuya Compiled By: Ibrahim Du uya, Ll.M, Barrister-At-Law mb Du Copyright – Ibrahim

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 47

champion

Africa Gospel Award Winner church. I didn’t have many people to talk to until one day when I decided to wake up from my sleep to join in the 3am prayer.

During prayers the Pastor told me he had a trance where he saw me singing with a large congregation, and the Lord spoke to him to tell me that he was calling me into an evangelistic ministry.

I said it’s not possible as I wanted to go back to my world of night club promotions as this was what I was doing after becoming Miss Africa UK. I also did a bit of modeling and started charity work. I was in my prime like any young teenager. But I accepted the call in my life and started singing in the church. I never went back to the things and places I used to go. This is why I only do gospel music; I was called to sing for GOD and his people.

Calabash: Give me a brief intro about yourself.

Rebecca: Rebecca is 2011 Africa Gospel Award winner and multiple award nominee, international gospel recording artiste.

Calabash: You are very active in the world of music, what do you do?

Rebecca: I am a gospel singer.

Calabash: Where are you based and how did you get to reside there?

Rebecca: I am based in the United Kingdom.

Calabash: Let’s get down to business, why Gospel music?

Rebecca: I sing gospel songs, not because I want to sing gospel songs, but I was called by God in 2006 when I collapsed and lost my life in a London bus. The Lord miraculously revived me back to life at king’s college hospital where I was told that I was absolutely fine.

My friend came to see me and thought I needed spiritual help because of the state I was in, I ended up in the streets of London without a family and I became homeless with no money. All my friends deserted me; nobody knew where I was then. I went to church where they told me I needed deliverance, so I remained in that church for 3 years sleeping on the church floor, eating leftovers; no money and change of clothes.. I was ignored by everyone in the

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Calabash: How many LPs do you have so far under your belt?

Rebecca: I now have 3 albums under my belt, thanks to God: Titles 1, FIRE 4 FIRE, 2, JESUS CONQUER 3, I BELIEVE. Calabash: What have been your challenges to success?

Rebecca: People sometimes don’t understand my ministry coz I was so young when I started ministry, with the fire and the zeal I had for the gospel of Jesus, but the bible says seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness then all these things shall be added unto you. So my success in ministry is in the hands of GOD. My aim is to win souls for the kingdom.

Calabash: Who is your role model?

Rebecca: My role model is Dr Juanita Bynum, an American preacher who teaches the word of God with power and conviction.

She has motivated me in ministry and I have learnt a lot from her teachings.

Calabash: What gets you out of your bed in the morning?

Rebecca: I look forward to every morning with hope that God will use me to be a blessing in the life of someone

and working with him as he leads me through the day. I am a child of God and he is my father.

Calabash: Who are your target groups when it comes to gospel music?

Rebecca: My target audience or group are the youths and young adults mainly, but I have seen my ministry touching the elderly in such a way that now I know that my ministry has no boundaries because it speaks deliverance, motivation and prophesy in peoples’ lives, and I thank God for that.

Calabash: What avenues are you using to reach Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora and in the Homeland?

Rebecca: The address of my website is www. rebeccaministry.com and this is where you will find all you need to know about my ministry. You can read my Bio, see my pictures, have the opportunity to listen to my songs; you can also buy my cds there and watch my videos. You can find out about up coming events and news.

You can also join me on face book as Rebecca Jesus Conquer 111.

Follow me on twitter as rebeccapraise You can also watch all my recent videos on YouTube – Rebecca, I Believe, and many more.

My Email for inquires and bookings is rebecca@rebeccaministry.com Calabash: Do you sing other music beside gospel?

Rebecca: I don’t sing any other songs apart from Gospel Music.

Calabash: And finally, tell me about your recent release, “I Believe”.

Rebecca: ”I Believe” is my recent album that is on sale now on these online stores: ITunes, Amazon mp3, Tesco Entertainment and many more on line stores for downloading.

You can dance, praise, worship and pray with the songs on this album of 14 great hits that will change your life forever.

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Disability Is Not

Inability Story Kadie Sillah Disability Foundation

Following the spate of discrimination against disabled persons in Sierra Leone recently, a London-based philanthropist Kaidie Sillah has organized the Kadie Sillah Disable Foundation (KSDF) to ameliorate the sufferings of the disabled.

This development has warranted disabled persons within the Freetown Municipality to form themselves into groups to benefit from what they describe as, “a laudable stride to push the interest of the disabled”.

The foundation is poised to look into the lives of the disabled, especially those who are deprived.

Founder of the KSDF Kadie Sillah said the motive of her foundation is to remove the disabled from the streets of Freetown and equip them so that they become self-reliant.

Madam Kadie said disabled persons have the potential to contribute meaningfully in society adding, “After all disability is not inability. If we can equip them they will make better citizens of this country”.

She pointed out, “Many of these disabled persons have expressed optimism over the new disable foundation which they believe will obviously turn things around and better their lives”.

Chairman of the KSDF, Sulaiman Kallon said that based on the concerns for the disabled Madam Kadie had shown very recently, he believed the foundation will change the status quo of the disabled.

Joseph Y Fofanah, a Third Year student of the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) who became disabled at ten said discrimination against the disabled is one of their greatest problems. Joseph said disabled persons find it increasingly difficult and at times impossible to access public building and transportation.

Joseph furthered that now the KSDF has been formed, the onus is on his colleagues to embrace the organization and utilize the facilities offered them.

Chairman of the House of Jesus for the Disabled Alhaji Mansaray said the KSDF is timely, especially when his organization has embarked on lots of activities to capacitate its members. The organization trains its members on gara dyeing, tailoring etc.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 49

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Sierra Leonean Bio Medical Science Graduate Is Crowed Miss Nubian UK 2011

Miss Nubian Pageants attributes the growth of their brand since it inception 3 years ago on their ability to successfully redefine the concept of Pageants and change the public negative perception associated with traditional Pageants.

Unlike traditional pageants that mainly focus on beauty, Miss Nubian Pageants selection criteria ensures that finalists selected not only exude intelligence, confidence, beauty and compassion for those living in the Diaspora but they also need to posses qualities befitting of a Queen and on Sat 29th Oct 2011 that’s exactly what 22 year old, talented, bio-medical graduate and aspiring dentist managed to do.

In a bid to beat off the stiff competition from the other 11, the beautiful Fatoumata wowed both the crowd and the esteem panel of judges that included Funmi O, CEO of Mink

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Cosmetics, Fashion Designer Adebayo Jones, Award Winning Film Producer Obi and Former Aston Villa, Liverpool and England Footballer and now Youth Coach, Mark Walters.

The competition kicked off with the Traditional wear round. To the sheer delight of other Sierra Leoneans and Fatoumata’s family and friends, she wore a poignant ensemble of fabrics, head wear and jewellery synonymous with her cultural heritage .

Having a marketable talent

One of the prizes for the overall winner was to be managed for a year so there was no doubt that Fatoumata had something extra to pull out of the bag. When the eastern inspired beats began to play, all wondered exactly what her talent was.

When she graced the stage in a veil which resembled Asian attire and performed a definitely unexpected yet fantastic, authentic, hip shaking belly dance the crowds applauded and some even stood in awe.

The next round was aptly titled the Sunsational Wear round and unlike Traditional Pageants, Bikinis / Swimsuits are not allowed. Instead the Finalist showcased outfits that did not expose their body parts that would otherwise be exposed with outfits such swimwear. Fatoumata chose an outfit that was Uber Complementary of her fabulous figure and her velvety chocolate skin tone.

During the penultimate evening wear round, their was a momentary gasp of amazement by the onlookers followed by mass applause when she stepped onto the stage robed in her diamante embellished dress clearly oozing sheer sophistication, grace elegance and style.

After clearly impressing the audience with her external qualities it now came to the Final round where the well spoken Fatoumata conveyed to all the culmination of her exemplary levels of cultural awareness, pride in her Sierra Leonean heritage , intellect, compassion for others and ambassadorial potential.

After a final performance by headlining act on the night , sister Trio - Shiikane ,it was results time and after several minutes of suspense Fatoumata managed to clinch the overall converted title and in a state of shock and euphoria she was crowned Miss Nubian UK 2011.

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Its as been a busy 2 months for Fatoumata since she was crowned , so we were therefore thrilled when her agent and Miss Nubian Pageant Director ,Jacqueline Wabara managed to schedule time out of Fatoumata’s very busy schedule for Calabash to interview her.

Calabash: So Fatoumata, it’s been less than 4 months since you were crowned Miss Nubian UK 2011, how has the title changed your life ?

Fatoumata: It’s truly been a journey and after winning I was so ecstatic! My life has been so much more interesting since, it’s given me the chance to be a more outgoing person who is not afraid to put myself out there. I’ve been able to meet new people and make new networks and learn new things about myself and about life in general!

Calabash: What does the title mean to you?

Fatoumata: The title gives a great opportunity to act as a spokes person for my country and allows me to promote Sierra Leone and highlight the issues that are closest to my heart; which are education and healthcare. The title gives me the chance to express my sense of identity and represents the pride that I have for my country.

Calabash: How did you feel when your name was called out as the overall winner?

Fatoumata: I had a mixture of emotions, from jubilation, to shock and then to euphoria all over again. I felt truly happy and I would love to live that moment over and over again.

Calabash: You had to compete in several rounds during the Grand Finale. What were they?

Fatoumata: There were 5 rounds which included, traditional, talent, evening wear and question and answer. My favourite round was the talent round. My talent was belly dancing and I had so much fun doing it.

Calabash: How long have you been dancing for?

Fatoumata: It’s quite a recent thing I was introduced to belly dancing at university when I auditioned for a part in a university talent show and was accepted. I’ve been interested in belly dancing since.

Calabash: What round did you enjoy best and why?

Fatoumata: Like I said before the talent round was my favourite; however I also enjoyed the traditional round as I got to

wear one of my country’s most traditional wear, the raffia (a type of African tribal wear, most African countries have their own version of it ). It was quite unique because none of the other contests had anything similar.

Calabash: You proudly represented Sierra Leone in Miss Nubian UK 2011, have you travelled their before?

Fatoumata: Yes I have recently in 2008, it was quite an interesting experience, and the country is well on its way to recovery postcivil war. It was also great seeing old friends and family.

Calabash: How will you use your role to benefit the Sierra Leone Communities both here and back home?

Fatoumata: I would love to continue to represent my country by raising awareness of the issues that affect the most vulnerable people in Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone is still recovering from a civil war where many negative events occurred. What I want to do is highlight the many positive things that are being done to aid recovery. 2012 is a year of many opportunities and I’m looking forward to using my title to positively influence and support those living in the diaspora who are less fortunate.

Calabash: Have you any particular areas of charity work that interest you and why?

Fatoumata: Child Healthcare is a topic really close to my heart as Sierra Leone to date as one of the highest infant mortality rates in Africa but surprisingly has only 1 children’s hospital in the whole country. Education is also an area of concern to me because it truly does move you from the darkness and into the light. It gives you a sense of freedom since no one can take away what you know! It is truly the way forward as it is one of the key factors in eradicating poverty.

I’m interested in issues of education and healthcare and I’m hoping to work with charities such as SOS children’s Village; Building homes and communities for children in need, children orphaned by factors such as civil war and famine. I’m also looking forward working with a charity called the wellington family project; which

is involved in working with people in Wellington Freetown addressing issues of healthcare, education and sports. What’s great about this charity is that it also promotes social cohesion by organizing inter area sports and cultural performances so that everyone in the community is involved!

I am also supporting UK based charity called Strette Child South Africa.

Calabash: So what events have you been to since being crowned?

Fatoumata: One of the first events I attended after winning was my very own homecoming dinner and dance which was great. Since then I’ve been red ribbon model for the charity ‘Positive runway stop the spread’ on world AIDS day: which is a global charity involved in educating young people about HIV/AIDS using role models such as actors, singers and pageant queens. Most recently I attended a fundraising fashion in support for the get London reading campaign and also the launching of the new positive runway online magazine. I was given the honour of presenting the flowers to the designers at the end of the fashion show! info@MissNubianPageants.com for more information www.missnubianpageants.com Join or Facebook(add FB Logo) Group www. facebook.com/missnubianpageants.com And follow us on Twitter add twitter logo@ Miss Nubian Well, that concludes the interview and the Calabash team says thank you and looks forward to catching up with you later in the year. We wish you good luck during and after your reign.

Thank you.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 51

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Gershon Ward-Anderson “Music spread thy voice around”

G

ershon Ward-Anderson was born in Freetown Sierra Leone into a Christian family where music was given prominence (especially choral/classical).

His dad, the Rev Gershon Anderson (deceased) was a hymn writer and he was once described as the John Wesley of his time.

His granddad George Anderson was a prominent bass singer in one of the top choirs in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Both his dad and granddad were great inspiration to Gershon who showed his love for music at a very early stage.

He started as a treble boy in Buxton Memorial Methodist Church Choir (one of the best choirs in Sierra Leone). He owes a lot to the late Lloyd Beckley (organist at Buxton Church) and the late Moses J D Macauley (who was once choir master at Buxton Church) for their contributions in supporting him develop his talent. Gershon later became one of the choir’s most impressive alto soloists. As a teenager he also developed the interest in and his love for the gospel genre and has since sung with various gospel groups both in Sierra Leone and in the UK. In 1985, he joined a popular choral group in Freetown - The Deep Harmony Choral Group which was under the directorship of Mr. Aubrey Nat-Jones. Mr. Nat-Jones was also one of Gershon’s mentors. Gershon continued to develop his talent and excelled himself to the point were he was held as one of the best counter tenor singers Sierra Leone has ever produced. Given the opportunity, he will demonstrate that his unique pedigree can rank among the very best in the world.

Gershon is an accountant by profession.

He came to the UK in 1991 to continue his

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accountancy training. At present he is the Finance Administrator for Blind Aid, an organisation providing services to people with visual impairment in London. Gershon is married to Daphne, “the best woman in the world” he said, and they are blessed with two lovely girls.

His desire to succeed in the UK through hard work has not diluted his love for music though; in fact his love for the art has intensified. He is a founder member of a male voice choir in London – the Leoa Academic Male Voice Choir and also sings with his local church choir – The Walworth Methodist Church Choir where he served as choir master for six years.

He has sung with a number of different choirs both at home and abroad and has performed in various venues in the UK including Westminster Abbey, The Westminster Central Hall, Southwark Cathedral, & Rochester Cathedral. He has also performed in Germany.

In August last year during his visit to Australia, he was asked to open a gospel concert by the Watoto children from Uganda.

This concert was part of their 2011 world tour which took place in Belmont, Newcastle Australia.

Gershon is an impressive singer with an admirable voice range. This rare talent, his experience and versatility have enabled him adapt easily to different genres and styles of singing. This is evident from his album releases, concerts and other live performances.

He is very proud to say that he comes from a very loving and caring family. This coupled with his Christian upbringing, has helped him in life and in coping with stresses that come with it, especially here in the UK. As most people will know you do not come to the UK hoping to succeed if you are lazy and Gershon is not an exception. His achievements to date are attributed to his determination and hard work but above all because of his belief in and fear of God. In 1998 Gershon was offered the opportunity to perform a lead role in a presentation of Sound of Music with The Brixton Musical and Dramatic Society; but unfortunately could not carry out the role as he lost his dad two weeks before the show was to be staged and he had to travel home for the funeral. In addition to the above, he gives solo recitals at various venues and celebrations on request.

Above: Duet with Cecil Jones at Easter Musical Concert, 2011.

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Up until 2007 Gershon only sang on a hard hoc basis. Almost after every performance he would be approached by people who thought he was a professional singer and asking for copies of recorded works. He said that he sometimes felt a little embarrassed that he had nothing to show for his talent but on the other hand he considered it a privilege to be thought of as a professional singer; “All those people can’t be wrong. It shows that I have what it takes” he said. So in 2007 after several persuasions by family members, fans, well wishers and also after careful thought Gershon, decided to take his love of singing to another level.

In 2007 he released his debut album entitled ‘He’s a wonder’. This is a five track album specifically intended to experiment on merging classical and gospel sound in one album and it was done in a lower than usual tonality. He again apologized to those fans who were expecting the usual counter tenor voice which as he himself confessed came naturally to him.

It was his experience of gospel & classical music which gave him the inspiration to experiment with different ideas. In this album he tried to bring the two together with a bit of African flavor especially tracks 4 & 5. He says that this is an album worth listening to as it caters for a wide range of moods. The album was recorded and mastered at De Champ Studios. He is very grateful to Collins Pratt for his immense contribution to this album. His input has given the album an extra ‘humph’ which makes it unique. Gershon says Collins has given to this album what he knows best. He also has a DVD version of this album which was released in 2008. The filming was done in Sierra Leone and produced by Prince 4 Studios in Freetown.

His second audio album entitled ‘He walks with me’ was released in January 2009. This album was recorded at Pilgrim Studio in Sierra Leone. Gershon said that he

was amazed with this production especially the recording, mixing and mastering stages. This was because it was produced by a wonderful musician known as Jonny Wisdom who is blind. All the instrumental tracks were played by him and he did the mixing and mastering with the help of his sound engineer. Gershon was really impressed that despite limited resources and more, so given his physical constraints in the nature of his sight impairment, he was able to do such an amazing job. This left him to imagine what he would have done if he had ‘the state of the art’ equipments at his disposal. Gershon decided therefore to donate 10% of all sales to the Milton Margai School for the Blind Association which is a UK charity set up to support the Milton Margai School, the school which Johnny Wisdom attended.

As you would have figured out Gershon is akin to charitable causes. His first attempt at a concert was in 1999 when he organized a Christmas concert and the outcome was very encouraging. The funds raised were donated to Christian Aid. Over the past four years he has been able to organize Easter musical concerts every Good Friday dobbed ‘Come Journey with Christ’. He sees this as an opportunity to show case himself and also other talented musicians and performers who would benefit from the exposure. It has now become a very popular yearly ‘must not miss’ event. The performances and professionalism of the show has always been of a very high standard and as such should not be missed. The first concert in 2008 was held at the St John’s Church Peckham in London and the subsequent ones were held at the Walworth Methodist Church in London. Attendance at all of these concerts has been very good and improving each year. This year’s event will again be held at the Walworth Methodist Church but Gershon is seriously thinking of securing a bigger venue as the capacity in Walworth Church is

now proving limited for the demand.

Last year he released the DVD of one of the live Easter Concerts and he is encouraging everyone to get a copy especially those who have not attended any of the concerts. Funds from this DVD will go towards the work at the Christian Faith Rescue Orphanage in Sierra Leone.

To date Gershon has used his concerts to raise over £4,000.00 for various charities such as: Christian Aid, Save the Children & Christian Faith Rescue Orphanage.

Beneficiaries from other generated funds include: The UK Charity for the Milton Margai School for the Blind, Premier Christian Radio, Compassion and Passion Outreach International and Walworth Methodist Church. All of these charities are grateful to all those who have contributed towards the donations which they have received. Gershon is very grateful to Almighty God for giving him a gift that he can in turn use to help others.

He is very dedicated to singing, and his releases, concerts and other live performances are testaments to that desire of communicating through music. His love for singing would be likened to fish and water. If you take away singing from him, it will be like taking fish away from water.

May he continue to enrich our senses with his delightful voice!

For more information about Gershon and any of his products please call 07984578414 or send an email to gershonward@ btinternet.com You can also visit his website at www.gershonward.co.uk where you can purchase any of his products online by downloading or requesting it by post.

Gershon can also be contacted through the Walworth Methodist Church 54 Camberwell Road, London SE5 0EN.

Escorting a blind lady after performing at one of ‘BlindAid’s’ annual celebrations.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 53

DeRoyal Hall for Hire Our recently refurbished DeRoyal banqueting Hall at Phibbs House, 239 king Henry’s Drive, New Addington is a fully functioning air-conditioned venue that is available for hire and can host up to 300 guests (500 guests for conferences that needs no tables). The venue is conveniently situated off Kent Gateway, Addington and affords multiple forms of transportation.

(*Parties are welcomed dependent on type, number of guests and a few other considerations therefore please discuss your requirements with us before booking).

PRICE: £150 PER

For more information please contact our office on 001689 845 566 or 07916 255 514

DeRoyal Hall can be used for: ■ Receptions ■ Wedding Receptions ■ Conferences/Meetings ■ Seminars ■ Workshops ■ Parties* ■ Rehearsals and Plays

DIARY

Peggy Joe explain to Calabash whether it is cheaper in marrying your love one in the mother land read the interview in our next issue.

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Sierra Leonean can not only boast of precious minerals as we continue to rank among the best in the world in producing it, hope it is benefiting all but we are climbing up on the world ranking on beautiful gem. Read the interview in our next issue as Miss University tells Calabash how precious is the Land that we all love.

Sierra Leonean lady made mayor in London to honour Sierra Leone Golden Jubilee and she excels well Read next Issue

The rebirth of the Ex-pupils of Young Women’s Christian Association United Kingdom: Calabash meets the ladies behind the uniform: read in our next issue

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MMelqosh mission foundation Micah 4:7 And I will make her that halted, a remnant and her that was cast off a strong nation.

Melqosh Mission was founded by Faith Okrafo-Smart and the team is made up of dynamic and aspiring people in the diaspora who are committed to impact the lives of the poor and needy in Sierra Leone and abroad.

Everyone deserves the right to excel in life, a healthy life, whether one is disabled or not. Unfortunately, though we all deserve a chance to succeed, people with disabilities lack access to basic social services and economic opportunities. The odds are stacked against people with disabilities in the developing world. People with disabilities represent a large share of the population in the developing world, one that is excluded, isolated and dependant on others.

Disability and Poverty go together. Case studies from Sierra Leone and other low income countries suggest that people with disabilities are over represented among the poorest and are severely socially excluded.

They are less likely to get out of poverty compared with other groups.

Although extremely rich in natural resources, Sierra Leone remains among one of the poorest countries in the world. 70% of the population are living below poverty line, 26% are classified as extremely poor with the majority categorised as physically challenged.

Life expectancy is 39 years whilst health and education indicators are among the lowest in the world. The war inflicted a heavy toll on human capital, ten years of war ravaged Sierra Leone with approximately 20,000 people dead, 2 million displaced and some 27,000 registered amputees according to UN Analysis. Many amputees in the provinces are not registered due to lack of access to auditing.

Sierra Leone has signed the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities and its human rights strategy includes safeguards for people with disabilities.

However, it has not yet put what it has promised in international conventions and

its constitution into practice. In post conflict Sierra Leone, people with disabilities and amputations (attributed to the methodical dismemberment of civilians during one of Africa’s bloodiest war, which resulted in thousands of innocents losing hands, arms, legs) are more marginalised. Exclusion from services, community activities and productive opportunities increase the risk for people with disabilities and post conflict amputations. Consequently, they will continue to stay in poverty or fall into extreme poverty if intervention is not implemented, thereby creating a vicious web of acute underclass for generations unborn.

MELQOSH MISSION ‘s vision is to implement development strategies for education, health , trade and employment specifically for physically challenged and post war afflicted amputees in Sierra Leone. With access to these services , the beneficiaries will have coveted opportunities that we all deserve and a chance to articulate in productive activities, thereby becoming successful, not only for themselves but for the development of Sierra Leone.

MISSION STATEMENT: “Train A Physically Challenged Girl and You Train A Destiny-Carrier of Tomorrow”

SYNOPSIS Melqosh means Latter Rain in Hebrew.

The seed of Melqosh Mission was conceived in November 2004 and its vision is to help women with both emotional and physical ailments; to gather girls and women that are lame and strengthen them - they are the target population or beneficiaries of this project. The beneficiaries are girls and women who had their limbs forcibly and wickedly amputated by the rebels in the course of one of Africa’s bloodiest civil wars in Sierra Leone.

One of the barbaric and abominable haunts of the blood- hungry rebels was the methodical

dismemberment of civilians, which resulted in thousands of innocents losing hands, arms, legs, and feet from the swing of an axe or machete; even children were not exempted from these gruesome amputations.

The ten-year war ended a decade ago but the consequences of these committed atrocities and barbarity are ever so present in the lives of plenty. The war may be over but the results of its destruction pervade the country and its victims and they need to be addressed. The other females are those who became disabled due to birth defects or illnesses such as polio, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and paralysis attributed to accidents etc. These girls and women are rejects of society; no future, no dreams or opportunities; just barely living under the hospices of family or relatives.

In Sierra Leone, the able-bodied women find it difficult to earn a living hence the high rate of prostitution. If life for the able-bodied women is so bleak, imagine what it is for physically challenged women.

The mission is to teach and train post war afflicted amputee and physically challenged girls and women in the provinces (who have no education, training or social capital or opportunity. Because these women have had no education we will have to give them elementary education with English (Literacy) and Mathematics (Numeracy). Other Subjects to be taught are, Computer Studies, Music, and Literature etc. Vocational Training will include Sewing, Knitting, Garment Dyeing and other arts and crafts. Life skills such as interpersonal skills, communication skills, negotiation skills, cooperation skills, team- work skills, decision-making skills, critical thinking skills, self-management skills etc. In addition to provide mentoring, counselling, and Medicare facilities for the beneficiaries, thus providing extensive help and support.

Melqosh Mission will be holding a Celebration of Peace Concert on Monday 4th of June2012 in Honour of Sierra Leone’s 10th Anniversary of Peace. Our confirmed artistes include, Award winning Rapper, poet and storyteller, Mr Alim Kamara, Renowned John Gbla, Award winning Gospel Artiste Rebecca Arthur, Renowned Collins Pratt,Award winning Storyteller Usifu Jalloh, Lady Matto, Chris Vidal, Danny and the UK Female Artists. Guest artistes are Michael Pounds and Nevaeh’s Angel, Sounds of Tehilla, Dusty Odhiri. MC for the event will be Sierra Leonean TV Presenter/ Talkshow Host, Praise Sam Jolly Asemota.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 55

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7 Reasons why you’re Still Single!!

If you’re in the market to find that special someone, but true love seems to constantly elude you, there are several reasons why you might not be attracting Mr Right.

From low self-esteem through to too high expectations, women in particular are experts when it comes to jeopardising potential relationships before they’ve even had a chance to get off the ground. The good news is that there is something you can do about it…

You’re not trying: You may enjoy spending every evening at home in front of the telly, but if that’s the case you have no grounds for complaints about not having a boyfriend. Funnily enough, Mr Perfect isn’t hiding under your bed waiting for the right time to sweep you off your comfy slipper-clad feet. If you want to find him, you’re going to have to put yourself out there. Yes, that means getting up off the sofa and socialising.

The occasional night in watching the box is fine, just as long as you’re making the most of your social network and mingling as much as possible the rest of the time.

You’re too fussy: Happily married author of romantic fiction Jenny Colgan has some expert insight for those of you with a long and detailed checklist against which every potential lover must be measured. “Great long-term relationships aren’t made from interests in common, political allegiance, shared belief systems or hobbies. They’re made from people being thoughtful about one another. Little things help like, emptying the dishwasher, listening to their day, saying please and thank you, and treating them as you would anyone you really liked and admired. It’s easier to say ‘I’d walk over broken glass for you’ than it is to take the bins out every night.” So ditch the checklist and start dating with an open-mind.

You’re too busy to date: If you’re serious about finding love, you have to stop hiding behind excuses like ‘I’ haven’t got time to date.” Or “I’m too busy with work.” Is your job really so time-consuming that you genuinely can’t spare the time to go out for a quick drink with someone new?

It sounds more like you may be using your super-hectic lifestyle as a buffer to avoid potential intimacies. Slow down and make time for dating instead of using work as the reason not to face your fear of dating.

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You’re a pessimist: It may sound harsh, but you shouldn’t be dating at all if you’re just going through the motions with a negative “I’ll never meet anyone” attitude. So you’ve had a few bad dates, and faced rejection. It’s all part of the ups and downs of dating and you need to be strong enough to brush it off and not become disillusioned. Take a more positive approach to meeting new people. After all, if you don’t believe there’s someone out there for you, you’re never going to find him.

You’re trying too hard: Being too invested in finding the ‘one’ is a common mistake among women.

Devoting all your time and energy to your true love search may seem like a project worthy of your full attention, but you could come off looking desperate. And being overly keen to get coupled-up may also lead you to settling for less than you deserve. Keep up with other interests, see friends, pursue hobbies and get involved with things because you genuinely get something out of them not just because you think they’re the path to finding true love.

You’re unapproachable: If you surround yourself with a gaggle of girlfriends whenever you’re out, the man of your dreams is unlikely to fight his way through the crowd to ask you out. If you’re out on the pull, it’s better to go out in a smaller group of one or two friends so it’s easier for you to get noticed and approached. Similarly if you walk around with your headphones on, or always have your nose in a book, you’re unwittingly switching off potential avenues for being approached and asked out. Leave your iPod at home for a change, step out of your personal bubble and engage with the world around you. Make yourself more approachable by smiling at strangers, making eye-contact, and maybe even striking up a conversation.

You’re hung up on your ex: If you find yourself talking a lot about your previous relationship when you’re out on a date, it means you’re probably not ready to be dating yet. Ex-talk is never attractive to a potential partner and negative talk about former loves may end up showing you in a less than flattering light. Make yourself a rule never to bring up the subject of former partners and stick to it. Even if you’re asked about it, there’s always a way to brush the ex-talk aside.

Is Money Your Master or Your Servant?

Do you suffer from money sickness syndrome? Reportedly, this condition afflicts a large percentage of the world’s population.

But what really is it?

Dr Roger Henderson, a mental health researcher in the United Kingdom, recently coined the term “Money sickness syndrome” to designate the physical and psychological symptoms experienced by people who are stressed with money worries. Henderson reports,”the symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, skin rashes, and lack of appetite, unjustified anger, nervousness, and negative thinking. Money worries are a significant cause of stress.”

It should come as no surprise that during recent months more and more people have fallen victim to ill effects of money related anxieties. The current financial crises in many countries have resulted in the loss of jobs, homes, and personal savings on a global scale. Large financial institutions have collapsed, and even the wealthiest nations have adopted emergency measures to prevent total financial ruin. In the developing world the rising cost of food and other basic commodities have also caused much anxiety.

Money woes are also common in times of abundance. During recent years of financial prosperity, many people have been plagued by money worries. For instance, The Witness, a South African newspaper, reported that a creeping social disease of over-consumption, commercialism and rampant materialism was spreading in Africa. The newspaper listed some of the symptoms of this “disease” including “stress, debt, waste, and overwork, feelings of deprivation, envy, greed and depression” Money was blamed for the ongoing deterioration of the quality of human life in Africa.

Prior to the recent financial crunch, India underwent a period of outstanding economic growth. India Today International reported that 2007 was a year when the country fastforwarded to a new level of consumption “Yet, at the time, officials there were afraid that India’s prosperity would result in increased unrest and even violence.

During that same period too, a new generation of young adults in the United States were displaying a propensity for splurging on luxury items. However, their spending power was not bringing them happiness. Researchers stated that affluence was one of the principal causes of alcoholism, depression and suicide there. One study revealed that despite the abundance and wealth, “less than one in three Americans” claimed to be “very happy”

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The Other Side of the Coin On the other hand, in good times and bad times, many people – both rich and poor -are relatively free of anxieties about money and materials possessions. Why the difference?

In a report entitled “The Meaning of Money”, the researchers observed that some people are “highly motivated and controlled by money. This may lead to stress and neuroticism.”

In contrast, they added: those who budget their money carefully tend to have internal locus of control and positive feelings towards themselves.

They are the masters of money and not slaves of money.....

We assert that those who budget their money carefully may also have lower stress, and thereby, lower strain.

What is your attitude towards money?

How does the volatile nature of the world’s economy affect you? Is money your master or your servant? Perhaps you do not experience the symptoms of so-called money sickness syndrome.

Still, whether wealthy or poor we are all vulnerable to the ill effects of money worries. Consider how adjustments in the way you handle your finances may bring you more peace of mind and happier life.

Calabash Agony Aunty letters To be educated or not to be educated?

That is the question?

Q: Dear Aunty, I live in Freetown and currently attend college. Like most of my peers, attending and completing college/ university is a great achievement. But, for the past months, I have begun to question if all my efforts (both financially and educationally) to remain in college is worth it.

Like many of my friends; finding the money to pay fees is difficult and I sometimes wonder if it is worth it because many of my friends, who have left college/ university, are still unemployed and struggling.

I’m in my last year of college and wonder if there is any point in trying to find money to

pay for university or if should just look for manual labour employment once I am done.

A: All over the world the connection between education and the labour market is a hot topic of debate. I completely understand the difficulty that many individuals face finding money to pay high school fees; only to find themselves unemployed for up to a year or more.

As attractive and rational leaving education early (to get a job) appears, I would still advise that if funds are available, to pay for further education, continue learning.

There is a quote that says ‘knowledge is power’ and indeed it is. Sierra Leone is developing and more people are investing into the labour market. As time goes on, more national and international investment will continue expanding the labour market.

Employers look for those that are qualified, so put your self in the running and keep on learning. I once heard that: Outside the bedroom window may be dark, but once the hand on the clock touches the number 12, it is another day. Don’t look at your now look to your tomorrow determined and in faith that you will reap all the hard work and sacrifice that you sowed into your education.

A tough year Q: Dear Aunty, 2011 was one of the toughest years of my life.

In December 2010 I got married; it was the happiest day of my life. Married life started well and by February I was pregnant. Sadly I lost the baby but my husband and family were very supportive and we vowed to try again. So to both our joy, I fell pregnant again but 4 months in I lost the baby. I thought that my husband and his family would be supportive but they weren’t and started blaming me for the two miscarriages. My husband and I became distant, until one day, he mentioned that we needed some time apart.

He’s currently moved out of our home and I don’t hear from him regularly. My mum keeps telling me that I should take courage because this horrible season in my life will pass, but will it? I’m depressed, lonely, disappointed in my husband and angry at him and his family’s ignorance towards the miscarriages.

A: Going through any sort of loss is a horrible experience, but to loose a life that was growing inside of you is that bit more painful. It is totally acceptable for you to feel disappointed in your husband. This is because, when you both took your vows you both made a promise to support one another through the hardest periods in your marriage and a miscarriage is no exception.

My advice to you would be to speak with your immediate family and don’t internalise

any pain that you are feeling. Bottling up your emotions will do you no good but will intensify any depression that you are experiencing. If you are currently living alone in the house, consider moving back home with your parents. If this is not possible, get a close friend to come and stay with you at home, even if for a few days so that you are not alone. This is because, not only are your mourning the loss of an unborn child but also the potential loss of your marriage.

Try your best to continue with life and don’t sit dwelling on what has happened. This doesn’t mean that you ignore the reality of your situation, but you can’t allow your situation to pull you back into depression.

You will regain your strength again and you will be well. But it takes small steps, that you must take, away from your feelings of anger and disappointment in order for you to be ok.

Wedding hat?!

Q: Dear Aunty, I’m feed-up. I’m 25 and all my mum keeps going on about is where my boyfriend is and when we’ll be getting married. It’s not that I don’t want a boyfriend i just don’t see why she is so concerned that I haven’t brought anyone home since my break-up 2 years ago.

Guys ask me out and I have been on a few dates, but as I have gotten older, I don’t feel the need to waste my time with men who are not what I want in a husband.

How do I stay calm when she keeps nagging me, or am I weird for being single for 2 years?!

A: Mums start to worry when their children, especially girls, hit 25 and there is no sight of a potential husband-to-be. But don’t let this be a major concern of yours. It seems that you are quite a level headed individual and you are right in saying that you want to only date men who exemplify what you want in a husband. There are some criteria’s that I don’t believe individuals should compromise on such as faith and moral values.

My only advice to you would be, don’t be too rigid in your idea of what your ‘perfect’ husband should be like. Many times out Prince Charming is not initially packaged according to our understanding, but once you have taken time out to speak with him, you begin to see potential. I’m not advocating that you run around town kissing hundreds of frogs before you find Prince Charming, but I am saying that you should remain open-minded.

Next time your mum mentions this issue, just smile and remind her not to worry and explain to her that you are interested in a relationship but all in good time.

Good luck, and when the married does happen, I want my invite and enough notice to sew my Ashobi!

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AK

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A Short film

Directed by Michael Chandler and Starring Julian Sandi

«AK» is a short drama about a young Sierra Leonean guy, who lived through the conflict as both victim and perpetrator, and now finds himself in a foreign land, England, as a student. Lost and alienated and surrounded by sympathetic people who really don›t have any understanding of what he has experienced, AK›s mind starts to blur the lines between the past, the present and his inner demon, seen menacingly always just out of reach in the corner of AK›s eye.

AK slowly loses grip on reality and our insight into his past is revealed through phone calls home to his sister, FA. But one morning, following a run in with some youth the night before, AK reads of a double murder in the newspaper and fears that he is responsible. His demon torments him as it manifest into AK’s home. AK found courage and faced the demon...

“AK” is written and directed by Michael Chandler who first went to Sierra Leone in 2007. AK is an amalgam of people he met.

Michael...”I was inspired by the stories I was told, the aspirations, hopes and positivity of many people I met despite the troubles

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they had been through. They seemed to have much more of a community, a joint psychology, and a social support given everyone had been through similar hardships. I wanted to explore how that could change for someone who is suddenly in a less social, more isolating place such as London. As Julian says, AK is a good man inside but finding it very hard in a different society, and I wanted to look at how, despite London being seen as a place of opportunity, it can also be very difficult for individuals on their own.”

AK is played by Julian Sandi, a Sierra Leonean Actor, Model, and Musician.

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Julian says...

«When I first read the script for “AK”, I felt a strong connection with the main character (AK). I also felt that playing this role would feel natural to me, because although my past experiences are not the same, I could relate to his challenges such as adjusting to a new society and culture. AK is a good man, but like most people he has a demon to fight. AK’s biggest challenge is overcoming regrets from the past and I believe a lot of people can relate to that. I’m glad director Michael Chandler allowed this character to be authentic by giving the lead role to a Sierra Leonean and including his native language in the script. Acting for screen is one of my greatest passions. « FA (AK’s sister) is played by Nellie Sama who has actually experienced the conflict in Freetown with her family and as a young girl.

Nellie Sama... “Playing AK’s sister reminds me of my older sister who is based in Sierra Leone. There are many times I have had similar conversations with her like the one’s I had with AK in the film. She has often encouraged me to persevere through the challenges of being in a foreign land. And my sister is always reminding me of the struggles back home and the importance of maximizing the opportunity I’ve had to study in UK. Overcoming the memories of the conflict was not easy. However, I am grateful to God for protecting me and my family. As Julian once said, ‘I feel responsible to make a positive change in my country’.

I believe that this film can make a positive

impact n the lives of many Sierra Leonean Youths back home and overseas. This film tells a true story of what some people have and are experiencing alone in a foreign land.

I would like to encourage anyone who is in a similar situation like AK’s... to be strong and be courageous. It’s possible to achieve that good dream which you are working towards.”

There are many genuine unique things about this film (AK). For instance, the production company, (Wilderness Production) are a team of people who have been making

a positive change in the lives of Youths in Sierra Leone through their charity organisation Way Out. Way Out was founded in 2007 with a clear goal- to support conflict affected young people, refugees, and street youths using the Arts and Digital media. In 2010 Way Out worked with 600 young people amongst them residents of the Kissy Town Refugee Settlement. They ran a variety of courses including writing, drama, and documentary making, on subjects as diverse as street life, teenage pregnancy, and HIV. These films reached audiences of 35,000 people.

“AK” includes some amazing dancing and acting from young people from the Think Big project in Newham – several of them also originating from African backgrounds.

Kevin and Junior, bring an energetic and diverse street dance style to the film, known as ‘Krumping’ - a high energy free styling dance that originated in the African American community in California. The acronym KRUMP stands for Kingdom Radically Uplifted Mighty Praise. It is an aggressive style of dancing which is said to release anger and evil spirits from a possessed person.

«AK» is packed with intense action, drama, suspense, powerful elements and strong messages.

AK is film that many people could relate to.

Look out for “AK” in film festivals.

Get more updates on “AK” by joining the face book page (AK- Short film) and the website for more information www.akshortfilm. com. The trailer will be online soon.

For information on Julian Sandi www. juliansandi.com Join him on Face book- Julian Sandi or Julian Sound.

issue nine | Calabash Magazine | 59

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A shower of Snow

While the man in a military uniform was saying, ‘I Do1’ as they were sharing their vows, the snow was pouring down, icing their union.

It was so snowy that the roads and pavements were very slippery for anyone to walk on, but the Bride and Bridegroom braved the day to share the joy of wedlock.

He was an experienced bullet diver who used to dive bullets either in Afghanistan or wherever he was assigned for duty, but he was unable to dive the marriage bullet from Susan.

The reception was quite a modest one held at the rather quiet part of Sydenham in London, United Kingdom. The guests braved the cold and slippery roads to attend the reception. Cars were skidding and people were slipping and falling on the pavement as they made their way

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to the reception hall. Nevertheless, the bond of love and patient gave them the courage and perseverance to join in the wedding celebration.

Dressed in a white fairy tale wedding dress which blended with the white snow, the bride looked like an African Queen. The husband, who was robed in a United States of America ceremonial military uniform, guided his beautiful queen into to hall.

The hall was decorated by the professional decorator of Tutu balloons Ltd and music was supplied by Victor& co. The dinner an African buffet served with some of the best wines.

As usual in a wedding ceremony the speeches and toasts reflected on how the relationship came into existence and families background.

tribute

Tribute to the late retired Col A O Kamara Husband, father & friend Great men don’t die, because their great works live after them. This is true regarding the late Retired Colonel Alhaji Alimamy Osman Kamara, fondly known to his many relatives and friends as A O Kamara, who peacefully passed away in Freetown on 15th September 2011 aged 80 He was born at No 10 Magburaka Road, Makeni town in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone. He attended the American Wesleyan Mission School in Makeni. After leaving school he joined the Sierra Leone Armed Forces at the age of 20 and moved up through the ranks.

After thirteen years going through the ranks, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant. The late Retired colonel served in various Divisions of the Armed Forces In 1977 he was in command of the military battalion at Teko in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone and in 1985 was posted to the Army Training School in Benguema on the outskirts of Freetown.

With other dedicated officers, he devoted his time and energy to the training of fine men and women soldiers, some of whom are still serving as dedicated officers in the Sierra Leone Armed Forces today.

This was a man who had everything in life: power, wealth. prestige, honour… name the good things of life, he had them all. But he was also a man who was always willing to give everything for the love of his country.

Those who knew him well can testify to his generosity and his courageous stand at the time the Armed Forces were going through much turbulence with coups and counter coups. He stood out as one of most loyal soldiers to his country.

After 38 years of active unblemished service he retired from the Armed Forces and in 1992 was appointed as an Adviser to the International Meridian Bank. A year later he was he was appointed Minister for Internal and Rural Affairs.

In 1996 he was appointed an Expatriate to the Republic of the Gambia. After a period of four years, he returned to Sierra Leone and was elected as a Member of the Sierra Leone Parliament. He served as a member of Parliament for two terms and was a member of the Sierra Leone Mining Board.

The late Retired A.O Kamara was always willing to serve his country in any capacity.

He also played a very formidable role in the process of re-establishing peace after the war in the country.

Always smiling, here was a humble, calm and very patient individual who showed respect to all he encountered, both young and old. He was also something of a perfectionist who could not stand mediocrity. He will be sadly missed.

Tribute –the late Muriel Elizabeth Shaw (nee Williams) Ag Principal Methodist Girls High The late Muriel Elizabeth Shaw was an outstanding educationist and a loyalist to her alma mater, the Methodist Girls High school in Freetown, Sierra Leone, she lived and died serving.

Born on the 3rd of May 1961, she attended the Tabernacle and Cathedral Primary schools and the Methodist Girls High school.

After leaving school, she became a pupil teacher in the school, before proceeding to the Milton Margai Teachers College where she graduated with a Higher Teachers’ certificate; she was awarded a scholarship to study French in Togo and France Still wanting to further her education, she went to Fourah Bay College and graduated in French and geography. She had a Master degree in Educational Administration from Njala University This motivated her to head her school as principal and was appointed acting principal of the junior department on the 18th of August 2009 and died on the 18th August 2010 A devoted Christian who served in several women Christian organisations.

She also encouraged women in the Diaspora to embark on several developmental projects to reform the school.

She is survived by her mother Mrs Elizabeth Williams, sons Mackie and Nyakeh, Sisters Mrs Ruby Samai in Freetown, Mrs Cynthia Williams in London and hosts of relatives and friends including Methodist Girls High School and UMC King Memorial Church in Freetown.

MAY THE SOUL OF OUR DEAR A O REST IN PERFECT PEACE.

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tribute

Isaac Charles Modu -Bell Samuel

Charles Magnus Jones

Lest We Forget, this is a tribute to the Late Mr Isaac Charles Modu -Bell, born in Wilberforce Village to the late Mr Bankole Wilkinson Bell and Mrs Blanch Bell, who had his sudden home call on the fateful day of 1st July 2011, age 49 years. Ex-employee of the Ministry of Mines, Mineral Resources as Assistant Mines Monitor Officer, attached to the Kenema office.

Pop as he was fondly called by his children is missed by his wife Mrs Janet Modu-Bell, children Donaldson, Isaac jr., Zaacnet and Audrey, whose silent thoughts are, “we remember you in many ways

especially for the nice spoken words to your family and in-laws; Isaac, you are missed so greatly by your brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. He will be remembered for his dark sunglasses he usually wears”.

Pop! You gone so suddenly at the time we needed you most, God knows best, we love Pop, but Jesus loves you best, we never had time to say goodbye, sleep on beloved, sleep and take your rest.

May his soul, and all the souls of the departed, rest in perfect peace.

By his beloved Wife, Janet Modu-Bell and Children.

TRIBUTE THE LATE PASTOR MRS MADINATU EVELYN ALLEN

Life like an empty dream is very unpredictable, this is why we as human beings should always be ready because we know nor the day, hour or minute when the call will come.

That was exactly what happened on that fateful day , Wednesday the 10th of August, 2011, a couple of days after the late Pastor

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Mrs Madinatu Evelyn Allen bade farewell to her colleagues and patients at theChoithram hospital at Wilberforce in Freetown Sierra Leone to proceed on maternity leave.

No one knew that this bubbling young woman only 36 years old was saying goodbye for good. Less than a week later she was gone She was a product of the Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary school and a qualified nurse of the Nurses Training and Allied Medicine School in Freetown Sierra Leone .

Pastor Madinatu Allen was a devoted worker, a loving wife and mother to Pastor Allexander Allen of the Well of Life Church in Lumley Freetown Sierra Leone and mother to three beautiful children Aldina, Almad and Marylyn.

Her devotion to work and her concerns for the many patients she nursed during her time at the Lumley and Choithram hospitals in Freetown Sierra Leone will leave indelible marks in the hearts of many.

She will also be remember for her inspiring sermons during Sundays ‘ service s and words of comfort for the distress, sick and lonely.

Tribute to our dear beloved father, brother and Uncle Mr Magnus Samuel Charles Jones who passed away on the 17th July 2011, was 58 years. We are full of grief and pain as we see yet another loved one going down to mother earth on the very same month of July 2011, Magnus as was called by the family was the first of nine seedlings by the late Mr Samuel Charles Ajayi Jones and Mrs Philippa Dowu Jones, departed this life to the great beyond after a short illness. He was a Police Sergeant Officer (1214) attached to the Police Training School, Hastings, and he is loved and missed by his children for his caring and concern towards them.

Papa Maggi, you would be remembered for your dedicated and selfless effort to you duties. We miss you papa and your place is always vacant, rest in father’s Abram arms.

By your Sisters and Brothers.

We all love and miss her greatly but Jesus loves her most. She leaves behind a grieving husband Pastor Allexander Allen of the Well of Life Church in Lumley, children Aldina, Almad and Marylyn Mother Mrs Aminata Kamara, mother-in-law Mrs Daisy Bona of Calabash Magazine, Brothers and Sister-inlaws and other relatives in Sierra Leone and abroad May she rest in peace

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is the daughter of Ex- Major Ansumana Bockarie Tararawalie of the Sierra Leone Military forces now a Paramount chief, while the bridegroom, Ibrahim Daboh of the Madingo tribe, is the son of Late Kamanda Daboh and also a cousin to Mohammed Dabo of SLBL/TV fame ( now Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation).

The relationship between these two people was described as a love at first sight which started ten years ago, when Ibrahim saw a picture of Sarah and immediately knew that she was the woman of his dreams. He made every possible effort to get in contact with the beautiful nymph in the photograph and from that point human chemistry clicked in and the rest, as they say, is history.

After the ceremony at the mosque,

Sarah and Ibrahim Dabo’s great day

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arah Wula Tarawalie and Ibrahim Daboh concretised their ten years relationship last July at the Brixton Mosque (commonly known as the Sa Leone mosque) where the officiating Iman advised the couple to uphold the principles and doctrines of a good muslim by exhibiting good examples to others by prayers and respect for each other.

The muslim clergy affirmed that although the man is the head of the house that should not mean that the woman should be treated as a commodity. Marriage can only yield good fruits like decent and well behaved children when they are brought up in home comprising of a mother and father.

The bride Sarah, from the Kurankoh tribe,

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guests were treated to a swell reception and party held at the Mount Vernon Post office complex. Men and women in colourful African and cultural asho- ebi danced to traditional Mandingo music as well as and the popular Dr Oloh and his milo jazz.

In his remarks, Mr Mohamed Dabo who piloted the reception ceremony described the couple as a match made for each other and praised Sarah ‘s devotion to her husband and respect for his relative, her in-laws. Such good attributes, have brought joy and happiness to both families on whose behalf he expressed sincere wishes for many years of wedded bliss.

Many relatives and friends serenaded the brides good qualities in eloquent speeches.

In his toast to the bride and groom, the god father Mr Tamba Mansa Ngegba , Deputy High Commissioner in the Sierra Leone High Commission, praised Sarah and Ibrahim for being together for so long before formalising their relationship as husband and wife. He advised them to continue to stick together and avoid any obstacles that may threaten their married life. He advised them to settle any dispute that may arise

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without the interference of any third party.

This toast was responded to by Mr Ibrahim Dabo who said that his entire family had wholeheartedly embraced Sarah.

In toasting the parents of the bride, a relative of the bridegroom, Ms Kadiatu Dabo commended them for bringing up such a fine respectful, reliable and dependable lady that Ibrahim will find a great asset.

Responding to this toast, a relative of the bride Ms Janet AL Moiba who had known the bride for a long time said because of her upbringing in a disciplined but loving family, Sarah is a woman with values men would die for, she said the Daboh family will not regret their son’s choice.

Mr Paul Koroma toasted the parents of the groom whom he described as reliable, generous and supportive to all family causes and even before the formalising of their relationship by marriage, Sarah had already been accepted by the Daboh family. Mr Sheku Ajuma Jalloh responded by comfirming the good qualities and patience of Sarah and thanked all those who contributed to the success of the wedding as well as those who travelled from other countries to attend

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the ceremony.

The toast to the guests was proposed by Mr Karamoh Daboh who described Sarah as dependable. Those who have known her for a very long time could testify to her good qualities and upbringing and the calibre of people at the ceremony was enough proof of the couple’s way of life.

Responding, Mr Ibrahim Forfanah described Sarah as the peoples’ princess loved by all. He wished the couple peace, happiness and God’s continued blessings.

Tributes to the bride and groom were also paid by Mrs Marie Macfoy and Mrs Evelyn Koroma, who praised them for their patience, love and steadfastness which have yielded such good fruits as two beautiful children and a happy union.

In their statements to the newly –weds, Mrs Hawa Sesay, nee Daboh and Mrs Sarah Deen cautioned them against discussing their marital affairs with friends and listening to gossip. They advised them not to be afraid, ashamed or too proud to confront each in a civil manner whenever there is a problem and this should be done in the close confinement of their home.

The well-loved and popular song at such occasions - Sweet Mother - dedicated to special mothers was played for the bride’s mother Mrs Nasilla Tarawalie, while Mr and Mrs Daboh danced to a very popular Mandingo song.

Western and traditional menus were

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served in the cuisine at the wedding dinner.

Guests were treated to the choicest wines and other varieties of drinks after which they danced to heart throbbing western cultural Madingo and popular African music.

In the wedding party’s entourage were the bridesmaids, Kadijah Sesay, Dorence Cole, Louise Patton, and Fatmata N M Kamara. Bestmen were Manya Tarawalie, Abdul Bangura, Ibrahim Forfanah and Mohammed Bah. Flower girls were Sarah Musu Daboh (daughter of the bride and groom), Josephine Jalloh, Ofune Obibi Moidi and Yazmeen Kudah Mansaray. Page boys were Ansumana Daboh (Son of bride and groom), Jamil Jallo Jamboria, Edward Davis and Benal Koroma.

Godfather was Mr Tamba Mansa

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Ngegba deputy High Commiossioner Sierra Leone,godmother Mrs Sarah Deen and godwitness Haja Tedankay Kabay. The little bride and groom were Mariam Marah and Kamanda Daboh. Maid of Honour Ms. Janet

Miss Nubian FoundationChampioning UK Black History Month

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Calabash - I’m here at the Calabash Headquarters with Miss Nubian Foundation‘s CEO, the inspirational Jacqueline Wabara

Calabash: So, tell me more about yourself?

Jacqueline: Well, I hold a Masters Degree in Management Practice and International Marketing .I am an accomplished Management Consultant and the Director of Wabara PR .Although extremely academic I have a passion for the arts .I love fashion and during my formative years before going to University to study my 1st degree, I studied music so I can write music and play several instruments.

Calabash: Where do you originate from?

Jacqueline: I was born and raised in the Midlands in the UK but I’m Nigeria (Igbo ) and hail from Abia /Rivers State.

Calabash: What is the Miss Nubian Foundation?

Jacqueline: The Miss Foundation is a London based, volunteer led, arts focused, social enterprise that was founded 4 years ago.

Calabash: Why? Jacqueline: The rationale behind the formation of the Foundation transpired after it was identified that there was a significant lack of free support available for aspiring black artistes who were in need of free industry specific support in:-

Calabash: Is the Foundation Funded?

Jacqueline: No Calabash: So how do you achieve these objectives?

Jacqueline: With help of a formidable team of volunteers.

Calabash: What do you feel has attributed towards the foundations success?

Jacqueline: I believe it’s success has been based on a culmination of things, the main ones being our:Open Door Policy Supportive Culture Fundraising Ethos Strong Community Links Media Liasions Partnerships with Charities that strive to aid Black Communities living in Diaspora . Ability to forge strong links with the Media ,Strategic partners & Community Leaders Specialist in-house Ethnic Marketing, Artiste & Event Management expertise.

Advice & Guidance Support & Mentoring Artiste Management And who were ultimately seeking platform that would propel their talents in full glare of the media spotlight.

Calabash: What are the organisation’s objectives?

Jacqueline: Our corporate mission is to Propel Talents, Championing Good Causes and Empower Black Communities.

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Calabash: Apart from providing help for artistes what else does the Foundation do?

Jacqueline: I am thrilled that in less that 4 years the Foundation has been able to develop an impressive portfolio of events, we now organise the UK’s foremost:Pageant for Talented ladies of colour Black History Month event, Community Champion Awards Ceremony Nubian Expo Calabash: What exactly is Black History Month (BHM)?

Jacqueline: October is the month that heralds’ Black History Month Celebration in the UK. The purpose of which is to celebrate the achievements of Black people to date by showcasing historical, arts and cultural based activities.

Calabash: Who is BHM it targeted at?

Jacqueline: The activities and events are targeted at the UK community at large, people of all ages, sexes and who are of African and Caribbean heritage although individuals from other communities are also welcome to come and celebrate, communicate and convey our achievements too.

Calabash: How did you come up with the idea of the Extravaganza?

Jacqueline: I had the brainwave after attending a conference about How Governmental Funding cuts will affect communities. I was confident that the Miss Nubian Foundation could meet the need of our service users, the black communities and at the same time support charities by organising their own Black History Month Event .After months of planning the Inaugural Miss Nubian Black History Month Extravaganza was born.

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Calabash: So who are the beneficiaries?

Jacqueline: All in all the Extravaganza is a celebratory fundraising event. After 3 year the Miss Nubian Foundation Annual Black History Month Extravaganza incorporates all of the Foundation events thus providing an invaluable platform for up and coming breakthrough vocalists, fashion designers, models, musicians ,comedians ,make-up artists ,dancers, poets to showcase their talents and develop their audiences both in the UK and Internationally.

The spotlight provides an excellent promotional catalyst for Charities to raise their profile and levels of awareness. of the plight of those living in the Diaspora.

Entrepreneurs exhibiting their services or products also benefit as well as unsung community hero’s who are duly recognised and rewarded on the night for the efforts to heighten community cohesion and improve lives .Lastly ,the Miss Nubian UK finalists who are able to exemplify to all that they are more than just pretty faces and of course the overall winner who will be crowned Miss Nubian UK on the night.

Throughout the evening our BHM Extravaganza adopts a edutainment theme and does not just provide an opportunity for Black people residing in the UK to celebrate their African & Caribbean culturally heritage ,it also enhances community cohesion and instil prides amongst the youth.

Calabash: And what are the plans for the Miss Nubian Foundation in 2012?

Jacqueline: Miss Nubian Foundation regenerates the momentous and Champion Black History Month ensuring that the associated celebrations are positioned on the UK’s mainstream events Calendar.

This October’s Annual Black History Month Fundraising Extravaganza again will be held in London West Ends and is poised to be even bigger and better. To ensure that the event is the success ,The foundation is in desperate need of volunteers who are looking for work experience in Admin, PR/ Marketing, Multi media, and Hospitality Management. Additionally we are now interested in hearing from individuals who would like to donate, perform, sponsor, exhibit, become a media Partner, contestant, supporter or beneficiary:Calabash: How can anyone get in contact with Miss Nubian Foundation?

Jacqueline: There are several ways, Email: info@missnubianfoundation.org.uk Tel: 07861 219 057 Like us on our Facebook Page

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Happy Birthday, Kikelomo Faola

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t is always a joy to mark and celebrate birthdays, this is even more important when celebrating a two score and ten one. It is therefore not surprising that months of meticulous planning to the final detail came to reality for a special and highly respected celebrant.

Unlike many celebrations, this birthday celebration moved to a different level and in fact, it is an added privilege when the celebrant has royalty as the father of the day.

The celebrant was no other person than Mrs. Kikelomo Faola, who celebrated her 50th birthday in a style, not common in other celebrations.

The magnificent and beautifully decorated hall was filled to the brim well before the advertised starting time.

Kike as she is fondly called by family and friends, in specially designed attire was surrounded by darling husband, Francis Jimisayo Faola, children and the Faola clan in UK led by Professor Deji Faola who is the clan head.

Also in attendance were extended family members from Nigeria who came purposely to celebrate with Kike, church elders, friends and well wishers.

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The arrival of His Royal Highness, Kabiyesi Engineer Adebamigbe Oluwagbemigun, Kokotiri 2, The Olu-Ijare of Ijare in Ondo State and his entourage was the signal for everyone in the hall to stand up and acknowledge the presence of royalty, by welcoming him, as well as the time for the Yoruba tribe in the hall, to pay homage to His Royal Highness.

As is always on a day like this, husband, Francis who could not hide his joy, seized the opportunity to display his love by helping Kikelomo to cut her birthday cake surrounded by children.

The celebration, which started with prayer, ended in the small hours of the following morning.

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It was a day Kikelomo, family members, friends and well wishers will never forget.

The management and staff of Calabash Magazine wish Mrs. Kikelomo many happy returns.

Bankole

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God is at work hereWedding between Abu Bakarr Conteh and Abijah Gadd Story Raymond Akabi-Davis

The “God Is at Work Here” hall had been turned into a Royal palladium. The massive stage bedecked with a background of golden pillars and purple-draped curtains, in front of which the newly weds sat on a cream and golden double-couched throne complimented with 2 cream and golden footstools.

The guests had started arriving as early as 5pm to take their seats and await the arrival of the royal bride and groom. The Royal Table itself was decorated with an expensive white silk flowery-frilled table cloth and had 5 high table seats at each side. As the guests attired in a mixture of colourful array of beautifully tailored African costumes, headgears and suites patiently waited for the grand entrance of

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he scene was set! The ambience just right! The Kingdom Life Ministry (KLM) in Surrey Quays was the perfect venue for the event of that unforgettable November evening. It was the sort of wedding reception that would be on one’s lips for ever. It was a wedding reception which smacked royalty for the beautiful and adorable bride, Abijah Gadd and the Groom, lovable and handsome Abu Bakarr Conteh who had moments earlier made their wedding vows to each other.

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a formidable entrance on to the stage.

Mr Suhood reminded guests that marriage was not only the union between two people but, the coming together of two families and friends to celebrate the union, prestige, company and food for the occasion. He congratulated the families of the bride and groom for putting together such a beautiful royal-themed wedding reception.

The MC introduced the Chief organiser, Dolly Lewis and her team; the parents of the Bride Mr & Mrs Rugie Link, the parents of the groom; the bridesmaids and groomsmen; and the God Parents for the occasion.

Prayers were offered by Mr Abass.

the newlyweds and their entourage many of them marvelled and commented on the wedding cake.

The wedding cake itself was ensconced on a large table and was designed in the form of a Royal castle. The largest cake which represented the court was bedecked with two ladders on each side which led to two second tier cakes which in turn had ladders leading the third tier cake that sat over a fountain. The third tier cake had 4 pillars which supported the fourth and final tier cake on which stood a solitary figurine of the groom, no doubt waiting for his gorgeous bride. The whole edifice sat inbetween a white silk archway adorned with tiny twinkling stars. The attraction of the monumental cake soon subsided when the MC for the evening, Mr Suhood Komel made

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The chairman for the occasion, Mr Madani Deen-Gabisi complimenting the newly wedded husband and wife, unfolded the story of how the two love birds met and built their relationship. He advised the newly weds to be faithful honest and just with each other and to respect each other at all times.

Mr Abu Bakarr Conteh, the groom, praised his wife for her patience and said, “What else can I ask for? I have a beautiful woman who is lovely and adorable”. Remembering that crystal clear day, Abu said he went to his aunt and told her he had found his wife, adding “I will marry her on November 5 “.

Abijah’s father, Mr Link, expressed his happiness in seeing this day come to fruition. He noted that looking after someone else’s child is very difficult, coming from two different backgrounds. He said he accepted Abijah wholeheartedly as his own daughter, and he thanked God she had turned out to be a nice lady and that she had met a very nice man who he admires.

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A minutes silence was held for the passing away of Abijah’s cousin.

On behalf of the groom Hajah Seray Daramy welcomed Abijah into their family and said she will support her and give her love and acceptance.

Offering the Vote of Thanks, Salay Mansaray thanked everyone for making the event a successful royal occasion.

She said that without the guests there would have been no success. She warned that marriage is not easy, that it was honourable but not comfortable, and that people should not marry for the wrong reasons. She admonished them to be patient loving and kind to each other, adding “What God has joined together, let not man put asunder”.

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And they joined Celebrations are also fitting events to mark the sleepless nights and countless worries parents have been going through in this hectic European lifestyle juggling work with bringing up their siblings. They always savour the day when their siblings attain a certain milestone in their lives.

As it is written in the bible, children are gifts from God. Calabash Magazine met with one of these proud parents as they celebrated their daughter’s 10th birthday holding a birthday party in her honour in a hall along Old Kent Road, Peckham.

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Meet Alimamy and M’balu

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s the saying goes particularly among journalists, a ‘picture paints a thousand words’.

That is certainly true of the photographs you have been looking at, each of which captures a specific moment in time which is then literally frozen for ever. Those images of the happiest day of a couple’s life never grow old. The great thing about wedding photographs is that they capture the pomp, the pageantry, the posturing but above all the joy and happiness which mark that great day for posterity.

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As a young boy growing up in Freetown and before the days when ‘tap to me-ism ‘became widely accepted, it was interesting to hear the remark by the older women when the groom was driving away with his new bride late in the evening of their wedding day; in Krio, this went something like: ‘di weddin don don, na now di mared bigin’ . This implies that the pomp and ceremony are over and the hard reality of living together as husband and wife commences.

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Yours truly first met Mr and Mrs Koroma at their South London, Roland Way, residence sometime after their latest nuptials . It was an extremely cordial meeting and yours truly was treated like a long-lost uncle. And one of the husband’s first words after the usual introductions were: Pa, ar don mared tri tem. (I’ve been married three times)He must have seen the look of incomprehension on my face so he hastened to explain that the photographs he handed for publication in this magazine were those taken at the most recent one, which was the religious ceremony in a mosque.

The couple first met when M’Balu was a mere sweet sixteen and still attending school. They first tied the knot in the traditional way (put kola) in 1989. This union was further cemented by a ceremony at the Registry office on the 27th day of December 2003. And as if to make assurance double sure, and convince the whole wide world that theirs is an unshakable love which no man will put asunder ( mek no man- puss nor pass under), they put on the final seal, first at the Annerly Town Hall followed immediately by the religious ceremony at the Sa. Leone Community Mosque in Brixton.

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The happy couple are already blessed with five sons, (with the eldest Hassan, already at Uni) which means that M’Balu is the only female in a crowded household of seven people. So yours truly asked her how she felt about this. She only smiled in a rather shy way and before she could begin to respond, it was Ali himself who quickly piped up to assure me: Pa, you nor worry, di nex wan... He left that hanging in the air while M’Balu continued smiling from ear to ear.

Apparently, he must be honing his skills and planning new strategies so as to ensure that the next one is a girl.

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With experience at interviewing couples, one can easily sense when a thin facade of unity and marital bliss is being put on for one’s benefit and that the gloves would be off as soon as you are out of earshot. Not so with Mr and Mrs Koroma. Here the affection was genuine and almost palpable. So I asked them whether they ever quarrelled and how such disagreements were resolved.

All Mrs Koroma would say with a broad smile was: i tink se mi nar im pikin (he treats me like his child); while Mr K thinks that M’Balu is a ‘fantastic wife and mother’ but who simply cannot reverse or park the car I bought her properly.

Calabash cannot but wish this lovely couple many, many years of marital bliss!

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Mary Kumbu Smart stormed London, England with her Fortieth birthday party in grand style.

The Birthday Party was hosted by Madanni Din- Gabisi and two Co Mc - Mr Mustapha Adams and Desola Jegede, (a very close friend of Miss Kumbu-Smart).

Mary was born in the United Kingdom to the late Hon Alfred Kumbu- Smart and wife Margaret. She attended both Primary and Secondary school in Freetown and Nigeria before returning to England several years ago.

Most of her family, friends and associates know her for her delicious cuisine. (e sabi cook baaad says Giara and few other friends including the M.C for the night Madanni.)

Mary’s first entrance into the night was met by pure acceptance and admiration. She came in and was met at the entrance by her bro-in-law Mr Leslie Magbe Jonjo and the birthday girl and London diva extraordinaire looked so regal and quite ravishing in a

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Swarovski jewel embellished strapless Hollywood gown. She went round all the tables greeting her guests and thanking them for being there.

She left the hall while her guests were having their dinner and later returned in the most elegant eye catching, figure hugging, amazing black evening gown. On her 2nd appearance, it was noticed that Mary got a standing ovation from her guests who were again stunned by the sheer beauty of the birthday girl. Mary was full of smiles all throughout the night, a night of pure elegance, grace and delight. It was indeed her night.

Ms Claudia Cummings one of her oldest, closest school friend made a moving speech by cataloguing all the good and crazy things she did in high school in her teenage years, paid glowing tribute to the Kumbu Smart

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family and how they had spared no effort in ensuring that Mary received a sterling upbringing. She also gave samples of some of their more daring exploits as teenagers, for instance, how they used to jump over the fence late at night when their parents were in bed to go clubbing in the 80’s.

Ms Sally Thomas who is also a close friend of Mary’s and has virtually become a part of the Kumbu Smart family spoke movingly about her relationship with the celebrant. She went into detail about how over five years their relationship has blossomed from that of mere friendship to that of sisterhood. She touched on the changes that have taken place in Mary’s life in the past year including her son’s return to the UK and how much that has influenced the new beginning in this new decade of her life.

Mr Giara Alhadi, who is like a brother to Mary could not stop thanking her for all her patience in accommodating him at any hours of the day, when he would ring her bell for just about anything ranging from food to emotional support.

Simeon Jonjo the third, Mary’s only child, had written a poem in honour of his mom, which he kept a secret for days so she wouldn’t stumble upon it. He printed several copies and asked his aunts to keep it in case he lost it that day; he wanted it to be perfect for his mom. Simeon could not stop praising his mum’s beautiful looks and thanking her for being an extraordinary mother; bringing him up to be a strong and hard working gentleman with the world at his feet. As Simeon stood taller than his mom at the tender age of 13, one could see

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that he has been gently moulded, with the help of Mary’s mother, his grandmother, into a strong and capable teenager with good character and full of promise.. He celebrated her boundless physical and emotional energies she lavishes on him through her innumerable acts of love and support of a doting mother. His speech ended with him confirming to the guests that the greatest privilege in his life was having her as his mother and for which he thanked his lucky stars.

The ambience and décor was created by one of Sierra Leone’s top event organizers: ‘ First Impression Event Ltd’ run by Laura Emonfomwan. It was a theme of diamonds and pearls, white carpet and just pure elegance and purity. Music was provided by the one and only Junior Kalie Kamara, who spun our favorite hits from the 80’s, 90’s as well as the latest Afro-Caribbean beats from all over the Globe. The evening’s activities exuded pure class and elegance, with a three course meal and provided by our very

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own Reginald Kargbo, who prepared savory, mouth watering, food for the guests. It was even said by one guest Mr Obozo quote ‘that in the 18 years in London, he had never gone to any event which had the kind of hot, tasty cuisine served to him, as that night’.

Responding to the wonderful sentiments expressed by various speakers, Mary Kumbu –Smart emphasized that she had attained everything through the support of her parents, siblings and great friends, who had always been with her through good times and bad.

She extended her appreciation to all those who had been with her throughout her life in various ways, thus helping to mould her into the woman that she had become.

Words could not express her gratitude towards those who had always believed in her. She expressed herself succinctly in all her mistakes and the various trials and tribulation she has encountered. In essence, its not the years in one’s life that count, but the life in one’s years.

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The cutting of her birthday cake was with her son and her elder Brother Tapha.

In her vote of thanks, she paid tribute to her many relatives and great friends who contributed to the success of her birthday bash and for the countless donations whether in cash, beverages, their precious time and just overall support to ensure the event was an unqualified success. She also went on to say that naming all these special people in her life who deserved being named would have taken all night, but as they all knew who they were, she expressed her sincere gratitude collectively for all their assistance in making her special day a wonderful a truly memorable one.

She however could not help naming a few individuals to whom she wished to express her love, gratitude and appreciation such as Madina Mansaray, Fatmata Kamara, Neneh Cherry Kabia, Yeabu Koroma, Sia Nyandemoh and Sally Thomas. Throughout the planning of the occasion, Mary pestered those

people close to her with endless calls, ideas, demands, etc‌ and Mary would like to openly acknowledge all their contributions.

She also thanked Mabinty Sankoh in the States whose patience and perseverance in driving from store to store to view all the various outfits that Mary had her eyes on was truly commendable. Without all these special and wonderful people, she would not have had such success at making this day such a memorable one to cherish for the rest of her lifetime. She praised all her guests for the way they were all beautifully turned out looking quite elegant and dapper.

Prayers were offered for Mary and her son by Ms Nancy Banya who has also played a highly supportive role in her life during difficult times. Her Special Godmother, Mrs Jariatu Mahoi, who has been around Mary all her life, during her marriage, the good, sad and difficult times and in all aspects of Mary’s life also expressed her love, admiration, pride and support for her.

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Wurie and Olu Wedding

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ummer is generally regarded as the silly season. But for Sierra Leoneans and other West Africans in the Diaspora, it is the time for lavish dos which usually take the form of really sumptuous weddings. As if on cue on this sunny Saturday in July 2011, Assie and Olu made their vows across two different religious backgrounds, cultures and national frontiers.

The name Wurie is quite a household name in the educational , commercial and social spheres of life in Sierra Leone; it was therefore not surprising that many top people including the Sierra Leone High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Mr Edward Turay and senior officials from the High Commission, other distinguished personalities as well as private individuals of both countries turned up to honour these two young people coming from two different countries united as one. It however ,did not deviate

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from the pattern which this magazine has underscored in virtually every number when it comes where men from a particular country turn when it comes to looking for eligible brides. It never seems to be the other way round ;why? But let’s not digress.

The St John the Evangelist Church at Crawford Avenue in North London was packed to the rafters with sponsors, friends, relations, all gaily adorned in colourful western and traditional attires.

The bride, dressed in white embroidered wedding gown and white veil secured elegantly on her stylish hairdo by a lovely tiara. She held a delicate bouquet of white, pink and purple flowers against a background of green foliage; while her bridesmaids and others in her entourage wore dark purple and pink, each carrying a posie of purple and white flowers.

The bridegroom, best-man and grooms -man opted for dark grey suits, pale contrasting waistcoats and sporting the traditional carnation on their lapels.

The ladies in attendance were, of course, determined not to be outdone: The Nigerian women were striking in their Ero and Buba were mostly in silver, grey and pink while their Sierra Leonean counterparts were resplendent in their gara, brocade, delicate lace materials adorned with imitation precious stones. It was really a sight for tired eyes as all rubbed shoulders together with other nationals, all dressed to kill.

There was great suspense as the bridal procession entered into the church to the tune of the beautiful song ‘Morning has broken’. Before the ceremony proper, the

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officiating clergy reminded the congregation of the spiritual, the church service, the legal, i.e. the signing of the register and obtaining a legal marriage certificate and the physical sharing of vows thus binding both as a couple responsible for each others’ wellbeing.

After the church service the bridal entourage and guests took a long drive to Watford where a grand wedding reception was held at Gade House on Watford High Street.

Piloted by a very ebullient and humorous Master of Ceremonies, Mr Alim Kamara, a lively and colourful programme then ensued.

The procession into the hall was kicked off by the ushers and usherettes followed by the little bride and groom, Miss Fatima Konteh –whose dancing absolutely stole the show -and Master Tyson Agbajoh. Then followed the parents of the bride, Mr Umaru and Mrs Hawa Wurie to the accompaniment of that evergreen favourite, ‘Sweet Mother’ It was then the turn of the grooms parents, Mr Olu and Mrs Stella Akani, followed by the godparents and witnesses. By the time the Bridesmaids and groomsmen waltzed in, all

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celebration

were in a heightened state of expectation for the triumphal entry of bride and groom both radiating sheer joy and happiness.

The toastmaster, Mr Funso.....directed the speeches and toasts with considerable skill and even -handedness. There were the speeches and bits of advice, some from practical experience while others are from theoretical knowledge, but all well meaning.

Such pearls of wisdom, if followed to the letter(if that were possible) should really make for a perfect and idyllic marriage.

Food and drinks were provided in great abundance and it was quite apparent that no expense was spared to make the occasion a truly memorable one. What a pity closing time regulations were so strict as, before real justice to all the mass of goodies provided could really be done, it was time to call it a night. Everyone was reluctant to leave as large quantities of stuff was still waiting to be consumed by happy guests who were just settling down to some serious partying.

May Olu and Assietu’s journey into that unique and most honourable estate of marriage be one long party.

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celebration

Put Salone music on the map by supporting our stars

A

fter the civil war in the 90s the country, Sierra Leone along with its music has been transformed. Today the entire nature of Salone music both in its creation and delivery is different from palm-wine, gumbe and other genres. Sierra Leone, similar to the rest of West Africa music, is being impacted by western rap, reggae, dancehall, RnB AND grime music. The war and conflict has resulted in a decrease in the presence of traditional music artist. The interest and spread of western culture has encouraged the young people of Sierra Leone to express themselves through a new style of music.

Many songs, have political and social themes in them, and play a great role in informing the society and checking politicians. Many Sierra Leone artists now sing in both Creole and English which gives their songs a great chance of becoming international.

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Regardless of the changes in Sierra Leone Music, we can still say that Sierra Leone music is enjoyed worldwide. However Piracy over the years has seriously damaged the financial returns of many artists and has prevented them from being successful in their career. The Campaign run by Cassette Sellers for anti-piracy started in 1996 and was finally billed by President Ernest Bai Koroma on Wednesday, July 13, 2011 known as The Copyright Act/Piracy Bill. Many Sierra Leone artists fully support the copyright laws where others argue that the law has made it even more difficult for artist than before. Not only with the piracy but many artists are being exploited by so called managers and promoters.

In October 2011 Mr. and Mrs. Bangura decided that it would be a good idea to have an online shop where Sierra Leone Music would be available to buy as at present Sierra Leone music is not that accessible.

What makes our Salone TrueFans different from other online music stores such as iTunes, Amazon and CD baby is that we are only dedicated to Salone Music /artists.

Secondly, we do not take commission from the sales of the song the artist sell. Thirdly the revenue from the sale of the songs goes directly to the artist. The reason why we have decided not to charge commission from the sale of the songs is that we want the artists to make money from their music. By the artists making money from their music, they are able to make better music and make professional music videos, which is a must if any artist wants to see their music go international.

At present Salone music is not accessible, especially in Europe. There is nowhere in London where you can buy Salone Music. I believe this is what encourages piracy; lack of accessibility of the music. Salone TrueFans website allows Salone music to be more

music

Influential TV channels; Members will have the opportunity to be booked to perform at top events and Members will have the opportunity to take part in interviews which will be published on TV, radio and online.

If Sierra Leoneans want to see Salone music go international then we are the ones that have to support the Artists. I know that every Sierra Leonean loves to dance and loves music. Our Artists are filled with talent. We have artists all over the world signing and rapping in creole producing various genres of music

accessible. No matter where you are in the world, you are able to get access to Salone music on our website. Artists will get the money made from the sale of their songs sent directly to them, with no commission charged.

Our aim is to promote Sierra Leone music to the masses. We have so many talented artists across the World. Our website which will be launched on the 28th February 2012, will offer Artists various services such as; selling music on The exclusive Salone True fans website with no charges deducted taken from song (artists keep all the income generated from selling their material); Performing at top clubs in central London; Salone True Fans will promote and Market your songs for free ; Artists will have the opportunity to perform at top Events and venues such as the 02 arena and various other award type ceremonies; Each artist member will have their own profile page, where they can upload pictures and write comments and interact with their fans (using your unique login details to log in from anywhere in the world) ; Artists songs will be played on Top Radio Stations; Members music videos will be played on

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music

from traditional to RnB to rap and soul.

They say charity begins at home. That saying is very true. So let us support our artist by buying their music and going to their concerts. Singles can be bought as little as 50p and Albums as little as £5. Users of Salone TrueFans will also get free music downloads, exclusive invites to concerts, interact with the artists, watch latest music videos, watch artist interviews and be the first to get new singles and albums. The most important thing is that when you purchase a song the money goes directly to the artists. Let’s put music Sierra Leone on the map.

On 28TH JANUARY 2012 Salone TrueFans organised a professional photo shoot for the new UK members of Salone TrueFans. Image is crucial as an artist. We put together this photo shoot to encourage the artists to think about their image and build a portfolio of professional pictures. It was a fun day with 11 artists and 4 models who took part in a photo shoot, TV advert and interviews. We want fans to really get to know their artists. We will be doing regular interviews with artists in London, USA and Freetown. The interviews in London will be presented by * An AUDIENCE with BOSS LADY*.

The Aim and Objective for *An AUDIENCE With BOSS LADY* is to provide a platform through interviews and media publicity to allow grace for the artists voice and music to be heard. As Hostess of the Show I would like to entertain, uplift and enlighten millions of viewers in

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awareness of SALONE MUSIC and what our Artists can offer as MUSICIANS and ENTERTAINERS. To be a Successful Artist you have to be SMART, HARD WORKING, ASSERTIVE, COLLECTED, EFFICIENT, HUMBLE, HONEST, FOCUSED, DETERMINED and MOTIVATED, VERSATILE among others or else you will never achieve your goals. Your skin has to be tough to hold the most NEGATIVE ORDOUR surrounding you to a POSITIVE FORT, or else your wall crumbles down and your accomplishments will go to waste.

This is my message to all SALONE ARTISTS. As simple as it sounds, you must try to be the best person you can be: by making the best choices and making the most of the talents you’ve been given. I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but you are well equipped for it if only you tap into your talents and gifts and allow them to blossom.

C.H.A.N.G.E. = Choose Happiness And Never Give Excuses. FORGIVE and Forget Past Mistakes. Forget failures.

Forget everything else that has happened negatively except what you’re going to do NOW and DO IT POSITIVELY! Being considerate of others will take you further in life than a college qualification!! Humility and Compassion will earn you more Blessings and Favours than a University Degree!! Your Dedication and Commitment will win you the Success you seek as an Artist.

This is the motto I live on: Always On Point, Swagger Tight, Mind Right, Fully Focused, Aim High, Unstoppable, Efficient!! Runnin’Tingz, 2Focused2Trip.

The host who will be presenting the interviews with the artists in USA is Abubakarr Jalloh aka Salone Borbor. He is known as the number one promoter/ Comedian in USA and Freetown. He started promoting in 2006 simply by uploading artist videos and sharing their songs to his fans, and using social media sites to promote our Salone artists. Through his promotion he has made many artist songs reach number one both in USA and Free Town.

music

Salone Truefans is also working with the Well-established Sierra Leone online radio SMTV. The only place to listen Sierra Leone music 24 hours 7days a week SLMTV acronym for Sierra Leone Music Television was founded in 2000. It was created SLMTV as a national, nonprofit business organization representing Sierra Leone Music Entertainment Industry and African-related groups in entertainment.

Their website offers many features, for an audience that has long been overlooked, every time they log onto slmtv.com. Their goal is not only to link the community, through the entertainment industry, but to also introduce this dynamic culture to a new and ever growing audience. LISTEN TO SALONE MUSIC 24/7 WWW.SLMTVRADIO. COM. The ultimate entertainment portal.

Karla’s Birthday

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CARLA WHITEHEAD

Miss Carla Whitehead’s Mum and Dad Lovetta and Carlton Whitehead thank the many relatives, friends and acquaintances who honoured the invitation to their daughter’s 6th birthday celebration.

We appreciate the valuable gifts, best wishes, phone calls or other methods of expressing such kind sentiments. God bless you all.

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Chaircovers, Table Covers, Sashes, Actificial Flowers 63 Lovett Way, Neasden London NW10 0UN 07832056178, 0741210435, 0208 4593191 Lucton23@hotmil.com www.lucdelrentals.com facebook page: lycdel RENTALS

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international

Martin Luther King: His Dream for Human Rights World-wide!

W

hilst I was in Atlanta, Georgia during Xmas 2011, I decided to visit the birth place of one of the worlds most talked about civil rights leaders, Martin Luther King. I had heard so much about him when I was growing up and in fact the day he was assassinated, April 4 1968 I was two years away from completing my secondary education.

Martin Luther King was born in Atlanta, Georgia in January 1929 and spent most of his life fighting for equality and civil rights.

He was best known for his powerful “I had a dream” speech which he delivered during his “March on Washington D.C for Jobs & Freedom” 0f 250,000 people in August 1963.

Martin became leader of the first nonviolent demonstration boycotting buses against segregation in 1955 which was instrumental in the Supreme Court declaring unconstitutional the laws requiring segregation on buses the year after. It is no surprise that during the boycott that lasted 382 King was arrested, his home was bombed, and he was subjected to personal abuse.

King was only 35 years old when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1968.

It was on one cold wintery afternoon that I visited the Martin Luther King, Jr National Historic Site in Atlanta, Georgia. That was established in 1980 with the sole purpose of preserving the places where he was born, lived, worked, worshipped, and is buried.

I was amazed at the magnitude of the historic site. If I wanted to visit all there was to see I would need more than a day. There was so much to see, but so little time so I resigned my self to visit as much as I could.

My first port of call was the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Heritage Sanctuary which was the centre of spiritual and community life for the King family. During the 1960’s he served there as co-pastor. The sanctuary

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has a history of death: After Martin Luther King was assassinated his brother A.D King was co-pastor until his sudden death in 1969, and in 1974 gun a gun man fatally shot mama King and Deacon Edward Boykin and wounded three others in the Sanctuary.

As I sat in the front pew gazing at the Alter and savouring the calm and tranquillity, it crossed my mind that Martin must had many moments when he drew strength, courage and peace of mind from this sanctuary that was built circa 1914.

My next stop was The King Centre which hosted among other things The Freedom Hall which has exhibits a gift shop/resource centre; biographical exhibits on Dr. King including his pastoral robe and sash. The Reflecting Pool built in front of the Freedom Hall surrounds the tombs of Dr and Mrs. Martin Luther King Jr., and opposite the tombs is The Eternal Flame that serves as a reminder of the Kings’ undying commitment to their community.

There was one place I was eager to see; King Birth Home at 501 Auburn Avenue, but unfortunately it was closed by the time I got there. Martin Luther King was born there in an upstairs bedroom on January 15, 1929 and lived there for his first 12 years.

My last stop was the National Park Service Visitor Centre and there I had the pleasure of sitting in the Auditorium and viewing a documentary on the life of Martin. On March 28 1968 Martin led 6,000 protesters through Memphis in support of striking sanitation workers. The march turned violent. The

on April 3, 1968 Martin delivered his final speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top” and on April 4 he was fatally shot in Memphis.

He was buried in Atlanta on April 9.

The Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site honours the man and those who live the legacy. In 1969 his wife Coretta Scott King and supporters established the Martin Luther king Jr memorial Centre in Atlanta, which later became the Martin Luther King Jr Centre for Nonviolent Social Change. In 1977 Martin Luther king was awarded posthumously the Presidential medal of freedom and in 1986, Martin Luther king Jr birthday was first observed ass a National Holiday.

His wife, Coretta Scott King died in 2006 and is entombed next to her husband.

Meeting Men at the Africa Centre

By Kemi Johnson – Communications Officer, NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Programme Photos by Ade Daramy

As Africans it is likely that many of us could have a family member or a friend who has sickle cell trait, or indeed the disease, since it is a condition that affects us more than any other ethnic group in the world. Sickle cell is a serious inherited blood disease that can cause pain and severe anaemia. Out of the 15 million people in the world believed to have sickle cell disease, approximately 10 million of these live in Africa. The condition is particularly common in West Africa (e.g. Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone) with over 4 million Nigerians affected by it.

Sickle cell disease also affects people from the Caribbean, Asia, the Mediterranean and Middle East. However, it should not be seen as a ‘black’ disease as it can affect ‘white’ people too, though less frequently.

13000 or more people in the UK have sickle cell disease.

Most textbooks or publications on sickle cell disease will tell you that the disease was discovered in 1910 by Dr James Herrick an American doctor from Chicago, but this is only when the disease first became known in the West. The first written account of this disease was published in 1874 by Africanus Horton who was born in Sierra Leone (of Igbo parentage) in 1835.

Iyamide Thomas, Regional Care Advisor, Sickle Cell Society introduces the session

New leaflet for men

The event was a successful collaboration between the Screening Programme, the Sickle Cell Society the 100 Black Men of London and Africa Centre.

The Family Legacy is an educational and entertaining British- Nigerian DVD drama which raises awareness about sickle cell disease and in particular a father’s struggle in accepting that his son’s condition could only be passed on through his and his wife’s genes. The idea of inheritance formed the basis of the discussion between the panel and audience members who were the first to receive the new Tests for Dads leaflet, which has been produced specifically for men. It explains about the test which is offered to men whose pregnant partner has been screened for sickle cell and thalassaemia and has been identified as a carrier. The night provided some lively debate and the input from men was much welcomed. The two men on the panel were both carriers of the sickle cell gene and they both gave accounts of how they discovered this. They both felt that a leaflet aimed specifically at men during the pregnancy period (known as antenatal period) would do much to involve men and help them appreciate the significance of their role.

L-R: Wilfred Wright, IT Consultant, Comfort Okolo- Retired Sickle Cell Nurse Specialist, Lenny Henry a supporter of the NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Olu Alake -President 100 Black Men of London and Liz Aram, Communications Programme knows only too well the benefits Consultant -NHS Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Screening Programme Almost 100 guests braved the freezing cold of February recently, for the launch of the NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Programme’s Tests for Dads leaflet, together with a screening of the Family Legacy at The Africa Centre, in London’s Covent Garden.

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Meeting Men at the Africa Centre continued more than 350 babies with sickle cell and around 30 babies with thalassaemia.

You can also ask to be tested for the sickle cell gene before you decide to start a family and this can be done via your GP or an NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Centre.

Service user Ade Aluko talks about living with sickle cell

Calabash Magazine Editor, Bankole Jones at leaflet launch of knowing your status. Having recently had a test himself he says: “We inherit many of our features from our parents – the colour or our eyes and the shape of our nose. Maybe less obviously, we also inherit our genes from our parents.

Sickle cell and thalassaemia are blood disorders and can only be passed on from parent to child. Remember screening is not just for women.”

Feedback from the evening is now being put together so we can engage men more.

We are also planning a special session (around June) called ‘Sickle Cell Disease – a Sierra Leonean Discovery’ so look out for the publicity or contact us for details.

About screening

The aim of antenatal screening is to identify parents-to-be who are genetic carriers in order to enable them to make informed reproductive choices. If two people who are both carriers have a baby together, there is a 1 in 4 chance that their baby could inherit a condition.

The aim of newborn screening is to identify babies who have sickle cell disease and beta thalassaemia major (the most serious form of thalassaemia). This enables them to receive prompt and potentially lifesaving treatment. Newborn screening also identifies babies who are genetic carriers. Each year, the Programme identifies

Princess Deun Producer and host of ‘Princess of Arize’ TV show reminds us not to forget the carers

Linsay Benjamin asks where men can get tested

Further information Emails to Kemi Johnson kemi.2.johnson@kcl.ac.uk Useful Websites www.sct.screening.nhs.uk www.sicklecellsociety.org www.familylegacy.org.uk Cross Section of attendees at Africa Centre event

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The Perfect Plan The film is about: Eric, who intends to divorce his wife due to her lasciviousness but she refuses to give him a divorce. Her late dad left a huge sum of money and a massive estate in her name, so she is spending money frivolously. Eric arranges for a friend to allow his so-called wife to fall in love with him so that he would have good grounds for a divorce. The plan works, wife falls in love with the friend and Eric becomes jealous and asks his friend to discontinue the agreement but the friend refuses and the love between the wife and his friend is blossoming. Eric then embarks on a plan, sets this friend up and achieves a positive result.

The main character is Adeyemi Lardner a Sierra Leonean born actor. Supporting actress is Victoria Kabia Kamara and Papa Tee is the composer of the opening party song. All the casts in the movie apparently live in America and they are all professional actors originally from Sierra Leone. The producer of the film is Collins Archie-Pearce In summary the film is one of the best Sierra Leonean have produce. It is good to watch the movie or own a copy in the movie library.

Read more in our next issue when Calabash meets with the key players and the Producer of Perfect Plan.

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D E T N A W E B TRI

By Ajara Boma

A

s part of the Sierra Leone Government’s continued effort to showcase the attractive incentives and opportunities now available to prospective international investors, Tribewanted Sierra Leone has taken the lead in coming to invest in Sierra Leone’s Tourist industry by creating one of the first Ecotourism venues in Sierra Leone. Tribewanted is a local non-profit organisation in Sierra Leone which partners with Shine On Sierra Leone, and has been working in the region successfully for five years, sponsoring 6 schools and computer centers around the country. It has also providing microfinance to over 7000 women across the country.

Tribewanted Sierra Leone has formed a partnership with the government, landowners and the local John Obey communities to create an eco village community which will in coming years support sustainable development in the area.

In October 2010 the first members of the tribe arrived on Sierra Leone’s John Obey Beach, 20 miles south of the capital, Freetown, and began to build a new community alongside the local fishing village. The project has pioneered a new building technique called ‘Superdome” developed at Cal Earth, a technique that

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uses only local earth products and materials.

They have been described locally as “a mini Gaudi village.” The first season saw the building of cal-earth dome classic and the honey dome, the sea bright solar tower, beach kitchen, first two VIP Shacks on the lagoon, and permaculture gardens.

So far three earth domes have been constructed – now used as accommodation by visiting tribe members. Along with the domes a village has been built that includes traditional wood bungalows, a solar tower and deck, permaculture gardens, beach kitchen and dining, compost toilets, bucket showers and hammocks.

For those who have visited, it is a

unique opportunity to experience a peaceful, beautiful and vibrant country that is creating a new beginning a decade after being ravaged by civil war. All profits generated from Tribewanted Sierra Leone are re-invested into the project and community, in education and microfinance.

A maximum of 30 tribe members spend a minimum of 1 week at a time living alongside a local team and the community immersed in the day to day running and development of the village. The project runs from October to June annually, closing for the rainy season. To learn more about becoming a Tribe member of visiting

the village visit Tribe wanted at www. tribewanted.com Founder of Tribewanted, Ben Keene: “After spending 9 months at John Obey I can’t recommend it enough as the ideal way to discover the best of Sierra Leone and new Africa. The beach is spectacular, the wildlife abundant and the community and culture as vibrant, intense and frustrating as you might expect.”

At John Obey you can sunbath, build, swim, cook, canoe up river, trek, fish, play beach football, share skills, teach, drum round bonfires, and eat great seafood. You’re living alongside a local community whilst connecting with a global network of likeminded people.”

Tribewanted Sierra Leone is your chance to play a part in kick-starting the right kind of tourism in a country that needs it. It has been an amazing adventure so far.”

Filippo Bozotti, Tribewanted Sierra Leone’s founding partner: “I’ve been visiting and working in Sierra Leone for five years. It’s not only one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to, it is also one of the most relaxed. The negative perception of the country is very different to the reality. It’s an addictive place – tourists don’t often come to Salone, as the locals call it, but together we are changing that.”

You can

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