Fortress magazine issue 4 summer2016 by CaribbeanFortress

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BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY ─

BUSINESS OF DESIGN:

THE PEART TWINS ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016

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EDITOR'S NOTE W

FOUNDER & CEO Gale Peart EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nerissa Golden

elcome to the FORTRESS. This edition is packed

with inspiration for lovers of architecture,

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Samantha Hay

interior design and shopping for unique

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHS

household items.

WANT Les Essentiels, Mara Made Designs, Ishka Designs Inc, Baughaus, Edgechem, Hugh Small, Kiva Alberga and Tara Wilkinson McClean

A common thread through many of the features in the Business of Design is how these entrepreneurs took courage and pivoted mid stride.

FORTRESS WRITERS

Despite receiving accolades in more respected fields they have chosen to follow their passion and entered this very creative industry. As in every issue, we recognize the organisations which are working to be good corporate citizens by giving back. We honour

Nerissa Golden - Montserrat Hanna Fitz - St. Lucia Theresa Chuck - East Asia Gale Peart - Jamaica

them for their dedication to improving the lives of those who are less fortunate around the region. I am very pleased to be joining the team producing this

COMPANY DIRECTOR Kevin Peart

fantastic magazine each quarter. In the coming issues we will be

sharing more inspirational interviews and information which we hope

COVER PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTED BY WANT LES ESSENTIELS MODELS: BYRON (L) & DEXTER (R) PEART

you can use to enhance your life and business.

Happy reading and be sure to check out our new website at fortressbusiness.co for more great stories.

Advertisers / Sponsors

MEDIA SALES OFFICE (Kingston, JA) Business inquiries: caribbeanfortress@gmail.com

Nerissa Golden

Editor-in-Chief

c CaribbeanFortress | f caribbeanfortress d CaribFortress | fortressbusiness.co

Note of Thanks to R. Christene King (founding editor) “It is sad to see you go. Thanks very much for your team contribution - from conducting the first interview with life coach Helen MacMillan to meeting with Gary “Butch” Hendrickson of National Bakery Foundation for the Jamaica-made Christmas article to carefully editing and writing articles. You will be missed. Best wishes with your future endeavours.” - SAM AND GALE

“I am all teary eyed right now. I have just read through FORTRESS Magazine and I am touched, moved and inspired. I absolutely love it. It has meaning, depth and there is no way you can read this magazine and not want to get up and do good. The writing style is sweet, the pictures jump off the pages and it’s like I am seeing 3D.” JOYLENE GRIFFITHS IRVING, Director, Corporate Social Responsibility & Executive Director,

Join the FORTRESS community >>

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| ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

CONTENTS 3

Editor's Note

Business of Design

Colouring the Gender Lines

Mellissa McHargh - Kingston, JA

10 Passion of an Architect

Damian Edmond - Kingston, JA

12 Caribbean Architecture & Building on A Budget

Kiva Alberga - Kingston, JA

15 TOP OF MIND

15 A Winning Partnership by Design

Anishka Clarke & Niya Bascom - NYC, USA

20 A Conversation with Simone Baur

Simone Aida Baur - Zurich, Switzerland

24 Connecting to A Higher Purpose

Tara Wilkinson McClean, PhD - Bridgetown, Barbados

26 Firing Up New Looks for the Home

Dana Baugh - Savanna-la-mar, JA

27 300 seconds with Mara Made Designs

24 Published by Caribbean Fortress Ltd. DISCLAIMER The publisher makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information given in editorial and advertising pages of FORTRESS Business & Philanthropy magazine, but accepts no responsibility for errors, omissions or inaccuracies for claims made in any section of this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanically, without written permission from the publisher.

Tamara Harding - Kingston, JA

29 FORTRESS: Best Seller List 30 WANT Les Essentiels

Byron & Dexter Peart - Montreal, Canada

38 Wearable Art at ASD Clothing

Ayanna Dixon - Kingston, JA

SME Feature 40 Designing Healthy Lives

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Dr. Tanya Clarke - Kingston, JA

Beautiful neck wear made of pimento wood, purple agate & leather by Mara Made Designs

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 â&#x20AC;˘

MELLISSA MCHARGH:

Colouring the Gender Lines IN THE PAINT INDUSTRY BY FORTRESS TEAM

omen in Jamaica’s paint industry are not yet the ‘norm’ and Mellissa McHargh, General Manager at EdgeChem Jamaica, wants to change that. “That is the first barrier – thinking that the industry is for men,” says

McHargh. “To overcome this the first step is to let our women, our daughters, recognise there should be no separation in thought about what they want to do in life and what they can do. They have to view jobs as gender neutral rather than gender biased.” Through EdgeChem’s Painting Programme, both men and women are gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the automotive and design industry and the company has been quietly changing the gender picture in the industry. The Automotive, Marine and Decorative Home Finishes programme called by many the “Painting Programme” was birthed by EdgeChem’s board which also established an endowment fund at the Caribbean Maritime Institute and University of Technology, to give back to Jamaican people, on the former’s 10th anniversary in 2001. Training and certification are done at the aformentioned institutions. The Programme is separated into two courses: automotive and marine painting and decorative home finishes. “What we have found though is that more participants are taking up the offering of the automotive & marine painting option as the certification received opens up opportunities for many of the participants,” explained the general manager. “Additionally, as the course is geared toward existing skilled practitioners that lack certification, we find this segment more inclined to take up the automotive refinishes certification programme.” ‘Since the initiation of the programme we have seen the involvement of women in the courses. Our first batch of graduates in 2014 had no females. However, our second round of participants saw three females enrolling and the participants actually Williams

selected to

valedictorian.’

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Allana their

WHY SHOULD WE TRUST YOU TO TAKE CARE OF OUR COMPANY?

‟

Well, what I lack in experience I make up in heart and I read for my degree, which means I can read for anything else in life...

”

A LEADER’S JOURNEY Running a business organization was not on Mellissa’s cards or so she thought. “My interests throughout my education was to focus on the field of science. To end up in business is as much a surprise to me as having become a mother.” Today the successful business leader is also the proud mother to sixteen year old Diallo and wife to fellow geologist Brian Richardson, who she considers her best influencer. In 2005, when the paint manufacturing company EdgeChem was looking for a general manager, Mellissa was encouraged to apply although she did not believe that she had

The course is making a difference in the lives of the

the prequisite industry experience. With an undergraduate

participants. Some have been able to gain employment overseas

and graduate degree from University of the West Indies, JA

due to their certification.

“Additionally, they are able to find

and University of East Anglia, UK respectively, McHargh soon

employment in our larger garages as certified operators and there

discovered that she was tailor-made for the role and perfectly

is a slight bump in their earning potential.

aligned with her personal legend.

At our last graduation, one participant came up to me with

‘During the (panel) interview when one of the board

his daughter and expressed his gratitude for having an affordable

of directors asked, “Why should we trust you to take care of

course that he could enroll in while still operating his shop and also

our company?” I smiled and bravely said, “Well, what I lack in

that he could now stand proudly in front of his daughter and let her

experience I make up in heart and I read for my degree, which

see her father ‘went to school’ and succeeded,” said McHargh.

means I can read for anything else in life. I am entering this field

The trained geologist and St. Andrew High alumna, who jumped hurdles to advance in the paint industry, said that

knowing my weakness and therefore I am a blank canvas that is ready to soak up what the industry has to offer.”’

she loves seeing the, “pride of accomplishment that makes them

Mellissa did not believe she would hear back from

want to open up other doors for themselves. Many display their

them but infact it was her ‘non-corporate personality,’ as she

qualification in their shops, and because of the course content,

calls it, that got her the job. “The one that means I would load

the ‘costing your job module’ helps them to earn properly on the

a truck or sweep the streets with the staff, as I did in my former

job they do. Because of the training they are able to operate

role at the waste management agency, was exactly what they

efficiently and as such save money.”

needed. Understanding that I could transition between different environments and social groups gave me a plus for the job. Understanding I wasn’t afraid of my opinions and the fact that I was confident enough to look them boldly, but respectfully in the eye, opened the door for me to prove myself.” Once in the door, the avid learner quickly applied herself. General management studies and financial management training soon followed at Harvard Business School with their General Management Programme (GMP). “It was as if this programme was geared towards me being a cross-functional leader and the alumna status that I gained opened up a ‘sea of resources’ across the globe to bounce ideas off and to discuss issues related to business and business operations in general.”

Painting Programme Graduates 2015 and Guest

With a radiant smile she said, “Ten years later I am a

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

confident team leader, making sure I build a team that can succeed me and contribute to our company’s growth year over year. Education is important to this plan and we invest in training our people and our customers in order to affect this growth. But throughout it all, in order to stay relevant, I read excessively (especially) material related to our industry to keep current and I enjoy mingling with the staff and our customers in their environment...I

her path in order to make mine a success.”

Pantone colours are typically announced annually. How does your company decide which new colours are to be made? Does Edgechem create its own (tropical) decorative colours?

JOB TYPES IN THE PAINT SECTOR

Paint is made pretty much like baking a cake.

also look up to my current boss, Doreen Frankson, as a mentor. She is no easy cookie, but guess what, I look at her accomplishments and measure them against my own and I can conclude that there is much I can take from

“The jobs in this sector are very exciting. It can accommodate the Prada-dressed woman, with the well-manicured nails, to women who are like me – who will sit and blow the breeze on a delivery ramp, or under what we like to call an ‘under the tree garage’. There is science in research and development (R&D), quality control and application training. There are administrative support jobs. There is manual work and the overseeing of machinery and there is sales. If you like a desk you can work in the industry. If you like the road or travel, there is room as well.” “Don’t get me wrong, it won’t be easy, because as a woman in any field, you work two jobs if you are also a mother, but how cool is it to say to your child – the paint mummy helped to make paint on your favourite sport/ rally car?

Once you have gotten the recipe right, like the one passed down by your great grand-mother, you follow it to the tee, choosing the best ingredients, in this case raw materials.

The combination

of resins, surfactants, tinters, solvents, water, biocides and pigments in a secret formulation give a batch that goes through various quality checks before being filled and labelled and released to our customers.

Some products take more time

to make, some are work horses and some require pretty icing like a wedding cake and hence why there are different price points for the products. Yes, pantone colours are announced annually, just as OEM colours for motor vehicles, and so

ADVICE

we have to keep current. The way to make sure

Her advice to women is simply to get in the game and be visible. “We have to speak loud enough to be heard and we must be undaunted.

we can supply the colour palette is making sure we have the most up-to-date pigments and tinter selections. So we work with our suppliers

But simply, as women we have to want it and not take no for an answer. In

to see what the trends are and attend paint

this industry, knowing how to be respectful goes a far way. Knowing yourself

shows to see what the market has to offer.

and the principles by which you stand allows you to gain the respect needed to succeed. The art of listening is very important, because that is how you

We categorise our paints into four segments: automotive, decorative, industrial and furniture.

know what your customers and staff wants and then you can discern what

Each segment has its own application but the

is given.”

segments that people tend to attribute to colour

WHAT IS AHEAD?

into home refurbishing.

EdgeChem’s vision is that they will continue to offer quality products that will grow the business and enable them to provide much needed jobs. Currently, the twenty-five year old company employs over two hundred people and services seven Caribbean territories. Plus, FORTRESS may have planted a seed for them to introduce the Painting Programme into those other islands as well: “Anything is possible...We after all hold our automotive clinics and workshops in the countries we now export to,” revealed Ms. McHargh.

How is paint made?

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are the decorative and industrial, as these go We add new colours

to our stock palettes every two years based on market surveys and trends. But remember we can mix any colour that your heart desires through our customisable paint service – Edgespirit.

Learn more about the company at edgechem.com

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PASSION OF AN ARCHITECT BY THERESA CHUCK

amian Edmond loves architecture. You can feel it when he

College alumnus has seen structures such as the Egyptian

talks about the good and the bad of Caribbean architecture

pyramids and speaks highly of a hospital in Martinique built to sit

and you cannot help but to be caught up in his passion as he

on shock absorbers like cars use to withstand earthquake tremors,

describes the experience of walking into some of the most

and of the Caribbean region rates Trinidad and Tobago's modern

acclaimed structures around the world.

architectural touch.

Edmond, the 39-year old founder of FORM Architects,

“Trinidad has way more modern buildings built over the

educator and independent designer for the last 10 years entered

last 15 years than Jamaica and they have far more sustainable

the FORTRESS to share insights about his dream project and

buildings using modern materials and finishes.”

how he satisfies the needs of his company’s very diverse clientele.

Sustainable and modern are not mutually exclusive in

FORM Architects is a Jamaica-based company, with a

the building’s Damian and his team create. “FORM’s architecture

satellite office in Trinidad & Tobago and a team of five architects.

focuses on having clients’ operations using low energy, being

It is arguably the most technologically advanced architectural firm

responsive to our local climate in terms of appropriate shading

in the Caribbean and exploits technology that less than 5% of the

and proper lighting; a modern aesthetic, enabling passive cooling

world’s architectural industry uses today.

based on building type, minimal destruction or modification of the

“We do not draw buildings; we create virtual models that are used to produce drawings, energy usage simulations, virtual

physical environment and it must be profitable in terms of making or saving our client’s money in their everyday operations.”

walkthroughs, instant cost calculations and photorealistic imagery

Though it is clear that both Damian Edmond and FORM

to ensure that our clients get exactly what they want,” shares

are stellar examples of Caribbean-born success, it has not always

the CEO. “No two clients are alike. Most clients have a dream of

easy. Edmond shared one of FORM's hardest moments was in

how they see things working and my job is not only to give them

2009. When the worldwide economic depression ‘hit’ and the

what they want but to give them what they dreamed they never

construction industry basically halted, this left a rather young FORM

could have. I love the initial design process and solving the design

struggling to keep its doors open. Despite this, the architecture

problem.”

startup company pushed through, and not only survived the dry

At the age of three Damian’s first signs of passion for

patch but today is building the most energy efficient building of its

architecture were revealed, when he turned his kindergarten

size in Jamaica. The 45,000 sq. ft. General Food Supermarket in

assignment of drawing a kite into a three-dimensional house

Liguanea, Kingston which broke ground in 2014, is the first to be

from instinct. His passion never waned, taking him through grade

built with 6-D design technology at its core.

school and higher education, racking up prizes from honours to

When this new project is formally unveiled, FORM will

being selected as a representative for the international student

arguably be a living advertisement for Caribbean architects. While

conference in the United Arab Emirates. The proud Cornwall

many people interested in having a new structure built tend to

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

The General Food Supermarket project is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2016 is the most energy-efficient building of its size in Jamaica.

lean towards bringing in professionals from outside of the region, FORM is proving they can deliver projects which understand the Caribbean environment. “Architecture is place specific. To produce architecture in another culture void of the local cultural practices and rituals of Caribbean people may not be the wisest choice. Architects trained in the Caribbean learn how to appropriately address such placespecific conditions of culture, climate, energy, rituals and behavior of its people. Designing a building that works for where it is is a better return on investment.” He shared his dream of designing a church that gives people an experience, which rivals what one feels upon entering the Segrada de Familia in Barcelona, Spain or the Chapel of Notre Dame, France. As he describes them, "spaces where God was thought of and designed into the placement of e-v-e-r-y stone." “To master the creation of a spiritual space is a study and focus on light because God is the light in the darkness. The way the light touches internal spaces forms the spirit of the place. The study of light, symbolism, proportions and mathematics that makes up a real church as an architectural typology is not very easy. I

Residential Design by FORM Architects

want to design a truly spiritual space - a true church if you will.” “I would invite three masters to dinner to discuss the project: Antonio Gaudi to talk about the tactility of stone and its placement without mortar; Le Corbusier to discuss creating openings to explode and diffuse light within a modern space; and Saarinen on how to make the user feel diminished and humbled in a small space unlike a towering cathedral,” he revealed. Perhaps one day, when FORTRESS readers hear about the most spiritual, energy-efficient and properly insulated church in the Caribbean, they'll know Damian of FORM Architects was behind it.

Residential Design (Aerial) by FORM Architects

See more of their designs at formarchitects.com Theresa Chuck is a polyglot and blogger who is travelling East Asia for her college gap year. Connect with her at: internationalyaadie.com

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JMMB Knutsford Branch – Investment Area | Photo credit - Wendy Khouri Chinn

KIVA ALBERGA ON

Caribbean Architecture & BUILDING ON A BUDGET BY FORTRESS WRITER

e let architect Kiva Alberga of Michael Lake & Associates into the FORTRESS to discuss Caribbean architecture,

building on a budget and her favourite Olympic event.

When did you know that architecture would be your career? Studied at the Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA) or elsewhere?

When I left Wolmer’s High School (For Girls) 5th form I had no clear idea of the career that would best suit the science subjects that I did at Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), so I opted to major in Biochemistry at Mercer University in Atlanta, Georgia. In my second year at Mercer, however, I knew that I would not enjoy Pure or Applied Sciences and that what I really wanted to do was to have a career that challenged the creative side of my personality and the love of art and design that I inherited from my Mother. I applied to and was accepted to do Architecture at Georgia Institute of Technology. It was a wonderful program and it gave me the opportunity to do my senior year at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France. My postgraduate studies for the Masters in Architecture were completed at The Catholic University of America in Washington D.C.

Is there still a distinctive Caribbean architecture? Structures that are designed by qualified architects have evolved as global architecture has evolved. Some

Caribbean architects have very skilfully adapted vernacular elements and environmental conditions to create a Modern Tropical aesthetic. Unfortunately, the majority of construction that has taken place has for many years been done by un-qualified individuals who have introduced, crude, clumsy, and unattractive elements into our (Caribbean) landscape.

How are modern concerns such as climate change/energy efficiency influencing design and construction?

Jamaicans have long been implementing ‘green’ concepts into our built environments. Rainwater harvesting, solar panels, cross (natural) ventilation, use of natural lighting, and building re-use/re-purposing are not new concepts to us. Architects are now incorporating elements of buildings that are sensitive environmental concerns. For example, low consumption (water-

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saving) plumbing fixtures, energy efficient air-conditioning units and occupancy sensors for lights among others.

Government and corporate buildings usually set the standard for a nation’s architectural status/ statement, with budget shortages an issue for many, how can these buildings still be iconic? Who takes the place if they can’t? Good design does not automatically have to be expensive. By carefully selecting finishes, especially finishes harvested or manufactured locally, the cost may be contained. In addition, prudent uses of space as well as taking advantage of our relatively low labour cost (as compared to North America) are ways to balance good design with budget sensitivity.

The care of employees is now a concern for companies in building design, what are some of the things to consider?

Numerous recent studies show that the comfort and well-being of employees have a direct relationship to productivity. Some of the things that can contribute are:

I don’t feel that any one gender needs to dominate in the field of architecture. Here in Jamaica women architects seem to have speciality practices. Ann Hodges is an example of an architect who has made a significant mark on Jamaica’s built environment with projects such as Strawberry Hill and Goldeneye. Recently, there seems to be more and more women entering the field and I expect that they will be judged on the merit of their work.

Who or what inspires your designs? What could be attributed as being Kiva Alberga (KA)'s signature mark?

Two architects whose work I admire are Oscar Niemeyer and Zaha Hadid. Niemeyer was a Brazilian architect whose work has a very sculptural quality. His most well-known work is probably Brasilia - the civic capital of Brazil, built in 1960. Hadid was an Iraqi-British architect whose work has very bold geomantic forms as well as very fluid forms. Some of her more well-known works are The Aquatic Centre for the London 2012 Olympics and The

a. Views of the outdoors; b. The ability of the employee to control their environment i.e. temperature and light levels. c. The incorporation plants and other aspects of nature into the workspace; and d. Comfortable social gathering spaces as well as area for impromptu meetings and collaborative work.

Dame Zaha Hadid recently passed away. What needs to happen for women architects to dominate and make a mark similar to hers?

For entrepreneurs working at home, how can they create a space, which is efficient, yet inspiring and professional enough to welcome-in clients?

It is important to have a dedicated space regardless of how small it may be. Investing in well-designed furniture, storage units and shelving will create a feeling of professionalism and order. The space should be comfortable temperature. Images relating to the

Hydar Aliyer Centre in Azerbaijan. Nature, organic forms and the wonders of God’s creations inspire me. In my own designs, I enjoy playing with textures and have unexpected juxtapositions of materials and colours.

State your most rewarding project, to date. Why? In 2012, my father Hugh Small asked me to design a house for him in Malvern, St. Elizabeth. It was to be

built on the same piece of land where he lived with his family as a youngster. He said it would be called Sunshine Villa just like the original house. Daddy was a dream client! The house is totally off the grid. It gets more than needed electricity supply from solar panels as well as a wind turbine. All the rainwater from the roof is collected in an underground reservoir. In addition, grey water (water coming from showers, sinks and laundry) is collected

service offered as well as qualifications may be hung on the walls.

and used for irrigation. The living spaces have an open concept

If possible, that space should be close to the main entry. You

and are separated from the sleeping spaces by an atrium with

would not want the client having to walk through your domestic

an internal garden. It was a fantastic learning experience for me.

space to reach your professional space. The ideal situation would

What makes it so rewarding is that I know my father loves it, and

be to have a separate entrance.

it is his oasis.

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10 11

What do you want the world to know about Caribbean architects/architecture? We are innovative. We can create with budgetary

constraints. We are sensitive to our environmental conditions.

Without a doubt, l am most interested in Track and Field, and to be more specific, the sprint

events. I have been fortunate enough to experience the Olympics

A top architectural writer is scheduled to visit Jamaica (Kgn & St. Andrew, Montego Bay and St. Elizabeth). What must-see places would you recommend to showcase the best representation of the island's architecture?

in person twice - Los Angeles (1984) and Atlanta (1996). Both

In Kingston, I would have to say CPJ’s Courtyard on Lady

Musgrave Road and Strawberry Hill in Irish Town. In St. Elizabeth,

Zoë. They are my raison d'être! I consider being their mother my greatest honour and privilege!

it would be Jakes Resorts and Sunshine Villa of course!

were amazing!

What is your dream project? Which three (3) persons, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner to discuss its execution?

My dream project is my beach house ‘Seaglass’. I would invite Robert Cole, my professor at Catholic University of America; Brian Alberga, a structural engineer; and the world-renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, who regrettably, is now deceased.

Sunshine Villa Deck & Deck Detail | Photo credit - Kiva Alberga

Favourite Olympic event to watch?

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Complete this sentence..."I am most thankful for..." I am most thankful for my children Christian and

ANISHKA AND NIYA:

A Winning Partnership by Design

TOPofMIND Top Productivity Tools WE ASKED THREE OF THIS ISSUE’S CREATIVES WHAT

BY FORTRESS WRITER

ARE THEIR MUST-HAVE PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS AND HERE’S WHAT THEY SAID.

nishka Clarke and Niya Bascom are the formidable pair behind the award-winning Ishka Designs, Inc. (IDI), which offers efficiently

beautiful interior design solutions with a clean and modern aesthetic.

Damian Edmond

BIMX for android and IOS because it allows me to publish my virtual model to mobile devices of my clients where

they

can

explore

their project virtually and do

walkthroughs

their

convenience.

Mellissa McHargh

Harvard Business Review is great for giving insights on

how

improve

efficiencies and productivity; managing people and just growing businesses in tight economies. practical

The real life, examples

are

a must have to enhance learning and productivity.

Dana Baugh

Mobile Apps - Shopify POS, Instagram, Whatsapp, Zoho suite, Pinterest, Lumosity, Mindly

Photo credit: ishkadesigns.com

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FORTRESS caught up with the Jamaican-Guyanese business

about it,” recalls Anishka. “So after NBC filmed it and the dust

partners during a break from their hospitality design project

settled my brother Rohan called and said, ‘You know this is

in Jamaica. Although partners in business only, their humble

going to be seen by like potentially millions of people, right?’ We

demeanor and authentic chemistry is evident and are major

were like, thank God we did not think about any of that during

contributors to their fast-growing design and photography

filming. Had that been done I think it would’ve been a little too

portfolio.

much for us or to wrap our heads around.” While working with a client in East Hampton in 2015,

As Clarke and Bascom recalls, “The best part was

they received a call which solidified how far they’d come as a

being able to share it with Niya’s son. We were together which

team.

was even better and we knew it would’ve been on Taxi TV but “We’d already done a design solution for them and were

had no idea when it would air. It was a moment when we saw it,

just at the procurement stage when a NBC producer approached

“Taxicab driva, we’re on TV!” Niya quickly added, “…but outside

us,” shared Anishka. “The timing was perfectly aligned for both

of that, and not to take away from it… I feel like okay, it is done

our Hamptons project and NBC’s shooting schedule. However,

let’s get to the next project.”

we didn’t have much to show the producer save for a rendering

They have not allowed the TV appearance to change

of what we planned to do but NBC basically said, ‘We have seen

them and chose to see the completed Hampton home feature

your work and if it is anything like what we’ve seen in the past

as a testament to their hard work. At that point IDI was on their

we trust that when we show up to shoot it will be as good, if not

third job for the same client. Niya shared that many of IDI’s projects are from repeat

better than what we’ve seen.’ And it was.”

They described their NBC Open House experience as

business. “Those are things that are important to us coupled

being amazing. “I don’t think either of us had the time to think

with building lasting relationships with clients. Along the way

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

you become your clients’ designer, counselor, friend and their

would be designing an eco-boutique hotel, preferably outside

confidante – sometimes the husband wants one thing while

of America (but not opposed to doing one within. It would be an

the wife wants something else and you almost become a

opportunity to explore all aspects of IDI’s value-added services.

marriage counselor to create a nice palette for both of them to

That is, custom furnishings, custom lighting, and curated art.

compromise. Sometimes that is very challenging. Sometimes

Plus, obviously this ideal client would be one with a budget to

there are calls at midnight from the wife saying I do not want X

facilitate this all. A property with over-water bungalows would

or Y that the husband wants. Yet IDI has to operate in a way that

be an interior design dream project they would love to take on.

provides full disclosure. So it can be a dance.”

One challenge for both Niya and Anishka is networking

According Niya, IDI client jobs are like, “a psychological

as they are both introverts by nature. While a lot of residential

trip because you are building and creating something for

business comes their way through referrals, it isn’t the same

another human being’s sense and sensibilities and that is where

for the hospitality sector. The team are very selective in the

it becomes really exhausting and challenging. Because you do

places they go and make every effort to meet the right people

not know who or what they don’t like. You literally have to give

at functions and turn chance encounters into a conversation on

projects your everything. So for every project there is a little of

how IDI can help.

us both that is left behind. It is like having local political parties JLP and PNP and everybody being in one accord and agreeing and everyone leaving the table happy and content.” When asked to define their ideal client, they both agreed that it was one who has an open mind and desirous of stepping outside of the typical interior design realm. A dream project

ANISHKA AND NIYA’S BACKGROUND Born and raised in Kingston, Anishka is a successful finance professional-turned designer. The Campion College graduate attended University of the West Indies, Mona where she studied accounting and economics. Frankly speaking, “I did

Hamptons, NYC - NBC Open House

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

them because they were easy. It was a natural trajectory since

Niya added, “I think too a key factor is being brutally honest.

I was good at mathematics.” With a bachelor’s degree in hand

She is definitely not pampering my ego and vica versa. We have

Anishka worked at Mayberry Investments Ltd as a research

a lot of synergies and commonalities. Niya noted that, “I have

analyst in Jamaica before migrating to Brooklyn, New York to

never known them (parents) to not be working. My mother is

study finance at NYU’s Stern Business School. She had met

a nurse, beautician and she also had a small chain of beauty

Niya in Jamaica through a mutual friend a few months before.

shops.” His Jamaican father was a builder and master carpenter

Upon graduation Clarke joined Standard & Poor’s (S&P) as an

who resided in Great Britain. While Anishka’s mother and father

equities and research analyst in New York City. The chartered finance analyst (CFA) designation followed. She then pivoted to interior designs after realizing it was possible to chart a new

are a physician and chemical engineer, respectively.

LITTLE KNOWN FUN FACT AND AWARDS

career path and not be ‘pigeon-holed’ to finance. At Fashion

Anishka said her business partner is an avid cyclist who

Institute of Technology she blossomed where she confessed, “I

is extremely competitive at long distance cycling as a means

love this s*t!”. Discover more how the ‘design bug’ bit Anishka

of transportation even during the winter with temperatures at

at: fortressbusiness.co

NIYA BASCOM, THE PHOTOGRAPHER AND CREATIVE DESIGNER

seventeen degrees below. Niya believes Anishka has a great sense of humor and one who is very adventurous traveling at every opportunity. “Well, there is a contradiction because she is also very squeamish.”

Niya Bascom is the company’s creative director who also captures the beautiful images that IDI is known for. His photography work has been featured in galleries, embassies and museums including Danny Simmons’ Rush Arts Gallery and the Polish embassy for Swarovski crystal. He told FORTRESS, “I have actually had a very beautiful journey as a photographer based in Brooklyn, New York. I had the privilege of being taught photography under Roy Decarava of Hunter College. Hugh Bell was another tutor as well as “Lenny” who was one of the premiere photographers who did not go the traditional career route. He was Guyanese too and, “with him I felt like I learned from the best”.

Their company’s list of awards include the Caribbean Life Impact Award (2015) and being as a Top 20 African American Interior Design firm (2012 – 2015). In 2014 they participated in the Goldman Sachs/Tory Burch Foundation 10,000 Small Business program, which engaged their loyal followers to vote. They were also recognized by a Caribbean publication, for entrepreneurial leadership in the area of design, 2013. In the words of Bascom, “…All of the awards we’ve received are beautiful but we just have to continue to stay focused and keep our heads level and move forward.” Recently we were at Ft. Clarence Beach in Jamaica two people came up to us and said, “we‘re fans of your work and we follow you”. We expressed

SECRET FOR MAINTAINING FRIENDSHIP IN

gratitude and thought, “Wow, word is getting out.”

BUSINESS

WHAT’S NEXT FOR IDI, SAY IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS?

Anishka’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged when asked about the secret for maintaining their friendship while being business partners. “We’re going to bottle it and sell it. Seriously, I think that we have opposing personalities. And maybe the yin and yang makes us work. I trust his life experiences. They have supported me coming from Corporate America - a very rigid, cookie-cut environment and both of our parents instilled entrepreneurial thinking and resourcefulness.” Their Guyanese-

IDI would love to be a global company operating and designing in multiple countries in the hospitality realm or second home (vacation property) rentals. “I think in five years hopefully being able to explore furniture design in a more comprehensive way. So rising in the ranks of interiors and hospitality design within environments that we’re familiar with and sometimes ones that we are not for then we will grow.” Look out for IDI’s signature blog. See more of their

Jamaican heritage, a similar upbringing – parental guidance, resourcefulness and strong work ethic – was also proffered.

designs at: ishkadesigns.com

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MayberryInv.com

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A Conversation with

Simone Aida Baur

Award winning interior designer and blogger and owner of Global Inspirations Design (GID) BY FORTRESS WRITER

Tell FORTRESS a little about your business – what it does, services offered, where it is based, why you started it and how many people does GID employ? Global Inspirations Design is an international award winning interior design studio and blog based in Zurich, Switzerland. It is a one-woman business, specialized in residential and small commercial projects. The key services I offer are design concepts, colour schemes, space planning, sourcing of materials, furniture and lighting as well as renovations for living spaces, kitchens and bathrooms. The name Global Inspirations Design relates to the number 3-7-14-24, which is not my Swiss bank account, laugh, but the number of places I have lived in - 3 continents, 7 countries, 14 cities, towns and villages and 24 apartments and houses to be exact. It was my first career in the hotel industry that afforded me the luxury of living in so many places. Even though I loved my first career and the travel it involved, I always had a passion for interior design and always dreamed about running my own design business. Beautiful spaces make me feel happy and I am hoping

them make the most of their space. Sometimes all it needs is a few tweaks and the addition of a bit of colour to make a space more functional and welcoming.

State top-3 reasons a prospect should choose GID? 1. Having lived around the globe and travelled extensively, I have a deep understanding of different cultures and lifestyles. This helps me relate to people of many different backgrounds and truly grasp their needs and requirements, which I then integrate into their space. 2. Not only my travels, but also my background in the luxury hospitality industry has fueled me with an abundance of ideas and knowledge of possibilities, which I use in my concepts. 3. I always stay up-to-date with the latest innovations, materials and products by visiting the major design trade shows around Europe. I therefore also have a vast network of suppliers around the globe, which allows me to create truly unique interiors for my clients.

Who is your ideal client?

to make the world more beautiful one room at a time so that more people get to enjoy them.

spend money on his or her project. S/he lacks interest in design

Wellbeing through design. Discuss. Is it achievable for start-ups on a budget?

and or knowledge and is too busy to do it him or herself. At the

Our surroundings have a tremendous impact on our

same time, I love decisive clients, who are down-to-earth, pleasant to work with and who see the value in my time and work.

Interior design can truly transform a space and improve the quality

What year did you move to the BVI and how did the kitchen design project come about?

of life of the people using it, because of its impact on our senses.

I moved to the BVI in early 2009 with my partner at the

For instance, studies show that the design of the workplace has

time. It was a big move for me, because I went there without a

an effect on people’s motivation and their productivity.

job waiting for me. Being a lady of leisure and housewife was not

health and wellbeing, whether at work, in a public space or at home.

My ideal client values quality and is able and willing to

To answer your question: Yes absolutely! It is more

really my thing, but it afforded me the time to finally pursue my

challenging to work on a small budget, but it is possible. Personally,

interior design studies with the London-based design school KLC

I offer something called interior design coaching, which targets

School of Design by distance learning. Whilst studying, I was very

private and business clients with less money to spend to help

eager to put my new skills into practice and as luck had it, one of

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my partner’s work colleagues was about to venture into building his first home and needed help. It was the perfect match! I did the design work for the entire property, the rental apartment as well as his family home. I got to design 2 kitchens, 5 bathrooms, 5 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, 1 dining room and 1 office as my first project! It was scary, but great!

What have you learnt from global travel experiences, or the Milan Design Show specifically, that has helped transform your business/influence design ideas? As mentioned earlier on, my global background strongly influences my design concepts. I refer to my style as ‘modern contemporary with a touch of nostalgia’, which means that the dominating style is modern contemporary, but I like to add a bold colour or an element of surprise to my interiors. The Milan Design show is a fixed date in my agenda and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. It’s the playground for any design enthusiast. It’s not just about new trends, but also new innovations, products and suppliers. I am always on the look out for small design companies, who produce unique furniture and objects that I then integrate into my client’s concepts.

Most memorable award, to date? Why? Without a doubt, my recent award for the ‘Most Stylish Kitchen’ in the British Virgin Islands! It was the most memorable and most emotional for many reasons. All of my projects grow on me, but my BVI project is and always will be my first ever project and it therefore holds a very special place in my designer’s heart! Also, going back to my favourite part of the world to receive this award and feeling the support from my friends and family here and there has been a truly rewarding and humbling experience.

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the most stunning hotels around the globe. I soon realised that I didn’t just want to enjoy, but actually create beautiful spaces. I had thought about starting my own business even when I was working in hospitality, so when I took the leap and started my new career from zero again, I just knew that I wanted to work for myself. Even though it has been tough and there is a lot of uncertainty when you are a solo-entrepreneur, I love the freedom to work when and how I want. Above all, the fact that I can put ideas into action without getting anyone’s approval makes it worthwhile. Particularly in interior design you would want to be able to create and communicate your own ideas to the client and not those of someone else. I always try to celebrate the small successes along the way and it is these as well as happy clients that keep me motivated.

How many languages do you speak? Which ones? I speak 6 languages (I like to talk… Ha ha ha!). My mother tongue is (Swiss) German, I am fluent in English, Spanish, French and Italian and I get by with Portuguese.

Adding bold colours with art, furniture and accessories | Photo credit - GID

What should people expect at GID workshops? They can expect to be inspired, get new ideas, a better understanding as to what interior design really is, access their own creativity and above all find their own style (which sometimes isn’t what they thought it was). This in return will help them have a clearer idea how to design and decorate their own space.

Hmmm, that’s a very interesting question. I am a bit of an idealist; I deeply care about people, animals, nature and the planet. I therefore try to be the best version of myself and help others with small kindness. With regards to my work I often ask myself how my work could impact people’s lives. I am fully aware that I am no Mandela, nor Mother Teresa, but I do believe that bringing joy to other people does change their lives. I also believe

Tell us a little about you as a person – your background, where your passion for business and interior design stemmed from and what keeps you motivated?

that our home has a great impact on our health and well-being.

Thanks to my parents, art and creativity have always

contribution to their well-being. Creating beautiful spaces, where

been part of my life and I always loved decorating and moving

Therefore by helping people of various budget levels create more beauty and comfort in their home, I think I am making a small people can relax and enjoy each other’s company is having an

furniture about from I was a little girl! I was taught to work for

impact on the wider community.

my money so from the age of 13 I started babysitting and also

What is the most important thing that running a business has taught you?

regularly went to the flea market to sell my old toys, clothes and stuff my mom gave me. I enjoyed negotiating and I never forget how I once sold a used electric toothbrush! Before my interior design studies I pursued a successful career in the luxury hotel industry. This afforded me the opportunity to live in 7 countries, travel extensively and experience some of

How do you think your business could benefit the wider community and the environment?

Never give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

If you could choose three athletes (dead or alive) to do their home’s renovation project, who would they be and why?

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Wow! Tough question, as I am not much into spectator

that grow in Jamaica in the wild…) and they can be a great way

sports. The first athlete that comes to mind is Usain Bolt, because

of bringing nature inside and improve indoor air quality, especially

if he were to make decisions as fast as he can run, he’d be my

in office buildings.

ideal client.

All-time favourite meal?

A little known fun fact about Simone is….

My late grandma’s ‘Gnocchi’… She was Italian and made

I have to organise my books according to size and I still

the best Gnocchi (potato dumplings) in the world! Otherwise, I love

love to Bogle dance.

variety… Italian, Thai, Japanese and I absolutely adore Ackee and

Do you work with music or in silence? What’s on your music playlist?

Saltfish!!

Future plans for GID?

Both but more often I work in silence since I tend to

Lots, ha ha! I would love to expand my business into the

forget to turn on the music! My playlist is heavily influenced by me

Caribbean and live part of the year there. I love the Caribbean

spending 8 years in the Caribbean, so mostly Reggae, Dancehall,

lifestyle and thoroughly miss it. For some reason I feel I can really

RnB and Hip Hop. It’s not your typical ‘Swiss’ playlist to tell the

be my (crazy) self when I am there. However, I also love Europe,

truth.

its culture, style and the abundance of inspiration especially in

Suggested design element for homeowners/corporate offices this season?

terms of design. I wouldn’t want to miss shows such as the Milan

The industrial style is very hip at the moment, but personally I would only recommend it if it fits the architecture of the building. Another trend I have noticed are house plants (the ones

Design Week for anything in the world! Connect at: simone.baur@globalinspirationsdesign.com or Instagram and Facebook.

Award winning kitchen design - Ida Crest Villas - inspired by the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands’ beaches | Photo credit - Rainbow Visions BVI

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Connecting to a higher purpose DR. TARA WILKINSON-McCLEAN BY FORTRESS WRITER

ara Wilkinson-McClean, PhD is an entrepreneur, founder

only friends get to see it. This is something you should do or

of a children's media literacy program and a Gender and

you’ll regret it!’ But for whatever reason I did not pursue it and

Media Lecturer at the University of the West Indies Cave Hill

there was a feeling of sadness that stirred in me. It bothered me

campus who loves all things design. We talked with Tara about

because I knew what they said was true.”

her experience with the Smart Homes Interior Design Challenge

Encouragement from a friend helped her to click

on Barbados in early 2016 and how it built her confidence as a

the submit button on her entry video for the design challenge

designer.

although she was intimidated by the other entries. She was

Interior design was not on her educational to do list. “I wanted to become an attorney-at-law or a writer.” After completing an Associates in Mass Communications at community college, Tara pursued a degree in literature at the UWI Cave Hill campus in Barbados and served on their publication committee. “My sense of style as a university student included denim jackets and ripped jeans with a big Afro. I even painted my own clothing. I also got into poetry, art doodles and writings. The one constant throughout my life was design. Many times I used my allowance to buy materials to design posters and buy Bob Marley posters and candles for my room. The curtains had to match the posters and even then I lived by the idea of a clutterfree life. I adopted the “capsule wardrobe” philosophy: quality basics that you can rotate; classic pieces to add or subtract, and releasing things that do not serve you,” she told FORTRESS. Tara confesses she is a “creative at heart” who is interested in meeting people at their level for development. She is passionate and dedicated to bridging creativity and development and the design challenge helped her to understand this desire more fully. “While studying at UWI, I took a short certificate course at Barbados Community College entitled, The Basics of Interior Design and found that I absolutely loved it.” Unknowingly Tara had connected to what Paulo Coelho describes as a ‘personal legend’. “The home I share with my husband was designed from scratch; comments from friends would often be along the lines of, ‘Tara, you’re missing your calling…you have the gift of design and what you do here

accepted and randomly assigned a client.

THE DESIGN CHALLENGE “We all had a US$500/Bdn$1,000 budget and products from the competition’s sponsors with which to redesign a client’s room over four days. Plus, we were allowed to work with a maximum of three friends.” Tara’s task was to redesign the bedroom of Crystal, a 23-year-old hairdressing student. “I quickly discovered that design was more than making clients happy. Design is a spiritual practice. Here is why: “I met the client at her home to see the space and to get to know her using magazines (to communicate in a nonthreatening way) since she was not talkative and I wanted to make her comfortable and relaxed. I sketched and took notes. The first thing was how to improve the flow of the space since it had only one window. It was a very small space. Crystal loved purple and turquoise. She liked to travel and liked sculptures. “My mission was to make a fancy space bringing her favourite colours and travel elements into her bedroom. Given budget limitations I opted to up-cycle existing furniture. The client was involved except for surprise elements. It was her room after all and it was important to make her feel a part of the process. It was such a family-oriented experience. By the end, I felt like I was a part of the family. “Design is an opportunity to tell your story through colour and in a visual way. I had to think like Crystal and her mom and wove “them” into the design.” Crystal’s mom could not “see”

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that it was possible to make the room “feel” bigger.

BEFORE

She thought the pieces needed to be dumped! So I got to the point in the design relationship where I said, ‘You really have to trust me. Let go of this room for a couple days’.” “The client tried to sneak a peek but we still managed to pull off the surprise.

THE BIG REVEAL “Design wise the structure was geometric. Budget wise, I painted and mounted pieces of art on the wall too so in that sense there was a little of me. Crystal and her mom loved it. “The room captured all of Crystal’s interests and wants and the room felt bigger. Her mom almost fell backwards when she saw the big reveal. She was blown away. Both the mom and myself wanted to cry. There were truly tears of happiness. During the time spent with Crystal I realized that that she simply expresses appreciation in a different way. So her gratitude was displayed by bringing food for me to eat while the dad brought Beehive, a fancy brandy, to celebrate. In the end Tara was, “relieved. It was a spiritual experience for them and for me. It was ‘the’ confirmation and confidence booster that this was indeed what I am meant to do. That I was able to have such a positive impact on others was an incredible feeling.” “We really do have people in our lives that are there to egg us on, to help support, to become the person you are meant to be. Sometimes we think on our purpose in life and think it has to be some big, life-changing thing. But really it is that subtle thing that you interface with every day that gives you just a little bit of joy. It was humbling to be the light for others whilst connecting with my purpose,” Tara shared. By the way, Tara won the Smart Homes Interior Design Challenge. Ahead for her is more designing and her annual Media Playhouse camp for kids. Connect at fb.com/tarawilkinsonmcclean

AFTER | Photo credit - Rachel Gray

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FIRING UP

New Looks for the Home BY NERISSA GOLDEN

Baughaus designs is building a reputation as creators eaving full time employment to

of distinctive products for the home. “Our aesthetic is not typical

create household collections

of what you would expect coming from Jamaica. Our designs are

with a distinct Jamaican flair was not a decision Dana Baugh

infused with Jamaican ‘roots & culture’ and although modern, still

made lightly. After spending 10 years in the hospitality industry

have the warmth of the islands. We love to reinterpret traditional

she took her time to plan out her vision for her own design

Jamaican designs and create new products using modern

business.

methods of production/manufacturing applied to traditional

“Coming from a family with a business background, I

materials or ‘craft’.”

always knew I would one day be a business owner myself; it

Current focus is building my team, ensuring that are

was a matter of when. I spent those years at Sandals learning

well trained and confident in their abilities to make the products.

and preparing for this role and finally made the move when I

After which I will be focusing on all the new products I need to

realized I needed something more rewarding and challenging

launch and introduce to the World and building our online store

than where I was,” Baugh revealed. “Once I made the decision

and presence in the market.

to leave I set a date, worked out a budget and saved for a year

Soon to be added to new and existing collections

to help make the move easier. Then once I left I moved back

are “a few lighting pieces using unexpected local materials in

home with my mother and haven’t regretted it – yet!”

nontraditional ways, a new chair design, and some soft goods.

Baughaus Design Studio is a play on Dana Baugh’s last

Of course we will continue development of our ceramics and

name but also influenced by the German school of design the

other products. Expect to see more of our design approach as

Bauhaus. “Bauhaus was founded on the principle of marrying

it relates to taking traditional craft techniques and materials and

form and function with a holistic approach to modern design.

putting a modern spin on them. Using Jamaica as the source of

The name of the company is a natural fit as my work has a

inspiration and the core of our designs.”

modern influence and not only looks great but is also functional, and made for the home,” the designer explained.

she wouldn’t mind the chance to create a unique piece for US

Baughaus produces houseware from ceramics and

First Lady Michelle Obama of TV mogul Oprah. “If I could have, I

other natural materials, furniture and lighting features. “As a

would have loved to do something for Zaha Hadid,” whose work

design studio, we focus on the business of design. Therefore,

she admired.

we not only work in ceramics, but a variety of materials. It allows

“There are moments of doubt, when I’m overwhelmed

us the flexibility to play and experiment with materials to come

and can’t seem to do it all at once. However, each day I am

up with new ideas and concepts. You will definitely be seeing us

reminded that I’m extremely blessed to be living the life I wanted

explore the use of modern technology in our designs and the

and pursuing my passion.”

repurposing of materials to give them new meaning.

Check out her fantastic collection at baughaus on Instagram.

WHAT IS YOUR MUST-HAVE MOBILE APP? 26

While Dana believes she makes products for everyone,

“Shopify POS™, Instagram™, Whatsapp™, Zoho™ Suite, Pinterest™, Lumosity™, Mindly™” - Dana Baugh, Baughaus Design Studio

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300 seconds with

MARA MADE DESIGNS BY FORTRESS WRITER

Tell us about Mara Made Designs. Mara Made Designs (MMD) is all about breathing new life into downed or felled trees that would have otherwise been

In the “land of wood and water”, what’s your favourite wood to work with? I love them all but Mango, Guango, Pimento and Tamarind have the best grain movement and always have me

burned, left to rot or dumped. My mission is to use the MMD story to help inspire others to go after their dreams.

squealing like a child when I slice into them.

Who or what influences your designs?

How did you carve out a creative space amidst schedules, budgets and bosses (husband and children)?

influence. I pay keen attention to them in everything around

I owned and ran an advertising agency before MMD

me. I’m also obsessed with the Fibonacci sequence and

and decided if I was going to be a successful creative, I couldn’t

The fractal patterns in Mother Nature are my biggest

Tessellations. They all play a role in my designs.

do both. So I shut the Agency down, and spent the first few

In mathematics, numbers in the following integer

months figuring out what in the world I was going to even create

sequence is called the Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8,

because at that point I had no idea. I can honestly say now, that

13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144… The sequence is named after Italian

deciding to focus strictly on MMD was critical even though it was

mathematician Leonardo of Pisa, known as Fibonacci.

hard to turn my back on a successful business. What it allowed

A Tessellation (or Tiling)

me to do, however, was focus my energies and pour everything

is when we cover a surface with

I had into this new venture without the stress and distraction of

a pattern of flat shapes so that

running another business.

there are no overlaps or gaps.

Which comes first as you decide what to make - the material, location, imagination, or a customer’s request? For commissioned pieces – the request comes first, then I find a suitable slab of wood (which the customer may have to wait months for because I don’t cut any trees down), then I design and carve the piece. If it’s a piece I’m making for my collection, I will spend sometimes weeks contemplating and deciding on its design because it’s crucial for me that I preserve the uniqueness and amazing qualities of each slab of wood.

"Stumpy Stooly Twins" by Mara Made Designs

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State Mara Made Designs highest point to date. Before I started MMD, I kept repeating every day all day…“I just want the freedom to be me,” which basically meant I wanted to be out of corporate and be in a position to create all day long, every day with no restrictions. Now I’m living out my dream by designing and bringing pieces into this world that didn’t exist before. With all of that said, every piece I create is a high point.

Lowest point? If so, how did you overcome it? I see all situations as opportunities to learn and grow so I’ll have to say there have been no low points for MMD.

Complete this sentence: I am grateful for… Being Jamaican and for being able to live out my life’s purpose. Being able to create every day and for having the love and support of so many people.

Suggested book/learning source for newbie designers?

Small Mirror by Mara Made Designs

YOUTUBE.

Which piece best reflects your personality? They all do. Every single piece I carve and create has a little of me in it.

What does the world need to know about Jamaican designers like you? We bring a unique, fresh and interesting approach to our work having been born and raised in such a vibrant, rich and diverse culture.

Complete this sentence: A woman, with a scandal bag tied to her head, with a powered chainsaw in hand is…

Has the response to your wood and leather jewelry collection fueled ideas for future experiments? I’m always designing new ideas in my head. I have literally 100’s in all different directions...from a houseware line to luggage to clothing.

If so, give us a hint/sneak peek on what’s ahead? I come from a lineage of shoe designers and manufacturers and so it’s in my DNA. Right now I’m having a serious urge to make my ancestors proud!! Let’s leave it at that. LOL.

“both crazy and genius!”

What is a little known, fun fact about Tamara? I’m a hardcore tomboy with a love for the feminine aspect of life. So for example, I could be at the range shooting at 10a.m and at 4p.m, I’m in a ballet class or I could be in my overalls covered in saw dust with my head tied up. And by tonight, I’m in a gown with my hair flat ironed going to a black tie event. I just get as much joy hauling on my Timberlands as I do my stilettos!!

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Discover more at: maramadedesigns.com

Erect Table by Mara Made Designs

BestSellerLIST CHECK OUT OUR TOP PICKS THE NEXT TIME YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A GREAT READ

Guango Bench by Mara Made Designs

A great piece of literature encompasses all that is and all that will be. - Jamaica Kincaid

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 â&#x20AC;¢

WANT LES ESSENTIELS for Fashionable Travel BY HANNA FITZ AND GALE PEART, FORTRESS WRITERS

t has been a longtime

One of the reasons they came to Canada was because of what

coming

the

they thought the opportunities of being abroad would bring for

opportunity to interview Dexter

their kids in terms of education, contacts, etc. Coming to Canada

and Byron Peart, the twins behind

and living in the bilingual city of Ottawa, where my Jamaican

WANT Les Essentiels, a multi-million dollar luxe travel essentials

parents had no prior reference of French, was amazing! They

company that has been quietly conquering the world of fashion

always made sure that we were grounded in our island roots but

and design. Their collection of travel bags and accessories

also made sure that we were well equipped in North America to

(belts, shoes, iPad cases, computer bags, briefcases, luggage

make the achievements that they saw possible for us.

–

and passport wallets) is inspired by timeless, functional design classics. Their exclusive interview with FORTRESS captured what others globally have merely skimmed - that of the indelible island influence and their journey from travelling with colloquial “dulcies” (old, boxy suitcases) as children to creating a high-end WANT, their very own.

Many people may not be aware of this but you are of Jamaican heritage. What was it like growing up with Jamaican parents in Canada? Dexter: We are the youngest of four children Conrad and Kevin being older - and grew up in Ottawa. Our Jamaican parents migrated to Canada in the late fifties/early sixties to complete their academic studies – in economics and microbiology. There was always a direct connection to Jamaica. We would visit once per year, even as really young children, and so we always felt an attachment to the island and

Dexter: Always have. Beth (Frances) Hibbert, our maternal grandmother, was a headmaster at Anchovy High School in Hanover and so education was something that was always of extreme importance in our family. She taught us to read and write and our penmanship had to be impeccable. Byron: Our grandfather was also a justice of the peace. I think the academia side is very typical for Jamaicans. They realized that having a great education and dedication to hard work were what it took to have what we want in life. Dexter and I had to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in economics, with a minor in fashion, at University of Western Ontario first before entering the creative industry.

grandmother (Hibbert) in Anchovy, just outside of Montego Bay,

Coming from this strong academic heritage and influence, how did you find your way to the fashion world?

and with our father’s family (Peart), in Christiana, Manchester,

Byron: Our parents recognized early on that we both

to our Jamaican heritage. Spending time with our maternal

was part of our youth culture.

had this very entrepreneurial and creative side based on what

When we wanted to wear ‘ripped jeans’ at school in

we were interested in at school - taking classes in economics

Canada our parents wanted us to wear our “Sunday Best” and

and other technical courses. We really liked selling things and

so our parents instilled in us at a young age to always dress well

building things and so we started making t-shirts and selling

because of how that would project on the family.

them to our school friends. We would come to Jamaica with a

Byron: Our parents also instilled in us being dedicated to hard work. That’s something we carry with us day-in, day-out.

You’re from an academic family with your father, Thomas Peart, being a McGill-trained economist; and mom Jean (Hibbert) Peart, an Anchovy-born microbiologist. Would you say that education was given priority then?

suitcase full of stuff (watches, hats etc.) and sell them on the beach in Montego Bay.

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

I had shown an ambition to work in fashion design and our parents sat with us when we were seventeen/eighteen years old and called their other academia friends and said, “You know it’s really important that you guys get a business degree first and if you still want to do that afterwards…” We had to get some designation under our belt and we both chose the simplest one, which was to go into economics like our father. It satisfied our parents and piqued our business brains. I also took some side courses at an affiliate university in the history of fashion and tailoring, because I was very curious about fashion. By the time we left university we both immediately started working for fashion companies.

What was your first experience in fashion like and where did you work? Byron: I went to work with Diesel and got a job, which was not a position at the time, as a Marketing Director straight out of university! I worked on their advertising, brand development and building brand awareness for four years. Dexter was working for a fashion company called Miss Sixty.

The fashion industry is not an easy one to break into, how were you able to break into an industry with brands that are well known to find your own niche and successfully find your own place in the market?

Dexter: In those years, circa 1999, the brand Miss

Byron: We were quite humble with how we approached

Sixty was new to the Canadian market and I had the opportunity

the market. We just thought that if we delivered a really great

to build the brand in Canada. By the time I left, seven years later,

product and you have a certain amount of integrity and we built

it was a billion dollar company worldwide. It was my first time

a relationship to show people that this is not only a product that

working with a brand from scratch where there was no business.

they need, but if they stay consistent with us, we will work with

We had not sold a single product yet and then turned it into a

them and help to build it. People were also fascinated with the

multi-million dollar company here in Canada and in the United

fact that we are twins, black twins, in the industry. This has been

States. This was the beginning of the business that we have

an advantage; we have been able to leverage the best elements

now been able to pursue, which was originally building other

of both of us to work through what makes an ultimate product

people’s brands and now today our own.

and brand. We are also now very visible in the market. We try

When did you have that “Ah-a” moment when you both realized that you could do this, come together and make your own brand happen? Byron: After we both worked for those brands we started the WANT Agency that distributed a number of leading fashion brands from around the world. Then we started our own brand under that WANT umbrella in 2006/7. After building other companies’ brands we had already established relationships

to make sure that we are front-facing with opinion leaders and connecting with our end-customer and the right buyers. It’s our relationships and how we put ourselves forward that has definitely helped us make the impact that we have in the market. Dexter: It’s been many years that we have been doing this, but it is really about earned trust. Over the years the market has built trust in us.

What has inspired your design aesthetic?

and had the know-how and the infrastructure with sales and

Dexter: Conrad, our brother, is an architect and our

marketing, warehousing and credit management. We were able

other brother Kevin designs modern furniture. Somehow our

to take those assets and say, “hey, we want to do our own brand”.

parents bore four children who are all in design. Our paternal

With the knowledge that we can do this; we started the bags.

grandfather was a tailor and that’s the closest thing we can

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

Byron: I would add that our travels have played a role in that as well. We have had the fortune to travel a lot to Italy, Japan and Scandinavian countries and there is a common thread with the type of design in those places. We are continually bringing inspiration back. We are really into the permanence of things. Things that are timelessly elegant. So we look back at old photos of Miles Davis or Steve McQueen or Audrey Hepburn and find references whether it is how we comport ourselves or the products that we create.

A number of your luxe luggage pieces were named after airports. There is a (Pierre) Trudeau and a Manley piece. With Justin Trudeau being Canada’s prime minister, has there been an upswing in sales? Byron: There is a Sangster tote as well! What we decided very early on, was that all of our items would be named after international airports. The Trudeau bag was the very first CAF Accessory Designer of the Year award, 2014. L-R: Byron and Dexter Peart

come up with for any reason why we all have an aptitude for this clean, designs aesthetic. From a very young age we saw that our mom, a scientist, was influenced by new technologies. Although we were the only black family on the block, we were the first ones to have a beta max speaker, a Sony Trinitron, and so on. Our mom always bought everything new, everything modern. The first car our parents drove was a 1968 Mercury Cougar. Their aesthetic probably informed our aesthetic. To this day they still live in a 1960-designed bungalow and if I were shopping for a house, I would want something similar to that as well. When I look at all of my brothers we all kind of like the same things. Something very modern but at the same time rooted in something very classic. Byron: We both live at Habitat 67, which was designed in the sixties for the world fair EXPO 67, in Montreal, and both of our parents attended the expo. Where I am going with this is, we really find that the sixties were a pinnacle moment where many things were transformative - whether it’s music or fashion or the civil rights movement. We find that we are constantly looking

bag we designed (retailing for US$1,325), which was ten years ago. Today, that bag is still in the collection, which is a testament to our goal of making a great product and making it better season-after-season. With the Sangster we were thinking of when we are going to Jamaica and we are getting off the airport in Montego Bay. When Justin Trudeau became Prime Minister we were very excited because we thought everyone would appreciate the bag so much more. We cannot say that there has been an uptick in sales as a result of him being Prime Minister but this bag has always done well. We are very happy that his surname is represented on one of our iconic pieces. By the way, we saw the making of the Trudeau bag video clip and found to be very insightful.

Let’s talk little about your Spring-Summer (SS15) collection. In Firenze (Florence, Italy) at Pitti Uomo where you paid homage to your Jamaican heritage by recreating the iconic island style home to display your products. What was that experience like and how was it received in Italy? Dexter: We hadn’t had a retail store at that time which

back at a reference from that period.

Dexter: With all the disruptions and the social movements

we do now and so it was very important for us to create an

of the late sixties, it plays very well into new beginnings and new

experience, an atmosphere that presented the brand’s vision of

frontiers and that is what we are really all about.

exploration, voyage and travel. We wanted to bring people in

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

SHOP

WantLesEssentiels.com

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 â&#x20AC;¢

â&#x20AC;¢ ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

to our community and I don’t think anything spoke more to that

which was late 1960/early 1970’s, and there was a movement

element of optimism of summer and sunshine than a small trip

called Colour Field. The movement was really about the freedom

to Jamaica.

to be able to express colour in a less than perfect way. It was

We were spending a lot of time in Jamaica in the

very interesting and felt liberating for WANT, the brand, which is

last few years and were staying at Round Hill Hotel & Villas

very specific. It’s fun to find yourself outside that specificity. Now

in Hanover, just outside of Montego Bay, and our goal was to

that we are also focusing on women we found that here is a

create a take on the Jamaican habitat with pictures that were

powerful woman, Helen Frankenthaler, who plays an important

from my house that we brought over to Florence coupled with

role in our inspiration.

little finds. But really to have something that felt like you were

At Barney’s NYC, our biggest customer in the world,

in Jamaica. We were serving rum punch to our guests. It was a

WANT was in the men’s department for the first seven years.

little bit world expo mixed with very cool, Jamaican attitude with the reggae music playing. Dexter: This really went with the stripes that we had in the collection, which was inspired, by Jamaica and our vision of Jamaica. Byron: We had come across a series of photographs from a British photographer who was shooting Jamaican jockeys and we thought that not only the look and the aesthetic of what the jockeys were wearing, in terms of colour and look, but also the attitude that those men were portraying. This was the whole reference for that collection. By the time we thought about the house for Florence it had a very strong reference and aesthetic of Jamaica. Dexter: This Jamaican jockey thing that Byron mentioned, when he saw it, he said I think I found the perfect reference for our Spring/Summer 15 collection. In those pictures there was this strong Caribbean aesthetic where people independent of how much money they had, they are able to carry their own inner sense of style and there was something about the style that they create which is arresting.

You really captured the island in a chic way. We were like “Amen!” because when people normally see Caribbean style portrayed it tends to be done with very bold colours and sort of “in your face”. Kudos for presenting Jamaica in a very elegant, memorable way. A painter Helen Frankenthaler inspired the WANT Les Essentiels SS16 collection. How did this come about? Dexter: Yes, it was our women’s collection and it was inspired by abstract impressionism. I think we always try to find something that inspires us. We are very much into art, probably not a surprise. Art is a wonderful vehicle of expression and in so many ways imitates life and so we picked a particular period,

Thirty – forty percent of the people who were shopping for our product were actually women. We impressed on Barney’s that if women were shopping for our products - women work – so women need functional products too. Women like good quality; we need to take care of the girls at the same time! That was our first entry into the women’s space, now we have products on the floors at the department store. We wanted our women’s line to reflect a strong female impressionist who we found in Helen Frankenthaler. Byron: Helen Frankenthaler was a breakthrough in that period and she was quite an impressive artist. Definitely, worth reading about her. Our (SS17) collection was a little bit of a tribute to some of the work that she had done.

What we are fascinated with is the strong back-story of everything that you create and that authenticity that reflects who you are as people. Since you have such a strong passion for architecture, has there been any Jamaican or Caribbean architect who has stood out the most for you? Byron: That’s a great question. You know what, I don’t think we have explored any of them. We have definitely referenced the physical space of Round Hill that is where we stay. This is what inspired the elegant, chic aesthetic that we brought to Florence. There is a certain mix of an international look with very old Jamaican architectural style that has inspired us. We have found inspiration in the furniture and craftsmanship of how things are made in Jamaica. I would love to find some kind of art or architect. A tour of Jamaica would be interesting and inspirational for us.

Going back to your childhood, what are your fondest holiday memories in Jamaica?

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

Dexter: We were not born in Jamaica but it has to be our grandmother because we have very fond memories of her and her being quite a force in the community. I know that she was my mother’s best friend and in a lot of ways she played an indelible role in shaping us in those formative years. I remember her teaching us how to read, how to write and smacking our hands when our penmanship wasn’t quite perfect. Today, people are so surprised that these two men have such good penmanship. It’s only because of her. On the other end, it was living in this arctic Canadian country and leaving the cold to come to Jamaica, spending our days over at Doctor’s Cave Beach and just hanging out, jumping in the water and relaxing in Jamaica. Today, my kids and I are in Jamaica three/four times a year in a similar way. Maybe what they are enjoying is a little more glamorous than my version but they will have an attachment the way I did. Byron: I remember our parents really feeling at ease with us in Jamaica and we were running around freely. Jamaicans use to call us “cruise boys”, (laughs). The idea was that we were coming off cruise ships because of the Polo Ralph Lauren we wore. (Interestingly, we have run into Lauren at Round Hill a few times). But we felt very local even though it was clear that we were not. Our parents always had that pride in that we carried ourselves as free and easy as locals.

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

You’ve mentioned Round Hill a lot. Are you aware that Ralph Lauren has a villa there.

Quick Fire Round

Dexter: We have run into him a few times.

Cool, what is he like? Any inside scoop? Byron: He seems very much at home in Jamaica and it doesn’t seem like a place of business for him.

FAVOURITE JAMAICAN DISH: Dexter: Jerk Chicken Byron: Ackee and Saltfish

Do you have any social projects that your brand currently supports?

DRINK OF CHOICE: Byron: Earl Grey Tea

Byron: In our personal lives we both play our own part but as far as our brand is concerned, sustainable materials and products is something that we pay particular attention to.

Dexter: Appleton rum punch FAVOURITE BOOK: Byron: The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell

Dexter: At the same time we do it with humility and don’t necessarily announce it but it’s very much a part of our brand.

Dexter: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee WE THANK OUR PARENTS FOR… Their support and trust.

Byron: Whether it is the organic fabric that we are working with or the leather and where we source and the way that it’s tanned. So we are doing things, behind the scenes. We give back by being socially conscious through our product development process.

You won a Canadian Art & Fashion (CAF) award for home accessories design in 2014. What was that experience like being recognized for your work? Dexter: There has been several over the years. We are a Canadian brand and in our business there isn’t a vibrant Canadian fashion industry. Canada is well known for music but in other areas, she hasn’t really built a strong name especially in fashion so we are happy to be part of the leaders in Canadian

MUSIC ON YOUR PLAYLIST: Byron: Leon Bridges Dexter: Adele-25 LITTLE KNOWN FUN FACT: Byron wears stripes Dexter wears polka dots Dexter: It’s almost exclusively! I cannot wear stripes and he cannot wear polka dots. ANY TIPS FOR START-UP FASHION DESIGNERS? Dexter: Focus, focus. Focus on making a great product and having a great story. The essence of the story and the thought process of the product is the most important. You have to have both not one or the other.

fashion. We also got another award in Canada by the Design Exchange called the “Game Changers” award for pushing the

Byron: Believe in yourself and people will believe in you.

boundaries in Canadian fashion and influencing the community. We were also featured in Top 500 in business in BOF magazine London and 100 most creative in Fast Company. We had our heads down working and other people have been recognizing that work and it’s something that we are humbled by and motivates the WANT to go further and we recognize that we are one of few people of colour on that list and those things empower us daily.

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

AYANNA DIXON

Wearable Art at ASD Clothing BY NERISSA GOLDEN

SD is simply the initials for fashion illustrator Ayanna Sade Dixon, who creates what she

describes as wearable art. Started in 2010, ASD is now one

Jamaica’s

most

popular

fashion houses, creating unique illustrations for the apparel it produces. “I’m many

inspired

things;

places,

by a

memory, and even people,” the designer said about her source of inspiration. “I think it depends on what is happening around me at a particular time. Inspiration can come from many different avenues; it really depends on what vibration you’re tuning in to.” The

opportunity

dress American

actress Kerry Washington, who has Jamaican (St. Elizabeth) roots, would put Ayanna over the moon, as she believes she is a good fit for the ASD brand. “I like to think of my brand as one that empowers women to follow their dreams to be strong, independent and sexy, and I believe she represents that.” She

considers

herself

her

favourite

designer but also enjoys the work of Donna Karan, Cushnie et Ochs and Marchesa. “I love the elegance and sophistication of Donna Karan, the sex appeal and freshness of Cushnie et Ochs and the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the Marchesa team,” she explained. Photo Credit: http://asdclothing.wix.com

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

This November 2016, ASD will launch its newest line at Collection MoDA in Kingston, Jamaica. Ayanna is hoping that her current campaign to raise funds online will help her bring the collection to life. “When I heard about the JN crowdfunding platform, iSupportJamaica.com, I thought it would be a great opportunity to try to raise funds for my crossover product. The whole concept behind crowdfunding is everyone contributes something small, which eventually adds up. Very excited to see my dreams come to reality, and hoping that everyone will feel like they’re a part of my new collection,” she told FORTRESS. While she still has some ways to go to reach her US$6,000 goal she has faith that the crowd will get behind ASD and fund the project. Currently part of the Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship in the Caribbean, the young designer said the lessons since choosing to go full time as a business owner have been many, “The best ones I think are making sure you aren’t too hard on yourself, and always keeping a positive mindset/outlook. Becoming your own boss has many great moments, but these moments go hand in hand with hard work. With a positive mindset you won’t be too hard on yourself, and you can keep working towards those great moments, says the designer who trained at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts (Kingston) and The Art Institute of New York. This iPhone lover says her must-have mobile app is a toss-up between Trello and Instagram. “Trello keeps me organized; I’m always on it. Instagram is great because I get exposed to a range of different types of imagery from all over the world. I follow top designers and illustrators, my interests and hobbies like fishing experts, scuba divers and wildlife accounts, and of course, my friends and family. Follow Ayanna (ASD)’s journey and get sneak peeks of her new collection on facebook.com/ asdclothing.

fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

Designing Healthy Lives

DR. TANYA ROXANNE CLARKE BY CHRISTENE KING

ith the intensity of

They are in charge. So when I talk to my patients, I tell them

Rio 2016 on the

that ‘we are going to do this.’ So it’s me and them, we are in this

minds of Olympic fans around

together.”

the world, a lot of attention is on the

In addition to wearing many ‘hats’, she somehow

athletes coming out of Racers Track Club

managed to design Platinum Health Centre’s office – an upper

in Jamaica. This is the same club, which birthed

ground floor space; 750 square feet in measure - from thought to

the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt. It is also the

finish - to facilitate the health needs of her patients, associates and

training base for Antigua & Barbuda’s fastest athlete Miguel

suppliers alike. The waiting area, patients' rooms and business

Francis. Likewise Kim Collins of St. Kitts & Nevis. Operating

logo are inviting. Her children’s framed art and students’ tokens

behind the scenes is Dr. Tanya Roxanne Clarke, one of the key

of appreciation decorates the office walls including a sentimental,

directors of the Club’s success.

9.58 montage - not of Usain, as one might think, but of ‘Doc’

Dr. Clarke provides medical services on a volunteer basis to the Racers Track Club, where she offers medical

herself. Such is the power of the mind, a mind that could easily embark on a challenge to outrun the Living Legend.

evaluation and pre-performance clearance for athletes having

Clarke’s love for athletics, she says, stemmed from her

completed a course on periodic health evaluation of athletes at

father, the late Justice Neville Clarke, being a Kingston College

the 2012 Olympic Village in Lausanne, Switzerland.

(KC) Old Boy. “I didn’t miss Boys Champs; I didn’t miss Gibson

While Tanya does not deal with the athletes’ injuries

Relays because we had to be there for Daddy. Even now when

at Racers, she provides a holistic approach when attending to

I go to Boys Champs, I may have a favourite athlete in another

the athletes and coaches. Working as a member of the JAAA

school but I am rooting for KC.”

Medical Committee, Dr. Clarke helps to provide medical help and

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

coverage for athletes, as well as educate them about doping and other issues pertinent to the sport.

FIRST CLASS MEDICAL CARE

Her academic career is dotted with numerous firsts and successes. Tanya completed her undergraduate medical training at the University of the West Indies (Mona) becoming the first

In 2012 Dr. Clarke started Platinum Health Care, which

female and the second person to graduate with distinction in the

provides a wide range of medical and executive health services

history of the institution. She was subsequently awarded the first

care services for adults. They also have a cadre of medical

Prime Minister's Youth Award for Academic Excellence.

doctors and specialists in complementary disciplines.

The first Lady Bustamante scholar is also the proud

“We truly care and we are thorough,” Clarke said of

recipient of the UWI Vice Chancellor’s award for the highest

her business. “I believe a lot in patient education. I think it’s

grades on the three regional campuses in all the faculties. She

empowering and when people are aware of the situation they

received both the preclinical and clinical medals, which are given

want to prevent, they are a lot more compliant and feel better

to the top student and she was also her class valedictorian.

about themselves. There is no fear of the doctor or the medicine.

More awards came her way during post-graduate training at Yale

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

University, Connecticut and The Cleveland Clinic in Florida, where she completed her training in Internal Medicine in 2005. As a Internal Medicine specialist, Dr. Clarke has been a lecturer in the Department of Medicine, University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, and the hospital (UHWI)’s consultant physician, since 2005. Her special interests include cardiovascular disease and cerebra-vascular/stroke prevention and management, hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes management, infectious

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New Jersey, while Daniel 14, Giselle 11, and David 10, attend Hillel Academy in St. Andrew, and are avid players of squash, gymnastics and chess, respectively. Mom Mary Clarke, Jamaica’s first Children’s Advocate, helps with after-school schedules. Being an avid runner is what allows Clarke to maintain successes in all areas of her life. As a member of the Jamdammers Running Club, she has run a number of marathons over the years. While her current schedule does not allow her the time to train for marathons she continues to run two or three times a week.

LITTLE KNOWN FACTS “Rihanna is my favourite artist,” she confesses. While other people were gearing up for Jamaica’s General Elections in February 2016, she was waiting on Rihanna’s latest album to be released. “And I am going to her concert,” she added. Dr. Clarke says she identifies with Rihanna’s “anti-apologetic” stance and “she is just herself.” Another of her favourite things to do is to travel to a big city and, “be anonymous. Getting lost in the crowd, with all labels gone, mommy label, doctor label, lecturer label…” clubs, from charity health fairs to volunteer medical care to the underprivileged, offered advice to young people: “Don’t limit yourself: Dream: believe and achieve. Whatever you want to do you can do! My children know those three words: Just do it!” ❚ Connect with Dr. Tanya Clarke and her associates at: (Edited by Nerissa Golden)

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fortressbusiness.co | ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 •

GUESS WHO REVEALED! ISSUE 3 REVEAL: MARLON SAMUELS

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to MIT as an Ivy League institution. While the university

is prestigious it is not an Ivy League institution. Thanks to Marsha Whyte, a John Hopkins alumna, for bringing this error to the publisher’s attention. (page #17)

2. Alia Atkinson - Alia is a Short-Course World Champion. (page #31) 3. Alia Atkinson - We mentioned that Alia's world record of 1.02.36 was set in 2013, while this is correct, this

world record was set as a short course world record, meaning the race was swam using the width of the pool. The Olympics games, however, uses long course

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PUBLISHER’S CORRECTIONS (re: Issue 3) 1. The Hakeem Angulu Story - We inadvertently referred

NAME (First and Last):

PHOTO CREDIT: Christopher Lee-IDI | gettyimages.com

• ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2016 | fortressbusiness.co

meaning races are swum using the length of the pool. You could probably compare this to indoor and outdoor in track and field, where the track sizes are different. We thank Alia's mom, Sharon, for pointing this out. (page #31)

ScotiaVolunteers in Montego Bay, after painting the Garland Hall Place of Safety, Anchovy, St. James on National Labour Day 2016.

Why We Volunteerâ&#x20AC;Ś

Volunteering is an awesome and humbling experience. The many projects that we support provide great opportunities for us to give back to our communities and it makes us want to do as much as we can. - Christine Lamont, LENDING SERVICES UNIT We get an opportunity to touch the lives of many people, so I appreciate Scotiabank for giving us the time and providing the resources to help build a better Jamaica. - Kerine Campbell, SCOTIABANK PORT MARIA Volunteering is something I love to do; I am not doing it to be recognized but because I want to make a difference and I am sure that Scotiabank feels the same way too. - Andrea Reid, SCOTIA JAMAICA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY Volunteering is part of our DNA at Scotiabank. It is exciting, it is fun, it gives us a sense of wellbeing and most of all, and we get great satisfaction in connecting with people in ways that leave them hopeful and inspired. - Peter Mohan, SCOTIABANK ST. ANNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BAY As Scotiabankers we value working for our organization because it has a strong and genuine commitment to the community and Scotiabank actively supports our participation as volunteers. - Joylene Griffiths Irving, MARKETING & CORPORATE AFFAIRS AND SCOTIAFOUNDATION

FORTRESS magazine is published by Caribbean Fortress Ltd.