GEM 59 October / November 2013 by Corbin Media Group

Guyana’s Premier Guide to Entertainment, Culture, Fashion, Sports, Beauty and Real Game Changers October/November 2013 | Issue 59 | A Bi-monthly Publication

GU YANA’ S

GEM

40 UNDER 40

E-NETWORKS Celebrates

TEN YEARS The

Issue 59

Dining Guide

Top Eateries to Visit

SSignal Productions’

Jazz & Soul Concert

Digicel’s 2013 Senior Caribbean Squash

CHAMPIONSHIPS

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

1-ON-1 with Hollywood Actress

Rhona Fox the

Exploring

WALTER ROTH Museum of

Anthropology

GY$1,200 | US$5.99 BD$12 | CN$5.99

Contents GEM

LETTERS TO GEM What readers have to say about the last edition

PUBLISHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTES Welcome to the 59th Edition of GEM

SPOTLIGHT The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

PERSONALITY Marcelle Shewjattan

EMANCIPATION 2013 Honouring our Heroes of 1823

E-NETWORKS Celebrates its 10th Anniversary

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40 GEM recognises 40 people under the age of 40 years

THE HIT LIST The G.M.R.S.C. Racers 2 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Guyana's Premier Lifestyle & Entertainment Magazine October/November 2013 | Issue 59

1-ON-1 with Hollywood Actress

Rhona Fox

COVER CREDIT

34 Page

The photo of Rhona Fox was taken exclusively for GEM by Zack Cohen. Make-up: Amena Aziz. Location: Manhattan, NY

Contents II GEM

Guyana's Premier Lifestyle & Entertainment Magazine October/November 2013 | Issue 59

GEM HUNK Meet Anthony Pires

GEM BEAUTY Meet 23 Year Old Tiffany

ICON Arif Ali - Hansib Publication

HEALTH BEAT The Amazing Health Benefits of Green Tea

NAYA ZAMANA 18 A Theatrical Presentation

BODIES OF STEEL GABBFF Senior Competition

FASHION Sydney Francois Creations

SAVVY SISTER Does Size Matter?

TRAVEL Exploring the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology

AROUND THE WORLD ON A PLATE Mexican Cuisine

SSIGNAL PRODUCTIONS' Jazz and Soul Concert DIGICEL's 2013 Senior Caribbean Squash Championships THE DINING GUIDE A Guide to the Top Eateries in Guyana

37 40 43

GEM PLAYERS Nathalie Hing

RECIPE Cream Puffs

MACAELA'S CATWALK Kristian and Mark fill in the blank!

LAST SEEN HERE Random pictures of people and events. Were you there?

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The Future is WoW!

Celebrating Guyana Since 2004

Issue 59 | October / November 2013 FOUNDER & PUBLISHER Simeon L Corbin MANAGING EDITOR Coretta Corbin-Rival ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Tiya Peterkin LAYOUT AND DESIGN Mark James SALES & MARKETING Simeon Corbin Tiya Peterkin Sophia Ramphal INTERNATIONAL SALES & MARKETING Director Coretta Corbin-Rival INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION Director Michelle Corbin CONTRIBUTORS • Coretta Corbin-Rival • Michelle Corbin • Carl Croker • Donna Shortt-Gill • Tiya Peterkin • Sophia Ramphal • June English • Arian Browne • Salima Bacchus-Hinds • Mark Andrews • Macaela Cameron • Giselle Ming Ramlogan GUYANA AND THE CARIBBEAN GEM | P.O. Box 12396 | Georgetown | Guyana P: 011.592.225.1738 / 226.0540 / 624.2751 E: info@GemMagOnline.com W: www.GemMagOnline.com F: www.facebook.com/GEM.Guyana SUBSCRIPTION Guyana GYD6,000 Caribbean & North America USD45 Rest of the World USD50 http://www.gemmagonline.com DISTRIBUTION To sell GEM at your business, please email sales at sales@gemmagonline.com

Let CMG customise an international quality publication for you or guide our readers to your products and services through our network of print and digital magazines. 48 Sandy Babb Street | Kitty | Georgetown | Guyana Phone: 225-1738, 226-0540 E-mail: sales@corbinmediagroup.com sales@gemmagonline.com admin@gemmagonline.com

INTERNATIONAL SALES AND MARKETING Corbin Media Group P.O. Box 357, Boston, MA 02137-0357 Phone: 617.833.7482 Email: gem@corbinmediagroup.com MEMBER Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Guyana Press Association (GPA) Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) ISSN 181-2019 Six times a year, GEM delivers the latest trends in business, charity, art, interior design, real estate, culture, cuisine, sports, entertainment, parties, fashion, events, beauty, weddings and travel. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to GEM’s rights to edit.

Letters to I enjoy your magazine immensely and liked the feature on Charmaine Blackman. In my opinion, putting her on the cover was long overdue. I remember well her appearances with the Yoruba Singers and later with other bands. She really deserves a National Medal for her longevity in the music industry and being one of the few patriotic Guyanese singers out there. – Lorraine Gibson, Brooklyn, NY I read with interest the article about the health benefits of rich yellow mustard in the August / September issue of GEM. I learned from my grandparents while growing up on the West Coast of Berbice that certain foods had certain health and medicinal remedies. As children many times we didn’t want to take them especially carrilla, but as adults I now can appreciate the many positive effects of these natural foods. - Emma Braithwaite

We welcome comments, criticisms and ideas from you. Let us know what you think about this edition. Send comments to letters@gemmagonline.com. All letters may be edited for space, clarity and civility.

It’s a huge step forward for an institution in Guyana to be tackling autism in such a big way. Hats-off to the Step by Step School for their efforts to deal with this disorder that afflicts a percentage of children. I know there are other institutions that try also, but sadly, those in authority and society at large still seem unprepared and uncaring when dealing with children who have neurological and developmental issues. I would love to see the day when our society use some of that “Guyanese hospitality” that the tourism industry always seem to be willing to shower on visitors, be used on the less fortunate children in our society. – Peggy Mohamed Congratulations on a consistently well done job; GEM magazine is both informative and nostalgic. I appreciate getting to revisit the country and be a part of the many events on your glossy pages. – Rick Hanson, Seattle, Washington I regard GEM as one of the finest magazines ever to be produced in Guyana, but I have one question that has bothered me over the years. Why only 3 - 4 “Letters To GEM” in every issue? Is it because of space limitations? I am sure that more than 4 people have opinions on each issue and they would like to express them. Is it possible to at least double the amount of letters in every edition? Thank you for publishing an enjoyable and informative magazine. Keep up the good work. – Afsanah Ryad, Queens, NY OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 7

Publisher's Notes “My country, right or wrong; if right, to be kept right; and if wrong, to be set right.” - Carl Schurz As far as Guyana reaching its full developmental potential, I will be the first to admit that there are miles to go before we rest. But for these young entrepreneurs, professionals, artistes, designers, sports personalities and politicians, the benefits of living in a culturally diverse, mineral and agriculturally rich country seem to prevail over the uncertainties that loom elsewhere. Those individuals featured are just the tip of the iceberg. Unfortunately, space would not permit us to list more at this time, but do not despair, we will definitely run more features on fresh groups later. Our cover person for this edition is New York-based actress and businesswoman Rhona Fox who at age 33 is also a member of the under 40 crowd.

Dear Valued Reader, Thank you for picking up the 59th edition of GEM. In this issue, we invite you to meet some of our enterprising young people who are under the age of forty. This is the first time in Guyana a magazine has attempted to recognize this demographic in such a bold and comprehensive way. It goes without saying how tedious the process was as we had to maneuver around peoples’ busy work and family schedules to get the required information and pictures. Nevertheless, it was all worth it. As you know, any opportunity we get to showcase the positive people and things happening in Guyana and the Diaspora, we are happy to oblige.

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Rhona is among the list of rising stars in Hollywood, having already appeared in a number of TV dramas, commercials and movies. She also runs a management / PR company for a number of international singers. Her feature on page 18 should be a good read. We also highlighted some of the best restaurants around town in a special, “Dining Guide” section. I hope that more eateries will come onboard to help make this a regular feature in GEM. For more exciting features, people and events browse the glossy pages of issue 59. See you around town!

Simeon L. Corbin Founder & Publisher

SPOTLIGHT

The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Text and photography: Submitted GSPCA New Building at Bourda

he British Guiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was established in 1903 by a group of expatriate volunteers after witnessing the ill treatment and suffering meted out to animals everyday in the streets of Georgetown. With no building to operate from, these volunteers carried out the Society’s work from their individual homes. In 1953, mainly through the efforts of Mrs. Jean Wilson, and assisted by her architect husband, the first building to house the Society’s animal clinic was erected. After independence in 1966, the organization’s name was changed to The Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Mrs. Wilson’s motivation to establish an animal Clinic was fuelled by the numerous scared, starved, diseased, injured, unwanted and uncared for dogs and cats; and, dray cart horses suffering from the heat, overloading and the lashing rope-rein; monkeys kept in dirty cages chained with leather belts which sometimes rubbed them raw; and birds being packed into small cages to be sold. In the beginning, the responsibilities of the Clinic were carried out by a Resident Superintendent assisted by a Chief Inspector, a Veterinary Officer and a panel of volunteers under the charge of a management committee. The Society continued to function vibrantly until the mid-1980s when it experienced a decline, mainly due to increasing financial problems and not enough volunteers. The Society nevertheless continued to function under the watchful eye of Mrs. Elsie Taylor, even though the Clinic’s physical environment had greatly deteriorated. 10 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Mrs. Taylor’s steadfast work to recruit volunteers and optimism paid off when in 1992 a group of individuals committed to see animals protected, agreed to serve as volunteers and eventually committee members. In 2000, a new and modern building replaced the old Clinic building with the help of several donors including the government of Guyana, Dominique Ahmad and Family, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Beepats. After the construction was completed, additional sponsorship was received from Acme Photo Studio and the Fernandes Family in Memory of Alda and John Fernandes. The newly constructed Clinic and Shelter was officially opened on the 10th of October 2000 by the Societies Patroness Mrs. Janet Jagan and was equipped with a surgical theatre, recovery room, two consultation rooms, and ICU, mortuary, caretakers’ quarters along with a waiting room and office. The new Clinic also has a total of 38 pens located both at the front and back of the main building, several runs and a large enclosed area for exercise. Since its revival, the GSPCA has once again become a vibrant and active part of the community, championing the rights of animals in many forms. The Society functions under the Friendly Society Act and is overseen by an Executive Committee and run by a Clinic Administrator and eight other members of staff. Today, the GSPCA continues to provide low cost health care to animals such as vaccinations, deworming and treatment for minor injuries and illness. We also investigate animal cruelty, facilitate pet adoption,

educate the public on responsible care and treatment of pets, provide low cost boarding services, shelter to unwanted animals, humane euthanasia to injured and sick animals both within and outside the clinic, and offer free spay and neuter procedures to prevent unwanted animal pregnancies and thereby reduce the number of unwanted animals, which usually become strays. Challenges: The GSPCA still faces many challenges including negative and sometime uninformed public perceptions of humane euthanasia. Also many persons bring their unwanted animals to the Clinic and still expect the Society to keep all the animals or find homes for them. Of course, finding good homes for unwanted animals is rare since members of the public are not likely to adopt common breed dogs (the usual kind brought to the Clinic). Further, as the Shelter has limited accommodation for animals, keeping unwanted animals for long periods is often not possible. Another challenge has been trying to combat myths persons have about animals. Firstly most persons are not interested in animals unless they serve a particular purpose, guard dog, cats that catch mice etc and many persons still have these antiquated beliefs that to get animals to perform in this capacity they have to treat them a particular way. If you starve the cat it will catch mice, if you lock your dog in a kennel all day it will be a good guard dog or cutting a pit bull’s ears will make it more vicious The GSPCA also works hard to promote its spay and neuter programme in which the Society offers these procedures at no cost to pet owners. The Spay and Neuter Programme helps to reduce unwanted animal pregnancies, and by extension, the number of unwanted and uncared for dogs and cats. The GSPCA hopes that this intervention will reduce the number of stray dogs and cats. Laws: At present, we are working with the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture on The Animal Welfare Act which we anticipate will result in more modern and effective animal welfare laws in Guyana. Funding: The GSPCA receives an annual Government subsidy of $400,000 (about US$2,000). While the Society does some fundraising, it is heavily dependent on donations as the services it provides through its Animal Clinic and Shelter are not meant to realize profits.

Mr. and Mrs Wilson

Hopes: That the Society could establish a foster program to assist with adult dogs that are waiting to be adopted or may require a period of treatment before being spayed and neutered; and for pups or kittens under 6 weeks of age that are too young to survive in the Clinic environment. Executive Committee Members: President – Oliver Insanally; Vice-President- Jeniffer Falconer; Treasurer – Dominique Ahmad; Secretary- Shiromanie Isaacs; Secretary/Treasurer- Laleta Sivanand; Committee Member- Rabindrananth Sivanand; Committee Member- Dr. Steve Surujbally; Committee Member-Dr. Nicholas Waldron. Projects: From time to time, depending on several factors including pen space and funding, there are unique circumstances in which the GSPCA can take on project dogs. These are animals that come to us in terrible condition requiring months of rehabilitation but something about their personalities catches our attention. In these instances, rather than euthanize the animals, the Society tries to find persons willing to fund these projects. Once the rehabilitated animals have recovered, the Society tries to provide a home for them. Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8a.m to 5p.m and on Saturday, 8a.m to 1p.m with the exception of Sundays and public holidays. Contact information: Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) Address: 65 Robb and Orange Walk Bourda, Georgetown, Tel # 226-4237, Email: guyanaspca@yahoo.com, Website: www.gspca.org.gy. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 11

PERSONALITY

Marcelle Shewjattan Photography: Submitted

Job: Proprietress, Manager of Auto Fashion Favorite dish: I don’t have just one, I love our local cuisine! Bake and saltfish, Dhal, rice, coconut choka with fried fish, duck curry (my husband is the best duck curry cook I know!) and the list can go on.... :-) Favorite movie: The Notebook. Favourite singer: Shania Twain

GEM: What have you been doing with yourself since the Miss Diwali Pageant? MS: It has been 20 years, so lots! Back then, I was still a second year University Student. I graduated in 1995 with my Degree in Business Management, got married in 1996. I’m now the proud mother of two boys, Christopher, 17 and Shane 14. I help my husband to manage our business, Auto Fashion. Work and Motherhood keep me pretty busy but I must confess that I still love being involved in pageantry. From time to time I’ve been asked to judge, train, sit on planning committees and give advice in whatever areas I can and I love it as much as I did 20 years ago. It is still part of me and I still get some sort of thrill when I’m involved. GEM: What’s your opinion on the difference in pageantry back when you were taking part and pageantry now? MS: The Miss Diwali Pageant was the sole pageant in Guyana in the early 90's. While it was a pageant open to all ethnicities and religion it was part of the Diwali

12 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Celebrations and it was a Sari Pageant. Now we have so many more pageants and while I love the diversity, sometimes I think we have too many pageants given our small population. I think I counted approximately 15 pageants one year! This can sometimes dilute the participation that we get and sometimes we get just a handful of entrants in each pageant. I remember in my pageant there were 18 contestants who participated. I had to work hard for my crown! However on a positive note, I find the pageants have evolved a lot more over the years and now there is a lot more pressure for the girls to be well rounded, talented and smart. I was very impressed with the rigorous competition and judging at the local leg of the Ms Jamzone pageant recently. Kudos to that committee! GEM: Now that you’re not in pageantry, how do you spend your time? MS: Ahh, motherhood is a full time job! The boys, both at Queens College, keep me busy with their schedules. Between, work, and guitar lessons, piano lessons,

badminton, basketball, I hardly find time to relax. But I wouldn’t change a thing. I count myself lucky to have this life. GEM: What have you learnt from your experience in pageants? MS: I’ve learnt to be confident! Before winning the pageant, I was a shy 19 year old. My training and pageant preparation taught me confidence. I truly believe that beauty comes from the inside and it was my confidence and inner beauty that allowed me to shine from amongst 17 other beauties. I’ve also learnt that "failing to prepare, is preparing to fail", a lesson I've taught to my sons today. The road to success is paved with hard work. Nothing comes easily. GEM: What’s your signature scent? MS: I love Bvlgari Rose Essentielle. This rosescented fragrance is the ultimate expression of luxury and femininity. I’ve been hooked on this scent ever since I discovered it 5 years ago. GEM: What is the best part of being a mother? MS: The rewards are many. But I would have to say their unconditional love is surely the best part! I’m their Mom and I know I’m loved regardless of how I look or what I do. They are going to kill me for saying this in public but as old as they are, I still tuck them in at nights before they sleep and I know when I hear "Goodnight Mom, I love you! “Its genuine! Being a mother is just priceless and amazing! OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 13

Emancipation 2013 Honouring our Heroes of 1823

Photography: Carl Croker, Donna Shortt-Gill and Arian Browne

Guyanese of all walks of life celebrated Emancipation around the country and at the African Cultural and Development Association’s (ACDA) annual event at the National Park in Georgetown. This year’s theme was “Honouring our Heroes of 1823.” The Association also celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, and its 19th as host of the Emancipation Day Festival.

The iconic Eddy Grant (right) poses with fans

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(L-r) H.E. President Donald Ramotar, Managing Director of E-Networks Vishok Persaud, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Director Rakesh Puri.

Celebrates its 10th Anniversary and the Launch of DreamTV, OnFiber and Control4

by: Macaela Cameron Fernandes

-Networks, the Pioneer of IPTV in Guyana, celebrated its10th anniversary and the launch of DreamTV, OnFiber and Control4 on Friday, August 30 at the Georgetown Club. Many astute and respected politicians, businessmen and women were in attendance, including: H.E. President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, noted musician David Martins and representatives of ESPN and the Turner Group of channels. Since its launch in 2003, E-Networks has revolutionised the Guyanese technological landscape with the availability of its Internet, digital IP television 16 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

and information technology services.With a humble beginning and only two staff in 2003, the company has since grown to over 100 employees today. Priding itself on bringing innovative services to Guyana, E-Networks has introduced Cable TV service in 2007, which only had 12 channels that were quickly increased to over 80 channels in 2010, as well as its 4G Wimax Network in 2010, that created a niche market for consumers requiring portable internet and data services. The company also strives to expand its service coverage to little serviced areas such as Berbice, as it did earlier this year, and other outlying regions in the near future.

Managing Director of E-Networks Vishok Persaud 3rd from right and Director Rakesh Puri 4th from right pose with employees who were awarded plaques for their outstanding commitment and service to the company

At their anniversary celebration, E-Networks unveiled 3 new products that are on par with First World technology. OnFiberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; their new internet service - uses the latest in fiber optics technology that guarantees the fastest and most reliable internet connection of up to 10 megabits, which can be twice as fast as DSL and 4 times faster than WiMax. These high speeds can be used in many ways, such as instantaneous browsing, and high definition downloading and streaming. DreamTV, and OnFiber supported service, allows users to view High-Definition (HD) channels, which will provide a clearer, brighter picture than regular TV. With DreamTV, individuals are privy to Video on Demand and DVR programming features, hundreds of digital channels, and 20 HD channels, including HBO, Max, Sony Entertainment, CNN, ESPN, and CBS.

marked their official partnership with HBO, which will include 21 channels, many of which are High Definition channels. To show their support for this momentous occasion, HBO provided party favours of authentic HBO merchandise including pens, key chains, notebooks, water bottles, DVDs, CDs and other unique merchandise. In its decade of existence, E-Networks has transformed Guyana with its communication amenities, and with the additions of DreamTV, OnFiber and Control4 to its roster of services, E-Networks continues to realize the impossible.

Its other new service, Control4, is the ultimate automation solution which enables you to control everything from lighting, music, video, A/C, generator, security from a single device. The system can be designed for your home or business according to your needs, lifestyle and budget and can enhance your life and work with added comfort, savings, convenience and peace of mind. Other noted guests in attendance were Mr. ShakaHislop, former World Cup player for Trinidad and current ESPN football analyst, who spoke highly of the flourishing relationship between E-Networks and ESPN; as well as Mr. Irwin Inman, who represented the Turner Group of Channels and congratulated E-Networks on their professionalism and commitment to outstanding service. At the 10th anniversary event, E-Networks also

A bevy of beauties mingling at the 10th Anniversary Party OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 17

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

1-ON-1 with Hollywood Actress

Rhona Fox

hona Fox was born in Guyana on November 2, 1979, before moving to the Bahamas with her parents and two older brothers, Sean and Ron at age ten. After graduating high school at sixteen, she moved to New York for a summer vacation where she later enrolled in college. Today, the city remains her home and place of employment. In college, Fox gained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication from the State University of New York in Albany, and spent the first seven years of her career as an award-winning News Promotion Producer at ABC and FOX news affiliates, before becoming the Editor- InChief of JAMROCK Magazine. With her wide-ranging experience in the media profession, Fox launched a music media-marketing firm named FOX FUSE. The company represents clients the likes of Pitbull, Lil Jon and Shaggy. Rhona has worked on numerous television series and commercials since getting her first break in 2009 to appear in the Roc-A-Wear 10th Anniversary commercial, which was directed by Spike Lee. Since then, she has done stints in Sex And The City 2, The Good Wife (CBS), Royal Pains (USA Network), Made In Jersey (CBS) and Law & Order: SVU (season 14). In June of 2012, Fox was honored with the Golden Arrowhead Award of Guyana at a ceremony hosted by the Guyana Consulate in New York City. At the same event, she also received a Proclamation from the City of New York, for her contributions to the City as an actor. Most recently, Rhona was also the recipient of the Rising Sun Awards at the Caribbean Heritage Salute in June of this year. GEM got an opportunity to go one on one with this rising star and business woman to find out how she manages to balance her personal and professional lives and what the future holds for her.

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GEM: You spent the first ten years of your life in Guyana what do you remember about those years? RF: I remember the incredibly rich and diverse food. Guyanese cuisine and fruits are still my favorite – I really miss jamoon, red cashews, star apples, doungs and the lush, natural environment the most. You can journey from city to wilderness, rainforest to waterfalls, hot-and-cold or black lakes to hills and mountains within the span of a few hours. I also recall the “it-takes-a-village” atmosphere that prevailed, whenever we moved to a different part of the country. The entire village or street kept watch over you: they fed you or even spanked you or informed your parents if you did something bad. I used to think it was a negative and overbearing but now as an adult, I see the tremendous benefit of having so many eyes on you, making sure you’re safe and sound. GEM: What was the transition like moving from producing and editing into acting? RF: The transition from being a television producer to acting was not overnight but it feels natural, after having spent over seven years behind the camera and learning everything there is to know about film production, from shooting, to directing and editing. I left TV to work in music, first for a magazine, then for my own company FOX FUSE. During that time, I was able to produce and direct several music videos for artists such as Gyptian, Capleton and Richie Spice. I transitioned in front of the camera after my foray in the music industry. Perhaps playing spokesperson for all my previous clients helped me build my confidence to literally step out from behind the scenes. GEM: Favorite role to date? RF: My favorite role is playing a nurse. I love being in scrubs and sneakers and running around all day looking more like myself, than being in full makeup and high heels, which is the norm with other roles that I’ve played, such as a lawyer. Ironically, I really abhor hospitals but I feel most comfortable in scrubs

"...to be successful with any career or situation, you have to approach it with a business mind and a proper plan of action."

Photography: Zack Cohen Make-up: Amena Aziz. Location: Manhattan, NY

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 19

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

1-ON-1 with Hollywood Actress Rhona Fox Rhona 3rd from right poses with from left husband Zack, brother Ron, mom Deris, dad Basdeo and brother Sean

Roland Hyde Photo

and doctor or nurse gear and working in some of the worst hospitals in New York City, where we often shoot medical scenes. Ultimately, I would love to be a regular on a medical drama or comedy such as ER or Scrubs, where I can just play a nurse or doctor and be in scrubs all day long. GEM: Have you had any blooper moments as an actress? RF: Sure, we all have them and we try to hide them. I have this self-proclaimed disease called ‘dropsy’ where I tend to drop things. I’ve also flubbed lines but thankfully with film, you can re-shoot and do multiple takes until you get the perfect one. My worst bloopers are when I start laughing; I can never stop, and sometimes eventually start crying. I dread those times because I can’t keep a straight face. I’ve done theater and thankfully, no bloopers there thus far. Now that would be bad – losing it in front of a live audience. That’s my worst acting fear! GEM: How do you balance the roles of being a business woman and an actress? RF: I believe that to be successful with any career or situation, you have to approach it with a business mind and a proper plan of action. I truly think that acting is working out for me because I approach it like a business. When I first started out, I had no clue what to do and there was no actor I could have called and ask for advice. So, I employed the same strategies I enforced in FOX FUSE which included learning the craft and equipping myself to work. I went to acting school for almost two years while I was working in music 20 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

still, and learned the actual craft of acting. I also took months of vocal coaching and body dynamics classes, to ease out of my Guyanese and Bahamian accents (I still have them but they’re less pronounced), and to be more comfortable with my body around, and in close proximity to, other actors. I used to be really shy and uncomfortable around people, and I still am, but you probably would never know. So I prepared and worked on learning how to act. Acting is also a business because no one gives you anything while you are trying to make it. You have to hustle every single day, and keep pushing yourself to agents and casting directors. If you don’t make the effort and chase the opportunities, no one would know you exist. That’s something I learned from business, where I would pitch my services to clients and solicit work opportunities for years. Now, instead of pitching a service, I am the commodity I’m working with. If I didn’t learn how to knock down doors, be aggressive and survive rejection and even terrible situations through working in the music industry, I would never be able to make it in acting. I’m also doing this at a later stage in life – as I’m now 33 – and I’m thankful I waited so I can handle myself better, personally and professionally. GEM: What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about hip-hop / rap artists whilst working with them? RF: This is an interesting question. My work with artists has always been confidential, as I traveled with them or was around them a lot, and thus, was often privy to things I can never divulge. That said, the most surprising

GEM: Is cooking and cleaning your cup of tea? RF: Anyone who follows me on social sites knows I cook a lot, so I have to clean, unfortunately. I became a vegan at the beginning of this year and I’ve adopted a gluten-free lifestyle from July, so I’m now a glutenfree vegan. Veganism entails no animal products in your diet, including milk, eggs, cheese, gelatin and even honey. And gluten-free means no wheat, which is a common ingredient in processed foods here in America. So I cook the majority of my meals and when I’m too tired to cook, I venture out to one of my favorite spots here in the city. Thankfully, Manhattan is a mecca for cultural and ethnic cuisines, so I’m never limited in food choices.

Zack Cohen Photo

Rhona in Manhattan, NY

thing I’ve learned from hip-hop and rap artists is how professional and respectful they are, when it comes to doing business. You would think otherwise because they are rappers and hip-hop moguls but they were the nicest artists I’ve worked with, overall. I remember Rick Ross calling my phone once to say ‘thank you’ for my help on a project for his label. Jay-Z is very polite, Flo Rida is super cool, and I love Pitbull and Lil Jon, whom I’ve had the honor of working with, and they are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, period. There are also lots of “divas” but this has been my personal experience with the ones I’ve been around. GEM: Which actor/ actress would you love to work with? RF: I’ve been studying female actresses a lot to learn from their work. I’ve always been a huge fan of Jennifer Anniston and recently worked with her, and that was cool. And I also admire Melissa McCartney and just worked with her, and she was engaging and nice to me so she’s probably my number one now. She’s naturally hilarious, emotionally in touch and completely down-toearth. She’s probably my acting muse right now. I would love to work with Meryl Streep because it doesn’t get better than her. They say a good actor doesn’t act and she’s the ultimate character actor, for my generation. I also admire what Mindy Kaling is doing as the creator of her own show, breaking down barriers for Indian women in Hollywood. But we are the same type so I doubt we’ll ever be cast to work together. I’m a fan of anyone who is dedicated to the craft of acting and is actively working in the field. They all have my respect because everyone wants to do it but only a few succeed.

Acting allows me this wondrous lifestyle of being able to cook the majority of my meals, which is rare for any New Yorker, because we don’t shoot every day. In a good week, I work about three days, so I have ample time to plan and prepare my meals. Proper diet is essential for my job as an actress so I’m more passionate about cooking and definitely take more joy in it now. In a way, acting has made me treat myself better and I’m happy for that. I also post proud photos of my concoctions on my Instagram account, and find it as a conversation topic on Facebook and Twitter. It’s the only time people really engage me, to find out my recipe or ask about an ingredient. So my cooking is connecting me to my people out there, and that is delicious! GEM: A beauty secret you’d like to share. RF: I love this question because I’ve learned so many tricks of the trade over the years from working with celebs through music and now in acting and being on set. You get great tips from the makeup artists and wardrobe and hair stylists. A few that I can share personally are: I always use men’s razors to shave my legs. I learned the best shavers are generated for men’s face, so that’s what I use on my body, and I haven’t had a nick or cut since I was 18, when I first learned this and started. I love coconut oil, probably from growing up in Guyana where we put it in our hair, on our skin and cooked with it. Now, I do weekly hair conditioning using coconut oil, which is inexpensive and organic so good all around. I used to have blonde and red hair, but I play an Indian in the acting industry, so I have to look natural - like a typical Indian, so I went back to my roots and coconut oil is a super-food for both inside and outside your body. I also use petroleum jelly a lot, throughout the day and before I sleep on my lips. And if you can’t afford a decent eye cream (which is mandatory as you get older, especially for ethnic people who tend to get dark circles), you can dab petroleum jelly under and around your eyes, and it really conditions and moisturizers your skin. I have lots of tips for beauty on a dime, because I try to be smart about my earnings and not wash it down the drain, which is what happens to most things we spend money on. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 21

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

1-ON-1 with Hollywood Actress Rhona Fox GEM: Sneakers, stilettos or slippers? RF: This is my biggest tip for anyone who works long hours and is on their feet or suffers from achy ankles and heels or painful feet issues. With acting, a typical day runs from 12 to 14 hours. So I’ve learned from other actresses such as working with Julianna Margulies on The Good Wife, who wears Dansko clogs whenever she’s not filming, which are orthopedic shoes that medical workers wear. So I tried Dansko shoes and love them and for the past two years since I’ve been in acting full-time, I emptied my closet and only wear orthopedic shoes. I have them for all seasons and in all styles. I only buy them because I want longevity in my career and also as a woman, as we are susceptible to osteoporosis. I want to protect my spine and joints from now. So I wear orthopedic shoes, and I have them in sneakers, heels, sandals and slippers, so you don’t have to sacrifice style while being smart about your (foot) health. GEM: You’ve been the recipient of numerous awards, which one of them is most dear to you? RF: All of the awards are very dear to me, and I’m so grateful to all the organizations that have shown me their appreciation. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for doing something that you love, whatever that is. For me, acting is a dream and to receive awards for simply fulfilling your dream is icing on the cake. I

22 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

just want to work, and if awards follow, then that’s even more amazing, but it’s not why I act. I do this because I couldn’t do any other job, every day for the rest of my life. It’s my only option…that’s how I feel. GEM: Every woman looks forward to the day when they can officially announce that they are now a mom, do you have any future plans for children? RF: I have two older brothers (Ron and Sean), both are married and Ron has twin two-year old boys, who are keeping my parents busy in that respect. In fact, they just spent their entire summer holiday with the twins in Chicago. So I’m lucky that there aren’t any parental pressures from my parents to have kids yet. My mother, thankfully, has always just wanted me to have a great job and a good life – she simply wishes for me to be happy and build a good foundation and future for myself, and I’m working on that. With acting, the reality is if you don’t work, you don’t get paid and unfortunately, I’m really new in the game and just starting to get my feet wet. So I don’t have any immediate plans to journey down that road but things can always change. I love working with kids and used to volunteer at an orphanage for years while living in Nassau, Bahamas. I’d love to be more involved in working with kids in Guyana and look forward to pursing this in the near future.

GUYANA'S

GEM recognises forty people under the age of forty years in this special feature.

Of course, there are over one hundred more that can easily make the list, but we had to make some painful decisions to narrow the list.

If you really know Guyana, you will notice that many young people are as patriotic as they come as they continue to believe and excel in a place they live, work and play.

UNDER

The “40 under 40” is made up of professionals, entertainers, sports personalities, entrepreneurs, and other game-changers.

Shazaam 'Shaz' Ally

Eusi Anderson

Age: 28

Age: 26

Occupation: Businessman / IT Professional

Occupation: Lawyer & Development Consultant

Today, what do you aspire to be when you grow up?: A Philanthropist

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Doctor of Medicine and President of Guyana

Who is your hero?: Steve Jobs What is your biggest fear: I have aerophobia. So my biggest fear is flying in an aircraft (although I fly about 3-4 times a year).

Intelligent Social Ambitious

Family: Married

Favourite Quote: Can’t is in a fool's dictionary. What is the best advice you have ever received?: Do the things that are both urgent and important, ignore the urgent or the important.

Passionate Eloquent Sincere

Biggest Fear: Living a life of regrets. Family: Single

Cassia Alphonso

Patricia Bacchus

Age: 25

Age: 30

Occupation: Director of Pinnacle Communications

Occupation: Attorney-at-Law As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: My first option was to be a famous Artist, the second was to be President.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: A Pediatrician What is your favourite quote?: "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."- Oscar Wilde What is the best advice you have ever received?: "Let your best self be your only competition." Said to me by my mom.

Determined Focused Passionate

What is your biggest fear?: Disappointing the people I love. Family: Most important thing to me. They love me unconditionally and support me in every way.

What is your favourite quote?: True wisdom comes to each of us when we realize how little we understand about life, ourselves, and the world around us - Socrates.

Pragmatic Empathetic Meticulous

What is the best advice you have ever received?: My parents both taught me the Desiderata, they advised me, and still remind me, to live by it. What is your biggest fear?: That our civilization may become so weary and jaded, that we stop fighting for what is right. Family: Grandmother, parents, too many aunts and uncles to count, adorable cousins and amazing siblings. We’re an unconventional, practical bunch; but more importantly – we’re happy folks. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 23

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

James Anthony Bond

Adrian Dutchin

Age: 34

Age: 32

Occupation: Attorney at law and Member of Parliament for APNU.

Occupation: Entertainer/song writer. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I always had myself being involved in psychology I like to talk to and be around people.

What is your Favourite quote?: To thine own self be true. Best advice you have ever received?: Never quit. What is the last book you have read?: Public Security by Brig Rtd David Arthur Granger.

Loyal Determined Ambitious

Family: It is everything to me. Mom, dad, two sisters, one brother, wife and son.

Nadia De Abreu Age: 33

What is your biggest fear?: Not doing enough of what I want to do in the world. There’s so much to do but hey you can’t do it all (lol). I really strive to have a good clean legacy.

Nicolette Fernandes Fair Fun-loving Professional

What is the best advice you have ever received?: When I was changing my first job, my dad told me, 'if you feel in your heart what you are about to do is right, then follow your heart.' What is your biggest fear?: Not being able to see my daughter through to adulthood. What is the last book you read?: Who moved my cheese? A book with a very positive perspective on embracing change. I would recommend it to everyone. Family: Married with one daughter.

Age: A Proud 30 Occupation: Squash Player As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I feel very blessed and grateful to say that I am living my childhood dream of being a professional squash player. What is your favourite quote?: I have many but as we all know certain quotes resonate with us at different times. Today my favorite quote is: "Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." - Buddha

Happy Peaceful Grateful

What is the best advice you have ever received?: I thought long about this question and I can't single out only one piece of advice; but I can tell you that the persons who have given me the best advice are my parents and my coach Carl Ince.

Vishnu Doerga Age: 33

What is your biggest fear?: I'm sorry but this one is a little too personal! :-)

Occupation: Management Consultant As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Superman

What is the last book you read?: Buddha by Deepak Chopra Family: My family keeps me real and I love them for that and many, many other things.

Vibrant Unstoppable Ever-Evolving

What is the best advice you have ever received?: You have to be patient with those around you, not everyone knows what you know or can do what you do. Spend your time teaching them (then get impatient). What is your biggest fear?: Not constructively utilizing time (and kryptonite) Family: My better looking half & foundation Davitri and my smart future, Venu. 24 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

What is the best advice you have ever received?: To always be myself and always try my best at whatever I do, be humble, wise and always put God first.

Family: Family is something everyone should cherish because he without a home has nothing or nowhere to belong to. I have a wife and two kids. Both are girls ages 10 and 1.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: A Broadcaster. I imagined hearing myself on the radio and people told me I had a good voice :-)

What is your favourite quote?: “if you cannot fly, run, if you cannot run, walk, if you cannot walk, crawl, but by all means, keep on moving” - Martin Luther King JR

Outgoing Humble Blessed

What is the last book you read?: Oh my last book, probably Gun Weekly.

Occupation: Public Relations Officer, GT&T.

What is your favourite quote?: Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent. - Eleanor Roosevelt.

What is your favourite quote?: When you fall get right back up!

John Greene Age: 32 Occupation: Freelance Photographer. What is your favourite quote?: Keep moving forward by Walt Disney. What is the best advice you have ever received?: Have faith in God and pursue dreams. What is the last book you read?: Steve Jobs. Family: Wife, mother, 2 brothers and a sister. No kids as yet.

Motivated Creative Understanding

Yaphet Jackman

Alisia Katideen (continued)

Age: 28

the morning and you begin to ask yourself do I have to go to work, It is time to find another job”(Dr. Rudy Insanally).

Occupation: Special Project Coordinator / Filmmaker.

What is your biggest fear?: Not seeing my daughter grow up. Family: Engaged to the most loving and caring man. Mother of an adorable 3 year old girl.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: I wanted to be exactly what I am today, a filmmaker well on the way to a successful and fruitful career. What is your favourite quote?: "The world is not enough!" - Anonymous.

Dr. Rosh Khan Cool Determined Interactive

What is the best advice you have ever received?: "Never think that what you've done is good enough, keep pushing to better your good, that way you'd always be your biggest critic and once you're satisfied everyone else will be!" What is your biggest fear?: My biggest fear is failure. I've always been in the habit of optimism, nothing deters me because my determination drives me. Family: Single - Family life for me begins at the end of my academic life which has a few more years to go.

Edison Jefford Age: 28

What is your favourite quote?: “A man’s life is the sum total of his choices” – Reverend Raphael Massiah

Today, what do you aspire to be when you grow up: A full-fledged combination of Jason Borne + Mother Theresa + Steve Jobs. Who is your hero: It's a toss-up between Abraham Lincoln, Nikola Tesla, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King, Jr. What is your biggest fear: Not fulfilling my purpose.

Intelligent Compassionate Awesome

Family: Dad - Roshan Khan, Mom Latchmin Khan, Brother- Roshaad Khan Sisters; Katherina Roshana Khan & Latifan Khan.

Age: Verified Occupation: Technical Writer and Media Hostess (Television/Radio).

Passionate Ambitious God-fearing

What is the best advice you have ever received?: According to the Holy Bible, “time and opportunity has been given to every man”; therefore, every man was born with a specific purpose that will “make a way for him and take him before Kings.” In other words, the Bible advises us to live a God-centred purpose-driven life. Family: My wife Chaka Charles-Jefford; my mother Paula Jefford and six siblings, Elton Jefford Jr., Ezra Jefford, Emerson Jefford, Elvern Jefford, Erica Jefford and Kiswana Jefford.

Alisia Naudia Katideen

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: Media Hostess or Pediatrician. What is your favourite quote?: Be impeccable with your words. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

Ambitious Affectionate Compassionate

What is the best advice you have ever received?: Never change who you are to please anyone. Always remain humble and be yourself and many great things will follow. What is your biggest fear?: Losing someone I love dearly. Family: It is within families that we learn the basic values of faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, and diligence. We learn to love, serve, teach, and learn from each others. We share our joys and our sorrows. Family ties may bring us difficult challenges, but they also give us strength and some of our greatest happiness.

Prithima Kissoon

Age: 34

Age: 31

Occupation: Sales and Marketing Manager.

Occupation: Deputy Solicitor General, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Attorney General's Chambers.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: A Pediatrician. What is your favourite quote?: Great name or fame I do not claim and honours just pass me by, but the older I grow, the more I know people will always love someone like me who is friendly, lovable and kind.

Occupation: Entrepreneur.

Wendy Khan aka Desi Girl

Occupation: Sports Journalist; Founder of Sports Management Inc., which manages sports and other projects. As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: I was such an outstanding junior Track and Field athlete in primary school that I wanted to be a professional athlete; unfortunately, there was absolutely no scope here to merge academics and athletics in Guyana’s education curriculum.

Age: 25

Audacious Sassy Caring

What is the best advice you have ever received?: "When you wake in

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: After looking at Indiana Jones Temple of Doom, I was 10, and emphatically decided I wanted to be an archeologist. The holes in my mom’s garden would have attested to my ambition. Favourite quote: Abraham Lincoln:

Loyal Generous Often Naive

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 25

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

Prithima Kissoon (continued) 'Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.'

Linda Moore Age: 35

Best advice I've been given: from my mother: 'I have no jewels, gold or riches to give you but what I can afford to give you is a sound education, use it wisely.'

Occupation: Television host.

What is your biggest fear?: Failure.

What is your favourite quote?: If you have faith when you pray, you will be given whatever you ask for.

Nadira Mangar Age: 27

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: A singer.

Occupation: Business owner (Gourmet Delights).

What is the best advice you have ever received?: Stand up and fight for what you believe in.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: A Fashion Designer.

What is your biggest fear?: Travelling on water.

What is your favourite quote?: "Believe you can, and you're halfway there."Theodore Roosevelt.

Family: Married with 2 children.

What is the best advice you have ever received?: Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right. What is your biggest fear?: Losing someone close to me.

Creative Strong-willed Optimistic

Family: The best security, sense of identity and relationships you'll ever have from the beginning to the end.

Ravi Mangar

Shyam Nokta Age: 37 years Occupation: Adviser to the President and Head, Office of Climate Change. As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: To be a pilot. What is your favourite quote?: It always seems impossible until it’s done. – Nelson Mandela. What is the best advice you have ever received?: "Be Humble! In the end people really care about how you treat them and not just how good you are at what you do."

Age: 32 Occupation: Business owner; Gizmos & Gadgets, Glamour Designer Brands, Shoe Heaven. As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Fireman! They have cool uniforms!

Family: Malisa (wife) and Shayne Samir (son).

What is your favourite quote?: Creative Wherever I see people doing something Ambitious the way it's always been done, the way it's 'supposed' to be done, following the Confident same old trends, well, that's just a big red flag to me to go look somewhere else - Mark Cuban.

Occupation: Professional Footballer with FC Edmonton in the North American Soccer League (NASL).

What is your biggest fear?: Boredom. Family: Can't live with them can't live without them.

Kojo McPherson Occupation: Creative Professional: photographer, filmmaker, writer, etc.

Today, what do I plan to be as I get older: Business owner and entrepreneur/ Football Coach / Best Dad in the World lol. Hero: My mother, her hard work and dedication is the reason I am here and been able to achieve so much, you never truly appreciate someone until they are no longer here, and my mother was one of God's special angels.

Passionate Determined Driven

Family: I have 3 sisters, a brother, a niece and 5 nephews.

Nerissa Candacy Pearson

What is your favourite quote?: “The man that knows something knows that he knows nothing at all” – Erykah Badu, On & On.

Age: 27 Occupation: Radio Announcer/Producer (Broadcaster).

Curious Creative Restless

Family: Mosa Mathifa Telford – Partner. Kinaya McPherson – Daughter. 26 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Age: 29

My Biggest Fear: In life we face a lot of tests and challenges that we might say we "fear" but there is nothing to fear but God. It’s all about mentality; in reality we can overcome almost anything if we want to.

Age: 30

What is your biggest fear?: Being still for too long.

Meticulous Determined Quiet

Christopher Nurse

What is the best advice you have ever received?: There are just so many but what helped me the most was "never lose focus of what's most important."

Who is your hero? Personal: Lorna McPherson. Professional: J.J. Abrams

Devoted Outstanding Blessed

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I had a dream of becoming one of two things which ironically I work in no connection with now; a lawyer or a Surgeon. What is your favourite quote?: He who refuses to rule is liable to be ruled by one worse than himself (Plato).

Nerissa Pearson (continued)

Janelle Persaud (continued)

What is the best advice you have ever received?: It doesn't matter what you would've done in your past for it is just that, past but what is integral to your life is where you want to be, how you will get there and how to stay there for a very long time. (My Aunt, Marcel Roberts).

What is the last book you read? For pleasure: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

What is your biggest fear?: That I wouldn't be the best mother I can be to my daughter by not setting a proper example for her to emulate in life and be a spark in this life to ignite love among people.

Age: 35

Family: My immediate family has three members; Myself (of course), my 5 year-old son Nathan and one of my younger sisters (Thelisha Case).

Ryan Rahaman Passionate Loving Adventurous

Occupation: Businessman. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: A swimmer. What is your favourite quote? "Never put off for tomorrow, what you can do today."

What is the last book you read?: The last book I read was titled Push based on the motion picture Precious.

What is the best advice you have ever received? Stay true to yourself.

Family: I have one older brother, 4 younger brothers and two sisters.

What is your biggest fear? Losing my loved ones.

Bishnarine Persaud (Sanjay)

What is the last book you read? The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.

Family: My wife, Cindy and 2 sons, Nathan & Noah.

Age: 38

Stacey Dos Santos Rahaman

Occupation: Managing Director and owner of Sanjay’s Jewellery INC. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: As a child, I wanted to be a race car driver and today not only that I’m a successful businessman but a professional drag race driver. What is your favourite quote?: An investment in knowledge pays the best interest- Benjamin Franklin.

Adventurous Dedicated Traditional

Age: 33

Positive Generous Communicative

What is the best advice you have ever received?: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. What is your biggest fear?: I have no fear. What is the last book you read?: The Godfather by Mario Puzo . Family: Married to Selenia Akeung, two kids Nicolas (13yrs) and Sanjana (8yrs).

Janelle Persaud

Occupation: Owner of www.visitguyana. gy. /Internet Marketing Strategist Social Media Guyana. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: A chef. What is your favourite quote?: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world ~ Nelson Mandela.

Independent Conscientious Compassionate

What is the best advice you have ever received?: My mom always tells me, life is short: If you have the power to make someone happy, Do it, because the world needs more of that. What is your biggest fear?: Losing loved ones.

Age: 27

What is the last book you read?: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, it's a dystopian book about a world where books are outlawed.

Occupation: Broadcaster.

Family: Husband, Chris Rahaman and daughter Anya Rahaman (4).

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I remember first wanting to be a pilot at around 8 years old. By the age of 10 I had wanted to become a Doctor. As a teenager I hadn’t a clue what I had wanted to do. By 14, with help of my Life Skills Teacher I made a list of my own qualities and characteristics; at the end of this process that list matched two careers: Journalism and Law. Today I have been a Journalist for 10 years. Law still is an option.

Mitra Ramkumar Age: 35 Occupation: Chief Financial Officer.

Passionate Determined Ambitious

What is your favourite quote? “He who has a way to live for can bear almost any how.” - Friedrich Nietzsche What is the best advice you have ever received? It would be the one I give myself everyday…to never allow the circumstances of my past or even my present to negatively affect my future… What is your biggest fear?: Not being able to fully realize my purpose and the consequent failure to passionately execute it.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: I just wanted to be like my dad who was a farmer at that time. What is your favourite quote?: Be the change you would like to see in the world. What is the best advice you have ever received?: Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to learn.

Genuine Fair Affectionate

What is your biggest fear?: Rejection. Family: Father of 2 daughters. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 27

GUYANA'S 40 UNDER 40

Melissa Roberts (continued)

Avenash Ramzan

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I wanted to be everything that I could be.

Age: 30 Occupation: Sport Journalist/Assistant Editor/News Anchor. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: My dream was always to work in the media. I've always had a fascination with journalism, both broadcast and print. Fortunately, I was able to break into the media at a very early age, thanks mainly to former University of Guyana lecturer Ms. Alexis Rodney, who selected me for internship at NCN in 2005.

What is your favourite quote?: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to have love and lost than to never love at all. What is the best advice you have ever received?: Believe in yourself.

Easy-going Hardworking Unassuming

What is your favourite quote?: "People see God every day; they just don't recognise his many forms." What is the best advice you have ever received?: During my school years my parents would always remind me of the importance of a good education and how crucial it was to having a stable and successful life. I think that was the best piece of advice I've ever received, because it meant they were very determined to ensure I did not go down the wrong path in life. What is your biggest fear?: My biggest fear is being out of a job and not being able to provide for those I'm responsible for. What is the last book you read?: Well, to be honest I've been reading lots of nursery rhymes for the past few years to my little son. However, the last major book I read was "The Autobiography of Malcolm X." Family: Wife Faneeza, three-year-old son, Shahid, parents Ramzan and Ramrattie, sister Shivanie and my 73-year-old grandmother with whom I've been living with all my life, completes the core of my immediate family.

WR Reaz Occupation: TV Presenter / Radio Broadcaster /Entertainer.

Loyal Happy Assertive

Family: Means everything to me. Living in this world without them would mean living in this world with no light

Rameshwar Rupchand Age: 32 Occupation: Advertising Manager (Digicel). As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: An accountant. What is your favourite quote?: When you want to succeed as much as you want to Breathe, That's when you will be successful.

Calm Hardworking Dedicated

What is the best advice you have ever received?: The best advice I have gotten from someone many years ago is to never lose focus on what you're doing for you're the creator of your own destiny.

Family: Married and have a son.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?: I wanted to be a Lawyer. I was always talkative while growing up and very energetic (still is).

Africo Selman Age: 31

Determine Passionate Dependable

What is the best advice you have ever received?: To always stay humble, respect the individuals that were there for you before success came your way. Some inspiring and true words from my parents. What is the last book you read?: Ramadan was a few months ago so my last book was The Holy Quran. Family: A loving & supportive family who bless me with all my activities either Radio or TV Programs, Moto Racingworks on my car 397 or social activities and true friends as well, always there for me, cheers yall.

Melissa Roberts aka VANILLA Age: 31 Occupation: Manager at Kross Kolor Records, Personal Trainer & Nutritionist, Screen Play Writer. 28 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

What is the last book you read?: The Laws of Thinking by Bishop E Bernard Jordan

What is your biggest fear?: Well my biggest fear is not accomplishing my goals in life.

Age: Verified

What is your favorite quote?: Live life to the fullest but always remember God Almighty.

What is your biggest fear?: Mmmmhhhh.....donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any at the moment.

Occupation: Legislator. As a child what did you wanted to be when you grew up: Diplomat. What is your favourite quote: Be the change you wish to see. What is the best advice you have ever Supportive (of family) received?: All humanity is one undivided and indivisible family, and each one of Servant (of humanity) us is responsible for the misdeeds of all Unshakable (faith) the others. Premised on this, I coordinate an annual literacy program with centers at Sophia and Den Amstel to empower youth. The program is sponsored by Health and Educational Relief Organization (HERO). What is your biggest fear?: The spirit of fearfulness and timidity does not come from God. I fear the Lord. What is the last book read: Double Jeopardy by David Patterson. Family: My family is my canopy.

Robbie Singh

Clinton Urling (continued) day is how can I make a difference in the world around me and the community around me."

Age: 31 Occupation: CEO of Pulse Entertainment, Image Marketing, Millennium Realty, Arcadia Game shop, Movietown DVD Club. As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Rich. What is your favourite quote?: Life is what you what you make it.... so I suggest you live it and be happy!! And there is a difference between knowing something & understanding it. What is the best advice you have ever received?: Save your money.

Passionate Determined Hardworking

What is your biggest fear?: Growing old without a family if consumed by work . Family: Mom is my biggest supporter & backbone.... My father died when I was very young. I have 4 sisters & 2 Brothers.

Occupation: Sales Manager Caricom Bottling Company Inc/ Journalist.

Trusting Assertive Honest

Family: I’ve got the best family one can ask for. Both my mum and dad are alive and while I’ve lost a few of my siblings the idea of knowing that I’ve got shoulders to lean on and to offer a shoulder in return is the best feeling of family which extends to a lot of people.

Mosa Telford Age: 30

Affectionate Industrious Selfless

What is the best advice you have ever received?: Never give up, never settle for less, you can achieve anything that you put your mind to no matter what obstacles are set in front of you. They are what they say they are “obstacles”, they can be conquered. Persistence Breaks Resistance.- From Gemma Williams. What is your biggest fear?: Not being able to make a difference. Family: Father- Glen Williams, Mother-Gemma Williams, Sister- Veneta Williams.

Suelle FindlayWilliams Occupation: Public Relations Officer

Favourite Quote: “To hold a people in oppression you have to convince them first that they are supposed to be oppressed” Dr. John Henrik Clark.

Family: Kojo McPherson (partner), Kinaya McPherson (daughter).

Age: 22

Age: 29

Occupation: Writer.

What is your biggest fear?: Heights.

Geron O. Williams

What is your favourite quote?: It’s not about how hard we fall, but how fast we choose to get up and keep moving forward.- by Myself.

Today, what do you aspire to be when you grow up?: To be the owner of my own media house.

Hero: I have a few heroes. Two of them are my mom Debra Murray-Braithwaite and my elder and teacher Brother Eusi Kwayana.

Family: Two sons: Christian and Chad Urling.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Growing up I had always wanted to become a mathematics professor.

Age: 36

What is your biggest fear? I fear God but in the true sense of fear being jailed.

What is your biggest fear?: Getting married, kidding...I fear heights.

I Am Pragmatic

Occupation: Semi Professional /National Cyclist.

Mondale Anthony Smith AKA Smoggy

Who is your hero?: My father Dennis Smith.

What is the best advice you have ever received?: To have wealth: create value for others 2. To obtain freedom: adopt discipline 3. To gain tomorrow: sacrifice today 4. To be secure: take risks 5. To lead: serve 6. To get up: lift another 7. To get revenge: forgive 8. To win: find the lessons every in loss 9. To fly: fall often 10. To change the world: change yourself.

Creative Humble Loyal

Today, what do you aspire to be when you grow up?: A few years from now I see myself as a Media/Communication Specialist. The great thing about the field of communication and media is that it's multi-faceted and there is always something new to learn. And, even more amazing is that it provides you with all the tools to impact lives and change minds.

Honest Loyal Funny

Occupation: Owner of German's Restaurant and President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Who is your hero?: My hero is a man who was selfless, brilliant and humble. He loved deeply. He taught me to give beyond my needs, serve with joy, love the unlovable, forgive as many times as possible and believe. Jesus Christ is my hero as He was the only man who endured pain and suffering so that I could be free. He was and still is the perfect example of life and love.

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?: Road Engineer.

What is your biggest fear? My biggest fear is losing the people I love.

What is your favourite quote?: "Life ultimately is not about position, it's about a purpose, and my purpose that I try to focus on every single

Family: I have been married for seven years to Phillip Williams and I am looking forward to the arrival of our bundle of joy.

Clinton Urling Age: 34

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 29

Tea m

! a n a y u G

HIP INSPIRED TRENDY by: Macaela Cameron Fernandes

Featuring: The G.M.R.S.C. Racers!

Andrew King o iK ng

Ryan Rahaman

Kevin Jeffrey

Age & Number of Years Racing: 35 years old; racing for 13 years Machine & Group: Ford Sierra; Groups 3 & 4 What inspires you to compete? My dad has always been my inspiration. Motor racing is what we love to do.

Age & Number of Years Racing: 53 years old; racing for 36 years Machine & Group: Mitsubishi Evo 8; Group 4 What inspires you to compete? The adrenaline rush I get from the thrill of competition.

ack! r T he

Age & Number of Years Racing: 55 years old; racing for 34 years Machine & Group: RX7; Group 4 What inspires you to compete? The competition and adrenaline rush. Overcoming obstacles is another reason I love the sport.

Irfaan Kalamadeen

Age & Number of Years Racing: 32 years old; racing for 4 years Machine & Group: RX7; Group 4 What inspires you to compete? The love of motor racing and the forever possibility of winning.

Kwame Ridley

Stephen Vieira

Age & Number of Years Racing: 29 years old; racing for 14 years Machine & Group: Suzuki GSXR600; Superbike What inspires you to compete? I love the competition and the thrill it gives you.

Vishal Sawh

Age & Number of Years Racing: 36 years old; racing for 14 years Machine & Group: Toyota Starlet; Group 2B What inspires you to compete? The competitiveness, speed and adrenaline rush.

Carey Griffith

Matthew Vieira tar! S g isin

R Age & Number of Years Racing: 32 years old; racing for 2 years Machine & Group: Kawasaki ZX6R; Superbike What inspires you to compete? I like the competitiveness of the sport and I like to challenge the other riders.

Sponsored By: 30 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Age & Number of Years Racing: 31 years old; racing for 2.5 years Machine & Group: Suzuki GSXR 750; Superbike What inspires you to compete? My love and passion for motor racing gives me the will to compete and the determination to train.

Age & Number of Years Racing: 16 years; racing for 1 year Machine & Group: Suzuki GSXR 600; Superbike What inspires you to compete? The sound of the crowd cheering, the adrenaline rush and the burning desire to be the best rider in the country.

Race fans, are you ready for Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meet?!

Hunk Anthony Pires Guyana’s most eligible bachelor and GEM HUNK Height: 5 ft 11” Weight: 198lbs Waist: 32” Chest (relaxed): 45” Neck: 16” Biceps: 16” Shoe Size: 10 Favourite Junk Food: Pasta Work out tip: As a professional, everyone’s body type and structure are different, therefore work out and a diet tip varies on a person. So for pro advice add me on BBM -24DB152D

Think you have what it takes to be a GEM Hunk? Then send us a professional quality photo of yourself with the required information to: letters@gemmagonline.com YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 31

ARIF ALI ICON

The Power of the Press Text: Petamber Persaud

Arif Ali. photo courtesy lh6.googleusercontent.com

ithin one year of arriving in the UK, Arif Ali had lost all his investment in the publishing business. Today, forty odd years later, Arif Ali (founder of Hansib Publications) is ‘still the biggest and most diverse black book publisher in Britain’. That is no idle claim and no mean achievement for anyone anywhere in the world who operates within the publishing business. Book publishing is precarious business. To succeed it takes special, sometimes superhuman, efforts. Ali endured the darkest forms of discrimination even surviving a ‘coup’ at one of his newspapers but he persisted in his dream to give voice firstly to minority migrants in the UK and to peoples around the world. Ali was determined to add his weight to the fight for a better society, sometimes turning the other cheek, sometimes facing-off and confrontational. And in the process, he discovered the power of the press. In 1970, Ali established Hansib Publications. The first book launched by the press was a Who’s Who titled, ‘Westindians in Great Britain,’ which showcased the achievements of West Indians living in the UK, a brilliant move on which to launch his battle, all in keeping with his mandate. But it was through his weekly and monthly newspapers that the real war raged unabated day after day. Some of the newspapers he produced included, Westindian Digest, African Times, Asian Times, and Caribbean Times. While the newspapers were taking their daily toll on the perpetuators, empowering the victims and sensitising people concerned, the books were the heavyweights of the fight. Some of the books produced by Hansib included, ‘Black Routes: Legacy of African Diaspora’, ‘A Black Studies Primer: Heroes and Heroines of the African Diaspora’, ‘Women of Substance: Profiles of Asian Women in the UK’, ‘The

32 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Ideology of Racism’, ‘A New System of Slavery: Export of Indian Labour Overseas, 1830-1920’, ‘Rasta and Resistance: From Marcus Garvey to Walter Rodney’, ‘India and the Caribbean’, ‘Coolie Odyssey’, ‘The West on Trial’, and ‘75 years of West Indies Cricket’. The man who has produced hundreds of books and continues to produce books for others and on other persons of substance is now the subject of a book. It sounds like an honour but the man reluctantly gave consent for his life and work to be a subject of a book. He is so humble about his enormous contribution to society that the book was not launched with pomp and ceremony but rather it slipped discreetly into the public domain. The name of that book is, ‘Caribbean Publishing in Britain’ by Asher and Martin Hoyles. The name of the man is Arif Ali. Arif Ali, born in Guyana in 1935, moved to England in 1957. Furthering his education was put on hold when he married Pamela, a nurse he met during his hospital rounds, and they started a family. In fact, Ali started two families – his immediate family and his extended family at Hansib. Yet ‘[b]y the 1980s,’ according to the blurb of the book, ‘he was publishing 3 weekly papers and 2 monthly magazines, employing a total of 140 staff. The circulation of the weekly Caribbean Times peaked at 28,000, averaging around 10,000. In all his publications, Arif was reaching a readership of about half a million people. It was through his involvement in the publishing business Ali was able to travel widely, to meet world leaders and to meet with people who made a difference to this world. Some people he was acquainted with included Nelson Mandela, Shridath Ramphal, Maurice Bishop, Maya Angelou, Bernie Grant, Jesse Jackson, Diane Abbott, Mohammad Ali, Ivan Van Sertima, Jan Carew, Forbes Burnham and Cheddi Jagan. Ali’s formative days in Guyana set the foundation for his explosion on the world stage. Ali was born at

In the meanwhile, Ali continued his voracious reading habit and got married to his wife who became a major support in the publishing business. After trying his hand at various jobs, he sold a prospering business to go into publishing. And that’s where he made his greatest contribution to the world and Guyana.

Writer Deanne Heron and Arif Ali. Photograph: Rod Leon/rod@allimages.net

Danielstown on the Essequibo Coast of Guyana, attending St Lawrence Methodist School at Hampton Court where he showed a propensity for reading and storytelling. A house move transplanted him to the island of Leguan in the mighty Essequibo River. While attending the Maryville Canadian Mission School, one of his teachers, Mr Yaw encouraged him to read and to extend his social contacts which Ali implemented later after another house move. In 1950, the family moved to Georgetown, where Ali was able to fill out his character – showing his true colours as a rebel. He skipped classes at Bedford Methodist School (near Bourda Market) but was attracted to the National Library where he read voraciously, extending his knowledge and during which time he passed his school leaving examination, writing the examination out of school and winning a partial scholarship. But instead of continuing his formal education, he opted to join the work force. Georgetown was good to Ali. Here he got his first book cupboard because his books were scattered about the home. This act of his father building and giving him a book cupboard was of major significance to Ali (for he continued his voracious reading when he moved to the UK). In Georgetown, he became involved in scouting, founding Troop 41 assisted by the Muslim Youth Organisation. Two other major interests of Ali were politics and the cooperative movement. He was active in both areas but robustly so in politics, especially around the period of the 1953 election. But on Election Day of 1957, Ali departed Guyana for England. In England, it was starting all over again mainly because of blatant discriminatory practices meted out against minority migrant groups. It was within this fractured society that Ali found his calling.

Guyana was always on his mind. In 1988, he published twelve books by Guyanese writers to mark the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians to Guyana and for 2013, he has earmarked a number of titles for publication to mark the 175th anniversary of the arrival of Indians to Guyana. Guyana was always on his mind. Arif Ali is very proud of the fabulous coffee table book he produced on Guyana in 2006. The title of that book is simply, ‘Guyana’ – no exotic subtitle as used to market the other books in the ‘Nation Series’ via ‘Anguilla: tranquillity wrapped in blue’, ‘Barbados: just beyond your imagination’, and ‘Trinidad and Tobago: terrific and tranquil’. From its opening pages of this massive 240-page book, you are invited to experience Guyana and/or continue the adventure into a vibrant and emerging nation. Well-researched and well-written articles illustrated by almost 400 imposing photographs give an overall picture of the complex history and colourful culture of this country with separate authoritative pieces on each ethnic group. Herein the folklore of the country will blow your mind and play tricks on your imagination. All that information is buttressed with at-a-glance sheets of facts and figures on significant events in the history of Guyana. Two years after the launch of ‘Guyana’, Ali made another huge contribution to the land of his birth. In 2008, for Carifesta X, he published about six books by Guyanese including ‘A History of Theatre in Guyana – 1800-2000’ by Frank Thomasson, ‘Shridath Ramphal, Commonwealth Statesman, The World His Theatre’ – Essays in honour of his 80th birthday, ‘Short and Sweet’ by Bobby Fernandes, and ‘The Balgobin Saga’ by Petamber Persaud. Further, and very importantly, he ‘sold six million dollars worth of books for two million dollars.’ Ali remembers his great passion for reading and this magnanimous act was to boost the falling away in the reading habit of Guyana. And Ali plans to do more to serve his country if given the opportunity – he plans to print text books for schools to compete and even to beat out pirated books. So the man who lost his investment in his first effort at publishing is in now a position to throw down the gauntlet.... OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 33

Naya Zamana 18

A Theatrical Presentation Photography: Carl Croker

n August 24, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha hosted their annual theatrical production, Naya Zamana at the National Cultural Centre.

This year marked the 18th edition of this much anticipated event as patrons were treated to a continuation of last year’s theme ‘Bollywood Dreams’ but with a twist. This story line revolves around a group of dancers who have been granted coveted spots in a premier dance academy. The dancers later would compete for an abandoned bride. A domineering diva, a Shah Rukh fanatic, and a love-struck Romeo are all part of the mix. The production was written, choreographed and directed by Dr Vindhya Persaud and featured a diverse musical 34 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

repertoire to echo 100 years of Indian cinema. As with previous productions, emphasis was placed on the choreography, drama, music, set design and costumes to help deliver the desired ambiance for each scene. The cast comprised of approximately 60 dancers and actors who, from all appearance, worked feverishly to deliver memorable performances. In addition to the Sabha’s Dharmic Nritya Sangh, others who played key roles in the production included Amit Shah creative director and choreographer of Aatma Performing Arts in the USA, Prashant Sitaram, choreographer of the Rangeela Dance Troupe of New York, Indhira Harry, Gina Arjoon, Zahrah Alli, Tonya Singh, Rishi Dubraj and Ananda Latchman.

RAYMOND HANIFF

GENERAL STORE WE CATER FOR ALL YOUR GROCERY NEEDS!

- Place your order over the phone - Have your order ready on time, every time - For all your interior Grocery needs, wholesale and retail 48 Princess Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Tel: (592) 231-1941. Cell: (592) 614-6019 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 35

Bodies of Steel GABBFF Seniors Competition Photography: Carl Croker

Guest poser Barbadian Anderson Jemmott

Miss Guyana Alisha Fortune

The new Mr. Guyana Kerwin Clarke

Candace Lynch

odybuilding fans were treated to an evening of intense competition on July 20, when the Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness Federation (GABBFF) held their annual male and female seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; contest at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. When all the flexing and posing were over, Kerwin Clarke was adjudged Mr Guyana 2013. Clarke fresh off weeks of rigorous training in the USA, conducted by veteran muscleman Hugh Ross, seemed well prepared for competition as he did battle with last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mr. Guyana title holder, Devon Davis.

36 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Devon Davis

Young Francis Culpepper

Alisha Fortune, a regular top prize winner, easily took home the Miss Guyana and Miss Body Fitness titles from her lone challenger Candace Lynch. Other winners included Dwayne Mars, Heavyweight; Kerwin Clarke, Light Heavyweight; Linde Sharpe, Masters Over-40; Kevin Bobb-Semple, Lightweight; Devon Davis, Bantamweight; Alston Lancaster, the Lightweight; Abdul Shaheer, Junior Under-21; Dwayne Mars, Heavyweight; Abdul Shaheer, Junior Under-21; Godfrey Stoby, Welterweight and Kevin Bobb-Semple, Flyweight.

SSignal Productionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Jazz and Soul Concert Photography: Arian Browne

Basil Bradshaw in blue with members of the Impromptu Band

Signal Productions, a music and movie company, headed by Bonnie Alves and his partner Charmaine Blackman hosted a Jazz and Soul Concert at the Umana Yana in Kingston on August 5. The event was held as part of the Emancipation activities and in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion and the 175th year of Emancipation.

Bonny Alves

Candace Field

James, Bob Marley, The Temptations, War, Earth Wind and Fire, Natalie Cole, Nat King Cole, Al Jarreau, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Eddy Grant, Marvin Gaye were honored in musical renditions.

A number of international artistes the likes of Etta

The concert which was emceed by Basil Bradshaw featured Bonny Alves, Charmaine Blackman, Candace Field, Eze Rockcliffe, Lisa Punch, Devon Denny, Dorian Obermuller and Circle of Love all backed by the Impromptu Band.

Circle of Love

Charmaine Blackman

Devon Denny OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 37

Team Guyana

Digicel's T

he curtains came down on the Digicel 2013 Senior Caribbean Squash Championships on August 17, at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts.

The tournament which was played from August 11, included teams from Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and host Guyana. Both the Guyana Men’s and Women’s teams came out on top as the women won their first senior regional title

Barbados ladies team: Orson Simpson Manager, Alex Jordan, Nadia Mc Carthy, Gylla Mackenzie, Amanda Haywood, Karen Meakins 40 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

Photography: Carl Croker

2013 Senior Caribbean Squash Championships after defeating Barbados in their final encounter. The men got the better of Jamaica in their encounter.

Favorites Guyanese Nicolette Fernandes and Jamaican Chris Binnie retained their titles as the Caribbean’s number one senior female and male players. Also finishing in the top ten spot for the females in numeric order were Barbados’ Karen Meakins, Guyana’s Ashley Khalil, Mary Fung-A-Fat, Ashley DeGroot and Keisha Jeffery, Jamaica’s Melissa Lue Yen and Brooke

Alex Arjoon and Dennis Dias

Guyana Vets Team: Alwyn Callender, Carl Ince Coach, Dennis Dias, Jillian Lilico, Garfield Wiltshire, Chauncey Lee, Brendon Mounter, Anjeta Hinds Ansa Mc Al Rep

Burrowes and Barbados’ Gylla Mackenzie and Alex Jordan. The nine top men’s players were Guyanese Sunil Seth, Mark Chaloner of the Cayman Islands, Richard Chin of Guyana, Cameron Stafford of Cayman Islands, Alex Arjoon of Guyana, Gavin Cumberbatch of Barbados, Bruce Burrowes of Jamaica, Shawn Simpson of Barbados and Mandela Patrick of Trinidad and Tobago.

Beverley Harper

After the championships, the players were treated to dinner at a prize giving ceremony attended by officials and supporters at the Grand Coastal Inn on the East Coast of Demerara. Due to the incredible showing by Guyana in this year’s tournament, the team earned an automatic qualification for the 2015 Pan American Games to be held in Toronto, Canada. The main sponsors for the tournament this year were Digicel, Banks DIH and Ansa McAl.

Cayman Islands Mens Team: Julian Jervis, Gabe Rabess, Gavin Hope Digicel Rep, Mark Chaloner, Cameron Stafford, Daniel Murphy, Janet Sairsingh Manager

Nicolette Fernandes and Coach Carl Ince

OECS Vets Team: Winston Findlay, Sherian Slater, Anjeta Hinds Ansa Mc Al Rep, James Bentick, Keith Boyea, Monique Lovell-Devaux OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 41

The Dining Guide A scintillating combination of aromas, from fresh Caribbean spices to grilled snapper and baked lamb will awaken your taste buds as you enter our Restaurant CARA LODGE 294 Quamina Street Georgetown, Guyana, South America Tel (592) 225-5301 Fax (592) 225-5310 E: caralodge@carahotels.com W: www.carahotels.com

White tablecloths, candle light, live music, a bottle of wine and of course some great food. That's the recipe for our Friday night restaurant, inside Oasis Cafe We recommend reservations, the better to accommodate you. 125 Carmichael St. Cummingsburg. Tel: 681-1648

View our daily menu at: www.oasiscafegy.com

THE BLUE LAGOON BISTRO/ POOLSIDE

Offer an international breakfast with a local flare. The menu offers a sample from East Indian Curries to Mouthwatering Tempura, sizzling Steaks and Sandwiches spike up the day. The poolside is an ideal afternoon getaway to sit back, relax and let the courteous staff offer a mix of great entertainment, cocktail specials and spicy hot cutters. Come, indulge in our range of mouthwatering dishes while taking pleasure in soothing background music.

Located at:

8 New Market Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Tel: (592) 227-0079

74-75 Main Street, G/town. Open 6 AM- 10 PM Daily

8 Pere Street Kitty, 592 Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 231-8644/ 622-4294 Nightcap is a small, trendy sandwich and coffee bar with a casual and intimate atmosphere. It's a great place to relax after work or school, feel free to sit back and enjoy our music selection while surfing the net or playing chess or scrabble. Stay for great food and better company ! Our friendly staff is always eager to serve you.

42 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

A Guide to the Top Eateries in Guyana Creole Restaurant and Catering Service

Make your Taste bud Smile 112 Third & Albert Streets Ablerttown, Georgetown Guyana Tel: (592) 225-6255, 642-9807

• Steak • Prawns • Burgers • Buffalo Wings • Grilled Fish • Jerk Chicken • Jerk Pork • and much more

Tel: (592) 225-4721 32-33 Regent & Hincks Street Robbstown, Georgetown, Guyana

When you're here, you're family

183 Albert Street, Georgetown Tel:223-7927

Think sophistication, elegance and difference at Guyana’s Premiere Fine Dining Experience. The Flame Restaurant is the hot spot for special occasions and events such as birthdays, anniversaries and weddings. Enjoy the delicious cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Specialties such as Honey Dew Melon Lamb Chops, Sobe Calamari and Grilled Lobster Thermidor, accompanied by dim lighting and soft instrumentals add to the exquisite ambience. Open Wed, Fri – Sun. 6pm-11 pm. Call 227-2012 -15 for reservations. Flame Restaurant Hotel Tower Guyana 74-75 Main Street, Georgetown

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 GEM | 43

The Dining Guide

Dine with us for that Great Creole Taste. We offer Roti, Curries, Chokas, Fried Rice, Chowmein, Baked Chicken, Fried Fish, Pastries, Cakes, Local Juices and lots more to savour.

We are proud of our freshly prepared food, warm welcome and relaxing atmosphere. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ideal place for those that seek genuine value, whether for a family meal, a relaxing drink or a bite to eat with friends.

48 Sheriff Street Campbellville. Tel: 227-0627, 227-0643

70 Park Street Enterprise, Guyana Phone: 229 7100 Email: info@playlanditaliano.net Website: www.playlanditaliano.net

Player Nathalie Hing Sport: Hockey Position: Goalkeeper Your favorite moment as a player? My best moments are when my team wins. How long have you been playing this sport? Since 2004. If you had one wish for your sport what would it be? For hockey to become a National sport. What is your personal sporting goal? To be fit so that I can perform to the best of my abilities. Who is your sporting idol? I have no particular idol, I admire women in sports

To be considered as a GEM Player, please send a recent high quality picture of yourself, along with the answers to the above questions to letters@gemmagonline.com 44 | GEM OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

s ’ a l e a c Ma walk

The G.M.R.S.C Edition!

Cat

Kristian fills in the blanks!

I never leave home without… my school

and gym accessories.

My dressy, party style is… jeans, a button-down and a fresh pair of shoes. My comfortable, laid-back style is… shorts and t-shirts.

The ladies are dying to know, boxers or briefs? Briefs...my brightly coloured

undies provide sexiness.

Who are your racing icons? My determination comes from my father and Ayrton Senna is my favourite driver.

Race Ready!

Up! Swag Tun

Cool &

Kristian’s Must Haves!

favourite accessory

favourite shoes

favourite car

What do you normally wear under your racing suit? A Nomex top and

bottom (Alpinestars) and a pair of Nomex socks.

Stylish!

What’s one thing you wish your racing suit had? A cool suit... it’s

favourite cologne

connected to an ice box and cools you down while you’re driving.

If you were a spectator on race day, what would you wear? A t-shirt, shorts

Alpinestar Race Shoes MacBook Pro Laptop

Mercedes Benz Clk

“Keep it simple but sexy”. - Kristian’s Style Rule!

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue

and a fresh pair of sneaks.

Mark fills in the blanks!

I never leave home without… my cellphone.

My dressy, party style is… casual and elegant.

My comfortable, laid-back style is…

shorts, a polo, slippers and a pair of sunglasses.

Cool &

apper!

favourite skin item

The ladies are dying to know, boxers or briefs? Briefs. Who are your racing icons? “laughs”...

All Hail the C

ha mp!

Mark’s Must Haves!

favourite cologne

favourite car

myself, of course, the late Ayrton Senna and Valentino Rossi.

favourite watch

What do you normally wear under your racing suit? A Sparco undershirt

and a pair of briefs.

What’s one thing you wish your racing suit had? Air conditioning.

Neutrogena Sunblock

Bvlgari Aqva

Porsche GT3

“Always keep it simple”. - Mark’s Style Rule!