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MAG

Senegal’s Multi Grammy Award Winner - Who is he really?

Dec 2013

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Who is Who in Fashion

ONLINE

How I met my wife

Nigerian Investment Summit - UK

Sierra Leone Excellence Awards

Ugandan Trade & Investment Forum - UK

Meet Faith: What a Man can do, she can do more

…with pages of 2013 events in Sweden, UK, Banjul, on Sports & more …

A Facebook styled magazine connecting you to Africans home & abroad Available FREE online www.jojosmag.com

BANJUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, THE GAMBIA

Banjul International Airport (BIA) is state owned and is located in Yundum about 24km from Banjul, capital city of The Gambia, West Africa. The airport is operated and managed by Gambia Civil Aviation Authority.

KEY FACTORS FOR CHOOSING BANJUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT • Location - Proximity to active markets • Modern Infrastructural Development • Liberal Air Transportation Policy • Compliance with safety standards (TSA/ ICAO Certified) • Regional co-operation – Secretariat to Banjul Accord Group • Political Stability in The Gambia • One Stop Shop – GCAA manages & operates the airport • Competitive airport charges • Special incentive package for airlines INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Gambia is an investment haven and Gambia Civil Aviation Authority actively solicits partnership with potential companies and individuals who wish to engage in business at Banjul International Airport. Our vast landside area provides you with investment opportunities in real estate, bars and restaurants, shopping centres, children playground, airport hotel, fast food chain, fitness centre and many more.

CONTACT INFORMATION Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, Banjul International Airport P.O.Box 285 Banjul, The Gambia, West Africa Tel: 00220 4472831/4472893 Website: www.gcaa.aero Email: dggcaa@qanet.gm / dg@gcaa.aero / info.datrac@gcaa.aero

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Interview @ inauguration of International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Gambian Fatou Bensouda

Diabetes & HBP in Africa

They tried to deport me Interview with Scorpions FC by TMC Jojo of 3 times

Malariais this the beginning of its end?

Why 50,000+ Brits visit The Gambia My Journey Gambia in the annually Olympics 2012 Europe to

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A Gambian Facebook magazine connecting Available FREE online www.jojosmag.com

you to people home & abroad

10/07/2012 21:17

A Facebook styled magazine connecting you Available FREE online www.jojosmag.com

to Africans home & abroad

Here comes another issue of Jojo’s Mag with another round of Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s greetings from all of us.

This issue marks the second year since our first publication. Time flies, so they say! But we remain committed to improving the content of the Mag by linking up, and bringing on board more African countries.

It has not all been good news since the last issue, as we have lost a dear friend, brother and a valuable contributor, Mr. Saidou Ndow, a renowned professional photographer and producer who was based in the US. He dedicated all his life to promoting African and American beauty. May his soul rest in peace.

Our aim is to project an image of African excellence. Therefore, we are continuing to strengthen our partnerships with people from around the continent, so that someday soon you will get to see the whole of Africa featured in our pages. So watch this space!

In this issue

JojosMAG hires.indd 1

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UK Based Arts & Cultural Entrepreneur Sir Njok Malik

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July 2012

You also said you would like to know more about how you can get your event published in Jojo’s Mag. The short answer is: just get in touch using our contact details below or via the website and we will put you through the simple process.

How to get published your event in Jojo’s Mag Please contact us on: Email: office@jojosmag.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jojoh.jobarteh or www.facebook.com/jojosmag The magazine can be accessed in its entirety at: www.jojosmag.com Likes-i4!!

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4 Youssou Ndour

31 Health Story

6 Who is who in Fashion

32 Sierra Leone Excellence Awards

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London 2013 SeneGambia Events

10 Ladies 11 Pa Kebba’s Baby Naming

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MAG

You told me you like how we tell stories in pictures. I also appreciate that many of you liked the quality of the magazine, which some of you described as “a photo album” providing lasting memories of images from the past and present. Let me reassure you that we will continue to aim higher. But did you know you can view back issues of the Mag for free on our website. I urge you to try it while the option lasts.

34 Fashion by William Brown

12 African Outfit 14 Gentlemen 22 Nigerian Summit 18 Meet Faith 22 Vivian Show 24 Sweden Gambia Week 25 Africa Alive 26 Pap & Sheikh in Banjul 28 Uganda Investment Forum 29 Immigration Stories 30 Couples

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Youssou N’Dour Chronological Resume of the life of

A Multi Grammy Award Winner

F

ew people in certain professions go on to become legends. Music is one such profession. Youssou N’Dour in our view is one of those few. He has performed and collaborated with musicians from all around the world, which is why besides other reasons set for him being nominated for the Polar Music Awards, Jojo’s Mag provides below, a snapshot of who Youssou N’Nour really is.

• 1959-born 1st October. The oldest child of 8 children born in the Medina district of Dakar. His father, Elimane N’Dour, from the Wollof tribe, was a very conservative and respected local car mechanic. His mother, Ndeye Sokhna Mboup, from the Toucouleur and Wollof tribes, is from the renowned West African professional singers known as “griots”. N’Dour’s career is recorded to include a start up period of selling music CDs before going on to become one of the most influential recording artists in the world. He is currently ranked as the richest African Artist. Singing mostly in the Wollof language mainly spoken in Senegal and Gambia, using the popular Senegalese Mbalax rhythm which is described as a fusion of Western music and dance. His early day career started with singing at traditional functions.

Youssou is a dedicated Muslim belonging to the Sufi brotherhood of the late Senegalese holy man Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba.

Family: N’Dour is a father of 8. Two daughters, Mary and Ida (the latter needs to be verified) from current wife Aida Coulibaly, who is from a French/ Senegalese mixed background. Four children, Ndeye Sokhna, Segui, St. Louis and Venus, from his first wife of 17 years, Mami Camara; and his 2 older children, a son, Bitrane, and a daughter Thior, both from two different earlier relationships before marriage.

• 1970s Starting Up - As a teenager, he won a talent contest before going on to join the most popular group Star Band de Dakar. Upon the death of its lead singer, he became the natural successor. This marked the beginning of his professional performing years, with 1973 often quoted in his songs as his debutant year. Like most start up artists, it is recorded that as a teenager, Youssou played in bars and clubs as a start up act for popular gigs.

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• 1977-79 under the leadership of N’Dour and in partnership with El Hadj Faye, another star singer of the time, N’Dour founded a new band named Etoile de Dakar (1977), later renamed Super E’toile de Dakar in 1979 after Faye left.

• 1980s Going Abroad - by age 23 he solidified his leadership of Super Etoile de Dakar. In 1984 and 85, N’Dour performed for the first time in Europe and in America effectively launching his international career. It is claimed his career was launched with the support of Senegalese taxi drivers’ fraternal association in France and a small circle of Diaspora supporters in England.

During these trying years, it was recorded that he was twice dropped

by Western labels. Youssou N’Ndour’s success can be attributed in part to a strategic decision he made about who his target audience will be, by adopting two versions of his music: home crowd and world market versions. This strategic approach is evident by the success of similar “Worldbeat” African artists like Mariam Makeba, Salifu Keita, Manu Dibango Amadou & Mariama, and Mory Kanteh, to name a few.

• 1986 Meeting Peter Gabriel - This was the year he met Peter Gabriel.

Youssou was quoted saying: “After my first-ever show in London, Peter Gabriel came to my dressing room and told me he loved my voice. I knew of Genesis [Gabriel’s Group at the time] but I wasn’t really aware of who he was. One of the technical people said: Do you know who that was? That was God! So then I [started to] listened to his records, and I toured with him, and I became his friend. And of course I sang on “In Your Eyes” album. But that’s not why I like it.

It was the first Western pop record that really touched me deeply. And Peter, with his Real World label and the Womad festival, has done so much to support music from developing?countries.”

• 1994 International Success - duet with Neneh Cherry on the song “7 Seconds”, this became an instant hit all over the world and won a Grammy nomination. Following his world tour with Peter Gabriel and with the success of “Seven Seconds”, Youssou’s international career was cemented and the rest was a foregone conclusion, as the star was established.

• 2011 Politics - He announced that from January 2012 he will retire from music to enter politics and contest the February 2012 Presidential elections.

He named his long time friend and band member percussionist/vocalist Mbaye Dieye Faye as leader of the band. He founded the protest political group Fekke Maci Boolé Foundation, which means “I am involved”, but his candidacy was disqualified on technical grounds, causing him to throw his support to the current president Macky Sall.

• 2012 April - He was appointed minister of culture and tourism to which he said he was inspired by Gilberto Gil, a musician and former Brazilian minister of culture.

• 2012 September - while a cabinet minister, he performed for the first time at a charity show in Dakar to raise funds for Senegalese flood victims.

• 2013 February - announced his return to music to promote tourism to Senegal in his new political portfolio as Minister of Tourism. He described his February 23rd 2013 performance as an opportunity to lend support to the biannual ‘Sahel Festival’.

• 2013 June 21st - Released a single “Namonalene” which translates “I missed you” a song undoubtedly dedicated to his fans which makes it the second time he performed on stage as a government minister and entertainer but undoubtedly re-launching his musical comeback to stage.

• 2013 September - reappointed in a cabinet reshuffle to the tourism portfolio.

• 2013 October 12th Youssou performed at a sold out concert with a crowd of 20,000 at the Palais Omnisports de Paris Bercy concert hall. According to the event sponsors, RFI, this is the 14th such “Grand Bal “concert the star held since 1999.

• Business - owns influential media outlets which include a TV station, TFM (Television Futurs Medias), a radio

With lifelong friend Mbye Dieye Faye

station, RFM (Radio Future Medias), and a newspaper L’Observateur, Senegal’s most circulated. He also runs two popular night clubs, Thiossane and another located in the upmarket Hotel Le President. He is the man behind the music recording studio called Xippi opened in 1991 and owner of record label Jololi.

• Other Achievements: i. 1985 organised a concert for the release of Nelson Mandela. ii. 1988 toured to promote Amnesty International’s Human Rights Now campaign. iii. 1991 April to 2012 January served as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. iv. October 2000 appointed Goodwill Ambassador by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) v. 2005 performed in three Live 8 concerts in London, Paris and Cornwall. vi. In 2009 released his song “Wake Up (It’s Africa Calling)” under a Creative Commons license to help IntraHealth International in their campaign to bring open source health applications to Africa. vii. 2011 awarded honorary doctoral degree in Music from Yale University. viii. 2013 August – winner of Polar Music Prize deemed to be the Noble Prize of Music, which is Sweden’s highest musical honour awarded annually to both a pop performer and classical artist for their “exceptional achievements in the creation and advancement of music.”

• In the Movies-Starred in two awardwinning films. i. Youssou N’Dour: I Bring What I Love in 2008, co-starring Peter Gabriel is a documentary film dubbed “a neverbefore-told story” based on his most personal and controversial Grammy Award winning album “Egypt”. ii. Retour à Gorée (Return to Goree) a musical documentary released in 2007, is a story about a slave’s journey from Africa to the USA and back, tracing the origins of jazz through the trails left by slaves and the jazz music they created. iii. Amazing Grace released in 2006, he played the role of the African-British abolitionist Olaudah Equiano which chronicled the efforts to end slavery in the British Empire.

• Popular acclaim: i. The New York Times described his voice as an “arresting tenor, a supple weapon deployed with prophetic authority” ii. Folk Roots magazine described him as the African Artist of the Century. iii. The Rolling Stone: “perhaps the most famous singer alive”. iv. Time Magazine described him as one of the planet’s 100 most influential people. v. Peter Gabriel described him as having a “voice of liquid gold” Story collated and verified from different sources including creative commons. Thanks to all the people who helped to verify the accuracy of this story. Sources available on request.

30 Years of Music by Youssou N’Dour & Year of Release 1984-Bitim Rew 1986-Nelson Mandela 1988-Immigrés 1989-The Lion 1990-Set 1992-Eyes Open 1994-The Guide (Wommat) 1995-Gainde – Voices from the Heart of Africa 1996-Djamil - anthology 1997-Inedits 84-85 - compilation 1999-Special Fin D’annee Plus

2000-Joko: From Village To Town 2000-St. Louis 2000-Rewmi 2000-Lii 2000-Joko: The Link 2000-Le Grand Bal a Bercy 2001-Le Grand Bal a Bercy 2002-Youssou N’Dour and His Friends 2002-Ba Tay 2002-Nothing’s In Vain (Coono Du Réér)

2004-Kirikou 2004-Egypt 2004-Kirikou 2004-Egypt 2007-Rokku Mi Rokka 2007-Alsaama Day 2009-Special Fin D’annee : Salegne-Salegne 2010-Dakar-Kingston 2011-Mbalakh Dafay Wakh

Singles

In Pensive mood

Title

Year

Album

1. “Shakin’ the Tree” (with Peter Gabriel) 2. “Shakin’ the Tree” (re-release) 3. “7 Seconds”

1989 1990 1994

4. “Undecided” 5. “How Come” (re-release) 6. “So Many Men” (feat. Joy Denalane)

1995 1998 2002

The Lion The Lion The Guide (Wommat) Duet with Neneh Cherry The Guide (Wommat) Youssou N’Dour and Canibus Nothing’s in Vain (Coono du reer). Duet with Pascal Obispo.

Compilation albums 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

The Best of Youssou N’Dour (1995) Euleek Sibir with Omar (You et Pene) (1996) Immigrés/Bitim Rew (1997) Best of the 80’s (1998) Hey You: The Essential Collection 1988–1990 (1998) Birth of a Star (2001) Rough Guide to Youssou N’Dour & Etoile de Dakar (2002) 7 Seconds: The Best of Youssou N’Dour (Remastered) (2004) Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur – John Lennon’s “Jealous Guy” (2007)

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WHO IS WHO – Gambians on the International Runway Mariam Fayer

Model/ Journalist/ Sales Rep, Heartland Model Agency Background: Fayer is the stage name Mariam is best known for. She is an international model based in the USA who was born and raised in The Gambia. Fayer’s work is creative and beats the imagination. Her uniqueness speaks volumes, while her and poses continues to draw attention to her work. Fayer started her modelling career in 2008 back in the Gambia. In early 2010 she won the Face of Gambia pageant before moving to the USA in December of the same year.

Objective: Represent Gambia in Miss World, open an orphanage Interests: The beach, cooking, novels, adventures.

Achievements-Best known for modelling and being a TV personality in The Gambia. Top model currently working with Heartland Model Agency who have presence in New York, Malmo, London, Paris and Moscow. Had appearances in Revenge Fashion Magazine.

Photo provided by Mariam

Regina Manneh

International Model & Winnier of Face of Africa 2013 Background -Gambian/Senegalese, Danish model, born 22 October 1989, raised in Denmark, Sweden, Ivory Coast, lived in Dubai and now based In United Kingdom. Speaks English, French, Danish, Swedish and Wolof.

“Modelling gives me the opportunity to meet cool people and build career relationships.

As a model, you get to travel around the world a lot. I’m very family oriented. Until age 24, I never lived on my own without my parents, so when I moved to the UK two years ago to focus on my modelling career and studies, that was a major change for me.”

Objective – To go for my Masters degree in Interior Design, set up an interior design company and a charity company. I love my fashion career and would love to live in Los Angeles. I work hard every day to get me where I would like to be in the future.”

Interests-I love to travels and Dubai my favourite stress free destination. Music is everything to me.

I listen to all genres of music.

My advice for fans: Just believe in yourself regardless of what you aiming for. You have to stay focused, confident and have faith. Everything happens for a reason. If it doesn’t happen for you then it’s not meant for you, but if it does happen for you then make the best out of it and be the best.

Achievements – Regina is best known for her long legs and their dazzling strides on the international runway. Has been modelling since 2009 for big brands like Armani and Zara. Has participated in Fashion Weeks in Los Angeles and Dubai. She is the 2013 The Face of Africa title holder.

Photos by Moshood L. Adekunle

Ebrima Sey

Fashion Model

Background: Ebrima Sey is 23 years old Model originally from Gambia now living in London. He always had the dream of becoming a pro basketball player, but then modelling came in the way of some friend’s encouragement, which has been a blessing. He is inspired by Tyson Beckford and Sam Sarpong.

Interests – Acting and music.

Achievements-within one year of launching his career, Ebrima was nominated for the 2011 BEFFTA Awards in the best UK male models category. His recent projects involves work with the London college of fashion for their 2012 collection. Has been featured on Vogue online.

Photo provided by Ebrima

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Bintu Sonko Fashion Model Background: I am a freelance model of Gambian origin and based in Germany. I am not signed up with any modelling agency, which means I am not locked into any contract. I do all sorts of modelling jobs. I get a lot of hits through my Facebook page which for now keeps me busy.

Photo provided by: B. Sonko

The Unique Solutions Team

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London 2013 SeneGambia 3 Days Event Photos by Musa Sarr

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LADIES PAGE

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Pa Kebba & Satou’s Baby Naming Ceremony in Atlanta

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AFRICAN OUTFIT

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GENTLEMEN’S PAGE

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Nigerian Investment Summit in UK June 2013

T

he Nigerian Diaspora Direct Investment Summit (NDDIS) 2013 is the first of several building blocks aimed at connecting Nigerians in the Diaspora with investment opportunities back home. It is in recognition of the fact that many Nigerians in the Diaspora develop initiatives and projects that can contribute to national development of their country and help create jobs

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but have difficulties doing so because of lack of information about how to go about it. The main purpose of the event is for new businesses to be established, new partnerships be forged and for new jobs to be created with Nigerians from the UK and the Diaspora as key Drivers. The two days event brought together over a thousand delegated including key businesses and high profile speakers.

o M t s e i esmeriz r o s s e c c e A

Petrina Kamara CEO/Creative Designer

Petiz Fashions Ltd Email: petizfashions@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07956105122 Brand: Petiz Fashions Accessories Slogan: “Accessories to Mesmerize” Twitter: @petizfashions Instagram: Petizfashionaccessories

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Meet Faith Cole –

What a man can do, she can do more…

As a nursing student, I was the only black person which meant I stood out in every aspect. But that for me meant I had to represent my people and try to excel in every aspect of my academic and private life. As a result, during my orthopaedic training, I was awarded a Rose Bowl Prize for outstanding achievement. This further encouraged me and boosted my drive to aim for bigger achievements in life. I managed to rack up six qualifications, which is more than what my mom would have expected.

Work Life: I have worked very hard during my days in Glasgow. I did all sorts of work you can imagine, just to support and maintain myself. I hardly had friends. It was always working and studying. I felt lonely and isolated many a times, but none of that deterred me. I had the determination to overcome all those temporary barriers.

There were times during my life in Glasgow when I felt lost due to isolation. Those Photos by Bukolo Grace Odusina

Jojo’s Mag: Please tell us about yourself.

Do take us through your life journey, from start to where you are now.

Background: My name is Faith Cole. I was born in The Gambia to a single parent mother who looked after me dearly.

I am the oldest of six children and the least know, perhaps because I left home at an early age to study abroad and because I have a different father. If I were to mention my siblings most Gambians will make the connection.

Education: I attended Methodist Prep school in Bathurst (now Banjul, capital of Gambia) and then to Gambia High School before leaving in 1977 to study nursing in Glasgow, Scotland.

I started my nurse training in 1978 and my mom died in 1979. This was a very painful moment for me because she was my inspiration and the source of my drive to become successful.

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trying times gave me a lot of reflective moments about life. I spent time thinking about what I wanted and where I would like to see myself in the years to come. I used to sit quietly reflecting on what life was and what life could have been like for me.

I finally convinced myself that the only way out was to either sink or swim, and swim I did, because of the decision I made which got me to where I am now.

Above all, there was always that resounding quote my mom left ringing in my ears, which was : “Faith, make sure you get your qualifications before getting married, because at least if you get your qualifications as a married woman, if the marriage is no more, you would still have your qualifications.”

Road to success: In 1983, I bought my first flat when I was in my 20’s because I had the determination to succeed. I had a good job in Glasgow, but then I had to leave because of a failed relationship. I just had to remember what my mother told me about marriage and education, and I knew what she meant was to know my priorities.

So I realised that I had to move for my own good. I cannot see myself being bugged down just because of breaking up with a man I loved and was almost going to marry.

I moved to London in August 1990. I made up my mind that I was not going to wait for a man to come and make things happen for me. I also realised that even with a man, we would both have to go through the same struggles to make it, and so I decided a man can join me later. I thought it was better for me to make my own money and become independent instead of expecting a man to join me and make that happen.

In London I got a job at Cromwell Hospital in Kensington where I was looking after the rich and famous. I was soon mixing and mingling with the rich and famous. These are the wealthy Arabs. This encounter made me more ambitious because I started seeing a different way of life.

It was at Cromwell that I saw a different future for myself, because I was no longer looking after patients in a public hospital.

There were private wealthy clients. I was looking after millionaire and billionaires. I looked after top of the top patients, and I gave it my all. These are people who do not have a limit as to how much they can afford on their health.

I believe I stood out in the job because of my no nonsense attitude my mom instilled in me. When I am at work, my patients are my customers and for me they come first.

It was through my job that I had my first big break when one of the Saudi Royal Princesses asked me to become their private nurse for three months. She flew me in a private jet.

I became more ambitious, and I said to myself that I wanted this! I had by now had so much exposure to what it means to become rich and successful. At the time I didn’t have time for socialising or partying.

My Mother: My mom was a Gambian called Comfort Daoudu Mboge. She was born to a Gambian Mother and a Nigerian father. I understand my grandfather came to Gambia as a trader and met and married my grandmother. They had six beautiful children including my mother. I have got aunts and uncles in Nigeria that I have never seen. So I have got a bit of Nigerian blood in me, hence the assertiveness.

Basically, my work was my life, and a man was not in my plans. Although my plan was not the ideal one, it worked for me. My focus was on working to earn enough to be able to support my future partner and any children that would come along, and thank God it worked for me.

Most of this happened in the 1990’s.

I wasn’t looking for children even as I was being pressured by family. Some were convinced that I could not conceive. But I maintained my focus. And I have to say looking back today, I have no regrets about the decisions I have made. I now have two beautiful daughters like anyone else who has started before me.

I love African music. Love to party. I love working hard. When am at work I don’t have time for anything but work. Even my children hate me for that. Work comes first.

With the little I have, I still take the tube train to work because I found it easier. I do have nice homes but I sleep in one. I have a nice car but it is not able to get me to work any quicker than the train. You can still be rich and comfortable and simple. I am not extravagant. I invest in properties and I donate to meaningful charities.

My Business: while looking after the rich and famous, I looked at the market segment of what I was doing, and I realised that there was an opening for me.

I saw a niche for providing private nursing care in the community for the rich and famous clientele.

So the moment my second child was born, I decided to branch out and start focusing on providing care to private patients. I did my business forecast and I realised that I could earn more working for myself than clocking in weekly in a public hospital.

Finally in October 1996, I established myself as a sole trader in the private nursing business. My first year was a success, but I still remained who I was.

I did not let that sudden success change my life style. In the second year my income doubled to £850K, and from then on it continues to double.

And then it peaked in 2002 when the business was worth £10 million. But then I had to sell that business and downsized because I decided to be with my husband.

This was when I moved to Ivory Coast. My husband wanted to go into politics and I wanted to be there for him and support the one thing he wanted to do. That journey to

support my husband took 10 years of my time and he now achieved what he wanted.

But his politician ambitions had its toll on our marriage and we had to divorce.

Before moving to Ivory Coast, I had to downscale the business, but I retained my top clientele before selling. My client’s believed in me so I could not have just dumped them. They made who I am today.

For me the customer come first, which means I don’t joke with my job. Work always comes first.

My Business: I have different segments.

Primarily it is a recruitment agency where I employ very competent nurses and carers. I tailor made my business to fit the needs of my target clientele. The business also employs doctors. We have three clinics with the capacity to admit 30 patients. These are patients that may need a whole floor to themselves, so comfort and quality is always on demand.

I enjoy my job but I really find it challenging to work with my own people. We employ all nationalities, and we have an equal opportunities policy not to discriminate against anybody.

Marriage Life: my first husband was an Ivorian man who is the father of my 2 beautiful daughters born in 1994 and 1996.

I have given a lot to my first marriage.

Imagine with my very demanding business, I had to have a life between Ivory Coast and London. I lived in Ivory Coast from 1997-99 and then from 2002 to 2012. I have been shuttling between my business interest in London and my family back in Africa. And then in 2001 I lost a son aged 3 months. It was not easy, this has had both a physical and psychological impact on me.

I am now remarried again in July this year to Gambia named Baboucarr Jammeh, and I know, a lot of people expressed their reservation about it based on different aspects, but I refused to have anyone interfere with my private life. My family on the other hand are very supportive.

They know that I know what I want and it is my life and my choice who I want to be with. I have made myself very clear, I have told them to better “Join in the dance and dance the dance or they are out of the dance” and what I mean is if they are not part of the dance, I don’t have time for them. I have not ruled out the possibility of having more children

She was a no nonsense woman and a very focused and determined person. She was a business woman until she died. She had higher aspiration for me and my siblings. I guess I am a chip of the old block because my mother was a very successful woman.

Unfortunately she died at the very young age of 40. When my mom died I felt lonelier.

If she was working with you and she wasn’t happy with your performance, “she will give you a good beating”, she was pure old school.

My mother worked as a nurse, a teacher, a policewoman, an air hostess, secretary, everything, you name it. The list just goes to show you her determination.

I think I get my drive from my mom, because whenever I think about her, I get a surge of energy to do more. She never stopped trying. She was a go getter. I remember when I was young she was always trying to involve me in her enterprising ideas. I remember her being one of the first women to be supplying the hotel in Gambia with fresh poultry and fresh food items.

What would be impossible for you to give up? At this particular moment in time and in this particular order: My job, my current husband Baboucarr Jammeh, and my children. The reason I put it in that order is that my children are growing up and I expect them to have a life of their own. Then I will be left with my husband and my job, but the job was there before everyone else. The fact is, I was already married to the job before anything else.

What I can’t stop talking about in this life: my job and achievement targets because it inspires me every day. Because I believe if you have a stable job and you earn comfortably, you can live a good life. Now don’t get me wrong thinking that without money one cannot be happy, but once you start enjoying a comfortable life with money, you don’t want to be poor ever again. Poverty is like a disease.

My motivations: my determination to success through work.

Public achievements: Who is who British elite 2009-10 award winner. Awarder an ORG in 2003 by the Gambian President.

How would your clients describe you?

They always say go to Faith, she will solve all your problems. Majority of my clients are from the Middle East. My best client is the ruler of Dubai. I still maintain all my clientele. I have been looking after them for 14 years and I have never changed my price. I like to keep them happy.

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Nicole

According to the Children Nicole-What I love about my mom is that she is very hard working and she brought us up to believe in ourselves. She has given us a very good and comfortable life.

What I hate about her is that she works really hard which means so does not tend to spend much time with us. But I understand that is the sacrifice she has to make to give us the comfort we have in life today. She has ensured that we have the best life. To pay her in return, we work hard in school. I love cooking, shopping and hanging with my friends. I feel I have integrated very well in my school. I am very conscious of my work in school.

Ghislaine

I missed being with both my parents. I am studying business administration and I would like to run my own businesses when I grow up. “My sister is my best friend, she is my other half.”

Gheslaine-What I love and hate about my mom is endless. But most of I liked the fact that she is very independent and works very hard for what she has earned.

She is business driven.

What I hate about her, I think she thinks that she is always right when it comes to dealing with us, which is very annoying. I think she has made a lot of mistakes in life which ironically has benefitted us. I think I myself will not make some of the mistakes that my mom made, which is a good learning point for me.

“My sister is everything to me. She is my other half. I can’t live without her.”

My sister has always been there for me.

When I need her she is there. We grew up in Africa, so I know my roots. It has not always been smooth, but looking back now, I do understand all the sacrifice our mom made. I would like to become a successful entrepreneur, study medicine and help a lot of people. I am interested in football.

Editor’s note: In case you are wondering, the girls are wearing their natural hair.

Their secret: use the blow dryer once every 3 months; naturally wash and dry your hair.

You can give them a shout out on Instagram: Ghislaine_dominique or nicoleiman

Photos by Bukolo Grace Odusina

How much are you worth? It’s in the millions without having to say exactly how much, but I have most of it tied up in properties. However, I can say that am very comfortable. And my mother Comfort should rest well knowing that I have achieved the comfort she always wished and inspired in me.

Your Legacy: I would like to leave a legacy through the charities I sponsor.

When I die I don’t want people to cry for me but rather celebrate my life. I do not linger with material things, I believe God gave me what I have and I will leave it here. I tend to give a lot of my money to charity. I have invested a lot in Ivory Cost and am now shifting my focus to Gambia.

I have projects am working on to provide support in the areas of health, education and poverty alleviation.

For example, I have provided the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) four ambulances, and I spent £150k in renovating the A&E. I have experience in supporting good causes, so I just don’t give away my money. Am not the richest person but am also not the poorest person in the world, but I believe in giving back to society.

There are three things I say in my life: Work hard, play hard and the third one I will keep to myself.

Going into 2014: I have new projects in the pipeline. I will be doing most of my business in the Gulf States of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar but there will be a lot of shuttling to the UK. I think this was something I was supposed to do a long time. As an African woman, my marriage

limited my expansion plans. I gave priority to my previous husband’s interest, and now that I have a new man who supports my plans, I can carry on.

I think the younger generation needs inspiration. They should know that if they work hard they can achieve despite their limited education. Education is important but it is not necessarily the key to success, its common sense and being focus driven.

You do not have to have a PHD to be rich.

You can be a cleaner and become rich. As humans we should stop judging people’s backgrounds. Most people including myself are from poor backgrounds. “If I can make it, anyone can make it.”

I believe in supporting project that will open doors to other people. I think everyone deserves a chance. In my own case, it was the Arabs, thanks to “Allah Karim”, as my client will say. They see me as “an African with a difference”, and I delivered to their satisfaction.

I had a lot of exposure, places I have been and seen. Ii have been to the nicest places in London and the Gulf, but I am still the same Faith born in Barthurst (now Banjul, the capital city of Gambia). When I reflect on my past I continue to thank God. Children: I have two daughters aged 19 and 17. They are quiet level headed, occasionally they are naughty. I can only say thank you to God. I have to say my children spent lots of time with maids and their father while growing up. But one of us had to sacrifice to give them the comfort they now have.

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Vivian Show in Gambia

Photos by Siaka. Courtesy of Ous Jobarteh of GPA

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Sweden Gambia week 2013

Photos by Siaka

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AFRICA ALIVE

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Pap & Sheikh in Banjul 2013 Photos by Siaka

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The Gambia at the 3rd Islamic solidarity games in Jakarta, Indonesia 22nd September – 1st October 2013

• Thirty six countries participated in the games.

• Out of 47 registered countries 38 attended • 1614 athletes and 819 officials participated • 200 & 100meters men’s finals-Adama Jammeh got 5th and 6th place respectively • Taekwondo 28kgs men-Saikou Touray conceded to Saudi Arabian in a two round combat Provided courtesy of Momodou Demba

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Keynotes highlighted by speakers

Willy Mutenza, Chairman Ugandan UK convention

Over 1000 delegates attended event 10+ Senior Government Officials including 6 cabinet ministers and the Honourable Vice President • Government’s Pledge: Vice President of Uganda Hon. Edward Ssekandi reported that the Ugandan government plans to establish a fully devoted department to handle Diaspora matters. This point was reiterated with the assurance by a rep of the speaker of Parliament who confirmed that the matter of appointing a Minister for Diaspora affairs is top priority.

• Investment opportunities: Uganda guarantees investors to freely bring in and repatriate their money, market accessibility, security for investment, tax exemption, duty free import for plant machinery and many other attractive incentives aimed at increasing take up business opportunities in the Agro-business, Fishery, Forestry, Manufacturing,

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Hon. Edward K. Ssekandi, Ugandan Vice President & senior delegates

Mining, Financial services, Tourism, IT and Infrastructure.

• Chairman of Uganda Investment Board, Mr. Patrick Bitature, outlined the opportunities in Africa as a new trajectory focusing on infrastructure, working with the private sector throughout Africa on connectivity, focusing on developing roads, railways, ICT and electricity which he emphasised are key to development in Africa. He also highlighted the fact that Africa is now connected to the new high speed undersea internet cable with the rest of the world, which presents huge opportunities through improve IT connectivity. On rural developments, Mr. Bitature shared that Uganda has a strategy to develop business, tourism and industrial parks across the country rather than having the rural-urban migration where everyone migrates to the city looking for services and work.

• Lord Sheikh, a Ugandan who is also a members of the UK House of Lords, summarised the key elements of marketing Uganda as follows: a stable liberalised economy, a strong natural resources base, government

commitment to private sector, low cost and trainable workforce, investment incentives, security, repatriation of profits and re-export support schemes.

He gave the example of how key regional market players such as the East African common market regard Uganda as a strategic market hub for businesses for the entire region.

• Opening Closed Doors: Ugandans, particularly those in the Diaspora, are encouraged to take a lead in forging partnerships which will increase their stake in major national projects like dam constructions, which have been deregulated, making it possible for a small cooperative of individuals to easily own at a reasonable price.

Early Birds Registrations

for the 2014 convention visit: www.ugandanconventionuk.org DATE: Saturday, 13 September 2014 TIME: 09.30 - 19.00 VENUE: Troxy, 490 Commercial Rd, E1 0HX London UK

How I met my wife 1

How I met my wife

I mistakenly dialled a number and got a sweet, friendly and nice sounding voice on the other end. I quickly apologized but she was too nice and shared that this has happened to her several times in the past.

And then she asked if I was African.

This took us into a different line of conversation, and an hour later, we were still talking. It did not matter anymore who I was planning to call. Next thing I knew, she agreed for me to keep her number and we were back at it again the next day.

After a week, we were having more than just a stranger’s conversation. We were both at the point of yearning for each other daily. Every day after work - these were the days before mobiles were so readily available - I would rush home to get to the phone so I can hear her voice. It was the sweetest voice anyone can imagine and her politeness was something you just would like to be part of.

Finally we agreed to meet after more than a month over the phone. She suggested the time and place, at a restaurant in mid town Manhattan, New York. I arrived half an hour earlier because I couldn’t wait to finally meet her. It was a very cold winter evening. I was wearing multiple layers of clothing, a hat, scarf and dark glasses. Ten minutes before the agreed time, I heard the same familiar voice struggling to squeeze through the main double swinging doors. She was of very big bones. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I felt sorry for myself and for her, knowing very well that I was not mentally prepared for what was coming through those double doors. Throughout the several hours we racked up during our telephone conversations, we have never got to describing each other. For me that would have been impolite to ask of her.

The restaurant was full of people of all races. But it looked like she knew most of the guests suggesting she could tell who was new. Then she continued to walk towards me, looking straight into my eyes. I immediately stood up walking towards the exit.

Just as I was about to go past her, I heard her sweet voice calling, “Bob” she called out my nickname. But I did not respond or react to her call. Then she tapped on my shoulder, and I looked back starring into her beautiful eyes with a plastic smile and a confused facial expression as if I did not know it was her.

“Are you Bob?” What? “Are you Bob?” “No English” I said, continuing on my rush to the exit and jumped into a parked taxi straight home.

As soon as I got home, my phone rang. I answered, it was her, but I gave an excuse that I was not feeling well and had tried to call her while she was already out. She narrated her strange encounter with someone in the restaurant that she thought was me.

A few days later I called her, because I became lonely and isolated. And having given it deep thought, I realised that for love, size should not matter. I also came to the conclusion that she was the only person in America who happened to care that I existed. I confessed to her that I was the one she met at the restaurant and after a long chat, she proved to be a true loving and caring person. Several months later, she became my wife and we are now blessed with a beautiful teenage daughter.

2 A Dog is Truly a Man’s Best Friend

IMMIGRATION STORIES

the medical treatment of a DOG. That was how much one of my work colleagues spent to get her dog operated on. And the dog died.

Where I am from in Africa, most dogs are guard dogs. Don’t get me wrong, dogs are some men’s’ best friends in Africa too, but even for the minority of such owners that I could imagine, few would have such a budget for a dog. The Gods in the West must be different and crazy. You have to live in the West to get any close to understanding how pets like dogs are the only friends millions of people have to keep them happy. I have to get myself a dog in the West.

3 Which one is the real Will.i.aim of Black Eyed Peas

Gambian Lewis Bojang (left) looks so much like Will.i.am (right), to the extent that he is frequently mistaken for the hip hop Black Eyed Peas star and gets VIP treatment everywhere he goes (As reported in Daily Mail-UK in May 2013)

• 37-year-old Lewis Bojang is the same height and age as the singer.

People often approach him for photo ops and autographs.

But Lewis actually moved to UK about 5 years ago from The Gambia. People ask if they are related, and some of his friends now call him Will.

• His wife Karen, an office manager, was the first to spot the resemblance, and she said: ‘I looked at Will.i.am on the television and then looked across at Lewis and something suddenly clicked. I can’t believe we didn’t notice it sooner but we never really followed Will.i.am or were interested in his music.’

• Lewis said: ‘I am always getting noticed, and in the street I can often hear people saying I look like Will.i.am.’

I never understood this phrase until I came to the West. Never in my life of growing up in Africa would I have thought that anyone would spend £5,000(almost $10,000) on

• Key Facts since the spotting: Lewis signed up to a lookalike agency and now gets paid for appearances.

Acting lessons helped him look and sound more like the real star.

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s e l p u o C Page

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How to beat jet lag

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our health should always come first. Jet lag refers to disturbed sleep patterns. It happens when your normal body clock is disrupted by travelling through several time zones.

The symptoms can include fatigue, disorientation and an inability to sleep.

Jet lag is worse when you move from west to east because the body finds it harder to adapt to a shorter day than a longer one. When you’re flying across different time zones, it can take your body a bit of time to adjust.

Every person responds differently to sleep deprivation depending on their own approaches to sleep, need for sleep, and their experience as a traveller in the case of jet lag. Your ability to cope can also change depending on your age and lifestyle factors. For example, you may be able to cope well when you travel around the world in your 20s, but find jet lag knocks you out when travelling with children in your 40s, and to find in your 60s that it’s all easy again without the pressures of work or children. However, the following may be useful for any traveller affected by jet lag.

1. Before you travel Top up your sleep – Make sure you’re fully rested before you travel.

If you’re flying overnight try to get a bit of sleep on the flight if the people at your destination are supposed to be in bed. This will help you stay up until night time once you arrive at your destination.

Medication – If you normally take medication according to a strict timetable such as insulin for diabetics or oral contraceptives, please seek medical advice before your journey.

Change your sleep routine- Travel direction has some impact on whether or not you feel jet lagged. A few days before you travel, start getting up earlier if you’re travelling east, and going to bed later if you’re travelling west. During the flight, try to eat and sleep according to your destination’s local time.

2. During your journey Keep hydrated – On the day of your flight, drink plenty of fluids, but please avoid alcoholic and caffeine drinks (such as coffee, tea and cola), which can disturb sleep. Dehydration is one of the symptoms of jet lag, especially after sitting in a dry aeroplane cabin for many hours. The side effects of dehydration can do more harm than good.

Preparing for sleep – During your flight, try to create the right conditions when preparing for sleep. Eyeshades and earplugs may help you sleep. Regular exercise during the day may also help you sleep, but avoid strenuous exercise immediately before bedtime. Sleeping medication is not recommended as it doesn’t help your body to adjust naturally to a new sleeping pattern.

3. At your destination Target you sleep pattern – Try to sleep or stay awake according to your destination time. If it’s daylight at your destination, try to avoid sleeping on the plane. If it’s night time at your destination try to sleep when on the plane. A minimum block of four hours’ sleep during the local night – known as “anchor sleep” – is thought to be necessary to help you adapt to a new time zone. If possible, make up the total sleep time by taking naps during the day.

When in Rome, DO as the Roman’s do – first, set your watch to the local time of your destination. This helps you to mentally prepare for the new time zone. If it’s daytime at your destination, spend as much time outside as you can. Exposure to daylight at the destination will usually help your brain adjust to the new time zone faster. Remain active. Don’t just sit in front of the television. If you desperately need a nap, take one only for 30 minutes. Anything longer than that will make the jet lag worse.

If you’re on a business trip, no time for play, no problem. Going out for a small walk in the sun is equally effective. Can’t get outside? No excuses. Open the curtains to let in as much sun as possible, and do some exercises in the room if possible.

The cycle of light and dark is one of the most important factors in setting the body’s internal clock.

Timing – for people attending meetings, if possible, arrive at your destination a day early to help adjust to the new routine. This is highly recommended for those going to a high level meeting or conferences that last several days or more.

What if you are on a short trip – For stays of less than three or four days, it may be better for the traveller to remain on “home time”, that is, timing your activities such as sleeping and eating to occur as if you are still back home to minimize disruption to the normal sleep-wake cycle although this is not always practical. So, if you are going on a short trip, simply drop all the above and set off and return home in the same mind set.

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Sierra Leone Excellence Award 30.11.13

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Iba Ceesay-Top Male Model of Gambia

William Brown Director & Founder of GMA

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Fashion by Glamorous Models Africa (GMA)

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Iba winner of Face of Fashion 4 Africa 2012

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

Queen AFRIQ Cars Winner

Aisha outfit by Phizion Designs (Margaux Ndure)

Aisha - outfit by TARA DESIGNS

Adama Jobe-first runner up Queen of Companies representing Elite Fitness Gym Modou August Chan & Aisha- outfits by Phizion Designs (Margaux Ndure)

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F. Touray & Others-outfits by Phuzion (Margaux Ndure)

Yassin Jagne winner Queen of companies 2010 Gambia) & runner up Miss ECOWAS 2010 held in Sierra Leone

Iba-outfit by TARA DESIGNS

Iba outfit designed by YAWS CREATIONS

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