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For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman. www.ewomanmagazine.com

Caribbean Women

Breaking Barriers

Fabulous Spring Fashion Discovering

ZAMBIA

SEX and the

Christian Woman

e Woman Goes To New York

RBC/Finco’s

Tanya McCartney on Work, Love and Giving Back

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

Available exclusively at

Tonique Williams Darling Highway • Nassau, Bahamas • 242 356 7502

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January/February 2012 Volume 1/Issue 2

For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman.

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FEATURES

January/February 2012 Volume 1/Issue 2

For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman. www.ewomanmagazine.com

Caribbean Women

Breaking Barriers

15 Women Who Made Us Proud

SEX

and the Christian Woman

Fabulous Spring Fashion

e Woman Goes To New York

Discovering

ZAMBIA RBC/FiNCo’s

Tanya McCarTney

16 An Unholy Affair?

Churches on Sex and Marriage

on Work, Love and Giving Back

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

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Tanya McCartney on, work, love and Giving Back

44 ebazaar Shop Caribbean Style

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8 Caribbean women breaking barriers 49 Fabulous Spring Fashion

The Bold & The Beautiful – Spring 2012

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I n si d e this issue

12 Love in the Caribbean 14 Natasha Strachan asks – What’s Your WAR CRY?

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Three Steps to the Ultimate Power Pout

15 Women Who Made us Proud 16 Churches on Sex and Marriage 21 A Work of Art in Motion 26 Purpose & Passion 27 Making a Dollar Out of Fifteen Cents!

28 Heart Health 31 Mind Shift 46 Zambia 67 For My Daughters 70 Eating and Drinking for Charity 73 Celebrating Blue Food 74 The Literal Toll of Cancer

d e part m e n ts From Portia 10 e-power your life 25 e-bazaar 43 Quiet Moments 48

e-joy 64 e-life 70 eHappenings 80

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For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman.

CEO & Editorial Director Portia Harrigan Copy Editor Steven Goodman Writers Photographers Jamaica John Myers Jr. Sabriya Simon Bahamas Inderia Saunders Nadine Thomas Brown Jay Arie BVI Kaletha Henry Todd Vansickle Crystal Kanyuck Anya Brewley Richard Georges Khari Adams Art Direction & Production Adriana Naylor Fashion Editor Terry Donovan Beauty Editor Tyrina Neely Books Editor Omonike Robinson-Pickering

A TALK SHOW CREATED TO INSPIRE, MOTIVATE, AND UPLIFT

Join us on www.facebook.com/TamiLive and log onto www.tamilive.tv

"Just Be Happy!"

Social Media Expert Bayyina Black Web Editor Rahel Worede This Magazine is published 6 times a year. The entire contents of this Magazine is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. We reserve the right to edit, rewrite, or refuse material and we are not responsible for products that appear in this publication. Š eWoman magazine 2012

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Beautiful accessories for every room!

Contributors Cherylee Pinder (Bahamas) Natasha Strachan (Bahamas) Liesl Harewood (Barbados) Dr. Shakima Vanterpool (British Virgin Islands) Judy Haycraft (British Virgin Islands) Onika Pascal (Caribbean Diaspora) Bayyina Black (Social Media Manager) Cherrise Moe (Trinidad) Advertising Sales Portia Davis-Harrigan (Bahamas) Email:info@ewomanmagazine.com Rebecca Essumang (British Virgin Islands) Tel: 284 343 6895 • email:ressumang@ewomanmagazine.com Mindy Jordan (St. Lucia) Tel:758 451 2662/758 721 2662 • email:mjordan@ewomanmagazine.com Rebecca Essumang (U.S. Virgin Islands) Tel: 284 343 6895 • email:ressumang@ewomanmagazine.com

Published by Oyster Publications Inc Chairman Russell Harrigan General enquiries to info@ewomanmagazine.com

Registered Offices P.O. Box SB50961 | Nassau | N.P. | Bahamas P.O. Box 3369 | Road Town | Tortola | British Virgin Islands

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P.O. Box 6347, St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands www.ewomanmagazine.com Bahamas | British Virgin Islands | Cayman Islands | Jamaica | St. Lucia | United States Virgin Islands

Fall in love‌ with your heart!.

Make this Valentine a celebration of you.

A good heart is a good life.

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empowering the caribbean

Camps & Retreats eWoman Retreat Do you find yourself wishing you had more time in your days and in your nights, time for yourself, time to catch your breath on all the things you meant to do for you, but don’t?

If so, come join us at the inaugural eWoman Retreat at Little Dix Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda in the beautiful British Virgin Islands. This weekend is just the antidote you need to put your life back on track.

Experience yoga, tennis, wine tasting, scrumptious meals, garden tours, hiking, cooking demonstrations, inspirational notes and just pure relaxation.

Leave invigorated, renewed and refreshed.

Friday June 29th to Monday July 02, 2012 $1,500.00pp all inclusive. Space is limited to 30 persons only.

eGirls Adventure Camp

The best summer camp ever—two weeks of great fun; sailing, cooking, hiking, splish/splash, the e-girls files, etiquette, garden party and more fun stuff.

Monday July 09th to Friday July 20th, 2012 At the e camp, Villa FlamboyantWindy Hill, Tortola, BVI $495.00pp-register early to reserve your space and your e-girls t-shirt Space limited to 25 girls, ages 9-12

eBoys Adventure Camp

Boys wanna have fun too! The e camp offers two great weeks of roaring excitement, sailing, hiking, cooking, scooter building, splish/ splash, the e-boys files, etiquette, bb-que and more explosive fun.

Monday July 23rd to Friday August 03rd, 2012 At the e camp, Villa FlamboyantWindy Hill, Tortola, BVI $495.00pp—register early to reserve your space and your e-boys t-shirt.

Space limited to 25 boys, ages 9-12

Space is limited – register today at www.womensesummit.com or email: info@womensesummit.com tel: 284 494 8011

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Live this year with

Oh my goodness, it is a new year once again and we are now in our second issue of eWoman Magazine.

The response has been overwhelming and we want to thank all of you for sending us your best wishes and encouragement. We are full of joy this new year, pursuing our passions and hoping that you are to.

The Caribbean is sometimes a challenging place to be if you want to live outside the box. A young woman wanting to pursue the arts is often discouraged because our societies place more value on law, medicine and accounting, relegating other career choices to the very rear burner, that one behind the back burner.

Our young girls are frequently told that there is no future in painting, fashion, music, dance or any other career choice outside of the societal norm. But, this could not be further from the truth. What is true however is that if you pursue what you love with distinct purpose, with drive and determination, you can be as successful as any lawyer or doctor and more importantly, you will be happier and more fulfilled.

After all, what is life if you are miserable doing that one thing that you spend most of your time doing.

In this issue of eWoman, we speak to eight women from around the region who are breaking barriers— from a millionaire scrap metal trader in Jamaica, to a global fashion designer from Trinidad and Tobago and a Film Festival Producer from the Bahamas.

These women bucked the trend, followed their passion and they are achieving greatness (page 55). Our Inderia Saunders sits down with Tanya McCartney, Managing Director of RBC FINCO, Lawyer, Lecturer, TV Show Host and former Politician, to determine what drives her, what keeps her striving for more and what she thinks professional women can do to make their communities more sustainable (page 36).

We had great fun working on this issue and we hope you have fun reading it. It’s a new year after all, go out break some barriers, break some glass, pursue your passion and do what makes you happiest! eWoman magazine

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eWoman magazine

For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman.

eWoman Magazine launches our “Empower You” campaign on January 16th, 2012

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March/April 2012 Volume 1/Issue 3

For the enchanting, exuberant, enterprising, extraordinary, empowered Caribbean woman. www.ewomanmagazine.com

What Makes Us

TICK

Win amazing prizes from our partners throughout the Caribbean and the United States.

The Caribbean

Power List

WHO Do you think you are?

Five grand prize winners will be featured in our “Sweetness of Summer” Issue, due out in early May 2012.

Managing the

DaiLy grinD

OneonOne

With Soca Superstar Alison Hinds

Live | On Line | In Print www.ewomanmagazine.com For Details & Updates LIKE us facebook.com/eWomanMagazine

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There’s nothing like love in the Caribbean!

Sense Spa – Little Dix Bay Resort

M

ost people send flowers, chocolates or take a loved one out for the greatest meal of the year at a fine restaurant.

Have you grown tired of roses? Do the chocolates make a bee line for your hips? Are you bored with his favourite restaurant?

Not to worry. eWoman Magazine has some heart warming tips just for you. There are so many other beautiful ways to express your love and the Caribbean is one of the most romantic places on earth. Here are five ideas that are sure to keep him coming back for more.

• Wind down together with an outdoor couples massage at your favourite spa. Our favourites-Sandals, with locations in Jamaica, St. Lucia, The Bahamas and Antigua and Little Dix Bay Resort and Spa, British Virgin Islands.

• What’s more romantic than a specially catered lunch for two at one of our amazing National Parks-we love Morne Trois Piton National Park in Dominica, Grand Etang National Park in

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Grenada and Virgin Islands National Park in the United States Virgin Islands.

• Add a new twist to your Valentine’s dinner and dine on the water on a Caribbean dinner cruise-we like Majestic Lady Dinner Cruise, Nassau, Bahamas and Tango Caribbean Dinner Cruise out of Simpson Bay, St. Maarten.

• Spend the night and wake up to a delicious Caribbean breakfast at one of the fine Bed and Breakfast Inns-our favourites -The Blue House Boutique Bed & Breakfast, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Sweetfield Manor Historic Inn and Bed & Breakfast, Brittons New Road, St. Michael, Barbados and Shangri-la Cayman’s Luxury Bed & Breakfast, Sticky Toffee Lane, West Bay, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

Cassava pancakes with carmelized bananas

• The tourists love it and we love it too. There’s nothing like sailing from island to island, enjoying all that each unique island has to offer and relishing in romantic dinners on deck. We especially love sailing the British Virgin Islands and Bequia in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Send him a note and let him know that you want to do something different or send him a note letting him know that you have a special Valentine’s surprise just for him. Either way, this will be one of your best ever! 

The Blue House- Jamaica

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Natasha Strachan asks – what’s your

war cry?

I n today’s market driven society, we’re not just selling products, we’re selling personalities and I have to admit that I am intrigued by the notion of personal branding.

When people hear your name, they are supposed to go “Oh, I know you…you’re the gal that does xyz” and immediately think of the specifics that are particular to your “brand”. That is the new success. Once upon a time the Good Housekeeping Magazine seal of approval was a really big deal.

Now, Oprah’s seal of approval is a far better ticket. Simon Cowell, and his trademark snarky-ness, can almost completely crush your music career and your self esteem, but behold, if he gives you outright praise and affirmation, well, you might as well be double platinum and sitting at the Grammy’s. Branding is in.

So do we all run out now and start “bßranding”? Should we move more toward the self-commodification in an effort to be recognized and valued? It’s an interesting call, especially for us as women, mainly because we have a long history of being objectified. What if your passion or purpose does not lend itself to a hyper-intense, self-focused marketing plan? What if you are cash strapped and averse to Twitter? Or what if, like me, personal branding just doesn’t fit with your personality? Well, while I have not necessarily branded myself, I do have my own slogan. Yes, I have a slogan, and I think every woman should.

From as early as 1886 Coca Cola has had slogans, on average they change about every 2-3 years. They are short, catchy, cool and bold. They proclaim things that, honestly, are pretty audacious, things such as:“The best friend thirst ever had”(1937),“It’s the real thing”(1969), or most recently“Life Begins Here”(2011).

Really? Life starts with Coke? A bit incredulous? I understand, but a slogan has to be teetering on the edge of impossibility. It has to be bigger and bolder than the actual product.

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Natasha Strachan

The word slogan has its roots in the Celtic language, Scottish Gaelic. Translated from the original “sluagh-ghairm”, it basically means “army” or “host” + “cry”. So my slogan is my army cry, my battle cry, if you will. I have taken it from scripture, “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1. When I speak it I envision myself as an over-comer, as triumphant and filled with praise and gratitude. I see myself as a perpetual optimist, defiant and unyielding in my goals. It is how I want to face the world everyday, and yes, it is so much bigger and bolder than me.

When I am faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges and obstacles, it is bigger than me! When I have to confront personal or professional failures and fears, it is bolder than me!

When I feel attacked on every side, it is my war cry. It is what I shout out loud! And when I do, I can see myself winning.

I don’t wear my slogan on a T-shirt, although the thought has crossed my mind more than once. I have never “put it out there”to be vetted by family or friends. It’s my answer, no matter what the question is. So what’s your army cry for 2012?

What daring, life-giving, empowering tagline will you add to your life? It’s free and it’s potent no matter what you are pursuing, whether it is being a mother, wife, entrepreneur or student. Your slogan, if you truly believe in it, will fuel the fire inside of you. This year, let your army cry shake the world. 

Women Who Made Us Proud

2011 was a great year for women in our Caribbean region.

Two beautiful Caribbean women kept us glued to our television sets and at the edge of our couches for weeks on end, making us proud as they became the winners of two coveted titles; Project Runway, Heidi Klum’s show for aspiring fashion designers and X-Factor USA, Simon Cowell’s show, where contestants vie to beat the competition with their vocal talents.

Melanie Amaro

Anya Ayoung-Chee As a former Ms. Trinidad and Tobago, the beautiful Anya Ayoung-Chee shocked the world when she became Project Runway’s Season 9 winner last fall, confirming that Caribbean women are indeed competitive on an international stage even in fashion design.

After weeks of challenges, Anya won the highly publicized competition by doing what she does best: Being creative and representing the Caribbean. Anya made us all proud by enveloping her regional flavor into all of her designs, despite learning to sew just four months prior to the show.

Born in New York to Trinidadian parents, as the only girl in a family of eight, Anya moved to Trinidad when she was two-years-old where she received her early education before continuing on to London and New York. She is of Chinese descent, representative of the many ethnicities that make us all one in the region.

Now all eyes are on Anya as she uses her $100,000 prize winnings to launch her own fashion line — one reflective of the easy, breezy, sexy vibe of the Caribbean.

Before she even took her first steps or completed a full sentence, Melanie Amaro was singing her heart out. The 19-year-old sensation was born in Fort Lauderdale, FL and raised by her grandparents in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Melanie admits that she doesn’t remember the first time she sang, but retells the story her mother has told repeatedly.

“At six months a baby’s spine isn’t aligned yet to sit up straight on her own, but I was sitting up in the crib, on my own and just singing. She said she didn’t have a clue what I was singing, but it sounded so pretty and she said it was music. She said right after I finished singing I would just lay my head back down and fall asleep,” says Melanie.

Because Melanie’s mother recognized her great talent, she encouraged her to try out for The X Factor in 2011. Melanie auditioned for the first season of The X Factor USA before judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger and L.A. Reid, singing “Listen” by Beyoncé. Even though she wasn’t a part of the original Top 16 chosen to move on to the finals, she received a huge surprise when Simon Cowell showed up at her Florida home inviting her back to the competition. Admitting that he made a huge mistake, Simon added Melanie to the finalist making it now the Top 17.

On December 22 she was named The X Factor USA 2011 winner. Her prize was a $5 million recording contract with Syco Music and Sony Music.

“I’m just so happy and I don’t know what to say. This is something I’ve wanted for all my life!” –Melanie Amaro eWoman magazine

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An un-holy affair?!?

Churches And on

sex

marriage “I was totally against the idea that we needed to have a secular reggae artist into the four walls of the church, or anywhere that the church was holding an event to explain, show or demonstrate anything as it regards the fulfillment of one’s partner,” said Kevin Harris,Pastor and host of a morning radio show in the Bahamas.

By Nadine Thomas-Brown

Recently, Pastor Arthur Duncombe decided to have a conference and bring in popular Jamaican, female, dancehall artist Macka Diamond to teach the women in his Bahamian congregation erotic dance moves to keep their men interested in bed.

As you might imagine the move by the City of Praise Church head created a storm of controversy within the church community.

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While Harris admitted“there is a need to address sexuality within the church and to be open and transparent about it, and to help Christians who are struggling [and] singles who are approaching marriage, within the proper confines,” the vocal clergyman said it was “unfortunate that Duncombe went ahead with the conference, despite the outcry by so many people.”

Yet two years later, Duncombe still defends his actions. He says that teaching his congregation ‘those moves’ had been a means of helping them to keep their husbands from being enticed away.

He says he felt a need to give the Christian women in his congregation some “know how” in the battle to keep their husbands interested in them sexually, as it was a concern many Christian men and women had brought before him over the course of his eight years as a pastor.

According to Duncombe, many Christian women were so caught up in their Christianity that they were neglecting their spousal duties and this was his way of trying to teach the females in his congregation that intercourse between married couples was ordained by God and that the very nature of how humans came into being should show that God had no problems with the act.

Many Christian women were so caught up in their Christianity that they were neglecting their spousal duties.”

Joann Ferguson, 39, a Christian woman who has been married for five years is a member of Duncombe’s church. She says that she believes that it is relevant and extremely important that Christian couples pay as much attention to their partner’s sexual appetites as they do to their spiritual growth, as this is a very important part of any serious malefemale relationship.

“We have a lot of Christian marriages which are falling apart and sex is a very important part of marriage,” she said, adding that while many women were Christians, many of their husbands were not and that realistically they had to,“rest the Holy Ghost down and perform the duties of a wife.You can’t be too sanctified to satisfy,”she said.

For many couples, the disconnect between the sex act and worship of God, has led to the partner seeking their pleasures elsewhere or divorcing themselves from the relationship. This is something that 49-year-old Sheryl Christie, who has been married for two years, knows only too well.

“I was an active church member for many years and lost one husband, partly because of the lack of communication on sexual matters. He was a Christian as well, [but] both of us were just too holy to commit

or share our intimate feelings with each other,” said Christie.

Now with her new husband who is not “saved”, Christie said that she has come to realize the importance of that aspect of married life and was determined to learn all she could to keep the fires burning.“You have to handle your bedroom business, and marriage is honorable in the sight of God and the bed is undefiled,”she said.

Gary Chapman, a 73-year-old Southern Baptist Pastor and Author of Five Love Languages, a book that has sold 7.2 million copies says “good Christians don’t talk about sex, not in church and certainly not out loud.” Speaking to a crowd of 1000 people at a conference in a church outside Nashville, Tennessee, he describes this practice as the“Great Sex Swindle”.

He called this idea fallacious, something that was echoed by Katherine Arthur, a married 29-year-old woman, who was quite vocal on the topic of religion and its impact on her sex life. “ It is very difficult for someone who has had sexual relations before embracing Christianity.

This part of your life can no longer exist.”

However as a human being and one used to that type of intimacy it is extremely hard,” says ,Arthur. “As someone new to

the faith you are confronted by the idea that celibacy is the ideal and that it is a sin to masturbate or engage in any form of sexual relations outside of marriage.

According to Arthur, pornography is also out of the question.“In my church’s view, porn is similar to a threesome. It’s inviting someone else into the marriage.”

Openly speaking about sex for many faiths has been taboo for years. However nowadays many churches are offering classes for singles and couples on the topic. Many younger people of the faith are incorporating today’s more open minded beliefs with longstanding taboos such as masturbation.

Thirty one year old junior pastor Eric Poitier [not his real name] is one of them.

He says sex has never been an issue in his relationship, even as a Christian single.

“We still made out [but] I stayed celibate because of my beliefs when I was dating,” he said.

Now that he is married, he says that he is enjoying all the perks of married life, especially the sex. Poitier says that he and his wife also utilize sex toys in their bid to spice up their love life.“We do everything ‘normal’ couples do,”he says.  eWoman magazine

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Three Steps to the Ultimate Power Pout

Wearing Your Best

Red

Are you ready to make a few hearts beat faster? The eyecatching ‘lady in red’ has been the inspiration for some of the most iconic love songs of all time, and for good reason. A stellar red lipstick can be one of the most powerful weapons in a woman’s cosmetic arsenal. A stimulant, colour psychology studies verify that a bold red hue raises blood pressure and causes the heart to beat faster.

Men just love women who wear red!

The high-voltage, fiery pigment associated with heat and energy is sultry yet classic. From crimson and burgundy to burnt orange and tomato red, the options are seemingly limitless. With dozens of shades to choose from, it can be intimidating finding just the right shade of red lipstick to best complement your complexion.

Not to worry. If you think you can’t pull off this musthave, yet intimidating shade, think again. Determining which shade of red flatters your complexion is the key to looking stellar in this intense, attention grabbing hue; and it’s easier than you think.

Step 1: What Shade Should I Wear?

Reds are divided into two basic categories:

Cool blue – based shades such as cranberry or wine complement women with fair, pink skin tones.

Warm orange -based shades such as brick red are more flattering on women with golden, brown skin tones.

One of the most common ways to determine whether cool or warm reds are most flattering on your skin tone is to look at your veins, are they green or blue? Those with green veins look best with warm shades of red and those with blue veins should opt for cool shades of red.

The ‘jewellery method’ is another quick trick to determine which shades of red are most flattering for you.

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Think of your favourite pieces of jewellery.

If you look better in gold jewellery, warm, orange-based shades of red are right for you. Alternatively if silver jewellery suits you best then cooler, blue-based shades of red are your best option.

Step 2: W Is hatRightTypeforofMe?Lipstick

Once you have chosen a flattering shade of red for your complexion, it’s time to choose the type of lipstick that will work best for you. Lipsticks come in a variety of types from moisturizing formulas to matte varieties. Choosing the right type of lipstick should be based on the texture of your lips and the look you desire.

Matte Lipsticks: This type of lipstick gives a flat, no shine texture, however the pigmentation is very high, making an ideal choice if you want rich, bold colour. Matte lipsticks tend to be drying, but are a great option if you are looking for a lipstick with staying power. The lack of gloss and shine make them a good option for day wear. They are also practical, wear them alone for a matte finish or top them off with a gloss for a shimmery look.

Cream Lipsticks: This type of lipstick is a great option for women with thin lips.

Cream lipsticks contain more wax than other types of lipsticks, which provides great protection for the lips but can leave lips feeling dry.

Step 3: How Do I Apply Correctly?

You’ve chosen the perfect shade of red and you have the right type of lipstick in hand, now it’s time to apply it like an expert.

Start with a smooth canvas. A bold lip colour like red will draw attention to any cracks or flakes in the skin. Exfoliate your lips to remove any dry, flaky skin. A quick technique is to run a soft-bristled toothbrush over your lips to remove any pesky dead skin cells.

the top lip. Follow the natural shape of your lips in short strokes to the corners and repeat for the bottom lip.

For longer wearing lip colour and precise application, apply lipstick using a lip brush. Start in the centre of the lip and move outward to the corners.

For longer wear, blot the first layer of lipstick lightly with a facial tissue. Two coats are better than one! Apply a second coat as you did the first one.

When wearing a red lip, keep your eye make-up minimal. Your favourite voluminising mascara is all that is necessary to complement your bold power pout.

Next, hydrate your lips with a good lip balm. Remove any excess lip balm with a facial tissue to prevent lip liner from smearing.

Outline your lips with lip liner. Choose a liner that is as close to the lipstick colour you will be using as possible. Warm the tip of the liner on the back of your hand and begin lining your lips in the middle of

A red lip is the stiletto of cosmetics. Kick your cosmetic routine up a few notches with a stunning red lip that will have you turning heads with every step.

Moisturizing Lipsticks: If smooth, moisturized lips are a priority for you, a moisturizing lipstick with lots of conditioning ingredients such as shea butter is your best bet. These lipsticks have a tendency to wear off easily though, due to all the moisturizing ingredients, requiring you to reapply often. They provide a wet, shiny texture without the need for additional gloss.

Sheer/Satin Lipsticks: Sheer lipsticks are not very high in pigmentation, but they do tend to provide more moisture than other types of lipsticks because of their high oil content. Similar to moisturizing lipsticks, their conditioning ingredients cause them to wear easily, so be prepared to reapply often.

eWoman magazine

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Lisa Nichol’s of the Secret and Chicken Soup for the Soul autographs book for a fan.

The Women’s Empowerment Summit returns to the Bahamas -October 18th & 19th, 2012 Join us and some of the most amazing presenters and performers from around the region and the world for two of the

Empowerment greatest days of your life.

WOMEN’S

SUMMIT

EMPOWERING, EDUCATING, INSPIRING

www.womensesummit.com Like Us On Facebook

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A work of

Art In Motion

Monica Watkins

tories are often told of women changing the world only after remarkable achievements have occurred, but sometimes highlighting the ongoing journey for many women is just as noteworthy.

Neither robbery nor funding challenges have deterred stunning Ford model Monica Watkins so far in her quest to make earthquake-ravaged Haiti a better place for women and children. She talks to eWoman about what it’s like to be at the beginning of her uphill battle to help to change the poverty-stricken Caribbean nation.

EW: What exactly are you doing in Haiti with Art In Motion? When did you start?

MW: I have been traveling to Haiti for about nine months now. I’ve worked

with several organizations. For Diakonos International and Diaspora Community services, I taught painting workshops and for Diakonos we curated a couple of exhibits and raised funds for the orphanage, Diaspora Community Service’s Clinic in Nazone. We taught art classes as well.

With Pou Soleil Leve, we were just able to do an assessment of one of their schools with plans to go back and create a sustainable arts program for their 200-plus students in two schools.

Haiti’s Hope sponsored my first trip to Haiti. I had a monthly radio show, Art In Motion Radio, on Urban Latino Radio and we would have one charity on per month to speak about their platform.

I had Haiti’s Hope on one month and they asked me to come and teach at The Diakonos Orphanage. I accepted their offer and my life has been greatly enriched by those beautiful children in a country that deserves some redemption.

There is great promise in Haiti. Despite what many people say and my own horrible experiences there, I believe that Haiti is worth fighting for.

EW: What do you hope to achieve with this project?

MW: I have big plans for my work in Haiti for the next few years. I am working on bringing a group of organizations together to create an alliance. This alliance would create national days of art.

(In Carrefour, Haiti at first and then branching out to other communities) We will invite over 200 children from surrounding communities to paint with some incredible volunteer teachers from the US using translators. We will take that artwork and create several exhibits. With the proceeds from the exhibits, we will start the process of building and creating curricula for a school for performance and visual arts.

This will be a free school in Haiti.

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EW: What is a day on the ground like for you?

MW: A day on the ground for me consists of starting with phone calls, emails, and working on press kits. I don’t really have a staff. I have my partner, Nick Cannell, but he has a full time job and helps out when he’s available. I then start taking meetings around noon. I check in with my visual artist, Alex Louis, in Haiti via Skype. I teach art classes with GEMS in Haiti some afternoons. I have castings with my agency Ford Models throughout the day as well. It’s sort of a juggling act. Keeping all of the balls in the air and not allowing any one of them to drop. I always have the children’s faces in the back of my mind and that keeps me going.

EW: What are some reactions you have received with this program, both in Haiti and in the U.S.?

MW: I have had nothing but positive feedback from people. Both, from the organizations I work with in Haiti and from people in the US. I have so many organizations wanting to partner with Art In Motion, creating art exhibits which could provide a sustainable stream of donations, awareness, and income for their organizations.

EW: How do you get funding for the program?

MW: I have paid for all of my work with my own funds. I am actively seeking sponsorship now because I can’t afford to do that anymore. I would love to be independently wealthy and able to afford to fund all of my projects, but that is not realistic. Modeling has

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“I look at the faces of my children there and my focus is again sharp and precise. They mean so very much to me.”

been great for me, but I need others to come on board to help me fund the projects if they believe in the platform.

EW: What are some of your biggest challenges?

MW: Some of the biggest challenges have been funding. I was also dealt a big blow when over $13,000 worth of my equipment, laptop, phone, and 40 priceless paintings created by my children at Diakonos were stolen. Those paintings were to be sold at Art Basel and The Art of Beauty Experience Exhibits. This does not deter my work there though. I will never give up on my dreams for a brighter tomorrow for Haiti. I will keep investing in Haiti’s children because they will create the infrastructure which will salvage that country and return it to it’s ‘Pearl Of The Caribbean’ glory.

EW: To date, what has been your biggest accomplishment?

MW: My first exhibit was incredible. I created my own gallery space, self-published a book, and directed my first short film. We raised about $2000 for Housing Works. More importantly, we raised so much awareness for this incredible cause.

EW: Where do you hope to be with this project five years down the line?

MW: Five years from now I would love to be in the process of building several schools for performance/visual arts in impoverished nations all over the world. I would love for the exhibits we are creating to be the catalyst to create sponsorship possibilities for these schools. To create more artistic, healthy, and fulfilled lives for under-privileged children in this country and other countries is the legacy I would like to leave in this world.

EW: Do you work with a team or alone? Who is your support system for this?

MW: I have a few volunteers that dedicate themselves when they have time and my partner/boyfriend Nick Cannell. My core group of friends are really stepping up and supporting me on so many levels. The love I receive from my friends and family is my constant inspiration for what I do.

EW: Why should the public at large pay attention to what’s going on in Haiti?

MW: Haiti is not a lost cause. Even with all of the horrible things happening there

I want people to know that. To see the hope in the children that I work with really brings that point home for me. I will continue to dedicate myself to proving that to people. The great artists and musicians of Haiti are pretty much unknown to the general public. Art In Motion has and will continue to cultivate and nurture the young artists of Haiti because they deserve the opportunity to be known and to be able to rise out of that rubble. Their incredible artistry will do that for them … 

eWoman magazine

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e power

Get a handle on your finances, your health, your life.

Read on for powerful information from our eWoman experts.

Power up for 2012!

eWoman magazine

25

Ask Cherrylee

e

Cherrylee Pinder

very year begins with the same ole thing – making resolutions. Why do we put ourselves through this – making promises we most likely will not keep? The truth is, we say it or resolve because it’s nice to hear or it’s what we feel needs to be done. Quite frankly why don’t we consider what we love, what brings us joy and what feeds our spirit. Take a moment and think of what you would do if there were no limitations on your life. What is that “thing” you are passionate about? Have you ever thought that this “thing” is what you were designed/created to do? All this time you have been operating outside of your purpose. Thus, you cannot follow-through with promises made or goals set.

This year, be true to “you”. Don’t allow limits to define you. Carve out your path or niche in order to have your true self align with what you do daily. Is it a new career, a business, new skill or acquisition? Begin right now to formulate how to pursue your

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eWoman magazine

Purpose

& P

assion

“Quite frankly, why don’t we consider what we love, what brings us joy and what feeds our spirit. “ purpose. Write down every reason why it could work and why this is best for you. “But Cherrylee, this is crazy! I can’t leave my job….. I can’t go back to school….I can’t…I can’t…”

See why I didn’t tell you to write the pros and cons?! You already have enough “can’ts” to fill the page! Focus only on the possibility. This has to happen. If you have about half of your life span left, then time is of the essence. Moreover, if you don’t do it now, when will you? Don’t wait for the kids to grow up! Don’t wait for the economy to rebound! Don’t wait.

My sistahs, my personal experience has produced a surprisingly rewarding

life. Was it hard? Did I have doubts?

Of course! But I didn’t let it cripple me and cause me not to make the decision that would only result in a life of regret. I leapt and that leap of faith allows me to live out my purpose daily. I feel alive and I couldn’t be happier. So why should I be in this position without company?!! Leap and notice how your wings will allow you to take flight.

Ask somebody!  Cherrylee is a motivational speaker, human resource trainer and counselor who resides in Nassau, Bahamas. She can be contacted at cherryleepinder@coralwave.com

Making a dollar out of

fifteen cents!

Don’t get caught off guard yet again.

Start the year off with a budget that works.

It is often said that women really know how to make a dollar stretch, but no one ever talks about how the worry over maximizing those funds can sometimes lead to much personal stress and grief.

Organizing monthly finances can help ease that tension and give much better control over many aspects of ones life. Budgeting is one way to get that done and can benefit the entire household.

Though it might sound intimidating, a budget is a simple plan outlining how much money you will receive (through income and other revenue streams) and how much you will spend.

According to the experts at www.moneymattersbvi.org, knowing how much money you earn and spend each month can put one in a better position both to save and plan for the future.

Take these five suggested tips by Money Matters BVI (brought to you by the British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission) as a start to financial freedom:

What is your monthly income?

First, start by determining what your monthly income is. Use your net pay, which is the amount you take home after taxes, Social Security and other deductions. Include all sources of income; for example, if you have a second job, a rental property, or receive child support or alimony, these should also be added to your monthly income.

What are your monthly expenses?

Next, determine your monthly expenses or the amount of money you spend each month. Some expenses, like your mortgage, car payments, child support and student loans are fixed, that is you are required to pay the same amount every month at the same time of the month. Others are more flexible. For example, the money you spend on food, electricity, beauty needs and entertainment may change from month to month. If an unexpected expense comes up, such as a doctor’s visit, you may want to cut back on some flexible expenses for the next few months in order to balance your budget and make sure you are not spending more than you are earning.

If you shop frequently at a particular supermarket or a particular business, find out about any discounts they may have that may include you.

Noting what you spend each day for a month will give you a good idea of where your money is going and just how much that daily cup of coffee or bush tea is costing you on a monthly basis.

Make sure you pay your bills on time so you don’t get hit with late payment or reconnection fees.

More money at the end of the month?

Compare all your income to all your expenses. If your monthly budget shows you have more income than expenses, you should put at least half of that extra money in your savings account each month or invest it in a mutual fund or in some other way.

More month at the end of your money?

If you have more expenses than income, you need to check your spending and make some adjustments because the month hasn’t finished, but your money has. You have more month at the end of your money, when you should have more money at the end of the month. If you regularly find yourself in that situation, you need to reduce your expenses.

If you have loans and are having trouble paying them off, talk to your lender to see if you can reduce your payments or how best they can accommodate your situation.

If you can’t cut back on your expenses, you may have to look at ways to increase your income, such as starting a small business or getting a second job. You can also ask for a raise in your salary; just make sure that you actually deserve the raise and that you can justify asking for the salary increase. 

Small ways to save in your budget

Save money by taking your lunch to work, rather than buying from a restaurant.

Write down your grocery list and stick to it when you go to the supermarket. This will help to reduce impulsive and unnecessary purchases.

Get special discounts - Some supermarkets have membership cards that offer discounts and other rewards for members. Most supermarkets also offer special discounts for seniors.

Other business establishments give discounts not only to seniors, but also to police officers and other specialized workers.

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HeartHealth As February is heart health month, Dr. Vanterpool answers questions on one of the major health concerns of the modern Caribbean woman.

Dr. Shakima Vanterpool

Dear Dr. Vanterpool, I’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes and my mother who was diabetic died of a heart attack 3 years ago. Is there a link between the two? If so, how can I reduce my risk of having a heart attack?

There is certainly a link. Actually, diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Diabetes is considered as a circulatory disease, i.e. a disease that affects the blood vessels. The persistently high blood sugars cause increased fatty deposits in the blood vessel walls. You may hear your doctor refer to the blood fats as cholesterol and triglycerides.

They result in hardened and progressively narrow blood vessels that compromise blood supply to major areas such as the heart, brain, kidneys, eyes and even your legs. Sometimes deposits may break off, and travel and block smaller vessels, say in the heart resulting in heart attack. The process of fatty deposits is a function of age, however with diabetes it has a more rapid course. As such, persons with diabetes are twice as likely to develop a heart attack and stroke earlier than the average person.

In light of the fact that you have an additional risk factor of a family history of heart disease, you should take a proactive approach to your heart health. A lifestyle change involving a healthy diet, exercise and weight loss is an excellent way to gain better blood sugar control and reduce the fats in the blood (i.e. bad cholesterol). Try to keep your waistline less than 35 inches. You should also keep an eye on your blood pressure and avoid smoking. The sooner you make these changes, the better your chances of avoiding a heart attack.

Dear Dr. Vanterpool, what are some of the leading causes of heart disease in the Caribbean?

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is a condition we are seeing more prevalent in the 21st century.

This is due to the shift towards long-term diseases or chronic non-communicable disease. Cardiovascular disease is the most prevalent of such diseases. It is responsible for 50% of all deaths in America and even more in the developing world and Caribbean. It’s actually the leading cause of death in adults worldwide.

The popular conditions, namely ‘sugar’ (Diabetes Mellitus), high blood pressure (Hypertension) and high cholesterol (bad cholesterol also known as LDL or low density lipoprotein) are major risk factors for heart disease. Smoking, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to fatty plaques of LDL being deposited in the blood vessels making them stiff and narrow. This process is known as Atherosclerosis [a-thuro-skluh-Ro-sis]. This condition is becoming the forerunner of heart disease; even more significant in the Caribbean, and the developing world.

Another important cause that is commonly missed is rheumatic fever. Children ages 5-15 years are at risk. Any child or teenager with recurrent strep throats should visit their doctor and be adequately treated. The body’s response to strep germs is to fight it and in doing so the body can

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“In light of the fact that you have an additional risk factor of a family history of heart disease, you should take a proactive approach to your heart health.”

destroy its own tissues like the heart, joints and skin. The heart damage is called Rheumatic Heart Disease.

There are many others, but Atherosclerosis and Rheumatic Heart Disease stand out and demand more dependency on our public health systems.

Dear Dr. Vanterpool, how do our cultural norms contribute to poor heart health?

behind. The ideal body weight, which is the weight where you are most healthy, should always be the goal.

Bush medicine or alternative medicine is still used to compliment or replace conventional medicinal practice in many Caribbean islands. Bush teas can sometimes interact with other medications you are taking and eliminate their health benefits. It’s always important to reveal these to your doctor before starting any medications.

Dear Dr. Vanterpool, there’s all this talk about heart attack going around. I heard that heart attacks are more common in men. As a 45-year-old woman, should I even worry?

Heart disease in women is similar to heart disease in men.

Women can have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart attacks. However, it is correct to say that heart disease is more common in men, especially men over age 55 years.

The risks of heart disease and heart attacks are at leveled playing field when a woman approaches age 65 years. The 10-year difference is due to the cardio-protective effects of estrogen in premenopausal women.

Some cultural practices can dictate or predict the health outcome of many living within its boundaries. Most commonly it lends insight to your heart health. Food is a major aspect of most Caribbean cultures and often times manifests as an unhealthy diet. A tasty Caribbean meal is a high calorie, starchy, highly seasoned one. Rice, white or embellished with peas and ground provisions are our main staples. These foods are digested in the body as sugars and stored as fat. A well-balanced meal should contain 30-35% protein (meats and poultry), 30-35% carbohydrates and about 30% fats. The starches or carbohydrates of the typical Caribbean meal make up more than 50%. The fruits and vegetable portions are taken over by high calorie salads such as coleslaw, potato salad, fried plantains and so on. A more balanced diet promotes weight control and lowers the risk of developing heart disease.

Estrogen is one of the hormones responsible for regulating menstruation. It is said that it increases the “good cholesterol” (high density lipoproteins or HDL). The HDL prevents blockage of blood vessels with the “bad cholesterol” (low density lipoprotein or LDL).

Another area that may give insight to heart health is the body habitus of the typical “Caribbean woman”, who is portrayed as the voluptuous woman, big chest and big

Dr. Shakima Vanterpool, a native of the British Virgin Islands is currently based at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau, Bahamas. Forward all questions for Dr. Vanterpool to info@ewomanmagazine.com.

As women advance in age and approach menopause their estrogen levels fall. The protective effects of the estrogen on the heart are lost by age 65 years and thus place theWoman at equal risk with the men.

At your age heart healthy behaviors should be incorporated into your lifestyle. They include a healthy diet with the use of omega-3 oils (Unsaturated fats), exercise and weight loss.

I wouldn’t say that you should worry but you should definitely make a healthy lifestyle a habit and you’ll lessen the odds of a heart attack later in life. 

eWoman magazine

29

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eWoman magazine

Mind Shift

By John Myers Jr.

Y

oga instructor Subhadra Bowman shares how yoga can trigger the transformation you need to make that quantum leap in career, improve your health and enhance your beauty naturally.

There are many ways for a woman to look beautiful and never before has it been easier to simply buy beauty in a bottle or a kit. However, sometimes even finding the right combination of potions can be quite a task – particularly so for the busy woman.

Added to that, there is rarely any product or procedure that can make you both look beautiful and healthy at the same time. But ace Yogie Subhadra Bowman says yoga is an holistic way to achieve the right balance of health and beauty for the mind and body.

“Yoga makes you look better, grow stronger and definitely grow older much more gracefully,”she shares with eWoman, during an interview at her home in the esteemed Millsborough neighbourhood in Kingston, Jamaica. Growing old with grace is a problem for Caribbean women as it is for women around the world, but more so for those who have had children.

The 41-year-old, 135-pound mother of four tells eWoman that practising Yoga “gets rid of the pooch (excess belly fat)” and that people who indulge in Yoga “are relaxed, our essence changes as well and the skin looks better”.

With more Caribbean women leading hectic lifestyles, balancing work and home and all that comes in between, many become stressed, gain weight, develop aches and pains all over, causing them to look and feel older.

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31

Even with the proliferation of oils, balms, cremes, gels, ready-made kits, pills and supplements, at best many are ineffective and our women are devoting less time to taking care of their health and beauty.

Subhadra believes that Yoga is the answer because “a woman should always look good and feel good, she shouldn’t have to give up all of that because she has work and children.”

But Subhadra was not always a fan of yoga. In fact, she knew nothing about it up to age 24, even though she has always been a fitness fanatic, hitting the gym as many as five hours a day in former years in search of complete fitness and health. So dedicated to the gym was Subhadra that she sported not just a sixpack, but rather an eight-pack abdomen, complementing a fat to body weight ratio of an amazing four percent.

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“People work to get a six-pack, I work to get eight and I achieved it!” she tells eWoman. But even with a physique near perfect, she soon found out that the path she had chosen to achieve health and wellness was having an adverse impact on her total wellbeing. “I was unhappy, actually I was extremely angry,” Subhadra shares.

“I was a gym buff for years. I put all my frustrations in life into getting fit and working out in gyms and by the fourth year I had become extremely rigid. I was fit in one area, but very unfit in another,” she explains.“I was working out for freedom, I wanted freedom but I got the reverse because of the extremity that I went in it with, as well as, not understanding the full essence of what fitness is about,”she continues.

The five-feet, four inches tall “gym-rat” turned yoga trainer complains that in having a well-toned and muscular physique,

Pose- Samakonasana (on the rope wall)

she felt more boxed in and constricted than feeling healthy and satisfied. As a result, she became distressed and found herself wanting for something that would liberate her from the “muscle prison” that she was locked in.

“When I was in this phase of despair it became very dark for me.

I cried all the time when I wasn”t in the gym...,” Subhadra says, explaining that “If you were put in a box very tightly woven you would probably try to break free and I think I had made my body into a tightly woven box. My neurological system was so constricted, my organs couldn’t breathe.”

But she found the answer to her fitness dilemma accidentally when a man bumped into her while on her way into the gym she frequented. Understandably, it made her angry at first. However, that anger eventually gave way to a state of fascination and intrigue when she realised how composed and graceful he looked while he

Pose- Salamba Sarvangasana

did his routines in another section of the gym, not at the least bothered by the unfriendly stares that were directed at him. She could not resist inquiring and found out that he practised yoga.

She took the leap and became a“yogie”and has had no regrets.

“My lifestyle is completely different now. I can’t really identify with who I was as a young woman... I don’t look the same. I don’t behave the same and I don’t live by the same rules,” the yoga trainer beamed as she sat feet-in-lap on a comfy bamboo framed sofa in the sitting room of her St Andrews home. So different has she become that regular compliments on this 135 pounds of well-toned mass is now a way of life. And she relishes every moment by using the opportunity to invite other women, and men too, to try yoga.

“I describe myself as a woman who has been through adversity and I have landed into prosperity,” she chuckles.

(Continued on page 68) eWoman magazine

33

V power

Family

Career

By Onika Pascal

Sometimes being a single mother can deter dreams of being anything else. But, as difficult and challenging as it can be – it is possible to balance a career and a family.

As a single mother, I am the breadwinner in my household. Taking care of a family, and being a career woman has been both a challenging and rewarding journey. Making a career choice requires careful thought and consideration where raising a family is concerned. But, as women and homemakers, we are used to spinning many plates in the air at once – finding the right balance between home and career is no different.

As a mother with a Caribbean background, a woman having a career and contributing to the home financially was something very foreign to me. My grandmother and aunt were both housewives (domestic engineers) all their lives. They were always tending to the chores and needs of the family. They were the home, a physical presence almost as strong as its concrete foundation. They would cook and do the laundry and made sure that a girl like me was to be molded into a homemaker. Course curriculums included home economics and sewing in Secondary School. However, times have radically evolved. While those basics are still very much the foundation of a woman’s role, our era now sees many women, from an early age, gravitating to a much different calling.

In much of today’s society, women are front and center. Women are not just secretaries or support staff anymore, they’re climbing the corporate ladder and becoming leaders of companies and even owning businesses. Despite the climb however, motherly duties are now split between home and the office. After a long day, a mother still comes home to household duties. As a boss demands undivided attention at the office, so does the family at home, and those demands must be met. My career as a senior paralegal at a prestigious law firm is demanding five days a week. Yet being a 24-hour mother to my 14 year old son is even more demanding.

As the economy continues to evolve, more and more women are becoming educated and seeking roles in the business world. They’re pursuing their passions and motherhood. Finding balance is the most challenging of it all. As the world becomes more modernised, chores have become less bothersome, but what remains constant is that balance is needed in order to maintain a functioning relationship with your career life, and your family life.

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But as women and homemakers, we are used to spinning many plates in the air at the same time – finding the right balance between home and career is no different.

That balance is constructed with prioritization. While being a working mother provides additional financial assistance, being an attentive mother is much more rewarding and necessary. The balance is most times directed to the delegation of roles to others who are able to assist.

These roles are taken up by daycare providers, a designated person to pick up a child or children after school, sometimes other family members acting as caregivers during working hours.

Sometimes in a co-parenting household, the father has to sustain a work shift that supports the working mother’s schedule.

As mothers become a growing number in the workplace in the Caribbean, the

dynamics are changing. Most employers are now reorganising to accommodate the working mother. These changes include care for the family and time allotted for family emergencies. Recently the Antigua Observer ran an article on how working mothers struggle with maintaining balance, due to the lack of flexibility in the workplace. While things are improving, it is evident that these accommodations aren’t always afforded in every workplace.

Sometimes work related decisions create tension in a co-parenting household. On the other hand there are working mothers supported by their male counterparts.

However, for working mothers such as myself, when there is no one to fall back on,

being the sole provider doesn’t leave room for many options. In order to give to both work and home, the structure of the family setting must change. Just as the workforce accommodates a working mother, a working mother’s family also has to lend support. The perceived role of a homemaker by family members though, has begun to change considerably in the Caribbean.

As women become an intricate part of the workforce, they are demonstrating their abilities to be both great mothers, and great employees. Balancing home life and work life will always be difficult, but more and more of our women are proving they are up to the challenge!  Onika has authored two published collections of poetry under the pen name Onika Pascal. Her first published book of poetry entitled, “Collections of a See Through SoulPortraits,” debuted in 2008, and “Collections of a See Through Soul – Bardvillian Symphonies” debuted in 2009. She is a Trinidadian, currently residing in the USA.

eWoman magazine

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Suit: Designer’s Image Boutique – Earrings: Designer’s Image Boutique – Shoes: Primadona – Nassau, Bahamas

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eWoman magazine

Tanya McCartney –

Not a businesswoman, but a woman about business

By Inderia Saunders

E

veryday, like clockwork, she awakes at 5 a.m. As the dawn breaks, she meditates, reflects and catches up on the news before heading across town to her mother’s

for breakfast and to fully prepare for the day ahead.

By now the pattern is set and Tanya McCartney knows all too well that she had better enjoy this down time as it’s most likely going to be a typically hectic day ahead.

Then again, no one ever said it would be easy being the youngest Managing Director of a leading international bank in the country.

First, there are the endless meetings, projects and tasks to get done. Then, there is exercise after work, a current affairs TV show to host, duties at her local church, endless social obligations and now -for three days a week - there are classes for a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership at the College of The Bahamas (COB).

Nassau, Bahamas. It’s a view that - like many other accomplished women in the region - she has worked hard to achieve.

At 40-years-old, the Royal Bank of Canada’s subsidiary, Finance Corporation of the Bahamas (FINCO) executive has quite the resume.– Even though she took over during the worst economic recession ever, she still sees the challenges as a rewarding experience — She is a barrister by profession but entered the financial services sector in 1999, having served as Assistant Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General in The Bahamas.

She serves as President of The Bahamas Institute of Financial Services, is a former lecturer at two local colleges and was a Senator of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas from June 2001 to November 2005. McCartney is also a member of several notable social organizations and remains quite active in her church.

Oh and this is all going on concurrently with the search for Mr. Right.

In 2004, at 33-years-old, she was inducted into COB’s Alumni Hall of Fame. That’s after entering frontline politics in the country, just two years earlier. It’s no wonder she wants to retire by age 50 - 55 at the latest.

“I believe I can have it all and I just keep hope alive,” McCartney laughs, sitting behind her busy desk overlooking a popular business district near the downtown area in

“I want to retire as in stop working for people,”she says. “I don’t think I ever want to stop working. I just don’t see myself stopping and saying I’m not working anymore.”

(Continued on next page)

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37

Pictured Above: Jumpsuit: PLAY. Belt: Primadona. Earrings and Necklace: Designer’s Image Boutique.

It’s a spirit that was engendered in her at a young age, growing up as the only child of a single mother who worked hard to provide for her daughter. Those lessons were important for the determined executive, who now places her relationships with family members as a top priority.

McCartney is not shy talking about being completely at ease in certain urban neighborhoods that would raise eyebrows in the boardrooms she dominates. And looking at her - designer business suit, manicured nails, valuable jewels and meticulously styled hair - one would think she’s quite a stranger to the other side of the tracks. But that’s exactly where she heads off to every morning to visit her mother.

“That’s where all the good people in our society come from – over the hill,”says McCartney, referring to a commonly known urban area in The Bahamas. “People have forgotten where they come from and everyday I go into the hood. The people in the neighborhood, they know me and it keeps me grounded.” Remaining grounded and holding firm to her beliefs is important to McCartney, especially as she builds herself as a force in a field dominated by men.

It’s no secret that many other women in similar situations have been known to 38

eWoman magazine

“Women do have to assert themselves in a very male dominated environment.

But do we have to de-feminize to do that?” shed their femininity, donning a more masculine demeanor in an effort to command respect from their male colleagues. They sometimes alter that part of themselves that makes them want to embellish their womanhood: shunning wearing skirts, feminine hairdos, girly trinkets and removing pictures of loved ones from their desks to be considered equal to their male counterparts. It’s a behavior often adopted by women trying to assimilate into the male-driven corporate world, says McCartney.

“Maybe they do that because of how men react to them,”she elaborates. “ Even though you have lots of women within these organisations, we’re not necessarily leading those organisations. So I feel the biggest challenge is for women to excel in leadership roles.

“Women do have to assert themselves in a very male dominated environment.

But do we have to de-feminize to do

that? I’m not sure, but many women do adopt that approach.” There is still a glass ceiling.

In recent times, RBC has introduced a number of diversity initiatives designed to promote inclusion, something McCartney is big on and commends the organisation for. As she goes about her daily responsibilities, she tries to set a good example for women around her — one that is post gender and encourages women to be themselves in the workplace – letting their light shine, essentially, in its most natural state.” I would like to think that the picture that I paint for other women is that you don’t have to de-feminize yourself and that if you work hard, you should be able to achieve the objectives you set for yourself,” she adds. “For me, I believe what makes the difference is just that; knowledge, expertise and skill. People (Continued on page 40)

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eWoman magazine

39

must see that you are genuine in your interactions with them”.

Ideally, they would want to be here with their families, she adds.

They are the same words of encouragement she often gives to many of the women around her. She shares stories of young teen mothers in her mother’s neighborhood, who, as she heads off to her corporate world, head over to social services for their monthly allowance – nary an opportunity or a glimmer of hope in sight. They are young girls who she believes want to do well but are being influenced by their socio- economic circumstances.

“But they’re not and so we have to create an environment where people are welcomed back home and we see the benefits of making their gifts and talents better. This is essential as we seek to build the capacity of our individual small island states and the Caribbean as a region”

Looking around the region in her travels, McCartney admits it appears to be getting harder and harder for women to overcome their struggles. Thinking about the situation in her air-conditioned office, she draws a correlation between the declines in this progress to the decline in successful women going back to the communities and “giving back” — in whatever form they see fit. In the absence of that driving force to change circumstances for those outside of that circle, she says any real movement in female leadership will be slow to manifest.

Added to that, many young women in the Caribbean region are growing up without that positive female role model in their lives that seemed to be ubiquitous in yesteryears, says McCartney – a likely reason why many young women are having difficulty finding inspiration to elevate out of negative environments.

“Their parents aren’t into education and character building, so there is nobody to push them,” she says. “So more of us need to go back to where we came from and try to help some of our young sisters just coming up.”

For her part, she takes her messages to the churches and other organisations that provide the social outreach to women in need. But she admits she cannot do it alone.

Increasingly, McCartney notes there is another element adding to this lack of contribution to women’s movement in the region: a brain drain of progressive women, exacerbated by stagnant societies.

Based on McCartney’s many accolades, women around the country look up to her as someone who has managed not only to chart her own course; but that has given a leg up to her family and many women in the corporate and political world as well.

The latter is an area of service McCartney is still open to exploring again at a later date, despite a close, but unsuccessful dive into the political arena in 2002.

“I can think of a few classmates of mine and family members who would have gotten specialist skills, came home and tried to make it work because this is where they want to be,” says the executive. “But because there is a generation gap where young people are told to “wait their turn” and there are some people who don’t want to move on or mentor, allowing young people to take on leadership roles, many young people are discouraged. There is a sense of entitlement based on seniority that my generation doesn’t buy into. We believe that competence, talent and skill should determine how far you go. So [my friends and family members] came home and tried it and now they’re in Canada and in the United States and other places and they are doing very well, but they could be making a contribution to their country had the opportunity been afforded to them.”

Pictured Above : Gown& Earrings Designer’s Image Boutique

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But the next time won’t be like the last if ever she decides to become a public servant again. McCartney is now more confident that she would bring more to the table, given her personal and professional experience as well as a more comprehensive insight of what “the Bahamian people” are really concerned about and how they live. Frankly, at this point in her life, she says another stab at politics would be more about changing lives in a meaningful and substantial way than party propaganda.

Yet, another foray into politics would take some considerable thought. And as is the case for many women, McCartney would have to gauge how her family, career and social life would be affected by such a move. A strong support system and safety net are imperative.

It is one of the reasons why she describes the current makeup of women in politics in the entire region as inadequate.

“I don’t think we have sufficient women going into politics,” she adds. “Many women I think are afraid of the mud-slinging and all of the negativity that comes with political life. And if you want to raise a family, it poses a challenge as well. Moreover, few of us are independently wealthy.

(Continued on page 42)

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“But certainly, for the women who would have accomplished professional and personal goals for themselves, I would encourage them to go into politics.”

There are many women who have provided good examples of inspiring female leaders for McCartney, such as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former United Kingdom Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and former Prime Minister of Dominica Eugenia Charles.

Although many women in the Caribbean may feel distant from a certain Alaska politician, surprisingly, McCartney argues that many lessons can be learned from American politician Sarah Palin.

“Although she wasn’t successful in becoming the Vice President of the United States, mud slinging didn’t stop her and she has a lot of influence whether you like her or not. What I learned from her is you don’t give up and you don’t mind the noise in the market. If you believe in something stand with all of your conviction for it” says McCartney.

“Yes there will be negativity, but the reality is there may be sufficient people, a constituency who buys into your vision and thereby give you some level of influence. So whether or not you like what she says, there are some people who look up to her and her opinion counts to them.”

Getting to that point is the issue, confides McCartney.

The challenges women face with other women are some of the greatest ones, she notes, conceding to experiencing disappointment over the lack of support from some females. How does she deal with it?

“When you meet a “hater”, you keep on smiling,” she advises. “If they get to you, the reality is they’re happy as the day is long. But you kill them with kindness, thriving and excelling. In fact when you meet somebody who is tearing you down, be polite and use them as inspiration. Don’t take them on, just keep doing you and looking good.”

Setting goals for oneself is essential to success, says McCartney. As women become more mindful of what they want out of life, the direction starts to take form. With that, she says, comes 42

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“There are many women who have provided good examples of inspiring female leaders for McCartney, such as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former United Kingdom Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and former Prime Minister of Dominica Eugenia Charles.” less dependence on men for financial stability – an important factor in the empowerment of women.

“I encourage women to be empowered because you can’t sit waiting for someone to complete you,”she says. “It shows maturity when you’re able to go out there and achieve things for yourself and hopefully you’ll meet someone just as goal oriented and who can say [you’re] someone [they] want to be with.”

According to McCartney, the fairy tale isn’t for prince charming to come and rescue theWoman anymore.“The modern day fairytale is for you to develop yourself so that you go into any relationship as a whole person and you know exactly who you are and he knows who he is and you two meet and complement each other,” she explains. “You find people going into relationships and then later, as they get older, they feel unfulfilled, saying ‘I didn’t achieve this, I didn’t complete my education,’ then the responsibility of a family life has them locked in.It’s a theory that she takes around with her in her daily life of searching for the right guy to complement her. Like many successful women around the world, McCartney is challenged with finding a partner that is not threatened by her achievements and, instead, looks upon them as assets. From time to time, she has been judged without men even knowing

much about her – assuming that because she is in charge at the business table, she would demand a level of absolute control in her personal relationships as well.

“I’ve been told that I’m an “Alpha” woman,” she recalls with a smile, referring to a past suitor. “I think many men have perceptions about strong, successful women. And I say perceptions because it may not actually be the case.

I think I have traditional values; I believe a man is head of household and as a Christian; I expect he would lead our family.

“Having said that there are some great men out there who appreciate what you bring to the table and they want that because they see it as strength and support for them.”

More frequently, McCartney has noted an increased focus with men on a woman’s income. “When you talk to men and you listen to their perspective, it matters to them,” she says. “They find a way to try and figure out how much you make or they make assumptions about how much you make based on your job. Women do it too, so all is fair in love and war.”

Though many women may have a tendency to downplay the professional aspect of their lives, McCartney says while she is not keen on talking about work while on dates, she is proud of her accomplishments and is not willing to hide her independence.

In fact, it’s a characteristic that she has found has attracted rather than repelled many men in the past, with many of them looking for a partner just as ambitious as they are. Living on a small island makes the eligible dating pool limited, but although she dreams of an exciting life in another country sometimes, McCartney says the “rhythm” of her home country pulls on her heart strings.

So in the meantime, as she looks forward to further career advancement, meeting Mr. Right, completing her MBA (considering pursuing a PhD) and looking at what new adventures life holds in store for her, McCartney is content to curl up with a good book, a glass of“bubbly”, her favorite group of “sister-friends” and a bowl of Bahamian conch salad and savor the sweet fragrance of life itself – in the few moments she has to spare. 

e bazaar

Look what we found.

Go ahead turn the page.

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Make a dramatic statement with this Six layer conch shell and glass beads necklace by Banesian Jewellry www.facebook.com/banesian

Simplicity at its best – Brown lip tiger shell earrings by Banesian Jewellery www.facebook.com/banesian

Travel Caribbean style with this Hand crafted straw suit bag from the Dot Miller Collection. email: dotmillercollections@hotmail.com

This necklace is stunning and a perfect piece for Tropic wear-Tiger Eye and Coconut Shell necklace by Banesian Jewellery www.facebook.com/banesian

A perfect accessory for your red Valentine’s outfit--The shell clutch from the Darcia Christie Shell Shock collection email: darcia1066@gmail.com

e bazaar

Beautiful tropical prints pair well with these amazing handmade straw belts from the Dot Miller Collection email: dotmillercollections@hotmail.com

For work or play, the traditional straw bag has become a work of art. Dress it up or down--from the DarciaChristie Shell Shock collection– email: darcia1066@gmail.com

The sea comes ashore on your bedside table, with this beautiful photo frame from the Darcia Christie Shell Shock collection email: darcia1066@gmail.com

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Discovering A Barbadian in the Southern African country of Zambia takes in the country’s sights, sounds, people and emotions during an election year. Liesl Harewood shares her experience.

Travelling to the continent of Africa has always been a mystical dream of mine.

And while I had the privilege of fulfilling this in 2008 and in 2010, my African adventures continued in September 2011 when I was invited to participate in an Election Observer Mission to Zambia.

Although this would be my third trip back to the continent and my fifth African country visited, there was something a bit more magical about this one.

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O

Of all the African countries I have been to -I felt totally safe in Zambia. The people were accommodating and interested in finding out more about the Caribbean.

Persons I met, within hours, were offering to take me around and not once did I feel uncomfortable or paranoid about the hospitality. It really came from a genuine place and this is the reputation that Zambians have: “Peaceful persons” — reflected in the democratic transition of power without any violence that has unfortunately dotted other recent electoral processes across the continent.

After landing in Zambia, checking into my hotel and having a complimentary drink, I showered and went straight outside to get a “feel”for the country. What struck me most as I inhaled the smells, listened to the sounds and captured the sights was that I felt like I could be in any Caribbean country at that particular moment.

I love the sun on my skin, so to be in a country where I can dress for the tropical climate, immediately relaxes me. The similarity in cars, people and dress styles washed away any uncertainty or nervousness I may have had about being so far away from home, undertaking a new challenge. The one thing that I couldn’t wrap my head around though was the architecture. There was a bit of the British colonial, with an emerging modern touch and it was only upon leaving the city that I saw more traditional villages and homes.

I am attracted to countries with water: oceans, rivers and lakes give me the sense of space, freedom and a tinge of the unknown. Surprisingly, though Zambia is a land-locked country, the sheer vastness of its size still gave me that feeling that this country would take a lifetime to explore.

My travels around Lusaka, Mansa and Livingstone showed me a flat landscape currently experiencing a dry season brown grass and dust was everywhere.

There were tinges of colour with the jacaranda trees blossoming purple to add that element of royalty to the sky.

Preparation for my journey was hectic and exhilarating. Everyone that I spoke to prior to boarding the flight enthused that Zambia was the“real Africa”.

For me, this year had been one of extremes: when it was good it was“very, very (Continued on page 69) eWoman magazine

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s t quiet n e m mo Omonike’s two favourite picks for this issue of eWoman! Lime Tree Can’t Bear Orange and The Same Earth-two masterfully written books that we promise you’ll enjoy.

The Same Earth

Author: Kei Miller

Kei Miller’s The Same Earth is so masterfully written it’s hard to believe that this is his first novel. It is easy to get lost in the world of Imelda Richardson who grows up in the unassuming rural village of Watergate and makes the sojourn to England to “better herself”, only to find herself back where she started, the same earth. From the outset it is evident that Imelda’s headstrong, worldly personality is at variance with the traditions of the people of Watergate who though deeply religious are at the same time staunchly superstitious. Miller effortlessly interweaves the stories of the very colourful and eccentric characters of Watergate taking us on a journey where there are endless laugh out loud moments and absorbing sub-plots including the mystery of the missing panties, the dilemma of finding a replacement for Old Parson, the Problem with Mr. Solomon and The Thing That Miss Millie Saw. I enjoyed this work immensely and would recommend it without hesitation.

Lime Tree Can’t Bear Orange Author: Amanda Smith Rape. Adultery. Murder. Individually, these words do not conjure up pleasant feelings but when set against the backdrop of Trinidad and Tobago in the 1950’s and coupled with the literary prowess of Irish Trinidadian, Amanda Smyth, we have an immensely pleasurable read. Ceila’s life is haunted by the desire to know who her father is and more about her mother. This shadow is darkened by the premonitions of the village seer woman. The effects of the absent father are a predominant yet silent theme throughout the book and at the end we are left questioning whether, had Celia not been so distracted by the pursuit of knowledge about her parentage, if she would have discovered the answer before it was too late. Lime Tree Can’t Bear Orange made Oprah’s 2009 summer reading list, 25 Books You Can’t Put Down, and after reading it, I can definitely understand why!

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The Bold & The Beautiful – Spring 2012

By Terry Donovan Photographs: Froylan Flowers, New York City

A palette of citrus pastels, flamboyant prints and beautiful embellishments epitomized the eclecticism of a fashion circus at Mercedes-Benz New York City Fashion Week for 2012. The vibrant florals, pixilated prints and bright hues created an explosion of exquisite colors in some of the season’s most relaxed silhouettes. The sportswear and evening looks came in a range of knee to floor length in light, feminine styles from vintage to modern.

Michael Kors eWoman magazine

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Shades of White Like angels on earth, designs in white are a fashion staple for your spring and summer wardrobe. Fashion designers created an array of ethereal white tailored blazers, skirts, jumpsuits and dresses.

Diane Von Furstenberg Tracy Reese

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Art Deco – Prints Exotic prints and florals turned up on the runways in a range of dazzling fashion.

Milly By Michelle Smith

Milly By Michelle Smith

Diane Von Furstenberg Carolina Herrera

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Diane Von Furstenberg

Tracy Reese Tracy Reese 52

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A Colourful Jamboree From pastel shades to neon brights, colour is everywhere for the season; in chic sportswear and glamourous evening wear.

The melody of vibrant hues is absolutely gorgeous.

BCBG Max Azria

BCBG Max Azria

Carolina Herrera

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Paint The Town Red Be the center of attraction this Valentine by making a bold statement in fabulous RED. You can opt for solids or festive patterns.

Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera

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Everyone has to learn to think differently, bigger, to open to possibilities.

– Oprah Winfrey

I

magine if the world was composed of very

traditions and creating new paths for their children

ordinary things in extraordinary places. Imagine

to inherit while turning their backs to the naysayers

if each of us were complacent and never

and obstacles in their way.

stretched our boundaries to find our purpose.

It takes a lot of courage to think differently, to believe in the impossible and to become our biggest cheerleaders, yet every day women across the globe are finding ways to push past the limits that societies have placed upon them. They’re developing cultural

eWoman shines the light on eight Caribbean women who’ve capitalized on their talents and strengths to become the women they’re meant to be while blazing the trail for others embarking on unique and interesting careers.

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Nadia Huggins & Holly Bynoe

ARC: Art. Recognition. Culture.

Nadia Huggins

Holly Bynoe

What we do & for how long?

Greatest Challenge?

Nadia Huggins and Holly Bynoe, a photographer and visual artist respectively have been practicing and making art for the last 10 years. In late 2010 they conceived of ARC Magazine a quarterly Caribbean Art and Culture magazine published out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Our greatest challenge lies in the failure of many policy makers and governmental organizations to step up to the plate and place their faith in this type of movement and the power and proper placement of art education in many of the smaller islands. It requires a new rendering of understanding the potential of our virtual spaces and being able to tackle how technology is transforming our Caribbean and thoughts on ownership.

What are we driven by?

Our drive is essentially connected to the fact that we can no longer be held accountable for the proliferation of our separate spaces. For too long our region’s potential has been held in place by our nationalistic gains and focus. If this continues and we are unable to secure a united front through which to quantify our production, critical thinking and sprawling academic and creative engagements, then we will be unable to embody a new language and imagery to bring testament to the nature of Caribbean art and it’s becoming.

What is our inspiration?

In the beginning the idea of creating a platform like ARC was our foremost inspiration. It was about envisioning and creating something that didn’t exist, about constructing the fractions that would encompass it as an entity. And now that we have built the platform, it is the growing momentum and critical feedback from various artists, writers and creative types that keeps us moving ahead and trying to think about its lifespan and future.

Greatest Achievement?

Our great achievements happen on the ground when we are able to connect with artists, thinkers and writers in a pragmatic manner. When we are able to create new bonds of relevance, activism and action. From this we are seeing a spurt of new creative groups that are less mindful of old paradigms.

We are seeing younger people willing to take the risk and giving themselves the permission to be artists and we are empowered by the virtual community that we have created to bring together the parts of our varied whole.

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What makes us successful?

For us success is linked to action and doing. For ARC it is just a matter of keeping active and relevant, but more importantly keeping up with how people are communicating with each other because it is changing constantly. We can’t deny the parallels that exist in and the many similar conversations our various creative spaces are involved in; we need to keep abreast with this phenomenon and pay close attention to its motion and potential.

Any advice for those who want to explore an atypical career?

We no longer think that working in the arts, at its center or along its perimeter an atypical career. It isn’t in developed countries and certainly being an artist in the West (US/Canada) and Europe comes with wider acceptance and practical outlets. That being said we think it is just a matter of time before it takes the same position in the Caribbean. Atypical changes daily, however following your dreams and really taking into consideration your passion and calling requires varied degrees of bravery, faith and motivation.

That being said there are going to be roadblocks, gatekeepers and traditions that will be inherently difficult to maneuver; this is where tact, tenacity and patience come in.

Lisa Adamson A woman on a mission.

By Kaletha Henry

In a modern complex overlooking one of Tortola’s quaint marinas, fitness guru Lisa Adamson prepares for her next class.

Within moments she’ll instruct a slew of mothers, housewives, business executives and the elderly to kick, stretch and bend their bodies inside her two-level property called Sensus: gym to 1200 members, non-members and followers alike.

The sprawling facility is replete with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, washrooms, fitness instructors, and one of the most expansive spaces on island. Dance enthusiasts flock to its mirrored walls and sturdy, gymnasium-sized hardwood flooring, which supports the pounding movements of ballet, flamenco and salsa.

Sensus is Lisa’s dream-come-true. It’s a place where fitness fanatics and beginners can learn Pilates, spinning, Zumba and body toning in the comforts of their own skin.

While she doesn’t pat herself much on the back, the smile on her face shows how pleased she is by the camaraderie that’s formed.“When I can stand in the gym and watch students and instructors mingle and laugh, that makes me feel successful,” Lisa said.

Lisa envisioned Sensus long before a location was sourced.

But, amid the congestion and island development she wasn’t sure it was possible; then fate intervened: The bike lover suffered a major cycling accident and in that down time, a spot was revealed.

To examine Lisa’s athletic physique, it’s hard to imagine how this spunky fitness professional weighed close to 200 pounds while living and working in Bermuda as a floral designer. But, when you watch the 43-year-old, British native you understand how she’s managed to drop and stave off a whopping 60 pounds.

It begins with Lisa’s tenacity and passion for life, which has taken her from Europe to two small islands in the Caribbean where she’s been able to make a name for herself in nontraditional career paths.

Locally, she’s a powerhouse on the health circuit teaching and inspiring women and men to exercise and live a more fruitful life because she knows firsthand how unhealthy habits can affect you.

“One must take care of their heart. It is called a heart for a reason. If you keep it healthy everything else fixes itself,”she said.

Though Lisa has an inner determination, she’s very inspired by the mature women, aged 50-60, who are still committed to exercising. “They look amazing,” she expressed. “And if they can find the time to come, it makes me want to give that much back,”she said.

After one workout with Lisa, you’ll likely feel inspired to return and join her flock!

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Indira Francis

Dancing to her own drumbeat.

By Inderia Saunders

Superman and Spiderman are not the only ones who get to lead double lives: In The Bahamas, there is Indira Francis, justice seeker by day and salsa queen instructor by night.

As founder of the Bahamas Salsa Social Network, Francis’ work with the country’s youth over the past two years in the art of ballroom dancing has attracted adults, sparked a salsa movement and brought international attention to the growing program.

“I started it mainly because there is nothing to do in Nassau.

I thought kids and adults would like it and they need somewhere to socialize,” said the attorney by profession. “We touch a lot of lives and we teach people a lot of things . . . [like] discipline.”

It’s a characteristic she is hoping some of the young boys she instructs will apply regularly.

“Boys here in The Bahamas see this type of dancing as for girls, but now they’re realizing that to dance with a girl is a pretty neat thing,” said Francis. “It teaches them how to get along and how to treat women and generally how to behave, so if they’re told ‘no’, no is no.

“It’s my contribution to society. Hopefully, it will reduce the crime rate and draw a lot of young people to having good, decent, wholesome fun and generally as a community build people in different ways.”

While her biggest challenge to date has been convincing the wider public that ballroom dancing can be influential in one’s daily life, Francis is inspired by the growth of her program and believes her success is due to an ability to encourage people to let their hair down and have fun.

“As a registrar, I’m very busy everyday dealing with real life issues,”said the married, mother of three. “This is a way that I can absolutely escape from that life into living, laughing and having fun.”

“The salsa queen in me inspires the lawyer because now I’ve found that the lawyer is actually a human being to the world. I would encourage everybody to be what God made them to be and find out who they are.”

For instructions, Francis can be found teaching free salsa lessons every Thursday at the Sharkeez restaurant, downtown Nassau. She also offers private lessons. For more information, visit http://bahamassalsa.com/About_Us.html.

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Leslie Vanderpool Reel Life

By Inderia Saunders Who would have thought a simple move back to The Bahamas from New York could be the genesis of one of the most highly anticipated events in the country and a growing interest in the global film community?

Leslie Vanderpool did.

And because of her vision, the Bahamas International Film Festival is still pushing on eight years later.

“Our mission is to really provide opportunities for people around the world who don’t have them to show films you would never see theatrically here in The Bahamas,”says Vanderpool, an actress by profession. “The film festival is truly a platform for people who are interested in the career of film making, so we facilitate, we assist with networking, we showcase, we educate and we place the Bahamas on the map.”

With $20 million of PR value spent on the festival to date, BIFF has honored the likes of Johnny Depp, Nicholas Cage, Laurence Fishburne and Darryl Hannah, with the list continuing on.

But even star-studded events like the festival have their challenges. Like many other non-profit organizations during a slow economy, BIFF has had a hard time maintaining financial sponsorship. A clear example has been a recent slash in the government’s budget contributions to the festival, which (mixed with other factors) has forced new creative, nontraditional ways of fundraising at BIFF. Vanderpool says the difficulties are something youngsters trying to enter the field should expect to encounter along the road.

“You have to be passionate about it and you have to see long term rather than short term,” she explains. “A lot of tenacity is needed, a lot of leg work, and building reputations. But it’s good to build a resume here (in The Bahamas) and have something to build upon when you go abroad.

“With the film festival we’ve created a standard with competing with the global film world and I think we’re providing that facility so people can aspire to that quality and professionalism.”

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Unstoppable Meiling

By Cherisse Moe

A trend-setter in every sense of the word, Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion designer Meiling Esau is definitely cut from a different cloth.

Her passion for fashion and signature out-of-the-box designs have made her one of best and most recognized designers in the Caribbean.

Her professional foray into the fashion industry began in the 1960’s in London, but it was in her mother’s sewing shop that she first learned the tricks of the trade.

“My mother was one of the top seamstresses in Trinidad.

Ever since I was a little girl playing with my dolls and making clothes in her workroom, I always knew I wanted to be a designer,” she tells eWoman.

With an eye for detail and a natural knack for fashion, Meiling had little trouble becoming a household name.

She remembers her humble beginnings, opening her first boutique called “12 PM” in a garage with the support of her sister Phyliss Vieira, and facing the challenges of a start-up business.

The designer says her greatest challenge remains taking Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion industry forward as a cohesive force on a competitive and often unforgiving global stage.

“If we are to succeed, our vision must have long-term goals and the phases of implementing them must be carefully planned, she explains. “We have to be realistic about our resources whether it be design talent, labour, technology or the logistics of our geographical area.”

Meiling shared her recipe for success. “To young people I always say in this industry you need one third talent, one third education and one third drive to succeed. The last one is perhaps the most important since if you do not work hard and lay a good foundation for your business, it will not survive all the hard times you will encounter.”

A recipient of the 2008 Chaconia Silver Medal National Award for her contribution to Trinidad and Tobago’s business sector Meiling shows no signs of slowing down after 35 years.

This year alone, she has shown three full collections – Macafouchette Carnival, Last Train to San Fernando, and Kites, which received rave reviews from critics and fashion enthusiasts who hailed the collections as her best work yet.

In June, Meiling’s designs lit up the runways during Jamaica’s Caribbean Fashion Week 2011 and Trinidad’s San Fernando Fashion Week 2011. Her most recent accomplishment is MEILING COMPLETE, a line of lifestyle products, which includes diffusers and candles.

So, what’s next for this Trini-born, global designer? One can only guess something amazing!

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Nadine Hamilton Breaking Barriers

By John Meyers, Jr

There is a saying that behind every dark cloud there is a silver lining and this has proven true for Nadine Hamilton who started her multi-million dollar scrap metal export company at one of the lowest points in her life.

The effervescent Managing Director of Hamilton Demolition and Scrap Traders explains that the whole process began in the middle of drowning her sorrows at the bar of a popular Kingston hotel. After a brief tete-a-tete, she learned that the person was an exporter of scrap, who later offered her commission to source scrap metal.

Miss Hamilton says she quickly took the offer and soon began “pounding the pavement” in search of scrap metal to earn a living, and eventually took over the business.

Nadine Hamilton has come a long way, from being unemployed and eating only crackers to becoming a major player in Jamaica’s highly competitive scrap metal industry where only the fittest of the fit operate. It is an industry where very few women venture, but she was brave enough and has played the game well, now overseeing 20-30 men on the job.

In staying true to her personality, Miss Hamilton is also an innovator and creative force, having built the first recreation vehicle in Jamaica from an old shipment container. Using the manpower of her work team, she conceptualized and transformed a 40-foot shipment container into a small, but comfortable living space on wheels and outfitted it with a fully equipped kitchen, sleeping areas, a sitting room, bathroom, flat screen televisions and wireless Internet. It has its own water tank to sustain an entire week, a generator and waste disposal facility, and is attached to a tractor-trailer for easy transport around the island.

“Don’t ask me how I built this (Recreational Vehicle), but I did and I did not borrow any money,” the bright-eyed maverick boasts. Again, the process was not easy but nearly US$220,000 later Miss Hamilton is the proud owner of the first RV built on the island. It is now rented for tours of the island, as well as, for portable accommodation at large concerts and festivals.

“Now that the Jamaica Tourist Board is coming on board with me, I want to expand the business,”she reveals, adding that she intends to build more RVs which she has patented in Jamaica.

As a source of inspiration and a trailblazer for other Caribbean women, Miss Hamilton’s advice to others is that:“Just tell yourself you can do it.You have to have that faith though and the self confidence, make up your mind and be ready (to accept) that it is not going to come easily.”

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Kristin Frazer Designed to swim

By Kaletha Henry

Kristin Frazer has her eyes set on the big league. She’s already been featured in two of NYC’s premiere fashion events, and within the last three years she’s watched top models strut the Caribbean runways in her sophisticated swimwear.

In 2008, at the age of 24, the British Virgin Islander launched Trèfle, a clothing line she describes as being timeless designs that are demonstrated through rich products of colors and textures. She’s quick to say Piqué, twill, denim, and any type of silk are her favorites.“I love the process behind it, of the silkworm,”she said.

The name Trèfle is French for Clover’s, which pays homage to her grandparents Alban and Ruth Clover who opened a niche store of the same name on Tortola 40 years ago to specialize in fabric, shoes and home accessories.

Kristin has always toyed with fabrics. As a child she used to cut anything she could get her hands on and drape herself; in her teens she made everything she wore, including her school uniforms.

Although she learned to sew at the age of seven, her journey into designing swimwear and resort wear began in college during a wrestle with Lycra.

The assignment: To make a bathing suit.“It took me six to eight weeks to make my first bikini,” she said.“Lycra is a man-made fabric. It can be very complicated to manipulate.”

Though challenging, the experience made her realize that creating stylish apparel for the sea or pool was a natural fit.

“Growing up in the Caribbean convinced me that everyone needs a swimsuit,”she said.

In her senior year at the International Academy of Design and Technology she became the first Black woman to intern for legendary designer Carolina Herrerra. Working in NewYork City at the helm of one of the industry’s most renowned labels gave Kristin a new level of experience and exposure.

Months after receiving her degree in fashion design and marketing, she ventured to England on a study abroad program to learn trend forecasting and fashion journalism. Having never stepped foot on European soil, she trusted her instincts, went out on a limb and thrived in her new environment.

“I’m a risk taker,” she said. “As long as you’re an artist or label yourself an artist; or designer, you must take risks.”

The 27-year-old entrepreneur is heeding her own advice, developing Trèfle’s 2012 collection, building her brand in the BVI and abroad, and sharing her skills with BVI youth.

Kristin’s ultimate goal is to see her label in department stores worldwide, on the elite fashion runways of Paris and Milan and on mannequins in the posh windows of Bergdorf Goodman. A glimpse into her latest line, Exxotica, shows a designer who’s edgy and contemporary and well on her way to making a bigger name for herself with these wearable pieces of art!

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joy

Coconut Toast with Sapodilla Yogurt

Turn up the HEAT in your LOVE life with the following recipes by Chef Jamall Petty, Banquet Chef at one of Sandals Caribbean Resorts.

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Ingredients • Coconut Batter • 2tsp cinnamon • 1tsp vanilla extract • ¼ tsp finely ground nutmeg • 1tbsp toasted coconut • 1tsp Brown Sugar • ½ cup coconut milk

• 6 eggs large • 4tbsp, butter • 8 Slices Texas toast • Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting sapodilla Yogurt • 1 Ripe sapodilla (medium) • Yogurt (plain or vanilla)

Coconut Syrup

3oz grated toasted Coconut 7 cloves 1 cinnamon stick 2 star anise 8oz maple syrup

For Coconut Batter

In large Bowl, combine all ingredients for the batter and mix well.

Refrigerate until batter is needed.

For sapodilla yogurt

In food processor blend sapodilla until smooth. Place in a medium bowl and fold in yogurt.

For Coconut Syrup

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Allow to steep 20 minutes or longer to develop flavors. Strain syrup and set aside.

In a large sauté pan, melt the butter until foamy. Dip the Texas toast into coconut batter and coat both sides thoroughly. Fry the toast for 2 – 3 minutes on each side or until it is golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan.

Arrange on plates as desired and dust with confectioner’s sugar.

Conch Parmesan Ingredients • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus 4 tablespoons vegetable oil • 1 medium onion, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 2 bay leaves • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted • 1/2 bunch fresh basil leaves • 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes, drained and hand-crushed

• Pinch sugar • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 4 Cleaned Conchs (about 1 pound) • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten • 1 tablespoon water • 1 cup dried bread crumbs • Sliced mozzarella, • Freshly grated Parmesan • 1 pound spaghetti pasta, cooked al dente

Coat a sauté pan with olive oil and place over medium heat. When the oil heats up, add the onions, garlic, and bay leaves; cook and stir for 5 minutes until soft. Add some hand-torn basil and the olives. Carefully add the tomatoes, cook and stir until the liquid is reduced and the sauce is thick, this may take about 15 - 20 minutes; season with sugar, salt and pepper.

Lower the heat, cover, and set aside. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Gather all ingredients together for the conch so you can create a little assembly line. Put the conch side by side on a cutting board and lay a piece of plastic wrap over them. Pound the conch with a spiked meat mallet, until they are flat and tenderized.

Put the flour in a shallow pan and season with salt and pepper; mix with a whisk or fork to distribute evenly. In a wide bowl, combine the eggs and water, beat for a few seconds. Put the bread crumbs on a plate, season with salt and pepper.

Heat 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high flame in a large oven-proof skillet. Lightly dredge both sides of the conch in the seasoned flour, and then dip them in the egg wash to coat completely, letting the excess drain off, then dredge in the bread crumbs. When the oil is nice and hot, add the conch and fry for 3 minutes on each side until golden and crusty, turning once.

Ladle the tomato-olive sauce over the conch and sprinkle with Parmesan and basil, cover with sliced mozzarella, bake the Conch Parmesan for 15 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbly. Serve hot with spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in pink vodka sauce.

Chocolate covered strawberries Ingredients

3 ounces semisweet or white chocolate, chopped 1 pound strawberries with stems (about 10), washed and dried very well Place the chocolate in a heatproof medium bowl. Fill a medium saucepan with a few inches of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Turn off the heat; set the bowl of chocolate over the water to melt. Gently stir until smooth.

Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, remove from the heat. Line a sheet or baking pan with waxed paper.

Holding the strawberry by the stem, dip the fruit into the dark chocolate, lift and twist slightly, letting any excess chocolate fall back into the bowl. Set strawberries on the wax paper. Repeat with the rest of the strawberries.

Set the strawberries aside until the chocolate sets, about 30 minutes.

Tip: you can also melt the chocolate in a microwave at half power, for 1 minute, stir and then heat for another minute or until melted.

For more information on Sandals Resorts please visit www.sandals.com

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For my daughters

Two Shades of Dedicated to My Twin Daughters

By Monique Hinsey

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ove all packaged together not altogether in one but two precious priceless little angels. In one the love is indicative because of her eagerness to always want to show me her way of affection, whether it’s through her innocent smiles or the glitter of her light brown eyes when I walk into the room; Her consistent pulls and tugs and desire to always embrace a hug and a cuddle when and where possible.

Love

In the other her forcefulness and visible determination gives me a glimpse of a little ‘me’ as she blows her kisses on the sly and sneaking in a hug when she thinks no one is watching.

Her stern yet lovable demeanor which seem selective to all those she comes into contact with distinguishes her love.

In one I see wittiness yet in the other I see determination. One is reserved while the other is overly enthusiastic.

The charisma of one draws you to her yet the intrusiveness of the other compels you to want to get acquainted.

One calls you with her smiles and the other calls you with her eyes.

One can’t get enough of you and the other isn’t too shy to let you know when she has had enough of you.

One loves to dance the other loves to sing. When one is asleep the other is awake. One loves strawberries, the other loves pineapples. One dazzles at the sight of green yet the other lights up at blue.

Love packaged into diverse shapes, forms, colours, shades and attributes.

Two shades of love I call it; two distinctly different children yet very much the same. In both I see courage, strength, giftedness, inner -beauty, love and purpose; Two shades of love but all wrapped into one. eWoman magazine

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Mind Shift

Continued from page 33

What is yoga?

Yoga can be described briefly as a scientific system of physical and mental practices that originated in India several thousand years ago. Though the discipline is popular in developed societies, it is not widely practised in the Caribbean.

She advises that yoga “helps them to balance their lives. It helps them to understand that situations don’t create limitations”. She points out, however, that “yoga doesn’t eliminate the situation, it allows you to be within existence of it without being overtaken by it. It allows you to balance and eradicate stress. It allows you to remain young and feel great and fit”.

Since her introduction to Yoga, Subhadra has given up on many of her other pursuits and has become a dedicated full time Yoga trainer and practitioner through her Yoga Angels outfit that she started in the United States in 1997. She has established a subsidiary in Jamaica, now a year old, and has plans to spread it across the Caribbean.

Through Yoga Angels, Subhadra is empowering women to take charge of their health, wellness and beauty by offering mastery level training, as well as, practice sessions locally. Upon successful completion of the rigorous program, certified Yoga trainers in turn impart the practice to others who are interested. Subhadra says the format is deliberate because more people would have the opportunity to be exposed to the discipline when there are more qualified people offering practice sessions.

As she explains, the main aim of Yoga Angels is to eliminate the high cost of accessing world class training, which involves the cost of flying abroad and staying in a hotel, plus the usual fees for a training program. Another aim is to reduce the cost, increase access to yoga practice and breakdown the class barrier.

Yoga Angels is accessible to anyone with a desire to learn and practise yoga to derive the exceptional benefits. Classes are 68

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offered from the prenatal and postnatal level to as old as 75 years, which is the current age of the oldest client. “There is specific therapeutic means of distributing Yoga and bringing it across to different people,” she explains.

And, there is a yoga-for-children component, which Subhadra argues, can aid in improving their behaviour and cognitive development.

“When you look at the components that Yoga offers, just by the mere fact that the children will be able to know that they can go inside themselves and get the answers that they need and to be able to manage their time properly and to lessen their stress, it develops their cognitive skills,”she tells eWoman.“It provides cognitive behavioural assistance because when a kid is in class and they can’t focus, there are breathing techniques that can quickly drop them back in,”the yoga trainer explains.

“I have used yoga on kids with every kind of condition, from cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, obesity…,” Subhadra says, arguing that she would be a totally different human being had she been exposed to yoga as a child.

Subhadra has described the venture into the world of yoga as “fantabulous”. Every aspect of her life now involves an element of yoga. She says the journey has been both rewarding and challenging, pointing out that the most profound of the latter experience was to get people of colour to practise the discipline.

“I love yoga so much that the challenges were always opportunities to me and some of them would be how to get black people to do it. How do I get the race that I know to understand that it is ok to come in this room. That was even more difficult than to get males in the room,” But slowly, the attitudes toward yoga are changing, she says.

So despite the challenges, she maintains that “it is beyond anything that my imagination could put together.” 

ZAMBIA Continued from page 47

good” and when it was “bad - it was horrid”. I had packed my bags at the beginning of the year to leave my idyllic Caribbean island to spread my wings in a “developed country” and gain invaluable work experience and expand my consultancy network. Plans unhinged rapidly and by February my personal life had imploded, finally exploding in July, leaving me to introspect, regroup and really dig deep into the ground to build a foundation that could withstand any challenge.

I cannot say with unequivocal certainty, but I believe that if I had not completed this Life Coaching Program (http://happyblackwoman.com/category/31-days-toreset-your-life/) in August of 2011, I may have never made it to Zambia as an Election Observer. A reflection of my journal entries reveals that I had written my deepest desires down for the Universe to see and within one month it was as if my personal genie was granting my wishes.

What also struck me about Zambia was that before I arrived my first thought was “A country where I don’t know anyone.”

How quickly that changed.

A few days before I left, I got a timely email reminder that a “mentee” of mine from the Greight Foundation lived in Zambia so I was going to be able to meet her too. Then, there was also a colleague, whom I met at a human rights and democracy training in London earlier in the year, told me to ‘link”him when I got in.

I think the most unexpected surprise though was bumping into a friend at the hotel in Lusaka whom I had not seen since 1998 when she graduated from my high school in the Caribbean. We marveled that for such a small island, Barbadians are scattered across the globe and always seem to be drawn to each other. Clearly Zambia was more home than I thought and it reiterated the sad notion that I was indeed“Stolen from Africa.”

The soundtrack for my two weeks in Zambia would definitely be the campaign song “Don’t Kubeba! Shhhh!” which cheekily addresses the alleged bribery and corruption that is associated with elections. This song, used by the opposition encouraged its supporters to “accept the bribes, but don’t tell them how you

will vote”. I was fortunate to spend one week in the capital city of Lusaka, and then be deployed to Mansa in the Western Province, close to the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo! This change of scenery allowed me to see a bit more of the country, experience the food – which was delicious all across the board.

The fish I had in Mansa was so gigantic that many times I was eating the same fish for over two days because I just couldn’t finish it in one meal.

On my last day in the country, I went to the historic Victoria Falls waterfall and spent the day treating myself to doing anything I wanted to do – one of the perks of traveling solo and not being accountable to anyone else! There I embraced the natural beauty and made new friends, spending a few hours hiking with a British cyclist who was making his way across the continent to raise funds for a charity back in England.

My experience in this beautiful country was one which I will cherish for the rest of my life. It was my first election observer mission, so that alone was special. The process called for the practical application of the theory I had gained throughout the years from workshops and training on the related issues. Meeting persons who were so passionate and intimately involved with the process also provided me with a renewed respect for the electoral process being more than just marking “X” on the ballot paper. I appreciate all those who struggled for voters rights for women, so it was disheartening to see so few women parliamentary representatives in a country where over 50 percent of the population are women. A low voter turnout was also some cause for concern. These are issues that various non-governmental agencies are trying to address by conducting voter education training specifically for women and youth and I do hope that there will be some positive strides made by the next elections in 2016.

My take away from Zambia was that in “the real Africa”, passion mixed with dreams can produce the most vibrant reality.

These experiences have undoubtedly molded me into the fearless Caribbean woman that I am today and I continue to be amazed at how deep my love is for every country I have visited so far on the continent of Africa.  eWoman magazine

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Eating Drinking

life

AND

for charity

Todd Vansickle interviews Regina Martinelli of Martinella Winery Inc for e-life.

It is a five-day marathon of good food and great wine.

And it is all for charity.

In November, the BVI Winemakers Dinners held five events at villas and restaurants throughout the British Virgin Islands. Venues included

Regina Martinelli

Brisani’s at the Reef; Giorgio’s Wine Restaurant on Virgin Gorda; Allamanda Estate on Beef Island, Marika Breeze Villa on Tortola; and Oceans Seven Beach Club on Peter Island. The Winemakers Dinners raise money for the BVI Charitable Fund, which has donated more than $100,000 to various charities in the BVI, according to organisers.

At each dinner, wines were paired with five-course dinners prepared by accomplished celebrity chefs like Jennifer Behm, winner of Master Chef — a realty television show, Stephen Stryjewski, Mathayom Vacharat, Julio Lazzarini and Roberto Treviño.

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T

Photographs on this page courtesy of Todd Vansickle

he winemakers were Michael De Loach of Hook and Ladder Winery in California; Gonzalo Lainez of Bodegas Roda in Spain; Philippe Marchal of Maison Louis Jadot in France; Jim Bernau of Willamette Valley Vineyards in Oregon; and the only female Regina Martinelli of Martinelli Winery in California.

Ms. Martinelli shared her thoughts about the business and this year’s event with eWoman.

TV: What are your thoughts and impressions about the BVI Winemakers Dinners? Is this your first time coming to the territory?

RM: This was my first time visiting the British Virgin Islands. I really enjoyed the people I met, the beautiful views and the amazing chefs at the dinners. I enjoy doing these types of events for the obvious reasons, yet mainly because it’s for a worthy cause. Drinking wine, eating great food and mingling with lovely people is a great way to raise money for children. Being in the Caribbean is a plus, taking a ferry with all the wine, dishes, glasses and guests made it even more charming, not to mention the occasional ride where you are drenched in ocean spray, reminding you this isn’t your ordinary wine dinner.

TV: As a woman, talk about any challenges in the winemaking business that you face.

RM: The wine industry is a male dominated industry. There are more and more women entering it from either the sommelier side or winemaking side. Yet, for the most part, it’s all men. In any industry where there is more of one gender than another, it can be hard to get into the smaller circles. Also credibility is a challenge — and that’s not gender based. It’s more about the quality of wine you represent, how long you’ve been in the industry, your passion, reputation and willingness.

Men typically are the farmers, vintners and winemakers, so as a woman who grew up tying vines as a child, my credibility still gets questioned, even in a charming way, about how much I really know or understand about wine and/or vines. I will say I am younger than most, yet because my family has been growing grapes and making eWoman magazine

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Photographs on this page courtesy of Todd Vansickle

wines for 130 years – it’s not an issue.

There are more and more younger generations coming into the business and they bring more modern improvements. Being the youngest child, female, and newest to the family business, it has been an uphill battle trying to bring modernization to the winery. I brought online procurement to our business, when they were still receiving wine orders via fax and postal mail.

Creating a Face book page and keeping it current has been a challenge because the older generation doesn’t understand how it works or why it’s important.

TV: Tell me your role in the winemaking business?

RM: I am the general manager of our small, family-owned winery [in California]. I do the sales and marketing, including travel. I create and implement market strategies to increase our direct and wholesale business. I find new channels for our brand both domestic and overseas. I taste the blends of each wine with our winemaking staff to determine what the final blend of a specific vineyard or label will be.

TV: What aspects of the business do you enjoy the most?

RM: I am happy to be out of the vineyards and in the social aspect of the business. I feel that is more of a personality trait than a female thing. Both my brothers farm more than 400 acres of vineyards with my dad, while my sister and I go on the road to shake hands and kiss babies. I’ve always been more social, so it’s a good fit for me to be the one in the public eye. I love tasting 72

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the wine to decide on final blends for a vineyard and watching the wine evolve from blending to bottle. I love talking about my family and the heritage we have — it makes me happy to see my family daily, even with the challenges.

TV: Are women winemakers unique to the craft?

RM: I’ve read that women have twice as many taste buds than men because they were the gatherers in the day and needed to tell if something was poisonous or unripe before they fed it to their family or village. There are about three to five women winemakers that have earned respect in our area, whose names I hear regularly. There are tons more men.

I have met several women who are building their reputations and wineries with strong credibility. It’s exciting. It’s not an easy job; you work out your pallet and your body daily with being a winemaker.

Our industry would benefit from more diversity in the winemaker demographics.

TV: What are your future plans as far as the wine business goes?

RM: In this economy it’s important to be in the markets, showing your face to your customers and ambassadors. There is a lot of competition with so many wineries just in Sonoma County alone. I see my travelling being a continued practice.

Over the last 15 years there have been more and more wineries in the area, so it’s harder to stay on the consumers’ mind. There have also been great improvements in ways to publicize and

create interesting media. Yet you still need to get the wine in their glasses and to their lips to give them a taste of who you are. So this is a big challenge and what I see myself tackling in the future for our winery.

TV: How many events like the winemakers dinners do you participate in throughout the year?

RM: I do about 20 winemaker dinner’s a year in the United States. I do several charity auction events and tastings as well. I travel about 65 percent to 75 percent of the year.

TV: Do you plan to come back to the BVI for next year’s Winemakers Dinners?

RM: I would love to come back. I would come back if I was invited, I don’t like to assume. I am curious to see if the same people come to the dinners every year.

I met several people who were disappointed that they did not know about it, because they would have loved to attend. 

Celebrating Blue Food

Caribbean Style It’s hailed as the unofficial dish of T&T, it can satisfy just about any palate and once you eat it, chances are you’ll fall instantaneously in love.

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hat’s this magic dish? Well, it goes by the name blue food and it can be found in kitchens throughout the Caribbean. First things first, blue food, also known as ground provisions, isn’t exactly blue. In fact, it comes in all shapes and sizes, each having its own distinct taste and the ability to satisfy just about any palate.

Cassava, yams, dasheen, eddoes, breadfruit and sweet potatoes are some of the tastiest ‘blue food’ known to man. A seasoned culinary expert will tell you that preparation is key to savouring all that blue food has to offer. The older folks, especially those from the countryside, will also tell you that in their day, ground provision was king and when Saturday rolled around, blue food reigned supreme. Dishes such as sancoche, a thick soup made mainly with ground provisions, breadfruit oil down, provisions and salt fish or smoked herring, packed with layers of flavour, ruled the pot. So famous are these indigenous foods that they were given a space in the Tobago Calendar of Events in the form of the Blue Food Festival, which kicks off in October every year.

Sancoche soup, a thick Caribbean ground provision soup, popular in Trinidad and Tobago.

The national affair is one to behold and gives food-lovers a chance to witness just how many different ways these versatile root crops can be prepared by skilful chefs who compete for bragging rights and the coveted Blue Food crown.Still don’t get what all the fuss is about? Well, the next time you visit T&T or any Caribbean island, don’t forget to sample some blue food and judge for yourself.But be warned, so great is the power of blue food, once you go blue, it’s hard to go back! 

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Twelve months with cancer – eWoman’s year-round focus on cancer in the caribbean region

The (literal) toll of cancer Cancer not only takes a toll on a person’s health and lifestyle, but treatment is well known to decimate finances as well. eWoman’s Inderia Saunders explores the safety of less costly medications available to patients in this issue.

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nemployed and uninsured, recently diagnosed breast cancer patient Keya Young sighs deeply when she thinks about the amount of money she has shelled out on medication alone this year.

particularly challenged with meeting the costs of care. They live in a region where salaries are not as high as their U.S. counterparts on average, and women in particular in the region find themselves in an especially tight financial bind when illnesses arise.

Those bills mount like an uphill battle for this 33-year-old mother of three.

Exacerbating the situation has been the rapid growth in the number of cancer cases reported in women in the Caribbean, with diagnoses touching the lives of younger and younger women. The situation has sparked several international studies on the alarming trend of Caribbean women who appear to be at a higher risk of inheriting breast cancer.

“Everything I get has to go towards my payment for treatment,” she says, her voice weak from this week’s radiation. “It all has to go towards my treatment and I don’t see anything from my money I get each month.”

Though quite frail, Young is now actively searching for a job because life goes on.

While the economic impact of cancer is an issue for people all over the world, Caribbean women such as Young are

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Unfortunately, those efforts have not been extended to financial aid for these women. While a price tag cannot be attached to a loved one’s health, it is no

secret that the barriers to quality care can sometimes be one of the hardest to overcome.

According to cancer specialist Dr. Robert A. Wascher of the Cancer Treatment Centres of America, the financial costs of cancer for a person receiving the most recent treatment can amount well into the tens of thousands of dollars.

“Brand new drugs can cost anywhere around $125,000 a year for a patient,”said the M.D. and the author of ‘A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race.’

“We are learning more and more about the biology of breast cancer and as we’ve come to understand it better, we’ve begun to individualize treatment.

“But here’s the downside to all this exciting and innovative progress that I’ve

discussed, these drugs are enormously expensive. No one is selling that brand new drug at a huge discount. So, if a lot of people can’t afford it in a first world country, a lot of these new drugs won’t be available for a long time in a developing country.”

gotten to that level yet, because there are other reasonable drugs that can be given and doctors at medical centers have become very collaborative,”he said.

Most of the time the pharmaceutical companies that own the patent for these drugs, hold those rights for decades.

However, companies are allowed to produce drugs that are no longer on patent.

“You have to do what you have to do,” she says,“ to pay for the real thing.”

As a consequence, many of the brandname, newer drugs that specifically target the cancer —essentially eliminating many of the side effects normally associated with cancer treatment such as hair loss, headaches, fatigue etc . . . — are not accessible to those without deep pockets.

It means many patients are without any option but to get the older, generic drugs, which are sometimes 90 percent cheaper than the well-known“Cadillac brands.”

The issue with this is that those brandname drugs are said to be able to extend life up to a few months or years in certain circumstances. Many Caribbean women are then left to doubt the efficaciousness of the generic drugs.

“When you don’t have the money it’s rougher,”says Young. “Then, they give you the generic medicine and [the cancer] is more susceptible to come back.”

However, Dr. Wascher claims that companies that produce the generic brands of a specific drug are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to submit proof that they’re equally potent, equally safe, and equally therapeutic.

“If they are produced in the U.S. or any other modern country then by definition they should be the equivalent,” he says, speaking to EWoman from his office in Arizona. “But the ironic situation is when the price of drugs gets so low because they become generic, it can be difficult finding drug companies that are willing to manufacture that in this country anymore.”

It’s good news for Young, who has already prepared herself to come up with the necessary finances – though nary a source in sight.

Here are some tips from the American Cancer Society: Planning for treatment You want to know as much as you can before you start cancer treatment, so that you’ll know what to expect. This can help you plan for and deal with the costs more realistically. For many people with cancer, there are medical expenses from things such as:

Doctor visits – Clinic visits for treatments Procedures (for diagnosis or treatment, which can include room charges, equipment, doctors, pathologists, and more)

Lab tests (blood tests, urine tests, and more) Imaging tests (such as x-rays, CT scans, MRIs, which may include radiologist fees, equipment, or medicines

Radiation treatments (implants, external radiation, or both

Drug costs (inpatient, outpatient, prescription, non-prescription, and procedure-related)

Hospital stays (which can include many types of costs such as drugs, tests, and procedures as well as nursing care, doctor visits, and consults

Surgery (anesthesiologist, operating room fees, equipment, surgeon, pathologist, and more) Home care (can include equipment, drugs, specially trained nurses, and more

Even so, at this point he doesn’t feel that a person’s finances determine their survival rate. “Fortunately, we haven’t

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Remy Martin launches its Louis the XIII brand at Scrub Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands

Photo: Todd Vansickle

Todd Vansickle

Phoo: Todd Vansickle

Photo: Todd Vansickle

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Photo: Todd Vansickle

Photo: Todd Vansickle

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eWoman | New York eWoman Magazine hit the streets of New York City. Here are photos from two fabulous events; The Carol’s Daughter Ginger+Liz holiday party Uptown and The Art of Beauty Experience Exhibit downtown.

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1. Ginger+Liz nail laquer 2. B ajan R&B singer Shontelle at The Art of Beauty Experience Exhibit 3. M onica Watkins, Founder of Art in Motion with Emmanuel Fremin Gallery owner Mary Nguyen 4. R achel Lloyd, Exec. Dir. of GEMS | The Art of Beauty Experience

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5. M artine Longchamp, Exec. Dir. of Diakonos Orphanage in Haiti | The Art of Beauty Experience Exhibit 6. G abrielle Joffie at the Ginger+Liz Holiday Party 7. G inger+Liz creators Ginger Johnson and Liz Pickett with celebrity stylist Mike B 8. J ennifer De La Cruz | The Art of Beauty Experience Exhibit

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Women’s Empowerment Summit On November 19th, 2011, over 215 women converged on the H.L. Stoutt Community College Campus for a day of Revelation, Inspiration, Rejuvenation. A range of speakers and performers graced the stage for one of the greatest events of the year, the Women’s Empowerment Summit, out of which eWoman Magazine was born.

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(British Virgin Islands)

Women’s Empowerment Summit

(British Virgin Islands)

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eHappenings January 07-14

12-15

13-15

14-15

Caribbean Writing Retreat

Cayman Islands Cookout

Bermuda Marathon

Sunshine Insurance Race Weekend

Trinidad & Tobago

The Cayman Islands

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23-24

Caribbean Marketplace

Plastic Surgery Conference

Nassau, Bahamas

Hamilton, Bermuda

Nassau Bahamas

Tortola, BVI

February 02-05

03-05

05

20-21

Caribbean Yoga Conference

Girlfriends Expo

Panache Beauty Conference

Carnival

Montego Bay, Jamaica

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Bridgetown, Barbados

Kingston, Jamaica

Trinidad and Tobago

Island Beauty c o s m e t i c s

Celebrate your natural beauty with Island Beauty Cosmetics’ true match system.

Long lasting, 100% natural cosmetics designed especially for the Caribbean climate.

Available throughout the Caribbean beginning January 2012.

Beauty undefined Available exclusively at

Tonique Williams Darling Highway Nassau, Bahamas 242 356 7502 Like Us On:

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