OF CONTENTS table
EDITOR’S LETTER
In this issue, our editor explores the transformative power of unity, celebrating resilience, creativity, and the strength found in community.
2 3 1 E 4
WE RISE
celebrates the incredible strength and potential unleashed when women unite, sharing inspiring stories and practical advice to encourage collective empowerment and lasting positive change..
MENTAL STRENGTH
encouraging men to take care of their mental health, it’s okay to ask for help.
5
PROJECT CACCOON
a conversation with Mr. loki himself, he wants to be the biggest sudo stylist tune in.
LJAY MUSIC
Unveiling the vibrant world of Gqom with LJay Music with by Christina Gabreyano
GAMES AND FACTS
can you beat me in tic tac toe find me lets play and we also got facts you might not know.
“A CONFUSED MIND TAKES NO ACTION”
Don’t limit your challenges.
Challenge your limits.
EDITOR’S LETTER
EDITOR
Kevin nishimwe
As we embark on the creation of our second issue, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. This issue, aptly titled “The Power of We,” celebrates the collective strength, resilience, and beauty that emerges when we come together as a community.
In a world often marked by division and discord, it’s essential to recognize the transformative power of unity and solidarity. “The Power of We” reminds us that we are -not merely individual drops in the ocean, but a powerful wave capable of reshaping shores- together—that our collective voices have the potential to drive meaningful change, inspire positive action, and create a brighter future for all.
Throughout this issue, you will encounter stories of compassion, and connection that highlight the extraordinary impact we can achieve when we join forces. From personal triumphs to shared struggles, each narrative serves as a kaleidoscope of colors painting a united vision of hope and progress- a testament to the incredible potential of collective action.
At Safe Place, we believe in the power of storytelling to not only reflect our shared experiences but to illuminate the path forward- unite, uplift, and empower. Through the pages, we invite you to explore the diverse tapestry of human experience, celebrate the beauty of diversity, and discover the symphony of voices that harmonize in solidarity and embrace the inherent strength within our interconnectedness.
As we navigate the complexities of the world around us, -let us not forget that the fibers of our interconnectedness are what weave the fabric of society- may we always remember that we are not alone—that together, we have the power to overcome obstacles, to effect change, and to create a world where every voice is heard, and every soul finds solace.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, let us harness the power of we and build a future filled with -unexpected harmonies, uncharted territories, and unbreakable bonds- hope, compassion, and possibility.
With gratitude, Safe Place Magazine
IF THE UNIVERSE IS NOT FIXED NEITHER ARE YOU. Seize the identity you want for yourself.
Let’s be real, fellas. We’ve all been there. You know, those days when it feels like the weight of the world is heavier than your last bench press. Maybe it’s the pressure at work, a rough patch in your relationship, or just the general chaos of life. Whatever it is, it’s okay to admit that sometimes, it’s tough to keep it all together. And guess what? That’s perfectly normal.
MENTAL STRENGTH
For too long, society has told us that being a man means being stoic and unbreakable. But let’s smash that outdated notion right now. Real strength comes from acknowledging when we need help and having the courage to seek it.
Mental health issues don’t discriminate; they affect men from all walks of life. According to the American Psychological Association, men are less likely to seek mental health treatment than women. This reluctance often stems from fear of
being judged or perceived as weak. But here’s the kicker: talking about mental health is one of the most empowering things you can do.
Take Jake, for example. A construction worker by day and a self-proclaimed grill master by night, Jake seemed like the epitome of toughness. But behind his easygoing exterior, he struggled with anxiety and depression. “I thought I had to handle it on my own,” he admits. “But opening up to my buddies and seeking therapy was a game-changer. It didn’t make me less of a man; it made me a better one.”
TRANQUILITY
SERENITY
One of the biggest barriers to seeking help is the stigma surrounding mental health. It’s time we change the conversation. Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness; they’re a part of being human. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can create an environment where it’s okay to not be okay.
Encouraging men to prioritize their mental health is a journey, not a destination. It’s about creating a culture where vulnerability is seen as a strength and seeking help is a sign of courage. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that it’s okay to reach out. You’re not alone, and there’s a community ready to support you. Let’s redefine what it means to be a strong man. It’s not about how much you can lift or how tough you can act. It’s about being strong enough to take care of your mind and being brave enough to talk about it. Because in the end, a strong mind makes for a strong man.
“Just know it get hot in the kitchen boy and everything might not work properly but you still gotta cook my boi”
-DC youngfly-
With
strength and steady hands
A fathers love, like lands
Guiding us unseen yet firm, Through storms and endless night.
Every sacrifice, a seed he plants
In dream filled fields where courage chants, His whispers, in the twilight air
Encouragement, beyond compare.
Unseen he shapes with every step,
A world where we can safely rest
In shadows of his embrace
We find our way we find our place.
For all the unnoticed toils endured
The countless battles fought assured
A fathers love, both kind,
To you our dreams and life entwined.
FATHERS APPRECIATION
LWOKI LOKI 2
In this dialogue with Safe Place, Loki Man shares his evolution from aspiring designer influenced by ‘The Butterfly Effect’ to becoming a recognized wardrobe stylist and image consultant for Richard React. His early interest in brands like Jordans and Nike, and interactions with manufacturers on Alibaba, fueled his ambition to be a South Sudanese fashion icon like Virgil, emphasizing Africa’s influence. He champions mental health, self-reliance, and belief, stressing the importance of perseverance, solitude, and education in success. The discussion highlights art driven by passion, authenticity, and community support, including collaborations, clothing donations, and the significance of identity and diversity.
“ART IS MADE IN HINDSIGHT.”
Q1. So project. we’re really happy, for you to be, the first interviewee of the Safe Place magazine, we’re happy you were able to join us today and we look forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. let’s start with like the heart of it all - purpose.. How did you find your purpose?
Ans. My purpose was derived from the fear of being average. I just felt so out of place with the things that I didn’t want to become. So and that just drove me into finding my passion, which is fashion and that’s what made me happy. since a kid I was always into like the Jordans, the Nike, the main driving factor was I couldn’t afford it and, you know, people always want what they can’t have. And then it just turned into like a, a fetish man.
PROJECT
SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE
PROJECT CACOON
JEAN CACCOON Fly Africans
Before we get any further into the conversation, can you tell our readers, you know, a bit about yourself and like what you’re working on you? my name is Lwoki Loki , as you know, my brand is ProjectCaccoon which started off as you know, a clothing brand, but now it’s just a lifestyle man. It’s, projectCaccoon. growing up my favorite movie was The Butterfly Effect by Ashton Kutcher. Yeah. So, if you know what the butterfly effect means, it’s kinda like small steps in your past that will change the outcome of your future, you know what I mean? And that’s what I believe in man. Just taking some small steps that will change your future. So now I’m just you know, I was designing
and it, it didn’t really work. I didn’t like it. I didn’t like the expectations that people had of me. I didn’t like that shit, you know. So now the past two years, I’ve been full time just a wardrobe stylist and an image consultant. And I actually got to style Richard React for who is a heavyweight, a heavyweight champion in London, actually fighting tomorrow. I styled him for his press conference. I am just working on my craft man. Like I don’t like to brag and just work on my craft, bro. That’s what I got coming up. Just more work.
Q. Yes, sir. Yes, sir, of course. So looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been like your biggest area of improvement or like growth?
Wow, great question. I would say, my biggest area of growth or improvement would be the little things, be more patient, you know, real life lifestyle things that transitions into my job, you know what I mean? And, and I feel like that’s what people miss, like people focus on their work you gotta focus on you that to make your work better man. You know what I mean? The more you work on your mental, the more you take care of your health, the more energy you’ll have for your work, the more patience you’ll have for your work, everything plays a part. So, the biggest thing I improved on is my mental state. it’s not a joke, bro.
PROJECT CACCOON
REMEMBER, YOU’RE DIFFERENT ACT SO.
Q. there is so much advice out there about all the different skills or the quality that folks needs to develop and succeed in today’s competitive environment often you could feel overwhelming. And so if we had to break it down, just like three that matter most, which three skills, or what qualities would you focus on and what advice do you have for like folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they could best develop or improve on these?
Wow, great question. Well, number one, number one don’t listen to nobody around you follow your path. You are different. Number two, God made you different. So believe, believe, even when I wasn’t getting no money, man, believe, believe , believe, don’t, don’t look for the next person to gas you up for you to go take pictures, wake up and go do that for you. Go in the woods by yourself. Number three fall in love with being by yourself because in your own space you don’t, you, you, you, you’re blocking criticism, you’re blocking deteriorating opinions and things like that. Just ST and, and, and yeah, and study, study, study, study, study
IUNVEILING THE VIBRANT WORLD OF GQOM WITH LJAY MUSIC
BY CHRISTINA GABREYANO
In the pulsating heart of South Africa’s dynamic music scene lies the electrifying genre of Gqom, a sound that not only resonates with the beats of urban culture but also encapsulates the raw essence of township life.
Emerging DJ, Lucky Junior Gina, who goes under stage name Ljay Music shares with us his journey in music and as an artist. Born and bred in the bustling streets of Durban, Junior’s love for music began when he had gotten introduced to FL studio at just 16 years old.
Immersing himself in the pulsating beats and infectious energy of Gqom amongst other genres like house music which is also quite popular in South Africa, LJay was able to sharpen his skills behind the decks which resulted in him releasing an album earlier this year titled ‘Twisted Minds’ featuring K-dot Woza under the name Prince Ljay which can be found on Apple Music and Spotify.
When asked about his music influences and artists that he would like to one day work with, he listed South African DJ Black Coffee as his first choice but also went on to name Dj Tira, Kususa and Afro Brothers, all of whom also create electrifying get-on-your-feet music.
Describing Gqom, Junior went on to say “Gqom is more of a groovy club vibe.” He also went on to perfectly differentiate between Amapiano and Gqom, “Gqom is more for groove and Amapiano is more for chill, no diss to Amapiano though.”
As an artist, some days can be tough to create or stay motivated, but Ljay says that “I think the fact that I love it makes it quite easy for me to do it.”
It goes to show that when you do what you love and love what you do, the creation of art becomes almost effortless and Ljay music can agree as he leaves fellow artists with the advice of “don’t let changes in situations set you back, fall in love with what you do first, make sure that you love it because it’s easier that way.”
With plans to one day start his own record label in the foreseeable future, this is not the last we hear from LJay music.
“I LOVE WHO I AM, AND I ENCOURAGE OTHER PEOPLE TO LOVE AND EMBRACE WHO THEY ARE.”
Ladies, let’s talk about something magical: the power of we. There’s a certain kind of alchemy that happens when women come together, supporting, uplifting, and celebrating one another. It’s a force to be reckoned with, a reminder that we are stronger together than we could ever be apart. This is the essence of “The Power of We.”
“A WOMAN WITH A VOICE IS, BY DEFINITION, A STRONG WOMAN.” MELINDA GATES
One of the most incredible aspects of the power of we is the sense of community it fosters. Think of it as a sisterhood where everyone has your back. Remember when Lena Dunham, the creator of “Girls,” rallied an all-female writer’s room? It wasn’t just about representation; about creating a space where women could share their unique perspectives and stories. The result? A show that resonated deeply with women everywhere. The same spirit of community can be found in local book clubs, fitness groups, or online forums. It’s in these spaces that we find our tribe, people who cheer us on and lift us up when we need it most.
There’s an old saying that goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Solidarity among women isn’t just about support; it’s about achieving long-term goals and making lasting change. Take the women of Iceland, for instance. On October 24, 1975, 90% of Icelandic women went on strike, refusing to work, cook, or look after children. Their united stand highlighted the importance of women’s roles in society and led to significant advances in gender equality in Iceland.
So, how can you harness the power of we in your own life? Here are a few practical steps:
WE RISE
Celebrate the successes of other women as if they were your own. Share their work, offer a kind word, and be there when they need a boost. Whether it’s a project at work or a community initiative, look for opportunities to collaborate. Sharing knowledge and resources. If you’ve climbed a few rungs on the ladder, reach back and help another woman up. Mentorship is a powerful way to create a ripple effect of empowerment can lead to amazing outcomes.
“ONE LIFE IS ALL WE HAVE AND WE LIVE IT AS WE BELIEVE IN LIVING IT. BUT TO SACRIFICE WHAT YOU ARE AND TO LIVE WITHOUT BELIEF, THAT IS A FATE MORE TERRIBLE THAN DYING.”
MORE smile
HERNI MOUSSAKAYI
DEBORAH UMUTONI
JYMIE MAKURWE
ANNICK UMUTONIWASE
IMMACULE UMUTESI
DIVINE INGABIRE
A GIRL SHOULD BE TWO THINGS: WHO AND WHAT SHE WANTS
BE YOUR GREATEST FAN
DID YOU KNOW
D
id you know your body loses up to 8 percent of water on a flight?
Did you know the longest breath held underwater is 24:03 minutes?
Did you know you can tell if an egg is old based on whether it floats in water?
Did you know unless food is mixed with saliva you can’t taste it?
Did you know you can’t tickle yourself?
Did you know 85% of plant life is found in the ocean?
Did you know that water might not be wet?
Did you know You can actually die laughing?
Did you know Snails have teeth?
Well, now you know!
Consider the journey of Amina and Rachel, co-founders of a nonprofit aimed at providing educational resources to underprivileged girls. “We started with a shared dream and a lot of late-night brainstorming sessions,” says Rachel. Their combined passion and determination have since transformed the lives of hundreds of girls, proving that when women unite, incredible things happen.
Or take Serena Williams, who consistently uses her platform to advocate for women’s rights and equality. Her efforts remind us that no matter how high we rise, there’s always an opportunity to lift others along the way.
Empowering women through the power of we isn’t just a feel-good concept; it’s a transformative movement. It’s about recognizing that our collective strength can overcome any obstacle. So, let’s continue to support one another, celebrate each other’s victories, and stand united in the face of challenges.
Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we are powerful. Because in the end, the power of we is the power to change the world.
RESILIENCE
RESILIENCE
EMBRACE YOUR STRENGTH, CELEBRATE YOUR UNIQUENESS
In the garden of the world, she blooms, a radiant blossom dispelling glooms. Her spirit, a canvas of vibrant hues, with strength and grace, she daily renews. From dawn’s first light to twilight’s shade, her presence lingers, never to fade.
She’s the silent strength in stormy seas, a whisper of hope in the rustling leaves. With hands that heal and hearts that mend, she’s the courage on which we all depend. In every role she takes and makes, a symphony of kindness that never breaks.
For every tear she’s quietly dried, and every fear she’s turned to pride, here’s to the women, fierce and true. With endless gratitude, we honor you, guiding us all like stars in the sky, with resilience and a voice clear and loud.
GARNON
TAKE A STEP BACK AND BREATHE.
MAY THU
REMEMBER, THE PATH TO YOUR DREAMS IS A MARATHON, NOT A SPRINT, AND PERSISTENCE IS YOUR BEST FRIEND.
DESIGNER OF DREAMS
PATRICIA JOYNER
PAINT YOUR OWN CANVAS
Life is a canvas, and every day is a chance to add a new brushstroke. Whether you’re starting with broad, bold colors or delicate, intricate details, the masterpiece is yours to create. It begins with a vision, a spark of inspiration that ignites your passion. Picture where you want to be, feel the excitement of achieving your dreams, and hold onto that image. It’s this vision that will guide you through the ups and downs, reminding you that every challenge is just another layer of paint contributing to the final masterpiece.
FORGIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF. BELIEVE IN YOUR CURRENT SELF. CREATE YOUR FUTURE SELF
SOLUTIONS
don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Each one is a lesson, a unique part of your story that adds depth and character. Embrace the twists and turns, and adapt with grace. Flexibility allows you to discover new opportunities and perspectives you might have otherwise missed. Keep refining your craft, stay true to your vision, and trust the process. Your life is your greatest work of art, and with passion, perseverance, and a little bit of faith, you can shape it into something truly extraordinary.
SAFE PLACE
WHERE INSIPIRATION MEETS IMAGINATION: UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL
SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE