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Guyana Fashion Weekend plans begin with designer auditions

Sonia Noel and a ModelTaking Guyana’s fashion to the world

Fresh back from showcasing her new world Sonia Noel Resort line in Tobago and her Mariska’s line with shades of pink in support of breast cancer awareness Sonia Noel is now focused on Guyana Fashion Weekend 2010.

The ever busy designer told this publication that all focus is now set on making the 2010 even grander than in years past. “Guyana Fashion Weekend is set for Oct 30 and 31 at The Pegasus Hotel and will feature designers from Guyana as well as international designers and some from the Caribbean.

As a prelude, registration for hopeful local designers to the event commences on Tuesday June 15 and ends on Saturday. This is the word from GFW CEO Sonia Noel as she encourages new designers to present sketches and one or two complete pieces during the period at her Silhouette showroom Barr Street Kitty at the former Rayon House of Fashion building.  She also let up that among the lot of designers will be Guyana Born Diaspora based designers.

After showcasing her creations on many Caribbean catwalks, Sonia Noel’s first fashion weekend show was staged in August of 2007 and has since been staged at the Buddies Hotel, the Georgetown Cricket Club Ground. The event normally features regional and international designers as well as models. This year’s event will feature as special focus on Breast Cancer awareness. Meanwhile the Search for Guyana’s next top model male, female and full figured and chef is soon to climax. Noel can be contacted on 226-3099.

By Mondale Smith

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Introducing: RadiKal One

RadikalPositive vibes Hauraruni village kid Jason Beaton

Amidst much talk of youths being only associated with negative vibes and influences of violence in dancehall this publication introduces Jason Lester Beaton a.k.a ‘Radikal one.’

From Hauraruni, Soesdyke linden highway this youth age 22 is a kid with big dreams to promote positivism in dance hall/ reggae Gospel style and has  completed a six track album to prove this.

A graduate of the Dora Secondary School he is currently  a student Global technology  Studying Network Plus and A+ with the ultimate goal to become an entrepreneur  who  has the business know how but can also sing of the unsearchable riches of God in Christ Jesus. “I got started singing six years ago in churches and at various entertainment events and thus far I’ve completed a six track album aptly titled ‘RADIKAL ONE,” he said.

Standing at  the height of 6ft 6ins, like every youth he says he has had his fare share of hanging with the crowd and wanting to fit in no matter the cost, and often was  a problem child in secondary school. As he puts it “my parents are Christian missionaries and I was the embarrassment.” Then came the wake up call through a friend.  “He asked me, how could you be the child of pastors and be living the life of a rebellious kid… no example at all,” Radika recalled.

Though he had heard words to that effect before that statement finally made sense and his womanizing days grounded to a halt.  Now the rest is His-story.

I’m now focused on  my educational development seriously; and also on  my music … I love Dancehall and I know what  it can do  to  youths so I’m  gonna  sing dance hall  laced with the  word of God to create positive influences in the lives of  partying youths.  To me Youths are not all bad we just sometimes do things to fit in and also to be part of the in crowd to get attention but I am proof to say things can turn around with God for a better living.

The six tracks album comprises five songs created in the Brutal tracks Studios with assistance from Ken da Beat Maker and another done in Trinidad.

They include ‘Na compromise’  which declares that  no matter what the cost we need to  decide that we stand for God always and though the road may get tough God will see us through at any age and stage.

‘Come mek them fight meh’ is another hot song that encourages you to hold fast to your dreams despite the nay Sayers.

The artistes who is  aiming to go global with his message  also  has completed a song titled ‘give Jesus everything’ and that features artistes from Canada and Trinidad such as DJ evangelist, Baby C, Kester D and Tandika as well as himself.

On the album too there is one song that speaks of war in which many youth dies, but this version tell of what one has to do  to ensure that one  stands  with God  against spiritual and emotional issues and unfolding with principalities and powers and  rulers of darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places.

Another must hear for Dancehall lovers seeking positive vibes is the “God the  Greatest” song which tells of  the undying and unwavering love of God  for man kind despite their wicked ways.

Last but not least is the one that was done for a Bahamas based deejay ‘God Son’  titled ‘ Search feh them soul’ and it tells encourages Christians to  get out of their bench warming ways  and going into the world and to preach and teach as alight to those in the dark.

“I patter myself off of my brother-in-law Solid Youth who is the motivator that keeps me going musically.  Radikal One is signed to the ReadyBack Records label out of Jamaica headed by Saint Matthews. He can be contacted on 646-2716email [email protected] you can also find him on face book and myspace social networks.

As he trod on to fulfill his calling in God as a Christian he say the music is laced with the word of God but is not just for  Christians  it’s for any  person who want to  enjoy  and learn of God’s goodness at the youth dancehall level.

Ultimately he’s aiming to hit the international music main stream where he says he will be able to ad to the voices that speak of positive vibes and hope for youths.

By Mondale Smith

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Solid Youth drops new music video

Solid YouthAfter months of listening to the audio version, of the inspirational Solid as a Rock album David Yasin aka Solid Youth has dropped yet another inspirational reggae influenced music video for dancehall music lover.

Dubbed ‘You’re Gonna make it’ the song was recorded in Jamaica several months ago and is one of twelve on the album available at Gift Land Officemax.

When the album was launched the video ‘I’m back’ was also released to rave reviews for its on location in Jamaica scenes and message. Now this new video filmed in Guyana at locations such as Albouystown offers much hope to the stressed out, the lost, the lonely and the helpless.

The artistes says “It uses the gospel of the Holy bible craftily to tell listeners  that with God you will live and not die…you’re gonna make it no matter hard them a try…”

Explaining further he said “this song is for everyone to be motivated and its not religious just the truth that we know all so well but it makes perfect sense musically.

“You can and will be encouraged and up lifted by the message no matter your age, race class or creed the artistes assures of the song that  has all the making of an international hit.

Solid youth is also working on a few more videos with plans to do a national and an international tour before year end.

The 25-year-old said the song’s inspiration was fueled by his father Apostle Mohammed Yasin who had several heart attacks and almost died on each occasion.

“I thought that he was gonna die but through faith and prayers he is still alive and well, thank God….”    He said too that the word of God speaks about life and death in the tongue and so as a prophesy the song speaks into the life of those who have lost all hope and want out… the reason why you are still alive despite your difficulty is because God has purpose and a plan for your life and its not limited to sickness or disease. No matter the situation you are gonna make it no matter what” the Bartician said.

The video filmed and directed by Reverent Colin Edghill and the artistes  and was edited by Darrel Pugsley.

By Mondale Smith

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The University of Guyana Guild of Graduates, Ontario

As part of the Calendar of Events to celebrate the 44th Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence, the University of Guyana Guild of Graduates, Ontario (UGGGO) will be hosting a talk and video presentation on “The Life and Cultural Practices of the Amerindian People of Guyana” by Lal Balkarran, together with an exhibition of books by Guyanese writers in Toronto.

This event will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2010, from 1.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. at the Malvern Library, 30 Sewells Road, Toronto, ON, M1B 3G5.

Mr. Balkaran is the author of several books including An Encyclopaedia of the Guyanese Amerindians, A Photographic Journey and Photographic Scenes of Amerindian Life, and A Photo-journal of the Guyanese Amerindians . He has lived and worked among the Amerindians of Guyana and brings first-hand knowledge to the topic.

Authors interested in displaying their books should contact Ed Yhap 905-470-9648, or Jeanette Singh 416-446-6490, or Harry Hergash 416-626-2897 by June 5, 2010.

EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Directions
Closest major intersection: Sheppard Ave. East and Neilson Rd. Located one block east of Neilson Rd. on the north side of Sewells Rd. (part of the Malvern Community Centre).

Parking
Free -Community Centre.

Public Transit
TTC buses #131, 132 & 133 from Scarborough Town Centre.

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Little Miss Moniques Cotillion programme launched

Cotillian PrincessesThe Annual Little Ms. Monique’s Cotillion was Launched on June 4th 2010, at 14:00hrs at the Ocean View Hotel.
The Little Ms. Monique’s Cotillion Program not only excels in traditional cotillion instruction of dancing and etiquette, but also provides excellent lessons in hands-on dining and goal setting. This new program offers convenience to parents and young girls, while allowing them time to do various activities along with fund-raising causes and special events.
The six-month program concludes with a Cotillion Ball and Awards Program.
Monique’s Caring Hands Support Center, Little Ms. Monique’s Cotillion offers etiquette classes within Georgetown, and currently has eleven participants in the program. By working with schools at their location, the program will be more accessible to students as well as no cost to parents. The program is currently geared toward young girls from ages 8 to fourteen years old.

This etiquette and social skills program teaches children all the important skills for everyday life and beyond. They will learn to shake hands, make correct introductions, write thank you letters, respond to RSVP’s, be a host, be a guest, dress for the occasion, set the table, dine with manners, and learn what it means to have nice social skills.
CEO, Dawn Stewart said “our world is fast paced and busy, sometimes making it hard for parents to find the time to teach their children etiquette; most of the time they are just trying to make it through the day. Unfortunately, TV and movies don’t show enough examples of proper behavior, so simple lessons like these help the child to know what correct behavior is and that it is expected of them. These lessons, along with reinforcements from home and school, will help guide children to becoming well-behaved young adults!”

Monique’s Caring Hands Support Center believes that having good social skills and being able to properly present one’s self, is a necessity in today’s increasingly competitive society. It empowers individuals to feel comfortable with themselves and others, to communicate more effectively, and to set a leadership example in school, business, or in any social situation; promoting personal growth, confidence and character. In a progressive world where definitions are often lost, words such as courtesy, sensitivity, and respect often overlooked – Monique’s Cotillions will stands as a model in educating the young to enjoy, appreciate and respect their role in society.

In addition, persons who have made a contribution to the children of Guyana and supported Monique’s in their ventures will receive awards in their honor. The event will conclude with the Cotillion ball an evening packed with entertainment to include cocktails and dinner.
Cost for event is $5000 dollars and we are asking the public to purchase tickets. Fifty percent (50%) of the funds raised by the cotillions will be used by Monique’s Helping Hands Support Center to assist in our annual charity programs for children only, 10% will be used to provide gifts for the winners of the cotillion, 40% will be used for the various skills training, outings, events, and the cotillion ball for the Cotillion participants.

Founded in 2003, CPIC Monique’s Caring Hands Support Centre is a non-governmental volunteer organization with a primary mission to promote the quality of life for all Guyanese people with an emphasis on health, education and family registered as a friendly society in Guyana, S.A.
To contact CPIC Monique’s Caring Hands Support Centre. Email: [email protected] Phone: 227-0996

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Sonia Noel, three models for FWTT

ModelCEO of GFW Sonia Noel will again represent Guyana at Fashion Week of Trinidad and Tobago which promises to be even bigger and better than before. FWTT provides a strategic and essential platform for merchandising and branding for Caribbean designers living in the Caribbean and the diaspora.

Rosemary Stone, Public Relations director of Fashion Week Trinidad and Tobago (FWTT) is excited about Mariska’s Designs  participation in this year’s spectacular nine day fashion festival and said  “This year we are increasing our scope – six days in Trinidad and three in Tobago.” FWTT3 kicks-off in Tobago on May 29 with a gala networking party hosted by the Tobago House of Assembly and the Tourism Development Company Limited at Coco Reef Tobago.

All told there are more than fifty designers chocked full of fashion forward options to be presented through seven identifiable Caribbean brands such as Tobago style, Resort Caribbean, cutting edge Caribbean,  cosquelle couture – trini swimwear,  nouveau Caribbean,  new world style and haute Caribbean.

Sonia Noel, in FWTT three year history will be presenting on Resort Caribbean and New World style themes and she expressed her elation at being one of the select designers to showcase in both Tobago and Trinidad.

Last year Noel’s collection was dubbed HYBRID that paid homage to vegetation and the undergrowth of the forest. The colours lilac mauve and purple represent the beautiful colours that are sometimes lost in the undergrowth.Melissa Payne  who was very impressive in the show stopper for that collection.

She goes under the label Mariska’s designs but she will be launching a Sonia Noel resort and leather sandals  line in Tobago on the 31 st May.Different  types  of cotton is utilise for this line and it is free fitting and flowing  resort dresses that you can also dress up depending on the occasion.Her versatile rap dresses which can be worn more than six ways will also be featured  in this collection.The leather footwear  line will feature slippers and sandals embellish with various types of stones.

Noel will showcase in Trinidad her new black and white collection of which she is well known for  and because for her concern for breast  cancer she will also be showing a collection of mainly pink ensemble.

The collection will showcase various shades of pink and designed with zips and button to give it that creative edge.

In addition to Sonia’s participation Guyana’s top cat walk diva Meleesa Payne as well as Guyana Model Search winners, Jumain Victor and Yolanda Kerr will strutt their stuff on the catwalks. They wing out to the twin islands for shows slated for June 2 – 6.

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Guyanese singer Bliss set to launch collaborative single

Corner features HD band member

Tiffany IsaacsWe’ve seen her in Steve’s Jewellery, and countless GT and T television advertisements as a flirtatious beauty and she’s proven to be a real diva on the local catwalks for major shows such as Guyana Fashion Weekend and The Accolade Genesis fashion rhythm. Now she’s on to the next one in search of her place in the local music industry as fierce singer looking for a spot on the international music circuit.

Born Tiffany Isaacs this 20-year-old eye candy with smooth dark chocolate skin is not just a beauty of face but also of voice bursting with melody.

She sees herself as possibly being a hit maker if given the opportunity to do so. To prove that she can sing she has already completed four songs including Bad Girl featuring Young S, Hustle over here with Galliani, Fall on the envy rhythm and want me back that crosses between the RnB, Groovy and Dance hall genres.

Now she’s about to add yet another song to the Guyanese music repertoire. Fresh back from a recording stint in Trinidad with UMI Macano an HD band member she has completed a collaboration titled ‘Corner’ and it is to be distributed to all local radio Deejays.

Called Bliss, the artiste during an interview on the BTV2 Caribbean Music Box programme expressed the hope that the song once distributed to local Deejays next week, would enjoy some favourable radio airplay. It is also being launched in Trinidad next week on several radio stations.

Like  most of the local  artistes  this budding  hit maker is calling  for more respect for the local  music industry and it stakeholders  and  for unity  among  music producers and  singers. ” I believe that Guyanese music can go somewhere if we stop  fighting among ourselves and  encourage  each other>>>I also believe that some more attention should be given to some sort of legislation to ensure that musicians  and artistes  in general  are protected   through  the implementation of relevant copy rights legislation.”

By Mondale Smith

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Guyanese Edmond Johnson set to strut stuff for FWTT

Edmond JohnsonWhen the curtain is raised for Trinidad’s third Fashion Week billed for start today (Friday) in Tobago with continuation from Monday to Friday in Trinidad next week, Guyana will be well represented not just by home based influences.

In addition to Sonia Noel’s showcases and local models Meleesa Payne, Jumain Victor and Yolanda Kerr another Guyanese, Edmond Johnson, will be strutting his stuff on the catwalk too.

This kid who originates from Norton Street Wortmanville has been residing in Trinidad for 15 years but still keeps the Golden Arrow Head flying.

He believes that the sky is the limit to what one can have as he continues to pursue his dreams of being an international Guyanese entertainer. For the FWTT event he will be among a selected bunch of models donning the creations of several designers.

Also called Ejo in his portfolio as a singer he told entertainer that he’s working feverishly to complete several songs for release by August in the Twin Island Republic. no stranger to the local entertainment scene the 32-year-old has been part of the Carib Soca Monarch competition and  has plans to  return next year  if all goes well.

Expressing excitement at being one of the specially selected few models to take to the stages in Trinidad and Tobago he said “given that Guyanese are now more accepting of overseas based singers as was the case in this year’s Soca competition, I’m contemplating a return to Guyana for the 2011 Soca Monarch competition to take on the likes of Adrian Dutchin and Jumo as well as Bones man.”

He says he has penned may songs that yet to be recorded and is hoping to  do some collaborations with some of the  main stream soca artistes in Trinidad. his recorded and released son to date includes songs such as karma, concentration,  naked, wave, bring out yuh wine, secrets, rumona and push sweetness. Karma is a conscious reggae song while the others are of the soca genres.Naked was the song he used to qualify for the Guyana Carib Soc monarch top ten several years ago while he has released a music video for the song Secrets and both have made the rounds in and out of Guyana.

He proclaims himself as an all rounder who loves singing soca and is currently working to release several new summer hits such as Money deh, a dance hall styled song.

A graduate of Alleyne’s High School Ejo won the Trinidad Model search ’emerge 2005′ as well as the 2008 Arima Fest calypso monarchy. Prior to the 2010 FWTT he was among the more experienced  models at the Guyana Fashion Weekend 2008 and 2009. He also made  guest appearances at several major fashion events in the caribbean region including Barbados.

By Mondale Smith

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Lisa says “look out for the Punch”

Lisa PunchThe little girl with a big voice who brought down the National Cultural Center several years ago with Whitney Houston’s ‘I’ll Always Love you’ in record pitch is set to have her voice heard musically again.  Lisa Punch offering an update on what has been unfolding said “music wise I am working with Brutal Recording studios and I have been doing my music.”  In fact she has a new single out called ‘secret admirer’ and soon the video will be out for that song. Since Star Guyana she says that she’s been focused on school “because without an education I can’t go nowhere in terms of being successful.” She’s still in school and is also doing music. Lisa is advising persons who supported her at star Guyana and all other music enthusiasts to “look out for me because I am coming at u with a big PUNCH soon.” Aside from being focused on education and music Lisa recently began hosting the Hard Vibes television talk show on Btv2. That show thus far has been focused on girl talk regarding issues that effect and affect women but it is not limited to women.

In 2006 Lisa out performed some of Guyana’s best amateur talents at the national cultural center in dance, drama and singing to take home the U mobile Star Guyana crown. She remains the winner to date as there is yet to be another competition.  She is often used as a lead singer in the Bishops High school all girls’ choir.

A singer, dancer and an actress who is very friendly Lisa said above all things “I love the Lord and my family”. Her favorite quote is “You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to break him down”.

On her facebook page she states: I’m blessed, young, energetic, talented, amazing and above all an inspiration. I am who I am and your opinion is neither desired, nor required”. Lisa’s voice was the one that sang the CARIFESTA X theme  when Guyana hosted the event in 2008.

By Mondale Smith

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Miss Guyana Shabeau Face selected

Madonna GhanieGuyanese MADONNA GHANIE age 19 has been selected as GUYANA’S DELEGATE to the upcoming FACE OF SHABEAU 2010 competition in Barbados. She was selected from a large line up of hopefuls who auditioned two weeks ago at the Pegasus.her pageant experience includes  being a delegate in the miss Guyana Talented teen pageant 2009 where she won the Miss Photogenic prize. Her hobbies include dancing, modeling,cooking, hanging at the Mall, camping and swimming.