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Patwa Apparel is preparing to produce its 2015 fashion line and has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help to produce the samples. According to the CEO of Patwa Apparel LTD, Heneka Watkis-Porter, the campaign aims to raise US$10,500 which would enable her to rebrand the line for a more international appeal. "To accomplish the new vision we need to secure an experienced production facility in the Caribbean to design, source fabrics, and produce samples for the new collection, the entrepreneur explained. "We've designed several perks including pieces from our collection and copies of my new book 15 Hints to Entrepreneurial Success: Lessons From A Caribbean Woman for those who contribute to the fund." "If we are unable to reach our goal, the money received will go towards re-designing the interior of the flagship Patwa Apparel Outlet at Shop # 12 Devon House to reflect an environment which is more conducive to retail." Currently Patwa Apparel is imprinted with phrases/expressions written in Jamaican patois with the corresponding English translation. Since 2007, the line has been showcased across Jamaica, in the USA, Europe, South American and China. Most recently the collection was showcased in the Dominican Republic during their Fashion Week Domincana Moda 2013. In 2012, National Bakery awarded Patwa Apparel a "Bold One"for their hard work in manufacturing. Since then, Patwa Apparel has evolved into other ventures for Heneka including two radio programs, The Entrepreneurial You on Power 106 FM and Living On Purpose and her new book. You can support the Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign by visiting www.patwaapparel.com. ...................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

On Sunday (July 6th) Lillian Lightbourn, was crowned the new Miss Bermuda 2014 defeating seven other competitors for the title. The Pageant took place the Fairmont Southampton. She will be competing in the Miss World Pageant to be held in the United Kingdom in December. Lillian, who currently lives and works in New York as a fashion model also won the awards for Most Photogenic and the People’s Choice winner. Additional award winners were: Miss Hospitality being awarded toMiss Warwick Cami Caines-Bean, and Miss Congeniality being awarded to Miss Devonshire Cocy-Lynne Simmons. The pageant was hosted by Nadanja Bailey and Patrina “Power Girl” Paynter. .....................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit.

Jamaica-born, New York-based fashion designer, Raxann Chin, is among the esteemed fashion designers to receive the Caribbean Style & Culture Award of Excellence - Fashion Innovation in Washington, D.C. on June 27, 2014, in honor of the ninth annual Caribbean American Heritage Month. The Caribbean Style & Culture Awards and Fashion Showcaseorganized by Karib Nation, Inc. celebrate and reward the excellence and remarkable contributions of fashion designers of Caribbean heritage who have significantly impacted the fashion industry. “The Award of Excellence in Fashion Innovation exemplifies the innovation of Caribbean fashion through unique and compelling designs, production and presentation,” said Cornel Jones, Chair of the Event Committee. Jones, who personally selected Chin for the award said he researched the fashion designer after seeing her work on the Maxine Tulloch TV Show in 2013 and was impressed with her designs and presentation. Jones followed the fashion line and felt compelled to acknowledge the fashion designer. The high-end fashion line, Femheka by Raxann Chin, founded May 11, 2012, graced the red carpets at both the 86th Academy Awards and Festival de Cannes in 2014, among other prestigious events. “It is truly validating and quite an honor to be recognized by an organization such as Karib Nation, especially after just making our two-year mark,” said Chin. “There is no greater feeling than being rewarded for the manifestations of a dream that I was determined to see through. I yielded. I trusted. I have found my home through fashion.” Karib Nation, Inc. was founded in 1992 in Baltimore, and as a non-profit organization, it promotes Caribbean-owned businesses. United States President Barack H. Obama declared June as Caribbean American Heritage Month. “Caribbean Americans are part of a great national tradition, descendants of hopeful, striving people who journeyed to our lands in search of a better life. They were drawn by a belief in the power of opportunity, a belief that through hard work and sacrifice, they could provide their children with chances they had never known. Thanks to these opportunities and their talent and perseverance, Caribbean Americans have contributed to every aspect of our society -- from science and medicine to business and the arts. During National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we honor their history, culture, and essential role in the American narrative,” said Barack Obama, during his presidential proclamation of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. Chin, who migrated to the United States with her family in 1995, joins the past awardees, which include Francis Hendy, Uzuri International, Lois Samuels, Patricia Coates, Michael Chataigne, Bill Edwards, Roger Gary to name a few. The awarded fashion designers took part in a week of activities that included networking and a wider platform for the promotion of their brands. The week of events hosted the Bahamas Consulate General Reception on Wednesday, June 25th, the Congressional Black Caucus on Capitol Hill & White House visit on Thursday, June 26th, a Fashion Show and the Karib Nation Inc. Awards Presentation on Friday June 27th, ending with Couture in the Park on Sunday June 29th. Part of the proceeds of the Fashion Showcase will benefit the Caribbean’s Children’s Foundation. ................................................................................................................................... Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Fashion company BEAU Designs has partnered with successful emerging MUA (Make-UpAriste) Nikisha Benjamin-Richardson in a sizzling summer fashion shoot last weekend. Held at the majestic Trinidad and Tobago Hyatt Regency, the shoot was an extremely successful marriage of two intrinsic and highly artistic aspects of the fashion industry, where meticulous and intricate flawlessly applied make-up complimented the bold and daring designs of BEAU. From the stylish ‘Kissed by a Rose’, a sensuous cascade of wine stained lace and flowing, crimson satin to the classically elegant ‘Secret Purple’ with smokeybrushed eyes as well as seductively parted lips glossed in full ruby, the pieces were shot around the opulent settings of the hotel by renowned fashion photographer Luis Young, who captured the many moods and beauty of both the faces and figures of the models. Sai-ann, who was contacted by Ms. Benjamin-Richardson to provide the wardrobe of the shoot, decided to feature both designs as they best represent the hidden beauty most women possess. Ms. Benjamin-Richardson was also greatly impressed by the use ofcolour in the designs, stating that they suited her own approach towards make-up. The self taught MUA strongly believes that the face should be expressed equally as the body, as this is what a woman offers to the world: an image of confidence, exquisite beauty and playful radiance. Both women were equally impressed by the designs and skills of the other and have promised to work closely and frequently with each other on future endeavors. BEAU Designs is currently preparing to release its sophomore collection geared towards the professional working woman.‘Sphinx’ comprises of twelve sophisticated, elegantly casual pieces which can be worn as stand alone items or subsequently mixed and matched for added creativity. Aptly named for the creature of Greek and Egyptian mythology and its penchant for testing travelers with riddles, the creature’s most famous answer has been creatively flipped into the line. Scheduled for a tentative release later in the year, Sphinx is Sai-ann’s second presentation at Caribe Fashions ‘Trini Styles’, which gives local designers a forum to showcase their skill in fashion design, dressmaking and accessorizing. She impressed both judges and critiques alike with her first fashion offering, ‘BEAU’, which she has subsequently expanded and now bears the name of her company. By Adrian Simmons, Freelance Writer/Press Officer. ............................................................................................................................ Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit

Her story is as intriguing, fierce and beautiful as her sweet, sweet T & T born and bred looks and style. Cherisse, lovingly known as CHERI works relentlessly and is highly respected as a freelance journalist after working in numerous major media powerhouses all over the "Land of oil and music". Cheri from her views on taking risks and "leaps of faith", what is her favourite pastime to her featured, interviewed with a superstar that you maybe shocked that wasn't her BEST experience to her travels to New York, Miami and her home away from, my home ST. MAARTEN. A woman truly after my own heart and inspiration, enjoy CHERI in this Q&A as her pleasant and convivial personality jumps at you through the page and into your heart, leaving you humming about this media jewel from The "Hummingbird" Island. WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Born and raised in sweet Trinidad. DESCRIBE ALL THE ENTREPRENEURIAL HATS THAT YOU WEAR. WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE? I am a freelance journalist and have been in the media industry for the past 11 years. I started my career in television at Trinidad and TobagoTelevision (TTT) as a trainee/junior reporter. I then worked in radio at WMJX 100.5FM as a senior news editor/ announcer and then at The Trinidad Guardian Newspaper as a Senior Features Reporter. I have since won several awards for my stories. I write features, news, news features and business articles; as well as bios and promotional articles for artistes and up and coming entrepreneurs.....I dabble in everything really as I am awell rounded writer. I also do articles for various local, regional and international magazines. I am a voice talent for radio and television advertisements. During my 2 year foray as a freelancer, I have covered assignments overseas in St Maarten, Jamaica and Miami. My own media company – What’s Trending Media and Marketing Company - is also in the works. Although each experience has its pros and cons my favourite is probably print media because writing is my passion. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A JOURNALIST? It’s kinda weird because growing up I wanted to be a lawyer or psychologist. The media sort of happened to me, but I realized a long time ago that it is exactly what I was meant to do. I cannot see myself doing an 8 to 4. God makes no mistakes. YOU SAID YOU HAVE BEEN TO ST.MAARTEN AND HOW IT REMINDS YOU OF HOME, HOW SO? Yes. I visited St Maarten for the first time two years ago to work as a media specialist alongside my friend and Bahamian freelance journalist, Inderia Saunders, to help coordinate and launch the very first technology center in the island called Computech. It was a great experience and I loved every minute of it. St Maarten has such a Trini vibe to it - From the warmth and friendliness of the people who you meet casually in the street, to the delicious food. I visited both the French and Dutch sides...but I must say the Dutch part of the island is my favourite. "IF YOU DON'T TAKE RISKS, YOU WILL ALWAYS WORK FOR SOMEONE WHO DOES" WHAT RISKS HAVE YOU TAKEN IN YOUR CAREER THAT HAS PLACED YOU IN A MORE SUCCESSFUL POSITION? Life is all about taking risks… My biggest risk, thus far was leaving the Trinidad Guardian after 4 plus years to go it alone as a freelancer. At the Guardian (as it's commonly called) I wrote on a myriad of topics including fashion, music, health and human interest. However, I felt the urge to do more to realise my full potential. Leaving a permanent job where my salary is sure at the end of the month was deemed 'crazy' by some of my peers but I did it anyway. I have learnt a lot. I have no regrets. Cheri Interviewing Chris Brown YOU HAVE STATED THAT YOU LOVED INTERVIEWING CHRIS BROWN, LIONEL RICHIE, MAXI PRIEST AND TNT HEART THROBS KES AND THE BAND, WHO HAVEN'T YOU ENJOYED INTERVIEWING AND WHY? I have interviewed so many local, regional and international personalities - some are very pleasant, others not so much. If I had to choose one person I didn't enjoy interviewing would be Keyshia Cole. I covered her concert in Trinidad a few years ago and I went backstage to ask her some questions for my story and she wasn't very accommodating. I don’t know, maybe she was tired or something?? WHAT IS YOUR PERFECT "LIME"? This always comes as a shock to many people, but I'm not a party person at all. I have covered so many events and fetes as a features reporter, but that's just me doing my job. I prefer more laid back limes actually. My perfect lime will be anywhere with my close (crazy) friends just having fun with lots of laughter. I always say the company trumps the venue. Oh! And somewhere with plenty nice food...I love to eat! IN ONE WORD, EXPLAIN HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING A BEAUTIFUL AND A SUCCESSFUL TRINIDADIAN WOMAN Empowered. By: SharLisa Peterson ........................................................................................................................................... Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Melanie Fiona's parents immigrated to Canada from Guyana in the late 1970s, a few years before she was born. She grew up in a musical household; her mother sang at home and her father was a professional guitarist. At around 16, Melaniebegan writing her own songs, and two years later, she became a member of an all-girl singing group called X-Quisite alongside Nicole Holness and Nirvana Savoury. Although the group didn't last, Melanie continued to perform, mostly in clubs in the Toronto area. In 2005, she traveled to Los Angeles in the hopes of being signed by a major record label. While working on getting her own singing career off the ground in the mid-2000s, Melanie gain work as a songwriter, co-writing tracks for Rihanna and Kardinal Offishall, among others. In 2007, she was signed toUniversal Motown subsidiary SRC Records. She went on to tour with Kanye West in his Glow in the Dark Tour. Prior to completing her debut album, Hallim met with recording artist Jay-Z and his friend Tyty She also recorded a reggae song called "Somebody Come Get Me" under the stage name Syren Hall. The song was included on the 2008 Reggae Gold compilation. Fiona is a dramatic soprano. Her voice has been referred to as being both "soulful" and "sassy." Some have praised her vocals for being "very passionate, but clean and controlled, and not over-the-top singing." Her debut album, The Bridge, was released in June 2009. The album spawned four singles in the U.S., the most successful of which, "It Kills Me," reached No. 1 on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and stayed there for 10 weeks. In her native Canada, the biggest hit from the album was the first single, "Give It To Me Right," which reached No. 20 on the Canadian charts. After the 2010 Haiti earthquake, Fiona participated in "We Are the World 25 for Haiti" to benefit and later toured with Alicia Keys as an opening act on The Freedom Tour Her second album, The MF Life, was released in summer 2011. The lead single was titled "Gone and Never Coming Back." The single peaked at 37 on US R&B chart, becoming her second highest peaking song on the R&B chart so far. Later on that year Fiona released her second single, "4 AM" was sent to urban stations on August 30, 2011. 4am peaked on the US R&B chart at #8, the song was about a lover who had gone out and was cheating on her. The album was released on March 20, 2012 A newly independent artist, Fiona is currently planning her third album and promoting her new single "Cold Piece." ...............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, on February 26, 1985, Sanya Richards-Ross moved to the United States with her family at the age of 12. They lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a place her parents thought would best suit their aspiring track star's career. Richards-Ross demonstrated her talents early on, scoring a silver medal in the 400-meter event and a bronze medal in the 200-meter event at the 2002 World Junior Championships. That same year, she was named the Gatorade National High School Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year. While a student at the University of Texas, Richards-Rossbecame the 2003 NCAA 400-meter champion. That same year, she won the NCAA Indoor Championship in the 200-meter event. Competing at the 2004 Summer Olympics, Richards-Ross helped bring home gold in the 400-meter relay. Richards-Ross took the track world by storm in 2006 with two victories at the World Cup, taking the top spot in both the 200-meter and 400-meter events. At the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, she earned two medals. She helped take the gold in the 400-meter relay, and scored her first individual medal in the 200-meter event. Richards-Ross began struggling with some health issues in 2007, and had to sit out the 2010 season because of an injury. She quickly recovered, however, and became the 400-meter World Indoor Champion in 2012. After receiving a bronze medal in 2008,Richards-Ross began to focus on achieving a personal goal: Earning a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. In August 2012, Richards-Ross achieved her goal for the gold, winning the women's 400 meters at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, and becoming a three-time Olympic gold medalist. The win marked her first independent gold medal. Sanya Richards-Ross and husband Aaron Ross Richards-Ross is married to her college boyfriend, Aaron Ross, a professional football player. He played with the New York Giants from 2007 to 2011, and is now a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Outside of competition, Richards-Ross runs the Sanya Richards Fast Track Program to help children in her native nation, Jamaica. Source ............................................................................................................................................. Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit.

Nuyorican- [as defined by the Wikipedia] is aportmanteau of the terms "New York" and "Puerto Rican" and refers to the members or culture of the Puerto Rican diaspora located in or around New York State especially the New York City metropolitan area, or of their descendants (especially those raised or still living in the New York area). This term could be used for Puerto Ricans living in other areas in the Northeast outside New York State. Popular Nuyoricans would be many of our most successful and powerful people not only in our Hispanic community but the world, such as: Jennifer Lopez, Rosie Perez, Mark Anthony and Adrien Bailion. Although, our featured estrella de Puerto Rico isn't from New York City she possess that fire, exotic beauty and desire to make “IT” in the "concrete jungle" via her many talents such as modelling, writing and singing (to name a few) our gyal Angelica is determined to create a LEGACY that we won't forget any time soon As I am, "mixed" Dutch Antillean with Dominican (and Mexican Indian) I have a few daily SAYINGS IN PAPIAMENTO and SPANISH. What ARE some of yours? I tend to say "Tú sabes", "Ay díos mio", "mira!" and I like to tease the non Spanish speaking guys by calling them papi! Lol The PR day parade is this month! What are usually your plans? Actually, I've never attended the PR day parade. This may be the year I do attend. You never know! Puerto Ricans in NYC are called Nuyoricans. What was your upbringing and household like as a Nuyorican? Honestly, I don't consider myself as a Nuyorican, I always thought you had to be born in NYC to qualify. LOL What are the current projects you are working on? I'm currently designing a shoe line for ToyGal Shoes of South Africa, Spokesmodel for I AM Culture, recording an album and most proud accomplishment I've joined a charity to help foster children. That's amazing! You do quite a few things. Which is your favourite? Singing by far! How long have you been singing? All my life. I grew up in church singing. What are you most proud of being LATINA? We are a diverse race of people. I love that I can break down stereotypes usually people assume I’m Middle Eastern or Indian. I love my heritage. My father was born on the island, so I am the first generation born in the USA. I've met so many people in life, that wish they were Hispanic. I thank God that He chose to birth me in this culture as a Puerto Rican woman. In one word, describe where you see the ANGELICA LEGACY brand in three years. GLOBAL Where else have you been featured and how can we keep up with the legacy movement. Bravotv.com, connect with me via social media on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. It's really me and I do respond. I like talking and interacting with people. By: SharLisa Peterson ............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

She owned the hallways. Her confident and to some, intimidating presence accompanied by her full, long and thick hair and dreamy voluptuous figure could be felt and respected all over Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens, New York. Bianca Belve from then has always in some way, shape or form was a force to be reckoned with. I had the pleasure of running into one of my HS "play"cousins (you know when you are super close with someone or have the same physical attributes as a friendly acquaintance in our community they become 'FamLay') recently during a quick in between jobs lunch at Friday's. Excitingly catching up with one another, especially on us embarking on our hobby turned professional careers to my surprise, she was now Bianca the artist, a painter! I was left speechless as she showed me pictures of her work and I knew we HAD to #jumpinthecab avec mon amie. Check out this candid and awe inspiring interview as I display not only the masterpiece that is her art, but, her life. Ladies and Gentlemen...Mademoiselle Belve. WHAT IS YOUR NATIONALITY? I'm Haitian WHERE ARE YOU ORIGINALLY FROM AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW? Queens, New York & I still live in Queens. DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD (RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR PARENTS, YOUR SCHOOLING, YOUR DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS AT THE TIME ETC, FRIENDS ETC.) I am an only child so being alone has always been something that I used to. Since I can remember my mother has always been a huge support system, she always kept me busy while placing me into all types of dance classes and sports. Our relationship has always been special, since I can remember till today she is my absolute best friend and number one supporter. When I was younger, I wanted to play basketball and when I broke my ankle that dream sadly enough was shattered. I did continue to stay active, although I couldn't play basketball I joined the track team to strengthen my leg, cheerleading it was all a great fun in high school. All of the people that I surround myself with are friends that I have had forever, I can go back all the way to the 3rd grade and we are very close still till this very day. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO HAITI? Yes. I haven't been to Haiti in a couple of years, but I can say I loved it when I did visit and hope to return very soon. WHAT MADE YOU START YOUR ARTISTRY? AND WHY PAINTING IN PARTICULAR? I was always interested in art coming from an artistic family where some make music, others paint I honestly think it runs in my blood. I decided to take a class and all we did was paint, listen to soft music and drink wine. It was such a great time and from that day on I continued to paint. I enjoyed how calming and therapeutic it was and still is for me till today. DESCRIBE A TIME OF TURMOIL THAT YOU WENT THROUGH THAT CHANGED YOUR FOR THE BETTER My relationship with my father was basically non-existent and it took a really huge burden on me while growing up, my mission was to speak to him and build a relationship. I decided to reach out a couple of years ago and we did meet however, no relationship was build I guess he didn't feel the same way as I did. "Every little girl needs her daddy" When I realized that we would never have that bond that I yearned for, yes it hurt, but, with time I allowed myself to continue to be great after all it really is his loss. This has changed me for the better because with or without him in my life I will be successful. WHAT WAS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT ESTABLISHING YOUR SELF AS AN ARTIST? The hardest thing would have to be getting people to take you seriously everyone does something and not everyone is serious and sometimes it's hard to distinguish the two. However, being that I have over 90 pieces in 6 months should set me aside from many. WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE OF YOUR FIRST SALE OF A PAINTING, HOW DID IT GO DOWN? I recently sold my first piece and it happened because I was emotionally attached to it, being that it was made for someone I use to date. However, I decided to part with it and some other pieces and it was the first to go. It was a very nice experience, very humbling and the words of encouragement from the buyer who is also a very good friend made the experience very sweet. WERE THERE NEY-SAYERS WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED YOUR JOURNEY? AND WHAT IS THERE OPINION NOW? Yes, of course anytime you want to do something to better yourself there always seems to be people who think you can't do it and you’re wasting your time. I never fed into the idea of not making my dreams reality EVER since I was young so it would be tough to really discourage me. Now that I have been exposing myself more and getting more exposure I don't think they have any choice but to respect it. Basically, I am living proof that if you want something bad enough you have to work hard and eventually you will be recognized for your work. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMAN SUFFERING FROM A SERIOUS BREAKUP? I would simply say I know it hurts, it hurts to have to leave someone you put time, energy and love in but you have to leave with a smile because god really makes no mistakes he doesn't put people in situations they can't handle and this too is a learning lesson. It's ok to hurt just don't let it consume you write it down in a journal, cry it out and 6 months or even a year from now go back and I promise you will ask yourself what in the world was I thinking. AFTER YOU FINISH A PAINTING HOW DO YOU FEEL? After I finish painting I feel almost empty I try to put my feelings and emotions in every painting, so if I'm hurt before I paint I won't be hurting after. HOW DO YOU FEEL PROUD AND CONNECTED TO YOUR HAITIAN CULTURE? I love being Haitian! I really do, from the culture, the language and the food, ohhhh my, if you have never had Haitian food your truly cheating yourself. I wear my Haitian flag proudly everyday letting everyone know that I am Haitian and my family, both my mother and father’s side have built a name for themselves in the Haitian community, I myself must live up to. When I last visited Haiti I saw many things but, one I will never forget was all the paintings on the street from all these talented young, old artist and they paint beautifully. This alone symbolizes more than most can grasp an artist paints either what they see or how they feel and every single painting have a history, had life and had a culture within them. So I ask what is there no to love? WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO PAINT? I mostly paint upon emotion so I listen to music and go off into my own world with colours that represent how I feel or what I'm missing, this allows me to also create something I'm missing. TAKE US THROUGH YOUR PROCESS WHEN YOU START A PIECE. When I start a piece the first thing I do is to rub on the canvas with both hands to get the feel of what I am about to create. I then decide if I will be drawing first or just using paint. I start off small and move my way around the canvas. Sometimes I flip the canvas over and over to see exactly what I may be creating and I just let the brush flow. IF YOU HAD TO DO A CUSTOM PIECE FOR A SPECIFIC CLIENT, WHAT WOULD YOU NEED TO KNOW OR FEEL OR SEE FROM YOUR CLIENT? I would ask for a story and through that story I could put my spin on it and create something I feel would connect to their emotion. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIECE THAT YOU HAVE DONE? AND WHY? It would have to be my very first piece that I did on my own, it's a mother and newborn baby, and it is my favourite because it reminds me of my mother and me. It's beautiful, it's peaceful and I truly believe it is us. WHO IS SOMEONE THAT YOU ADMIRE/LOOK UP TOO IN YOUR INDUSTRY/FIELD? I am still learning about artists and getting familiarized with the industry, however, Claude Monet has a piece at Moma in NYC. It's huge first of all and it took a while to let it all sink in but, it's fantastic, it's called “Water Lillie's” and it's the reflection of the shadow in the water. My goodness, such amazing work and it has been influential to me as a new artist. IN ONE WORD DESCRIBE BIANCA THE PAINTER Confidence .............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Hailing from the smallest landmass In the world that is governed by TWO super powers (The Netherlands and France); St. Maarten/St.Martin is a 37 square mile paradise for travelers of all kinds, especially us " MUSIC HEADS"Now, I am from the Dutch side and love my local "limes" but every Friday you can catch me at the premiere dancing spot Lago Heights located on the French side. The infectious vibes, delicious food and beautiful people only offset a passionate night of dancing to the sweet sounds of primarily Zoukmusic. You can't predict your night, but two things you can be sure of is, a great time and one of the French man- dem to ask you to dance by starting with MonCherie. Sweetheart is only one of the many attributes that describe this gorgeous, talented rising star MONCHERIE. Representing one of my neighbouring islands, ST Lucia, this gem from the emerald isle, shares it all about her daily activities "back home" to her Patra, Diana Ross and Lady Saw fused and influenced music. #jumpinthecab Mon Amies You have a gorgeous, exotic look! What is your nationality? I am from the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, and I am biracial. Explain a typical day in St. Lucia for you when you go back home. Well, I wake up to my mother’s cooking, take my siblings to school and link up with my friends to do something fun! Like go to the beach. Describe your musical style and who are you influenced by. I am a very diverse artist; I grew up on gospel but ventured out and started listening to dancehall and reggae music. My influences are Patra, Lady Saw and Dianna Ross. Why 'Mon Cherie'? Well, it is my real name and it also represents where I am from, MonCherie is a French name which means “sweetheart.” St. Lucia was colonized by the French seven times and we also speak French creole.When people listen to my music I want them to: A) Feel B) Hear C) See..... What?When people listen to my music I want them to feel good about themselves, about their confidence and about their lifestyles. I want them to hear all the hard work that I put in in order to give them quality music. I want them to see a young girl who made it out of bad situations and following her dreams. What is your favorite #CARIBBEAN genre to listen to? And what are a few of your favourite songs/ artists from it? My favourite genre is dancehall music. My favourite songs, I have so many of them, but my songs are really my favourite because I made them up from being inspired. When people hear the name MON CHERIE, what's the one thing that you want to come to their mind? When people hear MonCherie the first thing that should come to their mind is “Confidence.” By: Sharlisa Peterson The CABTV .............................................................................................................................................Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

2014 will be a year of firsts for CFW, which is no easy accomplishment for an event in its 14th year of fashion innovation and excellence. Designers showing, include Trinidad & Tobago’s Claudia Pegus and Meiling, the UK’s Alicia Mullings, Jamaica’s Juliette Dyke of Julan and New York fashion house Hope Wade Designs. These particular designers will also be taking part in the new online shopping experience, Shopcaribbeanfashion.com designed to introduce and export the crème of the region’s fashion design talent to an international audience. The CFW team has partnered with Jessica Huie, founder of London agency JH Public Relations (www.jhpr.co.uk) and international branding expert Kubi Springer (www.shebuildsbrands.com) to launch Shopcaribbeanfashion.com, introduce on-site shopping at CFW, and develop the brand’s business forum, which takes place on the morning of June 14, prior to the evening’s fashion show. Claudia Pegus has truly earned her place in Caribbean fashion history. For over three decades, she has been internationally known for her signature designs featuring handmade embroidery work on various types of silk and other luxury fabrics. Her creations are wider in content, context and appeal, but these luxury pieces are the core of her CPFS label. Claudia is the recipient of Trinidadian national honours, as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence and Remarkable Contributions to the Caribbean Fashion Industry. She is also a CFW Caribbean master designer awardee. Today when one thinks of fashion in the Caribbean, one name cannot be escaped…Meiling. Meiling is a graduate of the Lucie Clayton School of Design in London, England, but continues to learn and be inspired by the world and by the melting pot that is her base, Trinidad. Best loved for her ability to weave passion, confidence, sensuality, wit and individuality into her clothes. Twice a year Meiling produces two dynamic and breathtaking retail collections, guaranteed to set the town talking and aspiring to the Meiling look. London based Designer Alicia Mullings found her talent in fashion design and pursued her aspirations back in early 2010, after she was made redundant from her specialist/qualified role as a sound operator in television. When Alicia is designing she is inspired by everyday people, nature, and a desire to be influential in encouraging positive attitudes in what can feel like a “negative world.” Jamaican designer, Juliette Andrea Dyke gracefully blends her fascination with history and a broad spectrum of influences, from art to nature, into coherent and flowing designs. Julan pairs the 50s silhouette with her signature shantung silk, cotton and linen for a contemporary natural yet eye-grabbing look. Just a peak into what Caribbean Fashionweek 2014 has to offer this June 11-16th, Kingston, Jamaica. ................................................................................................................................... Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..

Shadeisha George was recently crownedMISS SVG 2014. She will represent her country at the Miss Carival Pageant on July 4th. She beat out 7 other contestants for the title of MISS SVG 2014. First runner-up was Miss Mustique Co. Ltd. Karla Gellizeau who also won Best Swimwear. While second runner-up went Miss Agricultural Input Warehouse Shackell Bobb capping the awards for Best Interview and Miss Photogenic Twenty-one-year-old Shadeisha also was awarded Best Talent and Best Evening Wear. Her outfit was designed by her chaperon, renowned Vincentian designer, Kimon Bapitse. Shadeisha George in winning outfit Other sectional award winners were: Miss Congeniality — Miss Super Six Authority Vanika Hope. Most Community Spirited —Miss Lotto Jamilla Neverson. Other contestants were: Fellisia Baptiste, Selis Blair, and Tatiana Lespierre. Shadeisha is currently employed at Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and hopes to pursue studies in International Relations at the University of the West Indies. ................................................................................................................................. Copyright 2014 Caribbean E-Magazine All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without credit..