T.E.Dennis Photography

By Patrick Dennis Jr.

In a day and age when it seems every young black person claims to be a rapper, few stand out from the crowd. Toronto’s own Reema Major is one of those few aspiring artists whose style, delivery and persona appear to be genuine and long lasting.

The self-proclaimed “Mother of the new school era, and young buck that the old G’s co-sign” showcased her skills this past Tuesday at Canada’s Wonderland. The event entitled “Summer Bling” featured some of the city’s best young talents and also one of Canada’s top artists, Karl Wolf. Reema headlined the event and did not disappoint.

At the tender age of 16, Reema has mastered the art of performing. On stage she has the confidence and swagger of artists at least twice her age, but as the cliché goes- age is nothing but a number. Performing her current song on the radio, “I’m The One” Reema showed why so many have called her the queen of Canadian hip-hop. Her lyrics and punch lines are hard hitting; she flows like an artist who has been doing this for years.

Many are quick to compare her style to that of Nicki Minaj. “I think that when you are a female coming into a male-dominated industry, people are quick to compare.” explained Reema.  “I think it’s reassurance you are doing something right–if you’re whack you won’t be compared at all.”  Considering the fact that Reema has really only been putting out music since she was 15, it’s tough compare her body of work to Minaj. From a lyrical stand point however, hands down Reema takes the win. The honesty and conviction in her music speaks for itself.

Reema insists that there is no animosity towards Nicki or any other female artists; she gladly welcomes the comparisons as she knows that when people hear her music and get to know her better as an artist the comparisons will stop. She is a firm believer that female artists need to stick together. “I think power is important, and I think unity is power. Where there is a strong team together, there will be power and by women fighting it just makes us weak,” she proclaimed.

Having gone through a lot in her young life, Reema uses her music as her expression and voice. With all the success she has gained so far she remains humble and grateful for it all. “I’m just grateful. As a ghetto kid, this time last year I was sitting on a stoop. No deal, no money- just a ghetto kid. You have to stay humble because as quick as he [GOD] gave it to you; he can take it away,” Reema explained. It is that understanding and attitude that draws people to her.

Speaking to her you feel like you’re talking to someone wise beyond her years. The delivery of her rhymes mixed with the complexity of her lyrics the perfect blend of what hip-hop and rap truly are. A student of the old school era of flow, Reema uses clever word play not heard in many artists today. She is certainly above the crowd.

This fast-talking, intelligent and passionate artist is certainly on her way to becoming a superstar. She is currently promoting her mixtape, I AM LEGEND (which is available for download on her website), Reema is also busy working on her debut album (due out sometime in 2012). Reema Major will be performing alongside another Toronto artist, KOS at the CNE on September 2^nd.

By Stephanie Pollard

Although he is currently without a record deal, Pickering, Ont.-based recording artist Najjah Calibur is determined to make his mark in the ultra-competitive music industry. Sway caught up with the artistic maverick to find out about the highs and lows of doing it solo.

Sway: What challenges have you faced as an independent artist?
Najjah Calibur: The main challenge is organization, structure and opportunities falling through the cracks. If I’m [taking on multiple roles], everything’s 50 per cent of what it should be. Credibility is also big because nobody knows who I am and I’m not attached to anything. What is helping me more recently is that I have Farley Flex in my corner. He’s taking me on and seeing what I’m doing.

What are some of the rewards of being your own boss?
I get to do more on my own creativity-wise, which I love, and it’s a fun challenge. It’s exciting. I used to sneak into the MuchMusic Video Awards every year. This year, I got invited. You take pride in these baby steps. It’s a great feeling to look at MuchMusic’s site and see “Justin Bieber” and “Najjah from Pickering.” When you get something off of your hard work, blood, sweat and tears, no one can take that away from you.

Along with being a musician, you are a motivational speaker. Who are you hoping to inspire?
I like to talk about character development and empowerment with the kids because a lot of people feel like they can’t do something. I know a lot of guys in jail and a lot of guys who are successful. The guys in jail are no different — it’s just the choices they made. When these guys are still young, you’re trying to make an impression and plant a seed. Hopefully, someone else comes along, sprinkles a little water and it will grow. But if it’s not planted, you have nothing to come back to.

Rochelle Hanson/ARDEAN PETERS

By Rochelle Hanson

When you take a bottle of sunscreen and read the label, can you pronounce the ingredients? Most of us are conditioned to buy generic products off the shelves to supply our basic needs. I’m not an expert on the topic, but I do know that whatever you put on your skin will be absorbed into your blood stream. Would you ever consider eating your sunscreen? What about your body lotion or your makeup, would you eat that? It’s common knowledge that the chemicals in most of these consumer products are not healthy for us, yet for some reason, most of us are not concerned about it.

Have you ever considered using coconut oil as a natural sunscreen? Because it’s a saturated fat, the bonds are stronger. Coconut oil is built to take the heat. It remains stable when under direct heat while cooking even at high temperatures up to 160 C or 350 F. Both inside and out, coconut oil is tremendously beneficial to the body. I just wrote a blog post about the benefits of coconut oil. They are countless. You’re welcome to have a look at the blog if you’d like to know more.

It’s been a long time since I’ve bought a regular consumer product for my skin. Knowing that the skin is the largest organ of the body, I decided that if I am going to be treating my body well on the inside, it didn’t make much sense to neglect the outside and clog up my pores with chemicals. The first thing I stopped buying is off-the-shelf facial cleansers. I was spending so much money trying the latest greatest thing. For months I used a mixture of baking soda and water as a facial cleanser. This was very effective but it was also a bit drying and i had to follow up with an oil to moisturize. Then I switched to apple cider vinegar and water. I also used that for months as well. Really enjoyed the benefits but also found it to be a bit drying.

Just about two weeks ago I started using the Oil Cleansing Method. My friends, let me tell you, this is it. I could tell right away. Every time I use this method, my skin improves in appearance, elasticity, and texture. It’s getting to the point where I’ve finally decided to let go of all the makeup, well at least the foundation. This was a very difficult decision for me to make because I am a recording artist, and people are always taking pictures of me. I’ve tried to let go of it before, and I always reverted back. I’ve decided to commit to 30 days with no makeup. I’m loving the skin that I’m in.

So, what is the Oil Cleansing Method? Simply stated, you are cleansing your face with oil. I do it in the shower. For the past two weeks I’ve been using 100% castor oil. I rub a dime sized amount of the oil into my skin in a circular motion. I let the steam of the shower open up my pores and allow the oil to penetrate. Then i take a clean washcloth used only for my face, and wet it with water as hot as I can stand it. I place the cloth over my face and press the cloth into my skin, pulling out the oils. Then I wipe any excess oils away.

This may sound strange, but when you think about it, oil bonds to oil, so if you use clean oil to remove the gunk and dirt that’s trapped in the oils of your skin, the two oils will bond and your face will be clean. There are a ton of ladies doing this on YouTube, which is where I got the idea. The one who impressed me the most is, MopTopMaven. Watch her video on oil cleansing to get even more ideas. Her skin is absolutely gorgeous. She will walk you through the entire process and you can see her entire skin care regimen using all natural products.

So the next time you’re about to slather on the body lotion or smear on the sunscreen, think about your overall health and the cumulative impact of the chemicals you choose to put on your body. You are beautiful, you are intelligent, and you deserve the very best. Consider a natural alternative. Start loving the skin that you’re in.

Rochelle Hanson is a Freelance Writer and Natural Health Enthusiast, offering practical tips on natural health and wellness. For recipes, motivation, and ideas on natural health, connect with Rochelle on Facebook, and subscribe to her blog, Simply Natural Ideas.

Salome Odeny, School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture student

By Samuel Getachew

Canada’s largest festival, Toronto’s Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto (Formally Scotiabank Caribana), will celebrate its 44th year this July.

For the second year in a row, Centennial College, through its award-winning School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture department, will be an integral participant in the widely popular event. According to the college, “the partnership allows students to fulfill important cultural components of the program with the expert guidance of a specialist in Mas costume design and construction.”

Sway caught up with Steve McKinnon, a student of Centennial, and Verona Barclay, Chair of School of Hospitality,Tourism and Culture at Centennial, the duo behind the initiative to participate in Toronto’s great cultural event.

SG: Tell us about the two-year-old partnership between Centennial and the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival?

This exciting partnership is the first time a college in Ontario has participated in the Caribbean Carnival in this manner. What is also unique about this partnership is that it is entirely a student initiative. Students from our School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture built a showpiece costume that stood almost two storeys tall, debuting at the King and Queen Show and marquee parade.

SG: What has been the reception like among students so far. I have heard of many students of many backgrounds enjoyed the first experience last year?

The students who participated tremendously enjoyed the experience.  They were from diverse cultural backgrounds, yet the Caribbean Carnival is inclusive…you do not have to be from the Caribbean islands to participate and enjoy. The students worked under the continuous guidance and support from the costume designers at Tribal Knights Mas Camp. The student volunteers, who included some international visa students from China, created a rainforest-themed costume, which they say aligns with the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture’s mission to promote responsible and sustainable cultural heritage tourism.

The Caribbean Carnival costume was worn by Salome Odeny, a third-year Hospitality and Tourism Administration student. Odeny, who is from Kenya, had been working out in a gym just to be able to carry the 200-pound costume. Although our team didn’t win the competition, they received plenty of accolades and applause from the massive crowds. They also garnered the attention of CP24, which mentioned the college’s submission in its July 29 broadcast. By all accounts, Centennial’s first entry in the King and Queen event was a great success.

SG: How did a mere student idea become a reality?

The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture’s Dean Shyam Ranganathan and Tribal Knights’ costume designer Dexter Seusahai met and discussed the idea of a project. Volunteers were sought and the assembled team came up with a theme. “It is a rain-forest theme,” said Norine Bedminster, one of the Centennial student volunteers. The chosen theme and design aligns with the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture’s mission to promote responsible and sustainable cultural heritage tourism.

The costume weighs a whopping 200 pounds. “I am working out just to be able to carry this costume around at the parade,” says Salome Odeny, the student masquerader who wore the costume last year. Odeny, who is from Kenya, is a third-year Hospitality and Tourism Administration student at Centennial College. Canadian and international students at Centennial College teamed up together on the project. With initiatives such as this one, students learn how to work in teams towards common goals. They also knew it was an opportunity for international college students to practice their English language skills outside of an academic setting. These are some of the reasons they wanted the idea to work.

SG: What is the main objective of the partnership and what are you hoping to achieve in the long term?

This partnership further enables us to actively engage our students and the College as a whole with the greater community. The history and contributions of the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival is profound and vital to the cultural diversity of Toronto. To look at its contributions and history is to be amazed to say the very least. The Festival – which celebrated its 43rd anniversary in 2010 – is the largest Caribbean festival in North America. Presented by the Festival Management Committee, the three-week festival attracts more than one million participants annually, including hundreds of thousands of American tourists. Drawing inspiration from the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival Festival falls around the anniversary of the emancipation from slavery in Trinidad on August 1, 1834. We are lucky to be its contributors.

SG – Any lasting words?

Last year’s chosen theme, titled “The Amazon Rainforest” aligned with the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture’s mission to promote responsible and sustainable tourism. Many students are even more excited with what this year has to offer them. This year’s theme for Centennial College with Tribal’s Knights will be the first time ever to be in a specific section “Legends of the Orient”. It will showcase our students craftsmanship, the ability to work together for a common goal and gives them the perspective on how to run a festival. For many of our international students, it has introduced them to the great rich diversity of Canada while helping them fulfill their promise as talented students.

Sarah Onyango

By Samuel Getachew

Ottawa-based Sarah Onyango’s favourite quote is Mahatma Gandhi’s, “You must be the change you want to see in the world”. In deeds and words, she is a reflection of this famous quote as well as being a great advocate for her community.

Onyango reflects with Sway about what Obama’s success has meant for her, the current state of Ottawa’s black community, and pays tribute to the elders in the community.

SG : You have used the power of the media to tell everyday black stories for many years. You have been involved with CHUO 89.1 FM campus community radio, Rogers TV and Ottawa’s The Spectrum for a very long time in addition to creating your online “community hub” BlackOttawa411. Please share with us your experience so far.

Sarah: In my 15 years or so of involvement with community media, I am pleased to see how much of an impact I have been able to make in terms of helping increase the visibility of our black success stories in the mainstream.

I have been very lucky to have so many elements of this black community entrust me with their stories, encourage and support me in such a steadfast manner. I’m glad to have been able to use my media access and influence to help “build community” by connecting groups and people who otherwise would be operating in silos, completely oblivious to each other’s existence.

SG: Your favourite quote is Mahatma Gandhi’s “You must be the change you want to see in the world.” Please explain.

Sarah: Yes, and you should add “Actions speak louder than words.” In our black community, many of us bemoan our lack of advancement in “Mainstream Canada”, our lack of economic clout, the way our achievements and those of other blacks are overlooked or minimised, the over-representation of our men in prisons, etc.

Do the same number of complainers actually take concrete action to improve our lot and that of our fellow blacks? What made me decide to work in community media was the fact that I wanted to be a part of the solution. So I set about seeking opportunities to do that.

SG : You have been a resident of Ottawa-Gatineau for a very long time. You have observed the state of the black community through your many roles including as a activist and a community builder. What are some of the positive changes you have been observing recently?

Sarah: I like the energy and enthusiasm of our young black people, that “can do” attitude that seems to be spreading. An increasing number of them are present in our universities and colleges and there seems to be a new generation of black leaders emerging. Technology has helped these young people network and organize, in ways unheard of even in my day.  And the mainstream media have taken notice. In our local papers and TV news programs you hear more of those “good news” stories than you did even a decade ago.

I’m also pleased that the divide between continental Africans and Caribbeans that may have been more prevalent in the previous generations seems to be lessening tremendously with this new, more open-minded generation of blacks.

SG: As a Kenyan-born Canadian, you must have been proud of Barack Obama’s success in the United States. Do you think that might be possible in Canada, a country that prides itself on being an open and progressive society?

Sarah with Susan L.Taylor, former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine at the 2010 Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Convention in Washington, DC.

Sarah: Well how can a Kenyan not be proud of President Obama’s astounding political career and his worldwide impact?! His campaign and subsequent election galvanized our black community back here and motivated many of us to take a greater interest in civic engagement and politics. However, I’m not convinced [black Canadians]would be that passionate about a black Prime Minister of Canada at this point.

Unlike the United States, we do not have that critical mass of “indigenous” Canadian blacks that would greatly facilitate political mobilization on a massive national scale. Black Canada is a product of numerous waves of immigration, under many different circumstances. Then you throw in the cultural, linguistic and religious diversity and the whole “mosaic” versus “melting pot model of integration, and you get an idea of the complex setup we’re dealing with.

I think that our community leaders, churches, community organizations etc. need to do a better job of promoting “active citizenship” in our black community and work together to help us become a more informed and engaged black electorate.

SG : What are some of the projects you are involved in?

Sarah: I volunteer for Black History Ottawa, promoting our Canadian black history and the contribution of blacks to Canada’s development. I am also a member of the Black Women’s Civic Engagement network, which shines a spotlight on black women’s contributions to political and civic life in Canada. I unofficially support many other programs and groups focused on empowering our black youth and New Canadians, including OCISO, the Black Canadian Scholarship Fund, Jaku Konbit. I also volunteer with the United Way as a presenter of the Community Builder Awards.

SG: Any parting words?

Sarah: To our elders: our young people need you, your mentorship, encouragement, and especially your stories of how you have built your lives in Canada. Why should they look only to remote figures in books and archival footage for inspiration when you are right there to inspire them in person?

Young people: your elders are an infinitely valuable source of useful information and inspiration You have much to gain from their lives. I encourage you to take the time to document their stories using all that fancy technology we now have so that they can be include in the larger Canadian story.

Lastly, it’s time to stop hyphenating ourselves and segregating ourselves even within our own black community by nationality of origin. Many of us have been in Canada for decades. We have built families, homes and businesses here. Canada can’t just be a “second passport” or a convenient address. We are here to stay and we must claim our Canadian identity fully (when we’ve figured out what that is!).

Yes, I am a proud Maple-leaf-waving patriotic Canadian of Kenyan ancestry. This country has provided opportunities I could only dream of “back home” and I intend to “give back” for as long as I’m able.

Naki (in hat) with her brother, Daddy and Mommy in High Park

By Naki Osutei

As we neared Father’s Day 2011, I could not help but take stock of the fact that so many people I know are estranged from, or have very strained relationships with, their fathers. While, like most adults, my relationship with Dad has had its share of difficulties (we’re all human, after all), the very fact that I can call on my Dad for advice, support and last-minute help makes me very fortunate indeed.

In addition to the very foundational lessons (i.e. love God, love family and love self), I want to highlight three lessons my Daddy has shared with me in different ways over the years.

Lesson #1 – I’ll teach you how…mostly so you don’t destroy it.

Both of my parents love music and incidentally, our next door neighbour in the high-rise tower I grew up in did, too.  He was a nightclub DJ, originally from Germany and spent hours practicing his sets. Upon discovering a three year-old Naki dancing in front of his door, he decided to make mix tapes and LP suggestions for my parents.  Naturally, this led to the purchase of a TeleFunken sound system (cutting-edge technology at the time).

My dad took the time to teach me how to put the needle on the record, knowing that I would be curious and want to do this anyway.  Not only did this create a novelty for guests who would visit and share their amazement at the sight of a four year-old music selector, but it meant that he didn’t have to worry that I would scratch records or tear apart cassettes out of an unmanaged curiosity.

Complemented by trips to the Science Centre, High Park, local farms and other sites of learning, that early lesson helped me to be unafraid of exploring the unknown. As a result, both my brother and I are curious, love to explore how things work and challenge ourselves to ‘figure it out’.

Lesson #2 – Yes, who you know is important.

My dad tells the story of coming to Canada in 1979 and it is marked with many of the challenges you hear in the stories of immigrants. What has always intrigued me is the role his network played in helping him apply to come to Canada.  It was the senior leaders he met through his work on student councils in Ghana who introduced him to the people who could help along in his journey to apply to come to Canada.

I’ve held that lesson close to me as I’ve traversed through my educational and professional careers.  When I’ve had to make decisions about jobs to take or courses to pursue, my Dad has reminded me to look for new, diverse, challenging networks in which to invest – they are a ‘currency’ of their own.

Lesson #3 – We [the family] struggle and celebrate together.

We grew up with the expectation that you offer to do anything you can to help your family members and you mark even the smallest victories with celebration. Examples go back decades and continue to this day.

Though I knew nothing about Humanities at the time, at the age of seven, my small, nimble hands were able to more quickly type my Dad’s essays than his were. Among her myriad examples of sacrifice, my Mom, without hesitation, would empty her purse to ensure my brother and I had lunch money before we left for school.

My dad took an indefinite leave of absence to be at the hospital with me round the clock when I fell seriously ill. Throughout his high school years, my brother made himself available to edit my undergraduate essays and continues to do that for me to this day. In addition to being there in hard times, we’ve also taken the time to mark the victories in life as well. The Mandarin Restaurant photo fridge magnets are evidence of that.

Certainly, there are many other lessons Dad has shared with me, but these seem to be the ones that resonate most with me at this point in my life.

Naki Osutei is the VP, Strategy at the Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance and founding director of CivicAction’s Emerging Leaders Network, a network of almost 400 rising leaders and co-founder of DiverseCity Fellows, a participant-driven leadership development program.

Kabukuwo

By Anya Wassenberg

Kabakuwo means ‘fantastic’ in the Bamako language of Mali, and there’s no doubt that’s the kind of show the group delivered at Toronto’s Lula Lounge on Thursday night.  The club was packed despite the holiday weekend, with the sizeable crowd emerging sweaty and satisfied after a two-hour set.

The music comes from a base of insistent polyrhythms layered over with multiple string patterns, with the vocals rising above the powerful mix.  It’s an irresistible force, and the dancefloor was filling up by their second song.

With members that hail from Mali, Senegal and Québec, Kabakuwo plays music rooted in West Africa, including both traditional and original compositions. They sing in Mandingo (also called Mandingue or Mandinka) and Wolof (a Senegalese language,) with one song in French. The Mandinka empire dates back to the 13^th century, stretching over large sections of present day West Africa. It left a culture rich in performing arts, including the highly developed musical legacy that Kabakuwo brings into the present day.

The five talented members play ten instruments between them, with Sadio Sissokho on percussion (djembé, sabar, tama), and lead vocals. He sings in the Senegalese style, reminding me at times of world renowned Baaba Maal from the same country.  Sadio was born into a clan of musicians, called griots in the West African tradition.

Diely Mori Tounkara and Estelle Lavoie both play guitar and kora, trading riffs back and forth along with adding vocals. The pair is responsible for writing the band’s original material. Diely Mori is brother to legendary guitarist Djelimady Tounkara of Mali’s Super Rail Band and the AfroCubism supergroup project released last year.

Cédric Dind-Lavoie (no relation to Estelle) deftly covers electric bass, double bass and backing vocals. Jean-Sébastien Nicol is a really gifted talent on the drumkit – in this kind of music, a firm rhythmic base is absolutely essential, and he was easily able to hold down the complex patterns. I heard shades of reggae, Latin rhythms and guitar rock threading in and out of the African influences.

The band got together as a quartet without a drumkit when Diely Mori arrived in Canada in 2007. “Dieli would always say, though, ‘we need  drummer, it gets people going!’,” Estelle laughed during the break. Jean-Sébastien was added in 2009 and since then, they’ve been playing as a five-piece band with a busy schedule that has included appearances at a raft of music festivals along with club dates.

The bar is set very high in terms of musicianship, all of them able to pull off the polyrhythmic material without breaking into a sweat. Each had a chance to show off their chops in a solo, but true to the tradition, it was Sadio on percussion who took the more flamboyant role.

They played two sets with a 15-minute break in between. Often flowing from one song right into the next, the tempo varied from slow and deliberate to the kind of breakneck speed that sent the dancefloor into a frenzy. Estelle is an accomplished student of African dance herself, and provided some of the fireworks on stage. A few audience members jumped on stage during percussion solos for a dance, and Sadio enticed anyone with talent out of the crowd and into the spotlight.

Virtually the entire club was on its feet for the encore, which included an extended showcase for the dancers in the crowd.  That’s the real power of West African musical traditions – it’s about making the audience a partner in the performance.

Anya Wassenberg is a longtime freelance writer with a specialty in arts and culture. Check out her blog www.artandculturemaven.com.

By Erica Phillips

In light of fights for democracy in the Middle East, Canadians should wave the Canadian flag even more proudly, not just on Canada Day or at sporting matches, but every day. Every year thousands of people choose to start their lives over in Canada: soldiers fight— and die to protect our freedoms around the world.

This is a great time to reflect on the things we hold dear: the ability to vote freely, health care, and of course the arts.

“Canada is the music industry’s best kept secret. What you have here is amazing. Keep taking chances,” said Lady Gaga’s manager Troy Carter at Canadian Music Week earlier this year.

Canadian music is as rich, vibrant and diverse as this country’s enviable landscapes. Canadian musicians thrive across the musical spectrum: blues, folk, country, rock, jazz, pop, R&B, reggae, calypso and more. Nominations and wins at award shows such as the Grammys, BET Awards, Country Music Awards are evidence of our musical prowess, popularity and acceptance on the world stage.

The Canadian music scene is more than Neil Young, Burton Cummings, Gordon Lightfoot and Celine Dion— all reasons to be proud. Before we had Drake, K’Naan, Fefe Dobson, Debra Cox, Saidah Baba Talibah, Shakura S’Aida and Measha Brueggergosman, we had pioneers such as R. Nathaniel Dett, Dan Hill, Salome Bey, Oscar Peterson, Joe Sealy, Molly Johnson, the Dream Warriors, Maestro Fresh Wes, Jackie Richardson and Portia White.

Most of these performers are still touring: Dett died in 1943, White died in 1968, Peterson died in 2007; they made Canada proud on the world stage. Maestro (Wes Williams) is an accomplished actor.

Some of the aforementioned acts, though Canadian treasures, were not born here but chose to make Canada home— Bey was born in the U.S.– and found acceptance and success here.

It hasn’t been easy for black artists: they’ve faced obstacles such as getting radio airplay and recognition at the Junos.

Everyday Canadians excel in so many fields, whether they were born here or moved here later in life. Canada doesn’t just export natural resources: it exports talent.

Be proud of our pioneers in various areas:

R. Nathaniel Dett 1882-1943

This composer was born in Ontario, studied composition in Paris, performed for two U.S. presidents, and earned several degrees including a BA in music, an MA in music and honourary degrees. According to the website, nathanieldettchorale.org,“Nathaniel Dett was dedicated to the cause of Black Music, winning the Bowdoin and Frances Boott prizes in I 920 from Harvard University for his paper “The Emancipation of Negro Music” and for his motet “Don’t Be Weary, Traveller.”

Brainerd Blyden-Taylor founded the Nathaniel Dett Chorale, which performs Afrocentric music in 1998. Dett died in the U.S., where he taught and was president of the National Association of Negro Musicians.

Portia White 1911-1968

This contralto, who was born in Nova Scotia, performed around the world; she sang for Queen Elizabeth in 1964 in Prince Edward Island. White taught many famous vocalists including Robert Goulet and Lorne Green. Canada Post honoured her with a commemorative stamp in 1999.

Oscar Peterson 1925-2007

Born in Quebec, Peterson became a world-renowned jazz pianist; he performed at Carnegie Hall in 1949. According to www.oscarpeterson.com, “His ‘Hymn to Freedom’ became one of the crusade songs of the Civil Rights Movement.” He also promoted human rights in Canada. Peterson composed more than 400 pieces including music for many films and earned several awards— he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1972. Peterson performed with some of the greats including: Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie.

Tonya Lee Williams

Best known for her role on The Young and the Restless, Williams, was born in England and eventually moved to Canada with her mother. She is an actress, director, producer and festival founder.Actress / Director / Producer / Festival Founder Williams has earned several Canadian and American awards for her work. Besides Y&R, Williams has appeared in numerous television shows including Falcon Crest and Hill Street Blues. Williams founded the Reelworld Film Festival in 2001, an internationally recognized event that is geared to creating opportunities for artists of colour.

Alison Sealy-Smith

Sealy-Smith has been a familiar face and voice on Canadian and American stage, television— and video games for decades. Born in Barbados, her list of credits includes Street Legal, X-men, Blue Murder, Naturally, Sadie, ‘Da Kink My Hair, Twelfth Night, and Harlem Duet. Toronto-based Sealy-Smith is also a founding director of the Obsidian Theatre Company and has been recognized with numerous accolades for her work in Canada’s arts community.

Clement Virgo

A director, producer and writer, Virgo is an award winning filmmaker. Born in Jamaica, he and his family moved to Canada in 1977. His film credits include: Rude, The Planet of Junior Brown and Love Come Down. Virgo’s films have appeared at film festivals around the world. He also directed episodes of televisions shows such as Soul Food and The L Word.

Dionne Brand

Brand has been publishing for more than 30 years starting with Fore Day Morning in 1978. Originally from Trinidad, she came to Canada in 1970. Brand has published six books of poetry, plus collections of short stories, books of poetry and essays. A filmmaker too, Brand has been member of the faculty at the University of Guelph since 2005 and has been a visiting professor at universities in the U.S. and Canada. Recently she won the Griffin Poetry Prize. She has also won Governor General’s Award. Her long bibliography includes 18 books.

Austin Clarke

Clarke is an award-winning, internationally known author. Even though he was born in Barbados his considered a Canadian icon. A former broadcaster and journalist, Clarke published his first novel Survivors of the Crossing in 1964. He since published several novels, collections of short stories and memoirs: Growing up Stupid Under the Union Jack, The Prime Minister and The Polished Hoe. He also taught creative writing at several American universities.

Lawrence Hill

Hill is a member of a prominent family: his father is the late Dr. Daniel Hill Sr., founder of the Ontario Black History Society and the first chair of the Ontario Human Rights Commission. And his brother is singer-songwriter Dan Hill. Lawrence a former reporter is an internationally recognized author. His works include: Black Berry, Sweet Juice: On Being Black and White in Canada The Book of Negroes, and Any Known Blood. Lawrence has several accolades including literary awards and honorary doctorates.

Compiled by Shaundra Selvaggi

Tuesday, May 31

CFC Worldwide Short Film Festival

The CFC Worldwide Short Film Festival (WSFF) is the premier venue for the exhibition and promotion of short film in North America. Taking place May 31 – June 5, the WSFF is dedicated to celebrating the quality and creative range of short films.

Visit worldwideshortfilmfest.com for more info on featured films, schedule and locations

Thursday, June 2

COBA presents EMBERS

Collective of Black Artists (COBA) showcases emerging artists from its three-year Professional Training and Apprenticeship Program with Embers.

COBA’s mission is to preserve the cultural traditions of Africa and the African diaspora through education, research and public performance.

Palmerston Library Theatre. 7:30pm. www.cobainc.com

Midnight Junk

Photographer George Dumitru’s latest work depicts the found ‘junk’ in the Mojave Desert. Shot entirely at night, utilizing innovative light painting, life and vibrancy shine through the rust to bring the subjects to life.

Cinnamon Girls Cafe. 7:30pm.

Friday, June 3

Waterfront Blues Festival

The Waterfront Blues Festival is back for lucky #7.  Blues lovers can head down to Toronto’s Waterfront for three days of gut-wrenching performances by acts such as, Curtis Salgado, Larry McCray, Teeny Tucker, Johnny Rawls, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne, and Gary Kendall & Chuck Jackson of Downchild!

Woodbine Park. June 3 – 5. FREE www.waterfrontblues.ca

Mansa Sissoko with Kassoum Diamoutene

Batuki Music Society and the Gladstone Hotel present Malian kora virtuoso and griot Mansa Sissoko, accompanied by bala player Kassoum Diamoutene, the next in the World Concert Series that takes place on the first Friday of every month.  All concerts are free; they feature a diverse lineup of performers with a strong focus on African music. Guest DJ Apollo will spin from his extensive collection of African popular and classic hits. Guest appearance by Zimbabwean mbira players, Mutamba Rainos & Pasi Gunguwo.

Melody Bar. 7pm. FREE

1st Fridays

The 17th Anniversary Celebration will feature GM Canada President Kevin Williams, Trey Anthony (da Kink in My Hair) and Nneka Elliott  (former CP24 Reporter) – The Media Huddle, the afterparty and more…Hosted by Warren Salmon & Mesfun Y Haile with music supplied by The Mailman George Fynn. Early Bird Admission is $15 with dinner reservations (Dinner extra), $20 for presentations & afterparty (until May31st)

Kultura. Dinner from 7- 10pm (seating from 7 – 8pm – Reservations Required)

www.firstfridays.ca

Saturday, June 4

Muhtadi International Drumming Festival

Drummers and musicians come together for Toronto’s annual international drumming festival which will celebrate its 12th anniversary on June 4th and 5th 2011.  Toronto will be treated to international drummers representing cultures from Africa, North America, South America, Europe, India, Japan, China, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, South Korea, and the Middle East.

Children’s Play Area, ethnic cuisine, exotic arts and crafts, Workshop programs included.

Queen’s Park North. June 3 & 4. www.muhtadidrumfest.com

African Canadian Achievement Awards

The 26^th Annual African Canadian Achievement Awards will feature a spectacular evening of tributes, interspersed with performances by award-winning entertainers. The ACAA recognizes and honours the accomplishments, achievements and excellence of African-Canadians in fourteen categories. It is also intended to offer sparkling testimonies of hope and inspiration to our youth — courageous examples of achievement and “overcoming” which they can emulate and perpetuate.

Jane Mallett Theatre. 7:30pm. $35

Camille Jones, CLU

By Camille Jones

Have you wondered where all your money goes at the end of the month? Is it the bills swallowing up all of your income? Or is it eating out, going to the mall, and entertainment habits? The only solution is one we all hate to hear. You know, the B word. A budget.

A budget is an essential element of financial planning. It’s a great tool for not only monitoring finances, but for building better habits and getting your goals under control. The financial rewards of budgeting are great: growing your wealth, building financial confidence and gaining peace of mind.
Here are some basic steps for you to start your monthly budget.

1.    Calculate your TOTAL monthly income
-    List all income sources including salary, commissions, bonuses, business royalties
-    Use after tax amounts

2.    List Expenses
-    Consult your banking statements and list ALL your expenses. Monthly and annual
-    Separate your ‘fixed’ and ‘variable’ expenses
-    Expenses vary so take an average over three to four months
-    Also include your monthly contributions to your RSP or savings

3.    Total and Subtract
-    Total your income and expenses separately to see how much comes in each month and how much goes out
-    Subtract your expenses from your income to determine the amount left to save and invest

**This is an important number because it shows you how successful you are in managing your money. If the figure is small or a minus, you have to work on what ‘variable’ expenses you can reduce.

Use your budget to find ways to increase your savings and investments. How? Consider the following:

4.    Reduce Expenses
-    Identify expenses that can be cut and assist in setting new spending objectives
-    Decide how much you can realistically cut, but don’t go overboard; try cutting back a little at a time. If your goals are overly strict, you’ll never stick to them

5.    Review your Debt
-    How much can you pay down faster?
-    Is there a way to reduce overall interest costs, such as consolidating existing debts or payment plans?

You should consider working an expert financial planner to develop a short-term investment plan. Once your cost-cutting plan is in place, you should review your progress every few months. You may find further opportunities for shaving expenses, and you will most certainly see that you have more money left over to invest for your future!

Call Camille Jones, CLU to get started on your budget today.  647-856-8048