GSB.com: What are your hobbies? 
GSB.com: What is your goal in life? 
GSB.com: Any other thing about yourself you would like to add?
As at Wednesday, of an original pool of 20 beauties, 14 have arrived in the British Virgin Islands ahead of tomorrow’s Miss Caribbean World Pageant. Guyana is represented in the bunch. In a Platinum News entertainment story Alecia Hamm, the show’s organiser is quoted as saying that “right now they are having some serious fun”.
She also described them as a lively bunch and reported that some of the six others are experiencing financial difficulties.
Last Saturday Miss Guyana World 2010 Imarah Radix as well as the other contestants to the pageant arrived in the British Virgin Islands and was treated to a welcome reception by the Premier Hon. Ralph T. O´Neal Sunday evening at the Maria´s by the Sea. They dined and savoured some of the delectable indigenous dishes of the BVI and rocked to music provided by the Lashing Dogs sounds.
Miss Guyana who sparked the most comments on the Platinum News site for listing Scuba diving as a hobby is reportedly a stand out for her personality and her ability to think on her feet and is reportedly among the more eloquent of the bunch.
On Monday the delegates toured the Virgin Gorda and on Tuesday they were part of live television interviews.
On Wednesday they toured Tortola then participate in the Queen’s Baton Relay activity at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. Yesterday the ladies attended the high school athletics meet, then they swim with the dolphins and visited the UP Cineplex. A Motorcade is carded for today followed by a reception to be held by the Governor and it is where the personal interviews will be done.
Contestants will compete in swimwear, costumes, talent, evening wear, and for the first time a question and answer segment.
Miss BVI according to the Platinum News report is confident that she will win the pageant as she has “ been preparing since in January, going to the gym, personal training and so on." Miss St. Lucia Glenda Kimberlyn Abbott at the function who like the other delegates are already enjoying the BVI, urged persons to come out and support the delegates as they display talent, intelligence and beauty.
Miss USA Meagan Small is a US-born Jamaican who is representing the Caribbean diaspora in the USA.
Miss Guyana Radix said the BVI is great and expressed love for the sand and water. Responding to questions about her love for scuba diving, Radix said that she does not scuba dive in Guyana, but has travelled to many countries such as Egypt, Thailand and the Margarita Islands where she does scuba diving.
Imarah who has advanced in scuba diving said “I have done five specialties in scuba diving. I do it while on vacation, I don´t scuba dive in Guyana,” the Platinum news quotes her as saying.
She said that she is prepared to put her best foot forward on tomorrow nigh and is feeling right at home with her Guyanese chaperon. She said reported that Guyanese residing in the BVI are very supportive and they are promising to attend the pageant in their numbers with Guyana flags to root for her.
The contestants were part of a photo shoot in the Virgin Gorda which Imarah dubs as one of several wonderful experiences she has had since arriving in the BVI.
She assures that she intends to do her best to represent Guyana and describes the other contestants as very friendly. Her roommate is Ms Anguilla and according to her “we are getting along very well…it’s as if we have known each other for years”.
Of the trip thus far Imarah said she’s really enjoying the culture and sights of the BVI while discovering ‘nature’s little secret’ and sharing the beauty and culture of Guyana with the contestants.
By: Mondale Smith
The year’s first official fashion event kicked off this past weekend at the Tower Hotel and GSB.com took front row seats at the auditions for stylist/ designer portfolio/ Guyana model search 2010 to give you exactly what went down. Things got started on time as expected and persons came out in their numbers representing almost all of the regions, the panel of judges included Pamela Dillon, Kirk Kimbridge, Vivian Dash, Richard Younge and former Miss Guyana Universe Meleesa Payne.The first two persons to hit the auditions floor for the modeling aspect of things were Dellon Renee and Jenelle Dougall, who both said it’s their very first time doing something in this arena and that they were both nervous and shy but noted, “yes it’s going to be a challenge one which their ready to take on.
The years first official fashion event seems to be in the brew already as our reporter took front row seats at the auditions for stylist/ designer portfolio/ Guyana model search and stumbled on a sight that will surely raise eyebrows and will defiantly be followed by a barrage of questions.
Although there were some new faces added to the regular crown. There were some faces that were not expected… seriously not expected, and for those who keep up to beat with “what’s happening” in the fashion industry, or entertainment as hole, we’re pretty sure your jaws would be dropping too.
As we spotted Michelle Cole’s current designer assistant, yep that’s right Michelle Cole’s assistant, not that alone was enough to raise brows and ask “what’s up now?”. What really steered our interest was the earlier auditioning of David Clarke, the former contestant of the 2008 hit series FACTS ( Fashion Arts and Creativity by Talented Students) and the later host and public relations officer of the shows 2009 edition. Sources close to Facts’N’Roses say that Mr. Clarke terminated his own employment as the company’s mash camp was in full swing and tensions began to run a bit too high.
When both Sydney Francois ( current designer assistant for Michelle Cole) and David Clarke were approached the both refused to make any comments about their current relationship with designing duo Michelle Cole and husband Trevor Rose, except that David Clarke is no longer employed by the couples company (Fasts’N’Roses).
Be sure to stay tuned for more on this and remember to support your favorite contestant in the competition.
View pictures below of some of the contestants.
Meet this week’s Hottie Guyanese born Sagittarius Rudiana Elicia Bunbury. Rudiana is of mixed race namely East Indian, African and Caucasian, she describes herself as a phenomenal young lady with high expectations in life.
GSB.com: What are your hobbies?
Rudiana: “My hobbies are Facebooking, modelling, meeting and interacting with new people and there's alot more but its too much to say.”
GSB.com: What are your favourite dishes?
Rudiana: “My favourite dish would be fried rice with sweet n' sour chicken and a vegetable salad on the side, with a glass of mauby.”
GSB.com: What are your life goals?
Rudiana: “My life goal is to be a computer engineer which I plan on getting a degree in, in a matter of 2-3 years.”
GSB.com: What do you hate the most?
Rudiana: “I hate fake and pretentious people and also people who behave idiotic. If you don’t have something sensible to say do yourself a favour and say NOTHING.”
GSB.com: Anything else you wanna add?
Rudiana: “I’m a girl who likes to be in the latest fashion, I love riding dirt bikes and i’m into cars. I like to hangout with friends, and PARTYING all the time! I’m fun to be around…quite frankly i’m out going.”
All roads lead to the National Park tonight for the Roots Fest international show that features Jamaican artiste Bushman and his band, as well as Guyana’s own First Born in concert.
The show was postponed to today upon the advice of Home Affairs Ministry officials. The promoters are promising that there will be no glitches as was the case with the last show hosted by another promoter.
Promoter Justin Leigh, called Roots Man, told this publication that “Everything is paid for and all is in place. People just need to come out and have a good time.”
The artiste, Bushman, and his full band were scheduled to arrive in Guyana last night and will today be making several promotional stops before performing tonight.
This is the first time that the Jamaican artiste Bushman will be performing Live in Guyana.
Tonight’s show is the first on the heels of the Mash Explosion that exploded when Baby Cham and Anthony B arrived in Guyana but did not perform. For the persons who bought tickets for the previous show date the promoter has assured that those tickets are still valid and are still on sale at the same locations.
Some of the proceeds from the show will be donated to the less fortunate children at several children’s homes.
This is the group’s first show with plans for at least two others for 2010.
By: Mondale Smith
On her quest to make Guyana proud, Sonia Neol recently had the opportunity to showcased some of designes at the Prestigious Ivy League University
Source: Walter Greene of Carib News, NY
Brown University, the prestigious Ivy League University where the Kennedy family attended in Rhode Island was abuzz with activities surrounding Caribbean Heritage Month. The Students of Caribbean Ancestry (SOCA) hosted the events that was highlighted by an oral presentation and fashion show by the premier Guyanese fashion designer MS SONIA NOEL, who is also the founder and CEO of Guyana Fashion Weekend.
This was the first time a Caribbean fashion designer was invited as the featured guest at this yearly event and Sonia took the opportunity to address students on the development of the Caribbean fashion brand and the promotion of Caribbean talent in general, be it fashion, performing arts and culture. Sonia spoke about the ethnic mix of the Guyana’s population and how each of their individual cultural background has blended into a Guyanese signature aesthetic. Using the backdrop of Guyana’s famous flora and fauna, mixed with the complexities of the six races that make up the Guyanese population, Sonia emphasized the uniqueness of the nation.
It was great to see so many students from Caribbean parents who were very proud to have Caribbean ancesters.one student came up and introduce herself as being Guyanese and ask where in Guyana she was from and she said her mother is Guyanese but she regard herself as one
At the close of her speech, the talented young designer presented excerpts from her current collection that was inspired by the Low Carbon Development Plan to preserve Guyana’s rain forest. This initiative is a main focus of the country’s President Hon. Bharrat Jagdeo. Sonia was able to fuse that idea with a sizzling resort collection that also celebrated the undergrowth of the rain forest. "I used shades of greens and browns to signify the earth and leaves of the rain forest. It was called the `Hybrid Collection’ and all the fabrics were natural fibers in linens and cottons, including the treasured Sea Island Cotton," said Sonia a few days after the presentation.
Yanely Espinal, president of the Students of Caribbean Ancestry (SOCA) and a third year student, Brown University noted: "I found out about Sonia Noel while researching for Caribbean fashions on line. I looked at some of her work and loved it. I contacted her and she was very polite and responsive. She was excited to work with University students to educate the greater college community about Caribbean issues. The show had a great impact at this University and everyone is still excited about the events. Working with Sonia was an amazing experience and I know that she will continue to succeed in the future because she has a great personality, she’s dedicated and extremely talented."
Sonia used all members of the students body to model her collection which was a big hit with students. Amanda Kautz, a second year student who was one of the models in the showcase said: "Sonia was not judgmental or critical of people’s bodies. She had designs for all different body types. That was very cool. People were really happy with what they were wearing. She was very flexible, and it was much appreciated and made us really like her." Fedna Jacquet, a second year student at Brown also praised Sonia for her work that was displayed: "I thought her collection was extremely diverse. It ranged from fun to sexy and sophisticated."
Sonia has a very hectic year ahead of her commencing with the Guyana Models Search Designers portfolio on the 20th&21 of march at the Tower Hotel.This year female models will be eligible from size 2 to 14.
A lingerie pageant with a difference
A new entertainment feature is about to unfold on the local shores and promoters are promising that it will be sizzling with sensuality and steamy, erotic, ‘static electricity’.
Dubbed a masterpiece by one of the coordinators, Alex Wayne, the ‘Miss Bootilicious 2010’ Pageant will showcase 12 curvaceous and truly appealing women who will storm the stage with raw, unbridled, provocative power on Saturday, March 27 when the official launch kicks off at the ‘Ice Sports Bar’ (formerly the Blue Iguana Nightclub), Fifth and Light Street, Albertown, Georgetown.
Showtime is 21:00 hrs (9 pm)
At the official launch the beauties who have dubbed themselves, ‘scorchingly pulsating’, will strut their stuff in the most breathtaking and mesmerizing lingerie ever seen before. That’s not all, these saucy ladies will also be performing stimulating choreography with six chiselled and rippled male models, who it is said, will leave the female audience drooling.
No forms of vulgarity or raw, sensual acts will be showcased at any interval during the pageant. The event is geared to allow the Guyanese woman to display her ‘ultra sexiness’ with great finesse, modesty and elegant style.
‘Miss Bootilicious 2010’ will entail elimination bouts and at the final segment to be hosted in May, 2010, the queen will walk away with a brand new Laptop and US$1000 and trophy, while her runner-up will cart off a Blackberry cellular phone, US$500 and a trophy. The third place finalist will take home a Digital Camera, US$200, and a trophy. All participants will however be awarded for their efforts.
At the March 27 segment three four unlucky ladies will eliminated, leaving eight beauties to face off at the next round against six new faces, this time five ladies will be dropped from the lot and the elimination process continues until the finals showdown in May month.
Full-figured and ‘ultra curvy’ are urged to participate since the pageant is geared to affirm the statement, ‘big girls can be sexy and beautiful’. Much excitement is centered on contestants like ‘Ghetto Fabulous Michelle’ whose platform is ‘Jungle Fever’, and of course the saucy beauty, ‘Sexy Jamie’. Hotties to look out for are, ‘Tantalizing Tenesha’, ‘Luscious Lashaun’, ‘Sizzling Stacy’, ‘Erotic Estaleen’ of Airy Hall, Mahaicony, ‘Tia the Thunderbolt’ and ‘Bootilicious Beena’.
The ultra sexy ‘Big Mommas’ who it is said will blaze a trail on show nite are ‘Volcanic Teshua’, ‘Boombastic Latoya’, and the ‘Trendsetter Trishell’.
This pageant will be taken to various parts of Guyana and persons interested in participating are urged to call phone number 622 1934. Corporate and individual sponsors can call this number to support any contestant they admire.
By: Mondale Smith
Mr Vegas, Fay-Ann Lyons to perform liveEnergy, hype and pulsating entertainment is always associated with performances from Jamaican Dancehall artist Mr Vegas and Trinidadian Soca performer Fay-Ann Lyons and nothing less is expected tonight from 22:00hrs at the Edge Nightclub at the Tower Hotel in Georgetown when they perform for the first time live the theme song for the 2010 T/20 cricket World Cup which starts in Guyana on April 30.
The two celebrated Caribbean entertainers have joined forces for the making of the up tempo Soca and Dancehall mix theme song and the pair has promised an energized performance tonight at the official launching of the song in Guyana.
The Edge, Guyana’s latest and most modern nightclub has a capacity of 400 and tickets for tonight’s show is $2,500.
Accompanied by her musician husband Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, a three-time Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Road March champion (2003, 2008, 2009) who won the 2009 International Soca Monarch title while pregnant, explained the concept of the ‘Bring it’ song at a press conference yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium.
With hit songs like Lyon Empress, Mane the Matriach and Silver Surfer, the 30-year-old Fay-Ann said some feel that the ‘fete’ atmosphere at sports is not necessary but explained that she felt is was needed since Caribbean people are not passive people.
“The party atmosphere does not take away from the professionalism of the players and could actually inspire them because of the manner in which we celebrate,” Fay-Ann said.
Also present at the Stadium yesterday was 35-year-old Clifford Smith, know in the music industry as Mr Vegas after being given that nickname by his schoolyard football-mates, who thought that he kicked the ball like a Las Vegas dancer.
Rhonda Kelly, of Kelly/Holdings Limited, has been contracted to coordinate the activities of the artists for the first ever T/20 World Cup in the West Indies. She was also present yesterday.
Mr Vegas, who was hit in the face with a crowbar and had his jaw wired shut for six weeks after a scuffle over stolen master tapes, found fame in 1998 with hits such as Yu Sure, Jack It Up, and Latest News.
Mr Vegas informed that the ‘Bring it’ song, which was mainly written by USA based Jamaican Marlon Chin and developed by Fay-Ann and Mr Vegas, is all about bringing the positives to the matches.
‘The ICC wanted the energy … when they approached us they wanted to attract the youths. It’s not like when I was a youth. Back then you said cricket and everyone would tell you about the match they watched the night before. Now many of the youths don’t have that interest for cricket which is still the national sport of the West Indies. You talk about West Indies cricket now and many youths can tell you who Manchester United beat in football,” Mr Vegas explained.
Kelly disclosed that the ICC brought the concept of the song to the singers and they finished off the writing of the lyrics which was started by Chin.
Fay-Ann says the song encourages the entire family to come out to support the West Indies team and celebrate being Caribbean people. She songbird said the song is not only a party song but it is also very informative.
Both artists said they were honored to have been chosen to perform the theme song for the world event.
“I remember growing up and listening to cricket on the radio without even seeing the match and feeling if I was there. I remember Dujon and Richards batting and now to be actually involved in helping to inspire our present players with this song is humongous,” Mr Vegas said.
Both entertainers said they hoped they could create the right vibes at the venues to entertain the fans and motivate the players.
Bunji Garlin said he was here to not only support Fay-Ann as his wife and Mr Vegas as his ‘brethren’ but as someone who is proud to be a West Indian.
The singers and Kelly visited Antigua, Jamaica and Trinidad before coming here but tonight will be the very first time that the duo will be performing their riveting rendition since they did not perform in the three Islands they visited.
Guyana is also the first host venue that the singers are visiting and they are scheduled to tour the Islands which will also host matches (Barbados & St Lucia) before going to St Kitts which will host matches in the Womens division of the T/20 World Cup.
Sabrina Panday, who runs the Guyana ICC T/20 secretariat, said that the concept for the song was born after what transpired during the 2007 World Cup hosted by the West Indies.
“There were so many restrictions …some many thing you could not bring….it took away a lot from the atmosphere of West Indian cricket. This T/20 World Cup is a lot more relaxed without compromising security and the fans are being encouraged to bring it, the drums, the horns, the noise, the fun. The song also urges the West Indies players to bring their best game,” Panday said.
Mr Vegas said it’s all about bringing the positives and the energy while Fay-Ann said the ticket prices should encourage the fans to bring their friends in large numbers since the atmosphere, the rhythm section in the party stand, the fun and frolic and what should be enterprising cricket should all combine to create what should be an unforgettable event.
Story courtesy of Sean Devers
“Yah know that I’m back, pun de attack, they try to make me drop, but I’m solid as a rock…as a matter of fact Satan get drop”
The words of one of the very infectious hooks set to dancehall vibes on a new 12-track gospel laced dance hall/ reggae album from Bartician David Yasin aka Solid Youth.
The third such album to date in his musical career, this album new one produced in Jamaica is now available at Gift Land office Max with plans for expansion to other record stores and judging from rave reviews and sales in Florida it must be really and inspirational on another front.
“I launched it in Florida with a concert and people really liked the songs so much so that the bought a whole lot of the original CD.”
The produced and released recently that features songs such as ‘UR Gonna Make it’, ‘Love is the Key’, ‘Krazy,’ ‘Rise up’, ‘Saints’, ‘lively up yah self’, ‘I’m not ashamed’ and ‘I’m back’.
The married youth first tried out the songs on an album launch tour in parts of the USA he will be among the performers at the Youth Explosion carded for March 27 at the National Cultural Centre where persons can pick up an original copy too.
The album also has combination songs with Jamaican artistes Zeela Mac and St. Matthew such as ‘Come unto me’, ‘I worship U’ and ‘Christ Representa.’
Among the inspirational tracks is one that serves to uplift the down trodden stating that “You are gonna make it…you are gonna live and not die…all you gotta do is pray and Jah will make a way.”
Addressing world issues the album also features the universal anthem that ‘Love is the key, we are one family’, but closer to home the artiste amidst his gospel centred up bringing in Bartica he too recalls the dreaded morning that is forever etched in the minds of Guyanese when death stalked First Avenue Bartica and the other unfolding of slaughter in Lusignan.
He sings “Rise up this morning and turn my TV on, only to find out 11 more gone…this is not the time to argue and fight lets all unite… we’ve got our indifferences but we can sit down and talk about this…love is the key open up your eyes and see.’
The Guyanese artiste who is resolute in his praises to God and his unwavering love for Jesus Christ for his talent recently returned from the USA and is aiming to take Guyanese music positively to the highest dancehall level.
Proof that dancehall has no face or ethnic bias, Solid Youth of East Indian ancestry says he aims to prove that young men are not all negative and hopes that his music will inspire those who have stumbled to come up higher in Christ for positive and productive living.
Singing since age 15, Solid Youth became popular for his take on teen sex when he sang “Get it in yah head abstinence…stop talk ignorance, no wed no bed,” a message that sharply contrasted all talk of condom use and early sexual activity as opposed to marriage.”
His parents are pastors and as such he played drums in his home church but had his fair share of lashes and suspension for grabbing more attention due to his chanting of popular dance hall lyrics during school hours.
Then as he said, “I realised that I was always embarrassing my parents and decided to make a change. Now I have no regrets and the sky is the limit to what I can have.”
His first album was recorded at Kingdom Friends in Guyana and launched in 2004 with a theme of Spiritual warfare. Then came ‘Judgement day’ produced in Trinidad with Sherwin Gardner at Flow-master records.
His memorable songs from those include: we nah believe in safer sex and ‘abstinence’ which was followed by a video.
How did this artiste end up in Jamaica? He said he met and established a communications network with St Mathew an international gospel artiste and he eventually winged out to Jamaica.
The recordings were completed in just about two weeks and he also completed a music video for the song ‘I’m back’ which he is also releasing to all television stations locally.
Prior to this album launch, he has performed in several states in the USA at various Christian functions as well as in the Caribbean. Of this new album the artiste said he believes that this is the best thus far in his career.
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Mondale Smith
Well entertainment lovers, even as the international show promoters are being watched by the authorities for substandard promotions, looks like TV is about to have another entertainment Love child.
Yes folks there are two entertainment personalities with child and one is a Miss, but that’s not our focus here.
We hearing through the grapevine that the people who own Brutal Tracks and Brutal Jammers as well as Swansea are about to enter the television industry through a partnership with a locally owned television station.
And that they have partnered with a local television station to bring Guyana more entertainment TV time with much more variety than is currently being dished. and no it’s not HJTv 72, it’s Brutal TV !!!
And the best part is we are also hearing that the television station that has been off the air for a while after nature took it's course is about to make a come back with improved range and programming with a main focus on entertainment and local content, we think you guys should have an idea which station we're talking bout by now.
Well it looks like a certain television station gonna have to put in some overtime to keep their viewers.
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Mondale Smith
Meet GtShowBiz.com’s Hottie of the Week the very beautiful Libra-born Lotoya Maraj.
GSB.com: What are your hobbies?
Lotoya Maraj: “As a child I always admired models and today one of my hobbies would be modelling. I also have a weakness for helping the less fortunate so I volunteer at the drop in centre as often as I could. Besides that I just love being around my friends, partying and having fun!”
GSB.com: What are your favourite dishes?
Lotoya Maraj: “My favourite dish is dhal and rice *lol* I guess I got that from my Indian ancestry.”
GSB.com: What is your goal in life?
Lotoya Maraj: “Because I have too many options, I prefer not to settle on a career but ultimately my goal would be to have a successful life with a job i enjoy dong everyday and a family that brings out the best in me!”
GSB.com: So Lotoya tell us, what do you hate the most?
Lotoya Maraj: “I can’t say I hate, but more dislike fake people and those that hurt me or people I care about.”
GSB.com: Any other thing about yourself you would like to add?
Lotoya Maraj: “For those who know me they would often tell you I put a smile on their faces and many judge me before knowing me.”
Known for pushing the envelope and treating their fans to new and mind blowing performances that wow their audience every time, As their about to celebrate ten years of dance Clive Prowell and the Classique Dance Company is set to make the National Cultural Centre stage very very scandalous come April 16th and 17th 2010.
Director Clive Prowell, told us here at GtShowBiz.com that there will be lots of shockers come show time and it will be unlike anything they’ve ever done before. The performances will keep people at the edge of their seats and will definitely leave them wanting more. The first half of the show will feature a piece out of Lion King, which he said will be reinvented not the traditional stuff you normally see, the second half gets more technical a Hollywood meets Broadway something.
He has also hinted that there will be some daring an provocative scenes.
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The songs are Groovy Soca-styled. ‘The Caribbean Wine’ is a humorous way of describing the gyrations of persons of various body types and there is also a shame face wine being portrayed by the X-Factor dance group and members of the Trendsetters Sounds.
‘Inside the party’ is specifically for people who have not gone to a party in a long time and possibly will meet that special someone. The videos filmed in Guyana at the Umbrella resort were produced by the Gathering of the People Television Productions.
Passion is currently more focussed on producing his tracks, opting out of this year’s soca monarch competition and as a result he’s also hoping to help other perspective artistes who want to get their music produced but can’t afford it. He’s also in the business of writing songs for artistes.
To date passion has 21 songs fully recorded to his name and some are still to be released. He has also launched an album titled ‘Flavour of the Caribbean’ that featured production work from Kingdom Friends’, Kross Kolor Records, Dynamics and Platinum studios.
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Mondale Smith
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Winning the Carib soca Monarch $1Million first prize has greatly improved life for father of two, Orlando Joashashen and his family.
The Berbician who now resides in Parika is a Forest Ranger by profession and has been in the competition for several years. He had won the best newcomer prize when he first entered several years ago but this time around took the lions share. He said the monies would be used to complete the construction of his home at Tempie village.
Aged 29, the artiste called ‘Bones man’ says too that he is preparing for the Soca monarch 2011 title in Trinidad and Tobago as a Guyanese ambassador, and on that occasion he will be “coming 10,000 strong”.
He also sounded a warning to prospective Soca monarch contender that he will be defending his title with dynamism for the 2011 local competition.
Bones man also extended gratitude to his producer and mixer Burchmore Simon of the Kross Kolor records and explained that his winning formula was to focus on highlighting the festival that sets Guyana apart from the other countries.
Second and third place finishers Melissa Vanilla Roberts and Beverly Williams also collected their cheques for $500,000 and $250,000 respectively. Roberts also collected her $50,000 cheque for being the adjudged the most voted for artiste in the competition.
The national prize giving ceremony is set for this weekend at the Umana Yana.
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Mondale Smith
While there is no sure word on whether Guyana will be having an Accolade Music Awards of Guyana this year -- it looks like an international group is set to honour stake holders in the industry shortly.
For the first time in its short history, on Sunday April 25, the Guyana Artistic Music Awards (GAMA) is set to be staged at the National Cultural Centre to honour not just locally based artistes but Guyanese entertainers from 14 territories in the Diaspora.
The promoter is the ‘Guyanese Canadian Artistic Enterprise’ company based in Toronto Canada and is headed by promoter Sherlock Shepherd. Working alongside is co founders Randolph Waterman CEO of “Randolph’s Building & Renovation Company”, Elton Joseph CEO of “Nortel Upholstery” and Andrew Francis CEO of "Ark Plumbing Inc.”
GCAE has promoted annual boat rides, concerts and dances during the Caribana Celebrations every summer since 2002. The company also promotes various events during the year featuring Guyanese and other Artists from Canada and around the world.
The last GAMA was staged in Toronto Canada in 2008. It was organised by GCAE in collaboration with “Massive Bunch Entertainment”.
It is being staged in Guyana this time around because the promoters have expressed the belief that Guyanese music has made commendable strides.
The Guyana Artistic Music Awards (GAMA) of Canada is an annual community event created to promote and recognize Guyanese talent internationally. It will feature 29 Guyanese acts spanning 14 countries on stage entertaining. Some of the lot will receiving awards in various categories.
Among those listed to be honoured are Lionel Abel, Mark Bryan, Otis Holder, Dave Martins, Sammy Baksh, Sash Persaud, Tony Ricardo, Ivor Lynch, Kenny Lawrence, Phil ‘Bumpy’ Dino and Patrick ‘Patto’ Gonsalves.
Originally, the event was to have been two-fold but Shepherd said that after discussions with senior authorities locally, he was advised not to stage two back to back shows. The other is the Guyana Reggae Sunsplash.
“We are aiming to create a product that can become a marketing tool for the tourism industry while aiding in creating a Guyanese cultural identity that is on par with the international musical requirements, Shepherd said.
The promoter is of the belief that the awards to be staged annually would encourage artistes to up their game and work towards bettering their musical and entertainment offerings.
That Sunsplash is carded for April 17 as a prelude to the awards so that locals can experience live performances from Guyanese musicians who are doing their thing for Guyana in other countries.
The GUYANA REGGAE SUNSPLASH is carded for the NATIONAL PARK.
Some of the nominees resident in Guyana include Shelly G, Tennicia Defreitas, Jumo, Adrian Dutchin, Timeka Marshall, Mariam Williams, Jory Hector, Melissa Vanilla Roberts, Bones Man, Kester D, JB, Big Red, Alabama, Cid Hooper, Young Bill Rogers, and Cliff Davis. The nominees residing in France include Ras McBean and Colin I and the England based artistes include Joe Tex.
The Jamaican based nominees are Imykal, Fire Juice and Major Joe B, while the USA artistes include Zebulan, Kapa Shanti, Prakz, H20, Redemption and Yonette Hooper. From Canada the nominees include Telescope, Donna Makeda, Prince Ally, Cyborg, Mandela and Daddy Rusty.
There is also an editor’s award that will cover the media for best print, television, radio and Internet personalities.
The organisers say they will be consulting with the Ministries of Culture and Tourism to endorse the Awards and to get the relevant support.
Local sponsors listed for the event thus far include Carib Beer, Wireless Connections; White Castle Fish Shop, FCE Systems; American Exchange Barbers, Colours, Lenscraft optical, Aubrey James Video productions amongst others.
They are awaiting confirmation from the telephone service providers of Guyana among other corporate entities.
According to Shepherd the local event will be a Red Carpet affair at the National Cultural Centre with a Cocktail Event to follow. The list of artistes that number more than 15 for honorary awards will be announced later but this publication understands that Barbados based international artistes Eddy Grant will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award wile Jamaica based Natural Black should take home the International Music Ambassador Award.
Why GAMA?
When asked why such an event given that Guyana has its Accolade awards the organisers said the GAMA of Canada started around the same time that the Accolade Awards started without any prior knowledge about the Accolade Awards.
GAMA was created after the President and other members of GCAE realized that many Guyanese artists living abroad had made tremendous strides in the Entertainment Industry and so decided to create this event to award and honour these artistes. The difference with the GAMA of Canada and the Accolade Awards is that GAMA honours Guyanese artistes worldwide while the Accolade Awards only honours mostly Guyanese artistes in Guyana.
“After presenting the first GAMA in Toronto Canada, we realized that we were only connecting with Guyanese artistes in Canada and USA, when there were Guyanese artistes all over the world in many different countries making their mark on the Entertainment scene and so we decided to include Guyanese artistes from other countries”.
The GCAE decided that Guyana was the fittest place to stage the present Awards show because it is strictly a Guyanese Awards show and they wanted to honour not only the Guyanese artistes living abroad but also those living in Guyana. “We know that everyone cannot travel to Canada and hence the decision to stage the event in Guyana was decided upon.
Some of the international sponsors are ARK'S plumbing Inc, De Castro & De Castro Construction Co, Channaman’s Restaurant, First-Class Printing, Calypso Hut, Tennessee International, Freight Inc, All Natural Beauty Supply Product, Randolph Cuilding and Construction and Titan Tours Airlines.
As model Chanel Clark pictured above displays that plus-sized models can be hot too and, the Guyana Model Search team is ready to open doors for you big curvy women in Guyana.
The new season of Guyana Model Search is set to kick off soon. A press release coming from the camp stated that this season will indeed be bigger and better for all.
The Guyana Models Search takes a new slant this year. The audition will be open to plus- size women up to size 14 this year.
The plus-size industry is certainly gaining momentum especially with spokeswoman like the beautiful queen Latifah and Monique. Sharon Quin who heated up the runway for the first GFW is branded the original runway diva.
She is one plus size model with lots of attitude and in that regard confessing that plus size is reality.
One of the objectives of this move for the Guyana Model Search is to highlight that fashion is for all body types and sizes and you can be seen as sexy and sophisticated.
The committee this year is more focussed on harnessing talent and imaging society’s youths to think positive.
The audition will be on March 20 and March 21 at the Tower Hotel for designers, stylists and male and female models. Designers/stylist are from 2to 3 pm and models from 3 to 5pm.
All models need to walk with a full and half size picture and female models are require to walk with heals.
The committee is reporting that it has contacts with two plus size agencies in New York and Trinidad that are very interested in scouting. The six-week TV show will be aired on HJTV72 and NCN.
Last year’s winners, Jermaine Victor and Yolanda Kerr, just completed an exciting photo shoot for the next cover of Apsara magazine and are getting ready to rip the runway for Trinidad and Tobago fashion weekend in May.
Meet GSB.com’s Hottie of the Week Twacy Chan. This Leo-Born attends St. Roses High School and is repping the Dunnas Crew!
GSB.com: What are your hobbies?
Twacy Chan: “Okay, so I like water sports, but I really don't know how to swim, (laughs), true! But by the grace of God I shall learn soon enough. I also like travelling, actually i'm going to Suriname on a school trip for communication studies. I love listening to music, i’m a fan of Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Paramore, and not forgetting my oldies Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, Ben E. King and others. Oh gosh i really love music and singing yup that’s that. Next question (laughs)”. She certainly has taste.
GSB.com: What are your favourite dishes?
Twacy Chan: “I really love hassa curry. Actually anything curried prawns, duck, shrimp yeah that works. I love pepperpot and cassava bread (giggles). I think I'm forgetting something, something real important (laughs). Oh gosh yes, baked chicken and macaroni with salad and fried rice! (laughs). Oh and I could drink a good passion fruit juice, I like fried rice from Seiko by the way, jus thought you should know”.
GSB.com: What is your goal in life?
Twacy Chan: “My goal is to be the BEST ME I could ever be. I hope to become a lawyer and a great mother of two” (smiles).
GSB.com: So Twacy tell us, what do you hate the most?
Twacy Chan: “I just hate it when people make promises and don’t fulfil them and when they belittle themselves like saying "I can't", now that's weak”.
As she continues her quest to take her talent to the international music mainstream Timeka Marshall, age 21 is back home for a short spell from the Land of wood and reggae and is not wasting time.
After releasing the inspirational ‘One more day’ single late last year Marshall shot her first locally produced video to add to her four hot singles.
She has also done cameo performances in Peter Morgan’s Golden brown and Peter Ram’s tight videos.
This video will be her fifth in addition to the hits ‘All night’, ‘Hush,’ Feel fah’ and ‘Separate.”
Timeka said, “This song is inspirational and goes beyond the regular communication with the creator where you move beyond asking for money and riches and goes into the very important ‘one more day.’
She said, “In life we often pray for success, money and riches and forget that you only need to ask for health and strength and spiritual direction”.
The song, she says, was written after her friend’s mother was diagnosed with a terminal illness.
I put myself in her shoes and from watching her battle for life I have even more appreciation for the things we take for granted.
She said, “Sometimes when people are going through tough times all they can ask God for is one more day”.
Like we promised, EXCLUSIVE behind the scenes photos of Timeka's New Music Video. Pop the link to see more pix: http://www.facebook.com/pages/GtShowBizcom/270200010692?v=photos#!/album.php?aid=398386&id=270200010692
Black Rhyno fans are advised to gear up for some live performances from the artistes in Club Cloud Nine before month end.
Black Rhyno, the most recent defector from the Portmore Empire, is headed Guyana’s way on March 20 for a show and party titled Pon Da Bike Back. The show is being promoted by Ruff Kutt entertainment and Television entertainment show headed by Neil Cadogan aka Cody.
Cody said the show is part of an ongoing monthly club party that features international artistes as fairly new concept to Guyana.
The first artiste to perform at an event of such a nature was Lisa Hype who was in Guyana on February 23.
Cody said the show was a huge success hence the continuation. Black has hits like Bike Back, Engine Oil, Move It and many more.
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Mondale Smith
Chung, 21, an engineer with British Telecoms, was born in Hunter Street, Albouystown in Georgetown, but also lived at Silver Hill, attending the Watooka Primary School in Linden.
He left Guyana for England in 2000 and pursued studies in the field of telecommunications. He joined British Telecoms.
So how did he end up being part of the Mr World competition? He saw an advertisement on the Miss Guyana World website asking for a competition called “Mr Internet Guyana” and he decided to send in his photo.
Sure enough, he received the most votes and was offered the opportunity to take part in the biggest male model showcase in the world and he jumped at the opportunity.
He had a few gigs in front of the camera before, and feels sure that he can live up to the demands of the competition, even if he is a bit nervous about it.
If you are one of those trying to figure out Chung’s ethnicity – forget about it! Let’s just say he is “mixed.”
The Mr World competition is slated for March 27 in Korea, and is celebrated as an exhibition of adventure, sport and style, is run by the Miss World organisation.
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Mondale Smith
