"Brawling" and "Ghetto Fabulous" describe Jenel Cox

Adapted from the Scene is the following article featuring Ms. Guyana Universe 2009, Jenel Cox.

The new Miss Guyana Universe is no wallflower. She is perhaps the most self-confident holder of the title in recent times, a quality that she will certainly need in the Bahamas next month.

Straightened hair and bangs framed her face lending it a sort of oriental look as the newly-crowned Miss Guyana Universe, Jenel Cox, moved about the Exclusive Studios on Wednesday afternoon saying that she intends to put her best foot forward and make Guyana proud.

“Talk, I’m listening,” she said smiling as she continued to gather clothes and other items; moving rhythmically about the small photo studio.

Her face was still carefully made up; she had just changed into a simple dress and was getting ready to go home. Asked how her day was, she look taken aback for a few seconds before smoothly responding that it was hectic and exciting.

“I just finished my first photo shoot as Miss Guyana Universe,” the confident and bubbly Jenel chatted to The Scene. “My day has been hectic and exciting… very long as well but I’m enjoying it all.”

Winning the pageant was very important to her, Jenel said, because “it makes no sense entering a competition if you don’t want to win”. Jenel, a former Miss Guyana Talented Teen and second runner-up in Guyana’s Next Top Model, said she was excited last Saturday when she was crowned.

“I did it because I wanted to do it. I did it for me,” she stated. “Preparation is the most important thing behind success and definitely, if you want something bad enough it’s not so hard to achieve that goal.”

Jenel, a former St Stanislaus College student, will represent Guyana at the Miss Universe Pageant in the Bahamas on August 23. The young woman is “positively hopeful” that she will do Guyana proud.

“I never imagined myself here. I didn’t think I’d make it…but I guess I outshone the other girls,” she said. “I intend to put my best foot forward and make Guyana proud.”

Toning & criticism

“I have to work on toning and weight training,” Jenel immediately responded when asked what deficiencies she and her trainers will be tackling until August.

Jenel told The Scene that she has the face, the personality, the intelligence and she just needs to do a little work on her body. “Sassy and sexy” is how she described her on-stage personality and stressed that personality is what pageantry is all about.

“Pageantry is all about personality, how well you can fit in and manoeuvre,” she said.

Criticism, the young woman said, is a natural motivator for her and she believes that she reacts “fairly well” to it. Asked whether she thought her diction and posture needed some work, the beauty queen said those areas were her “strong points”. She believes that she is ready for the international stage and is hoping that her confidence will take her a long way.

When told that words like “brawling” and “ghetto fabulous” have been used to describe her, Jenel said that she knows when she needs to act professional. She explained that she isn’t the sort of person who behaves snobbish. Different situations, she said, requires varying levels of formality.

“The more people criticize me, the more I want to work hard and prove them wrong,” Jenel said firmly.

Without blinking an eye she admitted that “a little loud” and “enthusiastic” is who she is. The very qualities that bring criticism knocking at her door, she stated, are the important characteristics that add to the personality that captured the judges last Saturday.

“If I’m a little loud and down to earth,” she said, “that’s who Jenel Cox is. I love who I am and I’m not afraid to show it.”

Sassy, sexy and confident are definitely adjectives that can be allotted to Jenel. She’s beautiful, has a quick, intelligent mind that will one day attack criminal law, but she has something else. Jenel, like a breath of fresh air, brings her honesty and transparency to the stage.

Rumor has it that Ms. Cox is not studying law as stated by her in the intelligent segment and furthermore, there is much controversy regarding the fact that a supposed lawyer in the making supports the proposal on shooting criminals "dead" if they attempt to escape prison. Maybe Jenel did now use that quick intelligent mind of hers as The Scene describes her, in the intelligent segment, for what she has said has left her as a laughing stock. Also, for someone who is knowledgeable about Marine/ biodiversity conservation would recognise that what Ms. Cox conveyed at the intelligent segment made completely no sense at all. She basically "crammed" a whole lot of information she gathered from different sources and in responding to the questions posed to her, she delivered by regurgitating all that she would have read without actually structuring her response in answering the question but rather, hoping that based on the information she was stating, that just perhaps she would have answered the question. Moreover, to even be considered at the Miss Universe Pageant, you need to be atleast 5 ft 4, which I don't doubt she isnt, but thats not the only criteria. You must also be drop dead gorgeous and Ms. Cox is certainly not close to being gorgeous. As she puts it, pageantry is all about personality. Let's hope she has the world of personality to wow the judges in the Bahamas. However, if we all remember correctly, Ms. Cox is way too over confident and although her confidence is one thing to admire, she has too much of it. Let's also hope that she doesnt carry Guyana to the international stage and then "pull a drama queen" and collapse on stage during the live broadcast as she did at the Guyana Next Top Model Competition.
Ms. Cox does not have anything I would consider is Miss Universe Quality. She is snobbish, self-centered, ghetto, brawling, and the list goes on. Maybe she will change her habits now that she has responsibility and now that a close eye will be placed on her at every slip up she makes. She needs to work on lots more than just her weight and tone. She needs to BURN any sexy and sassy photos that might be circulating around with her because it would be embarrassing for her to have the same thing happen as did Miss California after semi-nude pictures surfaced of her.
If you have any further comments on this topic please feel free to share. The purpose here is not to negatively criticize Ms Cox but rather to thoroughly evaluate her. Point out her strengths and weaknesses and hopefully she can use the advice and enhance her strengths and work on her weaknesses.

FACTS 3 FINAL FACE OFF TODAY !

After weeks of intense competition, the third season of FACTS (Fashion, Arts, and Creativity by Talented Students) is set for the Final Face Off come July 9th at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. What started as a means to organize artistic projects in a competitive environment for students to showcase their individual talents and business acumen has certainly evolved over the years since its creation back in 2003 by Designer Michelle Cole Rose and Natasha Martindale. Speaking with Michelle Cole recently, she conveyed that over the years FACTS has provided a creative space for talented students to fully express their artistic identity. As such, it brings together experienced artists and their younger counterparts to create a new Caribbean centered artistic explosion in the region and beyond. She also noted that FACTS began as a fashion competition to expose students to the fashion industry, not only the glitz and glamour on the runway but the backstage and back office essentials. In 2005, building on the success of the first competition we witnessed an expansion of the first competition into a full blown fashion reality show, which added situational decision making that went beyond the talent and business with situations faced by designers on a daily basis.
This year’s finale is indeed one not to miss. After heated competition during the semifinals of FACTS 3- fashion house at the Umana Yana on the 13th of June, six spokes-models and six student designers earned themselves a spot in the Final Face Off, with Clinton Duncan and student model Anaisa Lewis copping top honors with the spectacular costume design and display. However, come the 9th July, patrons can expect the unexpected says student designer Randy Madray. He also added that those attending should also expect a high level of coordination and a high quality range of displays. In a recent interview with this years student designers most of the young designers expressed that their greatest challenges in FACTS 3 ranged from balancing the competition with exams to overcoming their fear and nervousness of being on camera. Nevertheless, these young, upcoming talented designers all agreed that their participation in FACTS 3 has certainly impacted their lives significantly. The competition was no smooth road but rather one that allowed each individual to recognize his/her strengths and weaknesses and thus aid in overcoming those weaknesses and enhancing their strengths. They each possessed their own unique fashion philosophies as well as the messages they sent out in their designs.
“Participating in Facts 3 has widened my creativity; I have been exposed to a more technical aspect of fashion designing” says Clinton Duncan. Certainly, we can expect to hear and see lots more from these young designers even after FACTS 3, since with the passion for creativity running through the veins of these young artists, the sky is indeed the limit. .“I do plan on furthering my potential after the completion of FACTS 3. I want to go to a very good fashion school and also pursue sculpturing and craft. I eventually want to open a company to accumulate all aspects of fashion, including accessories, sculpture and craft. My aim is to get those hard talented persons off the streets and promote Guyanese craft around the world” says sixteen year old Randy Madray. This years’ competition has seen a balance among the males and females competing to design the most outstanding piece of garment for each task. When questioned about where these designers acquire their inspiration from, sixteen year old Chennay Wong expressed that her inspiration comes from within. She also stated that most of her designs are made for working, independent women, and her mother would have also inspired some of those designs. Cindy Legal, another outstanding young designer in this competition believes that her inspiration can come from almost anything. With regards to her fashion philosophy Ms. Legal stated that “clothing must be comfortable, good looking and must carry a piece of me of course.”
Facts 3 this year is indeed full of amazing talent and while voting for your favourites has started on http://www.factsshpere.com/ each contestant wishes to urge the public to come out and support them at the Final Face Off. Sixteen year of Candacy Mc Lean in a recent interview had this to say “The public should support me because I want to make a difference in the fashion industry and because I am a determined person.
For the finale this year, the student designers were given the task of creating three outfits each given total artistic freedom to create fashion from their interpretation of what they see it to be, from ready to wear pieces to even couture which is promised to wow the audience. The student designers will also create a compulsory outfit under the theme "A FOREVER GREEN GUYANA” which they will work on with their student model in order to create the outfit that is most environmentally friendly which the student model will have to present at the FACE OFF. Apart from the student designers display at this years finale, those attending will also be dazzled by student designer FACTS 2 winner Sharda Eligon who will be presenting her 2009 swim wear collection. Other attractions at this year Final Face OFF will be proformaces by Guyana’s very own Malo, Big Red, Shelly G and FOJO.
Show time for FACTS 3 final Face off is 7 PM and tickets are $1000 EACH which are now available at Cell Phone Shack, Guinness Bar, Nigels Super Market and Changing Room. VIP tickets can also be obtained from Facts'N'Roses office at 43 Garnette street campbellville.Student models in the final face off are
Seroomanie Loaknauth, Nikisha DeAbreu,Mikhail Amsterdam, Jana Stewart, Inessa Clementson, Anaisa Lewis
Student Designers in the final face off are
Randy Madray, Mwanza Glenn, Clinton Duncan, Cindy Legal,Chennay Wong, Candacy Mc Lean

Andrew Harris Mens Wear "DARE TO BE BOLD"...

Guyanese Mens Wear Designer Andrew Harris who also is the 2008 Young Designer of the Year after copping the designer portfolio title during the Carifesta X celebrations has been creating heatwaves in Barbados and other Caribbean islands recently. He officially launched his 2009 casual Collection at the Bmex Internationals Trade Fair in Barbados being one of the most applauded designers among the stellar line-up that had presented, he also recently show that same collection with a few additions at St.Vincent major fashion event Carnival Catwalk. Currently Andrew is back in Barbados where he now resides preparing for Guyana Fashion Weekend in august. The Andrew Harris Men's Wear Label features men pieces that are unique and innovative which embodies masculinity on every designs and relevant to every lifestyle. The designs are inspired by nature fused with European cuts and contemporary styles which are made from Italian linen, Cotton, Drill, Sheer and Scotch Gad.Bold paintings and macrame knots are trade marks of the AHMW clothing that are complemented with one of a kind hand crafted men's bags and accessories made from leather,Burlap,Mango Wood, copper and Beads all accentuated with an acrylic finish.

Since showing at Bmex Fashion Showcase Andrew clientele has boosted, landing him the opportunity to design for The Prime Minister of Barbados Hon. David Thompson other Government Officials, Lawyers among other business men, he also recently was contracted to dress one of the Caribbean leading Soca Band "Krosfoya" to preform at one of their crop over event. Soon person will be able to find his clothing in Bridgetown Barbados at Prasix Mens Store. His advice to the contestant in this year designers portfolio is "set goals,learn all you can from Richard Young and Sonia Noel,Don't get caught up with the glitz and glamour and put God first.

Hollywood Actress is Guyana Fashion Weekend 2009 Spokesperson

Fashion designer Sonia Noel, who is also the founder/CEO of Guyana Fashion Weekend has announced that Hollywood actress, Anna Maria Horsford has been named as a spokesperson of Guyana Fashion Weekend. Now celebrating its third anniversary, Guyana Fashion Weekend (GFW) 2009 is scheduled for August 29 - 30 at Buddy's International Hotel. This year's extravaganza will feature a cadre' of Guyana's most talented fashion designers as well as special guest designers from theU.S. and the Caribbean region.

"We are so pleased to have Anna Maria Horsford as our spokesperson. Since her presence last year for CFW, she has single handedly touted our efforts and has given GFW and Guyana maximum exposure," noted Sonia Noel who confirmed that the actress will once again be in Guyana for GFW 2009.

In addition, other surpriae celebrity fashion guests are expected to be present for Guyana Fashion Weekend. In response to her CFW Spokesperson status Miss Horsford said: "No one will argue that Guyana is a wealthy country. Many might base this fact on the gold or diamond mines, or the majestic waters of the KaieteurFalls and the unspoilt Rain Forest. But I assure you, what I would place on the top of the list is the Guyanese hospitality. After spending a week in this country for its second annual Guyana Fashion Weekend, I was blown into the hearts of its people. Designers came from Jamaica, Trinidad, Antigua, the British VirginIslands and the U.S.A., as well as a pool of local artiste to showcase their amazing creations. What impressed me most, was the creativity andrange of craftsmen - from 16 year-old twins to women who have beendesigning for more than 20 years. The level of professionalism from the models and the designers was higher than I expected. This was truly a gem in South America. I am honored to be asked to be the Spokespersonfor Guyana Fashion Weekend 2009."
Born in New York City to parents from the Dominican Republic and Antigua, Anna has appeared in over 60 movies and television shows. Afew of her more popular roles included that of Thelma Frye on the TV sitcom`Amen' and -the guard Dee in `The Wynans Brothers' Television show. She is in the process of developing an artiste community in upstate New York and continuing to expand on her growing jewelry line which she debut atGuyana Fashion Weekend last year.

Tight Competition for Miss Guyana Universe 2009

The Miss Guyana Universe pageant ‘The Quest’ returns this year with a few changes. The committee, for instance, appears to be smaller, consisting it would seem of only franchise holder Odinga Lumumba, his wife Nicolette Lumumba and former Miss Guyana World official and designer Derek Moore.
The list of candidates who will vie from the crown is more diverse with contestants coming from East Coast, East Bank, West Coast and West Bank Demerara, Rupununi and Corentyne, Berbice rather than predominantly from Georgetown. The committee also appears to have made a concerted effort to mix beauty with brains, culling contestants who have had some tertiary education; at least one of them holds a degree. The pageant was last held in 2007 and the current title holder is catwalk model Meleesa Payne.

Moore who is the artistic director of the pageant said the committee has 15 contestants confirmed and two more who could be added to the line up by the time pageant night, July 4, rolls around.
On the ‘Quest’ this year are: Althia King, a 19-year-old aspiring entrepreneur who is studying at the Business School. She is 5ft 5in and a resident of Georgetown. Asanti Mickle who is 21 years old, is a first-year student at the University of Guyana (UG). The 5ft 6 in, West Bank Demerara resident is studying to become a human resources manager.
Faye Nicholson, 19, a teacher is from Lethem, Rupununi. She is 5 ft 7 ins tall. Candace Horatio, a 24-year-old UG graduate, lives on the West Coast Demerara. She is 5 ft 8 ins. Cianna Persaud, 23, is 5 ft 4in. This resident of Bartica, who has her sights on entering the diplomatic service, won the Ms Bartica Chamber of Commerce & Industry title in 2002, and was first runner up in the Ms Bartica Regatta pageant last year. Divya Sieudarsan of Corentyne, Berbice is studying to be an accountant at the Tain campus. She is 21 years old and 5ft 4in. Janella Lewis, 20, and 5ft 9in is pursuing a Diploma in Business at, Nations University. This resident of Georgetown was first runner-up of Ms Jamzone, Bartica Regatta 2007 in the top nine at Ms Europe and World Jr. Jenel Cox, 19, who is pursuing a legal career is also at UG. She lives in the city, is 5 ft 8 ins and was Ms Guyana Talented Teen 2006 and second runner-up at Guyana’s Next Top Model. Latoya Maraj, also 19 years old is 5ft 9in. A resident of the East Bank Demerara, she is studying marketing at the Academy of Professional Studies. Melissa Hendrax of Corentyne, Berbice is also at UG’s Tain Campus and is studying medicine. She is 19 years old and 5ft 7in. Nandani Seecharan, 26, is an aspiring Human Resources Manager. She is study at City College and lives on the East Bank Demerara. Ornella Ramcharan, 19, is 5ft 8in. A resident of Soesdyke, she is studying to be teacher. Rachael Bakker is 22 and stands at 5ft 7 in. A final year UG student she lives in Georgetown and eyes a legal career. Shivon Sieweyal is a 21-year-old auditor who lives on the East Coast Demerara. She is 5ft 7in. Lucria Rambalak is 22 and stands at 5 ft 5 ins. She is pursuing studies in computer science at UG and lives in Georgetown.

Artiste You Oughta Know - "Vanilla"

GuyanaLime is once again proud to promote another top local artiste, this month being no other than Guyana's very own Melissa Roberts aka Vanilla.

This stunning 26 year old lady is an individual of passion and extreme drive. Her personality has a wide spread venom that touches people where ever she goes.
She was never a singer according to her, but because she worked at a studio she was encouraged to record a tune by her fellow artiste, but she took up the challenge when she was approached by Mr. Simon who is now her manager.
In 2005 she recorded her first song “Koc it up” on the Kross Kolor Label. The song was featured on the annual compilation album “wine till yuh drop volume 2”. Later that year, Vanilla recorded her second song “Boy” and that propelled her into the realms of the elite performers in Guyana. In that same year she teamed up with soca sensation Lilman to record the single Wine it up. For mash 2007 , Vanilla recorded the song ‘Queen of the Band’ which eventually won the Road March competition beating the reigning Soca Monarch ‘Malo’ and thirty others. This was a significant achievement since this was her first year in that competition. In 2008, she lost the Road March crown by 1 point however, in 2009 she regained the Road March Crown with the song ‘Rude’ which also placed second at the Soca Monarch Competition. Vanilla is an artiste with tremendous potential, whom with the right guidance can achieve greatness.
She is also a well rounded individual with titles of the GABBF Miss Body Fitness Novice 2006 and Miss Body Fitness Intermediate 2007. She is also a video editor, director and a manager at her company.

GuyanaLime recently caught with Vanilla. Read her exclusive interview with GuyanaLime.

GuyanaLime: Why did you enter the music industry?
Vanilla : I think god has a plan for everyone and if you pay attention you will be led in the direction and that is exactly what happened to me.

GuyanaLime: Where do you get your inspiration from?
Vanilla: My inspiration usually comes from life’s experiences; whether its mine or someone elses.

GuyanaLime: Who is managing your career at the moment?
Vanilla: At present, Mr. Burchmore Simon of Kross Kolor Records is my manager.

GuyanaLime: When can we expect an album?
Vanilla: To tell you the truth, I’m not planning on releasing an album any time soon; however, you can look out for more singles.

GuyanaLime: What are you currently working on?
Vanilla: I’m currently working on writing, recording and studying.

GuyanaLime: Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Vanilla: Ten years form now I’ll be an artiste manager/producer and a fitness instructor and or educator.

GuyanaLime: If you could do anything other than music what would it be and why?
Vanilla: The thing about me is that I do everything I love doing, and that is music and Fitness besides they go hand in hand.

GuyanaLime: If you could collaborate with any other artiste, who would you choose?
Vanilla: At this point, I’ll be happy to collaborate with any international artiste but J-Lo, Beyonce and Destra are at the top of my list.

GuyanaLime: What are some of your beauty tips and how do you manage to keep in shape? Vanilla: mmmhhh beauty tips? truly love yourself inside and out, always make sure you have a

good breakfast, exercise, eat and drink healthy.

GuyanaLime: What message do you have for young upcoming singers like yourself?
Vanilla: To young upcoming artiste, believer in yourself and perfect your artistic talent because it’s a tough road out there. Remember luck is preparedness.

GuyanaLime hereby wishes Vanilla the very best in all of her future endeavours.

Model search, designer portfolio gearing up for live competition

Designer Sonia Noel is back on the radar, unofficially launching Guyana Model Search 2009 and her brainchild project, Designer Portfolio 2009. She is also gearing up to represent Guyana at the upcoming Fashion Week of Trinidad and Tobago.Sonia also has a new project in the works this year; she is looking for a top local stylist, and has already begun a nationwide search to recruit the best here.
The search for Guyana’s next top model is down to 15 guys and 12 girls, but the numbers are expected to be cut to 12 in each category before the show begins to be televised nationally. Sonia, in an interview earlier this week with The Scene, commented on how difficult the selection process was this year, adding that the turnouts were “incredible”. She reflected on the tremendous response shown last year saying that interest in the project continues to grow.
She disclosed that workshops and training sessions will soon begin to enhance the skills of those selected. Sonia is of the belief that training is essential before the persons selected are introduced to a national audience.She disclosed that July 5 has been scheduled for the finals of the events combined and that Splashmins has been chosen as the venue.The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) company is one of the main sponsors of the event, and according to Sonia, the company has been supporting local talent routinely, particularly throwing its support behind Guyana Fashion Weekend.
The model search and designer portfolio competitions will be broadcast on NCN Channel 11 and HJTV Channel 72, as well as TTS Bartica. Additionally, they will be aired on the Caribbean Broadcasting Network. The public could get involved through online voting and texting, according to Sonia.Last year Shanelly Kendall was the female top model, while Michael Younge was her male counterpart.Meanwhile, Sonia disclosed that she will unveil a new 24-piece collection at the upcoming fashion week in Trinidad. She said that being invited back provided her with a great opportunity to represent Guyana again.
Other designers scheduled to appear at the event are Claudia Pegus, Heather Jones, Robert Young, Simple Garnett all of Trinidad, Calvin Southwell of Antigua, Brown Sugar of St Kitts, Avark from Barbados and Francis Hendy of the USA. Richard Young is the production director of this event.Sonia said also that local model Meleesa Payne has been selected to model at the fashion week in Trinidad. Meleesa, she said, has been impressive on runways here and in the region, recently making waves in Jamaica.

Apsara 2 Returns- "Dances that'll leave you mesmerised"

Classic Indian, Latin and hip-hop will fuse with alternative dance styles this year when the dancers from the APSARA production hit the National Cultural Centre (NCC) stage come next weekend in a production the producers have promised would be “breathtaking.”
APSARA, which producers have said in the past means “dances from the heaven, kind of exotic”, will be on stage on Saturday, May 23 and according to directors Chandini Ramnarain and Padmini Rambalak they have “cleverly enhanced the show from last year.
“The production is a remarkable achievement for this young dance company, after one year of dancing together as APSARA and numerous performances over the last year, including at Carifesta X; at a packed show at Albion in Berbice and at a sold-out evening of dance at the Pegasus,” the young directors boasted in a recent release.
They promised that the audience can expect performances that would be “marked by stunning sets and costumes, beautiful choreography and a strong performance by a talented young company of dancers.”
Choreographer Kiran Mattai said that this year they would offer a selection of dance experiences that meet the needs and interests of the diverse Guyanese population as it would include some beautiful performances by children.
“Many of our new students are very excited about the upcoming performance, the cast is talented, and enthusiastic and proud to show the world what Guyanese young people can do. They’ve helped to make the programme as lively and as rich as it is,” Padmini said in the release.
Last year’s stars of the production, Marcia Akeung and Lucria Rambalak, who did a piece called ‘Tribal’, will be featured again. While Marcia will do a Latin number, Lucria is said to be bringing “her unique style in a special performance to the stage.”
According to a press release, “APSARA specialises in contemporary classical dance forms where the basics of Indian classical dances are used as a springboard to evolve a modern and unique vocabulary.”
Director-Producer Chandini along with a team of choreographers including Padmini, Kiran and Marcia all of whom are classical and contemporary dancers intends to wow the audience with a production that crosses all language and geographical barriers.
The show will start at 8 pm and tickets cost $1,200 and $1,000 and are available at N&S Mattai, NCC, Gizmos and Gadgets, Bhagwan’s, Broadway Fashions and the Feed Shop.

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Timeka closer to number 1 on RE-TV charts in Jamaica

Even as local music lovers are soaking up the transformation of Guyanese songstress Timeka Marshall singing and acting abilities, the local diva is heading closer to the number one spot on the RE-tv charts with her 'all night' sensual video. The local catwalk beauty's combination video 'Hush' with Peetah Morgan of the Morgan Heritage clan is also making the rounds and has also entered the RE-tv charts.The GT&T inaugural Cell Link Jingle winner recently completed promotional tours to Trinidad and Barbados and is currently in Jamaica working on yet another video; this time with Busy signal. That video will be filmed in June for launching in time for summer.RE-tv is viewed by millions in the Caribbean, Japan and the USA.Timeka entered the charts at number eight and was at number 3 last week. She's currently second to D'aVille's Missing you right now that has been in the number 1 spot for a second week.The video ranks above Brick and Lace, Vybes Cartel. Timeka was also chosen by Peetah Morgan to star in a video where she plays his lady void of infidelity. That video will be released shortly.

Source

'Radica Invasion- Chutney in meh vein' to hit three locations...

Zoom Promotions, headed by Paul Singh, is set to bring some hot chutney vibes Guyana’s way for three days. ‘ Radica invasion: Chutney in Meh vein’ shows are carded for May 15 at Albion ground, Berbice; May 16 at Starlite Drive- in and May 17 at Uitvlugt.
This show, according to promoter Ricardo Basdeo is aimed at offering Guyanese some stress relief through Trinidad artistes Kenneth Salick aka the original Radica singer. The other artistes include Kavita aka Radica Girl, Michael Saloum aka Soca Elvis, Hunter the rum man, De Hit Man and the Divya Band out of Trinidad which is owned by Kavita.
At a press conference on Thursday at the Zoom Inn Hotel, the Trinidadian artistes expressed their anticipation to perform and to entertain. Coordinator Paul Singh said: “ Everybody is demanding to see the Radica crew so it was decided to bring them here for all the Radica lovers.” In a press release, he added: “ We decided that we will have this show because the artistes are hot and while they will be entertaining, we are also against abuse meted out to women and so we are having this show to offer entertainment while passing on the message that men should not abuse women but love them instead.” At the conference, Kavita gave all a taste of her song and encouraged all to be at the shows. She said she did the reply to the Radica song because she wanted to represent all the women who have experienced infidelity and emotional neglect by their husbands.
The original Radica singer, Kenneth Salick, a single father of eight and a former landscaper, said his song is based on his story of infidel ity. The other artistes promised a night of fun and entertainment for the entire family. Sponsors include Banks Premium, Digicel, Japarts, Zoom Inn Hotel, Secrets of Victoria, Caribbean Airlines, Gift Land Office Max, Hardware Depot and Alfro Alphonso and Sons Group of Companies.An after- party is slated for May 16 at Zoom Inn Hotel. If you did not get a chance to buy tickets, they can be purchased at the gates of the shows.

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Aidana Soraya opens Thursday

For Love of Aidana Soraya opens this Thursday at the National Cultural Centre, following a cocktail reception from 7.30 pm to 8 pm. A star-studded cast, under the direction of Gem Madhoo-Nascimento will bring Aidana Soraya to life on Thursday and the next three days. The play runs until Sunday May 17.
The cast includes the notable Richard Narine as Shorab, Nazim Hussain as Jehan, Derek Gomes as Ikbal, Rajan Tiwari as Imam Kassim along with Sherry Ann Dyal, Ajay Baksh, Dimple Mendonca, Michael Ignatius, Godfrey Naughton, Howard Lorrimer, Sonia Yarde, Kirk Jardine and Zaheer Abbas. The relatively new faces on stage will be Troy Parboo, Simone Persaud, Bibi Hussain and Kijana Lewis. For Love of Aidana Soraya is a new play, written by US-based Guyanese Ronan Blaze, who has to his credit about 14 novels and books of poetry. Aidana Soraya is a story about love and commitment. It also embodies jealousy, revenge, radicalism, extremism, redemption and basic goodness for humanity.
Tickets for the premier cost $2,500 and for the other performances $1200, $1000 and $500. The show starts at 8 pm each day except for Sunday when it starts at 4 pm. Tickets are available at Nigel’s Supermarket, City Mall and the NCC. For Love of Aidana Soraya is a GEMS Theatre Productions presentation.

The Scene

Nude Photos of Rihanna Leaked !

Just when Rihanna was starting to get her life back on track, nude photos of her were just leaked on to the internet. Unlike other celebrities who leak their own photos, we have a feeling Rihanna didn't know about this. Just when Chris Brown's lawyer Mark Geragos went to court to request investigation paperwork in regards to Rihanna's leaked battered photo, these scandalous nude pics surface. The photos feature Rihanna in what seems to be a hotel room in compromising positions. In the main photo, where you can see Rihanna's reflection in the mirror, it looks as if someone wrote "I love you Robyn. I miss you." Interestingly enough, her face and body are never in the same shot. Sounds like someone’s out to tarnish her image, who could have leaked the photos? You tell us!

It’s interesting how Rihanna’s pictures were leaked the same week as fellow R&B songstress Cassie’s were. Makes you wonder if it’s the same person(s) behind this.

See the pictures for yourself here.

The Quest: Miss Guyana Universe 2009

After a one-year hiatus Miss Guyana Universe is back and Guyanese may see 15 — the number is still to be decided — contestants face off on the National Cultural Centre stage come June 27. Manager of the pageant Nicolette Lumumba said the committee is in the process of collecting applications from prospective contestants and this process closes on May 18. She said the committee hopes to have 12 to 15 contestants on stage and the winner will represent Guyana at the Miss Universe pageant set for the Bahamas on August 23. The last pageant was held in 2007 with the crown going to catwalk model Meleesa Payne. Miss Guyana Universe franchise holder Odinga Lumumba was subsequently involved in an accident and there was no pageant last year. As usual the contestants for this year’s pageant will compete in three segments: interview, swim suit and evening gown. For a number of years, the interview segment has been conducted prior to the pageant night and on live television.
Nicolette said the pageant is dubbed ‘The Quest’ as in previous years and the committee is focused on selecting a winner who could represent Guyana. As for the pageant itself it is expected to be “short and powerful”.
Persons interested in applying can contact Nicolette Lumumba on telephone number 629-0774 and Artistic Director Dereck Moore on 663-8213 and 220-0691. This week Moore was in Berbice, at the Tain Campus and the Little Rock Hotel, while Nicolette journeyed to Essequibo to seek out contestants.

Nikiesha Telford is Miss Linden 2009

A superbly executed Miss Linden Town Week pageant saw Nikiesha Telford, who represented the Silvertown community, walking away with the coveted crown on Saturday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground.Described as “the best in recent years”, “wonderful” and “a breath of fresh air” by satisfied patrons, the event thrilled the enthusiastic crowd from beginning to end.
Seven delegates, each representing a ward in Linden, competed for the honour of wearing the crown, through talent and intelligence segments, eloquence and deportment. And even though the event did not attract the massive crowd that the Miss Big Bold and Beautiful pageant did on Wednesday night, patrons undoubtedly got their money’s worth in entertainment.They were entertained by the likes of popular Linden poets Isha Shaw and Darren Henry and singer Yoland Nedd, who positively set the pace for the night’s proceedings, with a soulful rendition.The recently formed Lichas Drama Group with their presentations “Old Higue” and the “Other side of Abuse” were positive testimonies to the group’s dedication to their craft. Both were excellently executed, and drew the comment, “riveting performances” by MC Sherene Blair.The delegates made their first appearance on stage with their opening dance, followed by the casual wear sequence.Here each delegate’s entrance on stage was preceded by a brief taped introduction, where the delegate spoke briefly about her self, the community she represented and her sponsor. This was shown on a huge projector.The delegates later performed their individual talent pieces. They sang, recited poetry and danced their way into the hearts of the audience.One particular talent piece, “Just pick me” which was superbly done by delegate number seven Jenelle Babb, immediately established her as the crowd favourite.Delegate number one, Roshana Peters, wooed the crowd with her song “I’m wiser”This was followed by the beach and casual wear segments, and finally the evening gown segment.After the girls had paraded in their elegant gowns, and lined up for the judges to have a final look, the top five were chosen.They were delegate number one Roshana Peters, representing Victory Valley, delegate number three Nikiesha Telford representing Silvertown, Tashana Allicock the number four delegate representing Kara Kara, delegate number six Shellon Gilbert, representing Central Mackenzie and delegate number seven, Jenelle Babb representing Retrieve.Each girl was then asked a question to determine the winner.Two of the delegates, Nikiesha Telford and Jenelle Babb tied, which required that they both answer another question. Telford effectively ousted Babb with her final response. Babb’s question was, “Do you think students preparing for a major exam should participate in extra curricular activities?”And why?Telford’s question was, “If in a lifetime you could be a bird, eagle or pigeon, which would you rather be and why?” She said she would rather be an eagle and gave her reasons.Shellon Gilbert, Miss Central Mackenzie copped the second runner-up position.Delegate number four Tashana Allicock copped the Best Smile and Miss Congeniality prizes, while Nikiesha Telford who was eventually crowned queen, copped the Best Gown prize.The gown was designed by Nikiesha and her sister Nadine Telford.

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Olive Gopaul: A Beauty with a Purpose

Once a household name in Guyana, Olive Gopaul is rarely seen on television today, except for when she announces the winning numbers for the Guyana Lottery Company. Olive became a public face back in 2001 when she was crowned Miss Guyana World. On her return to Guyana after competing in the international pageant, her ‘career’ blossomed. Among other things, Olive has anchored the NCN 6 o’clock news from which she was controversially fired; she was spokesperson for the Courts Guyana Ltd ‘Wrap it up’ condom campaign; and ambassador for Lifeline Counselling Services. Olive had also won the Miss University of Guyana title and was adjudged first runner-up in the Miss Guyana Universe pageant.But while she agrees that her public appearances have been fewer, she pointed out to The Scene that she has been involved in her first love, business. Olive, who has a degree in business management, said she has always been business oriented and the pageants she participated in actually helped to open doors for her in the business arena.
The publicity she received as a result participating in and winning pageants meant that businesses became aware of her and hired her. These included her being hired as Brand Manager of Sacha beauty products and being employed with the GuyFlag Insurance Company, which is now Caricom Insurance Company. The company came under Fidelity Investments and Olive later also worked with Polar beer beverages, another faction of Fidelity.
In addition, the Miss Guyana Universe pageant was dubbed the ‘clash of the champions’ and Olive said this was probably what led to some kind of friction developing between her and the then reigning Miss Guyana World Odessa Phillips, who actually pipped Olive at the end to win the crown.
Olive said she is not sure what the issue was but she admits there were some cold shoulders. Olive and Odessa had actually known each other for years as they are both from villages on the West Coast Demerara. She said the fact that she did not win did not make her angry even though her fans felt she should have been crowned. Her experience in the pageants made her a stronger person and she gained some good friends.She revealed to The Scene that she and Odessa are now “very good friends” and while they have never discussed the Miss Guyana Universe issue she said neither of them would be able to pinpoint exactly what the problem was.
It was while she was in the US “regrouping” as she was going through some personal problems, Olive said, that she bumped into Odessa, who now resides in that country. They once again became good friends and correspond very often.
Olive is now Managing Director of the Mori J’Von boutique on Robb Street, the exclusive distributor of all Hanes brands in Guyana and the Caribbean. She is also the partner of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ron Morrison, whose baby she will give birth to in another four months or so.Olive, who is 29 years old, said she had always envisioned becoming a mother at 29, and refuses to entertain the thought that she may have failed as a role model by becoming pregnant out of wedlock. She told The Scene that her pregnancy did not just happen, it was planned and she is comfortable with having a baby even though she is not married
The comfort comes from that fact that she is convinced that Ron is “the one”. She believes Ron is a “God send” and when asked if he was her life partner she said, “Absolutely. Very often we try to fulfil society’s expectations and not focus on our own needs and expectations”.
She is of the view that there is a need to redefine who is a role model and questioned whether persons who pander to society’s expectations are real role models. She pointed out that the world is changing and young people are exposed to much more than what the average young person was exposed to in the past. “So you have to ask whether having someone live up to what society sees an ideal person, can really create any change in the attitude of young people.”For Olive, a role model is much more than being the “ideal person”.“Once you find a partner and you feel that God put you together then there is no problem,” Olive said.
She also brushed off suggestions that her pregnancy may be in direct contradiction to her ‘Wrap it up’ campaign. “When you find the right person then you can afford not to wrap it up; and when the pregnancy is planned.”
Olive said it was God and a book captioned ‘To my very special wife’ that Ron sent her as a Christmas present and it was between her opening the gift and falling off of her bed that she decided that Ron was “the one”.
On the business side of the things Olive and Ron will open a branch of their boutique in Suriname by the end of this month and a branch in Trinidad will also soon become a reality. They are also working towards building the Hanes Mall, which would sell Hanes brands exclusively in a move to “strengthen” the Hanes brand in Guyana. Plans are also on stream to open Hanes boutiques in other parts of Guyana.Meanwhile, the opening of the Soho restaurant they had announced last year is on hold as they had a problem with the location. “We have a lot of proposals that we are working on,” Olive said.
The former Miss Guyana World is also hoping to one day hold the franchise for the pageant as she said it is “saddening to see where it is today. I am a product of it and I know it can be used to assist young ladies because even if they do not win the crown, the rounded training that they would be involved in will certainly assist them.” She feels pageants should be used to instil values in young women, but agrees that this does not always happen in local pageantry. “Pageants are not always good in Guyana but if we can redefine pageants and put good practices in place then we can help young women,” Olive said even as she admits that with a baby on the way it is not something she can look into immediately.
She is also mulling starting ‘The Olive Gopaul Show’ on television, which she and Ron said would be an “Oprah Winfrey kind of show”, with a live studio audience as it would be a “contemporary style talk show” dealing in-depth with social and other issues. A website is also being constructed to offer “Olive Gopaul as a product.”

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