Author: Ameyaw Debrah

Jimmy Jean-Louis with Leila Djansi

Haitian actor, Jimmy Jean-Louis has arrived in Ghana to commence shooting for Ghanaian film maker, Leila Djansi’s psychological drama, ‘Sinking Sands’.  He touched down at around 6:30pm on Saturday May 22 at the Kotoka International Airport on a KLM flight via France. He was met on arrival by director Leila Djansi.

Jimmy was spotted looking trendy in a pair of dark denim jeans, a white shirt with black tie, an overall jacket, and a flat cap to match. He was excited about visiting Ghana for the first time and wished that he had arrived at day time so he could see more of Accra.

The model-turned-actor, said he is expecting a great experience in filming in Ghana, meeting the people and seeing the wonderful places in Ghana. “I joined the ‘Sinking Sand’ project because I liked the story, it is a beautiful and well written story worth telling”, commented Jimmy.

‘Sinking Sands’ is a psychological drama about a couple, Jimah (Jean-Louis) and Pabi (Ama K. Abebrese) in a loving marriage which turns into one of violence and abuse when Jimah becomes disfigured in a domestic accident.

Jimmy Jean-Louis has had a successful career as an international model and actor. Early in his career he honed his acting skills in a number of independent films, which led to him landing a supporting role in Jean Claude Van Damme’s “Derailed” which set the stage for subsequent roles with other Hollywood notables. He went on to secure major roles in movies such as: “Tears of the Sun”, “Hollywood Homicide”, “Monster-in-law” and “The Game of Our Lives”. He played the lead role in “Phat Girlz”, starring opposite Academy Award winner Mo’Nique as her love interest.

Currently playing The Haitian on NBC’s “Heroes“, Jean-Louis is also the founder of Hollywood Unites for Haiti, a nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing and educating underprivileged youth of Haiti to the arts and sports, and is concentrating his efforts on Haiti after the devastating earthquakes. His role in supporting the people of Haiti after the tragic event has been well recognized with several honors, including one at the White House recently.

Jimmy Jean-Louis, the male lead in award-winning Ghanaian film maker, Leila Djansi’s upcoming movie, ‘Sinking Sands’ is to be presented with a humanitarian award.  The Haitian born actor and founder of Hollywood Unites for Haiti, will receive the Humanitarian Award from Academy Award winning actor Sean Penn during International Luxury Media’s 3rd Annual Better World Awards’ (BWA) Glitter and Glam Ball. The invitation-only black-tie gala, cocktail reception and dinner will take place at The Lotus VIP Club On Le Goeland Beach during the Cannes Film Festival on May 19.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, who will receive the BWA Fashion Philanthropy Award, will be among the special guests that include Boris Becker, Prince Filliberto de Savoie, Princess Clotilde Courau, Elie Saab, Denise Rich, Hofit Golan, The Al-Rashid family, Troy Bayliss, Baden Cooke, and Ana Cunya.

The exclusive evening includes musical performances by Bryan Ferry and Ky-Mani Marley, a celebrity poker tournament, fashion show by StyleShopUSA, and a live luxury charity auction benefiting Hollywood Unites for Haiti and Fashion Relief for Haiti.

Jimmy was born in Petionville, near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. After the powerful 2010 earthquake, Jean-Louis went back to Haiti to search for his elderly parents. Sadly, he learned that a house he had grown up in collapsed, killing several of his relatives.

“Haiti has suffered many set backs in its rich history and yet the Haitian people have never lost the character to face adversity with creativity, resilience, and community,” said Jean-Louis. “I want to do everything in my power to comfort those who desperately need help and rebuild the country that I love.”

The tragic events inspired Jean-Louis to change the focus of his charity Hollywood Unites for Haiti, whose original mission was to provide sports and cultural education to underprivileged youth on the island. The group mobilized for disaster relief after the magnitude-7 earthquake struck. The organization allocates 100% of its donations for helping Haitian citizens and raising global awareness of ways in which people can help.

Jimmy will be tackling another humanitarian issue that affects thousands of lives in Ghana and around the world in the psychological thriller, ‘Sinking Sands’.  The much anticipated Leila Djansi film addresses the all-important issue of domestic abuse in a dramatic and unexpected manner.  Jimmy and Leila teamed up on the critically acclaimed, award winning epic, ‘I Sing of A Well’, which was narrated by Jimmy.

A special edition of the hit game show, ‘Who wants to be rich’, dubbed ‘Who Deserves to be Rich’ has started airing on television. The series, which is aimed at rewarding outstanding Ghanaians who need money to sustain their efforts towards humanity and development, started with veteran Ghanaian athlete Rose Hart who was accompanied by ace actors Fred Amugi and Grace Nortey for assistance.

Rose Hart (born January 9, 1942) is a retired track and field athlete who specialized in hurdling, sprints, and the discus throw events during her career. She represented Ghana at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where she was a semi-finalist. She twice claimed a gold medal for her native Ghana at the All-Africa Games in 1965 and 1973. At the 1965 Brazzaville games, she won Gold, Silver and Bronze in three separate events for Ghana. She still holds the record for best discus throw in Ghana with her 47.19 meter throw. She currently operates a makeshift gym where she trains young aspiring athletes.

Together with her celebrity friends, Madam RoseHart cruised easily through the questions till they started running into some difficulties. The first difficult question rose when Kafui Dey, the host asked which of the teams in the English Premier League is nicknamed The Gunners. Completely clueless, they agreed to ask the audience for help and with the right answer from the crowd, moved to the next level.

They run into tougher questions as they climbed up the ladder of cash rewards. Surprisingly, the two actors couldn’t show enough knowledge in their profession when they were asked which of the followings actors were of South African origin: Djimon Hansou, Charlize Theron, or Nicole Kidman. Grace Nortey murmured in Ga that Djimon sounded African so they should go for that but they agreed to use their 50/50 lifeline. The computer removed two incorrect options leaving Charlize Theron and Nicole Kidman. “She must be a white South African”, Fred Amugi remarked. They gambled on Charlize Theron, with Grace Nortey confirming, “ I can feel it within me”.

To add some suspense, the host called for a commercial break before revealing the right answer. When Kafui Dey intentionally mentioned Nicole Kidman as the answer before giving the right answer, Grace Nortey exclaimed, “I almost fainted”. They continued with the guessing game again when they were asked which country used hieroglyphs. Fred Amugi insisted that it was between Egypt and Greece but when it came to shove the went for Egypt to secure 6,000 GhC .

This brought them to question 13, worth 12,000 GhC, which asked for the name of the architect that designed the Millau Viaduct. Fully aware of the fact that they didn’t know the answer and not willing to drop their earnings with a wrong answer, they decided to walk away with 6,000 GhC.

They were followed by a young humanitarian who has guest celebrities Rama Brew and Dadson for support. They were belled out due to time and would be rolled over for next week’s edition.

Representatives from Africa Fashion International (AFI), organizers of the Africa Fashion Week (AFW) have briefed Ghanaian fashion designers on the annual showcase of African fashion and designing talents. In the one day forum held at the Oak Plaza Hotel in Accra, was to introduce the fashion week to Ghanaian designers and outline the requirements for partaking in the various activities during the event.

a creation by Christie Brown

Lorato Liphuko, the Fashion Liaison Officer for African Fashion International, took the designers through the process of producing clothes that would qualify for next year’s fashion week, highlighting the need to stay trendy and relevant on the global market. She told the designers to focus on ‘ready-wear’ designs because that is more saleable.

Ghanaian designers Christie Brown and Qumi Bespoke will be representing Ghana at Africa Fashion Week this year. They will join some of the world’s leading African Fashion designers from across the continent and Diaspora to showcase the finest contemporary African design at the second annual Africa Fashion Week in Johannesburg. The exquisite collections of 33 designers will feature in 19 runway shows from 30 June – 3 July, before an influential audience of international buyers, media, World Cup guests, VIPs and celebrities.

The significance of this fashion summit is critical for African Fashion International (AFI) chairperson Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe “Africa Fashion Week (AFW) is potentially the most important platform for the African fashion industry, being perfectly positioned to promote African designers globally.”

It is rare, in fact completely unique, to have all the leading voices in African Fashion in one place, at one time, in one country. Those voices will give expression to Africa’s fashion future at a two-day seminar that runs alongside the runway shows; and that will examine ways of strengthening the burgeoning African Fashion industry, debating an African aesthetic and building a global network.

Qumi Bespoke

For the designers, their collections will not just be confined to the catwalk; they will be available for purchase on-site, along with ready-to-wear garments, at the first ever AFI Fashion boutique which will be open for the month of June.

On the eve of Africa Fashion Week itself, the AFI boutique will launch online as a permanent shop specializing in African fashion from across the globe, with collections available immediately after their catwalk showing.

And when the talking and viewing is done, acknowledgment will be given to the leading lights of the industry at the second AFI African Fashion Awards on 5 July 2010. Highlighting industry excellence and outstanding contributions by fashion industry members of African descent world-wide, the awards are a platform that will help take African fashion across the continent and to the world.

The headlining act for the WAPI ‘I Rep Africa’ festival, R2bees lived up to the billing when they thrilled a pack of fun-loving youths at the Coconut Groove Regency Hotel on Saturday, May 8. The rap group which flew back into the country from Nigeria, where they are currently promoting their hit song, ‘Kiss Your Hand’ featuring Wande Coal, climaxed the event which was filled with exciting new and promising talents.

WAPI is a British Council event for Ghana’s established stars to come together with the stars of tomorrow, to have fun and network. It was an opportunity for young, upcoming creatives and artists to network with the experts in the field. The finale event saw musical performances from upcoming rappers and singers interspersed with some performances from the more established acts such as Keche, Stay J and Dr Cryme. There was an exhibition of some amazing artworks and a funky fashion show with young designers such as Nana Asihene and Bubu. View pictures

In a bid to arm young creatives with the opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge from those who have made it in the creative fields of broadcasting, journalism, acting and advertising, the British Council also added an expert discussion panel to the WAPI festival. The panelists included: online entertainment journalist and publicist, Ameyaw Debrah; Ms Naa, YFM DJ and host of the Ryse and Shyne breakfast show; Jason Nartey, Creative Director at MMRS Ogilvy; and Kwaku Boateng, actor and Founder and Artistic Director of The K. Boateng Academy of Performing Arts in Ghana. Kwaku Boateng also held a workshop on acting for inspiring young actors.

Although WAPI, ‘I Rep Africa’ was billed to be the last in the Words and Pictures series, unconfirmed reports suggest that the British Council might continue the series in Ghana.

The Ghanaian winners of the 2010 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) have presented their awards to the Vice President, John Mahama at the Castle, Osu. The group included Mabel Germain, Elorm Adablah, Adjetey Annang, Naa Ashorkor Mensah Doku, Lydia Forson, Akorfa E. Asiedu and Ken Attoh. The delegation was led by Judith Oluwole Kuwornu, the Ghana rep of the African Movie Academy Awards. View Photos

Vice President Mahama, was happy to receive the group. He expressed joy at the achievement of the Ghanaian movie industry at the awards ceremony because according to him Ghana is taking back its lead role in film production in the sub-region. He said Ghana set the pace in quality film production several decades ago and lost its hold because of lack of sustainability in the surge of home video production.

On behalf of the country, the Vice President congratulated the award winners and assured them of government’s support in the coming years for the industry. According to him, the second phase of the Private Sector lead growth policy of government would be driven by the creative industry. He promised better days for the creative industry under his Government.

Out of the 19 nominations for Ghana at the 2010 AMAA, there were 6 wins as follows: AMAA achievement in sound- “I Sing of a Well”; AMAA achievement in costume- “I Sing of a Well”; Best original soundtrack; Best performance by an actor in a supporting role; Best performance by an actress in a leading role; and Best director. Ghana also got the most coveted awards of the jury award for Best Movie by ‘“I Sing of a Well”’ and a lifetime achievement award to King Ampaw.

The British Council will conclude its Words and Pictures (WAPI) series with a festival dubbed “I Rep Africa” at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel courtyard on May 8. The festival is a celebration of what it means to be young and African in the 21^st century. It’s an event for Ghana’s established stars to come together with the stars of tomorrow, to have fun and network.

There will performances by R2Bees, alongside Ghana’s best young WAPi artists, underground Ghanaian musicians, a fashion show and spoken word. Other activities will include: expert discussion panel for young creatives to learn from the professionals; plus acting workshops, spoken word, craft fair, and much more.

This is also a chance for the best artists to win star prizes by showing how they ‘Rep’ Africa in their chosen art form. If you are a visual artist, musician, spoken word artist or photographer, you stand a chance to win a place on the British Council’s Creative Entrepreneurs Training scheme, worth GHC1800. All entries in visual art and photography will be judged before the event, with spoken word and music battling it out on the day.

There will be an opportunity for young, upcoming creatives and artists to network with the experts in the field. A panel of professionals in journalism, broadcasting, photography, music and advertising will also be there to share their experience and give tips on how to survive in the industry.

‘It’s gonna be great to come here and see all the young up-and-coming artists playing the fresh sounds of tomorrow. It’s important for us to support up and coming artists because they are the future of the Ghana’s music industry’, says R2Bees.

Actress, Jackie Appiah continues to be on the rise following her recent ‘Best Actress in a Leading Role’ honours at the 2010 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for her role in ‘Perfect Picture’. Jackie, who played the role of a flustered wife battling with sexual incompatible with her new husband, has described her new achievement as exciting and a beautiful feeling.

The young and beautiful actress is not new to the AMA Awards; in 2007 she won the nod for ‘Best Actress in a Supporting Role’ for ‘Beyonce’ and was nominated the following year for ‘Best Actress in a Leading role’ for ‘Princess Tyra’. So winning the award this year brings a good sense of achievement and growth for her. “It was a beautiful feeling and I am just so happy. It shows that God is on my side and people are out there watching my works and appreciating what I do”, she comments.

According to the star actress, winning the best actress nod means she now has to screen the scripts that come her way and make sure she always goes in for the best. She was particularly impressed with Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s script for the ‘Perfect Picture’ and she comments: “The first time I got the script for perfect picture, I fell in love with it. I just knew that it was a good and beautiful script. And look at how far it has brought me now”.

Winning the coveted award holds great prospects for Jackie Appiah and she hopes that this achievement would take her career to the next level. When asked whether this means her fees or rates would go up, she answered: “Being the queen for the African Movie Academy Awards in 2010 as best actress comes with a lot. Yea, probably the fees will go higher a little; let’s see. But I will choose good scripts, good movies, good directors, and good crews. I will ask for good cast; I will make sure I know whom I am working with”.

She also believes that the recent achievements of Ghanaian movies and actors at the African Movie Academy Awards are strong indications of the improvements and growth in the Ghanaian movie industry. “This goes to show that Ghanaian movies are moving in the right path, we are sitting up right now. We are bringing in different kinds of cameras, better scripts, better locations, and better costumes. It goes to show that people are sitting up and are trying to get serious with the business right now; it’s not a joke anymore. We are really happy because we have had a lot of nominations and wins in the past three years. It goes to show that we are on the right path and I thank God for that”.

Jackie can soon be seen in the new movie, ‘Foreplay’. She also recently finished shooting a production alongside Nigerian sensation, Yemi Blaq in which she plays the role of a female rapper. There is certainly a lot more to come from the reigning queen of African cinema.

Full list of winners for African Movie Academy Awards 2010

BEST DOCUMENTARY

Bariga Boys(Nigeria)

BEST SHORT FILM

The Abbys Boys (South Africa)

BEST ANIMATION

Hanayns Shoe (Egypt)

BEST FILM BY AN AFRICAN FILMMAKER IN DIASPORA

Soul Diaspora

BEST FILM IN AFRICAN LANGUAGE

Imani (Uganda)

HEART OF AFRICA AWARD FOR BEST FILM FROM NIGERIA

Figurine by Kunle Afolayan

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND

I sing of a well

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING

The Child

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN ART DIRECTION

Fulani

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKE-UP

The Child

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN COSTUME

I sing of a well

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN VISUAL EFFECT

Figurine

BEST ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK

A sting in a tale

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A CHILD ACTOR

Teddy Onyago and Bill Oloo- Togetherness Supreme

MOST PROMISING ACTRESS

Rahema Nanfuka – Imani

MOST PROMISING ACTOR

Wilson Maina – Togetherness Supreme (Kenya)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Adjetey Anang – The Perfect Picture

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Tapiwa Gwaza – Seasons of a life

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

Jackie Appiah – The Perfect Picture

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

Ramsey Noah – The Figurine

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY

Figurine

BEST PICTURE

The Figurine (Nigeria)

BEST DIRECTOR

Shirley Frimpong-Manso- The Perfect Picture

Ghana’s fastest rapper, Sarkodie made history at the 2010 Ghana Music Awards when he became the first artiste to ever win the Artiste of the Year nod with a debut album. The most outstanding artiste of the year also topped the ceremony with 4 other awards on a night filled with excitement, anxiety, rollicking performances and some surprises.View Gallery 

The star-studded event which was hosted by Chris Attoh and Doreen Andoh saw appearances by musicians, radio, sports, film and television personalities with a streak of star performances. Among those that performed were Wande Coal (Nigeria), Jozi (South Africa), Donaeo (UK), Sarkodie, Obrafour, 4×4, Tinny, VIP, Ohemea Mercy, Ruff and Smooth, Nana Boro, Efyah, Amakye Dede, Becca and Wutah.

Here is the full list of winners:
Artist of the Year
Sarkodie

Sarkodie

Most popular song of the year
Simple by Bradez

Discovery of the year
Sarkodie

Hip hop /hiplife song of the year
‘You dey craze’ by Ayigbe Edem

Hip hop/hiplife artist of the year
Sarkodie

Gospel Song of the year
‘Ayeyi Ndwom’ by DSP Kofi Sarpong

Gospel Artist of the year
Ohemaa Mercy

Highlife song of the year
‘Kotosa’ by Wutah.

Highlife artist of the year
Kofi B

Afro-pop Song of the year
World Trade Centre by 4×4

Reggae Song of the year
Jah will by Wutah

Best Collaboration of the year
‘Kasiebo’ by Obrafour & Guru.

Best Rapper of the year
Sarkodie

African artiste of the year
Wande Coal

Record of the year
Daa Ke Daa by Becca

Album of the Year
‘Ma Kye’ by Sarkodie

Song writer of the year
Kwabena Akwaboah for ‘Daa Ke Da’ performed by Becca

Best Male Vocal performance
PV (Wutah)

Best Female Vocal Performance
Becca

Producer of the Year
Richie of Lynx Enetertainment

World Bank Music for Development Award
School Dey Be by Asem

Instrumentalist of the year
Kwame Yeboah

Traditional artist of the year
John Osei Korankye

MUSIGA Merit award
Abinfour Nana Yeboah (KK Number 2)

“I am elated to work with Jimmy again. He is a very passionate person who is also very interested in seeing the right kind of stories told. We are always on the same page, and I am looking forward to what we are going to put out together,” said Djansi.

‘Sinking Sands’ is a psychological drama about a couple, Jimah (Jean-Louis) and Pabi (Ama K. Abebrese) in a loving marriage which turns into one of violence and abuse when Jimah becomes disfigured in a domestic accident.

“I am fascinated by the character I am to portray. It gives me an opportunity to step outside myself and to somehow understand what it means to have a physical flaw and be judged based on that. I think this is going to be very exciting and worthwhile,” explains Jean-Louis.

“The story is one that deals with some tough issues without sugar coating, and I am delighted to work with Jimmy Jean-Louis. I have always admired his work,” said an excited Abebrese, who is making her acting debut in an international feature.

Jean-Louis has had a successful career as an international model and actor. Early in his career he honed his acting skills in a number of independent films, which led to him landing a supporting role in Jean Claude Van Damme’s “Derailed” which set the stage for subsequent roles with other Hollywood notables. He went on to secure major roles in “Tears of the Sun” (Columbia Pictures, 2003) with Bruce Willis and Monica Belluci, “Hollywood Homicide” (Revolution Studios, 2003) with Harrison Ford and Josh Hartnet, “Monster-in-law” (New Line Cinema, 2005) with Jane Fonda and Jennifer Lopez and “The Game of Our Lives” (IFC Films 205) with Patrick Stewart, Wes Bentley and Gerard Butler. He played the lead role in “Phat Girlz” ((Fox Searchlight Pictures, 2006), starring opposite Academy Award winner Mo’Nique as her love interest. Currently playing The Haitian on NBC’s “Heroes,” Jean-Louis is also the founder of Hollywood Unites for Haiti, a nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing and educating underprivileged youth of Haiti to the arts and sports, and is concentrating his efforts on Haiti after the devastating earthquakes.

British-Ghanaian TV hostess and actress Ama K. Abebrese was a presenter on BBC2’s youth show “Pass da Mic” and the English File educational series. She is currently a regular TV presenter on OBE TV, hosting and producing on a number of shows including “One Touch” and the entertainment chat show “On the Sofa.”

Casting for other roles is ongoing according to the film’s producer, Nick Manousakis, who projects a late fall release through Neoclassic Films Studios new home entertainment division, NHE.

The beautiful and sassy Makafui Ninkcabs is a fast growing Ghanaian model with over two years of experience under her belt. The petite 29 /23.5/33.5 measurement model was signed to Anti-models Agency in the Netherlands, where she lived for 3 years.

Makafui was encouraged to take up modeling by a professional photographer who believed that she was a natural. Since joining the profession, she has drawn a lot of inspiration from supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Heidi Klum and Tyra Banks. “These supermodels really inspire me a lot. They know about their business and deliver their assignments to its perfection” she comments.

Makafui has been doing commercial and runway modeling and says she would love to do editorial or print modeling as well. Since her return to Ghana, she has become the face of Goldcoast Clothing. She has also done several runway shows including the Ghana Fashion Weekend, and modeling for Kofi Ansah & La Senza at a Canoe Fashion Fair. She also hosted the launch of the new Schweppes malt organized by Canoe Quarterly Magazine. There is still a lot to expect from Makafui as she has signed a year’s contract to be the face of a new production company as well as their spokesperson. She has also been called for a fashion show in Switzerland for an African project.

The lovely Makafui is also into acting. She made an appearance in the third episode of a popular Dutch TV series called “Voetball Vrouwen” (meaning the footballer’s Wife) she was also a cast in a theater movie called The cellular fever “The Freak”. “ Acting is more challenging than modeling I must say, like you won’t mind posing topless but when you’re asked to do topless when acting, you always find it a bit uncomfortable before you decide to do it’ she describes her experience with acting.

Model Behaviour

What is a routine day like for you?

Well, I mostly get a wake up call. I never forget to read my daily devotional and the rest of the day is left with what my management has for me.

Any training regimen?

Sorry but I’m not really much of an exercise person, naturally slim.

Any special diets?

Nope! I eat everything as long as it’s sweet and delicious.

Have ever had any jobs through Facebook?

Honestly, I do get some people calling my management about me working for them so I must say Facebook kind of helps promote my career a little.

What is the funniest thong someone ever told you on Facebook?

Its amazing but I sometimes get sayings like “Are you part of this world?”, “Be my wife and make me the happiest guy in the world” and “If I had you in my house, I would never buy a TV”. But I think I love to hear them though.

What are the trendiest fashion accessories of the moment for you?

Wow, I would go in for platform heels, Rings & jewelries.

Casual or formal?

I mostly wear casual stuff

Leather or metallic watch?

I’m not much of a watch wearer

Shoes or flip flops?

I did choose shoes [ love to be in heels ]

Shaving or waxing?

Spray and waxing is always the best

Natural hair or extensions?

I love my natural look but I always want to look different so extensions is cool with me

Tattoo of piercing?

I love both tattoos and piercing. I have 6 tattoos and 4 piercings. , well it depends on

African print or Western clothing?

My taste is everywhere so I would go in for both African print and western fabric.

Favourite colour?

I can’t choose, I love colors.

Favourite fragrance/perfume?

Gucci by Gucci and D&G “The one”.

Favorite food?

I would kill for any food with beef, talk about pizza, burger, beef rice and I love fries too.

Favourite Make-up, colour abd texture?

I love Mac but I mostly use Sleek. I love the dark eyes with a perfect eye brow.

Quick Make-up tips:

Firstly, apply a good and suitable foundation on your face and neck, apply a black pencil/eye liner, give your eye brow a perfect shape, apply a waterproof mascara, then a lip gloss and you’re ready to go for the day.

Ghanaian filmmaker, Shirley Frimpong-Manso may be saying ‘Checkmate’ in her latest production but certainly, this is not the end of her wonderful works. While her last two productions, ‘Perfect Picture’ and ‘A sting in a Tale’ continue to receive critical and commercial acclaim she is set to dazzle audiences yet again with the thriller, ‘Checkmate’ premiering in Ghana on April 1.

‘Checkmate’ revolves around a young man, Kwame who has made all the right moves in his life; a good job, a beautiful devoted wife, an adorable child, and an impending promotion as a senior customs officer at the airport. But what seems like a typical guys’ hangout on a weekend away from home in the company of his new friend and mentor, Kiki turns out to be a bad move with dire consequences for Kwame. After losing a game of Chess, he succumbs to a bet to seduce the attractive, sexy Caroline.

The consequence of his dirty forgotten weekend later pops up threatening to destroy everything he so dearly loves. But the games only begin when he realizes that Caroline’s demand for his love is nothing compared to the demands of a drug lord who will do anything to get Kwame’s assistance in smuggling drugs out of the country. With his entire life hanging on a thread, Kwame must try to win the game or risk losing everything.

‘Checkmate’ promises to thrill viewers with its suspense-filled plot, clever use of audiovisuals and a gratifying interpretation of characters by an impressive cast of both new and old faces.

It is written and directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso, starring Nadia Buari, K.S.M, Ekow Blankson, Naa Ashorkor and introducing Senanu Gbedawo.

Tinsel Town will dazzle with glitz and glam when the premiere of the sequel to the hit African movie, ‘American Nurse II’ hits the Silver Screen Theatre of West Hollywood on March 27. The premiere will kick off with Elizabeth ‘LizMani’ Amani (former Miss America Nigeria contestant) interviewing celebrities on the red carpet, and the host for the Premiere would be celebrity BET/HBO comedian Shawn Harris.

The premiere will be a classic Hollywood experience as the cast comprising African King of Comedy, Michael Blackson from BET comedy and Ice Cube’s ‘Barbershop’, Aloma Wright from ‘Scrubs’ and ‘Days Of Our Lives’, Hakeem Kae Kazim, cast member of the Oscar winning movie ‘Hotel Rwanda’ with Don Cheadle and also of the new TV series ‘24’ appear on the red carpet event.

‘My American Nurse II’ was shot in Los Angeles, retaining only 3 of the characters from part one – Pascal Atumi, Vida Darko (Veeda) and Oscar Atuma. In ‘American Nurse I’, a Nigerian man living in the US decides to ‘file papers’ for a woman from his homeland to join him as his wife, little did he know, his ‘American Nurse’ wife was going to clinch to the American culture. Thanks to Hollywood, filmmaker/writer/ producer, Pascal Atuma, audiences can now watch ‘My American Nurse II’ and enjoy the humour and life lessons in it.

‘My American Nurse 2’ is a classic comedy movie that chronicles the experiences of a Nigerian cab driver in Los Angeles, Shehu (Pascal Atuma) who has had less than stellar luck with women. Frustration sets in and Shehu gives up the idea of dating American women and travels home to Nigeria to find himself a wife (Vida Darko). His plan is to find a nurse that he can bring to the U.S. to become certified so that she can make enough money to pull her own weight. His wife, on the other hand, has other plans and proves to be quite a handful for her unsuspecting husband with her newfound American identity. “My American Nurse 2″ is a humorous yet serious look at the life of an immigrant in America. Sanga Entertainment, New York is set to mainstream the distribution of the movie again worldwide.

With the rave success of My American Nurse I among Africans among in Canada, USA, UK, Scotland and more, Pascal Atuma who has been described as the Tyler Perry of Africa says, “I feel privileged and very grateful to God almighty for the opportunity to get a chance to do this again, and to be challenged by other people with their own money and resources to beat my own work as I tried to outdo myself. It is a blessing from God, and I think I gave it all that I have, I did my very best, and hopefully, by Gods grace, a lot of people will be entertained and impressed, to God be the glory”.

Hosts Kat and Segun Arinze

Stakeholders of the African movie industry were on tenterhooks on March 6, as all attention shifted to Accra, Ghana for the announcement of nominees for the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). The glitzy nominations party brought together some of the crème in the industry from all over Africa to celebrate the growth of African movies in the past year and to observe which movies, actors and technical players were deemed fit by the Academy for laurels this year.

Among the tall list of stars that passed through the night were, Majid Michel, Adjetey Anang, Osita Iheme, Akintola Abimbola Mary-Anne, Amijo Mofe Richard, Ali Nuhu, Rita Dominic, Jackie Appiah, Lydia Forson and several others. View Photos

The night commenced with a Red Carpet hosted by the MCs for the event, Nollywood actor, Segun Arinze and broadcaster/presenter Kat. After the elaborate red carpet affair that saw magnificent interviews, photography and fashion, it was time for the main event which was interspersed with speeches and solidarity messages from the likes of Hannah Tetteh, Minister of Trade and Industry as well as a representative of the Governor of Bayelsa State. There were also musical performances by Ben Brako, Shariffa Gunu, Edge and J Martins,as well as a fashion show by Exotique Modeling Agency.

left: Actress brenda osei

The first batch of nominees announced raised some concerns for the Ghanaian audiences when there was no mention of any of the 18 entries from Ghana. However, at the turn of the night Ghana came out tops with 11 nominations for ‘I Sing of a well’, 8 for ‘Perfect Picture’, 3 for ‘A Sting in A tale’ and 5 for ‘Heart of Men’. Nigeria’s ‘Figurine’ also had a strong showing with 9 nominations. The main awards ceremony will be held in Bayelsa State, Nigeria on April 10.

Here is the full list of nominees:

BEST DOCUMENTARY
1. Wanba Ngoma (Tanzania)
2. Peace Wanted Alive (Kenya)
3. Bariga Boys(Nigeria)
4. En quette d’identite (Burkina Faso)
5. Innovating for Africa (Nigeria)

Akorfa Asiedu nominated for Best Actress (Soraya in I sing of a well)

BEST SHORT FILM
1. Mahala – (Mozambique)
2. The Abbys Boys –(South Africa)
3. The Painter – (Uganda)
4. Suara La – (Nigeria)
5. The Camera (Nigeria)

BEST ANIMATION
1. Hanayns Shoe (Egypt)
2. Adventure of Alayo (Nigeria)
3. Zoodo – (Burkina Faso)
4. Lyrics – (Algeria)
5. One Step of Love (Algeria)

BEST FILM BY AN AFRICAN FILMMAKER IN DIASPORA

1. Soul Diaspora
2. Okra Principle
3. China Wahala
4. Crunch

BEST FILM IN AFRICAN LANGUAGE
1. Omo Iya Kan – (Nigeria)
2. Aldeweden – (Ethiopia)
3. Togetherness Supreme – (Kenya)
4. Imani – (Uganda)
5. Game of my life – (South Africa)

HEART OF AFRICA AWARD FOR BEST FILM FROM NIGERIA
1. Nnenda by Izu Ojukwu
2. Freedom in Chain by Bond Emeruwa and Fred Amata
3. The Child by Izu Ojukwu
4. Figurine by Kunle Afolayan
5. High Blood Pressure by Teco Benson

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND
1. The Tenant
2. Season of a life
3. Perfect Picture
4. I sing of a well
5. Soul Diaspora

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING
1. Season of a life
2. The Child
3. Perfect Picture
4. Heart of Men
5. Lilies of the Ghetto

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN ART DIRECTION
1. I sing of a well
2. Fulani
3. The Child
4. Figurine
5. Imani

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKE-UP

1. Heart of Men
2. The Child
3. The King is Mine
4. I sing of a well
5. Fulani

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN COSTUME
1. Perfect Picture
2. Prince’s bride
3. The Child
4. I sing of a well
5. Lilies of the Ghetto

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN VISUAL EFFECT
1. The Child
2. Figurine
3. A sting in a tale
4. Fulani
5. Heart of Men

Best ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK
1. Seasons of a life
2. Imani
3. A sting in a tale
4. The Child
5. Figurine

BEST PERFORMANCE BY A CHILD ACTOR
1. Teddy Onyago and Bill Oloo- Togetherness Supreme
2. Tobi Oboli – The Figurine
3. Feyisola Ewulomi – Champions of our Time
4. Treasure Obasi – Champions of our Time
5. Mfanafuthi Magudulela – Game of my life

MOST PROMISING ACTRESS
1. Martha Kisaka – Togetherness Supreme
2. Chelsea Eze – Silent Scandal
3. Martha Ankomah – Sins of the Soul
4. Ashionye Michelle Ugboh- Jungle Ride
5. Rahema Nanfuka – Imani

MOST PROMISING ACTOR

1. Wilson Maina – Togetherness Supreme (Kenya)
2. Wale Ojo – The Child (Nigeria)
3. John Dumelo – Heart of men (Ghana)
4. Pethro Tumba Mbole – A game of my life (South Africa)
5. Sunny Chikezie – Lilies of the Ghetto (Nigeria)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
1. Godwin Kotey- I sing of a well
2. Francis Duru – Nnenda
3. Yemi Blaq – High Blood Pressure
4. Adjatey Anang – The Perfect Picture

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
1. Doris Sakitey – A sting in a Tale
2. Funlola Aoifeyebi-Raimi – Figurine
3. Tapiwa Gwaza – Seasons of a life
4. Yvonne Nelson – Heart of Men

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
1. Bimbo Akintola- Freedom in Chains
2. Jackie Apia, Lydia Farson and Naa Ashoku Mensa-Doku – The Perfect Picture
3. Stephanie Okereke- Nnenda
4. Flora Suya – Season of a life
5. Akofa Edjeani Asiedu – I sing of a well

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
1. Lucky Ejim – The Tenant
2. Majid Michael – Sin of a soul
3. Ramsey Noah – The Figurine
4. Odera Ozoka – Soul Diaspora
5. John Osie Tutu Agyeman – I Sing of a well

BEST SCREENPLAY
1. Season of a life
2. The Tenant
3. Freedom In chains
4. Guilty Pleasure
5. I sing of a well

AMAA ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY
1. The Perfect Picture
2. Figurine
3. I sing of a well
4. The Child
5. The Tenant

BEST PICTURE
1. Seasons of a life (Malawi)
2. The tenant (Nigeria)
3. The Perfect Picture (Ghana)
4. The Figurine (Nigeria)
5. I sing of a well (Ghana)

BEST DIRECTOR
1. Shemu Joyah- Seasons of a life
2. Shirley Frimpong-Manso- The Perfect Picture
3. Kunle Afolayan – Figurine
4. Leila Jewel Djansi – I sing of a well
5. Jude Idada and Lucky Ejim – The Tenant

Africa has not been left out of the global surge of hip hop music and culture; and the strong presence of rap music/hip hop popularly known as hiplife in the nominations for the 11th Annual Ghana Music Awards proves the growing impact on Ghanaian music.

The nominations were announced on February 26, and Sarkodie, touted as the fastest rapper led the pack with 8 nominations including artist of the year and song of the year. Fellow hiplife artists Ayigbe Edem, 4X4, and Bradez had 6, 5 and 5 nominations respectively.

The well attended event that saw performances from the likes of Kwabena Kwabena, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Celestine Donkor, Ohemaa Mercy and Wutah ended up with the big reveal of nominees. The complete list of nominees is as follows:

Artist of the year

4×4

Wutah

Ohemaa Mercy

Sarkodie

Becca

Bradez

Most popular song of the year

Kotosa by Wutah

Baby by Sarkodie

Simple byBradez

Aseda by Ernest Opoku

World Trade Center by 4×4

Discovery of the year

DSP Kofi Sarpong

Mimi

Sarkodie

Ayigbe Edem

OJ Blaq

Hip hop /hiplife song of the year

Kasiebo by Obrafour

The Game by Obour

Ringtone by Tinny

You Dey Craze by Ayigbe Edem

Breathe by Kweku T & D Black

Baby by Sarkodie

Hip hop/hiplife artist of the year

Sarkodie

4×4

Bradez

Ayigbe Edem

Tinny

Gospel Song of the year

Ensie wo yie Diana Hamilton

Okyeso Nyame Florence Obinim

Aseda Ernest Opoku

Wo Beye Kesse Ohemaa Mercy

Ayeyi Ndwom DSP Kofi Sarpong

Supernatural Celestine Donkor

Gospel Artist of the year

Ohema Mercy

Celestine Donkor

Florence Obinim

Ernest Opoku

DSP Kofi Sarpong

Highlife song of the year

Afia Donkor by Kofi B

Daa Ke Daa by Becca

Sika by Daddy Lumba

Kotosa by Wutah

Born to win by King David

Highlife artist of the year

Kofi B

Daddy Lumba

Kofi Nti

King David

Afro-pop Song of the year

Run away by Irene Logan

World Trade Center by 4×4

Swagger by Ruff &Smooth

Simple by Bradez

I think I like Am by VIP

Reggae Song of the year

Jah will be there by Wutah

Adiepena by Kojo Antwi

Mama Africa by Black Prophet

Best Collaboration of the year

Run Away by Irene & Asem

Baby by Sarkodie & Mugeez

The Game by Obour & Okyeame Kwame

You dey Craze by Edem/Sarkodie/Kwaw Kesse

Kasiebo by Obrafour & Guru

Best Rapper of the year

Sarkodie

Obrafour

Kwaku T

Edem

Bradez

Tinny

African artiste of the year

Bracket- Nigeria

Wande Coal- Nigeria

Flavour- Nigeria

Midnight Crew – Nigeria

Jozi- South Africa

Record of the year

Burning Desire- Wutah

Daa Ke Daa- Becca

Run Away – Irene Logan and Asem

Love Zone- Jon Germain

Nyonorvidade – Ayigbe Edem

Album of the Year

Sika – Daddy Lumba

Makye- Sarkodie

Burning desire- Wutah

World Trade Center- 4×4

Volta Regime- Ayigbe Edem

Song writer of the year

Daa ke Daa- Kwabena Akwaboa Jnr

Burning Desire- Wutah

Run Away- Asem

Adiepena- Kojo Antwi

Kasiebo- Obrafour

Best Male Vocal performance

PV of Wutah

Kwasie Pee

Kofi B

Ernest Opoku Jnr

Kojo Antwi

Best Female Vocal Performance

Becca

Irene Logan

Cynthia of Daughter of Glorious Jesus

Celestine Donkor

Ohemaa Mercy

Winners would be announced at the Ghana Music Awards ceremony slated for the Accra Conference Centre (Dome) on Saturday April 10. Other industry awards on the night would include: best music video, traditional artist of the year, instrumentalist of the year, MUSIGA merit award, producer of the year and the World Bank best music for development.

The Ghana Music Awards would be marked by a number of activities leading to the main event. This includes awards dialogue and workshop, nominees jam at Takoradi Polytechnic Park on March 6. View Photos

Standing at an impressive 6.2 ft and weighing 200 lbs with 2 to 3 percent body fat, world renowned cover fitness model, Obi Obadike continues to enjoy his status as one of the most ripped fitness models in the world. The Knoxville, Tennessee-born fitness cover favourite moved to Southern California at age 2 and has lived there for his whole life. Both of Obi’s parents were born in Nigeria and he has been there to visit family at three or four times in his life.

Fitness has always been a part of Obi’s life as he grew up playing basketball, football and running the tracks. He attended Cal State Fullerton on a track scholarship and while there, he broke every major track school record there. He was the school record holder in the 100, 200 meters and 400 relay. He also attained athlete of the year honors at the school and won all Big West Conference Honors two years in a row. “My love for fitness and staying in shape came from playing competitive sports in school. I enjoyed lifting weights ever since my senior year in high school and I got really addicted to working out,” says Obi.

His commitment to staying fit definitely paid off as he is regarded today as one of the best black fitness models in the industry. Obi is the first black model to land a cover for a major Canadian fitness magazine in Inside Fitness; he was the first American fitness model to grace the cover of the only natural bodybuilding and fitness magazine in Australian Natural Bodz; he landed more international supplement ad campaigns than any fitness model or bodybuilder in 2009; he was one of top three most published fitness models for 2009; he became the first American male fitness model to grace the cover of a middle eastern bodybuilding magazine; he was the first American male fitness model to land a European sports ad meal campaign; the first American male fitness model to be featured in Oxygen, Australia; Part of the first African-American male and female on a U.S. fitness cover together among several other accolades.

Jamati Online caught up with the celebrity fitness model to find out more about his work, and to pick up some tips on staying fit and in shape.
What exactly does being a fitness model entail?

Being a fitness model is about always being in shape for photo-shoots, magazine opportunities and fitness auditions. If you are not in shape at all times you will lose out on many fitness modeling opportunities. As a fitness model, because the job requires you to be fit you generally should follow a healthy diet and consistent training program. Most of regular society wants to have a fitness model body because it is an attainable look as well as a physique that is inspirational to many.
How long have you been doing it and how did it start?

I’ve been involved in sports modeling since 1994 but I broke into the fitness modeling industry in April of 2008. I got my first start through the help of Fitness Icon Clark Bartram who is considered one of the greatest fitness models ever. He shared with me many of his contacts in the industry and gave me mentorship on how to attain success in the fitness industry. With his help and my hard work I’ve been really blessed to have attained more success than any fitness model in the industry the last 2 years.
Why did you decide to get into fitness modeling?

One of the things that I observed in this fitness industry is that there were no African-American male fitness models really on fitness covers and I wanted to change that and be the guy that could break that cycle and open doors for other black fitness models. I am the first black male fitness model to land multiple fitness covers in a year and I’ve landed more international fitness covers than any other black fitness model. I’ve broken many color barriers in this industry and I believe I will be responsible for making the road much easier for many ethnic fitness models coming up in this industry. So the two reasons why I got into the industry are this: in addition, I wanted to use my success a top fitness model and writer to help educate people to get into better shape all over the world on health and fitness.

Why did you give up sprinting?

I gave up sprinting at a really tender age of 24 because I had so many hamstring injuries in college and after college. I really believe I was talented enough to compete at the world class level but I had so many leg injuries that prevented me from competing at that next level.

What have been some of the major projects that you have done?

The biggest project that I did in 2009 was being featured in the national Weider X Factor commercial which is currently playing all over the United States and Canada. That was a very big fitness commercial to land in the United States. Honestly the biggest projects I’ve landed have been big National commercials for companies such as Gatorade, Mcdonald’s, GM car commercial as well as many others. I’ve done more than 11 national commercials spanning since 1994.
How did you earn the titled The Most Ripped Fitness Model in the World?

A writer from a very popular site called criticalbench.com said I was the most ripped fitness model in the world. I’ve had many people in the industry that have said this and I guess this title has taken a life of its own, honestly which is quite funny. I think the reason why I’ve ever been called the most ripped or one of the most ripped is because of the conditioning I consistently bring which is usually at 2 to 3 percent body-fat for photo-shoots. I do believe that I come in leaner than most fitness models out there in photo-shoots and many people in the industry have observed that so I guess that is why I have been referenced with that title.

What else do you do besides modeling?

I am a certified personal-trainer and a fitness columnist for several different national and international magazines. I am a columnist for Inside Fitness, Australian Natural Bodz, Physique Magazine, World Physique Magazine, American Natural Bodz and African-American Golfer’s Digest.

What is a routine day like for you?

A routine day for me is waking up and eating breakfast while I check email from fans and clients for an hour. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,  I am training clients and from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. I am training at the gym. At 7 p.m. I am eating dinner while attending to my online personal-training clients. Occasionally I may have fitness auditions or non-fitness auditions to go to during that timeframe of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How do you stay in shape?

I lift weights about 4 to 5 times a week and I perform my cardio about 3 times a week. My cardio consists of jogging about 3 miles a day at an 8 minute per mile pace. I alternate each week where I train 4 times a week one week and 5 times another week. I am very consistent in my routine and while I am weight-training it is always done in a super-setting method which allows me to burn calories at a rapid rate while training anerobically.

Do you use supplements?

I do use supplements to workout but it is very basic. I take a Whey Protein drink once a day and I take K-4 Kre-alkalyne for muscle growth, strength and endurance purposes. The international ad campaigns I’ve done were just for exposure and modeling purposes only. I am very cautious of what supplement companies I endorse in terms of being in ad campaigns that I don’t believe in. I am a clean athlete who has never taken a drug or steroid in his life and I am very proud to say that.

How challenging has it been for you to get on magazine covers?

I’ve been blessed to have been on covers all over the world. Honestly as a black fitness model it is very difficult getting on fitness covers in the United States. Unfortunately there are still some publishers that refuse to put a black male fitness model on their cover for fear that sales will drop. I would say there are at least 4 magazines in the U.S that have never even done it. In 2010 it is quite sad that there is still a little bit of discrimination in the fitness industry against ethnic fitness models. When I came in this industry it was quite simple and I wanted to be the fitness model to change all of that and to use my success to open doors for other fitness models of color. I really believe my success in this industry will eventually make it easier for other black fitness models that aspire to be a cover model. I do hope that 10 years down the line that this won’t be a discussion and that all fitness models will get the opportunity to grace a cover based on merit as opposed to ethnicity. I am really the only fitness model that has talked about this discrimination publicly in-depth in interviews.

What is the difference between a fitness model and a bodybuilder?

The difference is that a fitness model has a physique that is more athletic than a bodybuilder and is always in shape. A fitness model has no offseason and is built like an American football player or sprinter. Their physique is much more attainable and is more relatable to the mainstream of society. A fitness model is like a typical Men’s Health body. A bodybuilder has much more muscle than the average guy and is not as athletic as a fitness model. A bodybuilder has an offseason and is really only in shape only around competition time which would be one to two times a year whereas a fitness model is usually always lean and ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Are some particular body types easy to stay ripped or anyone can have one?

Everybody’s body is different in terms of how ripped they can get. Some people have such a fast metabolism and can eat anything and at times will never gain weight. And there are some people who have to eat healthy 7 days a week to get ripped. Honestly your God-given genetics dictates how hard you have to work out in the gym and how healthy you have to eat to accomplish your fitness goals.

What kind of food do you eat ,and what would you recommend?

I eat lots of chicken, turkey, brown rice. The main thing I tell people is to have a balanced diet of carbohydrates, protein and fats. Make sure you consume your carbs and fats within moderation so you don’t gain weight. Eating healthy is very important in staying lean. Make sure you minimize alcohol, soda, cake, cookies, bread, etc which are all stuff that is advantageous to someone gaining weight.

What basic advice would you give to someone who wants to have the body of a fitness model?

I would tell that person that you are not going to have a fitness model physique overnight. It takes hard work and dedication over a period of time to develop a body like a cover fitness model. Some people can attain that physique faster than other because of their genetics. If you eat right, train consistently then within time you can develop a fit lean fitness model physique but what I tell many people who email me is to be patient because it won’t happen overnight. Many people develop a better body after 30 because of the muscle maturity that they can attain after 30 years old. Everybody’s body is different in terms of how ripped they can get. Some people have such a fast metabolism and can eat anything and at times will never gain weight. And there are some people who have to eat healthy 7 days a week to get ripped. Honestly your God-given genetics dictates how hard you have to work out in the gym and how healthy you have to eat to accomplish your fitness goals.

Obi’s Tips to Staying Fit:

Basic exercises:

3 sets of 15 push-ups which works your chest, shoulder and triceps

3 sets of 15 repetitions of chair dips

3 sets of 15 exercises of sit-ups which works your abs

Some other exercises you can do is a basic bench press which works your chest, standing dumbbell curls which works your arms and lunges which works your legs.

The Do’s in Staying Fit:

Drink lots of water

Eat small meals a day which speeds up your metabolism

Be consistent

Believe in yourself

Remember that weight-training and cardio goes hand in hand

The don’ts in Staying Fit:

Don’t eat late at night

Don’t over-consume carbs

Don’t take shortcuts while working out

Don’t use the scale to measure yourself, use the mirror

Don’t over-train

 Click on this link to view more photos!

Ghanaian born fashion entrepreneur, Kwab (Kwabena) Asamoah continues to make waves in the United States through his Kustom Looks Clothier company. His classic styles, which have been embraced from corporate executives to star athletes and politicians, bring together the traditional art of custom clothes with a taste of modern tailoring. Kustom Look Clothier’s celebrity client list includes news anchor Leon Harris, head of Republicans Michael Steele, Brian Mitchell former NFL Football Athlete, TOP Black CEO Russell Wright to name a few.

The company is five years old now, and although Kwab has no background in fashion or tailoring, his eye for quality and details has seen his success in the industry soaring through the years.  He started the company in his bedroom and was able to move into a studio by the following year until he finally opened his own shop last January in downtown Silver Springs, MD. This year, he would be working on a second store in Capitol Hill, right next to the US Congress and hopefully opening a third shop in his home country Ghana.

Kwab was born and raised in Kumasi and has been living in the States for over 30, where he runs the fashion line that makes custom cloths for men and ladies as well as children. Jamati online caught up with him earlier this year on a visit to Ghana to find out more about his fashion line and his future plans for fashion in Ghana.

Jamati: How did it start?

The company is five years old. My background is in engineering and physics and so it wasn’t anything that I dreamt about but the entrepreneur in me was interested in having his own business. I have been trying to have my own company since I was 21, and it was in fashion where it worked out. I started the company in my bedroom and then we were able to move into a studio by a year later and we opened the shop last January.

Jamati: What is your clientele base like?

We represent some prominent professionals in the Washington metropolitan area including the head of the republicans, Michael Steele and some professional athletes. Most of our clients are broadcasters, as a matter of fact in the DC area; we represent more people on TV than anybody else. Actually, each night there is someone on TV wearing one of our suits, from men to women. The number one news anchor in the DC area, Leon Harris who has worked for CNN wears our suits daily. We represent some 10% of top 100 black businesses in the US, from executives down the ladder. We have clients that make an annual income in excesses of $100,000 upwards.  Starting the company, our biggest trend was to serve each client directly and individually so we don’t make anything that is a general size.  Everything is made 100% by hand and customized to each individual person. So it takes 2-3 weeks to make a garment but we feel that it is the best garment that the client has. And what we have seen is that our clients tend to wear our clothes to the most important occasions and meetings.

Jamati: How does Kustom Looks Clothier operate?

We have our own factory in Bangkok, Thailand; we have over 15 tailors and two directors. From there the items are shipped to our showroom in Silver Spring and we distribute to clients within the West Coast. Those within the Washington area are able to come to our showroom, where we have a master tailor (also from Ghana) always available to handle alterations, adjustments and any fittings that may be conducted. We have 3 sales reps and a Vice President of Marketing.  We also produce fashion shows so beyond the garments we market and coordinate events.  We are a full service company that also provide tailoring and alterations for garments that we didn’t make; so clients on the streets can bring in a garment from their closet and we cut and tailor it.

Jamati: What are the new trends in fashion?

The main thing that I am seeing now is that people are getting back to dress. Up to about 2007, it was pretty urban so we saw people in a lot of jeans and a lot t-shirts but those things are starting to change now. Even in the hip-hop arena we now see people wearing jeans and they wear it with a sport jacket. The days are starting to come in which the African-American community is starting to realize that with people like President Barack Obama in different positions, they have to be in a position to address their looks. So people are dressing and looking better. I think Obama has set a different precedence for the African-American race and I think we are taking a different conscience about our appearance, which is great for us because people are getting back to the button-up shirts, getting into jackets and starting to realize the value of the suit. The days that the brotherhood was about who is the hippest, the hardest or who is the man, has now switched to who is the smartest, who is the most educated or who is the most successful? So all these are now coming into fashion.

Jamati: So your clients are generally blacks

I would say about 90% of our clients are Africa-Americans mainly because when we started the company, I lived at Prince Georgia County, which is the most affluent county for African-Americans. So when I started the company, majority of my clientele were those in my surroundings. Since we moved to Silver Spring, we have been able to diversify our products and we now have different races that wear our garments. So we expect that trend to continue with us moving into DC and Capitol Hill, we are picking more Congressional folks, and we know that not many of them are black.

Jamati: Have you tried to incorporate African fabrics or motifs in your designs?

Not really, what I am attempting to work on is to take the styles that we see in Africa and put it into more European centered garments.  What I mean is that a lot of ladies back home in Africa wear beautiful pieces from skirts to tops and those particular styles I think would translate well in America. However the American is more conservative with business so he wouldn’t wear the local prints from Africa; it’s a little bit more colourful and cheerful than he would want in the workplace. So if we can take the same style and give it to them in a grey, black or blue, they will wear it. That’s going to be one of the trends I am going to look into for 2010. We will try to take the styles from Africa and put it with the more universal European fabrics and see if we can get that out for a fashion show.

Jamati: What should we expect from Kustom Looks?

They should expect the best 100% hand-made garments as we continue to rise to the top. I believe 110% in our product and I believe that it would stand against any other product out there.  What we are looking forward to doing is to get our mother country to know about our product and to deliver it there. Our friends and family don’t have to travel abroad to get quality products. What we would rather do is to bring it to them so it becomes homegrown and available in Ghana. We want to show not only Ghana but the rest of the western hemisphere what we can do.

Nigerian television is growing fast and one of the biggest forces to reckon with is Producer /Director, Greg Odutayo. Together with his wife, Debbie Odutatyo, their Royal Roots Production Company has made an impressionable mark on the Nigerian television landscape and continues to set the bar in quality TV productions in Nigeria and across West Africa.

Royal Roots has emerged from the early days of radio production and event management into a formidable force in television across Africa. Their first Television content was a cooking programme, ‘Global Cuisine’ and after that came the phenomenal comedy series, ‘House A-Part’ which won Royal Roots a lot of accolades. With their imprint of quality clearly becoming evident, they received some funding from the French Film Fund to produce a 26 episode series ‘Tides of Fate’.  Soon came a much bigger break when M-Net commissioned them to produce the hit family drama series, ‘Edge of Paradise’. M-Net wanted to commission one programme but found Greg’s proposals too irresistible so they commissioned two programmes – ‘Doctors Quarters’ and ‘Edge of Paradise’.  Fully aware of the huge potential of reaching thousands of homes across Africa via M-Net, Greg and his team gave Edge of Paradise all that they had.

“We bought the best available equipment and assembled a close knit and professional team. By the time we finished 26 episodes, we barely made any money but we were equipped to produce wonderful programmes and to top it all, we were asked to do a Season 2. That was the icing on the cake”, comments Greg.  Edge of Paradise got nominated at the 47th Monte Carlo Television Festival alongside series like ‘Desperate Housewives’, ‘Lost’, and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. It lost the award ‘Lost’ but went on to clear almost all available Television Awards in Nigeria.

Royal Roots has developed several TV content which have been syndicated across Africa, as well as established an outreach in Ghana.  Jamati online got in touch with outspoken Greg Odutayo, who is also the President of National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) to talk about his journey, the future of television in Nigeria, challenges working with a Ghanaian cast, funding among other very engaging topics.

You seem to have found your niche in producing sitcoms. What draws you to comedy?
Let’s be realistic, people face challenges everyday in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The challenges of everyday living are quite daunting so television for many people is to relax and acts as an elixir. Entertainment is key before information and education. Sitcoms achieve this for me, because we are thinking of the needs of the audience first and foremost. We make them laugh at other people’s situation and circumstances and then relate it to themselves later. We choose sitcoms particularly because of the exigencies of recording. Sincerely because of the way we like to work – having 100% control of our environment – sitcoms is the way for us. We work conveniently in one situation.

How did it all start?
Royal Roots is 13 years old now, so we have been at it for a while. The dream was long before that. It was systematically plotted but at the precise time that God wanted this to happen, we got commissioned for a 26 episode radio programme for a distillery in Nigeria. That was the big beginning for us. Before then, we were doing commercials and promos – little things here and there. We also did a lot of Events Management for big projects and carved a niche for ourselves in this sector. So the beginning was radio. I have a deep passion for radio because you can really have fun with the medium. From there we made some money and bought our first set of television production equipment. My deep belief is that for you to enjoy Television production and do it with all the attentions and details that we desire, you need to own your own equipment. This way you are not in a crazy hurry due to budgeting constraint. You are able to be creative.

What are some of the other productions that you have done?
I also had the privilege of producing and directing ‘Deal or No Deal Nigeria’. We were commissioned by MNET and ENDEMOL South Africa. ‘DOND Nigeria’ was produced by an entirely Nigerian crew headed by me and my wonderful wife and we did well. DOND was another great experience for us. We could feel the fear from the South African guys as ENDEMOL does not usually allow other people to do their formats but we put in everything and in the end it was a huge success. After that we started our Ghanaian outreach of Royal Roots named Hot Shot Production. Hot Shot produced ‘Soul Sistas’ and ‘About to Wed’; and we have since produced ‘My Mum & I’. I think it’s the first TV content to be produced on High Definition in sub Saharan Africa. I stand to be corrected.

Which is your favourite production so far?
My obvious favourite will definitely be “Edge of Paradise”. We kicked some ass with that production.

Which has been your most challenging?
The most challenging was ‘My Mum & I’, because we had become tired of the entire accolade from Edge of Paradise and we wanted to do something that will surpass that. It was tough but I think we were able to achieve that.  We are still waiting for the audience to judge.

What inspires or influences your work in television?
I draw on inspirations like the erstwhile ‘Village Headmaster’, ‘Cock crow at Dawn’ which ran in Nigeria in the nineties. I also draw a lot from sitcoms like ‘Cosby’,’ Two and a Half Men’, ‘Desperate Housewives’ etc.  We have sought to raise the bar of TV production where ever we find ourselves. Quality is our watchword in our productions as we strive to do things differently from the way everybody else works. It’s been challenging but fulfilling.

What is your production team like and how do you ensure that you remain relevant in television?
We have been working with about the same production team we started with. People come in and go but we hope that they imbibe our values. It is a little difficult to work with us in Royal Roots because of our attention to details. Therefore, to work with us, you have to probably be trained in the way we will work. It is easy to reach the top than to stay there. With all sense of humility, we are on top of our game but to remain there, we have to constantly re-invent ourselves. We work very hard as a team but our values are the same.
How does the husband and wife team work for you and Debbie?

We work extremely well. It’s not just a wife working with her husband; it is rather that I have a bloody good producer working with me. I am allowed to create because producing is taken care of. We have boundaries and we both work within the boundaries. In addition, we are best of friends. We do not carry our home to work and vice versa. So it’s all cool.
Do you get sponsorship for your productions?
It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than to get sponsorship for productions. We place a lot of emphasis on our value system in Royal Roots as such; we cannot bribe our way through. We will not do this. Sponsorship in Nigeria largely is dependent on the number of asses you can lick and we cannot do that. We would rather have our work speak for us. Until sponsors learn to call pitches when they want to commission programmes and ensure best practices in such commissioning, we will continue to churn out low quality productions. So basically, we run it as a business, we invest our own money and resources in producing, buy airtime from our stations (I like to call them airtime vendors – because that is all they do – vend airtime) and put it on air. We then source spot support for the programmes. It is tough but what can we do? We have had the grace of God on our side. However, I will definitely welcome another commissioning as we had with M-Net. We will like that very much but until then, we soldier on.

How would you describe the state of television in Nigeria currently?
The Television industry in Nigeria is on a roll on the creative side. There are a lot of quality programmes being churned out, although the crappy ones are also there side by side. There is still a lot of room for improvement. This is occasioned by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) rule that stipulates that all stations in Nigeria must only run local content programmes from 7pm – 10PM everyday. This is prime time in Nigeria and it has somewhat driven away the foreign soaps etc to other times. We are however still far from the ideal, producer still have to pay through their noses for airtime and this is not good for creativity. This has to change for the industry to achieve true growth. Stations must go back to commissioning programmes. That is the way the industry must be structured. The risks borne by producer right now are monumental and unhealthy.

How many others countries show your programs?
All of our sitcoms have run in Ghana, because Hot Shot and Royal Roots have worked together seamlessly. We run in Kenya, we are on Africa Magic (which runs all over Africa), and in the UK. We have opened discussions with many other countries but many broadcasters are not willing to pay. They come up with a whole lot of crap about payment ceilings. They actually want to pay the same rate as they pay for other low quality programmes and that is not good for us. We have invested a lot into our programmes and as such always only sell to those who appreciate our quality and are ready to pay for it.

Are you working on new productions currently?
We just rounded up shoot on 78 new episodes of ‘About to Wed’. We are also starting in February at least 52 new episodes of ‘My Mum & I’. We also have a couple of franchise for Nigeria and Ghana – ‘Identity’ – a game show. It’s going to be very exciting. We also have Nigeria & Ghana’s Next Producer, a franchise from NBC’s ‘America’s Next Producer’, and a lot more. We are on the road to being West Africa’s No 1 when it comes to Content Creation, Production and Studios. We are working hard at achieving that.

Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie unveiled as one of the pioneering African artists to join world class artists on Akon’s fast growing music label, Konvict Music. On Saturday January 6, Konvict Music Africa made it official by announcing the fastest rapper in Ghana as the proud new signee on a label that seeks to tap into the rich and diverse music talent that Africa has, and projecting or promoting these talents to an international audience.

Babs and Sarkodie

Answering questions from the press, Babs, the President of Konvict International assured Ghanaians that the deal is real and together with the Konvict Music brand, he would make an international artist out of Sarkodie without changing too much about the artist. Babs cited the challenges of doing music in Africa and promoting it in the international market; with particular mention of the lack of support from fellow Ghanaians.

Sarkodie on his part said he was excited about the potentials of the record deal and hoped that everything would turn out right. He said that he has no doubts about Babs, and all he can do is to wait patiently believing that Konvict Music Africa would help him to achieve his dreams. It is however not clear whether Konvict Music Africa was or would be involved in the production of Sarkodie’s sophomore album, ‘Rapaholic’, which is set for release soon.

According Babs, who is a US-based Ghanaian entrepreneur responsible for the success story of Fubu Jeans and other businesses across Europe and America, Duncwills Entertainment, headed by ace radio presenter Dr Duncan remains as the managing label for Sarkodie. Babs was however quick to add that if the business of Duncwillls Entertainment hinders the business of Konvict Music Africa in any way with respects to Sarkodie, he would not hesitate to stop working with the label. According to Babs, Konvict Music Africa would operate in South Africa and Nigeria where their music industry is better structured.

Julius Ossom, A&R for Konvict Music Africa and also the publisher of Ghanamixtapes.com, hinted of an upcoming music seminar that would educate musicians and industry players about how to make the sector grow. The seminar would also serve as an opportunity to discover more talents for Konvict Music Africa. Details on the seminar would be made available in due course

Renowned Ghanaian  music video directors and multimedia company, Phamous People has launched its new reality TV series, Cinekrom Film Academy. The 13-episode, 45-minute reality show is aimed at training budding video producers and film buffs to sharpen their talent in video and film production. The experience would include one-on-one interactions and working experiences with renowned and award winning directors, Gerald ‘Ogee’ Gyimah, George ‘Gyo’ Gyimah of Phamous People.

(center) Gerald Gyimah (photo:ameyaw debrah)

Cinekrom Film Academy will highlight the complicated but thrilling process of creating a music video or short film, with the driving values of encapsulating freedom, serenity, education, interaction, entertainment, privacy, culture and originality. Phamous People believe that the concept for the reality series holds an avenue to unearth talent for the film and media industry in Ghana.

Entrants of Cinekrom Film Academy will be asked to produce, direct and film a subject of their choice. Over the course of four weeks, a total of 250 entrants will be re-screened to select 125. There will be further reductions to 50 and then to the final 15, who will enter the academy ‘house’. There will be three teams of 5 and each team would be equipped with cameras, lighting and sound equipment with which they would film their subjects/themes of choice. The teams would comprise a director, DOP, sound, editor and producer. They would undertake a variety of public centered activities.

The teams would have a week to produce a short film production piece which would be judged by a panel of industry experts. Some special awards in the following categories would be handed out at the end of the series namely: best theme, most promising film, most promising production, most promising team member. Award winners will benefit from coaching interactions and knowledge sharing from both local and foreign film directors. Some of the international directors expected to partake in the project are Gill Green and Martin Lindberg.

The 13 episode first season will comprise 5 total productions and 4 tasks leading up to the grand finale. The task would include shooting music videos for famous artists; shooting a 30-second commercial for major sponsors; shooting a 3 minute documentary; and shooting a short film. According to Phamous People, the grand objective is to gradually open the reality series to entries from Nigeria, South Africa, Gabon and other African countries.

Cinekrom Film Academy is sponsored by Glo and will air on TV3. The Academy house would be located in the Mampong, Video City. Application forms are available on campuses, Silverbird Lifestyles stores, TV3 and other selected depots. Visit Cinekrom Film Academy for more details.