Join Women around the World Who Are Ready to Impact Africa and Beyond!

5^th INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF AFRICAN WOMEN

GLOBAL WOMEN: OUR IMPACT ON AFRICA AND BEYOND!

NOVEMBER 12-17, 2012

Cacablanca City of MOROCCO

The International Congress of African women, a two days training and 2 days   Congress held in Casablanca will address the theme “Global women: Our impact on Africa and beyond!”The agenda focuses on innovation and sustainable development and includes sessions on Entrepreneurship, Health and Education.(Sessions will be held in English and French).

 Le Royal Mansour Méridien

This Congress will gather more than 500 women and men leaders in Morocco and all over the world, from all sectors of the economy and society, including business, politics, law, media, and partnerships. Participants will network and discuss the crucial challenges for Africa and the input of the Diasporas.

Africa Femmes Performantes’ Experts will provide abundance of the tools, strategies and resources to help people get unstuck, focused to get their big goals accomplished.

You are invited to attend the African Women of Excellency Awards Dinner to be held November Friday 16, 2012 in the prestigious lounge of the Royal Mansour Meridien Casablanca. 30 women will receive the Awards from an official of the Kingdom of Morocco. The purpose of the Awards is to provide continental recognition to African’s women entrepreneurs, whose successful businesses and achievements contribute so much to the African and global economies as well as to their national communities.

PARTNERS

2012 Conference Registration is now open

General Registration includes all general & breakout sessions with all of our speakers and guests of honor.

Check out our website for more information on logistics and accommodation.

Click on www.femmesperformantes.com for more information about the program and registrations or contact us at:  annie@femmesperformantes.com orcasablanca@femmesperformantes.com  Tel: +1 571 606 5215 or + 1240 7013972

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History

The need to establish an organization to champion the rights of girl children in Zimbabwe was perceived in 1998 by Betty Makoni after listening to the horrifying experiences of ten of her female students. Her personal experiences of abuse as a child further fueled her determination. An informal discussion group was subsequently created to provide a safe forum for girls to meet and talk freely about their problems and devise possible solutions. This initial group became the first girls’ empowerment club in Zimbabwe.

In March of 1999 Girl Child Network (GCN) was formally established with the specific mandate to be a voice for the voiceless, particularly school-aged girls between the ages of 0 – 16-years-old. The organization was born out of the helplessness and hopelessness of the girl child in Zimbabwe, with the objective to assist girls in their quest for emancipation. GCN set out to advocate on behalf of girls and to empower them to speak out when their rights were being violated. Therein the previously forgotten girl child was able to highlight her plight regarding sensitive issues like rape, HIV/AIDS, forced marriages, premarital sex and also effectively communicate her hopes and aspirations.

By the end of 1999, there were at least 10 active clubs in Chitungwiza, and in 2000 GCN began building Girls Empowerment Villages that served as ‘safe houses’ where survivors of rape and sexual abuse could seek refuge and rehabilitation. To break the silence, the founding members, 500 girls, and a few gender-sensitive men, women and boys undertook a 17-day march against child sexual abuse, covering 290 kilometers from Chitungwiza to Mutare, proving itself a true champion of girls` rights.

In 2006 GCN was firmly established in Zimbabwe and indeed became a household name. By July 2006, over 30,000 girls belonged to some 500 GCNW clubs in Zimbabwe, spread over 35 of Zimbabwe’s 58 districts. Today, the number of girls joining GCNW has grown and many girls` clubs and initiatives, with the purpose of fundraising on behalf of girls, are sprouting up around the globe with over 900 girls’ empowerment clubs in Africa alone. Other countries with clubs involved or affiliated with GCNW include Uganda, Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland, Ethiopia, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. Girls everywhere are taking the initiative and mobilizing to defend their rights. Clearly, girl child empowerment is spreading like wildfire.

The idea to expand GCN into Girl Child Network Worldwide (GCNW) was conceived in September 2007 by Betty Makoni, and current US-based trustee Leanne Grossman who started fundraising projects to support girls in Zimbabwe who had fallen into disastrous situations for which no one immediately and effectively mobilized. This had a huge impact as the assistance benefitted 160 girls over a three-month period.

GCNW replicates a best practice model that has secured 26 global awards for excellence, innovation, and effectiveness in the delivery of girls` empowerment programs at the local grassroots level. It is a globally acclaimed organization anchored in many parts of the world. It stands as a great inspiration to girls and women who want to actualize their full potential. By taking a unique empowerment and proactive rather than welfarist or reactive approach, GCNW motivates girls to spearhead their own liberation.

The GCNW Empowerment Model has worked very well in Zimbabwe and in other parts of Africa, however, its transformation into GCNW comes at a time when its founding members strongly feel an international platform would unite girls in their activism and allow them to speak out with one well coordinated voice, ensuring a clear worldwide leadership and solidarity on issues affecting the girl child. GCNW is meant to be the centre of coordination and learning, and to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and resources.

Vision

We envision a world where girls everywhere are empowered and enjoy their right to walk in the fullness of their potential.

Mission

GCNW supports and promotes girls’ rights, empowerment, and education by reaching out to and advancing the circumstances of girls wherever they are economically deprived, at risk of abuse, subject to harmful cultural practices, or living in areas of instability. GCNW funds small grants for girls to finish school, move out of forced sex work or early marriages and start projects to support themselves. GCNW is the training center for new GCN clubs emerging around the world.

Why We Are Unique

Abuse of young girls recognizes no borders, cultures, creed, or color. It is all around us, representing massive loss of human potential as well as a gross violation of human rights. In order to effectively combat these atrocities, GCNW takes a unique empowerment and proactive rather than a welfarist or reactive approach, and in so doing acknowledges and brings forth the inherent strength and power within every girl child. The organization has emerged out of the exploitive personal experiences undergone by girls and women around the world, and the resulting experience, passion, and commitment makes it possible to move seamlessly from the African village to the global village.

Principles and Values

GCNW continues to accomplish its mission through implementing our core principles:

1. Integrity— we deliver our programs with truth and openness and know we must remain accountable at all times. Everything we say and do must show that we are open and clean in our words and deeds.
2. Innovation— new and unique approaches are needed in order to effectively prevent and combat the exploitation of girl children and to aid in the rehabilitation process.
3. Passion— we do everything from the heart. Our work inspires and is inspired by our personal stories and the stories of the girls we represent.
4. Commitment— we started as volunteers and we will commit our time and resources above what others contribute.
5. Excellency— We must be the best in whatever we do. No part of our work is insignificantly done.
6. Action— we continually strive for concrete results through concrete action.
7. Empowerment— everyone we work with or target must be able to stand up for themselves, our role being to facilitate this process.
8. Empathy— the ability to have compassion for the circumstances of other human beings lies at the core of GCNW ideology, the belief being that if empathy were adequately cultivated within individuals and societies, compassion and mutual well-being would prevail. We work to deeply instil this ability in GCNW affiliates.
9. Teamwork— we believe the solution requires all of us playing a role and that each role is essential.
10. Learning and Sharing— As we generate and share knowledge it will make us stronger and better. We are an organization that promotes a learning culture.

Objectives

GCNW is the lead organization in the empowerment of girls worldwide. We empower formerly exploited girls and unleash their potential to become future women leaders. Our specific objectives are:

1. To identify and support girls who are at risk of, or who have survived gender based violence throughout the world.
2. To advance girls’ access to education, thereby encouraging the learning and growth of girls individually and collectively
3. To combat economic and social inequality so as to minimize gender based violence.

Awards Received

In recognition of Betty Makoni’s work through GCNW and her contribution to the global charity sector, she has received a total of 26 global and local awards for innovation, passion, and commitment:

Betty Makoni honored by Nicole Kidman

1. Newsweek announced Betty Makoni as one of 150 women who shake the world— 2011
2. Awarded African Achievers Award for Gender Equality- UK— May 2011
3. Honorary Award from Duke University of Medicine (Top Ten U.S. College)— 2011
4. Decade Child Rights Hero by the World Children’s Prize alongside Graca Machel and Nelson Mandela, Sweden — 2010
5. Interaction (Network of U.S. non-profits) Humanitarian Award 2010
6. The Women In Film and Television Awards, Los Angeles, U.S.— 2009
7. CNN Heroes Award for Protecting the Powerless— 2009
8. Giraffe Heroes Project Award —2009
9. Unsung Heroes of Compassion Award —2009
10. Amnesty International Ginetta Sagan Award for Women and Children’s Rights, U.S. —May 2008
11. Elected Ashoka Fellow- Global leading social entrepreneurs in recognition of Creative and Entrepreneurial Leadership and Commitment to Make Large-Scale Changes in Society— 2007
12. Drivers of Change Award- Southern Africa Trust —2007
13. Women Empowerment Award —2007
14. Runner Up-Director of the Year Award for NGO sector in Zimbabwe— 2008
15. Finalist One World Person of the Year— 2007
16. One of the Ten Outstanding Young People in the World by Junior Chamber International, a worldwide leadership organization for young leaders and professionals— 2007
17. Voted First out of Ten Outstanding Young in Zimbabwe —2007, The Junior Chamber Zimbabwe
18. Awarded by the World Children’s Prize for the Rights of the Child the Global Friends Award— 2007
19. World Children’s Prize, an equivalent to Nobel Prize for Children in— 2007, in a global vote by 5,2 million children in 85 countries
20. Awarded the Zimbabwe Institute of Management National Contribution Award— 2007, for Immense Contribution to the Nation
21. The United Nations Red Ribbon Award— 2006, For Addressing Gender Inequalities that Fuel the HIV/AIDS Epidemic
22. Hafkin Prize Award Finalist— 2003
23. Awarded for Creativity in Rural Life by the Women’s World Summit Foundation, Switzerland— 2003
24. Awarded prize for Prevention of Child Abuse, now renamed Prize for Prevention of Child Abuse— 2003
25. Small Technical Grant Award for the Most Innovative Grassroots Community Based Strategy— 2002
26. Certificate of Honor by Global Philanthropy Forum for being The Most Remarkable Person, U.S.— 2002

Find out how to get involved with the Girl Child Network.

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Yesterday marked the anniversary of Saatije Baartman’s remains finally being returned to Africa from the French government after 200 years. (May 6, 2002)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Baartman

Sarah was a slave to Dutch owners taken to Europe and put on display like an animal. Lovely poem by Diana Ferrrus

“I’ve come to take you home -
home, remember the veld?
the lush green grass beneath the big oak trees
the air is cool there and the sun does not burn.
I have made your bed at the foot of the hill,
your blankets are covered in buchu and mint,
the proteas stand in yellow and white
and the water in the stream chuckle sing-songs
as it hobbles along over little stones.

I have come to wrench you away -
away from the poking eyes
of the man-made monster
who lives in the dark
with his clutches of imperialism
who dissects your body bit by bit
who likens your soul to that of Satan
and declares himself the ultimate god!

I have come to soothe your heavy heart
I offer my bosom to your weary soul
I will cover your face with the palms of my hands
I will run my lips over lines in your neck
I will feast my eyes on the beauty of you
and I will sing for you
for I have come to bring you peace.

I have come to take you home
where the ancient mountains shout your name.
I have made your bed at the foot of the hill,
your blankets are covered in buchu and mint,
the proteas stand in yellow and white -
I have come to take you home
where I will sing for you
for you have brought me peace.”

Diana Ferrus, “A poem for Sarah Baartman”

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Bed, Breakfast & Bottom LineAn interview with Monique Greenwood, CEO of Akwaaba Mansion bed & breakfast in Brooklyn and other East Coast inns.

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Here is a round up of a few reactions from the blogsphere:

Sweden: the country where racism is just a joke:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2012/apr/18/racism-becoming-the-norm-sweden?CMP=twt_gu&fb_source=message

Racism and a living cake:
http://drdawgsblawg.ca/2012/04/racism-and-a-living-cake.shtml

5 ways to eat your racist cake and have it too:
http://www.micmovement.com/2012/04/5-ways-to-eat-your-racist-cake-have-it-too/

A Brussels-based anti-racism group has condemned Swedish culture minister Lena Adelsohn Liljeroth for cutting a “racist” cake at a Stockholm art museum, demanding the government issue a formal public apology:
http://www.thelocal.se/40356/20120419/

On another note from Scandinavia, it’s almost time for the Helsinki Film Festival

“Welcome to HAFF! African movies offer a great way to build bridges at a time when prejudice and racism are on the rise,” says festival director Wanjiku wa Ngugi:
http://www.haff.fi/en

Please add links to other posts about what happened in Sweden here.

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Michelle Obama is often considered the most influential and powerful woman in the world. From a fashion icon to a world leader in educational and fitness, the First Lady was brought up with humble beginnings. Her days spent in the South Side of Chicago in a one bedroom apartment helped shape her morals and virtues, thanks to her working class parents.

As a lawyer, sociologist and now political representative, her life has been a storied compendium of inspirational success and prosperity. Politicians and critiques might study and pick apart her decisions, while young girls might aim to emulate her success and even consider pursuing a J.D. degree of their own. No matter who critiques and analyzes the First Lady’s decisions, everyone will want to know something about her background.

Early Life

Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama and her brother Craig were raised in a one-bedroom apartment on the south side of Chicago. Although Michelle and her brother often shared makeshift rooms made from bed spreads in their one-bedroom apartment, their humble beginnings never kept the parents from sharing meals, playing games and spending time with their children.

While her and older brother were 16 months apart in age, they were often mistaken as fraternal twins. Looks aside, both brother and sister had extraordinary educational brilliance, earning spots among gifted classes and eventually venturing off to Princeton upon graduating from high school.

Educational Backgrounds

From sixth grade on, Michelle managed to excel in gifted classes, often earning top awards and placement among her peers. Soon after her primary education, she made her way to Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, a transit school for gifted students. At Princeton she studied sociology, earning her Bachelor of Arts and graduating cum laude in 1985.

Her social awareness, developed as a sociology major, may be the reason for her humanitarian work throughout the world, helping to feed starving children and provide educational needs for domestic students. Whatever the case, her education continued well after Princeton, attending Harvard Law and earning her J.D. in 1988.

It was at Princeton that Michelle’s political vigor can be seen taking shape. As a student at a predominantly white school, Michelle participated in protests across campus, demanding the need for more ethnically diverse students and staff members. While she and her fellow demonstrators put on a remakable display, they won small victors in convincing the heads of administration to hire and admit a more diverse group of people.

Post-Grad

Soon after graduation, Michelle managed to use her law skills to start up a career in civil service as the assistant commissioner of planning and development for then Mayor of Chicago Richard M. Daley. A few years after, she joined the Office of Public Allies for Chicago as an executive director helping to train adults develop skills for work in the public sector. In 1996, Michelle jumped ship and joined the University of Chicago as an associate dean where she helped develop the first community service program.

In 2002, she was appointed the executive director of community relations and external affairs, and later vice president for the University of Chicago Hospitals, where she still serves part time. In addition to her many accomplishments, Michelle manages to serve on six boards that range from the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.

As First Lady

During the 2008 presidential race, Michelle pledged to stay committed to public education and health issues facing American children and parents. As the 44^th First Lady, Michelle remains committed to her original goals, pledging assistance to support military families, bolster educational goals and stress educational importance among the youth.

Her Let’s Move! program aims to bring together educators, physicians and parents to help create awareness and fitness plans to curb child obesity. Through the program more parents have managed to become more socially aware of the food their children ingest and suggesting alternatives, exercise regiments.

Together with Dr. Jill Biden, the First Lady helped launch Joining Forces, a program that aims to help military families by streamlining all sectors of society to lend support to veterans. With her military family support, health goals and her assistance toward helping women balance careers and family life, The First Lady continues to make a change in America.

Today, she and her husband have two daughters, Maila and Sasha, and while the adjustment to life as the First Family has presented challenges, both Michelle and Barack try to make life normal for their daughters. Granted, being surrounded by Secret Service agents and being the daughters of two of the most powerful parents may present its challenges, but they’re all adjusting. Her decisions, programs and goals may all be critiqued by political science majors, but her life as the First Lady has helped change America.

Sources:

The White House

Biography

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When newly-liberated African American slaves attempted to enter the marketplace and exercise their rights as citizens of the United States in 1865, few, if any, Americans expected that, a century and a half later, the class divide between black and white Americans would be as wide as it is today. The United States has faced several potential key turning points in the status of African Americans over the course of its history, yet at each of these points the prevailing understanding of African Americans and their place in the economic and political fabric of the country was at best contested and resolved on the side of second-class citizenship.

The Oxford Handbook of African American Citizenship, 1865-Present seeks to answer the question of what the United States would look like today if, at the end of the Civil War, freed slaves had been granted full political, social and economic rights. It does so by tracing the historical evolution of African American experiences, from the dawn of Reconstruction onward, through the perspectives of sociology, political science, law, economics, education and psychology.

As a whole, the book is the first systematic study of the gap between promise and performance of African Americans since 1865. Over the course of thirty-four chapters, written by some of the most eminent scholars of African American studies and across every major social discipline, this handbook presents a full and powerful portrait of the particular hurdles faced by African Americans and the distinctive contributions African Americans have made to the development of U.S. institutions and culture. As such, it tracks where African Americans have been in order to better illuminate the path ahead.

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Ursula Burns - photo - Betts/Bloomberg

Burns replaces Xerox CEO Anne Mulcahy, 56, who told shareholders Thursday she would be retiring in July and had picked her lieutenant as her successor.

Burns climbed the corporate ladder at Xerox, beginning as a summer engineering intern in 1980 and rising to president of the printing giant in 2002.

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Photo: NASA/Markowitz/Stafford

From O Magazine

Maya Cooper is grinding wheat berries to make flour, which she will then use to make bread and pasta. But Cooper, 36, is not an ambitious home cook preparing brunch for friends. Instead, she’s ensconced in a pristine NASA food laboratory at Johnson Space Center in Houston, surrounded by freeze-drying machines and vacuum-packing equipment. Cooper’s mission: to figure out what to feed astronauts during their first trip to Mars, tentatively scheduled for the 2030s.

Read more on Oprah.com and the American Chemical Society’s website.

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Zakiya ‘Z’ Randall

Atlanta,GA (RPRN) 03/28/12 — Golfing star‘Z’ Zakiya Randall has beaten out more than 3,000 hopefuls to become a top finalist on Golf Channel’s popular golf reality series ‘Big Break’ TV show which will air on May 14,2012.

- The Creating Leaders in Sports Foundation is proud to announce that Golfing star ‘Z’ Zakiya Randall has added another feather to her cap by being chosen as one of the top finalists on Golf Channel’s reality show ‘Big Break’.

‘Z’ the golf sensation beat out 3,000 aspiring golfers to make her place in the top power list group of twelve. 

The 17th edition of ‘Big Break’ which is considered the ‘American Idol‘ of golf, will be shot at Atlantis, Paradise Island in the Bahamas, and have an all-female cast of talented golfers. It airs on May 14, 2012 on NBC’s Golf Channel. The participants vying for the top spot are at different stages of their golf careers. Zakiya is one of the youngest contestants on the show; and the youngest African-American female to ever be a Big Break finalist, she turned professional just prior to the show’s filming. She has already started generating a strong buzz owing to not just her sportsmanship but her talents off the golf course, as a fashion model, music producer, and public speaker.

Zakiya

Golfer ‘Z’ Zakiya Randall on Big Break

has many golf titles to her name. In her first year of competitive play, she won the AJGA(Atlanta Junior Golf Association)  championship event. In 2003, she was crowned champion at Florida’s ‘National Junior Tour Championship’ and two years later became the overall Georgia PGA Junior Tour Champion.

She was the first and youngest African-American female to Win 1st Place Medal in LPGA U.S. Women’s Open Qualifier in which she went to play with some of the best LPGA professionals on tour. She became the first female golfer to win the first place Championship Title on the Golf Channel Tour. Her winning streak is evident in her top leaderboard positions among elite-amateurs and professional golfers. Zakiya has been featured on CNN, PBS and Sports Illustrated. 

The young phenomenon is also a multi-tasker, managing her golf commitments with other interests. Zakiya is an enthusiastic philanthropist, attending charity events and playing a proactive role as a member of different youth organizations. As a classically trained pianist, Z also has an artistic streak, and dons the cap of a music producer when she is not creating magic on the greens. Her fashion sense and effortless style have won her many fans, and made her one of the most talked-about contestants on ‘Big Break’.

For More Information: http://www.zakiyarandall.com

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About Style by June (from VH1.com)

When you think of the fashion world, you think photo spreads, models, runways, and amazing opulent outfits. But fashion is more than what you’re wearing. It’s about your attitude. It’s about branding. And, more important, it’s about staying relevant in the public eye.

VH1 goes inside the world of fashion in a unique docu-soap series with the ultimate “Curator of Style”–June Ambrose. She is THE celebrity stylist. From Puffy to Jay-Z, she rebranded hip-hop as upscale in the 1990s. And in the 21st century, she has reshaped and re-launched the careers of hundreds of celebs, including Mariah Carey, Mary J Blige, and Will Smith. June pushes the envelope and specializes in the unexpected, making us all stand up and take notice.

June is a triple threat. She is a design guru and styling expert, a rebranding genius, and a rock mom to boot (to two kids Chance, 10, and Summer, 7). In this series, June forges forward revamping her clients with her group of trusty assistants. There’s Eli, the neurotic but loveable style maverick–otherwise known as her second husband. There’s Tukie, her market editor. If you want to get to June, you have to go through Tukie first. And there’s Rachel, her newbie assistant. She’s a socialite/actress who’s trying to make it in the fashion world but sometimes gets too caught up in the chaos and fun of it all.

Together the team takes celebrities and reimagines their look and brand for 2012 and beyond. Each episode will follow a celebrity’s EMANCIPATION (a June-ism), culminating in a re-launch that coincides with a high profile event: new album, new tour, new music video, etc.

This isn’t just a show about style, it’s a show about business: Look and attitude are the keys to success. June is one of very few people–some would say the only person–who understand how to use the look to drive the culture, and then to drive the dollars.

While we follow this season-long arc, we will show June juggling her clients and her personal life. She’s all left-brain. Her assistants can hardly keep up with her energy and vigor as she manages a burgeoning empire that now includes a new eyewear line for Selima Optique. Eli, Tukie and Rachel struggle to meet June’s snowballing demands as they learn how to live in her “June-iverse.”

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Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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CONTACT: JUNG BALDWIN ENTERTAINMENT, LLC

OFFICE: 347-504-0419

AISHA KAREFA-SMART EXPLORES THE WORLD OF MODERN AND MUTI-CULTURAL DINING FROM AN AFRICAN AMERICAN PERSPECTIVE.

DINING WHILE BLACK: A GUIDE TO THE ART OF MODERN DINING IS A CONTEMPORARY GUIDE TO RESTAURANT SELECTION; RESERVATIONS; FINE DINING VS CASUAL DINING; MODERN RULES OF ETIQUETTE; WINE SELECTION; WINE AND FOOD PAIRING; TIPPING AND INTERNATIONAL DINING, FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS.

AISHA DREW FROM HER EXPERIENCES IN THE WORLD OF COPORATE TRAVEL AND EVENT PLANNING, AS WELL AS HER UPBRINING IN THE WELL KNOWN, BUSTLING NEIGHBORHOOD ON NEW YORK’S UPPER WEST SIDE, TO WRITE WHAT SHE TERMS “THE FIRST DINING GUIDE FOR THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN DINING AND FOOD ENTHUSIAST.”

THE NEICE OF THE LATE GREAT AUTHOR, JAMES BALDWIN, AISHA GREW UP IN A FAMILY OF FABULOUS COOKS, WHO OFTEN PREPARED FOOD FOR AND DINED WITH MEMBERS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN LITERARY ROYALTY.  AS A YOUNG GIRL, AISHA WAS EXPOSED TO CUISINES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD, OFTEN DINING WITH HER FAMILY INTERNATIONALLY.  LATER ON, AS A TRAVEL AND EVENT PROFESSIONAL, SHE FINE TUNED HER LOVE OF GREAT FOOD BY DESIGNING AND PLANNING EVENTS THAT FEATURED DELICIOUSLY PREPARED DISHES, CREATED BY SOME OF NEW YORK’S TOP CATERERS.

IN 2005 AISHA RELOCATED TO WASHINGTON DC.  IT WAS HER YEAR LONG STINT AT A BISTRO NEAR U STREET,  NAMED FOR ANOTHER FAMED AFRICAN AMERICAN  ARTIST-MARVIN GAYE; THAT TAUGHT HER THE INSIDE KNOWLEDE AND SECRETS OF THE RESTAURANT WORLD THAT SHE SHARES IN DINING WHILE BLACK.

AISHA: “IF ONE TRULY SEEKS TO BECOME A SAVY DINER AND TO GAIN AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE HIDDEN LANGUAGE AND CUES THAT EXIST IN THE RESTAURANT WORLD, THE BEST WEAPON TO HAVE AT YOUR DISPOSAL IS KNOWLEDGE.”

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KONY 2012 is a film and campaign by Invisible Children that aims to make Joseph Kony famous, not to celebrate him, but to raise support for his arrest and set a precedent for international justice.

Supporter of Invisible Children 

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Maxwell Hall, Senior Media Manager, Tel.: +41 (0)79 329 3500 maxwell.hall@weforum.org

Deutsch Español Français

World Economic Forum Announces Young Global Leaders for 2012

*The Forum has honoured 192 young leaders from 59 countries for their
outstanding leadership, professional accomplishments and commitment to society

*Of the selected young leaders, 46 are from Europe
Young Global Leaders are selected from a variety of sectors such as business, government, academia, media, non-profit organizations and arts and culture, and from all regions of the world

*Young Global Leaders engage in initiatives that address specific challenges of public interest with the objective of shaping a better future

Geneva, Switzerland, 6 March 2012 – The World Economic Forum has announced its Young Global Leaders (YGLs) for 2012.

The honour, bestowed each year by the Forum, recognizes up to 200 outstanding young leaders from around the world for their professional accomplishments, commitment to society and potential to contribute to shaping the future of the world. Past YGLs include Maria Bartiromo, Anchor, Closing Bell, and Anchor and Managing Editor, Wall Street Journal Report, CNBC, USA; David Cameron, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; Esther Duflo, Professor of Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA; Larry Page, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Google, USA; Zhang Xin, Chief Executive Officer, SOHO China, People’s Republic of China.

For 2012, the Forum has selected 192 YGLs from 59 countries and all sectors of society (including business, civil society, social entrepreneurs, politics and government, arts and culture, and opinion and media). The new class originates from East Asia (38), South Asia (19), Europe (46), Middle East and North Africa (15), sub-Saharan Africa (18), North America (37) and Latin America (19)
.
For the full release and supporting information, please visit:
http://www.weforum.org/NR_YGL2012_Europe

—————————————————————————-
World Economic Forum, 91-93 route de la Capite,
1223 Cologny/Geneva, Switzerland
Tel.: +41 (0)22 869 1212 – Fax: +41 (0)22 786 2744
www.weforum.org

If you do not want to receive further News Releases from the World Economic Forum, let us know.

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Read Octavia Spencer’s nomination application.

Acceptance speech:

Thank you Academy for putting me with the hottest guy in the room. I have to thank my families. My family in Alabama, the state of Alabama, my L.A. family watching at Steven’s Arigato, my “Help” family, Tate…Tate, Brunson, Kathryn, Allison Janney, thank you for being in my life. I share this with everybody. Thank you Steven Spielberg for changing my life. Thank you Stacey Snider for changing my life. Please wrap up….I’m wrapping up. I’m sorry, I’m freaking out. Thank you world. Oh God, and thank you to WME and Viewpoint L.A. I’m sorry guys, I love you. Thank you. I’m sorry.

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We are BME Concern

Our vision:

A world where there’s no hunger, where an African woman can feed her family and an African child can survive and develop to his full potential.

Our mission:

To inspire support for the empowerment of minority women (in the UK), inspire support for the African village woman and achieve sustainable and lasting change in reduction of poverty for the African village woman.

What we do:

In Africa we work in African villages to set up Village Enterprises for women, small businesses to generate income to feed children and sustain a family; we run medical surgeries and AIDs awareness campaigns.

In the UK, we support women in distress, help women back to work and run Youth projects that educate the youth about African culture and Norms.

What you can do:

Support our Village Enterprise Appeal, investment in the African village woman, and save a generation of children from a life of hunger and poverty:
http://www.bmeconcern.com/page/what_we_do/section/village

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Dimona, Israel, Northeastern Africa

March 1-5, 2012

The Ascension of Pan-Africanism 

HIGHLIGHT EVENTS

PADU WORKING SESSIONS:

FACILITATING THE MIDDLE EAST THEATER FOR THE AFRICAN UNION’S 6TH REGION POLICY UPDATES, REPORTS, THINK TANKS & DISCUSSIONS

JERICO SUMMIT: TOWN-HALL MEETING WITH THE    

AFRO-PALESTINIAN COMMUNITY

AFRO-JORDANIAN COMMUNITY

AFRO-BEDOUIN COMMUNITY

ETHIOPIAN COMMUNITY

SACRED VISITATION TO JERUSALEM, VISITING THE

AFRO-PALESTINIAN COMMUNITY, ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH AND other sites of historical significance to Africans IN THE MOST IMPORTANT GEO-POLITICAL/GEO-RELIGIOUS CITY ON EARTH

Join the Pan African Diaspora Union as we expand the African Union Sixth Region Policy and the African Diaspora into the Middle East.

INTERESTED IN ATTENDING?

PLEASE SEND MAIL TO THE PLANNING & ORGANISING COMMITTEE TO THE ATTENTION OF CROWNED DR. KHAZRIEL BEN YEHUDA; E: DRKBYEHUDA@YAHOO.COM; T: +972-549274587

CC TO: PADU SECRETARIAT: PADUORGANIZING@GMAIL.COM AND MEMBER OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE SISTER DEBORAH WRIGHT SASSYEARS@GMAIL.COM

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Latest statistics show that over 60‘000 Africans and people of African orgine live or work in Switzerland. This huge population is scattered all over the 26 cantons of the Swiss Confederation, mostly in major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, Basel, Berne, Biel etc.

The African population of Switzerland is composed mostly of legal residents who ply their busi-nesses in various fields of the Swiss economy. We have legal practitioners, professional fellows in Swiss Univerties, Financial institutions, Medical and pharmaceutical institutions, informatic and communication firms, sports, science and technological institutions and factories and of course many in diplomatic circles and international organisations mostly in Geneva area and in Berne. There are also African refugees and Asylum seekers.

The African community has been organized largely on regional basis. Some associations that are active on the national level only regroup nationals of particular African nations. Others regroup members of the community with similar interests. Today, the African diaspora of Switzerland has the historic opportunity to establish a national platform that unites all interests with the possibil-ity to speak with one voice on the national swiss scene. The Swiss federal office of migrations has shown sincere interest to address the impediments of integration of Africans in Switzerland. It therefore calls for an African national platform as serious partner in the process. This is why the African Diaspora Council Switzerland (ADCS) is founded in November 6, 2010 after extensive contacts, consultations, exchanges and deliberations since at least June 2010.

The ADCS proposes to be a Federation of the African Diaspora in Switzerland. ADCS is a member of Forum for the integration of migrants, FIMM Suisse. Our mission then is to create a na-tional platform for all Africans living in Switzerland irrespective of our diversity in order to have a strong voice in the Swiss national events and politics. We believe in unity in diversity. We intend to showcase the real face of Africans in Switzerland with their immense contributions to the Swiss real sectors. In order to guarantee efficiency and active participation of our members, we are organized in commissions and our members must be a member of at least one commission which include: Law & Politics, Information & Communication, Education & Health, Empowerment & Capacity building, Mediation & Conflict Resolution, Culture & Sport, and Finance & Fund rais-ing. Our aims are thus:

• Creation of network of Africans, African associations, African business outlets, churches and mosques, African embassies as well as other migrant and Swiss associations pursuing Afri-can interests.
• Creation of network for the distribution of information in the African community of Switzer-land and promotion of integration of Africans in Switzerland.
• Creation of a political Lobbying Front for the African Diaspora in Switzerland.
• Initiation of public campaigns for the promotion of the image of Black people in Switzer-land.
• Capacity building for Africans in Switzerland.
• Guarantee a steady media presence for the African community of Switzerland.
• Conflict resolution among Africans in Switzerland as well as between Africans and Swiss authorities and other offices.

Join the movement today! Register Now online! - http://africancouncil.ch/index.php/en/registration
To contribute financially, please use our postal account: CP 60-683608-0

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Building on the success of the inaugural 2011 conference, the second annual convention of the Black German Cultural Society of New Jersey (BGCSNJ) will be held at Barnard College in New York City on August 10-11, 2012. This year’s convention will focus on the theme of “What Is the Black German Experience?” The conference will feature a keynote address by Yara Colette Lemke Muniz de Faria, screenings of the films “Hope in My Heart: The May Ayim Story” and “Audre Lorde – The Berlin Years 1984-1992,” and readings by Afrogerman poet-performers Olumide Popoola and Philipp Kabo Köpsell.

The BGCSNJ Review Committee invites proposals for papers that engage the multiplicity and diversity of the experiences of Blacks of German heritage and on Blackness in Germany. We welcome submissions for twenty-minute presentations on three academic panels and two sessions devoted to life writing, oral history and memoir. To participate please send a one-page abstract and a CV or short biographical statement to: bgcsinc@gmail.com .

Deadline for proposals: March 15, 2012

Visit Blackgermans

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Rosalind Brewer, 49, was the former president of the retailer’s U.S. East business unit. She also held a number of executive positions at Kimberly-Clark Corp. She begins her position on Feb. 1.

Rosalind Brewer photo by USA Today

Wal-Mart’s Sam’s Club warehouse business accounts for 12 percent of Wal-Mart’s annual sales. Revenue rose 5.7 percent at the store in the third quarter of 2011.

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=====================================================

Join Us in Washington D.C area for Our
2012 International Women’s Day Conference !

=====================================================

CONFERENCE ON WOMEN AND BUSINESS

Crystal Gateway Marriott

1700 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202

 =====================================================

We invite you to participate in The International women’s Day celebration on Women and Business.

The upcoming meeting builds on initial activities held by women in Americas and in Africa in 2011. Our goal is to build the leadership and representative capacity of women in innovation skills, primary industries and sustainable development in Africa.

At this conference, we will discuss strategies for American women who want to develop Business in Morocco during the forthcoming 5^th International congress of African women scheduled in morocco in November 2012.

Also, we want to capitalize on the Morocco-US Free Trade Agreement which is a Road Map for Success. The United States-Morocco Free Trade Agreement is a comprehensive agreement that’s provides market opportunities for U.S. exports to Morocco by reducing and eliminating trade barriers.

Please join us for a fruitful brainstorming Panel that will help women to take better advantage of cooperation agreements with America and Africa.

Join us March 8-9, 2012

This is the perfect conference to network, to learn about the latest opportunities in Businesses for the community and hear excellent speakers, enjoy an exhibit hall and so much more. Women and men interested in developing their Business in Africa are expected to attend.

General informations:  congres.international@gmail.com

Visit our blog at: http://patricia-faraut.blog4ever.com/blog/index-232302.html

Website: www.femmesperformantes.com

Conference Team:

Annie Landu, Executive Secretary:  annie@femmesperformantes.com

Executive administratior: Christophe Edou christophe@femmesperformantes.com 

Patricia Secke congres.international@gmail.com

Tel: +1240 701 3972 / Tel: + 1 571 606 5215 /Fax: +1301 434 2728 www.femmesperformantes.com

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Source: Accredited online colleges

What makes literature such a beautiful and compelling field of study is its fruitful bounty of diversity. Unfortunately, however, syllabi across the United States still tend towards books by dead white men, with everyone else competing for what few available slots remain. Progress has been made, of course, and dead white men still have plenty to say and offer. But the canon could easily do much, much better for itself. Whether historical, romantic, fantastic, mysterious or some combination thereof (or something else entirely), the following reads represent some of the best voices representing African-American women of today and generations past. By no means neither definitive nor emblematic of all experiences and perspectives, it still provides a great sample of some amazing books deserving of more consideration. Or, in some cases, fully deserving of the hefty recognition they already earned.

1. 
   Alice Walker’s Pulitzer-winning classic gives an empowering voice to women marginalized along racial, sexual and economic lines, setting her story during the Great Depression. Protagonist Celie ultimately finds empowerment despite such severe social, political, filial and financial hardships thanks to the loving sexual guidance of her bombastic friend and lover Shug Avery.
2. 
   Another sterling Pulitzer winner and rightfully lauded mainstay in the literary canon, Beloved compares and contrasts the times before, during and after the American Civil War. Haunting and intense, it features some horrifying depictions of slavery’s reality and what lengths some might have gone to in order to escape it, including murdering loved ones.


Featuring one of the strongest female leads in all of literature, Zora Neale Hurston’s undeniable magnum opus follows a Florida woman through many different loves. Some horrid, some amazing, and all of them eventually shaping her into the self-assured, somewhat traumatized and frequently gossiped-about individual she eventually becomes.

3. 
   This fiercely feminist slave narrative comes so laden with autobiography it may as well be shelved as a memoir. Harriet Jacobs, here cast as Linda, recounts how masters tortured their female slaves more egregiously than their male counterparts, not infrequently involving sexual assault and rape. While graphic and heartwrenching, the novel does carry historical significance making it an essential read.
4. 
   Four middle-aged women show each other love and support through times of triumph and times of tragedy both inter- and intrapersonal. Although their individual stories do base a lot of characterization off their masculine relationships, it still turns a realistic eye towards dating and marriage problems.
5. 
   Set at the turn of the 20th century, The Serpent’s Gift chronicles a tale of two families whose lives begin overlapping in some interesting – some good, some bad – ways as time marches onward. For almost 100 years, they love, share and suffer through their middle-class Midwestern existence, impacted by some of America’s most influential historical moments.
6. 
   Short vignettes bound together by common themes and characters greatly humanize the female inhabitants of a decaying urban neighborhood. They cycle through victories and tragedies, their emotions running the gamut from joy to despair to homicidal rage.
7. 
   Science fiction and fantasy author Octavia E. Butler tackles time travel in her narrative of a young woman flung to a pre-Civil War plantation. There, she must serve as a slave in order to protect her identity – and ensure she even exists in the future.
8. 
   Published in 1946, The Street takes a long look at the experiences of a young, single mother in Harlem harboring a love of books and Ben Franklin. The latter serves as her inspiration to keep pressing forward, working hard and ensuring the safest possible life for her beloved son.
9. 
   The eponymous protagonist comes of age as the daughter of a doctor during school desegregation, witnessing firsthand the beginnings of the Civil Rights movement. Ntozake Shange juxtaposes Betsey’s experiences with those of her parents Jane and Greer to showcase the different attitudes the generations held about social change.
10. 
    Though illiterate, impoverished, twice-pregnant because of her father’s repeated rapes and suffering under an abusive mother, the 16-year-old girl around which Push rotates pines for a healthier, happier life. Sapphire leaves her ending ambiguous, but by the end an alternative school has already bolstered her reading skills.
11. 
    Bildungsroman buffs might want to pick up this novel about a young woman crippled beneath poverty and racism in Chicago’s South Side during the 1960s. Appropriate for teens and adults, it offers up some sobering lessons about some universal and historical themes alike.
12. 
    An Atlanta-based hairdresser relocates to her Michigan origins following a devastating and unexpected HIV diagnosis. She reunites with her sister, adopts a baby, rediscovers love and finds excitement in the city she once deemed unworthy.
13. 
    Iola Leroy stands as one of the first novels ever published by an African-American woman and concerns itself with the mixed-race daughter of a former slave owner and the wife he once owned. But once the planter dies, she winds up thrust into servitude of her own before being freed and piecing together the broken fragments of her family.
14. 
    Barbara Neely’s debut novel introduced mystery aficionados to cook and housekeeper Blanche White, who eventually winds up playing detective while running from fraud charges. Her position as a majorly marginalized individual (along both class and race lines) allows her to go about her investigations smoother – handy, considering her first case involves a murdered gardener.
15. 
    Speculation about The Bondwoman’s Narrative abounds, with many scholars believing it might be the very first novel ever written by an African-American woman; it wasn’t published until 2002, however. This slave story makes for another first-person example about the horrors faced by people dehumanized by others who wrongfully forced them into bondage.
16. 
    Odessa Rose’s sensuous story twists and turns throughout an attraction triangle shared by a popular sculptress, a man she loves and the woman she ends up loving even more. It’s a joyous journey through eroticism and art alike, and many readers consider it a major triumph of African-American lesbian literature.
17. 
    Even skeptics towards the romance genre can still appreciate The Color of Love for its frank, grounded depiction of the unique challenges interracial couples frequently face. Few authors ever put forth the effort to explore the realities behind such relationships, and fewer still with as much gravitas and intelligent commentary as Sandra Kitt.
18. 
    At age 64, protagonist Avey Johnson heads out on a cruise to Carraiacou to find herself and better connect with her heritage after widowhood. Interspersed throughout her experiences on the Carribbean island are scenes taken from her childhood, marriage and motherhood to help her come to terms with where she’s been and where she may very well go.
19. 
    Through the powerful voice of haunted blues chanteuse Ursa Corregidora, her brutal family history of slavery collides with the realities and experiences of African-Americans in the 1930s. Her newly-acquired inability to bear children challenges her to think of the bitter past that scarred her mother and grandmother.

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The Women of Color Arts & Film (WOCAF) is gearing up for its 7th annual festival holding in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. The four-day festival is scheduled for March 15 –18, 2012 at the Auburn Avenue Research Library, 101 Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, GA. The only one of its kind in the Southeast, Women of Color Arts and Film Festival (WOCAF) is a multi-discipline event that includes film screenings, a visual art exhibition and a music showcase – all celebrating women of color artists and media makers. “The immense growth of the festival confirms a need for a platform that celebrates women of color and their creativity. We are growing every year and are continuously impressed by the array of independent films out there that have a woman of color in a key creative position whether it is behind, or in front of the camera”” states Festival Director Mojisola Sonoiki of Iyalode Productions.

The WOCAF 2012 festival is now open for press features and media listings. The festival director, Ms. Mojisola Sonoiki is also available for interviews.

CALL FOR FILM FESTIVAL SUBMISSIONS

Our call for submissions for the film festival segment is now open. The theme for the 2012 edition is “Celebrating the African Woman”. Eligible works must have been completed after January 1, 2009 and films should have an African woman in a key creative position in the production either in front or behind the camera. WOCAF will accept original, creative, outstanding, thought provoking work.

Entry guidelines are on our website at http://www.wocaf.org/wocaf-2012/film-submissions.

Submissions will be accepted beginning November 1, 2011 through December 23, 2011. This year’s festival promises to be just as exciting as the previous WOCAF festivals and is a ‘must attend’. Save the date and stay tuned for the schedule of events for WOCAF 2012.

ABOUT WOCAF:

Now in its seventh year, The WOCAF’s schedule of films and artistic event attracts a diverse audience of women and men. The film festival is produced annually by WOCAF International, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit Media Arts organization. Each year, films from Africa, America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia and Europe are showcased. The Women of Color Arts & Film Festival is the only festival of its kind in the Southeast that focus on achievements of Women of Color filmmakers and artists. Founded in 2005, WOCAF is dedicated to promoting cultural, political and social issues about and/or related to women of color. WOCAF provides a platform for women of color who do not normally have a platform to exhibit their work. By showing a broad spectrum of films and artistic events. WOCAF’s goal is to utilize the arts as a powerful vehicle to inform, enrich and entertain.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
ADMIN/PRESS CONTACT
Tosin Taiwo
Phone: 347 69-WOCAF (347 699 6223)
Fax: 347-493 3598
E-Mail: tosin@wocaf.org
WWW.WOCAF.ORG

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The international design competition will be conducted in two (2) phases. Phase I will be undertaken by UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France. Following a global launch of the competition, design applications will be collected by UNESCO and a shortlist of 16 designs will go forward to the next phase. All initial expressions of interest will be reviewed by an appropriate mechanism established by UNESCO in collaboration with the Permanent Memorial Committee; and a short list of 16 entries will be forwarded to the Committee in New York to be assessed by an independent international panel of judges.

Phase II will be devoted to a further shortlist by the panel of Judges and the selection of a winner of the competition. The Judges will review the 16 applications received from UNESCO and make a further shortlist of seven (7) finalists to be subject to an interview process. The interview process will will serve to provide the Judges with an insight into the artist’s vision and interpretation of the design, and a final selection will be made by a simple majority vote by members of the panel of Judges. This will take place at United Nations Headquarters in New York.

It is particularly important that the selection of artists be a transparent and politically impartial process, that is also geographically, historically, artistically, and professionally sound.

For more information on the criteria for artists and the independent international jury click here.

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INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF BLACK WOMEN

Subject: Toronto Congress reminder October 28/29, 2011 Courtyard Marriott Downtown Toronto Canada

Dear participants, members and partners,

Welcome to the International Congress of Black women for 2011. During two days, 28^th- 29^th October 2011, we are bringing together visionaries for change, Creativity and Entrepreneurship from across the world toGreater Toronto Area in Canada.

Toronto city Hall

Congress President Mrs. Patricia Secke will speak about the vision: African Women on the continent and in Diaspora connected, committed and coordinated in building, fortifying and elevating leaders, organizations, governments and corporation that equip women entrepreneurs, elected officials, employers and employees to maximize their capacity and ability.

In addition to the various workshops, we have secured Mrs. Parker Mabry, President and Founder of The Anderson Advantage Group in the United States of America, as our Mistress of ceremony and conference speaker. As Congress partner, she will bring a unique combination to your stage, ensuring your congress is valuable. Parker offers either a Brain storming Board session or breakout session. Get the most and very best from her.

 ”We are African women from the same ancestors yet different homelands. Our faces, bodies and voices are so beautifully similar. During the 2011 International Congress of Black Women our ancestors will rejoice as we raise our collective voice and choice to create a healthier, wealthier life for ourselves, our families, our countries and the world,” proclaims Keynote Speaker, Attorney Alison Velez Lane who is the Chief Executive Officer of Campaign Train Group. Campaign Train Group offers training seminars, reference materials and individual coaching for business owners, elected officers, group leaders and political candidates.watch a portion of speech of Alison Velez Lane, esq. Out of Time: Endless Possibilties:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd28PSj7DIM

Our Canadian partners:  Yvonne Kabeya (Executive Director of Le Regroupement des Femmes Immigrantes Francophones Toronto) and Karine Morin(Senior Manager RDEE-Ontario / La bonne affaire – Opportunities for All)

                               Yvonne Kabeya             Karine Morin

and many dignitaries will welcome the Participants. The sessions feature Aboriginal, business, and government leaders presenting their perspectives on international cooperation challenges. Panelists and participants will assess the effectiveness of current efforts to address these challenges, the barriers to progress, and how best to move forward.

We will also have local Medias and Paris television Reporter Bruno Leuta from “L’Image de La Communication”. Mosaique Afro france.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to attend this year’s exciting congress. You can register over the websitewww.femmesperformantes.com , using your credit card.

email us at: Congres.international@gmail.com

Or Contact Christophe at Christophe@femmesperformantes.com

Tel: +1240 701 3972 // +1-(202)-862-1168 no later than Tuesday October 26th, to RSVP.

Contact AFP Toronto: Yvonne Kabeya: Tel: +1 (416)345-8449 Ext 102 – Cell : +1 (647) 784-3302 email:Yvonne@femmesperformantes.com

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Excerpt from study abstract

Research on the evolution of signaling has shown that animals frequently alter visual features, including color cues, to attract, intimidate or protect themselves from conspecifics. Humans engage in conscious manipulation of visual signals using cultural tools in real time rather than genetic changes over evolutionary time. Here, we investigate one tool, the use of color cosmetics. In two studies, we asked viewers to rate the same female faces with or without color cosmetics, and we varied the style of makeup from minimal (natural), to moderate (professional), to dramatic (glamorous).

Models without makeup and with natural, professional and glamorous makeup.

The results suggest that cosmetics can create supernormal facial stimuli, and that one way they may do so is by exaggerating cues to sexual dimorphism. Our results provide evidence that judgments of facial trustworthiness and attractiveness are at least partially separable, that beauty has a significant positive effect on judgment of competence, a universal dimension of social cognition, but has a more nuanced effect on the other universal dimension of social warmth, and that the extended phenotype significantly influences perception of biologically important signals at first glance and at longer inspection.

Discussion

Our results have a number of implications. As predicted, makeup had significant positive effects on ratings of female facial attractiveness at brief and longer inspection times. Ratings of competence increased significantly with makeup look tested on first glance and longer inspection. Effects were weaker and more variable for ratings of likability and trustworthiness, although generally positive.

Social psychologists have suggested that social warmth and social competence represent two universal dimensions of social perception by which we evaluate individuals and groups, with warmth capturing traits related to social cooperation, and power/competence capturing cues relevant to advantage in social competition, such as status and dominance. Here we show a robust and positive effect of increased beauty on social power/competence and a generally positive but more nuanced and variable effect on social warmth.

Past studies have shown that attractive people are expected to do better on the job, in school, and in life – and are treated that way – by being agreed with, deferred to, helped, and granted larger personal space. In a recent experimental study using a task for which physical attractiveness did not improve productivity, researchers demonstrated conclusively that employers expect physically attractive workers to perform better at their jobs and be more competent.

But, as sociologists Webster and Driskell noted when first proposing the idea of beauty as status, there are important differences between attractiveness and other status characteristics such as race or sex: beauty is a malleable characteristic. They predicted that, given the powerful effect of status, “attractiveness will assume increasing significance as other characteristics such as race and sex fall into disuse.” We suggest that attractiveness has assumed increasing significance, and will continue to do so as long as beauty remains an often unconscious proxy for status and ability.

The beauty halo effect has been called the “what is beautiful is good” effect. In our study, makeup increased inferences of warmth and cooperation (likability and trustworthiness) when faces were presented very briefly, but did not always do so on longer inspection. In general, there is less agreement about whether beauty invariably signals social cooperation, with some studies suggesting that there is a ”dark side” to beauty characterized by vanity, immodesty, or greater likelihood to cheat on a partner. Our findings suggest that it may be fruitful to disentangle the effects of beauty from beauty enhancement, or phenotype from extended phenotype here. It may be that natural beauty or natural appearing beauty leads to positive inferences of social cooperation, where more obvious beauty enhancement may lead to neutral or even negative inferences. Finally, our results provide additional evidence that judgments of facial trustworthiness and facial attractiveness are at least partially separable; the highest contrast makeup (glamorous) increased attractiveness significantly while at the same time decreasing judgments of trustworthiness.

Our study looked at one potential source of the cosmetics effect on face perception, increasing luminance contrast between the features (eyes and lips) and the surrounding skin, and looked for the first time at luminance contrast in African American and Hispanic faces. We found that cosmetics increased luminance contrast by significantly darkening the eyes and lips. Skin was neither significantly lightened nor darkened. However, luminance contrast effects for our natural look compared to a face without makeup was only marginally significant. It is likely that cosmetics induced image changes other than changes in luminance contrast contributed to our effects. These include possible changes in the smoothness of skin tone, in the redness of skin color or lip color, and in shading that accentuates the cheekbones. Previous research has shown that makeup can improve skin appearance, evenness, and texture to appear healthier, fertile, and youthful and that skin and lip color can contribute significantly to perception of sex typicality and attractiveness, with lip redness enhancing femininity and attractiveness of female Caucasian faces.

Finally, our study included only North American subjects; we do not know if such effects will be found in subjects from other cultures*.

In sum, we show that faces with cosmetics engage both fast, reflexive processes, and more deliberative conscious processes. The fast, automatic effects are uniformly strong and positive for all outcomes. In situations where a perceiver is under a high cognitive load or under time pressure, he or she is more likely to rely on such automatic judgments for decision-making. Facial images appear on ballots, job applications, websites and dating sites. Our results underscore the malleability of judgments derived from facial images of a single individual at zero acquaintance, judgments that can be highly consequential. When inferring trustworthiness, likeability, or competence from an image, we are influenced significantly not only by the attractiveness of the inherited phenotype but by the effects of the “extended phenotype,” in this case, makeup.

*Do you think these findings would hold up across the African Diaspora?

Read the full Cosmetics as a Feature of the Extended Human Phenotype: Modulation of the Perception of Biologically Important Facial Signals report.

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Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and

(Photo by Reuters)

Liberian activist Leymah Gbowee are two of the three winners of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize.

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GLOBAL WOMAN SUMMIT October 8 – 11th 2011

An educational, three-day program of exciting events, uniting and honoring leading women from around the world, by highlighting common bonds and discussing the cultural differences that identify us.

The three-day Global Woman Summit will bring together nearly a thousand women of many nationalities, religions, race and age, and will conclude with an Awards Ceremony, where nominated Delegates will be honored for their work in their respective fields and communities.

Meet and listen to world leaders, diplomats and experts plus your opportunity to network with eminent women from diverse occupations. Leave having gained greater insight and increased knowledge of women who regularly break the glass ceiling.

View the program, speakers, and registration information.

US First Lady, Michelle Obama

First Lady Michelle Obama slated to appear during Award Ceremony on Tuesday, October 11.

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Historical Fiction – Event
Look Long Into the Abyss by A.R. Homer – 2nd Runner Up
The Corydon Snow by Richard Whitten Barnes – 1st Runner UP
Beyond Those Hills: An Officer and a Lady – Private Battles of a Female Warrior
by M.H.A. Menondji – Honorable Mention
Once a Knight By Walt Shiel-Bronze
David & the Mighty Eight by Marjorie Hodgson Parker-Silver
Victory Road by Mark Bowlin – Gold

See the full list of winners.

About M.H.A. Menondji

African-born and Award-winning author M.H.A. Menondji migrated to the United States a decade ago from France. A graduate from the French Universities of Orleans and La Sorbonne (International Law), she also holds a B.A. in Political Science from Whittier College, CA. Published a year before she joined the US Navy, “Beyond Those Hills: an Officer and a Lady” was her first full-length novel. Read more about the author on her website.

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In August, President Barack Obama tapped Reed for the ambassadorship. In the post, Reed will be in charge of diplomatic relations for the islands. In addition, Reed was recently elevated to the Minister-Counselor within the Senior Foreign Service, a high-level diplomatic rank.

“I am honored with my appointment as U.S. Ambassador to the Republics of Fiji, Nauru, Kiribati, the Kingdom of Tonga and Tuvalu,” Reed said. “The road to becoming an ambassador is very different for each individual. However, none of us accomplishes this alone.”

Reed credited the leadership principles she learned from journalism professors during her student days in the School of Communications. She also said her tenure as editor-in-chief of The Hilltop gave her the management background and public diplomacy skills that are important to running an embassy.

Reed earned a bachelor’s in journalism from Howard in 1975. She went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Prior to joining the Foreign Service in 1983, she was a Peace Corps volunteer and a journalist.

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There’s a new person in charge at the president’s pad — Angella Reid, just named the next chief usher of the White House.

Currently general manager of the Ritz-Carlton at Pentagon City, Reid will run the household staff and grounds at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. — a job that has inspired some long tenures: Born in Jamaica, Reid will be only the ninth usher since 1885, and the first woman. The last usher, Stephen W. Rochon, left this year to join the Department of Homeland Security, the White House said.

Reid was not made available for interviews, but we happen to know that she loves U2 — and knows that the secret to success is “genuinely caring for people.” So she says in a video on the Ritz-Carlton’s corporate Web site. (She’s also a fan of the Pet Shop Boys, Tina Turner and Chris Botti.)

How is she to work with? “Very personable, very patient, very knowledgeable about her business,” said Marty Covert, a meeting planner who has done business with Reid at the Ritz. “She’s a class act.”

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Kenyan environmentalist and human rights activist, Wangari Maathai has died at the age of 71

U.S. President Obama says

“her legacy will stand” on environmental and other issues”.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon describes her as a

“pioneer”

Nairobi, Kenya (CNN) — Kenyan Wangari Maathai, the first woman from Africa to win the Nobel Peace Prize, died Monday after a battle with cancer. She was 71.

Maathai, an environmentalist, had long campaigned for human rights and the empowerment of Africa’s most impoverished people.

More than 30 years ago she founded the Green Belt Movement, a tree-planting campaign to simultaneously mitigate deforestation and to give locals, especially women and girls, access to resources like firewood for cooking and clean water. They have since planted more than 40 million trees.

“Professor Maathai’s departure is untimely and a very great loss to all who knew her — as a mother, relative, co-worker, colleague, role model and heroine — or who admired her determination to make the world a more peaceful, healthier and better place,”

her organization said.

World mourns passing of ‘true African heroine’

In 2004, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote sustainable development, democracy and peace.

“Her departure is untimely and a very great loss to all of us who knew her—as a mother, relative, co-worker, colleague, role model, and heroine—or those who admired her determination to make the world a peaceful, healthy, and better place for all of us,”

said Karanja Njoroge, executive director of the Green Belt Movement.

Born in Nyeri, Kenya, on April 1, 1940, Maathai blazed many trails in her life.

She was the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate degree. In December 2002, she was elected to Kenya’s parliament with an overwhelming 98% of the vote.

She was honored by Time magazine in 2005 as one of 100 most influential people in the world. And Forbes listed her as one of 100 most powerful women in the world.

In April 2006, France bestowed its highest honor on her: the Legion d’Honneur.

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki called Maathai a

“global icon who has left an indelible mark in the world of environmental conservation.”

Her passing elicited tributes from all around the world, like one from U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in which he described her as

“a pioneer in articulating the links between human rights, poverty, environmental protection and security.”

He noted that she’d been active in his organization, including as a U.N. Messenger of Peace and part of a group trying to formulate global millennium development goals.

Achmat Dangor, the executive director of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, recalled a 2005 speech that she made before his group in which she laid out specific steps that citizens, governments and businesses could take to protect the environment.

“We need people who love Africa so much that they want to protect her from destructive processes,”

Maathai said then.

“There are simple actions we can take.”

British Foreign Secretary William Hague called the passing of the

“charismatic figure … a great loss to the world,”

and fellow environmental activist and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore recalled her as a woman who

“worked tirelessly (to become) a true inspiration for us all.”

And U.S. President Barack Obama said that Maathai’s life-long fight continues, building off what she was able to accomplish and the minds and policies she was able to shape over her lifetime.

“As she told the world, ‘We must not tire, we must not give up, we must persist,”

Obama said in a statement.

“Her legacy will stand as an example to all of us to persist in our pursuit of progress.”

Maathai leaves behind three children and a granddaughter.

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Miss Universe Leila Lopes

Miss Universe 2011, the 60th anniversary of the Miss Universe pageant, was held at the Credicard Hall in São Paulo, Brazil on September 12, 2011. Ximena Navarrete of Mexico crowned her successor, Leila Luliana da Costa Vieira Lopes of Angola, at the end of this event. Angola (Leila Lopes) is the first winner of Miss Universe from Angola and became the fourth African woman to win the title, and the second black African woman to win following Mpule Kwelagobe, Miss Universe 1999 from Botswana. Lopes became the first woman from Angola to win a “Big four” beauty pageant.

Miss Angola and Miss Universe

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Hello Black Women In Europe,

My name is Ann- aka @afrolicious and @simplyann on twitter – and I would love to invite you and your readers to submit to Kindred: A Conversation Between Black Women.

The theme of our first issue is “Who Am I” and we’re looking for prose, poetry, illustrations, photography, collages, painting and anything that will add meaning to that theme for you. I personally will be submitting a short story about me, but I am most interested in hearing from Black women all over the world. Would you be able to spread the word to your readers? I’ve attached an image for your blogging needs.

Submissions close September 30, 2011, so there’s still time. You can visit http://www.kindredcollective.com to get more information. And send submissions into submissions AT kindredcollective DOT com.

You can find my personal thoughts on it here: http://simplyann.net/2011/09/why-black-women-why-a-conversation/ I hope that this something that your readers will find useful or even interesting.

Thank you for your time!

Ann Daramola
Publisher
Kindred Magazine

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http://francislholland.blogspot.com/2011/08/look-at-this-years-candidates-for-ms.html

Look at this year’s candidates for Ms. Brasil. Of approximately 27 from each state and the Federal District in the country, not a single one has brown skin, even though the population of Brazil includes 50% of Brazilians with brown or tan Afro-descendent skin (see statistics below).

Fonte: IBGE * 2005 , ** Censo 2010

Etnias (Ethnicities) no Brasil

Pardos: 42,6%  (means brown skin, like e.g. Francis L. Holland)
Brancos: 49,7%
Negros: 6,9%   (means brown or black skin)
Indígenas: 0,3%
Amarelos: 0,5%

The population of the state of Bahia, where I live, has a ratio of ten brown-skinned people for every three white-skinned people, and yet the state’s representative at the Miss Brazil contest will be white-skinned, whatever her heritage may be.  And for at least the last two years, Ms. Bahia has been white.

In all fairness and reality, if you carefully study the faces of each of the women in the above video, specialist in who has recent African ancestry may be able to identify three or four women whose noses and lips are of a shape often associated with brown skin, even though their skin is not brown.  And some of these women may proudly state that they are Black.  However, the skin color test is quite evident here, as it is in many other parts of Brazilian society.

Miss. Amapá, Miss Ceará, Miss Espiritu Santo, Miss Maranhão, Miss Mato Grosso, Miss Paraíba, Miss Paraná, Miss Sergipe and Miss Tocantins skin colors represent the outer limits of brownness for those seeking employment as dancers, guests and actors on many television soap operas and variety shows.  Any darker and they become invisible.

Just look at the all-white cast of a recent miniseries, called “Tí, Tí, Tí, to confirm that only three out of seventy-six characters have unambiguously brown skin, and one of the two Black women plays a maid.  In a country that is half brown, a television series has whites out-numbering Blacks by a ratio of 25 to 1.  Color-determined roles are worse on Brazilian television than politics South Africa’s historical apartheid regimes.

The Ms. Brazil website foresees the controversy over an all-white competition and so it points out, in a special section entitled “Black Beauty,” that one of the candidates for Ms. Brasil in 2010, Ms. Ceará, had copper-toned skin.  So, if you wait until next year, you may discover that a 50% brown and black-skinned country has at least one brown or black skinned contestant for Miss Brazil.  This year, the contest might as well be for Miss Switzerland.

I do not refer to “race” above, because it is entirely possible in Brazil that one or more of the women in the video has a brown-skinned parent or grandparent. So, it would be arbitrary and speculative to say that all of these women with white skin are from the “white race.”

Instead, it is entirely possible that one or more of the women shown here considers herself to be Black. But NONE of them, out of approximately 27, has brown skin.  (There are 26 states and the Federal District in Brazil, each with a contestant for Miss Brazil.)

I would mention something like this to my beige-skin step-daughters, but they wouldn’t understand how it was relevant that they had virtually zero percent chance of becoming Ms. Brazil, simply because their skin is too dark.

My obsession with realities such as these is one of the reasons I could not get along with my wife’s daughters (e.g. I felt disgusted at the smell and the reality of their hot irons burning their hair straight, and their inability to understand why all-white institutions bothered me so), and so we split up.  You might well say that my family was a victim of color-aroused ideation, emotion and behavior, at the individual, familial and societal levels.

Their mother would understand.  She has Rasta Locks, unlike the entire herd of Ms. Brazil candidates, all with straight and/or straightened hair.

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AJ Taylor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

For ages, style has always been an expression of who you are and so for any lady who is African or has a deep love for Africa, CJAJ09 is here to help you express that through your style and clothing.

CJAJ09 as a brand is all about Heritage. Its the story of our roots and background married with our future, sense of style and who we’ve become. Its about African print fabric being reinterpreted for our daily lives. Its about wearing your heart and your roots on your sleeve, literally.

Instore, we have a range of beautiful and lustworthy clothing made with the best and most beautiful of Ankara fabrics to cater for all styles, occassons and sizes. No matter your style or where you are looking to go, you will find something in our online store. We also offer a custom made clothing service to those who want to express their absolute individuality.

Our ever expanding range now includes bags and purses and a line of Adinkra symbol tees for ladies, with an accessories range to be launched early fall and menswear range to follow next year. Our aim is to provide a full range of clothing for everyone interested in Africa and its fashion. And all this is coming to you at unbelievably affordable prices.

CJAJ09 aims to offer its customers an ability to express yourself, represent your roots and shine in your own way without breaking the bank, through high quality, extremely affordable beautiful clothing. We offer international shipping so no matter where you are based, you can still shop with us. So Drop by our website and fall in Love with Africa like never before.

Visit us at www.cjaj09.com. To see more of what we have in store click here and go here to shop. To keep up with us and be the first to find out what’s new instore, join our facebook page or our mailing list.

CJAJ09- Rich In Ethnicity, Elegant In Style, Affordable In Price.

www.cjaj09.com

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You’re with us, right? Vote here: http://bit.ly/vote4lu

**You Must First Register/Sign-up on the PanlePicker site before you can vote. Next you’ll get a verification email, after clicking on the link in email you will be able to vote for our panel. SXSW will not contact you for anything else afterwards.**

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http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/ideas/view/11517

Organize:
Sherry Bitting – Parlour Media LLC
Speakers:
Hillary Crosley – Parlour Media LLC
Minna Salami – MsAfropolitan
Nicole Blake – Nicoleisthenewblack.com
Phiona Okumu – AfripopMag

Description:
The African Diaspora is vast and wide, and with that comes a variety of cultures separated by national boundaries but connected by the spirit and essence of Africa. For years, these cultures have lived separately with little understanding or connection to the lifestyles of others who share similar ideals, concerns or experiences abroad. The Internet has played a large role in connecting these cultures–through music, art, lifestyle and political interests. Over the past few years, there has been an emerging number of female bloggers of color who have become leading voices in their own communities and representations of their cultures to others all over the world. Parlour Media, owner of ParlourMagazine.com will host an open discussion featuring four leading female bloggers of color from three of the world’s leading countries to discuss lifestyle and digital trends from their local communities and the benefits that they have gained by connecting with similar women abroad. In addition, panelists will discuss the tools that they have used to build audiences and the strategies that they have found most effective in developing their sites. For global brands that wish to target this segment, this panel will offer a glimpse into the minds and lifestyles of this powerful group who serve as global voices of their communities. It will also offer an opportunity to better understand digital trends and tools that are driving online growth.

Questions Answered:
Who are some of the most influential female bloggers of color in key cities around the world?

How has the Internet helped to bridge the connection between women of the African Diaspora?

What are some of the digital trends that have contributed to online growth in some of the world’s largest cities?

What are some of the most popular lifestyle trends for women of color in Europe, Africa and the US and how has the Internet helped to connect these interests?

What brands are targeting women of color on global scale and who is doing it right? What are some of the most innovative online strategies designed to target this audience?

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(PRWEB) August 02, 2011
The Military Writers Society of America (MWSA) announces the finalists for its 2011 book awards. This year 66 books in 21 categories have received nominations. The MWSA book awards recognize outstanding military-themed books in a wide range of categories from children to adult. The categories include fiction, non-fiction, spiritual/religious, individual service branches, poetry, business/how to, and others. Entries included books published by traditional, subsidy, self-published, and e-book formats.

In addition, MWSA, together with the Center for the Study of the Korean War, Our History Project, and Positively Pittsburg Live, is a co-sponsor of a special Korean War Book Award. Six books are finalists in this category designed to raise awareness of the conflict known as the “Forgotten War.” The Korean War Book Award contest includes a First Prize Cash Award of $150, was open to all authors who have written a book about the Korean War, whether fiction or non-fiction.

The annual Awards program is MWSA’s most important and exciting function. We focus on content, style, visual, and technique. Each year, more active military, veteran and historians submit their work. Each year, the competition is more intense,” says Joyce Faulkner, president of Military Writers Society of America, “and 2011 is no exception.”

The Military Writers Society of America is an association of more than 800 authors, poets, artists, and photographers whose core principle is a love of the men and women who defend this nation, and an understanding and respect of their sacrifice and dedication.
MWSA 2011 Award Nominees (In no particular order)

Historical Fiction – Event

Beyond Those Hills by M.H.A. Menondji

David & the Mighty Eight by Marjorie Hodgson Parker

Victory Road by Mark Bowlin

The Corydon Snow by Richard Whitten Barnes

Once a Knight by Walt Shiel

Look Long Into the Abyss by A.R. Homer
Historical Fiction ? Chronicle

Shall Never See So Much by Gerald Gillis
Historical Fiction ? Protagonist

For Love of Country by William C. Hammond
Fiction ? Mystery

Loose Ends Kill by Bob Doerr

Laos File by Dale A. Dye

ARGOPELTER by Ronald Smith

I Know Why the Dogwoods Blush by Bill Cain
Fiction ? Thriller

Project Dragonslayers by Kathy Rowe

Pirates & Cartels by Lee & Vista Boyland

Sgt. Rock – The Lost Battalion, HC by Billy Tucci

The Mullahs Storm by Thomas W. Young
Fiction ? Literary

The Book in the Wall by John F. Simpson
Non-Fiction ? History

Eisenhower & Montgomery by William Weidner

Keeping the Promise by Donna Elliott

American Guerilla by Mike Guardia

Targeted Killing by Thomas B. Hunter

T-41 Mescalero: The Military Cessna 172 by Walt Shiel

Lost Eagles by Blaine L. Pardue
Non-Fiction ? Memoir

DAI Uy Hoch by David R. Hoch

Wing Wife by Marcia J. Sargent

Life Interrupted by War by Thomas van Hees

Lullabies for Lieutenants by Franklin Cox

We Came to Fight a War by Jack Flynn & Alvin E. Kotler

Earning My Wings by Shirley Dobbins Forgan
Non-Fiction ? Reference

Aerial Aces of the Universal Newsreel by Philip W. Stewart
Non-Fiction ? Biography

True Blue: A Tale of the Enemy Within by Joe Sanchez & MoDhania

Women in the U.S. Armed Forces by Darlene M. Iskra

Grey Eminence by Edward Cox

Beyond All Price by Carolyn Poling Schriber
Non-Fiction ? How To/Business

Disability Compensation by Thomas van Hees

Breastfeeding in Combat Boots by Robyn Roche-Paul
Non-Fiction ? Creative Non-Fiction

Gated Grief by Leila Levinson
Non-Fiction ? Spiritual/Religious

God + Military Spouse by Lori Kathleen Cline

A Prayer Journey through Deployment by Donna Mull

Bringing Courage to the Courageous by Don Williamson

I Want to be the Fat Pretty One by Lori Kathleen Cline
Artistic ? Pictorial

USAF Interceptors by Marty Isham & David McLaren
Poetry ? Book

Through the Years by James Jellerson

Blooming Red by Carolyn Howard-Johnson & Magdelina Ball

Kings of the Green Jelly Moon by L.King, J.Greenwald, J. Jellerson, M. Mullins
Children ? Ages 12 & Below

The Adventures of Briskey Bear by Steve Bolt

The Sandpiper’s Game by Charles Boyle

Klinger by Betsy Beard

Our Daddy is Invincible by Shannon Maxwell

Eddie & Bingo: A Friendship Tale by Katherine & Kathleen L. Taylor
Military ? Air Force

Safe Landings by Fran McGraw

Belle of the Brawl by Gary A. Best

The Men Who Killed the Luftwaffe by Jay A. Stout

Two Gold Coins and a Prayer by James H. Keeffe lll
Military ? Army

Incoming by Jack Manick

Alan’s Letters by Nancy E. Rial

Still Standing by Jim Kosmo

The Sentinel & the Shooter by Douglas W. Bonnot

Inside the President’s Helicopter by G.T. Boyd & J. Boor

War Remains by Jeffery Miller
Military ? Marines

Obediently Yours, Orson Welles by Ulman Bray
Military ? Navy

The Seventh Angel by Jeff Edwards

The Untold Experiences by C. Gilbert Lowery

Listening to Ghosts by Robert (Bob) Stockton
Military ? Coast Guard

The Coast Guard by Tom Beard
Korean War Book Award

Chitose Road by Robert S. Ruehrdanz

A Hill Called White Horse by Tony Sobieski

The Untold Experiences by C. Gilbert Lowery

Truman & MacArthur by Donald Farinacci

Eddie & Bingo by Kathleen & Katherine Taylor

War Remains by Jeffrey Miller

Congratulations M.H.A. Menondji!

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You can share your tours with friends, keep them private, or make them available to the public.

So the next time someone asks you where to go during their travels, just send them a link to your toour for that location. It’s easy!

To be notified about our launch, visit: http://ontoour.com/

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We are very happy and proud to launch the invitation for this promising international congress on early and forced marriages, which will be in held on October 26, 27 and 28, 2011 at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. This congress will be an important opportunity for sharing experiences and discussions concerning the issue of forced and early marriages in a Human Rights perspective. The main goal of the congress is to develop international exchanges and collaborations between its participants – government institutions, policymakers and legislators, UN Agencies, African First Ladies, NGO’s representatives, journalists and other working in media, victims, health promotions specialists, practitioners, academic researchers.

This will be a fantastic occasion to meet the most important researchers interested in women’s issues and organizations and agencies involved in promising interventions for women’s rights all around the world.

The conference will be in English and French.

All information is available on the website of Yellitaare at:

http://www.yellitaare.org/YELLITAARE-conference-events.php

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Adjoa Osei’s capsule collection, Adapt is an effortlessly chic array of hand finished jersey vests, loose fitting tops and bright maxi skirts all emboldened with a signature woven West African print detail.

The key focus of the both the collection and the brand is to enhance everyday pieces with African print, creating an ‘experimentally classic’ look for women who appreciate well placed accents of colour and detail without compromising on their simple, clean lined staples.

Adjoa Osei is not about seasonality, trend or shock factor but about intertwining signature West African print detail into the fabric of every day silhouettes making it accessible to everyone.

Adjoa Osei is about timeless, ever wearable pieces so you won’t find any clichéd tributes to ‘tribal’ inspired clothing here.

As the seasons change and garment trends evolve so will Adjoa Osei, creating limited handcrafted( in London), purposefully small collections, all carrying their signature print.

You will know an Adjoa Osei garment when you see it.

Adjoa Osei; ‘Experimentally Classic’.

To view the capsule collection Adapt please visit http://www.adjoaosei.com/#/collection/1/

To register for updates on new collections including the upcoming launch of the Adjoa Osei e-store visit www.adjoaosei.com or follow us on twitter @AdjoaOsei

For pr enquiries please contact info@adjoaosei.com +44 (0)7961 086 050

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This conference is designed to provide brain storming sessions and best practice sharing for the next 2012 Congress in West Africa. The program will empower women corporately to: BUILD a unique alliance of skills, STRENGTHEN our leadership skills and IMPACT in power our vision and the legacy of the women’s business community around the world. Our goal: Bring answers to the most complex needs of our society. Women act and the world changes!

October 28-29, 2011 – TORONTO CANADA

Toronto City Hall

VENUE

Courtyard Toronto Downtown

475 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4Y 1X7, Canada

You are invited to join us with other women, at this unprecedented meeting between Canadian women and black women around the world and from the whole Diasporas. All talented black women are expected.

The Courtyard Marriott Hotel Toronto offers a friendly atmosphere, quiet and comfortable.

Preview of conference schedule:

Friday: Check-in, Dinner and official representation of Africa Femmes Performantes in Toronto, special entertainment.

Saturday: inspirational sessions with Experts panelists will be composed of Parker Mabry, Executive Coach and President of The Anderson Advantage Group (TAAG) in the United States, Patricia Secke, President and Founder of “Africa Femmes Performantes,Inc.” and author of “Journey of a visionary”. Virginia Guidy, Managing Director of House of Shalom, Yvonne Kabeya Managing Director of the Coalition of Francophone immigrant women in Toronto Ontario, Lucie Nzorijana, Attorney in the Country of Burundi and many other talented women. (To suggest a communication and be part of our Experts team, please contact us at congres.international @ gmail.com)

Lunch with Keynote Speaker, Prophetess Prophetess Shelia Kasey Wojloh: Power of the vision
Guest Speaker: officials and Women Secretary of States in Africa; Powerful Testimonies of Women of Excellence!
Our Commitment: Make You women of Excellence!
Program registration and accomodation clic on the link

http://static.blog4ever.com/2008/08/232302/artfichier_232302_259646_201107202721777.pdf

congres.international@gmail.com

All information in English: Tel: +1-240-338-2187 – +1-240 701 3972

Canada: Yvonne Kabeya: (416)345-8449 Poste 102

yvonne@femmesperformantes.com
Français: +1-240 701 3972 ou + 1- 571-606-5215

Partnership inquiries : virginie@femmesperfomantes.com

Administration and registration annie@femmesperformantes.com or christophe@femmesperformantes.com
www.femmesperformantes.com
PARTNERS

__________________________________________
Africa Femmes Performantes,Inc
1812, Greenwich wood drive 32
Silver Spring MD, 20903 USA.
EIN number: 27/1581465 Maryland. USA

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An introduction to Aliesh Pierce

Celebrity makeup artist Aliesh Pierce flexes her skills in these exclusive makeup tutorials for Italian Vogue:

Smoky eyes

Natural look

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Only this week the Metro newspaper featured Meet the Adebanjo’s as what good to watch online and the producers believe it’s the result of the widespread interest in the sitcom which has made the BBC arrange a meeting for the 1st August.

Executive producer Andrew Osayemi says,

“Together with our co-production partners Fresh Media Productions we have set out from the start to be different and to provide quality Black British TV content which is lacking on TV and distribute it online. Now over the past 3 weeks major TV production companies including the BBC have been contacting us about the show”.

The show creator and producer Debra Odutuyo is asking the many fans of the sitcom to email her pointers to put forward to the commissioners as to why this show and shows like this should be shown on the BBC. Odutuyo says,

“watch the episodes online and then email me suggestions to help us at the meeting to info@meettheadebanjos.com – but hurry as the meeting is in a week’s time”.

2 episodes of the show have been released already online and the producers plan to not let this latest development distract them from their original plans and will release the final episode after the meeting with the BBC. Osayemi says,

“We will continue as planned to release the final episode then the rest of the boxset on DVD because our goal is first and foremost to create an industry where more Black British production can be made independently of mainstream backing and by buying the DVD that what you will help create”.

For anyone who has not watched the episodes please go to website www.meettheadebanjos.com and send in your suggestions to Debra and Andrew quickly as the 1st August is only 1 week away.

It’s time to place quality black British content firmly on the map of UK television. It starts from today! This revolution will be televised.

Website to watch Episodes: www.meettheadebanjos.com

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European Diversity and Inclusion Congress (EDIC)
High-­?level international forum for business executives, media and research institutions Vienna, 1st – 2nd March 2012Dear D&I Experts, Practitioners, Researchers etc.!

The European Diversity and Inclusion Congress –EDIC 2012 is happy to announce its call for speakers!
EDIC is a high-ranking international gathering of senior corporate managers, HR and CSR managers, diversity and inclusion experts and practitioners, government and non-government organization (NGO) officials, academics etc. focusing on the complex challenges and opportunities related to global diversity management.

EDIC provides its attendees with a two days of very unique, intensive and interactive experience, exposing them to a refreshing combination of cutting-edge tools and opportunities on the one hand and groundbreaking, trendsetting innovative research findings in the field of Diversity and Inclusion from both a European and global perspectives on the other hand.

Whereas day one is focusing on marketing diversity for business results, comparative advantages of flexible working arrangements both for companies and employees, taping into the pipeline of women and minorities, setting and managing diversity targets in an ever-changing workforce, day two is committed to Inclusion management, Innovative research findings, career development and human networks, diversity charters, employee engagement and satisfaction, placing a special focus on how companies and D&I experts can overcome challenges and create new opportunities in emerging workforces.

Exact conference location will be communicated shortly!

Submission and deadline

Interested speakers are kindly invited to take a close look at our agenda online by clicking on http://www.diversityleadership.eu/event/european-diversity-congress/agenda-2/ for our 2012 agenda, and to kindly select the topic/panel most suitable to their expertise.
Complete requests for speaking engagement should be sent to us via mail to achaleke@diversityleadership.eu preferably in word document form. Please make sure to include the following to make your submission complete:

An abstract with no more than 400 words briefly describing your input/approach to the chosen panel
Short bio with no more than 150 words clearly stating your expertise on the chosen panel/topic
1 printable photograph, no less than 300 DPI, for our Congress Journal
For the purpose of quick handling we encourage you to submit your complete registration no later than Monday 30th November 2011.The D&I Congress enjoys a high demand of speaking engagements from extremely high-profile leaders from around the globe. Speakers will therefore be considered depending on availability of speaking opportunities. Selected speaker will receive a notice with our speaker’s commitment form and an invitation to proceed to official online registration.Target audience of EDIC

The EDIC is an ideal Forum for Business and the public sector, leaders and decision-makers seeking insight, expertise and solutions on how to stay competitive and successful in today’s rapidly changing workforces and marketplaces.

Our target audiences include high-profile international diversity and inclusion experts, CEOs, academia, D&I practitioners, authors, journalists etc, seeking to share their insights, strategies, benefits, challenges, opportunities on how today’s businesses can best manage and profit from inclusive diversity.

EDIC is an excellent training and learning place for organisational development specialists, diversity, minority and gender trainers and coaches, policy-makers and anyone interested in diversity and inclusion and seeking maximum output at the lowest cost.

EDIC’s setting and selected topics are most carefully designed to meet the needs of companies and D&I mangers with little money, seeking to improve their company D&I profile and reputation.

Expected number of participants

Each of our past diversity leadership conferences has attracted over 230 participants from all over the world. However, for the purpose of interactively and intensively engaging and taping into the expertise and biographies of both our speakers and attendees we are consciously limiting the maximum number our participants for 2012 to 200.

Congress language

The Congress will be held both in English and German according to speaker’s preference. Simultaneous Interpretation will be provided in both languages as needed.

Visit our website http://www.diversityleadership.eu for any further information.

It is our duty and pleasure to assist you through a smooth and quick registration procedure, so feel free to contact us for any assistance. You can reach us by phone +43 9660 11 969 115 or by email: achaleke@diversityleadership.eu

I personally look forward to welcoming you on board our high profile speakers’ community, to Vienna in and to EDIC 2012.

Let the sun shine!

Beatrice Achaleke
CEO Diversity Leadership
EDIC Founder & Congress Manager

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Tickets to the shows are free, but to win a VIP ticket, simply comment here and state who you think is the most influential woman of African descent on the London fashion scene. Is she a designer, model, make up artist, hair stylist, fashion journalist, or other super star?

Share her name and if possible a link to her website or an article about her. Winners will be chosen randomly.

Thank you for your entry and good luck.

Tickets/Schedule: August 5th and 6th

Venue: Gibson Hall 13 Bishopsgate London EC2N 3BA

For more information: ronke@africafashionweeklondon.com

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The trip is a continuation of Mrs. Obama’s work to engage young people, especially girls and young women, at home and abroad.

The First Lady’s Trip: Service Projects in South Africa & Botswana

“Obama Ye-Le-Le”: First Lady Michelle Obama Arrives in Botswana

Push-ups with the Archbishop and More of Cape Town with the First Lady

“The Most Moving Part of My Trip So Far”: The First Lady on Meeting Nelson Mandela in South Africa

In Soweto with First Lady Michelle Obama: A Day of Memory, Inspiration, Friendship

View photos of First Lady Obama and her daughters in Africa.

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Most production companies who want to get a sitcom onto television follow a set path. Have an idea. Make a pilot. Pitch it. And keep on pitching it. Hopefully it will get picked up. But what happens if, like TV Producer Debra Odutuyo, it doesn’t get picked up even though you know you have a hit show on your hands and you have a hungry and waiting audience?

Well, you create your own production company, raise money yourself, leave the mainstream commissioners behind and hit the world of social media to engage directly with your audience. This is what South London-based MTA Productions – the dynamic production team created by two enterprising 26 year old Britons: Andrew Osayemi, a former trader, and Debra Odutuyo, a TV producer – has done.

On Sunday 26th June, at least 100,000 British viewers are expected to head to www.MeetTheAdebanjos.com, to officially meet the hilarious Adebanjo family, a fictional British Nigerian family who will put a new face to British sitcoms. Meet The Adebanjo’s is MTA Productions’ first broadcast-quality online sitcom. It features a cast of loud and unforgettable characters, and highlights the multi-generational and multi-cultural family dynamics that take place when traditional African parents raise British-born children. These families exist all over the UK, yet remain unrepresented on mainstream television.

Meet The Adebanjo’s is more than just a show, though – it’s a movement. The show’s makers – Osayemi and Odutuyo – want to let the UK’s TV establishment know that the market for British TV is strong, vibrant and hungry for content that speaks about a unique British experience. And if the old boys club won’t let them in, they’re going to do it for themselves.

“For the past five years I have been working on this project and trying to sell the concept of the sitcom to mainstream broadcasters in the UK,” says Odutuyo. “After countless rejections, I resolved not to give up on my dream by spending the last two years doing everything I possibly could do to raise money to film eight episodes. I eventually raised enough money from private investors to produce a broadcast quality show.” That show is Meet The Adebanjo’s.

The Meet The Adebanjo’s team is now using the power of the internet and social media – Facebook, youtube and www.MeetTheAdebanjos.com – to provide an avenue which independent production companies can create their own content and independently distribute direct to their market. Already, the “leaked” show’s trailer – released just one week ago – has commanded over 20,000 youtube views and thousands of positive comments.

The team is currently urging fans and supporters to get firmly behind the movement and spread the word about Meet the Adebanjo’s far and wide as the more views the show gets the more commercial advertisers will be attracted to invest in advertising in quality independent online sitcoms. Hopefully this is just what the UK’s TV establishment needs to sit up and pay attention.

It’s time to place quality independent British content firmly on the map of UK television. It starts on June 26th. This revolution will betelevised. Or at least, it will be at www.MeetTheAdebanjos.com

For more information on Meet the Adebanjo’s contact:Andrew@meettheadebanjos.comOfficial – http://www.youtube.com/watch?Leaked Trailer – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr5EIDnQbHs

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ENTREPRENEUR
At 45, this African entrepreneur is internationally recognized for her expertise in management, her understanding of development issues and her strong stance on Africa, its women and youths. She was recognized in 2008 by the World Bank as one of 7 women entrepreneurs in AfricaOver the past 15 years, Walla has developed an African firm which offers consulting services in leadership and management, respecting the highest norms and standards in the international market.

STRATEGIES! offers services to multinational firms as well as international development organizations. She is a board member of the World Entrepreneurship Forum. Political choices oriented by professional experience: Whether it is economic strategy, decentralization, the inclusion of young people and women in policy design and implementation, the creation of jobs, or the leadership of Cameroon in the Central Africa sub-region; solutions proposed by Walla are clearly inspired by her 25 years of experience in these areas, her worldwide network on issues of development and her fieldwork. Grassroots, Grassroots, Grassroots! This is Kah Walla’s favorite word. For over 20 years, she has worked with civil society in Cameroon and Africa developing policies and projects at international, national and local levels with farmers, traders, motorbike drivers, persons with disabilities, fishermen, students associations, governments, etc. This is how she translates her vision of a “Cameroon governed with and for the people.”

POLITICAL STANDS
To help the grassroots organize to defend its interests and have a voice in defining and implementing policies at the national level, Kah Walla created Cameroon Ô’Bosso, a citizenship movement whose 11 demands for electoral reform in Cameroon and call for the massive registration of voters on electoral lists are at the heart of political debate.Well known for her strong stands on issues of transparency and budget management, in the Douala 1 Council, she also took a clear position in 2008 against the constitutional amendment in favor of the non-limitation of presidential terms of office. Since 2009, she has provided criticism, but also concrete suggestions for repairing the legitimacy and technical ability of the independent electoral commission. On October 23, 2010, Kah Walla resigned from the Social Democratic Front over differences on the strategic approach to the 2011 elections. She announced her candidacy to the office of President of the Republic of Cameroon and began running a campaign on the slogan « THE TIME IS NOW ! »

Find out more about Kah Walla.

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Janet Rolle, who has led marketing strategy and execution for leading media brands at BET, MTV Networks and HBO, will join CNN Worldwide as executive vice president and chief marketing officer, it was announced today by Jim Walton, president of CNN Worldwide. Rolle, who will report directly to Walton, will be based in New York.

Rolle is joining CNN from BET Networks, where as executive vice president and chief marketing officer she led brand strategy and marketing efforts, including on-air promotions, off-channel and digital marketing, affiliate and trade marketing. She directed a redesign of the BET network on air, and comprehensive, multi-platform marketing campaigns for the brand’s signature successes, including BET’s history-making scripted series THE GAME, The BET Honors and the BET Awards, for which BET received multiple Promax/BDA Awards. Advertising Age magazine named her one of “10 Who Made Their Mark” in 2010 for her noteworthy brand development work at BET.

Read the full story.

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In this newly created position she directs diversity media operations for all GM brands, including Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, GMC, and OnStar.

Brooke is responsible for overseeing multiplatform consumer media plans for the multicultural market while also managing diversity agency relationships, from developing concepts for media research to developing contracts with TV, Print, Radio and digital media partners including, Oprah Winfrey Network, BET, MTV and Univision. Brooke also manages GM’s multi-million dollar diversity media budget.

Prior to joining GM, Brooke was manager of marketing and media relations for PricewaterhouseCoopers, where she lead the automotive focused media, marketing, and client relationships. Brooke’s team helped position PWC’s automotive division in the forefront of the industry. She was responsible for developing signature events, emerging market campaigns and media placement.

Read the full story.

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360 Entrepreneurship Summit for women – Malmö, Sweden 16-18 September 2011

”360 perspectives: using passion and purpose to connect and grow your business”

Are you a passionate, creative and committed woman entrepreneur who wants to make most of your potential in business? If the answer is yes, then 360Entrepreneurship is the place for you.

They promise an exiting and varied program that will stretch your thinking and knowledge. Giving you many opportunities to promote yourself and your business, gaining new skills and build valuable business connections. The three day conference will engage delegates in discussions addressing numerous aspects of women entrepreneurship and take action to develop business capacity, leadership and growth for women enterprise.

Black Women in Europe™ is an official Partner Network of the 360 Entrepreneurship Summit and members receive a 100 Euro discount on conference registration fees.
For more information, please visit http://360entrepreneurship.com/

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We are currently accepting applications. Application Deadline: Wednesday March, 30 2011

Application Package for 2011 MILEAD Fellows

Moremi Initiative for Women’s Leadership in Africa is pleased to announce its call for applications for the 2011 Moremi Leadership Empowerment and Development (MILEAD) Fellows Program.

The MILEAD Fellows Program is a one-year leadership development program designed to identify, develop and promote emerging young African Women leaders to attain and succeed in leadership in their community and Africa as a whole. The program targets dynamic young women interested in developing transformational leadership skills that help them tackle issues affecting women in their communities and society as a whole. Applications are welcome from young African women living in Africa and the Diaspora.

MILEAD fellowship awards will be made to 25 young women with exceptional qualities who have exhibited leadership potential in their community, organization, and/or profession. To be eligible for the one-year program, an applicant must be African, living on the continent or in the Diaspora; agree to participate in all required activities related to MILEAD including a three-week residential Summer Institute in August; and commit to a community leadership service project. Applicant must be between 19 – 25 years of age. Specific requirements of the program and related dates are outlined in the application package.

Please note that this is not a full-time fellowship. Selected candidates may remain full time students or work full time for the program duration, except during the 3–week summer institute. The 3-week summer institute is an intensive and full-time residential program and all fellows will be required to attend. The rest of the program involves community-based, online and other distance activities.

We invite you to forward the enclosed MILEAD application materials to emerging young African Women leaders with the potential to help transform Africa.

The deadline for completed MILEAD Fellows applications to be submitted for review is March 30, 2011.

Download application Package for Year 2011 MILEAD Fellows as PDF or DOC

For more application forms or additional information, please contact:

MILEAD Program Coordinator

GHANA
P.O. Box CT 5604
Accra, Ghana
Tel: +233 21 770 736
Email: info@moremiinitiative.org
www.moremiinitiative.org

USA
2870 Peachtree Road ,
Suite 174 Atlanta , GA 30305-2918
Email: info@moremiinitiatives.org
Tel: +1 404 826 2942
www.moremiinitiative.org

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Our keynote speaker will be Noah Sow, the acclaimed journalist, musician, producer and author of “Germany Black & White” (2008), who will speak about “Geteilte Geschichte: The Black Experience in Germany and the US.” ISBN: 978-3-570-01008-2

PROPOSALS:
Proposals for workshops, panels, or paper presentations need to be submitted to BGCS (bgcsinc@gmail.com) by May 1, 2011 together with the registration for the convention. We will attempt to accommodate all applications and will notify you by the end of May 31, 2011 about the format and time slot assigned to you.

BOOK / PROJECT EXHIBIT:
There will be a book and project exhibit at the convention. Please sign up for this providing detailed information about what you would like to exhibit together with your registration for the convention by May 1, 2011 (at bgcsinc@gmail.com). Book or DVD sales will not be possible during the convention.

For more information and to register, please visit the CONVENTION WEBSITE.

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Do you call yourself a feminist – or do you shy away from “The F-Word” like a vampire shies away from garlic?

Do you follow Alice Walker’s example and think of yourself a womanist instead?

Or do you believe that the biggest part of that particular battle has already been fought and it’s time for us all to simply move on?

No matter on which side of this discussion you fall, you are invited to join me with my guest, writer and blogger Minna Salami, as we discuss the role and importance of female liberation for women of African descent living and working in Europe.

http://ow.ly/478za

Topic: The Other “F-Word”
Special Guest: Minna Salami (writer and blogger)
Date: 15 March 2011
Time: 7.30 pm CET // 1.30 pm EST
Duration: Approx. 60 minutes
Dial-in*: +1-724-444-7444 (Call I.D. 95377)
URL*: http://www.talkshoe.com/tc/95377

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Image courtesy of the National Library of Jamaica

When Mary Seacole nursed the sick and wounded on the front line in the Crimea she did not ask for, or expect any reward. She did it for the British troops, who she loved and admired. They responded in equal generosity to the person they called “Mother Seacole”.

Image courtesy of the National Portrait Gallery, London

Mary Seacole was not a person to duck a challenge. She broke the race barrier to win the hearts and minds of the British people. She is a wonderful example of an individual who was determined to make a difference. She did so with the force of her personality and her untiring entrepreneurial spirit. This is why she remains such a powerful role model in today’s vibrant and diverse society.

–Lord Soley of Hammersmith, Chair of the Trustees

Make your donation:
http://www.maryseacoleappeal.org.uk/

Special event:

A visit to the National Portait Gallery to see the new display of Mary Seacole’s portrait.

The famous portait has recently been returned to the gallery after a period of being on loan. There is now a brand new display board next to the painting.

Thurs March 10th at 7pm, come for a talk on the portait and a highlights tour of the National Portrait Gallery collection. Please meet in the main hall. Ask for Paul Metcalfe Johnson for a highlights tour of the gallery.

There will be an opportunity to have a photograph taken which will be added to the offical website and help raise more awareness of the ongoing campaign.

There will be a charge of £5 per person, with all funds going towards the campaign.

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Mandate and background
GA resolution 64/169 proclaimed the year beginning on 1 January 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent, with a view to strengthening national actions and regional and international cooperation for the benefit of people of African descent in relation to their full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights, their participation and integration in all political, economic, social and cultural aspects of society, and the promotion of a greater knowledge of and respect for their diverse heritage and culture.

In its resolution 14/16, the HRC decided to convene a panel discussion during the high-level segment of its sixteenth session focusing on the full enjoyment of the human rights of people of African descent, to mark the International Year for People of African Descent.

Focus and objectives
The panel will discuss the situation of people of African Descent with a focus on the issues that constitute challenges to the full enjoyment of their human rights. People of African descent have been historically discriminated against and are recognized as a victim group in the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. With the declaration by the GA of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent, the HRC will take this opportunity during its 16th session to examine what obstacles exist to their enjoyment of social, economic, cultural, civil and political rights.

Panelists will be asked to make presentations on the different challenges facing people of African descent, such as education, housing, employment and the full integration into social, economic and political life and at all levels of decision-making. As well as the challenges that persist, panelists will be asked to indicate good practices that may be followed to effectively address the problems facing people of African descent.

Opening statement: High Commissioner for Human Rights
Moderator: H.E. Ambassador Mr. Sihasak PHUANGKETKEOW President of the Human Rights Council 2

Panelists:
• Ms. Mirjana Najcevska, Chairperson of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
• Dr. Luis Almagro, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay
• Mr. Pastor Murillo, member of CERD
• Ms. Epsy Campbell, President, Centre for Afro-Costarican Women, San Jose, Costa Rica

Format
The opening addresses and the presentations by the panelists will be followed by an interactive discussion. This discussion will be divided, in principle, into two slots of 60 minutes each (45 minutes for comments and questions from the floor, followed by 15 minutes for comments and replies by panelists). The modalities of the panel are: 7 minutes for panelists, 3 minutes for Member States and 2 minutes for Observers. Depending on the number of speakers inscribed, the moderator may adjust the speaking time appropriately in order to enhance the interactive nature of the discussion. The interactive debate will be followed by concluding remarks by the moderator.

Outcome
The discussion will increase awareness of the International Year for People of African Descent as well as the challenges that continue to face people of African descent regarding the full enjoyment of their human rights. Good practices will also be highlighted. All interventions will be posted on the extranet of the HRC. HCHR will take into account the discussion when formulating concrete actions relating to people of African descent.

Background documents
• Resolution of the General Assembly proclaiming the International Year for people of African Descent (A/RES/64/169);
• Resolution of the Human Rights Council deciding to convene a panel on the full enjoyment of the human rights of people of African descent during its 16th session;
• Report of the Secretary-General on a draft programme of activities for the International Year for People of African Descent (A/65/227 and Add.1)

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Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater has enjoyed a celebrated career as a United States Foreign Service officer who has led diplomatic efforts that helped change the course of world events. A native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Ambassador Bridgewater is a graduate of Walker-Grant High School. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Virginia State University, received a master of arts degree in political science from the University of Cincinnati, and completed course work and advanced to candidacy for the PhD degree from the American University School of International Service.

A Foreign Service Career Minister, Ambassador Bridgewater’s overseas tours include Belgium, The Bahamas, and Jamaica. She has served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, and was the first African-American woman to serve as principal officer (consul general) in Durban, South Africa. She has the distinction of being the longest-serving U.S. diplomat in South Africa during the historic transition from Apartheid to a nonracial government. As the political officer assigned to cover Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress, a former U.S. Ambassador to South Africa said, “Bridgewater established a degree of trust and confidence with Mr. Mandela and the ANC leadership that the U.S. had not previously enjoyed.”

At the height of the most recent civil war in Liberia, Ambassador Bridgewater was named Special Coordinator for Peace in Liberia and spearheaded the efforts that led to a comprehensive peace agreement and democratic elections. Her extraordinary accomplishments and leadership abilities led President Bill Clinton to name her U.S. Ambassador to Benin; President George W. Bush to name her U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, and now, President Obama has asked her to serve as his representative as Chief of the United States Mission in Jamaica.

Before joining the diplomatic corps, Ambassador Bridgewater was a university professor at Morgan State University and Bowie State University in Maryland, and Voorhees College in South Carolina. She received honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from Virginia State University and the University of Cincinnati, and Morgan State University awarded her an honorary Doctor of Public Service.

There is a consistent theme that appears throughout Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater’s professional life, and that is her role as both mediator and mentor. As a professor, she intellectually challenged and encouraged her students who later distinguished themselves as states’ attorney generals, judges, academicians and authors. Among Ambassador Bridgewater’s mentees is former Jamaican Minister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade and Ambassador, Anthony Hylton, who was her political science student at Morgan State University.

A tireless public servant, Ambassador Bridgewater has won numerous commendations for her contributions to international affairs and public policy including the Girl Scouts of Virginia Lifetime Achievement Award, the Dominion Power Strong Leaders Award, and the 100 Black Women’s Candace Award. She is the recipient of the U.S. Presidential Meritorious Service Award, the Charles Cobb Award for Trade Promotion, and three Department of State Superior Honor Awards.

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Jennifer Saporia King currently serves as the lead foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) focusing on persons at risk due to the release of Wiki Leaks material. Ms. King began her State Department career as an intern for DRL in the Fall of 2002. She then returned as a 2003 Presidential Management Fellow assigned to the Bureau of Diplomatic Security in the Office of Intelligence and Threat Analysis’ Middle East and North Africa division.

In 2005 Ms. King rotated into DRL as a foreign affairs officer with DRL’s programming unit where she implemented more than $300 million in grants for human rights and democracy funds. In August of 2007, Ms. King volunteered for a hard-to-fill position as a political officer in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Her portfolio included human rights, women’s rights, and rule of law issues.

Ms. King, a native of Connecticut graduated from Spelman College with a B.A. in English in 1993. She then joined the United States Navy, where she served for six years as an Arabic translator. In 2003, she graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a M.S. in international studies concentrating on the Middle East.

Before volunteering for a position in Saudi Arabia she served as a foreign affairs officer for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL). She has traveled to Afghanistan, India, Lebanon, and Nepal.

As a diplomat Ms. King wants to learn how to say “thank you” in 50 languages before her 50th birthday. As of February 2011 she can say “thank you” in 34 languages.

Ms. King credits her accomplishments to Harriet Tubman. Her goal is to make sure she achieves the liberties that were denied to Harriet Tubman and others like her.

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• Feature designers from the whole of Africa;
• Offer those in the fashion industry a free platform on which to showcase their brands;
• Act as an opportunity for fashion designers to network among each other;
• Create a portal for new designers to enter into the market and integrate into the international fashion system;
• Highlight the African Textile Industry to a global audience thereby enhancing development;
• Enable African countries to showcase their national fabrics through their designers, thereby enabling them to carve a niche in the global market;
• Make African textiles visible to the rest of the world by creating an interactive platform that will involve the Media, Manufacturers, Designers, Retailers and Consumers.

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Africa Fashion Week London will be attended by fashion designers, milliners, fabric manufacturers and printers, jewelers, beauty range manufacturers, leather goods designers and manufacturers, perfumers, photographers, make-up artists, models, media houses, buyers, local and international press and indeed anyone that has any link with fashion, especially with an African interest. The event is open to all members of the public.
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Participants include new/emerging designers under the Revelation label and renowned fashion designers. Categories accepted include fashion design, textile prints, accessories, bridals, jewelers, foot wears, milliners, lingerie and swimwear.
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The event will host over 2000 members of the public.
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Africa Fashion Week London is organized by Ronke Ademiluyi of Rukkies Concept and produced by Mahogany Productions.
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For General Enquiries please contact:ronke@africafashionweeklondon.com.
For Media Enquiries please contact: kamari@africafashionweeklondon.com.
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www.africafashionweeklondon.com.

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“Keepin’ the Beat: An Afternoon with James Bradley Jr.”

DATE: Sunday, February 20, 2011
TIME: 14.30 – 17.30
ADDRESS: Vanadisvägen 29, Stockholm (corner Västmannagatan)
ADMISSION: 220 sek (cash only), including reception

Galleri Duerr is pleased to present, “Keepin’ the Beat: An Afternoon with James Bradley Jr.”

Bradley, a world renowned drummer, will be interviewed by current U.S. Fulbright Fellow Mamie Hyatt, who is also the event’s organizer.

Taking the form of a ‘Question and Answer’ session, Hyatt will interview Bradley on topics that will include his personal history, his music and his acting career. Throughout the interview, photographs, film and concert footage will be shown. Additionally there will be a period where the audience may ask Bradley questions.

A child drumming prodigy by the age of 4, Bradley, or “JBJ” as he is affectionately called, has appeared on several noted American TV shows that included “The Nat King Cole Show,” “The Jack Benny Show” and later “The Cosby Show” and in the film, “Cool Hand Luke.” As Bradley’s music career progressed, he performed and toured with several musical greats such as Chuck Mangione, Anita Baker, Jeffrey Osborne, Mary’s Danish, The Beastie Boys, Crazy Town and Lenny Kravitz, amongst many, many more.

A soup and wine reception will follow immediately after where the audience will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with Bradley.

“Keepin’ the Beat: An Afternoon with James Bradley Jr.” is sponsored by the Embassy of the United States, Stockholm, Sweden. In celebration of the United States’ recognition of National African American History Month, “Keepin’ the Beat” highlights the diversity of Stockholm as well as the unique and invaluable
contributions of African American culture to Sweden. The event follows U.S. President Barack Obama’s call to recognize and celebrate African American culture during the month of February:

“During National African American History Month, we recognize the extraordinary achievements of African Americans and their essential role in shaping the story of America” – President Obama’s National African American Heritage Month Proclamation.

For more information contact:
Deborah Duerr, director of GALLERI DUERR
telephone: 070-307 34 32, email: info@fantasihuset.se

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The deadline for letters to Michelle, book 2 has been extended to March 1, 2011. We are also asking that you complete a survey, regardless of whether you intend to submit a letter. More information and the survey are available at our webpage: Go, Tell Michelle, Book 2

Deadline for submissions is 1 March 2011.

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The Association of Students of African Heritage (ASAH) cordially invites you to the fourth edition of Black History Month on 18th and 25th February 2011.
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Theme: “The Economics of Culture – the way we dress, eat and express ourselves from an economic perspective”
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Many African and Afro-Caribbean countries are endowed with resources that could stimulate economic stability and independence. However, many of those are plight by economic inefficiencies coupled with a constant dependence on global resources. For example, “one may see a black woman elegantly clothed with traditional attire. But her cloth may be from Vlisco (the Dutch manufacturer of African prints), shoes/slippers from Italy and earrings/jewelleries from Thailand. Instead of local manufactures many prefer Hollywood movies over Nollywood/Ghallywood/Black films or even opt for Indian Basmati or American Uncle Sam rice instead of locally cultivated rice etc”.
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Considering the trends of commerce, “to what extent are we (Blacks) economically independent when we portray the African/ (Afro-) culture”?

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***Day 1: Friday February 18th – Culture and Entrepreneurship
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The first day of BHM 2011 focuses on culture and the similarities between Blacks from the Diaspora and the African continent. It also provides an opportunity to explore the economic aspect of culture. Furthermore, day 1 serves as a window to showcase and promote Afro-businesses, as well as a means to network.
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The day is set up as follows:
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*Through the conceptualization of culture and what constitutes the African/(Afro-) culture, a “Black Cultural Expert”, Mrs. Natasha A. Kelly from Berlin, will enlighten us with reference to the theme. The expert will talk about various developments in the Black culture over the years. She will give an extended view on “The Dynamics of Afro-Culture. Politics, Economics and Esthetics of Blackness in Europe”.
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*Fashion show: Traditional clothing from the African continent and the Diaspora will be displayed. Two different kinds of clothing from the following areas is to be modelled:
-West Africa
-East Africa
-Southern Africa
-Former Netherlands Antilles
-Suriname
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During the fashion show, information will be provided about the attires, their origins, designer etc.
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*Entrepreneurs: After the fashion show, Mrs. Lori van Echtelt of Mariposa Import, will share her views on “Black consumerism and entrepreneurship”.
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*Cultural treats/snacks: There will be cultural snacks to enjoy. Information will be provided about the ingredients used, its origin, the caterers and/or where to buy them.
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*There will also be a spoken word performance by T. Martinus. The day ends with a musical performance!
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When: Friday, 18th February 2011
Venue: Afro Cultureel Centrum Samen Sterk,
Address: Zieken 103, 2515 SB Den Haag
A 3 minute walk from train station The Hague HS
Parking is available, free parking from 17:00
Website: http://www.samensterkdenhaag.nl/
Doors open: at 17.30
The programme starts: at 18:00
Entrance: Free
Language: English and Dutch
Pre-Registration is appreciated, please sent a mail to info@asah-eur.nl
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***Day 2: Friday February 25th – Presentation and workshop entrepreneurship
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The second day of BHM 2011 consists of a workshop and an interactive presentation at the Erasmus University.
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*Workshop: To encourage the youth and BHM participants of African heritage to take initiative to become entrepreneurs, Ms. W. Gillis-Burleson – managing director of Legato B.V. and the best Black Business Woman 1997 – will give a workshop on empowerment and entrepreneurship. This workshop aims to equip participants with some fundamental knowledge, tools and skills essential for business for starters.
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*Presentation: Mr. T. Kofi – Director of the Foundation Africa Next Door – will talk about the consumption trends of Black people and its consequences. Mr. Kofi will show the correlation between the African continent and Black communities worldwide. Participants or the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions or share their opinion. Amongst others, there will be a debate/discussion on “Does our culture inhibit us to enterprise?” during the discussion round.
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When: Friday, 25th February 2011
Venue: Erasmus University Rotterdam,
C-Building, Room CB-109
Doors open: at 16.30
The programme starts: at 17:00
Entrance: Free
Language: English and Dutch
Pre-Registration is appreciated, please sent a mail to info@asah-eur.nl
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We, ASAH, look forward to celebrate Black History Month 2011 with you!
For further info: visit www.asah-eur.nl
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Black History Month 2011 is presented in collaboration with
NiNsee (Nationaal instituut Nederlands slavernijverleden en erfenis) see: http://www.ninsee.nl/

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BRUSSELS–Joyce van Genderen-Naar, a Brussels based lawyer who is very much at home in European Union (EU) matters is cautioning Caribbean nations against ratifying the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the European Union and the Cariforum countries.
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“Ratifying this agreement will be disastrous to our countries, as it will open our doors to more imports from the EU … yes, our exports will have 100% access to European markets, but we don’t have the means to,” warned Suriname-born Van Genderen-Naar who in her capacity as lawyer acts as advisor to Caribbean organizations in EU matters.
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The CARIFORUM-EU EPA, signed in October 2008, is a trade and development agreement which covers not only trade in goods, but also services, investment, social and labor standards, competition policy and transparency in government procurement. It is the first (and, to date, only) comprehensive regional EPA in any ACP (Africa, Caribbean, Pacific) region. The agreement was signed on 15 October 2008 and provisionally applied as of 29 December 2008. It provides for the gradual and asymmetric liberalization of trade in goods, services and investment between the Caribbean signatories and the EU with the objective of fostering the sustainable development of the Caribbean region.
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Van Genderen-Naar said countries like Suriname should place their best judicial staff on this agreement before actually tabling it in Parliament for ratification. “These are very complex matters that even I as a lawyer who deals with them daily, have trouble understanding. But they should not be taken lightly, because if we’re not careful, products in our countries will become more expensive and people will suffer.”
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She explained that under the EU regime, Caribbean countries will no longer be allowed to levy customs duties for imports from the EU. “And customs duties are a substantial source of income for Caribbean countries like Suriname,” she said.
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Meanwhile, she continued, EU countries place high demands on goods that may be imported into their markets. “They have all sorts of rules and standards that you can only apply to, if you have the latest techniques and most modern equipment; we don’t have those techniques and equipments, so we will not be able to comply, which means that our exports will diminish. So while we earn less from customs duties, we also have less income from exports. . If we sign this agreement we will basically allow the EU at our bread and butter,” she said.
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The lawyer hinted that this is no different from the track records European Countries have left over the past 500 years. “In their eyes we are still no more than territories there for their profit,” she said.
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She said Suriname has enough other opportunities for its exports. “There are enough other countries and regions that want to do business with us. If we don’t ratify this agreement, the only thing that could harm is our banana export. But not our bauxite exports to Norway (Norway is not a member of the EU) or our oil exports. It cannot hurt our tourism industry. On the other hand, China is showing a lot of interest in Suriname, as is Brazil,” she said, emphasizing: “Suriname already has a tough time entering the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) with its exports. Imagine how much tougher the EU will make it for us if we open our markets to them like this. We’re not at equal playing level, so we should think this through properly.”
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Total EU trade with the Caribbean region amounts to more than €8.5 billion per year. EU exports to the Caribbean include chemicals and machinery and transport equipment. Caribbean exports to the EU include agricultural products, fuels and chemicals. The CARIFORUM region includes 15 countries: Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Haiti signed the Agreement on 10 December 2009.

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Maggie Kadi, Founder of Project Sierre Leone

I have started a venture called ‘Project Sierra Leone‘ and it is all about empowering the women of Sierra Leone. I was born in Sierra Leone but have been living in the UK for the last 17 years. I recently went back for a visit after all this time and was blinded by the colours and buzz of the place.

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I visited a few markets and made contact with 7 women that were in a bad situation. They made the most amazing products but were struggling to sell them as Sierra Leone is one of the poorest countries in the world. Believe me, I am not a designer or anything but I left them thinking that surely there must be a way that I can help. I have a passion for handbags as I am the proud owner of about 200 bags myself so I thought that could be a great starting point. I came back to London and gave up my job at Sky Sports (PA to Director of Operations, Sky Sports) because I feel like this is so much more rewarding as I am investing in people and changing lives.

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I love different textures so I decided to get some handbeaded clutch bags made but in simple designs. All the bags are lined in the finest African Cloth and they have a zip for easy access. I have only got a limited collection of 10 at the moment because I wanted to firstly see how they will be received and secondly to search for outlets to showcase my beautiful goodies. All the women I work with are paid a fair wage. By this I mean they are paid the prices they set per item. The bags are priced at £70 each.

I have also made some beautiful Kaftans. I think Kaftans are so versatile because they are not just meant to be worn on the beach. Team it up with leggings, skinny jeans and you are good to go! The Kaftans are priced at £60.

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Visit Project Sierre Leone and find out how you can help, or contact Margaret on projectsierraleone@yahoo.com.

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TUNIS (AFP) – Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi vowed a transition to democracy as hundreds of women rallied on Saturday in the Tunisian capital to express their fears of an Islamist resurgence.

Women’s groups took to the streets of Tunis to defend the extensive rights for which they have fought for more than half a century, on the eve of the return of Islamist leader Rached Ghannouchi from exile.
Actresses, university lecturers and human rights campaigners said they wanted to make sure their rights stay intact despite the recent upheavals.

Read the full story on Yahoo! News.

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Posted: January 27, 2011 at 2:03 PM By Jenna Krajeski

An unprecedented number of Egyptian women participated in Tuesday’s anti-government protests. Ghada Shahbandar, an activist with the Egyptian Organization for Human Rights, estimated the crowd downtown to be 20 percent female. Other estimates were as high as 50 percent. In past protests, the female presence would rarely rise to 10 percent. Protests have a reputation for being dangerous for Egyptian women, whose common struggle as objects of sexual harassment is exacerbated in the congested, male-dominated crowd. Police hasten to fence in the demonstrators, and fleeing leads to violence. And women, whose needs are not reflected in the policies of official opposition groups who normally organize protests, have little reason to take the risk.

Read the full story on Slate.

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GHI Spring Lecture Series 2011

Crossing the Color Line: A Global History of the African American Freedom Struggle

Organized by Martin Klimke (GHI)

African American civil rights activists early on conceived of their struggle for racial equality as part of a larger struggle against colonialism in Africa, Asia, and South America. This lecture series brings together scholars from both sides of the Atlantic to reflect on this booming field of African America history and to shed light on how both African Americans’ quest for equality and the responses to it transcended the borders of the United States. Focusing on new actors and geographic regions, the series will offer a more comprehensive perspective on the civil rights movement.

All lectures begin at 6:30 pm (refreshments will be served from 6:00 to 6:30 pm) and will be held at the German Historical Institute, 1607 New Hampshire Avenue NW (Directions). Please RSVP (acceptances only) by Tel. 202.387.3355, Fax 202.387.6437 or E-mail.

Bourgeois Radicals: The NAACP and the Struggle for Colonial Liberation, 1941-1960
March 24, 2011
Speaker: Carol Anderson (Emory University)

Global Perspectives on the Black Freedom Struggle
April 21, 2011
Speaker: Manfred Berg (University of Heidelberg)

Black Expatriates and Civil Rights Activism in 1950/60s Ghana
May 26, 2011
Speaker: Kevin Gaines (University of Michigan)

The Night Malcolm X spoke at the Oxford Union, England: Race Protest in the Subversive Special Relationship
June 9, 2011
Speaker: Stephen Tuck (University of Oxford)

In cooperation with the Humanities Council of Washington, DC, the Black German Cultural Society, and the Goethe-Institut, Washington, DC

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To achieve this ambitious goal, Africa Femmes Performante just cooperated with one of important African American Business Network: The Professional Black woman. It is a real opportunity to connect Africa Femmes Performantes’ network from Europe and Africa, with the right mentorships, partnerships, resources, and skills needed to increase our bottom line.

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Rhoda Wilson was born in Lagos, Nigeria to a family steeped in tradition and achievement. Her father was a strict man whose focus for his daughter was education, success and religious obedience. Her father expected high results from Rhoda and wanted nothing less than exceptional goals in all areas of her life.
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One thing that Rhoda will never forgot was her father telling her that women would change the world and that her career was more important than a man’s career, she used this idea to motivate herself throughout her career.
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Rhoda was sent to England at 17 to attend one of the top boarding schools in the country, Hurtwood House, after hermother died when she was 13. Towards the end of her time at college Rhoda wanted to attend an Ivy League university in the USA so she took the SAT. She passed however, her father’s focus had changed; having re-married, so she remained in the UK to complete her university studies.
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Rhoda worked for a number of firms and was at the top of her career in a highly esteemed organization when her position was made redundant. Her confidence took a hit but she had a great circle of friends and was organizing summer balls for charities such as Marie Curie Cancer Care, in memory of her mother who had died from cancer whilst she looked for another job. She eventually found a new role however 11 months into the job, her position was made redundant again.
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Rhoda knew that she had to change direction in her life. It was at this point in her life that she decided to embark on one of her pastimes as a music promoter.. She hosted the first concert at the Shepherds Bush Empire which was a huge success. Rhoda found herself working alone most of the time because she wanted to keep costs down doing everything from technical support to contracts and PR.
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The success of the first concert gave Rhoda a lot of confidence but the next few concerts did not do as well. She was at her lowest but she refused to give up. Uncertain of which road to take or how to get there Rhoda Wilson knew deep down that she wanted to make a difference and this is what kept her going. One day whilst at a meeting with a businessman, regarding the sponsorship of a new concert, he was to give Rhoda valuable advice to see herself as a brand. He told Rhoda that she could make more of a difference on the small screen.
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This meeting motivated Rhoda to explore this idea but she did not account for the huge costs that were attached to broadcasting a show on a non-mainstream channel. Initially she remained positive, however by the end of her first year in developing her programme plan she soon realized that finding sponsorship was almost impossible particularly in the Afro-Caribbean community. She invested what she could in the show and borrowed £675.00 from a friend on making the first production of The Rhoda Wilson Show, which was broadcast on the 4th of December 2005 on OBE TV. She could not afford a director or producer so she learnt everything from the pre-development, to production and post production. She was joyous and thought that that would be the start of something great because she had something to show advertisers and sponsors to believe in the show.
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However by December 2006 things were not looking good for Rhoda. There were no sponsors, no advertisers but she continued to make progress mentally and kept her show on OBE TV going as often as she could. In the meantime, she was putting pen to paper and writing and calling any TV stations, and separately emailing companies for sponsorship. Her confidence took another dip, no work, no sponsors and no advertisers.. One day in 2007 with the help of a former boss Rhoda found work and used the money she earned to invest in her show again.
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Rhoda’s travels to the UAE, Italy and France gave her some time to really evaluate her business, allowing her to formulate a plan of where she wanted to be and how to get there. Rhoda drew a lot of guidance from inspirational books and exercising her faith. She never stopped believing in herself and to remind herself that real success takes years.. She no longer believes that you can do everything yourself regardless of costs. If you want to be successful you need to be able to ask for help and she found a great public relations lady, Ronke Lawal who she feels is the best thing that ever happened to her since her business started. She promotes my show, researches sponsorship avenues and has a group called the Rhoda Wilson Experience on Facebook to keep in touch with her fan base.
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By getting the right help through asking Rhoda Wilson is definitely reaching new heights. People have started to label her the “British Oprah Winfrey”, and though this is flattering Rhoda wants to create her own unique and individual brand. She had a genuine passion for her show and for her production company. The Rhoda Wilson show is now on air on SKY Channel 184 – BEN TV with audience of around 1,300,000. Rhoda is currently working on more series and is now getting interest from other networks who have expressed an interest in commissioning the show. Rhoda was recently contacted by an American Channel who is looking to acquire the contents of The Rhoda Wilson Show. Rhoda is also working on a number of documentaries and short films for festivals around the world. Her women’s Charity ACWAL is also doing well and looking forward to successfully make this continue. Rhoda would like her production company to produce amazing life changing productions, touching people profoundly either by watching the show or working with her. With so much to look forward to in the future Rhoda Wilson is set to achieve great things.
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The Rhoda Wilson Show continues to be an international

digital talk show success.
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Confident, sultry and attractive; words used to describe the popular television presenter Rhoda Wilson. Rhoda Wilson was born in Nigeria and led an eclectic, international upbringing, undertaking her education at the prestigious Hurtwood House Boarding school in Dorking, England. With her solid educational background Rhoda Wilson went on to lead a successful career in the financial and energy sectors. Her experience in some of the world’s most prestigious firms has given Rhoda a strong skill-set with an ability to manage teams and develop successful strategies. With this skill set Rhoda has been able to speak at major events as well as offering mentoring to individuals who aspire to be the best. However her creativity and accomplishments did not stop there. In 2003 Rhoda founded Cosmo Music which successfully showcased World Music across the UK. This clearly illustrates Ms Wilson’s strong business acumen but this wasn’t enough for the ambitious self-made success who wanted to take her passion for the media to the next level.
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The Rhoda Wilson show started in 2005 on OBE TV and has gained critical acclaim across the digital television ever since. Recently moving to BEN TV (Sky Channel 184) the show, aired weekly, currently has a viewership of circa 1,300,000 per show. With a wide mix of subject matter, Rhoda selects her guests with the central theme of Inspiration at the helm. The 30 minute show consists of interviews based on the lives of inspirational and growing talent across the UK.
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A serial networker and social advocate; Rhoda is clear about her goals for this show- “I believe I can make a difference because there is a need in the market and I have incredible passion and I am committed to making this happen.” (Rhoda Wilson). This passion is reflected by her founding the African and Caribbean Women’s Achievement and Leadership Foundation in 2007, another example of the formidable nature of Rhoda’s talents. With 2009 set to be an exciting year in the world of Ms Wilson get ready to see more success from this phenomenal woman on “The Rhoda Wilson Show”.
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For More information
Contact Ronke Lawal
Telephone 07984 141 169
Email: publicrelations@rhodawilson.com

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February is Black History Month in the United States, and although black history is important year round, this month is an especially good time to study the subject. Whether you’re interested in Civil Rights, slavery, African American contributions, or biographies of famous African Americans, you can find so much online. Read on to find 70 links that offer insight and information for Black History Month.

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This year in addition to First Lady Michelle Obama, 2 other black women were in the First Lady’s Box.

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In this 14 minute film, five cancer survivors share from their hearts, providing insights on how they addressed these beliefs, and providing solid reasons for hope. It is an inspirational film designed to promote early detection thorough screening, and also provide hope for those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

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Dena Dodd Perry, the inventor of the Pop.N.Go Rain Scarf, is a business executive, wife and mother of three. Her extensive background in engineering, design and marketing makes her uniquely qualified in launching America’s first stylish rain scarf. With the patent-pending scarf made of custom high performance fabric, her vision is now a reality for so many women who are active and on-the-go leading busy lives.

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Sandra Rafaela – Politician
Netherlands

The African Kingdoms Federation Chief-of-Staff, Sandra Rafaela, was in early 2010 commissioned with and additional portfolio for the Empowerment, Support and Integration of Women of the Diaspora within the EU/Caricom/USA hand in hand with the Women in Africa, within the Federation and African Kingdoms Internal Development Agenda within Africa, and duplication of relevant needed programs within their respective geographic Regions internationally. As such uniting the Women of Africa globally towards an agenda of empowerment and development participation in all aspects of National, Localized and Community development.

Prior to this additional posting, Her Excellency Sandra Rafaela worked for many years in the field of Logistics, alongside setting up successfully in 2006 the Afro European Sisters Network website and blog, and the in 2007 established with a co-partner Women of the African Diaspora website and network, which today has a lot of members of African Women internationally.

Her Excellency is responsible for all matters of Federation interest and is responsible for the expansion of Women Empowerment Programs within Afro European/Caricom and African Continent Rural and Urban region within the Trans-African Nations Development Agenda program. As well as cultural relations with the Federation Kingdoms Nations. Her Excellency as all the Federation Ambassadors and special Commissions is well acquainted with the African Kingdoms and Federation needs, aspirations and desire to further the development of the African Nations, and to strengthen the African Women in localized business and trade between Africa and the respective world regions.

View the entire Black Women in Europe: Power List 2010 with more details.

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This year’s Black Women in Europe™: Power List 2010 were chosen from nominations from the general public and editor Adrianne George and co-editor Mark Derek McCullough based on their achievements and sphere of influence.

“When Michelle Obama was named the most powerful woman in the world this year I noticed that of the 6 other black women on the list none of them lived in Europe”, George explains. “I was inspired to create a list of our own”.

Women on the Black Women in Europe™: Power List include seasoned politicians, accomplished performers, and champion athletes as well as social entrepreneurs and rising stars in the business world.

“This list will serve as a source of inspiration to black women everywhere”, George says. “In all arenas we are known to excel”.

View the complete list: http://bit.ly/bwiepowerlist .

Black Women in Europe™ Blog
Black Women in Europe™ Blog is an award-winning blog founded in 2006 by Adrianne George. It aims to celebrate the lives of the ordinary and extraordinary black women living in Europe. To learn more about the Black Women in Europe™ Blog visit us at: http://blog.blackwomenineurope.com.

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We offer a number of sponsorship packages to fit various needs and budgets. Ask for our extremely attractive Sponsorship Packages.

Becoming a WDLS-EU Sponsor today means not only having attractive advantages but also positioning and strengthening your company’s visibility within the European and international Business and Diversity dialogue. Here are only some of the extraordinary advantages you and your company could profit from:

Making a conscious commitment to Global Diversity and Inclusion today by joining a high profile forum of international diversity thought leadership including CEOs, policy-makers, academia, practitioners and other stakeholders etc:

• Exclusive visibility in Conference Book, Website, Video Walls, Logo on Conference Bags and Lanyards and other printed materials
• Entry passes to WDLS-EU 2011 depending on Sponsorship category
• Exclusive involvement in our PR strategies

WDLS-EU 2011 Advertisement opportunities in the WDLS-EU Networking Journal

Take a look at the WDLS-EU 2010 Networking Journal!
http://www.wdls.eu/wdls-eu-2010/wdls-eu-2010-book/

WDLS-EU 2011 Special Event Sponsorship

WDLS- EU also provides event sponsorship opportunities! Companies can choose from a wide range of WDLS-EU side events ranging from the WDLS-EU lunch, the DVD documentation, the evening receptions and the congress book. Each sponsorship package provides sponsors with exclusive advantages while creating maximum visibility for each of them.

• Lunch
• Evening reception on day 1, 22nd of March
• DVD documentation
• Congress book

WDLS-EU 2011 Registration

Kindly visit our homepage under www.wdls.eu and register under www.wdls.eu/registration2/ in order not to miss out on Europe’s most high-ranking and informative Summit on Business Leadership and Diversity.
Register today and join us on an extraordinary and global Diversity and Inclusion journey!

WDLS-EU 2011 registration fee includes:

• Participation at all conference and breakout sessions from 24-25 March 2011
• Conference materials
• Opening and adjourning receptions
• Cocktail Reception European Diversity Leadership Honours
• Coffee breaks and meals
• Bus Transfers related to conference Agenda

Visit www.wdls.eu for our full agenda, speakers and registration forms.

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Yvette Jarvis: Website, domain name and hosting from Jumbo Servers
Nomusa Madlala: “Knocked Down By Faith” by Adrienne Mynatt
Minna Salami: Uncaged Birds radio interview from Trina Roach

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You can also be a winner. Here is your second chance! Send the answer to the question:
-What does WAD stand for?
to sandra@womenoftheafricandiaspora.com by 4 December 2010 and let her know if you want to win:
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| Books: |
“Secrets of Kept Women” by Shani Greene-Dowdell (US resident)
“Reflections of Light for Daily Living” by Dr. Tiffany Brown (US resident)
1 of 5 copies of “This Far By Faith“, a faith anthology by Arnita Fields (no geographical limitation)
1 of 2 copies of “When Light Breaks Through” by Melanie Carter (no geographical limitation)
“Behind Those Hills” by M.H.A. Menondji (no geographical limitation)
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| Smart phone application: |
Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown (no geographical limitation)
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| Mug: |
“So Blessed” from Good News Distributors (US resident)
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| Food: |
Twee culinaire arrangementen voor twee personen op locatie bij màrshé Breda. De winnaars kunnen kiezen uit de diverse dagschotels from Marshe Breda (the Netherlands)
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| Coaching: |
Een gratis coaching sessie voor een twee (startende) onderneemster bij Màrshé Women Business centre from Marshe Breda (the Netherlands)
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| Hair care: |
72 euro gift package along with an individualized hair plan from Mariposa Imports (anywhere outside North America)
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Be sure you live within our sponsors region so they can deliver your prize, and good luck!

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Our anniversary sponsors have made it possible to reward you for your loyalty delivering the following gifts to you. All of our readers have a chance to win. Where you live will determine your eligibility. Please note geographical delivery restrictions in parenthesis.

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| Books: |
“Secrets of Kept Women” by Shani Greene-Dowdell (US resident)
“Reflections of Light for Daily Living” by Dr. Tiffany Brown (US resident)
“Knocked Down by Life, Lifted Up by Faith” by Adrienne Mynatt with companion CD and t-shirt (no geographical limitation)
1 of 5 copies of “This Far By Faith“, a faith anthology by Arnita Fields (no geographical limitation)
1 of 2 copies of “When Light Breaks Through” by Melanie Carter (no geographical limitation)
“Behind Those Hills” by M.H.A. Menondji (no geographical limitation)

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| Smart phone application: |
Reflections of Light for Daily Living by Dr. Tiffany Brown (no geographical limitation)

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| Mug: |
“So Blessed” from Good News Distributors (US resident)

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| Food: |
Twee culinaire arrangementen voor twee personen op locatie bij màrshé Breda. De winnaars kunnen kiezen uit de diverse dagschotels from Marshe Breda (the Netherlands)

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| Coaching: |
Een gratis coaching sessie voor een twee (startende) onderneemster bij Màrshé Women Business centre from Marshe Breda (the Netherlands)

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| Website, domain name and hosting: |
A basic web site (10 pages), a domain name (for example www.yourname.com), but not country domains e.g .nl or.de.; the general names like .com .net) and web hosting for one year from Jumbo Servers (no geographical limitation)

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| Hair care: |
72 euro gift package along with an individualized hair plan from Mariposa Imports (anywhere outside North America)

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| Radio interview: |
Become a special guest on the Uncaged Birds™ Radio Show! Uncaged Birds™ is a knowledge, confidence, and skill-building personal development radio series created by Trina Roach, especially for women of African descent living and working in Europe. One lucky woman will win an exclusive 60 minute interview in early 2011. Are you a black woman with your own business or product; expat who wants to share your experience living in another country; who is passionate about a cause with special relevance for the black community or black women as a group? You can talk about your personal passion; be it your business or product, your life as an expat or a special cause near and dear to your heart. NOTE: You will need to call into a phone line to conduct the interview from Uncaged Birds™ (must live in Europe).

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To enter to win answer the following question: What does WAD mean? Send your response and indicate which prize you would like to Sandra@womenoftheafricandiaspora.com no later than 27 November 2010. Winners will be chosen in the order in which the replies are received, so don’t delay.

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Send us your contributions, give us your feedback and get inspired.

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Hugs from Rotterdam and Stockholm,
Sandra and Adrianne

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The inaugural Awards ceremony will honor high achieving women of African descent to recognise ten exceptional women in journalism, public relations, recruitment, television, fashion and social development who have transformed their ideas into successful businesses. The Women in Enterprise Award will also honor women who have started a new business or project, grown a new business or managed to trade locally, nationally & internationally

On accepting the Award, Justina said,

“Through out all my work, from the moment I started, I knew I wanted to empower and encourage women to realise we can benefit the world more than being loving, caring mothers and great role models for our daughters, but maybe this is why I started my ventures, to teach my daughters how to care for the world and in turn I am overjoyed to see my message has far outreached its initial audience. I need to thank all those who have given me the time to flourish and the strength and support through out these demanding years, without you and your prayers, my dream would not have become a reality and I would not be here accepting this prestigious Award to celebrate Women in Enterprise Week and International Entrepreneurship Day!”

Read the full story on UK Zambians.

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