Showing posts with label Edition 218. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Edition 218. Show all posts
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Organising Nigerian Students In the Diaspora
Sure, you will remember Dr. Akanimo Odon. That is the young Nigerian who won the British Council’s yearly organised ‘Shine’ International Students Awards in 2006. Odon, the second born son to Mr. Peter Mathias and Mrs. Christiana Odon is back in the country dreaming big “for a new Nigeria”. The 29 year old has also written a book to that effect. He is a first class honours graduate of Zoology from the University of Benin. He has a Master’s of Science in Environmental Rehabilitation from the University of Wales, UK and then a doctorate degree in Environmental Management from the University of Lancaster, UK. He hails from Ikot Udom Village, Ika Local Council of Akwa Ibom State. Married to Ifeyinwa, and with a daughter, Ima-Abasi, the 29 years old Akanimo was at Rutam House office of LIFE magazine recently and spoke to GREGORY AUSTIN NWAKUNOR, about his dreams for a New Nigeria.Your foundation, what is happening to it and why did you start it in the first place?
I Co-Founded an NGO, Xn Foundation in the UK some three years ago. It was co-founded together with a friend called Benedict Okhumale. It is going strong bearing in mind that the team of Directors that run the foundation do so on a voluntary capacity together with their normal full time jobs and one of them is Dr. Ifeolu Akintunde, who is the Executive Secretary of the Foundation. They are all fantastic men.
For the past three years, Xn Foundation has hosted the largest international conference of Nigerian Students in the Diaspora in a conference tagged ICONS (International Conference of Nigerian Students). It has become a high profile event now as UK Universities now bid to host the conference owing to the high recognition and profiling it gives the University that hosts the conference.
The idea sprang up when I realised together with some friends that there was no single umbrella body for the many Nigerian Students in the Diaspora. I got a fantastic team together and we set up things and hosted the first conference. For the past three years, British Council, Nigeria, the Nigerian High Commission, London, different UK Universities, private bodies and firms have been sponsors of the conference and very high profile individuals have been represented there. It is usually a two day conference made of a series of seminars, workshops, discussions, exhibitions from private firms and bodies and it culminates with a dinner and awards night to recognise the achievements of the best Nigerian students in the Diaspora for the year. The overall theme of the conference remains the same yearly and it is networking Nigerian students and Youth in the Diaspora towards national development. Currently, we are planning to host the fourth conference sometime in April, in the UK.
Your interest in youth programmes
My interest in youth programmes is extensive. I love anything that would develop the potential and capacity of the Nigerian youth. I have developed a few projects in the past and there are a few projects I have recently developed but would require some backing to bring them into fruition. I am only one man, so can only do so little at a time. But the kind of youth programmes I develop and that interest me impinges on developing creativity and entrepreneurship in the Nigerian youth. You would agree with me that there is a fundamental enterprise gap in the average Nigerian Youth and even when the passion is there, the enabling power isn’t. I have won a few enterprise awards and have been blessed to be trained in enterprise development in programmes organised by the very best schools in the world i.e. MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, Oxford, etc. And in my opinion, one thing stands out, which I think is lacking in our universities and that is enterprise should be fully integrated into the core of every course or programme especially considering today’s economic climate. If you can get enterprising skills cultivated in the youth of a nation, then the future is bright. Currently, I am planning a book tour for my novel across different Nigerian universities but on the back of the book tour is a project to talk about youth and creativity development, entrepreneurship development, developing educational partnerships and finding research funding with UK Universities and bodies to mention but a few. I have a portfolio of first hand experiences in all of these subject matters and it will be a delight to share this with the Nigerian students. This is planned for the early part of the year 2010.
What motivated your project?
The project is called the Scribes Prize. To be honest, in an era where negativities, frustration and uncertainties about the Nigerian state abound, I felt it of great importance to project the Nigerian image in a positive light in the eyes of the world. The project was designed to project the ideals of the Nigerian state and to promote potentials of Nigerians nationally and internationally through creative writing. The motivation was to promote the art and culture of writing and to provide a platform for healthy competition amongst writers as they aspire to be recognized as award winning ‘Scribes’. I am a writer myself and each time I ask people, I am amazed at how many people do write. But you see; writing is a very hard thing to do especially when you are not doing it as a job or when there is no evidence of getting paid at the end of it. In Nigeria, we are at a time when the culture of reading and writing is gradually been eroded from the mental fabrics of many and emphasis on literary expression, creative appreciation and even logical communication, a thing of the past. That was why I conceived and developed the project to attempt to revamp the trends. It is simple, as the best poems and short Nigerian stories are published into an anthology in the UK and made available to a global audience.
What are your day-to-day responsibilities?
Well, up till few months ago, I was the Local Content Adviser for BG (British gas) Nigeria, and then my day-to-day responsibilities involved developing strategies for their local content implementation portfolio, developing supplier development initiatives and programmes, market differentiation programmes to mention but a few. Now, I do quite a wide variety of things. I consult for a few UK Universities in developing some market entry programmes into the Nigerian market. I do some work for the Director of the Centre for Energy and the Environment, Dr. Lawrence Ezemonye under the Energy Commission in developing some environmental programmes in partnership with several UK environmental bodies and firms. I am also working in partnership with the CEO of Del-York International, Linus Idahosa in developing some very powerful media intervention programmes that would be launched not too long from now. As you may be aware, Linus was responsible for setting up the partnership with the New York Film Academy in running some film courses in Nigeria, which kicks off next year. We are working on ways of taking this to the next level.
On another note, I am working as the principal consultant and partner for a firm, Envirofly Consulting, in the UK and I am involved in developing some new ground breaking programmes that can give any Nigerian corporate firm, state government or body a green image while still proffering solutions to current environmental problems. This is my core competence. I am blessed to have been trained as an environmentalist under one of the most cited professors of environmental science in Europe and my doctorate degree was in one of the most reputable environmental research groups in Europe. These programmes range from waste management portfolios, to energy management and conservation models, to environmental education training programmes, to very simple low cost environmental initiatives that can increase the awareness, provide a good green foundation and project the image of any Nigerian firm in the international community. This is very crucial bearing in mind the constant global discussions on climate change and global warming and the very infant state of the Nigerian environmental industry, if I may say so.
On a much lighter note, when I am not too busy, I write songs for a record label in the UK. I recently just help set up some partnerships with two universities in the UK to shoot the musical videos of two Nigerian artists as a project under the record label. Finally I take care of my family. Quite a variety but I am grateful to God for every opportunity and I love everything I do.
The three interesting facts about yourself
They might not be interesting but they are definitely facts. Well, the first thing is that I worked part time in the UK in a care home for the elderly and for those with mental and physical disabilities for over two years while studying for my doctorate degree. I loved it. Secondly, I have won several international awards including an Enterprise Certificate Award from the Enterprisers Programme organised by Cambridge University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Entrepreneurial Fellowship Award from Stanford University, the British Council International Student of the Year Award in the whole of UK to mention but a few. Thirdly, I have been privileged to work as a consultant to several reputable multinationals and bodies including British Council, Nigeria, European Union Development Fund under the Grow Creative Scheme in the UK, the British Government sponsored by the Department for Innovation, University and Skills, a few Universities in the UK and in Nigeria to mention but a few.
Biggest pastime outside of work
Well, thinking of past time outside of work, that would be watching movies and listening to music. And when I am not listening to music, I do some writing. I have finished writing my second book of poetry titled ‘Poetic Voice of Reason’ which would be published next year.
What do you like best about what you do?
What I love best about what I do is the fact that my creativity breathes without inhibitions. Whether I work as a business development consultant, a project management consultant, a policy development and strategy consultant, it’s about proffering solutions to intricate problems. On the light side, whether I am writing a book, writing a movie script or writing a song, it is bringing to be what wasn’t. I think I am fascinated about creation, the art of starting something new and innovative and developing it into a reality.
Three characteristics that describe you
Well, the three characteristics that describe me would be God-fearing, caring towards others and self-driven to succeed.
Kind of person: introvert or extrovert
I would say that I am right in the middle of the two. I can be an introvert when the need calls for it and yes, I can be outspoken and in your face if I need to be. Not in a rude manner though as I like to think I am very pleasant.
Philosophy of life
Dreaming is cheap and free, spend it ruthlessly. There are two ways to succeed, it is either you work hard or you work hard and God will bless the work of your hands.
Best practical advice you received
When you find a good thing, do all you can to keep and take care of it. My dad told me that long time ago.
What in human history do you wish had never been invented?
Well, that’s a tough one but my first instinct is to say nothing really. I don’t think it’s the invention, I think it is the use of the invention.
If you had been born in a different country and century, which would you have preferred?
Are you kidding me? I would have chosen Nigeria now and exactly when I was born, some 29 years ago. Don’t laugh. I believe in predestination and there wouldn’t have been any better than being born in Nigeria at the time I was. God made it that way. Besides, I do love my country.
What is your fantasy outside your job?
I think I struggle with that to be honest. I think I am currently living my fantasy as I am doing the things I love and enjoy doing even outside my job if that makes sense. You wouldn’t therefore call it a fantasy if it is already happening even if it is at its infant stage, would you?
Your favourite cause and books
Well, anything developmental and change-inclined, of course, change for the better, anything youth development and empowerment oriented, anything that hits at the heart of environmental and economic sustainability tickles my fancy. It drives me. As a motivational speaker, a strategy consultant and a positively minded individual like I would like to think I am, books that are inspirational and deal with strategy development are my kind of books.
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a medical doctor. That didn’t quite work out as you might have noticed. But now I am grateful to God that it didn’t work out that way.
Person most interested in meeting?
Well, outside the shores of this nation, that would be Barack Obama. But back here at home, after hearing about and seeing all the good things he has done in my state, I would love to meet the governor of my state, Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio.
Leader in business most interested in meeting?
Well, I have met the leaders in business I have always wanted to meet and those are the founders of Google.
Mentor?
That would be my dad and mum. They are the most hardworking people I know.
Akinwunmi… 10-Year Old Who Defeated World Mountain Climbers At Idanre
By Niyi Bello The myth of the famous Idanre mountains in Ondo State, as a nearly unconquerable natural heights was shattered two weeks ago when a 10-year old boy, Sunday Akinwunmi, reached the summit of one of the rocks, climbing 2000 feet above ground level. Akinwunmi’s feat was recorded during the the grand finale of the Mare mountain climbing festival, organised by the Ondo State government and a private firm to market the rocks as a preferred destination for tourists around the world.
The most intriguing aspect of the Akinwumi feat, apart from his tender age, was that the boy climbed the mountain with bare hands even when professional mountaineers were using ropes and spikes, making him a perfect case of how, no matter the odds, one can conquer the heights literally and figuratively.
Akinwunmi, an indigent JSS student of Methodist High School , Odode, Idanre, where he is one of the 50 students in the overcrowded class of the public school, now has the world at his feet.
For his bravery, he was awarded a state-sponsored scholarship to university level, a trip abroad next year to prepare him for participation in international mountain-climbing competitions and the opportunity to be part of the re-branding process of Ondo State as the symbol of the resilience and determination of an average Ondo youth.
The little boy with lowly background has now climbed to the heights of popularity in the community and beyond. Everybody in Idanre now knows where he lives as seen last Thursday when The Guardian was on his trail.
But nothing about the frail figure of the young boy revealed the inner strength and determination that pulled him out of the corner of obscurity and poverty to the heights of opportunities.
A typical picture of a boy from very poor background, barefooted and wearing torn clothes, who probably has never had a decent meal, the little Akinwunmi is the fifth child in a family of six children.
At his family residence, a four-room mud-building without the luxury of cement flooring and toilet facilities, where poverty could be seen in its stark reality with rags hung on walls as clothes, his siblings gathered to witness another interview session with one of them who has brought fame to the family.
Mattson… Beauty in the lens
MATTHEW Ibadin (a.k.a. Mattson), a photo artist, has in the last 13 years, displayed a strong mastery of the camera, having used it to produce portraits that put him ahead of others in the industry. He lives out his passion for photography with his peculiar techniques, which earned him the coverage of DeltaAfric in Akwa- Ibom mega city and as well the sole participant photo/art exhibitor at the just concluded Pan African University — Enterprises Development Service (EDS) Yuletide gig. As the Chief Executive Officer, Mattson Creations, he takes time to beautify pictures by enhancing the composition and making them entertaining. He speaks with Chiemerem-Nneka Umenne on his passion and dream. Background/ Education:
I’m from Uromi, Edo State. I had my primary and secondary education at Uromi. I had my first degree in Political Science from University of Lagos. Others are Entrepreneurship certifications from Fate Foundation in 2002; Enterprise Development Service (EDS) — Pan African University, Lagos; Media Enterprises from Pan African University; and Advance Certificate in Photography from London School of Photography, London, to name a few.
From Political Science to photography
During my secondary school days, I’d always wanted to be a photographer. But there was no photography as a course in Nigerian universities, then. So, while studying political science at UNILAG, I was also busy taking photographs on campus. I studied Political Science because I wanted to study human behaviour and actors in the international community. But I had to enroll in photography institutes in United Kingdom, America and Europe to unveil creative ideas in me. Professionally, photography is what I do for a living.
Starting point
I started as a campus photographer in UNILAG from 1996 to 2001. Far back then, I was collecting N150 for two copies, which was also my major source capital for Mattson Creation. The then Vice Chancellor, the late Prof. Jelili Adebisi Omotola, because of me, introduced work-study-programme in the school. I devoted 64 per cent of my time for academics and work; then cultism among students was a common thing. So, the VC said students would not have enough time to engage in negative unions if properly occupied. Though, it was not officially celebrated, he called me one-on-one to congratulate me.
Works for and with the big wings:
I had a one-on-one training in photography in Italy with Mr. Brown and in London with Chris Bell, Managing Director of Photo Opportunity. I majored in Area Photography, Portraiture and events. I just concluded the area photography for DeltaAfric in Akwa-Ibom Mega City site by using helicopter to do the documentations of the land, which is pure area photography. A lot of my works are found in so many Nigerian banks, but I don’t want to name call. Individuals are also my clients. I covered the wedding ceremony of Igbinedion’s daughter. I always want my works to speak for me. The January to April picture covers of Genevieve magazine are taken by Mattson Creations. The inner page column called style attitude are part of my works.
Setting up a photo gallery
Before now we used to have art galleries but at my photo gallery, people buy pictures for almanac and offices among others.
Difference between photo and art gallery
Art gallery is a specialized artwork. Photo gallery is purely on pictorials, but accommodates art works. Besides, I use my photography to communicate messages to people on the streets vice versa. My unique selling point is that I can even transform my pictorials to art piece. My exhibition at Lagos Business School and Terraculture were art piece with abstractism as main theme.
Your portraiture
I use instrument of coercion in portrait creativity for its values. The ability to be creative makes me to be sought for. I have not seen anybody that comes to my studio for portraits that will not look for me. If you allow me into your house for portraits, you would not welcome any other photographer because I will change everything in that house. The way and how I do them talks. That is what I term entertaining photography because it is not all about just telling people to stand and you click the button. It’s far too beyond it!
At EDS exhibition, you had ‘Community watch’ photos, why that?
Yes. The naked boy portraiture tagged “Innocent” is a capture of a boy that is taking his bath at the beach; innocently pouring the water over his head. It depicts that everyone in the world has equal opportunity, in the sense that we come from the same source, behave the same way but end up having different opportunities as we grow older. The picture simply means you or me. That was my best photography in that event going by participants’ decisions. I am currently working on a book that will motivate the study of photography.
The future
I am working on Mattson Photo Club. Members will have periodic photo shots depending on contract agreement with the club, regardless of location. It aims at making photographs the most valuable item in the world. A lot of people crave to have their infant pictures, but they cannot locate them. I hope to have a national portrait gallery. I want Nigeria to keep histories of events pictorially. I want to manage Nigeria’s database through the use of photographs, which is also a re-branding technique. I want foreigners to invest in our country by believing in the pictures we present. I don’t have any other country to go to and as such has package it properly.
Dreams for 2010
To achieve the goals of my projects. To see young people take the lead in photography and for people to see it as a profession they would want to go into.
Industry’s bane
Insufficient enlightenment and disregards for practitioners. A photographer, who even does pre-and-post production is not respected like comedians who talk for few minutes and walk away with huge sums of money. It is not just attending parties and someone snaps and urges you to bring N100 for collection. I respect only two photographers — Don Barber and Mo Barrack in the country; they don’t make noise despite being big boys in the industry. These photographers uphold professional ethics and follow price standards. Non- credit to photographers’ work is a challenge and that is what Don Barber has been preaching against. But if we professionals adhere to core standards, everyone will reap the benefits. I see no reason a picture I shot for N100, 000 for instance, will be used for billboard across the states and a printer who tapped my intellectual property would be paid a million naira. It is not right and that is unethical. In such case, who ever took that shot ought not to be a photographer because there should have been an initial understanding of the usage of the work. That is the reason most photographers cannot even maintain themselves and live in good environment like those in advertising agencies. This is the worst challenge in Africa as a whole.
What is your association doing?
There is no photographers’ association in Nigeria for now. What we have are individuals representing groups. We have the coming together of professional photographers headed by Ojekhere, which has not existed for over 13 years on paper. But we are trying to come up with one.
Cherished work- piece/ tool
“Innocent” because it was impromptu. I was driving along the beach side when I saw a little boy having his bath. I had to park and snap him. My most recent model camera is my favourite tool.
Drawing inspiration:
The late Fela’s songs and my camera.
Message to fellow practitioners:
Lets us come together to have an association. The earlier we do this, the better for all.
Challenges
Power generation is one big challenge.
Kevin… The Big Brother revelation
RECENTLY, Kevin Chuwang Pam, who hails from Jos, the Plateau State capital, walked triumphantly out of the Big Brother House to the deafening shouts that heralded his re-entry into the world he left behind 91 days earlier. He had just been named winner of MNet’s Big Brother Revolution. The 27-year-old entertainer and graduate of English Language from the University of Jos, was chosen by the continent after outlasting 24 other housemates and winning 45 per cent of the total votes cast across the whole of Africa to claim the $200,000 prize.
Voted ‘Most Sociable’ in the university, Kevin’s role model is his father because “he is principled.”
The Jos boy was the most popular housemate in the most countries, claiming 11 country votes from Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the Rest of Africa) against two for Emma (Angola and South Africa), and one apiece for Edward (Namibia) and Mzamo (Malawi), while Nkenna couldn’t claim a victory in any of the participating countries.
The show had kicked off with IK abseiling into the garden before hip-hop group, Fresh performed in front of a packed studio audience. The 20 evicted housemates then joined him on stage in a stunning parade of colour as they waved their national flags. After a review of the first 30 days in the house, the evicted housemates performed a special dance paying homage to Michael Jackson – as they did so successfully during their “Thriller” task.
A Manchester United fan whose hobbies include rapping, Kevin would like travel to Hollywood to see a movie in the making there.
The simple and short with guts guy says he will spend his money on creating an entertainment empire and will share some of it with friends and family who have stood by him.
His favourite food is pounded yam. He also likes chicken and chips, while actors he admires are Jim Carrey and Martin Lawrence.
His good relationship and sterling leadership qualities have earned him a place in the hearts of fellow housemates and viewers across Africa.
Tonia makes a break through in medicine
Certainly, Tonia Osadebe, the last of a family of three children, is the sort of youth that Nigeria needs at this time when a ‘Failed Suicide Bomber’ — one over-pamp-ered Abdul Mutallab — has further dipped the image of the country in the gutter. The 20-year old did not only graduate tops in her class in the Engineering Department of University of Denver, she, along with three others designed a project that will make a quadriplegic patient capable of only neck movement to have control of his immediate environment. The project provides solution to independent control of room devices, access to Internet, phones, communication with nurse station outside being user’s friendly and language independent interface. She tells TOPE TEMPLER OLAIYA, how she came tops in a field dominated by men.How do you feel studying Engineering at Denver?
Yes, it is a man’s world. We were 20 per cent females in the department and because of that, they try to pay special attention to the females; for us to catch up when it is even not necessary because I graduated tops in my class. Females bring a different twist to engineering. There is this stereotype that men are logical while women are emotional. But we are breaking the stereotype. I like to do something different.
What is the design project about?
In hospitals, I don’t know about here, even if you are bedridden, at least you can move your hands. So, you have the remote controls to turn on the lights, or switch channels or call the nurse and things like that. For the quadriplegic patients, they can’t move their arms or legs, but can’t access their environment. The idea behind it is to provide the means at which patients can control their immediate environment. We met patients to find out their experiences and frustrations and we selected someone who had a motorcycle accident and couldn’t move any part of his body.
That is what I mean about females having a different twist to engineering. It was a team of four – three boys with me as leader. We built the software, connected it to a hardware that was connected to all the devices in the room, so the patient had the opportunity to change the light, the channels, chat with the nurses, access internet to keep himself busy, rather than just sitting there the whole time.
The mouse has a knob on its head that would make the user to move the cursor and click to get things done, just like a mini station for him on a computer that has everything he needs to control his environment. This took us about a year to put up. It was good and successful, and everybody was pleased with the project.
The department was very supportive. I could walk into my adviser’s office any day, I have her personal phone number to call her if anything was going wack. They bought everything. You just make a list of what you need and they sign, you buy what you need and they cover all the expenses, there are no hurdles. You can imagine trying to implement something like that here. God knows how long it’s going to take to have them pay you back.
Did you think of the project because you were a triangle student – from class to library and to your room?
Not really, right from high school in Queen’s College, I was in the top 10 in my set. I always take my academics seriously. Expectations had always been high, you come home with your result and they expect nothing but all As except in Igbo and French. I went to Denver and I was determined to keep it high, because at the end of the day, your parents will be proud of you, besides with a very good GP you can be wherever you want. Anybody who knows me will tell you I am the class clown. I make everybody laugh; anytime you come to class and there is someone doing something funny, it’s me. But despite all the noise in the class, I studied independently, so, my mates hate me for that because at the end of the exams, I come out tops, which always make them mad. I mix studies and play well. I am very sociable, I am not a triangle student, and I don’t even like the library and don’t go there.
How would you describe your stay there?
I enjoyed my stay there, but it was a trying time because I went there at a young age of 16. Typically, you start college there when you are 18. I was much younger than everyone else. Engineering is not a female major. It was not difficult to blend in Denver because black population is very small. So, I am one of the three female students and one out of the two blacks in the class. The people are very receptive and almost everybody in the campus knows me as Engineering student. Teachers there are very passionate and encourage students to be independent. Education there is easier than here, where you cram a lot of information and at the end of six months, you just have to pour everything out.
Any down moments?
There were some challenging points because of difference in culture. Going from here to a completely different, I encountered culture shock. I went there not having anybody to run to. I had to make new friends and understand their accent. I cried the first day I got there because it was all different from Nigeria, but with time, I caught up with the changes. At the beginning, I just couldn’t understand, especially with the literature class, because there were some information they expected you to have and this took me some time to catch up. I also had some problems with spellings, as the British spelling can’t be used for an American word.
And the Nigerian community
In Denver, the Nigerian community is not much. The first time I got there, I heard there was a lot of Nigerians there, but it was not until about three months of my living in Denver that I met someone who knew many other Nigerians there. And I asked myself, where have you guys been hiding? That was when I knew that every first Friday of the month there was a Nigerian party in one club. I was so annoyed to learn of that. But in my campus, we are just three. The Nigerian community does not exist because black people are not that much.
What next?
Right now, plans are on to patent the project over there. Already, it’s been (published) in a couple of scientific journals. Technically, it is the property of the school because they provided all the resources, but if I am interested in setting it up here, I have access to that as it is my work. Right now, I just want to be done with school, face my Master’s before thinking of commercializing it. I like the emotional impact it has on people’s life. I remembered the interview we had with a patient and how he shared his experience to make phone calls to his daughter; it was such an emotional one and to be part of all that was a great feeling for me.
The future
My dream is to head an outfit and to manage people. I have the intention to come back home, but I have to get my Master’s out of the way. There is so much to do here. America is great, but it’s not that great, to be honest. I always look forward to coming home. I always cry every time I had to go back there. I eventually want to open an NGO, sometime along the line to help women in engineering field as well as mentor upcoming ones.
Monday, 4 January 2010
The successful entrepreneurs
(Biz tool Kits)
BY BRIDGET OLOTU
THIS is the last of the financial literacy series we started early this year. I hope you have benefitted one or two things from the entire series. Since this column is for SMEs and business owners or self-employed people, I have decided to conclude by looking at the traits of very successful entrepreneurs.
Who is an entrepreneur?
An entrepreneur is a person who utilises the opportunity of instability, turbulence and lack to produce something new or modify an existing opportunity for profit motive. S/he is also someone who pursues opportunities without regard to the resources s/he currently controls. An entrepreneur sees a gap or a need in his or her immediate environment and brings resources together to create a product or service to meet such a need in anticipation of a social or economic reward.
11 traits of very successful entrepreneurs
Successful entrepreneurs manifest a few or all of these characteristics:
Ignorance: Entrepreneurs are ignorant that they can fail. They are ignorant that the economy lacks the supporting framework and infrastructure to undergird their business vision. They are ignorant that PHCN might not give them light to run their businesses. They are ignorant that they might not have enough business when they start eventually to sell their products and/or services. Like Governor Fashola, they are incurable optimists that they can succeed. So they are ignorant of failure.
Courage: Some had quit their jobs, mopped up their life savings and started their businesses on shoestrings with faith that things would work out well in the end. Rather than increase the unemployment statistics, through their courageous efforts, entrepreneurs create jobs and give a future to others. They are bold, courageous and optimistic, and are willing to take controlled risks.
They exhibit great self-confidence and assertiveness: They stick to their dreams until it becomes a reality. They give everything it takes to make sure it works. They spend weeks, months and years building their business model and work hard enough to see to its realisation.
A capacity for hardwork, discipline, diligence, and perfectionism: Entrepreneurs are hardworkers. Story had it that Bill Gates and Paul Allen worked for three days without seeing the sun to meet a deadline for a software product they were to deliver to IBM.
Successful entrepreneurs are also given to perfectionism.
Ambition, persistence, determination, and commitment to a goal: Entrepreneurs are committed to the achievement of their goals. They set milestones for their business and try to meet these milestones.
Leadership ability, decisiveness, efficiency and ability to delegate authority: Successful entrepreneurs possess tremendous leadership ability. They possess vision and foresight. They live the future in their hearts. They spot opportunities before they become evident to the masses. They inspire confidence in their followers and workers.
Team spirit and concern for others: Real entrepreneurs build their businesses around a system, not themselves. They raise a team of inspired people that believe in their vision and that are willing to make the needed sacrifices for the vision.
An ability to solve problems: resourcefulness, inventiveness and organisational aptitude: Successful entrepreneurs are known to solve
problems. They identify a need/problem and come up with solutions for it.
Flexibility and adaptability: Successful entrepreneurs are not rigid about their business pursuits. They are flexible with their plans and strategies, allowing for changes here and there when the need arises.
Honesty, integrity and a commitment to high standards of quality: Successful entrepreneurs are women and men of integrity. They are committed to best standards and product/service quality. They work towards making their words their bond.
Street smarts, intelligence, and a good judgment: Successful entrepreneurs know their business in and out. At a point in the life of Microsoft, Bill Gates resigned from being the CEO to focus on the software architecture of the business, which is the core of their business operations. Those who have marketing skills keep a presence in the market and liaise with their customers from time to time.
While we need more entrepreneurs in Nigeria, I know very much that not everybody may be cut out to be an entrepreneur. But whatever your calling is, you will surely have something to learn from the traits of successful entrepreneurs. I wish you all the best.
Olotu is the CEO/Lead Consultant, DEAIM Innovative Resources Ltd., bridgetolotu@gmail.com
BY REBECCA AKINMOLAYAN
(PANORAMA)
BY REBECCA AKINMOLAYAN
HAPPY New Year, happy new decade. We are entering into the second decade in the millennium. To see many more years in sound health, Mayo Clinic tells us 10 symptoms we must never put aside if and when they occur. The symptoms which seem so insignificant might be pointers to immediate medical attention. Voici:
1. Unexplained weight loss: If your weight drops by about seven kiloos within some months without some effort on your part, it might be that some disorders are interfering with your body’s absorption of nutrients. The malabsorption disorders could arise as a result of liver disease,cancer, hyperthyroidism or depression.
2. Persistent or high fever: Fever occurs when the body is battling a germ invasion. During this period, the temp rises to about 38.9 but when it increases to about 40 or persists more than three days, dont self-medicate, see a doctor. Itcould be a sign of urinary tract infection, tuberculosis or worst still, cancer.
3. Shortness of breath: This one should be attended to without delay. Aside the usual onethat occurs when one is exercising or having a stuffy nose, difficult breathing highlight pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, bronchitis amd other respiratory diseases.
4. Changes in bowel habits: Anything between three times a day to three times week is normal. But having diarrhoea for about a week, bloody or black stools, constipation that lasts for close to three weeks or unexplained urge for bowel movement are signs of microbial infections, bowel disease or colon cancer.
5. Delirium: Apart from psychiatric conditions, low blood sugar, anaemia or even medications taken can spark it off. Other symptoms include: sudden confused thinking, disorientation, sudden loss of concentration or memory and behavioural changes such as aggression at a whim.
6. Sudden severe headache:
When it seems like thunder claps in your head suddenly, or the headcahe is accompanied by fever, rash or seizure, seek prompt medical attention. A new pattern of headache could signal aneurysm, brain tumour or arteritis.
7. Sudden weakness, loss of vision or speech:
This applies to you and the people in your immediate environment. When there is unexplained dizziness, numbness on one side of the body, sudden loss of speech or blurred vision, minutes count. They point to an impending stroke or ministroke.
8. Feeling full after eating little: Heartburn, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), gastric outlet obstruction, oesopheageal cancer and stomach problems could trigger early satiety. It could be accompanied by nausea, bloating, fever or weight change.
9. Hot or swollen joints: Inflamed joints may signal arthritis, gout or joint infection. It requires emergency care.
10. Flashes of light: The sudden sensation of seeing flashing lights may signal retinal detachment. Immediate medical attention will be required to prevent loss of vision.
BY BRIDGET OLOTU
THIS is the last of the financial literacy series we started early this year. I hope you have benefitted one or two things from the entire series. Since this column is for SMEs and business owners or self-employed people, I have decided to conclude by looking at the traits of very successful entrepreneurs.
Who is an entrepreneur?
An entrepreneur is a person who utilises the opportunity of instability, turbulence and lack to produce something new or modify an existing opportunity for profit motive. S/he is also someone who pursues opportunities without regard to the resources s/he currently controls. An entrepreneur sees a gap or a need in his or her immediate environment and brings resources together to create a product or service to meet such a need in anticipation of a social or economic reward.
11 traits of very successful entrepreneurs
Successful entrepreneurs manifest a few or all of these characteristics:
Ignorance: Entrepreneurs are ignorant that they can fail. They are ignorant that the economy lacks the supporting framework and infrastructure to undergird their business vision. They are ignorant that PHCN might not give them light to run their businesses. They are ignorant that they might not have enough business when they start eventually to sell their products and/or services. Like Governor Fashola, they are incurable optimists that they can succeed. So they are ignorant of failure.
Courage: Some had quit their jobs, mopped up their life savings and started their businesses on shoestrings with faith that things would work out well in the end. Rather than increase the unemployment statistics, through their courageous efforts, entrepreneurs create jobs and give a future to others. They are bold, courageous and optimistic, and are willing to take controlled risks.
They exhibit great self-confidence and assertiveness: They stick to their dreams until it becomes a reality. They give everything it takes to make sure it works. They spend weeks, months and years building their business model and work hard enough to see to its realisation.
A capacity for hardwork, discipline, diligence, and perfectionism: Entrepreneurs are hardworkers. Story had it that Bill Gates and Paul Allen worked for three days without seeing the sun to meet a deadline for a software product they were to deliver to IBM.
Successful entrepreneurs are also given to perfectionism.
Ambition, persistence, determination, and commitment to a goal: Entrepreneurs are committed to the achievement of their goals. They set milestones for their business and try to meet these milestones.
Leadership ability, decisiveness, efficiency and ability to delegate authority: Successful entrepreneurs possess tremendous leadership ability. They possess vision and foresight. They live the future in their hearts. They spot opportunities before they become evident to the masses. They inspire confidence in their followers and workers.
Team spirit and concern for others: Real entrepreneurs build their businesses around a system, not themselves. They raise a team of inspired people that believe in their vision and that are willing to make the needed sacrifices for the vision.
An ability to solve problems: resourcefulness, inventiveness and organisational aptitude: Successful entrepreneurs are known to solve
problems. They identify a need/problem and come up with solutions for it. Flexibility and adaptability: Successful entrepreneurs are not rigid about their business pursuits. They are flexible with their plans and strategies, allowing for changes here and there when the need arises.
Honesty, integrity and a commitment to high standards of quality: Successful entrepreneurs are women and men of integrity. They are committed to best standards and product/service quality. They work towards making their words their bond.
Street smarts, intelligence, and a good judgment: Successful entrepreneurs know their business in and out. At a point in the life of Microsoft, Bill Gates resigned from being the CEO to focus on the software architecture of the business, which is the core of their business operations. Those who have marketing skills keep a presence in the market and liaise with their customers from time to time.
While we need more entrepreneurs in Nigeria, I know very much that not everybody may be cut out to be an entrepreneur. But whatever your calling is, you will surely have something to learn from the traits of successful entrepreneurs. I wish you all the best.
Olotu is the CEO/Lead Consultant, DEAIM Innovative Resources Ltd., bridgetolotu@gmail.com
BY REBECCA AKINMOLAYAN
(PANORAMA)
BY REBECCA AKINMOLAYAN
HAPPY New Year, happy new decade. We are entering into the second decade in the millennium. To see many more years in sound health, Mayo Clinic tells us 10 symptoms we must never put aside if and when they occur. The symptoms which seem so insignificant might be pointers to immediate medical attention. Voici:
1. Unexplained weight loss: If your weight drops by about seven kiloos within some months without some effort on your part, it might be that some disorders are interfering with your body’s absorption of nutrients. The malabsorption disorders could arise as a result of liver disease,cancer, hyperthyroidism or depression.
2. Persistent or high fever: Fever occurs when the body is battling a germ invasion. During this period, the temp rises to about 38.9 but when it increases to about 40 or persists more than three days, dont self-medicate, see a doctor. Itcould be a sign of urinary tract infection, tuberculosis or worst still, cancer.
3. Shortness of breath: This one should be attended to without delay. Aside the usual onethat occurs when one is exercising or having a stuffy nose, difficult breathing highlight pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, bronchitis amd other respiratory diseases.
4. Changes in bowel habits: Anything between three times a day to three times week is normal. But having diarrhoea for about a week, bloody or black stools, constipation that lasts for close to three weeks or unexplained urge for bowel movement are signs of microbial infections, bowel disease or colon cancer.
5. Delirium: Apart from psychiatric conditions, low blood sugar, anaemia or even medications taken can spark it off. Other symptoms include: sudden confused thinking, disorientation, sudden loss of concentration or memory and behavioural changes such as aggression at a whim.
6. Sudden severe headache:
When it seems like thunder claps in your head suddenly, or the headcahe is accompanied by fever, rash or seizure, seek prompt medical attention. A new pattern of headache could signal aneurysm, brain tumour or arteritis.
7. Sudden weakness, loss of vision or speech:
This applies to you and the people in your immediate environment. When there is unexplained dizziness, numbness on one side of the body, sudden loss of speech or blurred vision, minutes count. They point to an impending stroke or ministroke.
8. Feeling full after eating little: Heartburn, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), gastric outlet obstruction, oesopheageal cancer and stomach problems could trigger early satiety. It could be accompanied by nausea, bloating, fever or weight change.
9. Hot or swollen joints: Inflamed joints may signal arthritis, gout or joint infection. It requires emergency care.
10. Flashes of light: The sudden sensation of seeing flashing lights may signal retinal detachment. Immediate medical attention will be required to prevent loss of vision.
Different New Year
(Just Life)
BY OMOLIGHO UDENTA
IT’s a New Year and like almost everyone else I guess I’m thinking about things past and hoping for a better future but I wonder how different this year will be, for me, for my family for all.
I know that for Lizzie’s family, it’s going to be really different. I shed a tear for them but I know it’s nothing compared to what they are shedding, what Lizzie’s mother is going through.
You see, on Christmas day, two of Lizzie’s brothers took their two cars out to try and get some fuel. They’d gone from station to station without finding any, when some twenty minutes or so from their place of residence they found a station selling fuel.
After waiting in the queue, in the hot, hot sun for two hours they were finally able to get some fuel. Relieved they made their way home
Eyewitnesses say there had been an accident a few minutes before they arrived on the scene. It seems they didn’t see what was ahead on time.
By the time they did and stepped on their brakes it was too late, especially for the second car, whose driver, Lizzie’s youngest brother crashed into the kerb and was seriously hurt. He died on the way to the hospital. This year will be different for them all no doubt.
We, the other day, whilst queuing for fuel, experienced something much less serious but which I am still trying to understand.
After queuing for almost four hours I guess this bus driver who happened to be directly ahead of us on the queue lost his patience when he got told that he would have to wait a little bit longer so that bike riders i.e. ‘okadas’ could come in.
The bus driver revved his engine and tried to ram his way into the station, he instead only succeeded in sending the man manning the gate a few metres into the air before he landed on the floor!
Upon landing on the floor the man was still for a while, and then he slowly and carefully checked his arms, legs etc.
When he was sure everything was still in good working order he pounced on the driver and flogged him with the chain he’d been using to lock the gate!
The driver for reasons which could not be determined decided to reverse his bus several times therefore hitting the car behind him (which I just so happened to be) in several times!
When he realised he couldn’t get out that way, he zoomed into the petrol station causing everyone in it to scatter about like fowls trying to avoid the big knife of their madam, the cook.
After driving madly about, inside the fuel station, for a while, trying to find a way out without success, he turned the bus around, faced the entrance again and gunned his engine! Needless to say it was my turn to flee like a chicken!
A whole lot of drama followed. At the end of it all the bus driver had to cough up a few thousands for the repairs to the car he’d hit after which he was arrested and taken away to the police station.
His year is also bound to be different but at least he is alive to experience whatever it holds for him.
People continue to die while others hoard, sell and make millions from fuel. We go through all sorts all for a few litres of fuel, in a country blessed with oil. So, the question may well be, how different from other years will this year be?
Will we be better behaved law abiding citizens of this country? Will we still have corrupt, greedy leaders? Will there finally be food, water and electricity for all (or even at least most) this year? Hmm, only time will tell.
Happy New Year.
omoudenta@yahoo.co.uk
This year...
(Strictly for the young)
BY TOSYN BUCKNOR
I DID not want this article to be about ‘him’. There will be enough Sundays in 2010 Godwilling, to speak about someone, who has basically ensured Nigeria gets the attention it does not deserve, and did not need! Sigh!
And I did not want this article to be about philosophy or reflections! Yes, it was a bad year when it came to deaths, and loss, and yes it was a good year when it came to life, and living, and yes we got to the end of the year with each citizen becoming a local government (we rule ourselves, own our water, power our houses....), and it is true, in the end, it is all hours and days and nothing makes one year different from the other.
Philosophy, reflections and ‘him’. That is not what this article is about jo!
Today, we want to make good ol’ resolutions! Promise to stop doing some things, and to start others. Some to do differently, others to do more or less of! Before we start, let us give some pointers for New year resolutions!
A New Year resolution should be realistic. It should be something you can actually keep!
A New Year resolution should be aspirational! It is a vast world of opportunities out there, why not reach for what you can?!
A New Year resolution should be something one can remember easily. Many resolutions are not adhered to because they were forgotten. Like that time I decided to... O yeah, I forgot! So, don’t forget to write your resolutions down, and don’t forget to remember to check the resolutions you want to remember not to forget.
You might be tempted to become a better person in 2010 and that is indeed a laudable thought, but your new year resolution has to be specific!
Get rid of generalisations, HOW do you want to become better exactly?
A New Year resolution should be personal. You might want a lot for Nigeria, or your friend or cousin, but that is a prayer. You do not have power over it, but you have power over yourself.
Speaking of power, your new year resolution should be something you have power over. Wanting to get taller in the New Year? Well...
NOW, having given a few pointers as to how to make a good New Year resolution, I hope you will take the time out this Sunday to quickly make one if you haven’t already! Don’t forget to s.h.a.r.e your resolutions with me if they are not too private! (sharedazzle@yahoo.com).
It might interest you to know that some of the most common resolutions include resolutions to quit smoking (or other bad habit), lose weight, exercise more, spend more time with family, worry less, spend less and save more, eat more, clean out clutter, get fit, and learn something new!
So, where do my resolutions fall? In the spirit of s.h.a.r.ing, here are mine. Do not laugh!
• I resolve to get taller
• I want to grow younger
• And be a better person
• We thaank tha Lord!
tosinornottosin@yahoo.com
BY OMOLIGHO UDENTA
IT’s a New Year and like almost everyone else I guess I’m thinking about things past and hoping for a better future but I wonder how different this year will be, for me, for my family for all.
I know that for Lizzie’s family, it’s going to be really different. I shed a tear for them but I know it’s nothing compared to what they are shedding, what Lizzie’s mother is going through.
You see, on Christmas day, two of Lizzie’s brothers took their two cars out to try and get some fuel. They’d gone from station to station without finding any, when some twenty minutes or so from their place of residence they found a station selling fuel.
After waiting in the queue, in the hot, hot sun for two hours they were finally able to get some fuel. Relieved they made their way home
Eyewitnesses say there had been an accident a few minutes before they arrived on the scene. It seems they didn’t see what was ahead on time.
By the time they did and stepped on their brakes it was too late, especially for the second car, whose driver, Lizzie’s youngest brother crashed into the kerb and was seriously hurt. He died on the way to the hospital. This year will be different for them all no doubt.
We, the other day, whilst queuing for fuel, experienced something much less serious but which I am still trying to understand.
After queuing for almost four hours I guess this bus driver who happened to be directly ahead of us on the queue lost his patience when he got told that he would have to wait a little bit longer so that bike riders i.e. ‘okadas’ could come in.
The bus driver revved his engine and tried to ram his way into the station, he instead only succeeded in sending the man manning the gate a few metres into the air before he landed on the floor!
Upon landing on the floor the man was still for a while, and then he slowly and carefully checked his arms, legs etc.
When he was sure everything was still in good working order he pounced on the driver and flogged him with the chain he’d been using to lock the gate!
The driver for reasons which could not be determined decided to reverse his bus several times therefore hitting the car behind him (which I just so happened to be) in several times!
When he realised he couldn’t get out that way, he zoomed into the petrol station causing everyone in it to scatter about like fowls trying to avoid the big knife of their madam, the cook.
After driving madly about, inside the fuel station, for a while, trying to find a way out without success, he turned the bus around, faced the entrance again and gunned his engine! Needless to say it was my turn to flee like a chicken!
A whole lot of drama followed. At the end of it all the bus driver had to cough up a few thousands for the repairs to the car he’d hit after which he was arrested and taken away to the police station.
His year is also bound to be different but at least he is alive to experience whatever it holds for him.
People continue to die while others hoard, sell and make millions from fuel. We go through all sorts all for a few litres of fuel, in a country blessed with oil. So, the question may well be, how different from other years will this year be?
Will we be better behaved law abiding citizens of this country? Will we still have corrupt, greedy leaders? Will there finally be food, water and electricity for all (or even at least most) this year? Hmm, only time will tell.
Happy New Year.
omoudenta@yahoo.co.uk
This year...
(Strictly for the young)
BY TOSYN BUCKNOR
I DID not want this article to be about ‘him’. There will be enough Sundays in 2010 Godwilling, to speak about someone, who has basically ensured Nigeria gets the attention it does not deserve, and did not need! Sigh!
And I did not want this article to be about philosophy or reflections! Yes, it was a bad year when it came to deaths, and loss, and yes it was a good year when it came to life, and living, and yes we got to the end of the year with each citizen becoming a local government (we rule ourselves, own our water, power our houses....), and it is true, in the end, it is all hours and days and nothing makes one year different from the other.
Philosophy, reflections and ‘him’. That is not what this article is about jo!
Today, we want to make good ol’ resolutions! Promise to stop doing some things, and to start others. Some to do differently, others to do more or less of! Before we start, let us give some pointers for New year resolutions!
A New Year resolution should be realistic. It should be something you can actually keep!
A New Year resolution should be aspirational! It is a vast world of opportunities out there, why not reach for what you can?!
A New Year resolution should be something one can remember easily. Many resolutions are not adhered to because they were forgotten. Like that time I decided to... O yeah, I forgot! So, don’t forget to write your resolutions down, and don’t forget to remember to check the resolutions you want to remember not to forget.
You might be tempted to become a better person in 2010 and that is indeed a laudable thought, but your new year resolution has to be specific!
Get rid of generalisations, HOW do you want to become better exactly?
A New Year resolution should be personal. You might want a lot for Nigeria, or your friend or cousin, but that is a prayer. You do not have power over it, but you have power over yourself.
Speaking of power, your new year resolution should be something you have power over. Wanting to get taller in the New Year? Well...
NOW, having given a few pointers as to how to make a good New Year resolution, I hope you will take the time out this Sunday to quickly make one if you haven’t already! Don’t forget to s.h.a.r.e your resolutions with me if they are not too private! (sharedazzle@yahoo.com).
It might interest you to know that some of the most common resolutions include resolutions to quit smoking (or other bad habit), lose weight, exercise more, spend more time with family, worry less, spend less and save more, eat more, clean out clutter, get fit, and learn something new!
So, where do my resolutions fall? In the spirit of s.h.a.r.ing, here are mine. Do not laugh!
• I resolve to get taller
• I want to grow younger
• And be a better person
• We thaank tha Lord!
tosinornottosin@yahoo.com
Dappa... Attitude is everything
His story might be common, but the lessons he has learnt from them stand him out. His is all about attitude and perspective, and he bursts with wisdom and humility that strikes you. Listening to him is a delight.Tell us a bit about yourself? I am Maple Tamunoinaemi Dappa. I was born on November 11, 1983. I’m from Kalabari area of Rivers State and a graduate of Marine Engineering from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. I personally describe myself as MOLES (Motivated Optimistic Liberal Enthusiastic and Simple). I am a core change agent, who believes that we can have a better Nigeria if we become better Nigerians. I have the passion to build families, relationships, institutions, businesses and society (FRIBS). I am a very open-minded person, who is ever willing to share what he knows and also to learn from others. I can be hilarious too if you get closer.
How was growing up for you?
Growing up for me was like living in two worlds... First world: deep inside of me, I longed for the good things of life, which other kids were enjoying, but I refused to submit myself mentally to poverty and the slums where I once lived and so, I tried to always to maintain a positive perspective. I drank garri like it was salad instead of drinking it and nagging/complaining. When I come across some money, I give myself a treat just to be free from the fetters/manacles of poverty. Second world: this was the real world I faced. The realities of hunger and knowing that garri no be salad. The realities of homelessness for over one full year, slums/waterfronts, being exposed to some dangerous habits, believing that I was not poor and yet poverty was staring me in the face... many things to say, my brother!
But the interesting thing today is that the positive attitude, which I tried portraying in the first world, is now fast replacing the bitter realities. That is why I usually tell people that attitude is life.
What would you say was responsible for your positive attitude towards life?
Quite a number of things were responsible. First of all, my mum never used to complain about life. She took whatever she could get out of life graciously. If someone gave her a cup of rice, she was very grateful. She created the impression that life would get better and I keyed into it even as a child. When she could afford it, she prepared special meals such as coconut rice -- just to make us feel good. I realised that the worst thing about poverty is surrendering to it and so, I refused to surrender. Secondly, I usually compared myself to someone in a worse situation than I am and then, I have no option than to thank God for my own situation. I used to have tiny legs while growing up and it made me feel bad because other kids like teasing me about it, but I stopped worrying about my tiny legs when I saw a man crawling on his hands and knees. I realised how grateful the man will be to have my tiny legs so he can walk. Lastly, I am an early reader and I was reading positive things, which in turn made me to always think positively.
Temptations to take the short cut?
Temptations are everywhere; even those that are already wealthy are still being tempted to do evil in order to get more. A lot of opportunities came around, but when I figure out that they weren’t positive, I opted out. I did this because I have always wanted to become a man of Impact in the society and going into any evil wasn’t good for the future I had been envisaging. I had role models such as Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, Abraham Lincoln and a lot more. I have vowed to pattern my life in the likes of these great people. I vowed to die hungry than to survive through evil and that is why I would rather be a hungry free man than to be a well-fed slave (to evil deeds).
Was there anyone to mentor or motivate you while growing up?
To be honest, I lived a very free life. I was at liberty to make my choices. My mum, grandma and other older relatives will always tell me what is wrong and what is right. It was up to me to decide what I want. They made me realise that the decisions you make today are the realities of tomorrow. Life was and is still my mentor. You can make it a positive mentor by taking lessons out of your experiences and ordeals or a negative mentor by surrendering to your unpleasant circumstances and giving in to despair, pain, depression, destructive habits, etc. I chose to make it a positive mentor.
How did you survive in the university?
My mum was supporting me with the little she could and in my 200 level, I got a scholarship of N50,000 per session, which was not being paid as at when due. I usually bought the books of lecturers that seemed compulsory and I photocopied other materials. Due to the lack I experienced, the family issues, and then the little distractions I allowed into myself in school, my grades suffered a lot, but you know in our school system, we strive to excel amidst difficulties. I was able to hold the line and I finally graduated with a second class lower due to an academic challenge I had and not my ordeals.
Delinquent youths that are victims of broken marriages blame their behaviour on their parents. What do you think?
People have different experiences, while some could be the fault of parents, others could be fate. I would dodge answering whether it is right or wrong. What I would say is that, as much as we are not the cause of our ordeals, we are fully responsible for what we make out of our ordeals. Our parents have lived their lives; we have ours still ahead of us. We have to correct the wrong of the past. We have to make our lives count by saving our children from experiencing what we experienced.
Aside from writing, what do you do for now and your plans for the future?
I have a one-year old consulting and training firm on Human Capital Development, Publishing, Ideas, Business support, and branding. I also administer a self-help school called The Maple Institute, where we seek to bridge the gap between what people learn in school and what they face in real life. I am also an inspirational speaker and a personal development trainer. I mentor young people who are still in school, graduates, and even young workers. I am currently working on a book that will transform lives and also re-position Nigeria for her Greatness. My future is all about inspiring people to greatness whether in their family lives, relationships, institutions, businesses, and even the society at large (FRIBS). You will hear about how I achieve this as years go by.
If you had to live your life over again, would you wish it differently?
No. There is no perfect life on earth. The tears some people cry on the outside, others cry it on the inside.
thefuturenigeria@yahoo.com
2010...the hairs
2010 hairstyle trends will feature a lot of new looks: there are the new hair trend heavily influenced by the recent Spring 2010 catwalks, and there are the re-workings and evolutions of last year’s hair trends. Below are Fashionising.com’s top picks for hair styles in 2010, with seasonal styles alongside looks for hair from short to long. For more on hair cut trends keep reading.
Plaited and braided hair; The popularity of milkmaid braids in 2009 evolves into the braided hairstyle trend in 2010. While it’s natural for hair trends to evolve between the years, the resurgence of plaited / braided hair is mostly as a result of the hairstyle heavily featuring on the Spring 2010 catwalks.
Long waved hair inspired by the 1940s: Having appeared on the radar in 2009, 1940s hairstyles will continue as an inspiration for women’s hairstyles in 2010. As it was last year this hair trend is again inspired by the late 40s and, to a lesser degree, the early 1950s.
Long hair inspired by the 1970s: There are two 20th century fashion revivals happening in 2010. The 1940s revival gives us the 1940s hairstyle, while the 1970s influence upon 2010 gives us two distinct hairstyle trends.
1970’s inspired flowing texture: Different from the waved hairstyle inspired by the 1940s, this flowing, textured, (and sometimes) waved hairstyle trend in 2010 relies instead on natural-looking waves that border on bed hair. Suitable with both a centre part and an off-centre part. As with straight and naturally styled long hair, flowing waves also work well when very long.
Slicked / Gelled Hairstyles: If there’s a 2010 hairstyle that screams attitude in 2010 it’s slicked hair. Perfect for the younger set, there are three slicked hairstyles to try out in 2010.
The Slicked Back: Slicked back with gel, with fingers or a wide toothed comb providing the texture, 2010’s slicked back hairstyle mixes hair slicked back across the top of the head with textured length. Though we’ve seen a dry, heavily brushed texturing for the length, avoid it and stick to a wet look as seen on Alexander Wang and Thakoon’s Spring 2010 catwalks.
The Slicked Side: The perfect alternative to 2009’s half-shaved head hairstyle, the side slick is the strongest of the three slicked hairstyle trends for 2010. All attitude, it marries an overall wet and tousled look with a side part.
The top knot: Popular on the street in 2009, the top knot conveys a young and playful look. In 2010 topknots are best in two forms: the sleek and the messy top knot.
Short black hair cut: Not so much a hair colour trend as it is a pairing of black hair with a short hair cut, the short black haircut is one of the 2010 haircut trends that is somewhat universal. Able to be styled in looks from classic to neo-rocker and its ability to be cut in a plethora of different ways (with or without a fringe, as a bob or near-on pixie crop short) the short black haircut for 2010 will work most face shapes and skin colour.
Pixie crop with longer fringe: Hair trends of late have moved in three year cycles, and we expect that it’ll be no different for the pixie crop. 2010 should be the hair trends last ‘hoorah’, and we expect it to be firmly out by mid-2010. But do note, we’ve chosen the word ‘expect’ very carefully. Perhaps we’re being over-cautious and are hedging our bets, but let us explain with three good reasons why. There’s always a demand for short hair cuts for women. While the short black is an option for 2010, it does have to go hand in hand with some dark hair dye (a fact that’ll dissuade most)
There are a lot of people out there with pixie crops. Abandoning it simply isn’t a choice with extensions usually ghastly to maintain.
Shaved side hair cut/undercut: A brief note on the half-head shaved hair cut that we witnessed in 2009: it should remain in 2009. Not that there isn’t an alternative. Nor do we no doubt that some people will be wearing it into 2010, but they’ll be doing so long after the hair cut has reached commonality. Having been popularised in 2008, and since interpreted by everyone from Alice Dellal to Rihanna, the haircuts evolution is long overdue.
Rihanna’s evolution of the half-head shaved haircut: an undercut come fauxhawk
If it has previously been a hair cut you’ve had, or been tempted to have, there are two clear options for you in 2010:
Shave or cut your hair to have a full undercut, as we saw on Rihanna in the latter part of 2009.
The manly... 2010
MOST men often felt challenged about matching their socks with their trousers . Here are six important men’s fashion rules to live by which should at least clear up some confusion about a few things.• Always match your belt with your shoes. This is a good rule to follow and it keeps things simple. It’s best to stay with traditional colors such as black, dark brown or a rich tan. Other colors will be difficult to match, and generally speaking, should be avoided. If you wear sneakers every day that probably means you are wearing jeans, try a belt made of fabric or something equally as casual, but please avoid dress belts with jeans and sneakers. Never wears a belt and suspenders together, it’s one or the other.
• Matching Ties and Shirts. For while the solid-coloured shirt with a tie of the same (or slightly-off) colour was seen everywhere. This is now a somewhat dated look. Try mixing things up a little and experiment with colours. Ties are great ways to express yourself, but keeping it tasteful is your best bet. You can’t go wrong with diagonal stripes, modern polka-dots, plaids and subtle patterns. Just make sure your tie compliments your shirt, suit, sweater or whatever you will be wearing it with. Novelty ties are best avoided since the novelty is shortlived.
Ties should be tied in whatever style that most strikes your fancy. Know that there are many different ways to knot your tie, and different knots say different things. I prefer the Windsor or the four-in-hand, but I do suggest that you explore a little just for kicks. As for clip on ties— just say no.
• Pleats vs. Flat-Front. Why so many men have avoided flat-front trousers has always been a mystery to me. Flat-front trousers look better than pleated pants most of the time. Pleats make you look less slim. I have heard guys wear pleats because it’s more comfortable or because flat-fronts are more for athletic bodies. Truth is most men can wear a flat-front trouser. If you want more room then buy them a little big and have them brought in at the waist. This can be done at the store where you buy your clothes or by an independent tailor. And lastly, flat-font trousers are much more fashionable.
• Socks. The more official rule on socks is that they should match the color of your pants, though preferably not the exact same shade unless, of course, you are wearing black in which case it’s okay. However, I personally like to wear socks with patterns, such as stripes in various colors. But I do try to match my socks with my pants and shoes. To quote Glenn O’Brien from GQ magazine, “. . .you will ultimately realize that beyond the valley of rules rises the mountain of aesthetics, the peak of which (if there is one) is always shrouded in beautiful clouds of various hues, many of them resembling certain of my more unusually hued socks.”
Although it should be obvious, white socks should be reserved for the gym.
• Watches are the single most important accessory a man can own. I really suggest investing in one good watch that suits your lifestyle and taste. However, if you are someone who likes to own more than one watch, wear the appropriate timepiece for your outfit: black band with black shoes and belt; brown band with brown shoes and belt; and silver band for either.
• Eyeglasses are one of the few ways you can really express yourself. I have worn glasses for many years and I love having a few pair in different styles. They don’t have to just serve a function, but can enhance your overall look. Do your best to find a pair of glasses that not only compliments the shape of your face, but also expresses your personality. Ask people who wear glasses for a place where you can get good advice about what shape and style looks best for your face shape and features.
courtesy of Daniel Billett, www.about.com
Mutallab raises question over student visas
By Martin Ev
UMAR Farouk Abdul Mutallab, who comes from a wealthy family in Nigeria, was already showing signs of extremist views when he was granted a visa to study mechanical engineering at University College London in 2005.
After completing his studies in 2008, he traveled to the Middle East before applying to return to the UK in May for another six-month course. However, officials from the UK Borders Agency refused his request as he was attempting to enroll on a course being offered by an institution on the government’s list of bogus colleges.
Despite the fact his entry was barred, questions still remain over the system, which has seen more than one and a half million visas granted to overseas students in the last eight years.
Last year, a report by the Home Affairs Select Committee criticised the government for failing to deal adequately with the explosion in bogus colleges springing up across the UK. Keith Vaz, chairman of the committee said: “The government must restrict the term college to prevent any premises above a fish and chip shop from being able to claim it is a reputed educational institution.”
It is feared tens of thousands of foreign nationals have gained entry to Britain illegally under the scheme, with many avoiding detection and never leaving.
In March, tighter restrictions were introduced cutting the number of institutions allowed to recruit students from outside the UK. But critics believe the new points based register has done little to close the system’s gaping loopholes.
Around 3,000 educational institutions across the UK have been granted licenses under the points based system but there are only 62 officials employed to vet the colleges and their 13,500 employees.
There is also widespread concern that many legitimate universities and colleges are providing fertile recruiting grounds for radical Islamic preachers and banned groups. Radicalisation among students has been a problem since the 1990s, with many of those involved in terror plots being highly educated graduates.
A recent study by the Centre for Social Cohesion found that a third of Muslim university students believed killing in the name of religion could be justified. The disturbing findings of the survey also found a large proportion were in favour of the introduction of Sharia law in the UK.
Fund is delaying solar expansion, says UI VC
By Kayode Bello
INADEQUATE fund is the cause of delay in expansion of the solar energy electrification to other areas in the University of Ibadan. According to the Vice Chancellor of the premier institution, Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, the university was still challenged in providing adequate power due to the paucity of funds, for now, only the Oduduwa area, university gate, and parts of the central administration are on solar electrification.
Speaking recently with Life Campus in Ibadan, the professor of Mechanical Engineering said the solar energy electrification was a test case. He stressed that it was a journey towards reducing the university’s dependence on consumption of the conventional energy source, which has been from generator and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
“The systems would be improved on over time. Even if we want to cover the entire campus, it would be a bad idea to start at once. Almost every year, the unit cost of solar panel goes down. What we have done is to put the whole of Oduduwa area on solar. We are also doing system study to see how the equipment is performing, and if it makes economic sense,” Bamiro said.
He assured that the project has worked brilliantly, noting that all the streetlights were on solar energy. “I can confidently say we can go to the next phase. We only used the Onosode fund as a test case.”
Several projects worth $1,000,000 were executed in the university by Zain Nigeria, a mobile operator. Already commissioned are the Solar Energy Centre, renovation of Mellanby Hall, construction of a basketball court in the hall of residence, construction of car parks, as well as conveniences and offices.
But the students are eagerly awaiting expansion and extension of the Solar Energy Electrification to other areas of the university, especially the halls of residence.
2nd African Universities Debating Championships ends in Botswana
THE second Pan-African Universities Debating Championships (PAUDC) was held at the University of Botswana from December 12 to 18. It had 414 participants from nine countries, including Nigeria.
The championship, held in the British Parliamentary format, had universities and high schools locked in horns, with Rhodes University emerging as the university champion, defeating University of Botswana, University of Namibia and University of Free State.
Clive Eley, from Rhodes University emerged as the Best Speaker, while Kgosi Daniel Moremong, from Multimedia University and Lusanda Mtshotshisa from University of Fort Hare were announced as Best Adjudicator and Best New Adjudicator respectively.
Some of the motions that were debated include topics on child labour, AIDS, globalization, good governance, international relations, social rights and the environment. The topics were; is child labour justified in developing countries; should all faith based NGOs be forced to distribute condoms; African presidents should be subject to term limits; Iran’s right to develop nuclear weapons; doctors who refuse to perform abortions on moral grounds should be fired; ban banks from using pension funds as collateral for loans; multinational corporations operating in the developing world should be held liable to environmental regulation based on their country of origin; decision to award Barack Hussein Obama the Nobel Peace prize; among others.
At the climax of the event, delegates met to pass a constitution and elect an executive committee, granted hosting rights for PAUDC 2010 to the University of Namibia, while it reviewed bids for PAUDC 2011 from Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
The top 10 world ranking of institutions in debating championship are Sydney, Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Monash, Queensland, Toronto, Ateneo, Nanyang and Hong Kong.
Call for nominations for young and campus journalists’ award
NOMINATIONS have been invited for the 4th Nigeria Young Journalists Awards 2009 from media organisations and individuals. The award, initiated by Media Career Services, a training and consultancy outfit, is to recognise and encourage young journalists in the country.
A judging board made up of top media professionals will choose winners of the awards, who will get career enhancing prizes. Past winners of the award include Adesina Oyetayo (2005), Segun Adeoye (2007) and Bilewomo Ademilola (2008) of Tell Magazine, who all got the first prize of a laptop computer.
Awards categories for 2009 are: Young Journalist of the Year 2009; Student Journalist of the year; and Mass Communication department training Journal of the Year 2009.
Interested journalists for the first category should have a maximum of three years journalism experience and must not be older than 30 by December 2009. They must have demonstrated high commitment to their work and distinguished themselves among contemporaries.
In addition, they must submit three of their published or broadcast work between January and December 2009. Such entries must be supported with a nomination letter from the journalist’s editor or supervisor and curriculum vitae with other relevant supporting documents.
For the second category, entrants must be a student of a tertiary institution with active participation in campus journalism. He or she must have at least three published or broadcast work in campus or other medium focusing on campus issues between January and December 2009, including a nomination letter by relevant authorities, curriculum vitae and other documents.
For the last category, submitted training newspaper/magazines of Mass Communication departments will be assessed on the basis of content and production quality. A nomination letter by Editorial Advisers will be required
Completed entries should be sent to: The Programme Coordinator, Young Journalist Awards 2009, Media Career Services, International Press Centre, 11, Dideolu Court, Ogba, P.0. Box 15399, Ikeja, Lagos, or through email to mediacareernig@yahoo.com. All entries must be received on or before January 15,
UMAR Farouk Abdul Mutallab, who comes from a wealthy family in Nigeria, was already showing signs of extremist views when he was granted a visa to study mechanical engineering at University College London in 2005.
After completing his studies in 2008, he traveled to the Middle East before applying to return to the UK in May for another six-month course. However, officials from the UK Borders Agency refused his request as he was attempting to enroll on a course being offered by an institution on the government’s list of bogus colleges.
Despite the fact his entry was barred, questions still remain over the system, which has seen more than one and a half million visas granted to overseas students in the last eight years.
Last year, a report by the Home Affairs Select Committee criticised the government for failing to deal adequately with the explosion in bogus colleges springing up across the UK. Keith Vaz, chairman of the committee said: “The government must restrict the term college to prevent any premises above a fish and chip shop from being able to claim it is a reputed educational institution.”
It is feared tens of thousands of foreign nationals have gained entry to Britain illegally under the scheme, with many avoiding detection and never leaving.
In March, tighter restrictions were introduced cutting the number of institutions allowed to recruit students from outside the UK. But critics believe the new points based register has done little to close the system’s gaping loopholes.
Around 3,000 educational institutions across the UK have been granted licenses under the points based system but there are only 62 officials employed to vet the colleges and their 13,500 employees.
There is also widespread concern that many legitimate universities and colleges are providing fertile recruiting grounds for radical Islamic preachers and banned groups. Radicalisation among students has been a problem since the 1990s, with many of those involved in terror plots being highly educated graduates.
A recent study by the Centre for Social Cohesion found that a third of Muslim university students believed killing in the name of religion could be justified. The disturbing findings of the survey also found a large proportion were in favour of the introduction of Sharia law in the UK.
Fund is delaying solar expansion, says UI VC
By Kayode Bello
INADEQUATE fund is the cause of delay in expansion of the solar energy electrification to other areas in the University of Ibadan. According to the Vice Chancellor of the premier institution, Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, the university was still challenged in providing adequate power due to the paucity of funds, for now, only the Oduduwa area, university gate, and parts of the central administration are on solar electrification.
Speaking recently with Life Campus in Ibadan, the professor of Mechanical Engineering said the solar energy electrification was a test case. He stressed that it was a journey towards reducing the university’s dependence on consumption of the conventional energy source, which has been from generator and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
“The systems would be improved on over time. Even if we want to cover the entire campus, it would be a bad idea to start at once. Almost every year, the unit cost of solar panel goes down. What we have done is to put the whole of Oduduwa area on solar. We are also doing system study to see how the equipment is performing, and if it makes economic sense,” Bamiro said.
He assured that the project has worked brilliantly, noting that all the streetlights were on solar energy. “I can confidently say we can go to the next phase. We only used the Onosode fund as a test case.”
Several projects worth $1,000,000 were executed in the university by Zain Nigeria, a mobile operator. Already commissioned are the Solar Energy Centre, renovation of Mellanby Hall, construction of a basketball court in the hall of residence, construction of car parks, as well as conveniences and offices.
But the students are eagerly awaiting expansion and extension of the Solar Energy Electrification to other areas of the university, especially the halls of residence.
2nd African Universities Debating Championships ends in Botswana
THE second Pan-African Universities Debating Championships (PAUDC) was held at the University of Botswana from December 12 to 18. It had 414 participants from nine countries, including Nigeria.
The championship, held in the British Parliamentary format, had universities and high schools locked in horns, with Rhodes University emerging as the university champion, defeating University of Botswana, University of Namibia and University of Free State.
Clive Eley, from Rhodes University emerged as the Best Speaker, while Kgosi Daniel Moremong, from Multimedia University and Lusanda Mtshotshisa from University of Fort Hare were announced as Best Adjudicator and Best New Adjudicator respectively.
Some of the motions that were debated include topics on child labour, AIDS, globalization, good governance, international relations, social rights and the environment. The topics were; is child labour justified in developing countries; should all faith based NGOs be forced to distribute condoms; African presidents should be subject to term limits; Iran’s right to develop nuclear weapons; doctors who refuse to perform abortions on moral grounds should be fired; ban banks from using pension funds as collateral for loans; multinational corporations operating in the developing world should be held liable to environmental regulation based on their country of origin; decision to award Barack Hussein Obama the Nobel Peace prize; among others.
At the climax of the event, delegates met to pass a constitution and elect an executive committee, granted hosting rights for PAUDC 2010 to the University of Namibia, while it reviewed bids for PAUDC 2011 from Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
The top 10 world ranking of institutions in debating championship are Sydney, Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Monash, Queensland, Toronto, Ateneo, Nanyang and Hong Kong.
Call for nominations for young and campus journalists’ award
NOMINATIONS have been invited for the 4th Nigeria Young Journalists Awards 2009 from media organisations and individuals. The award, initiated by Media Career Services, a training and consultancy outfit, is to recognise and encourage young journalists in the country.
A judging board made up of top media professionals will choose winners of the awards, who will get career enhancing prizes. Past winners of the award include Adesina Oyetayo (2005), Segun Adeoye (2007) and Bilewomo Ademilola (2008) of Tell Magazine, who all got the first prize of a laptop computer.
Awards categories for 2009 are: Young Journalist of the Year 2009; Student Journalist of the year; and Mass Communication department training Journal of the Year 2009.
Interested journalists for the first category should have a maximum of three years journalism experience and must not be older than 30 by December 2009. They must have demonstrated high commitment to their work and distinguished themselves among contemporaries.
In addition, they must submit three of their published or broadcast work between January and December 2009. Such entries must be supported with a nomination letter from the journalist’s editor or supervisor and curriculum vitae with other relevant supporting documents.
For the second category, entrants must be a student of a tertiary institution with active participation in campus journalism. He or she must have at least three published or broadcast work in campus or other medium focusing on campus issues between January and December 2009, including a nomination letter by relevant authorities, curriculum vitae and other documents.
For the last category, submitted training newspaper/magazines of Mass Communication departments will be assessed on the basis of content and production quality. A nomination letter by Editorial Advisers will be required
Completed entries should be sent to: The Programme Coordinator, Young Journalist Awards 2009, Media Career Services, International Press Centre, 11, Dideolu Court, Ogba, P.0. Box 15399, Ikeja, Lagos, or through email to mediacareernig@yahoo.com. All entries must be received on or before January 15,
From vineyard, enters Ajobiewe
BY TAJUDEEN SOWOLELIKE the birth of a child, painter Samuel Amurawaiye Ajobiewe recently unveiled himself through his debut solo art exhibition.
Significantly, the show held at Mydrim Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos, was titled Ajobiewe, the artist’s name.
Ajobiewe is a straitjacket painter who captures familiar situations, thus making his works to be rated among those artists whose works spring little or no surprise.
His non-visible brush movement skills may not be uncommon, but there is something about the dimension that raises curiosity for a solo debut. The skills must have been accumulated unconsciously for decades.
He recalls: “My journey into art started at a tender age, in my primary school when almost every book a child lays his hands on becomes a drawing book.”
Rewards and encouragement started coming so soon for the then young artist-to-be. At primary five in St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School, Ogori, Kogi State, a trainee teacher, he explains, noticed his skill and asked him “to draw various objects for use as teaching resources” for the school. But it was the art patron,Otunba Yemisi Shyllon, whom Ajobioewe says, “motivated him to get a formal education in art.”
HE continued proving his worth at the higher academic level, winning several laurels. “I emerged the Best Graduating National Diploma (ND) student, School Of Arts, Design and Printing (SADP) in 2000 at Yaba College of Technology, (Yabatech), Yaba, Lagos; Best Graduating student, Higher National Diploma, (HND), SADP, 2004, Yabatech; and the Professor Yusuf Grillo Award, 2000”
But he has moved on from that rudiment stage of his career, passing through some “mentors”, whose contributions, he admits, “have impacted his life.” These experiences garnered from senior artists of diverse backgrounds, forms and schools, apparently shaped his skill, which perhaps climaxed at the show. For examples, “Abioudun Olaku tutored me at a time he was moving from figure paintings to land and seascapes and night scenes; Segun Adejumo, positively, influenced my water colour painting skills.” From group scenes such as Imoran Lagba, Baba Alayeye, seascape, and Window to the World – rendered in pastels – to oil such as Under A Watchful Eye, Aso L’e Wa, Ewa Ni Wa, Commerce and 3 to Tango, 3 To Dance, there is a faint line of preference drawn between his skill in pastel and oil.
WITH a two-man show, Waves of Live at Gold and Green Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos, in 1995, he had his first outing. He also took part in The Gods of Our Time, a group show of final year students of Yabatech in 2002 at Didi Museum, Victoria Island Lagos. He had another opportunity at a similar show, entitled
New Names, a gathering of 2004 final year students of the same school at Goethe Institut, Lagos.
Nine group shows down the line, including Hellenic Images Greece National Day, 2007, Lagos; Times and Feelings, Mydrim Gallery, 2006; Colours, Moods and Feelings at Truview Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos, 2005; Ajobiewe’s debut solo show was an outing hard earned
In the dynamic art scene of the 21st century, Ajobiewe appears a strong contender to watch out for.
Salute to Rollins, Coleman… Surviving jazz elders
BY BENSON IDONIJEFOR over six decades, since the advent of modern jazz in 1942, the younger players of that genre have introduced nothing. This is despite the solid foundation laid by Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and the interventionist efforts of such innovators as Ornette Coleman, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Eric Dolphy, and Miles Davis. This is not to mention the efforts of Wynton Marsalis, the Miles Davis-influenced trumpeter who was born in 1961, but began to contribute to the development of jazz in the 1990s.
Residing in New York City where he serves as the artistic director of the acclaimed ‘Jazz-at-the-Lincoln’ Centre programme, Marsalis helped to bring about resurgence in the popularity of jazz in the ’90s. He has mentored such young players as trumpeters, Nicholas Payton, Wallace Roney, Roy Hargove and Terence Blanchard among others. Marsalis has nurtured the likes of Eric Reed, Steve Turre, Nicholas Payton and bassist, Christian Mc Bride among the many musicians that have benefited from the workshop sessions at the Lincoln Centre.
But the truth is that these young adherents are still following on the heels of the elders, playing the same notes, progressions and phrases. They are still propelled by the same artistic motivations.
One big irony that continues to characterise the attitude of these young players is that even though their influences are the elder musicians, they never give credit to them. But, why would they, when the co-founder of ‘Jazz at Lincoln’ and its artistic director himself, who is responsible for preparing them for their careers, has always refused to acknowledge his mentors and influences?
In an interview he granted some writers a few years ago, Marsalis was asked to name the people who had had the most influence in his life, and why? His reply: “Both my parents; first, just my father — just to have an opportunity to be around a musician of that calibre, that type of man, with a lot of integrity and not really pretentious at all; someone who really loves music and believes in it and whose belief in music is not predicated on his position in it because he was always struggling just to make ends meet to feed that big family he had.
“But he didn’t get jaded because he still had belief in the music. So he would say, ‘Well, I might not be making money, but this music is great.’ And my mother — just the type of investment in time she puts into going to music lessons and taking us to concerts and stuff that she didn’t really want to do.
“Then all the many teachers I had. I had so many trumpet teachers. And then all the musicians that I knew when I was growing up; they were kind of, like my uncles, even though they maybe didn’t know the type of impact they had on me, just to be always around them.
“And then musicians like Art Blakey. He had a tremendous impact on me. The opportunity to work and understand what it means to go to work every night and play and not joke around, like, be serious about swinging and playing with a vibe at all times, playing with a certain intensity and feeling.
“And musicians like Clark Terry; I would meet them when I was in high school. And he sent me a postcard once. Just musicians who keep you inspired, you know, so many people. I could just go on and on… There are so many musicians. I know so many people I’ve met who were very inspirational.”
Of all the elders whose music Marsalis grew on, he only mentioned Art Blakey with whose Jazz Messengers he previously played, in the course of finding his feet. He made a passing reference to Clarke Terry, whose music Dizzy Gillespie extended. He refused to talk about his direct influence
— Miles Davis. No reference was made to Sonny Rollins, Pharaoh Sanders, Ornette Coleman who are still alive — so they can savour the acknowledgement for this generation to appreciate the reality of what he is saying.
Notwithstanding, the elder musicians are still dominating and dictating the direction in which jazz should go — Sonny Rollins, Ornette Coleman, Pharaoh Sanders, Andrew Hill, Archie Shepp, Horace Silver, Randy Weston, Joe Henderson, Herbie Hancock.
Born in 1930, Rollins will be 80 on September 7, this year. And yet, his saxophone sound is still as strong and inspiring as ever. As if, for him, life begins at 80, his release of Sonny Please has invested him with the new responsibility of taking the bull by the horns. Now recording on Doxy, his own label, he has started his own company. The saxophone colossus has taken control of his destiny.
Rollins has always remained more venturesome than his contemporaries. On Sonny Please, he is more intrepid still, than a vast majority of musicians half his age. Qualities that have long defined his playing — the questing lyricism, the physical and emotional tenacity, the Shakespearian imagination — remain objects of wonders.
His solos are ingenious in the best sense of the word, combining a childlike joy of discovery with grown-up passion and wisdom. His tone is brighter and more brittle than it once was. Rollins is a swinger.
The Ornette Coleman quartet deals in moment-to-moment magic; the kind that defies documentation. His Sound Grammar, recorded in Germany, is a testimony to his creative development; the height of the avant-garde which he began in 1959.
Coleman will be 80 on March 9, 2010.
Pianist Andrew Hill is back on Blue Note Records with Time Lines, at age 72. As a pianist, his note choices are still cryptic, his phrase shapes are still angular and his movements still scurry. As a composer, bandleader, he still creates exotic, darkly luminous aural landscapes that inspire soloists.
Pianist Randy Weston, the 83-year-old composer, bandleader with great passion for African music, is still pursuing his agenda.
The elders that we know today played conventional jazz – in the mould of Charlie Parker — for many years. The transformation to avant-garde was thus a natural movement that was bound to take place. But these days, as if they want to walk before they crawl, the younger generation blunder into avant-garde without a thorough preliminary grounding. The foundation therefore is shaky and does not allow genuine creativity to flourish and blossom the way it did for the elder statesmen.
Archie Shepp has expanded his horizon both as a saxophonist in the avant-garde mould and a blues player and singer, at 72. As elder statesmen of jazz, Joe Henderson, Horace Silver, Herbie Hancock and all, have continued to inspire today’s jazz scene, setting the pace for the younger generation to follow.
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