Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
#150: SLSC - Day 44
Day 44: JayArr
JayArr is a reggae singer/songwriter born in Sierra Leone and has been residing in the US since 1989. While attending high school in Silver Spring MD, he joined a reggae band where he honed his skills. During a vacation to Sierra Leone in 2004, JayArr recorded two songs “Rise Up Salone" and "Gonna Miss You" featuring the Jungle Leaders, a talented group of guys with conscious reggae vibes. These two songs were featured on Jungle Leader’s "Same Soup" Album released in 2005. JayArr then went on to record "Back Stabber" featuring Jungle Leaders' own Funky Freddy – a song inspired by his struggle with dealing with disappointments from his trusted and close friends.
JayArr has performed at sold out venues in Sierra Leone, the UK and in the USA. He released his new album “Here 2 Stay” to a sold out audience in one of Washington DC’s premiere night clubs Zanzibar on The Waterfront on 28 March 2009. JayArr performed with Maxi Priest and Beniton the Menace at the same venue to a sold out audience on Oct. 3 2009. JayArr also performed with the late Gregory Isaacs “The Cool Ruler” on July 3, 2010 at Zanzibar on The Waterfront.
JayArr's debut album "Born Sierra Leonean" has sold over 10,000 copies through his self managed production and distribution company LYOA Incorporated. Songs on the album, Born Sierra Leonean, relay messages relating to the 10 years of political strife and brutality endured by Sierra Leoneans and also focuses on the continual corrupt practices of the powers that be, lending to the ominous sufferings of innocent men, women and children in Sierra Leone. His second album “Here 2 Stay”, featuring the highly anticipated singles “Here 2 Stay”, “Black Rose”, “Turn Me Loose” and “Call Me JayArr”, was released on 28 March 2009. Both albums are currently available in stores and can be downloaded from iTunes, napster, rhapsody, Verizon, Amazon, etc. Albums and singles can also be purchased online from his official website www.jayarr.com.
He is currently back from the studio working on his third album “African Child); which debuts October 21, 2011. The album features the singles “Rumors Feat. Funky Freddy”, “Secret Lover Feat Angie Morrison”, ”I Really Love U”-A remake of Bunny Mack’s smashing hit in the 60’s and 70’s and of course the album title “African Child”.
Official Websitewww.jayarr.com
Inspirations JayArr is inspired musically by Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Doctor Oloh, Luciano, Beres Hammond to name a few. JayArr is also inspired by people like Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Marcus Garvey, Nelson Mandela…people who are steadfast in their beliefs JayArr’s
Networking Sites
Facebook Fan Page
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jayarr_reggae
Myspace: www.myspace.com/jayarr-reggaemusic
AlbumsBorn Sierra Leonean (2006)
Here 2 Stay (2009)
African Child (2011)
Hit Singles“Rain Drops”, “I Really Love U Ft. Bunny Mack”, “Secret Lover Feat. Angie Morrison”, “Call Me JayArr”, “Black Rose”, “Turn Me Loose Feat. Blakka-P”, “Here 2 Stay Feat. EJ”, “Rumors Feat. Funky Freddy” and “Born Sierra Leonean Feat. AmzardLinx”.”
Philanthropic workJayArr is the President/CEO of his non-profit organization “The JayArr Foundation” which is geared towards fostering computer literacy for Secondary School-aged children and adults in Sierra Leone.
JayArr is a reggae singer/songwriter born in Sierra Leone and has been residing in the US since 1989. While attending high school in Silver Spring MD, he joined a reggae band where he honed his skills. During a vacation to Sierra Leone in 2004, JayArr recorded two songs “Rise Up Salone" and "Gonna Miss You" featuring the Jungle Leaders, a talented group of guys with conscious reggae vibes. These two songs were featured on Jungle Leader’s "Same Soup" Album released in 2005. JayArr then went on to record "Back Stabber" featuring Jungle Leaders' own Funky Freddy – a song inspired by his struggle with dealing with disappointments from his trusted and close friends.
JayArr has performed at sold out venues in Sierra Leone, the UK and in the USA. He released his new album “Here 2 Stay” to a sold out audience in one of Washington DC’s premiere night clubs Zanzibar on The Waterfront on 28 March 2009. JayArr performed with Maxi Priest and Beniton the Menace at the same venue to a sold out audience on Oct. 3 2009. JayArr also performed with the late Gregory Isaacs “The Cool Ruler” on July 3, 2010 at Zanzibar on The Waterfront.
JayArr's debut album "Born Sierra Leonean" has sold over 10,000 copies through his self managed production and distribution company LYOA Incorporated. Songs on the album, Born Sierra Leonean, relay messages relating to the 10 years of political strife and brutality endured by Sierra Leoneans and also focuses on the continual corrupt practices of the powers that be, lending to the ominous sufferings of innocent men, women and children in Sierra Leone. His second album “Here 2 Stay”, featuring the highly anticipated singles “Here 2 Stay”, “Black Rose”, “Turn Me Loose” and “Call Me JayArr”, was released on 28 March 2009. Both albums are currently available in stores and can be downloaded from iTunes, napster, rhapsody, Verizon, Amazon, etc. Albums and singles can also be purchased online from his official website www.jayarr.com.
He is currently back from the studio working on his third album “African Child); which debuts October 21, 2011. The album features the singles “Rumors Feat. Funky Freddy”, “Secret Lover Feat Angie Morrison”, ”I Really Love U”-A remake of Bunny Mack’s smashing hit in the 60’s and 70’s and of course the album title “African Child”.
Official Websitewww.jayarr.com
Inspirations JayArr is inspired musically by Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Doctor Oloh, Luciano, Beres Hammond to name a few. JayArr is also inspired by people like Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Marcus Garvey, Nelson Mandela…people who are steadfast in their beliefs JayArr’s
Networking Sites
Facebook Fan Page
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jayarr_reggae
Myspace: www.myspace.com/jayarr-reggaemusic
AlbumsBorn Sierra Leonean (2006)
Here 2 Stay (2009)
African Child (2011)
Hit Singles“Rain Drops”, “I Really Love U Ft. Bunny Mack”, “Secret Lover Feat. Angie Morrison”, “Call Me JayArr”, “Black Rose”, “Turn Me Loose Feat. Blakka-P”, “Here 2 Stay Feat. EJ”, “Rumors Feat. Funky Freddy” and “Born Sierra Leonean Feat. AmzardLinx”.”
Philanthropic workJayArr is the President/CEO of his non-profit organization “The JayArr Foundation” which is geared towards fostering computer literacy for Secondary School-aged children and adults in Sierra Leone.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
#149: SLSC - Day 43
Day 43: Ms. Swadu Natasha Beckley
Born in Freetown in 1987, Swadu attended the Leone Preparatory Primary School in Freetown under the care of late Aunty Bertha, and continued her studies at the Brook House Elementary School in Langata, when her family moved to Nairobi, Kenya in 1996. In the United States, Tasha continued her education graduating from Wakefield High School class of 2005 in Arlington, VA.
Titles:
Miss Sierra Leone World 2011
Miss Africa USA 1st Princess 2010
Miss University of Virginia's College at Wise 2009
Miss Sierra Leone Washington DC 2009
Swadu Natasha Beckley, a 24-year-old poet (with over 300 poems in her name) and a senior majoring in foreign studies at the University of Virginia’s college at Wise is the current Miss Sierra Leone World 2011 and First Runner-Up of Miss Africa USA 2010. Unassuming Tasha as she is fondly called, is a finalist representing Sierra Leone at the Miss World 2011 to be held in London, UK in November this year.
When once asked by a colleague about her fula first name and krio surname, she had this to say: “I am a proud and strong Sierra Leonean woman of mixed blood. I walk with the style and grace of a Mandingo princess; blessed with the smile and the radiance of a Fula tribe; my bluntness and manipulative ways was inherited through my Temne side; while my sharp curves , my round hips, my sweet words and thin lips were granted to me by ancestors of the Krio tribe. These are cultures united to create a strong black woman full of West African, Sierra Leonean pride”.
“Whether working with elderly women, school age girls, or the young mothers, I saw gorgeous, striking women in Sierra Leone. Not only did they have the qualities, but also they were pure in heart, and good spirited. I was so proud to be a Sierra Leonean woman. I will not say that I am prettier than the women from Sierra Leone, or that they were as pretty as me, because beauty is defined by one’s character. As women, our personalities make us glow from within. After experiencing this I am delighted to say that “SALONE,” women are not only stunning, they are hardworking, and good hearted, now that is what makes us so beautiful. I believe I have what it takes and humbled by this opportunity to represent Sierra Leone and Africa so proudly”.
Vote and encourage your colleagues and families to vote for Ms. Swadu at
http://missworld.com/allcontestant2011.html.
Read more about Ms. Swadu on her website.
Facebook Page
Miss World
Miss Sierra Leone World 2011
Miss Africa USA 1st Princess 2010
Miss University of Virginia's College at Wise 2009
Miss Sierra Leone Washington DC 2009
http://missworld.com/allcontestant2011.html.
Facebook Page
Miss World
Tune in to SLMTV Radio right now, call in, and make donations to send our extraordinary, intelligent, passionate, beautiful, and talented Ms. Swadu Natasha Beckley to Miss World 2011 as Miss Sierra Leone 2011
Sunday, September 25, 2011
#148: SLSC - Day 42
Day 42: Lapa
A lapa is the krio word for a cloth that is wrapped around the waist and worn by girls and women in Sierra Leone (and most African countries); boys/men also wear lapas, mostly in the rural areas though. It can be tied with the cloth itself, but I prefer lapas that have strings on them because I feel that it is more secure than the bulky cloth tied. After wrapping, it looks just like a skirt and is very comfortable. I do not wear it often, but when I do, I LOVE it! I love wearing *Africanas but sometimes they tend to be too extravagant, so what I've been doing is wearing regular shirts/tops with lapas; lapas usually come with their own Africana tops. The pictures below were what I wore to my university's African Students Association cookout this afternoon. I didn't want to go all out, but still represent. In case you can't tell, the orange "skirt" is THE LAPA.
Tip: There are some people that complain that when they tie lapas, they find it difficult to walk. When I was younger, the trick my lovely grandma taught me is that when you are about to wrap it around your waist, one must stand with their legs wide open. Therefore, after it's wrapped, there'll be a lot of space with the lapa and one can walk freely with whatever large or average strides one walks with. Brilliant right? I know, you're welcome :)
*Africana: Sierra Leonean word for African clothes/prints
P.S.: September is African Heritage Month.
A lapa is the krio word for a cloth that is wrapped around the waist and worn by girls and women in Sierra Leone (and most African countries); boys/men also wear lapas, mostly in the rural areas though. It can be tied with the cloth itself, but I prefer lapas that have strings on them because I feel that it is more secure than the bulky cloth tied. After wrapping, it looks just like a skirt and is very comfortable. I do not wear it often, but when I do, I LOVE it! I love wearing *Africanas but sometimes they tend to be too extravagant, so what I've been doing is wearing regular shirts/tops with lapas; lapas usually come with their own Africana tops. The pictures below were what I wore to my university's African Students Association cookout this afternoon. I didn't want to go all out, but still represent. In case you can't tell, the orange "skirt" is THE LAPA.
Tip: There are some people that complain that when they tie lapas, they find it difficult to walk. When I was younger, the trick my lovely grandma taught me is that when you are about to wrap it around your waist, one must stand with their legs wide open. Therefore, after it's wrapped, there'll be a lot of space with the lapa and one can walk freely with whatever large or average strides one walks with. Brilliant right? I know, you're welcome :)
*Africana: Sierra Leonean word for African clothes/prints
P.S.: September is African Heritage Month.
Lady Felicia - My President
Saturday, September 24, 2011
#147: SLSC - Day 41
Day 41: Giileh
Giileh Scholz simply known as Giileh is an actress, singer, and songwriter, who has been in the musical industry since childhood, winning choreography performances from age 11 until her early teens when she decided to put her music career on hold to complete her education. Her songs are a unique mosaic of R&B, Soul, with a touch of African beat blended together to create a melodious musical explosion.
Giileh explains that God has blessed her in every stage of her life and it’s only right to give him the honor. She has multiple skills in Management, a Bachelor’s in Economics, and a Masters in Technology Management. Giileh is now applying these skills to her well-managed music career, embracing music and life’s experience as a total package while adapting to the gospel industry.
Giileh has recently been a guest on the Murphy & Friends Show featured on Bronx Net TV in NY, she has performed on the Voice of America“African Beat Show” hosted by David Vandy where she was interviewed on “Infocus Television”, VOA’s TV to Africa. She has also shared the stage with various artists including Vicky Fornah, Atilla, just to name a few; participated in the African Gospel Concert in Virginia sharing the stage with multiple artists like, Josephine Atanga – Cameroon, George Okudi – Uganda, . Giileh always gives back to society and has supported multiple non profits such as - Me Against Poverty, Arch of Hope, Save Sierra Leone Foundation, and several others. Giileh will be dedicating one of her songs, “Nchomalain” to the Mama Africa Program for Women, the proceeds will be used to provide knowledge and supplies for women in African countries to assist with various pregnancy related issues.
Giileh is the Business Development Manager of Sierra Theatre Productions, www.stproduction.net – Sierra Leone’s first theatre company in the United States and performs the role of actress seamlessly. She has been featured in an ongoing series depicting the Sierra Leonean Culture at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. She has been featured in multiple plays with Sierra Theatre in 2011.
Giileh has embarked on a drive to embrace all countries in Africa exemplifying the talents of Africa to the world. She has worked closely with Mother Africa & Her Talents in the role of a performer and coordinator to ensure the successful launching of a yearly show that will portray the talents of African Designers, Musician, Artists, and Dance groups. She has emerged as an African International Artist with her newly released album “Bringing The News”. Giileh is devoted to what she believes is her God-given-purpose, to use her musical talent to unite and minister to people everywhere no matter what situation they find themselves in.
In December 2008, Giileh started public performances of this album, the feedback has been phenomenal her unique voice captures the attention of all who hear it and the words to her songs are powerfully uplifting. Audience participants have been known to remark that it is common to experience “one of Giileh’s songs playing in their minds when they encounter difficult situations. “Giileh explains that this album depicts different emotions that apply to the experiences in her life which everyone can relate to.
In concert with her philanthropic efforts of giving back to society, 10% of the proceeds of her newly released album “Bringing The News” will be donated to Save the Nation, Inc., www.savethenationinc.org a 501c (3) Non profit organization founded by Giileh – Current project is the SEA MOURNERS Project – geared to providing sustainable solutions to assist the surviving families of the boat tragedy that occurred in the Shenge Area in Sierra Leone, on September 8, 2009 where 200 out of 250 people lost their lives.
This bio was retrieved from Giileh's website.
Giileh Scholz simply known as Giileh is an actress, singer, and songwriter, who has been in the musical industry since childhood, winning choreography performances from age 11 until her early teens when she decided to put her music career on hold to complete her education. Her songs are a unique mosaic of R&B, Soul, with a touch of African beat blended together to create a melodious musical explosion.
Giileh explains that God has blessed her in every stage of her life and it’s only right to give him the honor. She has multiple skills in Management, a Bachelor’s in Economics, and a Masters in Technology Management. Giileh is now applying these skills to her well-managed music career, embracing music and life’s experience as a total package while adapting to the gospel industry.
Giileh has recently been a guest on the Murphy & Friends Show featured on Bronx Net TV in NY, she has performed on the Voice of America“African Beat Show” hosted by David Vandy where she was interviewed on “Infocus Television”, VOA’s TV to Africa. She has also shared the stage with various artists including Vicky Fornah, Atilla, just to name a few; participated in the African Gospel Concert in Virginia sharing the stage with multiple artists like, Josephine Atanga – Cameroon, George Okudi – Uganda, . Giileh always gives back to society and has supported multiple non profits such as - Me Against Poverty, Arch of Hope, Save Sierra Leone Foundation, and several others. Giileh will be dedicating one of her songs, “Nchomalain” to the Mama Africa Program for Women, the proceeds will be used to provide knowledge and supplies for women in African countries to assist with various pregnancy related issues.
Giileh is the Business Development Manager of Sierra Theatre Productions, www.stproduction.net – Sierra Leone’s first theatre company in the United States and performs the role of actress seamlessly. She has been featured in an ongoing series depicting the Sierra Leonean Culture at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. She has been featured in multiple plays with Sierra Theatre in 2011.
Giileh has embarked on a drive to embrace all countries in Africa exemplifying the talents of Africa to the world. She has worked closely with Mother Africa & Her Talents in the role of a performer and coordinator to ensure the successful launching of a yearly show that will portray the talents of African Designers, Musician, Artists, and Dance groups. She has emerged as an African International Artist with her newly released album “Bringing The News”. Giileh is devoted to what she believes is her God-given-purpose, to use her musical talent to unite and minister to people everywhere no matter what situation they find themselves in.
In December 2008, Giileh started public performances of this album, the feedback has been phenomenal her unique voice captures the attention of all who hear it and the words to her songs are powerfully uplifting. Audience participants have been known to remark that it is common to experience “one of Giileh’s songs playing in their minds when they encounter difficult situations. “Giileh explains that this album depicts different emotions that apply to the experiences in her life which everyone can relate to.
In concert with her philanthropic efforts of giving back to society, 10% of the proceeds of her newly released album “Bringing The News” will be donated to Save the Nation, Inc., www.savethenationinc.org a 501c (3) Non profit organization founded by Giileh – Current project is the SEA MOURNERS Project – geared to providing sustainable solutions to assist the surviving families of the boat tragedy that occurred in the Shenge Area in Sierra Leone, on September 8, 2009 where 200 out of 250 people lost their lives.
This bio was retrieved from Giileh's website.
Bringing the news
Nchomalain
Friday, September 23, 2011
#146: SLSC - Day 40
Day 40: SLMTV Radio
7104 Webster Street
Landover Hills, MD 20785
SLMTV Radio
SLMTV acronym for Sierra Leone Music Television. It was founded by Chris Williams (Dj Chris) in 2000 as a non-for-profit organization with aims to showcase his people in the entertainment industry.
With the everyday growing support, our website offers various functions in the entertainment sector. In 2008, SLMTV was able to launched its first video music awards offering awards to not only the entertainment field but also in arts and social sciences.
SAVE THE MUSIC FOUNDATION
Entertainment is one of the means in which our citizens have found peace and tranquility after the brutal war that killed so many. We have created the "Save Our Music" foundation in order to help kids with love for music to pursue their creative knowledge.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact via e-mail (info@slmtv.com), someone will contact you or send them any correspondence to:
7104 Webster Street
Landover Hills, MD 20785
SLMTV Radio
Thursday, September 15, 2011
#145: Miss Universe 2011 Pageant
Here's an amazing video I came across online featuring the winner, Ms. Leila Lopes (Miss Angola). Congratulations, Phenomenal Woman. I wish you all the best in your reign and strength to supremely serve communities with endless possibilities.
P.S.: I was very surprised to find out that there has been 60 years of hosting the Miss Universe Pageant, and this is the fourth time it has been won by an African nation and second time won by a Black African. Being the fact that this is the Miss Universe Pageant, I think changes need to be made to those figures and African nations need to put themselves out there more and utilize the Pageant as a gateway to be Ambassadors for their nations, Mama Africa, girls and women, and humanity as a whole. By God's grace, Sierra Leone will be represented there in the near future and also end as the WINNER(S).
More pictures of Miss Universe 2011-2012, Leila Lopes:
More pictures of Miss Universe 2011-2012, Leila Lopes:
Saturday, September 10, 2011
#144: SLSC - Day 39
Day 39: Creole Woman
Here's a video I came across and needed to share. I am a woman of Limba (Mother) and Creole (Father) ancestry who had a Creole upbringing; I can definitely relate to the perspectives shared by the women in this video. I think having a mini-documentary like this is a great initiative to see the viewpoint of other women, and also bring awareness on what it means to be Creole and Woman.
Here's a video I came across and needed to share. I am a woman of Limba (Mother) and Creole (Father) ancestry who had a Creole upbringing; I can definitely relate to the perspectives shared by the women in this video. I think having a mini-documentary like this is a great initiative to see the viewpoint of other women, and also bring awareness on what it means to be Creole and Woman.
Friday, September 9, 2011
#143: SLSC - Day 38
Day 38: Sierra Leone 50th Independence PSA
P.S.: I'd have love to be there during these events, but I've had fun at the events that have taken place in the US so far.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
#140: SLSC - Day 36
Day 36: Fatima Koroma (the poet)
Fatima went into the field of nursing and business technology after graduating from high school 2003. Fatima attended Virginia Highland Community college in West Virginia in 2005. She became a licensed practice nurse and earns a diploma in business technology in 2007. During her college years she competes in poetry contest honoring African American history with “I have a dream” poem, she won second place.
Fatima moved back to Northern Virginia in 2008 and work for Alexandria hospital for two years. She also works for The Hermitage of Northern Virginia and Cherrydale Nursing home as a licensed practice nurse. As a full time employer she attended Northern Virginia community, taking prerequisites to transfer and obtain a bachelors degree. Fatima earned a degree in applied science 2010 at Northern Virginia community college.
In 2010, she got accepted in Indiana State University and took few online nursing classes. Fatima is now studying physician assistant at Howard University. She currently works full time for the city of Fairfax with opiates addicts in an outpatient setting. The goal is to help people get off opiates, maintain abstinence and get their lives back.
Fatima Koroma is a 25 years old nurse/poet, born November 9th in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Fatima came to the United State at the age of 9 years old. She attended Gladys noon Spellman elementary and Kenmore middle school in Landover Maryland. Fatima maintains a 3.0 average at Kenmore middle school and was given funds from the foundation of Education. She discovered interest in writing poe...ms at Duval high school during her freshman years. Fatima enrolled in drama, art classes and stayed after school programs to practice scenes and plays.
Fatima went into the field of nursing and business technology after graduating from high school 2003. Fatima attended Virginia Highland Community college in West Virginia in 2005. She became a licensed practice nurse and earns a diploma in business technology in 2007. During her college years she competes in poetry contest honoring African American history with “I have a dream” poem, she won second place.
Fatima moved back to Northern Virginia in 2008 and work for Alexandria hospital for two years. She also works for The Hermitage of Northern Virginia and Cherrydale Nursing home as a licensed practice nurse. As a full time employer she attended Northern Virginia community, taking prerequisites to transfer and obtain a bachelors degree. Fatima earned a degree in applied science 2010 at Northern Virginia community college.
In 2010, she got accepted in Indiana State University and took few online nursing classes. Fatima is now studying physician assistant at Howard University. She currently works full time for the city of Fairfax with opiates addicts in an outpatient setting. The goal is to help people get off opiates, maintain abstinence and get their lives back.
As a full time college student and a mother of a two year old daughter, Fatima continues writing. Writing is Fatima' comfort zone with all the struggles in her life. Poetry is her passion; she writes what is in her heart and enjoys writing .Her writing targets relationships, dreams, goals, love, spiritual, wisdom, achieving and aspects of life. Fatima’s first book called “Fatima’s poetry of life “ is now in all stores and consists of 51 poems and many other things.
*This biography was taken from Ms. Fatima's Facebook fan page.
Monday, August 29, 2011
#139: HOAES (6)
So today I had a fantastic time in my Rock Mechanics lab, and I just want to scream to the world that I love Mining and Minerals Engineering, I love machines, and I love rocks! Being in a new major last semester was good, but I wasn't very excited about some of the coursework. However, I am enjoying this semester so far (even though I am only in the second week). Most of my classes last semester were very theoretical and I disliked the fact that I was not very hands-on with a lot of my classes, but one (Geology lab). One of the reasons why I decided to become an engineer is because I like doing practical work and being very hands-on, and I felt that engineering was definitely an appropriate path for me. But of late (meaning the past semesters), I've done less labs of my interest and more writing and I started losing my love for practical engineering.
BUT, I am glad to say that I am beginning to get my love for engineering again and my first lab work today definitely had something to do with it. Before going to the class, I was very tired because my day with classes started really early and I had already had 5 classes and they were all back-to-back, so I was not very excited to go to a 3-hour lab class. But to my wonderful surprise, reasons arose that made me wake up and get my excitement of being a mining and minerals engineering student. The purpose of today's lecture was to learn how to cut rock samples with the rock saw, polish the rocks to make them have smooth edges, measuring the lengths and diameters, and also finding RDQs. All the measuring was fun, but I was very happy when the *TA took us on a tour and asked if we will like to use the machines, and I gladly volunteered. He taught me how to use the rock saw safely with goggles and earplugs and also to be attentive not to cut off my fingers, how to polish my rock and test the level of smoothness.
Using the saw reminded me of my technology class that I had in 9th grade with one of my favorite teachers and mentors in the whole world. It just reminded me of why I decided to pursue engineering as a hobby and possible career, which is because of the hands-on work. This technology class was the deciding factor of my passion for engineering, and I had a wonderful teacher that made a great impact of me; he's the best. Also, it reminded me of the days I was involved with my Robotics Competition Team in high school, built robots and traveled to several locations for competitions with schools around the world. It was a great feeling to be using the big machines again, getting wet and dirty. As weird as it may sound, I felt pretty accomplished after I created a product out of my rock even though it was a small sample.
There are 14 people in my lab section with two girls, and I was the only girl in my group. Initially, the boys in my group were hesitant to mess with the rocks but with the opportunity of cutting the rocks that the TA presented, I just could not resist myself but to do it. As much as I get excitement from my major, as an individual and an engineer, I am always alert about being safe so I made sure I was following the proper steps. I have really small ears and so are the holes, so I notified the TA that the ear plugs wouldn't stay stuck in my ears; some of the boys were laughing at me and said that I need to stop acting like a girl; without being offended by it, I told them that yes I am a girl and an engineer and I am very cognizant that it's all about safety first, so if I am teased for being safe then that is all right with me.
So my advice today to you reading this is to follow your dreams and ambitions. There are times that you will be doing things and preliminary work that you do not enjoy but as long as the long-term goal is your dream, then it is worth it. I had to take some not-so-fun classes just to get to these fun classes, and the knowledge I gained in those previous classes have been beneficial to me in being a better student in the current classes. Also, do not pretend you know it all and shy away from learning new things because it will only hurt you in times to come; there were some calculations that I struggled with today in my lab but I put aside my pride and notified my group members that I did not know how to do it (even though one of them laughed at me), and by the end of class I was proficient in doing the calculations and reading the scales.
To my girls and women in engineering, be spontaneous and do things that make you comfortable. It's okay to be cautious whether you're teased for it or not. Do not be afraid to get dirty, wet, break a nail, and have fun, because you are only cheating yourself from all the fun in engineering and technology. Engineering and **STEM as a whole is exciting, so make the best out of every moment!
*TA: teacher's assistant
**STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
BUT, I am glad to say that I am beginning to get my love for engineering again and my first lab work today definitely had something to do with it. Before going to the class, I was very tired because my day with classes started really early and I had already had 5 classes and they were all back-to-back, so I was not very excited to go to a 3-hour lab class. But to my wonderful surprise, reasons arose that made me wake up and get my excitement of being a mining and minerals engineering student. The purpose of today's lecture was to learn how to cut rock samples with the rock saw, polish the rocks to make them have smooth edges, measuring the lengths and diameters, and also finding RDQs. All the measuring was fun, but I was very happy when the *TA took us on a tour and asked if we will like to use the machines, and I gladly volunteered. He taught me how to use the rock saw safely with goggles and earplugs and also to be attentive not to cut off my fingers, how to polish my rock and test the level of smoothness.
Using the saw reminded me of my technology class that I had in 9th grade with one of my favorite teachers and mentors in the whole world. It just reminded me of why I decided to pursue engineering as a hobby and possible career, which is because of the hands-on work. This technology class was the deciding factor of my passion for engineering, and I had a wonderful teacher that made a great impact of me; he's the best. Also, it reminded me of the days I was involved with my Robotics Competition Team in high school, built robots and traveled to several locations for competitions with schools around the world. It was a great feeling to be using the big machines again, getting wet and dirty. As weird as it may sound, I felt pretty accomplished after I created a product out of my rock even though it was a small sample.
There are 14 people in my lab section with two girls, and I was the only girl in my group. Initially, the boys in my group were hesitant to mess with the rocks but with the opportunity of cutting the rocks that the TA presented, I just could not resist myself but to do it. As much as I get excitement from my major, as an individual and an engineer, I am always alert about being safe so I made sure I was following the proper steps. I have really small ears and so are the holes, so I notified the TA that the ear plugs wouldn't stay stuck in my ears; some of the boys were laughing at me and said that I need to stop acting like a girl; without being offended by it, I told them that yes I am a girl and an engineer and I am very cognizant that it's all about safety first, so if I am teased for being safe then that is all right with me.
So my advice today to you reading this is to follow your dreams and ambitions. There are times that you will be doing things and preliminary work that you do not enjoy but as long as the long-term goal is your dream, then it is worth it. I had to take some not-so-fun classes just to get to these fun classes, and the knowledge I gained in those previous classes have been beneficial to me in being a better student in the current classes. Also, do not pretend you know it all and shy away from learning new things because it will only hurt you in times to come; there were some calculations that I struggled with today in my lab but I put aside my pride and notified my group members that I did not know how to do it (even though one of them laughed at me), and by the end of class I was proficient in doing the calculations and reading the scales.
To my girls and women in engineering, be spontaneous and do things that make you comfortable. It's okay to be cautious whether you're teased for it or not. Do not be afraid to get dirty, wet, break a nail, and have fun, because you are only cheating yourself from all the fun in engineering and technology. Engineering and **STEM as a whole is exciting, so make the best out of every moment!
*TA: teacher's assistant
**STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
#137: SLSC - Day 35
Day 35: Vickie Remoe
Host Vickie Remoe is a twenty something socialist, fashionista, concerned global citizen, Know-It-All, Africanist, self proclaimed “Biggest Swit Mot Na Salone”. Vickie is one of first “cool kids” to move back to Sierra Leone as early as 2007. Amongst many things she considers herself an innovative serial entrepreneur. She is executive producer of VRS, country director for Canoe Magazine (an African Lifestyle Magazine published in Ghana); she authors the SWITSALONE BLOG and can also be heard on Free Radio 95:7, Saturday as Co-Host to the Morning Show. Back in grade school teacher comments on Vickie’s report cards noted “very clever, but too talkative”, little did they know she was honing her skills. Vickie Remoe aspires to be an African Media Mogul and we think she is well on the way.
Swit Salone website
Vickie Remoe Show
Facebook
Host Vickie Remoe is a twenty something socialist, fashionista, concerned global citizen, Know-It-All, Africanist, self proclaimed “Biggest Swit Mot Na Salone”. Vickie is one of first “cool kids” to move back to Sierra Leone as early as 2007. Amongst many things she considers herself an innovative serial entrepreneur. She is executive producer of VRS, country director for Canoe Magazine (an African Lifestyle Magazine published in Ghana); she authors the SWITSALONE BLOG and can also be heard on Free Radio 95:7, Saturday as Co-Host to the Morning Show. Back in grade school teacher comments on Vickie’s report cards noted “very clever, but too talkative”, little did they know she was honing her skills. Vickie Remoe aspires to be an African Media Mogul and we think she is well on the way.
Swit Salone website
Vickie Remoe Show
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
#135: New camera = new adventures
My brother got me a new digital camera, and it's pretty awesome. Here are some test shots, and I plan to have a self-photoshoot with it very soon.
Monday, August 15, 2011
#134: SLSC - Day 34
Day 34: Sierra Leone Company
The Sierra Leone Company was the corporate body involved in founding the second British colony in Africa in 1792 through the resettlement of black American ex-slaves (called the Nova Scotian Settlers) who had initially been settled in Nova Scotia after the American Revolutionary War. The company came about because of the work of the ardent abolitionists, Granville Sharp, Thomas Clarkson, Henry Thornton, and Thomas's brother, John Clarkson, who is considered one of the founding fathers of Sierra Leone.
The Sierra Leone Company was the successor to the St. George's Bay Company which had been founded to attempt a mostly unsuccessful effort in 1787 to establish a free settlement for the "Black Poor" of London, many of whom were Black Loyalists, who had escaped and fought for the British following Dunmore's Proclamation during the American War of Independence). The 1787 expedition was made up of 300 of London's Black Poor, 60 English Working class Women, and an assortment of white officials, clergy and craftsmen to assist in building the colony - 411 men, women and children in all. Upon landing, they founded Granville Town as their base. This first colony only lasted about two and a half years, decimated by disease and later abandonment. The coup de grace occurred in 1789, when the neighboring Temne people burned the settlement during a dispute between the Temne and slave traders.
To know more about the Sierra Leone Company, read this.
The Sierra Leone Company was the corporate body involved in founding the second British colony in Africa in 1792 through the resettlement of black American ex-slaves (called the Nova Scotian Settlers) who had initially been settled in Nova Scotia after the American Revolutionary War. The company came about because of the work of the ardent abolitionists, Granville Sharp, Thomas Clarkson, Henry Thornton, and Thomas's brother, John Clarkson, who is considered one of the founding fathers of Sierra Leone.
The Sierra Leone Company was the successor to the St. George's Bay Company which had been founded to attempt a mostly unsuccessful effort in 1787 to establish a free settlement for the "Black Poor" of London, many of whom were Black Loyalists, who had escaped and fought for the British following Dunmore's Proclamation during the American War of Independence). The 1787 expedition was made up of 300 of London's Black Poor, 60 English Working class Women, and an assortment of white officials, clergy and craftsmen to assist in building the colony - 411 men, women and children in all. Upon landing, they founded Granville Town as their base. This first colony only lasted about two and a half years, decimated by disease and later abandonment. The coup de grace occurred in 1789, when the neighboring Temne people burned the settlement during a dispute between the Temne and slave traders.
To know more about the Sierra Leone Company, read this.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
#132: I never P-word
So this summer has been VERY busy for me. I've busy with many things such as working with my philanthropy, back-to-school prepping, but more importantly, I've been spoiling myself with lots of family and friends time. I've been loving all of it, but it's been taking a little of my time from blogging and doing dance videos. However, knowing me and how I'm good with manipulating time, I'll make it work!
Oh by the way, the p-word that I was referring to earlier is "Promise." I am not a big fan of that word at all, because my life tends to be so spontaneous and unpredictable that I do not trust myself when it comes to offering promises. I'd rather stay hush about something than promising it to someone. For instance, I said I'd make lots of dance videos and blog exorbitantly this summer, but that hasn't happened yet. So I am very happy that I never promised because when promises are made but not accomplished, disappointment is the follow-up, and I do not like disappointing people; also, it gives no room for others to discredit you. The moral of the story is that I'd rather surprise than promise.
While out and about this summer with one of my friends, I decided to have a mini-photoshoot with one of y new fave outfits. It's a summer dress I purchased a couple of months ago and I absolutely adore it. I think my figure suits this outfit, and the dress compliments the summer season! There were more taken but my friend's phone's camera didn't have great quality for the high-fashion photoshoot I wanted. Check out the pictures below.
Oh by the way, the p-word that I was referring to earlier is "Promise." I am not a big fan of that word at all, because my life tends to be so spontaneous and unpredictable that I do not trust myself when it comes to offering promises. I'd rather stay hush about something than promising it to someone. For instance, I said I'd make lots of dance videos and blog exorbitantly this summer, but that hasn't happened yet. So I am very happy that I never promised because when promises are made but not accomplished, disappointment is the follow-up, and I do not like disappointing people; also, it gives no room for others to discredit you. The moral of the story is that I'd rather surprise than promise.
While out and about this summer with one of my friends, I decided to have a mini-photoshoot with one of y new fave outfits. It's a summer dress I purchased a couple of months ago and I absolutely adore it. I think my figure suits this outfit, and the dress compliments the summer season! There were more taken but my friend's phone's camera didn't have great quality for the high-fashion photoshoot I wanted. Check out the pictures below.
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