DE MAS KINGS & QUEENS

Interview with Orlando’s Own “We Ting Mystic Mas”

KUOMagazine had the pleasure of interviewing one of Orlando’s own Allan Gopie who shared a little on who’s “We Ting Mystic Mas,” that’s playing mas for 2016 Orlando Carnival on Sunday, May 29^th at the Central Florida Fairgrounds We also wanted to know, what has been their biggest challenges they have encountered? KUOMagazine wanted to get a little more up close a personal when it comes to what their ethos, their biggest challenges, inspiration in designing their costumes, what culture means to them, and a few beauty tips for the road, We Ting Radio/Natural Mystic Soundsation 20^th Anniversary….and so much more…. So let’s start the conversation…….

KUOMagazine: Allan, who makes up "We Ting Mystic Mas," also, which Island do you all represent and how did you come up with the name for Mas band?

We Ting Radio (Allan): First, I would like to thank KUOMagazine for bestowing the honor of interviewing me, I am humbled by this opportunity. We Ting Mystic Mas is a family band comprised of family members of We Ting Radio and Natural Mystic Soundsation, who is celebrating 20 years in the entertainment industry. The beauty of We Ting Mystic Mas is we do not represent any specific island, but we represent the WORLD. Carnival and Mas is not something that should be specific to just the Caribbean as all over has many different variations of Carnival and we represent. The name We Ting Mystic Mas is the combination of We Ting Radio and Natural Mystic Soundsation.

KUOMagazine: I like that Allan, because in the name “We Ting” represents everyone as Carnival is a representation of everyone and not a specific island. Seeing your costumes at 4th Annual Orlando Carnival Guide on March 20th, I have to say they were beautiful and the ladies wearing them. I know each mas band is different when it comes to designing, them, style. Allan, where do you and the team draw your inspiration this year?

We Ting Radio (Allan): Our designs for this year is based on the full creativeness from our designer Sherry Lowe, owner of By SheLo. The concept we explained to her was that we want to bring heat or fire to the road – take carnival by storm. Sherry birthed the concept of A.R.S.O.N – A Revellor Spirit On Nirvana and then each section was based on this “FIRE” Our anthem for this year is We Ting Mystic Mas – bringing the heat to the road! All of our sections revolve around that concept – Children’s – Burning Flames, Men’s – Cool Blaze and our 3 Women Sections – The Perfect Match, Phoenix and Fire Starter

KUOMagazine: What has been We Ting Mystic Mas biggest challenges this year as you’re getting ready to play mas for 2016 Orlando Carnival?

We Ting Radio (Allan): The few challenges that we have encountered really has nothing to do with us, but what was transpiring with the delay of finalizing Orlando Carnival and the multiple entities that wanted to control it. So now that there is One Carnival and it is in the mecca for Orlando at Central Florida Fairgrounds, we really hope people will come out and support it fully.

KUOMagazine: What advice would you give someone who wants to play mas or form a Mas Band of their own?

We Ting Radio (Allan): We have many of first time mas people questioning me and what I tell them is the following, play mas with who you know you will have a great time with and value your safety.  We Ting is a family group and what I mean by family is that all the personalities that is a part of We Ting Radio and NMS fully function as a family.  We never say team – we only say family members. And my motto - #FamilyStickTogether means we will make sure everyone is safe on the road with us and make sure you have a blast with all of our DJ’s and sound for this and any other events that we do.

KUOMagazine: Has We Ting Mystic Mas played mas anywhere else other than Orlando (like other Caribbean Islands or USA)?

We Ting Radio (Allan): WTMM is a newly formed mas group, but every one of us has been in mas throughout many areas of the world. Personally I have been a part of Miami, Toronto Caribana, Trinidad, Orlando and New York as MC, DJ or mas band coordinator.  Other members of this family has played various roles as well.

KUOMagazine: Is there a Kiddies section for Orlando Carnival 2016 or Orlando Kiddies Carnival 2016will there be in the future?

We Ting Radio (Allan): We do have a Kids Section only for Orlando Carnival 2016, which is called Burning Flames at a cost of $30 to register, and includes the costume, food and drinks for the kids.

KUOMagazine: Question: You play mas because?

We Ting Radio (Allan): I play mas because I love to behave like one big backside. I love when your surrounded by people and there are smiling, laughing have such a great time in their vibrant colors and enjoying the moment of happiness in life.  When the music is blazing and the bass hit ya! It is a feeling you can’t fathom on the outside but only in the mist of it.  Also, the beautiful woman makes for great eye candy as well!

KUOMagazine: lol, I can’t argue with that Allan. What has been your favorite memories of Carnival and where?

We Ting Radio (Allan): Like, I said I have been active in Carnival in many…many different ways.  My favorite memory was back in 2012 for Trinidad and Tobago’s 50^th Anniversary for Miami Carnival 2012.  I assisted the Miami Carnival with marketing and obtaining a couple of artists as well as a DJ. The place was packed, maybe over 45,000 people and Machel was the headliner for the Main Stage Sunday.  I have been to many of his performances, but I was doing a live broadcast of the main stage and I was on the stage doing my radio broadcast.  My daughter is a huge Machel Montano fan and she was 12 at the time.  She was on the stage with me and got to see Machel perform from right on the stage. The memorable moment was when Machel sat down to take a breather and let Farmer and Patrice do a couple songs, he sat right next to my daughter Aishwarya – who was like frozen!  So she got to meet, see and speak to her idol.  Those moments of helping people meet their favorite artist is why I love doing what I do.

KUOMagazine: Can you share 3 Beauty tips for Carnival day?

We Ting Radio (Allan): The beauty stuff I leave to the professional Ameilia but here goes my take on this

1.     Do Not Wear a lot of Makeup: Let your skin breathe!! Dehydration is a huge problem for many people on this day and many of the makeup keeps heat in.

2.     Dress Comfortable: Make sure your costume fits you so when you’re out on the road whole day and night you can go til the next morning!

3.     Good Foot Ware: Yes, heals are sexy but don’t need to tote you on we back! Wear comfortable footwear!

KUOMagazine: Have you ever won band of the year or King/Queen if you played mas before?

We Ting Radio (Allan): This year we winning band of the year!

KUOMagazine: I love that positivity Allan. You have to claim what you want. So, what’s next for We Ting Mystic Mas and where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

We Ting Radio (Allan): What’s next for us Orlando Carnival 2017 as well as Miami Carnival 2017.  We Ting Mystic Mas will be in Trinidad J’ouvert 2017. The remainder of this year the station has many many other events and productions, but we will calendar for 2017.  In 5 years with our DJs throughout the world, we will have representation in over 5 carnivals a year.  

KUOMagazine: Very Nice Allan, many #BigTing happens 2017! As a band leader, what are the key ingredients to make a successful Carnival this year?

We Ting Radio (Allan): For Carnival and for Life – the key ingredient is UNITY and FAMILY – if you and your family members unite for a common goal, you have no choice but to be successful.  Take away individualism or this one is better than that one – you will be successful in life with this track of mind.  Help your fellow brother and sister and you will see.

KUOMagazine: Amen and Amen to that Allan. I love the name We Ting Radio, because it makes us apart of your team. Please share how We Ting Radio (Mission/Vision) came about and your partners?

We Ting Radio (Allan): First, we are not a team – we are a family. We welcome one and all to our family. Our listeners are our family as well and we do all we can to help them who support us. I used to manage a radio station for many years where I helped to increase the brand to international recognition. My mindset was always different and I would here, Allan with your visions you should do your own thing so after 6 years there and encouragement from my daughter Aishwarya and my girlfriend Ameilia Boodoosingh – my better half, I finally decided that I should really do this with no boundaries from other people.  The difference on this station that I wanted is one focus – 100% Family Unity all the time – we not about ourselves – we are for everyone who is a part of this family. A comedian personality from Trinidad & Tobago – Darrel Dookoo, Ameilia Boodoosingh and I tried to come up with a name and we really went round and round but the main thing is that this will not be branded as a West Indian Station, but a station for everyone no matter race color or creed. The station started out with my brothers, Mike Dabydeen – (Web Designer, #JMFB and all things technical), Viron Mangray (DJ Viron), Devin Sayroo (DJ D Rock), Razak Ali (DJ Ali), Mark Layne (DJ Mark) and Horace Foster (DJ Redd). Just to clarify, Mike never left the other station but he is a major part of the success this station has achieved thus far and DJ Redd never worked with us prior but I meet him at a previous event and he fit right into our mindset – this family will make a difference to culture and this world thru the medium of music. Our family has grown from 7 on our launch date of February 1^st, 2015 to now 30 members and the station is bringing a carnival mas truck!

KUOMagazine: I love your outlook and mindset when it comes to family and unity and your vision where there’s no boundaries of culture and people. What are your ethos/motto when it comes to We Ting Radio?

We Ting Radio (Allan): Our slogan is – It’s Not Your Ting, It’s Not My Ting – ITS WE TING!    

KUOMagazine: Wow, love it! Now let's sip a little Karibbean Tea for a moment....You have been in our Caribbean Community for a while, what is your view on our culture? If you had to make three (3) recommendations/changes for us to bring back UNITY, and see more cultural events, or things that we are missing that we need to incorporate to enhance the culture here in Orlando/Central Florida, what would you suggest?

We Ting Radio (Allan): Very good question. The culture is very strong, but the only thing that most people see is an old TrinBago saying – “People are like crabs in a barrel – don’t like to see a next person succeed and pulling them down!” If we all work together for uplifting of each other it will make a difference.  Also, respect what people specialize in and value their worth.  I hate when promoters call you for a quote and the first thing they do is try to beat you down on the price, when they should be proactive and say “This is the budget I have, are you able to work for this amount” but they are willing to pay someone that has no added value to their event wasted money. People knowledge and experience speaks volume, remove personal feelings and work together for uplifting of our community and culture.

KUOMagazine: Well, that TrinBago saying, is pretty much a universal saying everywhere, but you’re so on point with that. It’s truly a syndrome where groups of situated people hurt those in our community by attempting to get ahead with their own gain. It is so wrong on all levels. Sipping some more Karibbean tea; is there hope for Orlando Caribbean Culture?

We Ting Radio (Allan): Yes, there is positive hope, because every day many of us are doing the work to keep it alive for our children of tomorrow.  We just have to continue the fight to promote it proud.

KUOMagazine: Your so right, we all have to do our part in keeping the culture alive in our community and support one another. What does Culture mean to "We Ting Mystic Mas/We Ting Radio?" 

We Ting Radio (Allan): The meaning of Culture to us – The promotion of one’s heritage and differences to make different demographics aware of how other societies are so vast with knowledge, wealth and interpretation.

KUOMagazine: Well said! Any final words, and please share all your social media links, website so we can stay connected with you all.

We Ting Radio (Allan): Once again, thank you for allowing me this opportunity.  Please look for us on all media platforms – We Ting Radio – Andriod App, ITunes Radio and Tune in Radio App. You can also use your web browser on your phone, laptop or desktop – www.WeTingRadio.com and we are on all social media platforms as well - @wetingradio – link we up – tell we what you doing or how you’re going.  Most importantly remember – ITS NOT YOUR TING – ITS NOT MY TING – ITS WE TING!!

On behalf of KUOMagazine it was truly a pleasure chatting with Allan (We Ting Mystic Mas/We Ting Radio) and thank you for allowing us inside your world & family. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors, Orlando Carnival 2016 and the years to come. Also, happy 20^th Anniversary Natural Mystic Soundsation

USHANA KHUBLAL

Ushana Khublal a Karibbean Girl Who Works Hard & Plays Harder as a Business Women, in my Family, and in my Culture

My Family: (L) Ushana, Dad, Mom, (brother) Raymond, (sister-in-law) Sharmin, (sister) Nadia, (brother-in-law) Naresh, (bottom) my niece Aaliyah

KUOMagazine was honored to feature Ushana Khublal, whom I’ve gotten to know over the years. She allowed us to get up close and personal on how she vybez as a Karibbean Girl. I have admired her style and how passionate she is about being a wonderful aunt, a business women and in her culture. Ushana Khublal shared how family is the most important part of her life. She was honest about not being a very religious person, but she does believe in a higher power. Ushana is not afraid to say that she puts family first above all. She’s also "God Fearing" but, however chooses not to give that "Power" a specific name. Ushana believes we all take different paths to get to the same destination (The path in this case: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, etc.... to get to the same destination: A better life after this). She also mentioned that, work and play go hand in hand for her. She works hard and plays just as hard and hope to one day say "Work Hard, Play Harder." She loves to travel and being in the promotion business, it now gives her an added excuse as to why she should travel more. AND SHE TAKES FULL ADVANTAGE!!! If she’s not at her regular 9 to 5, she’s helping with events or promoting Soiree Events. Ok, Ushana, let’s chat while sipping a some Karibbean Tea, seeing that neither one of us drink alcohol or smoke, lol!

KUOMagazine: What is the one misconception that a lot of people have of you?

Ushana: The one misconception people have of me is that I drink alcohol or I smoke. Now let me preface this: I see nothing wrong with either of these two activities, I just choose not to part-take in them. I do not drink, smoke or do any drugs (I also do not eat pork), it was a decision I made in my teens that I have stuck to and will continue to stick to. It does get annoying when people ask "Were you high or drunk last night?" or "Did you finally have a drink last night?" All I need to have a good time is good friends, family, music and coconut water. It's what makes me high :).

KUOMagazine: Ushana, I agree with you 100% when it comes to religion, because we all have our own beliefs that’s your own and who are we to judge. Now, that saying “Work Hard, Play Harder”, when you truly enjoy what you do it really doesn’t seem like work at all and I truly love what I do as well as meeting so many people within my community and worldwide. Can you share a little about how you take pride in being part of Care for the Community, it’s mission, how it gives back in the community and who’s all involved?

Ushana: I take pride in being part of Care for the Community, which is a non-profit 501(c) entity. Care for The Community's mission is to "provide assistance to urban communities in hopes of building a stronger tomorrow". We work together to give back to the community through charity events and some of our proceeds from our shows also go back into the community that so strongly supports us. Between travel, work and partying (which isn't really partying because most of it is networking and promoting events, sometimes I have so much fun doing it that it doesn't really feel like work). I also love spending time with my niece, Aaliyah. She is the one person that I can always depend on to make a good day great and a bad day better. She inspires me to do better and try to make better decisions in my life. My parents are an inspiration, they will be celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary this year and that in itself is a milestone that most couples can only dream of. Even though they were strict (and still are), I thank them for raising me the way they did, or I would not be the person that I am today. My sister (Nadia) and brother in law (Naresh) are also a huge part of my life and they play an integral part of my success in almost all aspects of my life. For two young individuals to have accomplished what they have in so little time, I can only contribute it to hard work, dedication and love. They too work hard and play just as hard. I also have a brother (which most people are unaware of because he lives down South), my brother (Raymond) was always there for me when things were not going right in my life and at one point, he became the "little big brother," as his life evolved, he got married and is expecting a baby girl within the coming days. I can't wait to meet my second niece. 

KUOMagazine:  That’s so amazing the wonderful things Soiree/Care for the Community is doing locally. Thank you all so much and congrats on your new nieces. If you had to make three (3) changes in your Caribbean community that reflect on (Cultural Events, Carnival, uniting Promoters) so that we can all come together, what would it be?

Ushana: If I had to make three (3) changes in our Caribbean Community that would reflect our culture so that we can come together I would:

1.     Have a Community Ambassador and a Caribbean Congress that are both elected by the public (Promoters, business owners, masqueraders, band leaders, etc...), but it would be different folks from different Caribbean Communities, so that EVERYONE has a voice (Guyanese, Trinis, VI, Bajans, Africans, Haitians, Americans, Puerto Ricans, etc...). The same way they are elected, is the same way they can be voted off.

2.     Have a meeting every quarter with this group so that we as a community can unite and bring EVERYONE together by sharing events, ideas and thoughts. This way we can ALL SUPPORT everyone. Support breathes support, it breathes unity and it will breathe success.

3.     Involve the corporations, Disney, Universal, major hotels, Walmart, Publix, etc... in our initiatives and bring them on board as sponsors for our events. But these companies will not work with a community that is divided. We all have to be on the same page. Individual goals and business goals are important and everyone wants theirs to succeed. However, learning to not be selfish and not bring down the next person is something that we AS A COMMUNITY is lacking and what is bottle-necking us as Caribbean’s/West Indians/Islanders/Foreigners. 

KUOMagazine: Being from the Caribbean Heritage, what does your culture mean to you and how do you embrace it and what’s your motto?

Ushana: I was born in Georgetown, Guyana. My family and I left Guyana when I was 9 years old and migrated to Queens, NY. 9 years later, in 1996 we then moved to Ocoee, Florida and 20 years later (this Thanksgiving), this is where we call home. The one thing that remained constant in my life was family. My parents always made sure that we respected not only our elders, but our siblings, our neighbors and our friends. They always made it a point to never look down on anyone and to always include these people in our lives, no matter how different they were. My mom is Muslim, my father is Hindu and we were exposed to those religions as well as Christianity (among others) because some of the most celebrated holidays in our household were: Christmas & Easter. As Caribbean children we didn't know the "difference" between the religions because it never played a part in our celebrations. We had Hindus at our Islamic Prayers, Muslims at Dewali celebrations and everyone was over for Christmas and flying kites for Easter. This is what Caribbean Culture means to me: Unity, peace and love. My motto would have to be "From many people, color, race & beliefs, we rise as one". 

KUOMagazine: Yes, we all need #Unity #Peace and #Love in our lives. I’ve dealt with many obstacles What advice would you give other women who have trouble embracing their true-self, loving who they are and love the culture they were born within?

Ushana: I'm not the best person to give advice as I am always looking for it myself. The only words I can share with other women who have trouble embracing their true-self & culture would be to: Find something that you love to do and make it a part of your life. Once you make it a part of your life, it will make you happy and then you will learn to apply that happiness in other areas of your life. Never bring the next woman down, no matter how their body is shaped, what they have, what they have been through in the past or what they are going through currently. We already are seen by some as an inferior species because we are females, then we have to deal with the fact that we are from a Caribbean Culture that seems to only want to drink, party and dress scantly. LOVE YOURSELF, BE PROUD AND DON'T BE AFRAID TO SHOW IT!!!! People will come around and if they don't, our fire will outshine their light.

KUOMagazine: Is there anything here in your community you would like to get more involve in that you don't see happen?

Ushana: There is so much that I would like to get involved in, in this community, but the main thing on my list would be educating our children when it comes to sex and sex education. I'm not sure why, but it seems that Caribbean/West Indian parents have the hardest time speaking to their children about sex (I know the conversations in my household were almost nonexistent when I was younger). I see so many children having children. It's heartbreaking because these young mothers and fathers are missing out on a huge part of their lives because they have to become parents too soon. Some are successful but the majority of them end up making poor decisions for their future and it becomes a cycle that repeats itself. It doesn't have to be a never ending cycle.

KUOMagazine: When dealing with day to day stress, where do you go to find peace within or techniques to get yourself grounded?

Ushana: When dealing with day to day stress, I like the peace and quiet of my room. I just lay in my bed and let the silence take over. I'll also clean, from top to bottom, I'm not sure why, but that action alone gives me a peace of mind, no matter if I just finished cleaning the day before.

KUOMagazine: Being single and loving my independence of my own choice, have you found love yet Ushana? If not, what is your ideal man that would truly make you happy?

Ushana: I have found love. But at this moment, I'm single and doing me. What's the saying: "It's better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all?” I definitely haven't lost, but found love and appreciative of everything it has and is still doing for my life.

KUOMagazine: Are there any hidden talents you have such as singing, playing an instrument, dancing, etc.?

Ushana: The only hidden talents I have is baking and cooking. I make a mean cheesecake (and I don't even eat cheesecake), deviled eggs, stuffed shells, Honey BBQ Wings, Potato Salad, etc.....but, that's about it. Pretty boring :) 

KUOMagazine: Finally, finish the question "I Vybe as A Karibbean Girl because"?

Ushana: I Vybe as a Karibbean Girl because I love the music, the food, the people & the culture. I embrace all the islands and countries. I try to be as diverse as possible when it comes to the different Caribbean communities, I try to embrace all the cultures as I would my own.

KUOMagazine: How's the culture different when visiting various Caribbean Islands and which ones have you gone to?

Ushana:  I have been blessed and fortunate to have traveled to Trinidad, Tobago, The Bahamas, Mexico, The US & British Virgin Islands, Guyana, The Cayman Islands (off the top of my head). The 1 thing that I see that's common with the folks in all of these "Caribbean Communities" is happiness. I think that comes from a simplified lifestyle, love for the little things and appreciation for the greater things. These people value their culture, their heritage, they like to cook, eat, dance and enjoy themselves. They work hard but never seem to forget to take time and enjoy all the fruits of their labor. So honestly, I don't see much of a difference in their cultures...but, I see a difference in their cultures compared to the American and European Culture. 

KUOMagazine: What’s next for Ushana and where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? Ushana: Next, hmmmmm....that's a loaded question. I have a venture in Guyana with my dad that I'm contemplating. Sticking with the promotion business and staring a family. That should keep me busy for the next 5 years.

KUOMagazine: Any final words you would like to share, also add all your social links and Soiree's?

Ushana: #LifeIsWhatYouMakeIt

On behalf of KUOMagazine, we would like to say thank you to Ushana Khublal for sharing how she vybez as a Caribbean girl by Working Hard & Plays Harder throughout her endeavors. We look forward to see what Ushana has instore for her Caribbean community and beyond. Don’t forget to follow Ushana on her personal and business social media links at: FB Personal: www.facebook.com/public/Ushana-Khublal

Instagram Personal: www.instagram.com/ushybaby

LinkedIn Personal: www.linkedin.com/in/ushana-khublal-ab177a66

Facebook Soiree: www.facebook.com/eventsbysoiree/?fref=ts

Facebook Flag Fete: www.facebook.com/search/top/?=Flag%20Fete  

Instagram FlagFete: www.instagram.com/flagfete

Also, visit her family business websites at: Care For the Community: www.careforthecommunity.org/home

Soiree Orlando: www.thesoireeco.com

Orlando Carnival Guide: www.OrlandoCarnivalGuide.com

Flag Fete: www.flagfete.com

A Karibbean Girl who stands in her Truth...her Business...her Family.....and her Culture!

KUOMagazine.com “Karibbean Girlz Vybe”

With Jenna Walker

Article Published April/May issue 2015 of KUOMagazine.com

Written by Jenna Walker

A Karibbean Girlz Vybe interview with Jenna Walker

My name is Jenna Walker; I was born in Orlando, Florida at Arnold Palmer Hospital, into a Jamaican family.  I’ve been raised in Orlando, Florida and grew up in a house with my Mom and Nana, with my Aunt only five houses down from us.  My aunt is a singer, and before I was born she would sing into my mom’s tummy. We believe that this is where I got my talent. When I was born I loved to sing as soon as I could, and I loved to hear music. I used to figure out songs on the piano without any form of training, and imitate singers on the radio. 

I’ve always loved music, and have a very supportive family who lets me make all the “noise” I want. My family is a mixture of many cultures, but we are primarily Jamaican. I think that growing up with my amazing family has really enhanced my character. The closeness and the respect we share, has really made me appreciate what I have. When I look at my family, compared to American families, I see more of a bond, and I do believe that that bond made me a more humble person.  Take the food for example; we eat many unique things that Americans wouldn’t touch!  Just that alone has made me open to trying new things, and not being afraid.  Jamaicans are tough as a people, and their classic ideals have pushed me both personally and musically.

I’ve pretty much taught myself everything I know about music, with bits of help along the way. I’ve been working on trying to find my own sound, and getting my own style, because ultimately, I want to be a musical artist. I first attended the TrinBago Talent Competition Show three years ago. The first time was a mess. I didn’t make it to the second round, and fled in tears. The host, John Tobago, came to me and explained that it was just a “bump” in the road, and that even celebrities have those moments. He told me to keep on trying, and honestly, showed so much faith in me that I couldn’t stop there. I came back the next year, hoping for the best, but I still didn’t make it to the second round.  However; this time, I stayed to the end and congratulated the winners, because they were fantastic. The third year, I put it all out on the table. 

I made sure I was emotionally invested into the song, and I worked the stage. I even brought my ukulele along for the ride! I made it to the next round! With sweaty palms I finally did it. I finally won and came first place. It felt great to see my hard work pay off and see all the people who believed in me all along looking so proud. Without my crazy, wonderful family, I would never make it this far. They have given me the perseverance, and confidence to get where I am today.  I couldn’t ask for a better life; or a better family to share it with. 

I want to thank KUOMagazine/Between Karibbean Friends Magazine for allowing me to share my story on how a Vybe as a Karibbean Girl!

By Jenna Walker

Karibbean Girls who stands in her Truth...her Music.....and her Culture!

Facebook @KaribbeanGirlzVybe

             KUOMagazine @KaribbeanGirlzVybe

        with Priya and Prasanna Singh 

Article Published May/June issue 2015 of KUOMagazine.com

Written by Mea Allman, KUOMagazine Founder/Editor-in-Chief

Photo credit by Singh Family

My name is Priya Singh and being in the Caribbean community has always been an enjoyable experience for me. I enjoy the different events we got to, the music, the dancing, and so much more. My parents are growing us up in our culture. I appreciate it very much because even though it’s different from everyone else I wouldn’t change it for the world. I am in a dance group at Maya’s Dance Studio, that I absolutely am in love with. I’ve been dancing for 9 years and dancing brings me closer to my culture too. My parents have a shipping business (PS Freight) this business has brought me to many different types of events to promote. This is a very well learning experience. Learning the business helps us in many different ways such as we get to learn the form of business, people skills, we get to learn about our community by talking to other people in our society. I can go on and on about how growing up in the Caribbean community is not only unique but it is a very knowledgeable society overall. I am a Karibbean Girl who Vybez!

My name is Prasanna Singh and being in a society is so heartwarming and everyone is close together, our parents have taught us a lot about where they came from and how they grew up. We have been all over in our Caribbean community, this society our parents exposed us to what Caribbean people do and we absolutely love it. When, we were growing up our lives were very different from all our other friends, when we use to talk about in class it use to be so different, but we wouldn’t have had it any other way. We love how we are growing up and love the society we are in to this day!

What was different from everyone else is that we got to go to so many different events and meet so many new people. We had great exposure to people and became sociable because of that, but it doesn’t mean we talk to everyone and think they are your friend! Also, we got to go to different places that most kids don’t go! Another difference is in respect and what we call our elders, such as we call our parent’s friends Aunty and Uncle, we don’t do first names and say Mr. and Mrs. Having parents that own their own business, is not the easiest thing because they are always out and they are always busy! Both of them try to make us the priority, and try to make sure we have as much fun as possible without trying to make it a big deal, but we know & understand what they have given us and we appreciate it. We love helping our parents out and it prepares you for the world of when you have an actual job. Please do not mistake the fact that we still have to keep up our grades or we would not be able to do the things we get to do.

Also they have thought us to respect ourselves and do things with class and pride. We think the best part about being in the Caribbean society is you get a diverse selection of music to listen, good food eat to eat such as curry, any kind of curry, jerk chicken, bake & salt-fish, um um good. We dance for Mayas Dance Studio for about over 8 years now and we have had so much wonderful experiences and opportunities. Just another aspect of our diversity, we can dance to Bollywood, Reggae, Soca, Chutney and the list goes on. Our studio dances a lot for the local community and it gives all of us more exposure and our parents are big supporters of our dancing. Also, we do some charitable events and feel good when we personally give back to the community, the best is that we get to have everyone one else around us cheering us on for a good cause. We love dancing and having fun with our dance family! "

The Singh Family Left (Paul, Prasanna, Anita and Priya) Anita & Paul are Caribbean business owners here in Orlando, FL that have been giving back and supporting our Caribbean community! 

P.S. Freight Systems Family

For all your shipping needs, please visit on Facebook @PS Caribbean Freight Systems/Shop2Go or visit their website at www.psfreightsys.com? 

Written by Priya and Prasanna Singh 

Karibbean Girls who stands in her Truth...her Dancing...her Music.....and her Culture! 

KUOMagazine.com “Life’s Renewal”

Change Requires Work

Article Published September/October 2015 issue of KUOMagazine.com

Written by Alison De Souza, KUOMagazine contributing writer & Life Coach

Have you ever wondered why some people never change? Have you ever wondered why you cannot/don't change? Well, that is because change requires work. Let's look at it from another perspective. For example, you wet yourself, you sit in it because it is warm and eventually you become comfortable sitting in it and it will eventually dry. You get used to the smell, you ignore the stain that has now been made because you are comfortable and it is familiar. But the moment you decide I no longer want to sit in this condition. Is where the work begins. 

You have to first recognize there is a need to change. You then have to get up, wash yourself of and change your clothes. All maybe simple actions but it is change none the less. Many do not change for the fear of leaving the familiar or they have become so comfortable with their condition they don't even realize there is a need to change or they think the problem is with everyone else. Some even go as far as to recognize there is a need to change but over think so much they have thought themselves out of making the change.

But in life everything has to change or else it will die. You are not the person you were seven years ago. Your hair, your nails, your skin has all changed over the space of seven years. Everything moves, everything grows if it doesn't it become stale, stagnant and stinks. That manifests itself in people as bitterness, envy, jealousy sickness and as unforgiveness.

Keep moving, keep changing as that is the only way you will grow. Because Change Requires Work!

Written by Alison De Souza, KUOMagazine Contributing Writer & Life Coach

To connect with Alison on Facebook @alisondesouzalifecoach, Twitter @AllieDesouza or email her at alisonjdesouza@gmail.com