KITCHEN TREASURES WORKSHOP – REVIEW April 2012

Organisation
After rushing around for a few weeks to ensure I had all the ingredients the day had finally come April 29, struggling down the stairs with heavy bags as if I have done shopping for the month. The ingredients and utensils where spread out over one large table, as if we were going to have a feast.

The guests made use of the notebook that I only devised the night before with each page representing each workshop. In addition guests were given info leaflets about their presentation.

Presenters
The group seemed quieter than the previous workshop, paying deep attention to the presenters and focusing on following the instructions so that they could get the right consistency. To get the guest warmed up I started with the honey and oatmeal scrub which was good enough to spread on Hardo bread.

Next the top 10 ingredients were lined up so that Lola Curls (http://www.lolascurls.com/) could explain each benefit in full view – with the first of course being Water. She even had panthenol which I have never seen or used before. Panthenol is derived from vitamin B5, it is found in shampoos and conditioners as it is good for hair repair and retaining moisturiser. Lola loves Rhassaul Clay but I have never used it before, so she gave me some to try  – but I have used Bentonite clay.

I was delighted to have on board Afiya who wowed us with Herbal infusions of chickweed, nettle, lavender and horsetail. If you had not of known what to do with herbs before apart from cooking with them  – then here is an addition.   When I got home I put my herbal infusion rinse on the window sill – waiting for the sunshine (typical British summer) to change the compositions so that I can use as a hair rinse.

The loverly Ska has been a distributor of Forever Living products for many years and her passion for aloe vera showed in her presentation, as we found out that there are so benefits and uses. She even had a competition – but i had not chance in winning as I forgot to give her my comp slip. But I was giving some of the aloe toothpaste which is very nice and u don’t have to use too much – so will definately be ordering some more.

Naprika Stacey delivered Henna and we turned into mixtresses, I didn’t know that there were so many different types and you had to be careful to ensure that they were BAQ (body art quality). Hope I don’t have to wait for Naprika to start her own mobile Henna Business before I try my first Henna experience. Naprika has various utube videos about Henna - check out utube review of her first KT experience.

http://youtu.be/7c4sX36NbO0

After making several more products such as Shea moisturisers, salt scubs and faccial masks it was coming towards the end of the day – so onto Competition time.

This time we had 3 winners for the competition – because at the last workshop there were so many good branding and creative descriptions – that I still have the papers– and NO it was not a fix – but Crystal Afro ( http://unitedkinkdom.blogspot.co.uk/ )seems to have a stream of luck at events lately as one of the winners of the Shea Body Smothers.

All the presenters delivered outstanding instructions and information about their subject. It was truly a School of Natural Education– it was a long day but the sun came out as we were leaving.

We only have up to 15  guest for the workshops – so if your interested in the next Kitchen Treasures organised then please email info@thecalabashhub.com

NB: our kitchen Treasures workshop is designed for people to intake knowledge and have fun –  we do not say that our mixtures are cures or potions. We always inform our guests that they should try a sample size on their skin/hair first before making a large quantity.

THE ORIGINS OF THE AFRO COMB  – PROJECT

On Saturday 28^th April, 2012 –  I took part in the Afro Comb Day which was co organised by Crystal aka Crystal Afro of United Kinkdom Blog. http://unitedkinkdom.blogspot.co.uk/ . It was held at The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaelology in London.

The Afro Comb Day is part of a larger project called Origins of the Afro Comb which is a shared project between the FitzwilliamMuseum, the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge, and the PetrieMuseum. The oldest combs can be dated back as far as the 14^thcentury in Ancient Egypt which was made of natural material such as wood, ivory, bamboo and even bone. We were given a tour of the museum and a talk about the oldest combs by project manager Sally-Ann.

I was privileged to be part of the focus group which was led by Crystal who led an open discussion which was recorded for future footage to be incorporated into the project. It was a nice relaxed atmosphere that was attended by majority UK natural sisters which I was fortunate to know – Belinda, Stacey, Angel, Fola, Keisha, Leila.

We were all given the opportunity to share our experiences that we had with afro combs, which combs we were familiar with, the era and their meaning. On the table was a selection of Afro Combs which we were asked to bring our favourite or not so favourite. There was the Fan comb, metal, black fist comb –brought back memories from the highlights during the American Civil rights movement and for the younger generation status.

I was asked about my combs that I brought whilst I was in Ghana. I like wooden comb because of the carved workmanship and their cultural meanings due to the Sankofa bird carved at the top.  The large comb is an ornament which has 2 carved ornate designs incorporated into the handle – the twisted knot for unity and the fertility doll representing puberty. I do have larger combs at home but as I had to takeLondontransport I thought it would be safer otherwise because if something had happened to my combs the day would have turned out to be called – The Vex Comb Day.

After the group discussion I was interviewed by journalist Felicity who asked questions about by knowledge and I spoke of the conscious and cultural side as how they are not just looked at as part of a tool. There is a wealth of knowledge within one small museum that we must hold on to for restoration and purpose This was made evident in the film 400years without a comb written by Morris  – which we screened last year as part of  Respect The Fro

Further planned events taking place in Cambridge this year are:
16^th June, Introduction to African hair combs – 2-4pm
11^th August, From Roots to Relaxers  - 2-4pm

Workshops are FREE but booking essential, tele 01223 332904 or email fitzmuseum-education@lists.cam.ac

If anyone is interested in taking part in the Origins of the Afro Comb in conjuction to the leading up to the july 2013 exhibition contact Sally-Ann Ashton on 0122 332905 or email SA337@cam.ac.uk or Crystal on crystalafro@hotmail.co.uk

KWANZAA

Kwanza is a week long Pan African holiday/festivity of civilizing reaffirmation, honouring the culture and traditions people of African origin and their descendants worldwide.  It falls between December 26 and January 1 each year.

It has an explicit ideology, customs and codes which are associated with the communal and spiritual needs of African people. There are moral and ethical values that emphasize and focus on a clear purpose to support the cooperative self concept as a populace, respect our past, assess our present and commit ourselves to a fuller, more abundant prospect. The rationale of Kwanzaa is to bring everybody together in celebration of their black culture and to live by using 7 guided principals of African culture as a beacon for life all year round. It asserts no ties with any religion. The seven principles of Kwanzaa are: unity; self-determination; collective work and responsibility; co-operative economics; purpose; creativity; and faith.

What does the word Kwanzaa mean?

Kwanzaa, means “first fruits of the harvest” in the African tongue Swahili, has gained tremendous acceptance. The selection of Swahili, an East African language, mirrors its position as a representation of Pan-Africanism, chiefly in the 1960′s, although most African-Americans have West African descent. An extra “a” was added to “Kwanza” in order to make it a seven lettered word.

When was it first celebrated and why?

Kwanzaa was first celebrated in December 1966 and January 1967. The holiday was proposed by graduate student Maulana Karenga as a graduate student  distressed by the 1965 riots in Los Angeles’ Watts area, determined that African-Americans needed a yearly event to commemorate their disparities rather than the melting pot. His aim was to give those of African descent a holiday to celebrate their own cultural heritage and the key values of family and community. It is one of the fasted-growing holidays in the history of the world. It is now estimated that about 13 percent of Africans in the Diaspora (nearly five million people) celebrate the festival in some way. It is important to learn about Kwanzaa as it was created with a specific purpose, of protecting our Cultures and Traditions. Not a spiritual holiday, Kwanzaa is, somewhat a seven-day merriment that begins on Dec 26 and is carried on through Jan 1st.

What do people do during Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa consists of a week of celebrations, which ends with a feast and the exchange of gifts. During the celebrations, candles are lit and libations are poured. A libation is the name given to a ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a god. During Kwanzaa, a wooden unity cup or calabash bowl is used to pour the libations. A Kwanzaa ceremony often also includes performance of music and drumming, a reflection on the Pan-African colors of red, green and black and a discussion of some aspect of African history. Women often wear brightly colored traditional clothing. Some cultural organizations hold special exhibitions of African influenced art or performances during the period of the celebration.

THE SEVEN PRINCIPALS OF KWANZAA: People who commemorate Kwanzaa hope to support the black community by sticking to seven guiding principles, designated by words from the Swahili language.

UMOJA (OO-MO-JAH) Unity.

The importance of togetherness for the family and the community in order to be productive and to survive. To put differences aside as they divide and destroy. On this day, we pledge to strive for — and to maintain — unity in the family, in the community, in the nation that we have helped to build, and with our PEOPLE.

“I am because We are.”

KUJICHAGULIA (KOO-GEE-CHA-GOO-LEE-YAH) Self-Determination

Requires that we define our common interests and make decisions and choices that are in the best interest of ourselves, family and community. To be clear what we are fighting for. On this day, we pledge to define ourselves, to NAME ourselves, to create for ourselves, and to speak for ourselves, instead of being defined, named by, created for and spoken for by others. On this day we design for ourselves a positive future and then vow to make that prophecy — that DREAM — a self-fulfilling one.

UJIMA (OO-GEE-MAH) Collective Work and Responsibility

To remind us of our obligation to the past, present and future, and that we have a role to perform in the community, society, and world. Participate in the fight for liberation. All obliged to play a role and or face the raft of our ancestors who sacrificed their lives. On this day we celebrate working together in the community to help others.. We pledge to rebuild our communities and to help our people solve our own problems by working together to do it.

If one is not free then all is not free.

UJAMAA (OO-JAH-MAH) Cooperative economics

To emphasizes our collective economic strength and be encouraged to meet common requirements through mutual support. To put money into our businesses; build institutions, investment and make personal sacrifice. On this day of we pledge to develop our own businesses and to support them, to maintain shops, stores and industry that contribute to the well-being of our community.

NIA (NEE-YAH) Purpose

To encourage us to look within ourselves and to set personal/individual goals that are beneficial to the community. On this day, we pledge to build and develop our communities, our schools and our families. We also pledge to provide a strong communal foundation from which our children can develop into strong and productive people.

If it’s not worth dying for then is it worth living for.

KUUMBA (KOO-OOM-BAH) Creativity

To make use of our creative and artistic energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community. To channel creative strength to nation building then celebrate then liberate. On this day, we pledge to do whatever we can to make our communities and homes more beautiful and better than we found them. We also pledge to use our creative talents and energies to improve young minds and hearts.

IMANI (EE-MAH-NEE) Faith

As spiritual and natural people to regain faith, self-worth and confidence in ourselves and our leaders’ ability to succeed and triumph in the righteous victory of struggle. To focus on honouring the best of customs our traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive for a higher level of life for humankind. On this day, the beginning of the New Year we pledge to believe with all our hearts and minds in our people, our parents, our good and dedicated teachers and leaders, and in the greater good of the work we do with and for one another, for the community and for the PEOPLE.

Yenu iwe na heri – Have a happy and fruitful Kwanzaa

I was honoured to be asked by Debrose founder of Natural November  http://www.naturalnovember.com/#! to present a headwrap workshop. Although the workshop was only for one hour I was impressed by the enthusiam of all participants to lean quick,  style creations, and how they enjoyed the workshop.

The African Centre turned into a true African  market on a Sunday – with stall vendors and exhibitors displaying their entrepreneurship of home-made products, artwork, apparell, accessories, adornments, books, mosaic, natural juices. Its was great catching up with Ebony of  Naturally Sexy, The Hairoine, Belinda of BeUnique,  Zola & Kepani of Greenshack Productions, Naturally Nubian, Proud to be African Clothing, Synergy Soul Designs, Qemamu and many more. I also made some new friends who had their stall – Kawaii Adornment – next to me – they gave me jokes throughout the event that helped me with my energy levels, cos i was so tired.  Thanks to all supporters who purchased shea butter and headwraps and to the sisters who i met at The headwrap workshop at Battersea Library during BHM who each bought an African Print Bag.

At each end of the main hall were seminars on  wholistic health, body or hair care, hair braiding, which were informative and educational from professional speakers throughout the whole day back to back.  Although I was busy with the stall, I did eventurally get to hear some of Leah Salmon Wholefoods and Nature presentation, inspired words about our lifestyle and  how she began her raw food journey. The venue was jam packed as visitors  congregated and squeezed into a space at each end of the hall to listen to the main speakers.

There always come a time when the curtains  have to close and I walked out of the African Centre slowly ‘cos my foot was burning from standing for 7hrs (why didnt i stay sitting on the chair).

Big warm blessing to Debrose on her efforts to make her first event a successful one. Look forward to Natural November 2012

The Calabash Hub

RESPECT THE ‘FRO part2

A big thank you to all the brothers and sisters who supported RESPECT THE ‘FRO part 2. It was a pleasure to network and hear the guest journeys.  Our guest panel Regina Kimbell, Crystal Afro and Pelumi really shone on the stage as they discussed the aspects of the documentary My Nappy Roots and shared healthy hair care tips. Here are a few pictures.

MY NAPPY ROOTS

GUEST PANEL – PELUMI, REGINA & CRYSTAL

OUR GUESTS

I LOVE AFRO

 INTERNATIONAL HAIRITAGE MONTH – BIGGER AND WISER NEXT YEAR

BLESS

THE CALABASH HUB

My Nappy ROOTS will tell its story largely through the voices people who were, and are, instrumental in the changes that have influenced the cultural images, aesthetics and behavior of Black Americans.  Film makers Regina Kimbell and Jay Bluemke assembles a world-class line-up of celebrities, Historians, authors, journalists, comedians, stylists and barbers, industry business icons, professional, and personal accounts on their Black hair journey. 

This liberation is not only captured on film but experienced from beginning to end with 

My Nappy ROOTS:  A Journey Through Black Hair-itage.

A panel discussion with film director Regina Kimbell and guests will follow the screening

Join the Debate!

On Saturday 27^th August it was all about the kinks and curls to Respect The Fro at COTTONS Caribbean Restaurant. During the meet and greet guests where shown a slide show of images of a selection of inspired and created hair styles with braids, locks, and natural kinks which may inspire themselves to create their own.

SCREENING   -    The screening of the documentary  400 Years Without A Comb  was written by Dr Willie L. Morrow which was inspired by his book of the same name.  The film shows the effect and denial of sufficient hair care tools had on African slaves in America.  It also locates the origin of the good hair/bad hair argument in the days of and following slavery, through the evolution of the social class system.  DISCUSSIONS – After the screening a panel discussion was led by Charmaine of  http://www.blackhistorystudies.com/ and Crystal aka Crystal Afo  http://unitedkinkdom.blogspot.com/     They touched on the historical, emotional and social aspect of the documentary and how opinions of natural hair, identity and perceptions of beauty can determine how one portrays self.

TESTIMONIES – We were blessed to have a testimony from Belinda who had done the BC (Big Chop) in 2009. She presented for the first time to an audience about her hair journey, hair care techniques and product information. She expressed in her dialogue the journey she endeavoured in order to maintain her crowning glory. She went from being a product junky to experimenting and knowing what ingredients was good for her natural hair maintenance. She silenced the myth that natural hair does grow with tender love and care the healthy way, to which she ended her testimony with ‘Your Hair Is Your Crown, Where It Like A Queen’. The feedback was positive and empowered and refreshed sisters who were in the transition stages. Belinda has formulated her own hair care product range to which she hopes to sell her homemade Mango Twist to all natural beauties in the near future. She showcases her journey through her blog http://www.4nappiness4eva.blogspot.com/

POETRY & ARTWORK – Cezanne is a self taught artist who also writes and performs her poetry. During her performance she used symbolic images for creative expression and explained the symbolism of her artwork the male and female pictures – Fruitfull Mind. Due to time constraints we did not get to enjoy much of Cezanne poetry – but hopefully at another event. Here paintings and poems can be purchased in print and her artwork is exhibited within the dinning area at Centreprise in Dalston, London.  http://www.cezannesart.co.uk/home

LUNCH - A buffet lunch was provided by Cottons http://cottons-restaurant.co.uk/  whilst we listened to tunes of Aretha Franklyn which was our signature album for the event – songs such as Respect and Natural Woman.  During such time Stall Holders: Evelyn Products, Shangwe, Cezanne, Greenshack Productions, LEKAN P’ship, Lavel, Naturally Nubian and The Calabash Hub were selling products and merchandise.

PRESENTATION by Kapeni of Greenshack Productions who wrote Peter Sankofa and The Family Afro. Kapeni read extracts from the book and explained why it was important for his family and children to have books that represent positive children’s imagery and symbolism of black people, that will raise their confidence and a since of pride within their life. Kapeni also led us into a story to which the guests had to use their imaginations to say a sentence before passing the mic in order to create the full story. Prizes were given to the guests who were the most creative. During the event his wife Zola maintained the stall selling books, T-shirts, badges, African symbols, candles and essential oils. http://www.greenshackproductions.com/

PRODUCT SWAP – A table was laid out for the product swap for those who bought items that maybe useful for others –  as someone’s junk is another persons treasure. As you can see Crystal left with a smile on her face.

 HAIR SHOW – The last activity was a hair showcase where our guests had to write on a style card and explain how long they had been natural, their hairstyle and a natural beauty quote or extract that was persona or to empower other guests -  Prizes were given for imagination an thoughtfulness.

I would like to give thanks to all the guests, performers, stall holders, sisters and brothers who came and supported  The Calabash Hub and Naturally Nubian http://naturallynubian01.blogspot.com/with some positive vibes as we all departed   Respecting The ‘Fro

Bless, Sister E – THE CALABASH HUB