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TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2013 ISSUE #02
TWITTNI©KMAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2013
ISSUE #02
O C T B E R 2 0 1 3 I S S U E # 0 2
welcome! My name is Nicholas Maharaj for those who don’t know me and are reading for the first time. I would like to first off, thank you for taking the time to read through the second issue of the twittnick magazine.
Secondly, thank you for your support. I’m pleased to announce that last months edition ranked in over 2,000 impressions. Without you, my projects aren’t possible. Therefore, want to acknowledge all my readers and supporters who definitely believe in the creativity that I put together.
For this issue, we have a whole lot of new individuals who I strongly believe need to be noticed for
the work that they put in on a daily basis. You will learn and read more in depth about each individual, who has a story that they would like to share with you. Also, you will find helpful tips that you can carry along with you throughout life.
For those who are currently featured in this Issue #02 for October 2013, I would like to tell you how thrilled I am to have you participating in this project. Without you, none of this couldn’t be possible. I would encourage those individuals who have talent and want it to be shared, to come forward and be featured.
I want others to have that chance to be acknowledge. One thing I’ve learned is that, it’s never about me. It’s about all of us. Together we can
inspire others, learn from one another, connect and change the world for the better.
I hope that you all have a safe and wonderful month. Today is October, 01, 2013. It’s never to late to start fresh. Consider today, a new day for you. Oh, and... Happy Halloween! Eat lots of candy!
TWITTNI©K
Sincerely,
Nicholas Maharaj
Magazine
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TEL: 1-800-8477 (TIPS)TEL: Anonymously
TEL: ConfidentiallyTEL: Crime Stoppers
WHAT IS CRIME STOPPERS ST. KITTS & NEVIS?Crime Stoppers St. Kitts & Nevis is a non-pro!t, tri-partied program between the community, media and law enforcement, whose goal is to provide a way for the public to CONFIDENTIALLY and ANONYMOUSLY share information on criminal activity and assist with the recovery of drugs, guns, and stolen property.
WHY USE CRIME STOPPERS ST. KITTS & NEVIS?Many crimes are left unsolved in the Federation due to the fear of repercussions from providing information to law enforcement. Crime Stoppers SKN is a CONFIDENTIAL and ANONYMOUS outlet where you can report crime without fear of identi!cation. You can make a di"erence!
HOW DOES CRIME STOPPERS WORK?If you would like to pass information on ANONYMOUSLY, you can do so by:
OVERSEAS BASED hotline 1-800-8477 (TIPS)
Our hotline and online web form are all encrypted and based OVERSEAS
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER,
14, 2013
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
DONT DRINK AND DRIVE.
STOP.
BULLY ING.
the twittnick magazine
DNR is a DJ that started off as a remixer about 7 years ago. A teen from Toronto who always had a passion for music decided to show his skills and passion.
Remixing everything from Reggae, Soca, Top 40, House, Hip-Hop, R&B and more. DNR has always and will always have top notch, top of the line remixes. Anyone who has heard a DNR remix has always been satisfied and impressed.
DNR later on moved to live mixing in about 2008, and since then DNR has played in many major club events and private parties.
DNR tries to keep his fans entertained, and never let them down. This is only the beginning for him, make sure to keep on a look out for more remixes and appearances!
A short interview with Devin from WISC.a passion for music.By @TwittNick
IN����������� ������������������ D’MIXW/ DNR
@DNRWISC
Sarah Bhairo is a 21 year old that is ready to take advantage of the many opportunities life has to give. She believes that there is great potential in every person to grow, create and change. She is also an advocate for a greener sustainable future and a citizen of the world.
Sarah is a 4th year student at York University majoring in Administrative Studies and specializing in Human Resources Management. She speaks two languages, English and French, of which English is her mother tongue. She was the Business and Investment writer for the Caribbean Xpress Newspaper. Sarah has a passion for researching current news, partaking in current trends, educating others on things she has learned about the changing world and making a difference in the world. After finishing school, Sarah aspires to make innovative changes in companies utilizing current and future trends, social media and research that she has conducted herself. Sarah has been part of Upscale Dance Academy ever since the age of 17. The group specializes in Bollywood, Chutney, Soca, Reggae and Hip Hop. Dance is one of Sarah’s
passions. She has performed at many shows, weddings and even on Slice’s hit show Rich Bride, Poor Bride. The group won award for the Top Chutney Dance Group at the 2012 Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards. Also, she competed in the Yorkfete Competition in which she partook in making her team achieve first place.
In addition to being a student, writer and a dancer, Sarah Bhairo has many roles and talents in society. She has expanded her view on the world and people through her involvement in many different organizations. These organizations include Hot Breads, Mississauga Marathon, EnergySmart, DECA, Tim Hortons, Price Chopper, Woodbine Mall, Ardene, Zellers, Vanier College, 30 Hour Famine, Active Mind and Body, Wal-mart, Future Shop, Plexxus, Groupe Dynamite, Babies ‘R’ Us and others.
In her free time Sarah chooses to spend time with friends and family, travel, experience new things, immerse herself in new and different cultures, indulge in great cuisine, meet new people, discuss pressing world issues, learn new things and watch mind twisting programs.
Meet Sarah.a woman who’s ready for an adventure.
TWITTNI©Kmagazine
@SHITSWAGGASAYS
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VICTORIA D.SOOKHOO
PATRICIA BUDHANpa! 28
@TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2013
remember����������� ������������������ me?����������� ������������������ my����������� ������������������ name����������� ������������������ is����������� ������������������ snow.i’m����������� ������������������ coming����������� ������������������ for����������� ������������������ you.
USE A GUN AND YOUR MOST LIKELY TO DIE FROM ONE
3 WAYS TO SUBMIT INFORMATION:
ONLINE: 222TIPS.COMCALL: 416-222-8477 or 1-800-222-8477
MOBILE: Text TOR plus your message to: 274637
“anonymous tips can prevent crimes before
they occur.”
Twittni©k Magazine
Download mobile app today on AppWorld for iPhone/BB/Android
Socially responsible, morally obligated.
There is no arguing that the massive growth of social based networking and media platforms have made it easier and more convenient than anytime in human history to communicate with one another.
In seconds a message can be transmitted from one side of the globe to the other and in the matter of minutes thousands upon thousand of people can read, respond to and share that message.
When a celebrity gets drunk and gets caught driving the paparazzi can have the picture of the arrest on the front page of gossip websites before the offender is even booked into a police station. In the world of entertainment, business, general information and gossip it really doesn’t matter if an image or a thought is seen, shared, responded to or “favorited” in minutes or hours.
But what about when a person’s life in on the line? It’s not minutes that mater. It’s seconds that count. So why in the world would you turn to Twitter of Facebook, Tumblr or Reddit to ask someone to call for help?
Think this is a rare incident? Well, it’s not. It happens far more often that most people would realize. In this case, the guy didn’t even ask anyone to call…he asked others to ReTweet. ReTweet? ReTweet for what? What would that possibly do to help? His excuse, later posted on Twitter was that he was on a bus leaving the station. So what? At least you were there!
“Please call an ambulance.” “I just got beat up, call the police.” “Wow a shooting just happened, this is nuts!”
Sure it’s easy to use your smart phone or mobile device to push the information out to the masses but how do you know your message is going to be seen? How do you know that someone else will actually do that for you? Simple answer…you don’t.
Think the police, fire and ambulance personnel have nothing better to do than simply look through the millions of pieces of information for your call for help? I can tell you, they don’t. Some will boast that they can or they do, but get real…it simply can’t happen in such a way that the seconds that are needed are there.
How much longer do you think it takes a to open the application (if it’s not already open), type the message and send it compared to pressing your phone button and hitting 9-1-1?
At least that way you know your message is being received. You can answer any questions that may be important or necessary, or just say, “I’m on a but that just pulled out of Downsview and I say an old guy laying on the platform floor. I think he needs an ambulance.” There…that’s not too hard is it?
Maybe some people have become so conditioned that the only way they can communicate is with their thumbs and a digital interface. The mere thought of using their words in a ‘face-to-face’ scares the life out of them. I hope that’s not you.
If for no other reason than to be socially responsible, please, when you think someone needs help or you need help, dial the number that is there to help. 911. Not an emergency? Then in Toronto 416-808-2222 will get you where you need to be. Save the social posts for those things that don’t have life or death consequences.
To me, it’s a moral obligation to help my fellow man, woman or child. Socially responsible,
Written By:Tim Burrows
you are now entering FOXPACK region
turn the page
TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE
behind the scenes of a hip-hoprecording artist Ryan Atwal
By @TwittNick
UNFAITHFUL DREAMS NOW AVAILABLE.
Ryan Atwal known as "Epic" from FoxPack is a hip-hop recording
artist born in Detroit, Michigan. He began listening to hip-hop at the age
of 8 which his cousin named Ronnie introduced him to. Within a year,
Ryan began to write his own lyrics. "With me going through everything I
did from being on the streets, ex-girlfriends cheating, losing a lot of
people that I loved, I knew that I could take all my pain and emotions and
put them into a song to release everything off my chest."
At that point Ryan realized that a lot of people go through what he
did and that he can make relatable music for them to get through the day
and put a smile on their faces. "I remember first coming music videos
from an i-phone camera and doing freestyles on webcam. Eventually, I
worked my way up to HD music videos and recently dropped my debut
mixtape "Unfaithful Dreams." The album blew up all over social media
and the support was outrageous.
Ryan has his own record label called FoxPack Heatwave which is
signed under Heatwave Entertainment. A group that consist of 5 artists
that are the most upcoming talented rappers from Brampton, Ontario.
"Everyone has their own sound and message they present." Ryan said.
Ryan's music believes that his music can impact others life and
change the way we certain things. With more exclusive projects
underway, he's not ready to give up. Look out for Unfaithful Dreams 2
coming Summer 2014.
EPIC
@EPICFOXPACK
Amrit known as GTech, 22, is an aspiring Hip-hop recording artist under the Hip-hop record label Fox Pack, who currently resides in Brampton, Ontario. He was born and raised in Scarborough, but moved to Brampton at the age of 15.
GTech started writing lyrics at the young age of 10, started performing at the age of 11, and started recording his music at the age of 15. Highly influenced by Eminem’s music at a young age, he was the prime reason why GTech started writing lyrics and recording music.
Amrit currently studies Child and Youth Work at Sheridan College. His future is dedicated to becoming a Child and Youth Worker. But his dream is to become a rapper in the Hip-Hop industry, and to carve a name for himself everyone will recognize.
Regardless if he becomes a rapper or a Child and Youth Worker, his ambitions will guide him through his success.
Meet Amrit from FOXPACKaspiring recording artist
By @TwittNick
UNFAITHFUL DREAMS 2 COMING SOON
GTECH @OFFICIALGTECH
Beauty queen Victoria Sookhoo, 23 has been an inspiration to her community and many pageant organizations. Born and raised in queens new York, with 100% Trinidadian blood, Victoria has been contributing to her west Indian community of Richmond Hill Queens.
Victoria is currently a College student, studying Psychology and Speech Communications. She has been motivating herself and many other young females in pageantry. "Competing in pageants brings up self esteem, beauty, and intelligence." Says the Beauty Queen.
At 15, she began her pageant journey. She won her first title in 2011 where she competed for a prestigious organization, SPA Productions USA. Victoria
also won the title as MISS INDO-CARIBBEAN NATIONAL 2011. "My year as national queen was the best year of my life." Victoria attended fashion shows along with her pageant sisters, participated in the annual Pagwah Parade, donated toys to the kids at the north shore LIJ hospital for the holidays, and also attended other pageants in supporting young ladies in competition. Victoria has won as CARICOM QUEEN in 2012 and at the same time was double crowned as MISS PHOTOGENIC SUPREME.
Her journey doesn't end here. She continues her passion in pageantry and hopes she goes far. With her positive attitude, beauty, grace and intelligence she hopes to become MISS USA one day.
“Victoria is a wonderful woman who deserves to be recognized for her strong dedication in beauty. Read more about the dream to hopefully become Miss USA one day. She will get there. But eventually. I believe in her. Do you?”@TwittNick
behind the scenes of a beauty queen.VICTORIA SOOKHOO.By @TwittNick
SPECIAL EDITION
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS w/ FREDDY KRUGER.
KNOW YOUR SURROUNDINGS. BE AWARE OF WHAT IS AROUND
YOU AT ALL TIMES.
STAY CLOSE TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
STAY ON THE SIDEWALK AND OFF ROADS. ALLOW VEHICLES TO PASS SAFELY.
STAY IN GROUPS. DON’T WANDER OFF ALONE.
COSTUMES ARE MEANT TO BE SEEN. NOT BE HIDDEN. DON’T LET MASKS BLOCK THE EYES.
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT. AVOID OPEN CANDIES.
DON’T FALL ASLEEP.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
1.2.3. Freddy is coming for you...
How does a 22 year old in a major metropolitan North American city come to embrace social media in the fight against crime? This is the story of one such kid who learned from one police officer the true value of creating relationships with technology and how one person can, in turn, use his own voice to spread messages of public safety, responsibility, and what it means to be a participatory citizen. His name is...
Twittni©k@
CREATOR / DESIGNER
CONNECTED COPS INTERVIEWwith Toronto’s crime fighter.By Laura Stevens
Back in November 2009, Police Constable Scott Mills, who was then serving as Crime Stoppers Youth Officer for the Toronto Police, made a presentation at North Albion Collegiate Institute. His message inspired me because one could sense that he was genuine. Afterward, I approached him about community opportunities, offering to lend a hand in engaging youths in whatever capacity I could.
At the time, I had little knowledge about social media. Constable Mills encouraged me to set-up Twitter account for outreach purposes and to widen my network into
the community. Within a few days, I learned the intricacies of Twitter.
I myself did not know about Crime Stoppers nor its purpose. With some research, it became obvious that Crime Stoppers had a valuable purpose. I began attending community events with Constable Mills, video recording, tweeting, Face-booking and even editing. I entered a world where I saw how the police interacted with the community it served—it was positive and it was encouraging.
As my contact with the Toronto Police grew, I eventually met TAVIS coordinator, Sgt. Jeff Pearson whose TAVIS Facebook page was created so that the public could become familiar with the work that he and his TAVIS colleagues did. TAVIS, which stands for Toronto Anti-Intervention Strategy, is a specialized group of officers who are deployed into selected communities considered to be the most vulnerable to incidents of violent crimes. For its 2011 campaign, TAVIS will be present in the communities of Weston-Lawrence (12Division) and Brimley Eglinton (43Division).
Toronto Anti-Violence Intervention Strategy (TAVIS) means more officers and lots of community involvement in creating stronger neighborhoods. Community mobilization is a way to bring the neighborhood – residents, businesses, community and government services, and the police – together to plan and carry out activities that will resolve crime and safety issues.
A lot of youth question my association with crime prevention. I truly believe that this is the right thing to do. Public education about Crime Stoppers is the key to addressing the potential for
future incidents such as school shootings, gun violence, gangs, and drugs. If greater numbers of people were aware of the program, we could be building a much more secure place to live.
I remember telling Carmen Villidar from Digital Journal, “If every police officer was as nice and reasonable like Mills, I think every youth would be engaged in programs such as BMX Riding, Legal Graffiti Art and removal and other Crime Stoppers events. Scott and my efforts to fight crime are the reasons why I want to be a Police Officer one day.”
The homicide of my former schoolmate, Courtney Facey, remains a daily and constant reminder of why I want to connect the public with Crime Stoppers. Any caring person must take a stand against crime and not let criminals get away with destroying what is good about our society.
Receiving acknowledgement as the Crime Stoppers Student of the Year at the 15th Annual Chief of Police dinner in Toronto, doesn’t mean it’s over.
TEXT ‘TOR” PLUS YOUR MESSAGE TO 274637 ANON. FROM YOUR MOBILE DEVICE TO PREVENT OR SOLVE CRIMES IN TORONTO. ALL IT TAKES IS ONE TIP TO SAVE A LIFE TODAY.
Follow @TwittNick on Twitter.I’m a 22 year old student who goes to college, tweet and educate the public about Crime Stoppers Internationally. I believe that it just takes one tweet to prevent a tragic crime.
THETWITTNICK.WORDPRESS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/TWITTNICKYOUTUBE.COM/TWITTNICK
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ARO
OJ
AROOJ
The journey begins when you pick up the pencil
Her name is Arooj Arooj. Yes, her first and last name are the same. She is a self-taught aspiring artist.
Arooj started drawing at the age of 11. She was obsessed with manga, anime, that sort of stuff. Her journey began by sitting in front of the mirror for hours trying to draw her own face.
Arooj’s first portrait was Angelina Jolie which at the time looked amazing but now that she looks back on it...not so much. But it’s true what they say, practice makes perfect. She kept practicing. Her first real drawing was of Eminem in 2011 and she’s come a long way since then. “Art is all about time and patience. Skill develops over the amount of time you are willing to spend trying to better yourself and finding the techniques which work for you.”
Arooj has over 250 bottles of acrylic paint but she has never been able to create a decent painting. “Graphite and charcoal, black and white drawings in other words, seem to be my calling as well as white pencil on black paper, and my favorite – painting my room walls. It’s amazing to look at a blank sheet of paper and realizing that the entire world is at your fingertips and that blank piece of paper can be anything you want it to be. When people ask me what career I want to go into I always say something along the lines of pharmacist, teacher, environmental specialist.”
Art is going to be something that Arooj will do on the side. But she always wonders to herself, “Why? Why aren’t I going into something art related? To be honest, I don’t know the answer. I’ll be sitting in a physics or biology class and be doodling my heart away yet I don’t aim on pursuing a career in art. I guess my goal is to keep art as a backup so
that I know there will always be something that I love doing on the side if my original career fails.”
Somehow, in the future, she believes she’ll end up just doodling her heart out again. There’s a famous quotation which states “Art is never finished, only abandoned” –Davinci (yes, the famous Davinci, creator of Mona Lisa). This is her favorite quote because it is, bluntly. Just the plain old truth. You can take a piece of art and work on it forever and keep adding on to it, more details, more shading, yet it will never be finished. “I use this quote as a motivation to keep adding to my art, to always keep going even if I think it’s good enough or finished yet I know I can still add more to it.”
Some of her other passions beside art, are reading, listening to Linkin Park, playing with her cat, and attempting to cook.
“Pick up a pencil. You’ll be amazed at what you can do. The world is full of endless possibilities so take full advantage of them.” - Arooj Arooj
By @TwittNick
Patricia Budhan, 22, from Queens, New York is an aspiring Cardiologist. She is a full-time and a part-time worker. She currently attends Hofstra University, majoring in Biology and minoring in Psychology.
Patricia has done a lot of volunteer work in her community, specifically in health care facilities. For the past couple of summers, she has volunteered in her mothers hospital and visited her unit which is Hospice, for terminally for ill patients. "It was by far the hardest thing to see. But to be able to be there to make those patients smile and laugh knowing that their days were numbered was so special to both her and mother. Patricia has been raised by amazing parents who have taught her always to help people in need. And that is something I have seen her parents do all her life.
"I am interested in Cardiology because my father has had two open heart surgeries which resulted in a mitral Valve Replacement and last month he received a Pacemaker. I have always loved to study the heart. After all it is the most vital organ. This year I was able to intern and work under one of the most accomplished physicians in the country. It is a privilege to be able to help people but also learn so much.
Although her education comes first, Patricia is also an aspiring model. She love to be in front of the camera and express myself. It is an amazing art and passion of hers. "It makes me feel confident and happy and I love to help young women feel the same way. I hope that in my life I can help, impact and change people's lives. I want to leave this world knowing that I have done all I could have to make a positive difference in as many lives as I could have."
“Our greatest happiness does not depend on the condition of life in which chance has placed us, but is always the result of a good conscience, good health, occupation, and freedom in all just pursuits.”– Thomas Jefferson
Twittni©k Magazine
NEERA ORILALLOCTOBER 2013
My name is Neera Orilall. I am eighteen, soon to be nineteen in November and currently in my last year at George Brown College, studying to become a successful event planner. Usually when someone asks me what I’m taking in college and I say, “event planning”, I always get the same question over and over. “But why event planning? I wouldn’t have thought of that!” My response to that is always the same. “I love helping people, no matter what kind of situation it is. In any event, seeing that happy smile on my clients’ face is probably one of the best feelings in the world, because you know that you are the reason for that smile.”
Growing up, I was known as the most artistic and creative child both, in the family and in school. Whenever there was a family event such as a birthday, wedding or anniversary, I was their organizer and decorator! I love it! I guess it just grew on me as I got older and I eventually started thinking about my future at a young age. My parents have always told me to go after what I want and never lose sight. So far, I have followed my dreams. I did co-op in high school for wedding company called Leave It To Us Weddings Inc, and started from the basics; answering phone calls, filing, fax, etc. It was all just baby steps to get to where I wanted to be. I just need to be patient. While working with my boss, she was actually my role model. I watched her take on so much situations, both good and bad plus deal with her personal life, yet still be calm about everything. From her, I learned that you need to able to solve problems right on the spot when dealing with clients, and for those who know me, know that I am that person they can run to for help. Even to random strangers, if I see something wrong, it’s just an instinct to go up to him/her and ask if they are alright. Now that I’m in college, it’s a different environment, it’s more opened to the work field, you meet new and completely different people with different personalities. It’s an amazing feeling and experience. However, there are down falls to being an event planner, it’s not always all fun and joy. Being an event planner comes with big responsibly and team work. Not everything may run as smoothly as you plan it to be, there are always bumps along the way. The main key is to keep calm and think positively.
Today, I work at a banquet hall in both Brampton and Markham as a decorist and waitress. I love what I do! I love learning about new things every day to become a better and a successful event planner. When I first thought about being an event planner, I wanted to just do conference and birthdays but now, I’m more interested in doing weddings specifically. There is a quote a live by, “In order to be irreplaceable, one must be different.” The reason why I live by this quote is because I want to be different. I want to stand out from everyone else. I want to be that person or event planner that cannot be forgotten. I want people to know me for the work that I do and I will do whatever it takes to be that person.
A part from school, I do a bit of modeling. I secretly have a passion for modeling but I’m slowly taking baby steps for that as well. I’m currently a part of OHM Weddings Fashion Show which is in January 2013 and I have modeled for my currently job’s newspaper. I also do still life drawing for as long as I can remember along with baking. I’m a very outgoing person and love making new friends. I have tried to make the best of my life and take advantage of all the opportunities that I can find to become that irreplaceable person and follow my dreams.
In order to be irreplaceable, one must be different.
SPECIAL EDITION
3vent����������� ������������������ planner.
NEERA����������� ������������������ ORILALL
Miss Ruby 2013 - Universal Precious Nikkita Khan, 19, born
and raised in Guyana, but moved to the US as a child. Currently she attends college for psychology because she enjoys giving help to individuals who need it. In the future, she hopes to obtain not only my PhD in psychology, but also in medicine.
Nikkita is also an aspiring model and dancer. She has been dancing and modeling since age 14. Nikkita has competed in many pageants and dance competitions. “I now hold the title of “Miss Ruby” for the Miss Universal Precious Gems of America pageant 2013. I was also crowned Miss Indo-Caribbean Galaxy 2011 and 1st runner up of the Miss Indo-Caribbean Federation 2013.”
I attend Sanasani Dance Academy which is located in Queens, NY. Along with all this, she was fortunate enough to work with many community leaders such as the congressman of NYC and many
other celebrities. Nikkita got the chance to donate toys to the children of the Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center in Long Island during Christmas and she hope to do it again this year. “I enjoy being part of events throughout my community especially the ones that gives back to the community. I also attend various events where I speak to children about self confidence and education. I see myself as a role model for young women. I try my best to inspire them and encourage everyone to follow their dreams.”
Nikkita happens to be a huge animal lover. Her platform is animal abuse and I love encouraging people to speak up against for animal cruelty. Usually, she volunteers at local animal shelters. “When I’m not busy attending school or being a beauty queen, I enjoy making you tube sketches and skits during my free time. I always wanted to be an actor so I find making funny videos and
posting them to you tube is an easy way to share my ideas with friends and family. I also play the guitar and piano. Besides dancing, photography happens to be one of my other passions.”
She has decided to make this her part time job and it has been going quite well over the past two years. In addition, she loves traveling to different places and trying new types of food. I
In all words, Nikkita is very grateful for every opportunity that she has been blessed with, and everyone who has shown support towards her. “I try my best to give back to my community and help others reach their goals. I hope I can be an inspiration to everyone out there, especially to the younger generation. I don’t know what the future holds for me but I will always strive to achieve more and help others see that with hard work, anything is capable.”
NIKKITA KHAN
TWITTNICK MAGAZINE
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JANKI
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TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE
SITA DESAI
the future of law enforcementSOFIJA THEODORUBy @TwittNick
Sofia Theodoru is a Police Foundations student at Humber College. She recently represented Humber, at the community and social services program at Toronto Police 12 division community BBQ.
Sofija is committed to getting the students in her program more involved with the community and law enforcement. "I find it important when pursuing law enforcement to get really involved in the region you are interested in. What I mean is by participating at events or volunteering . She has volunteered for children's breakfast club and promoted the awareness of bicycle safety.
Growing up in Toronto, she's aware of her surroundings enough to navigate throughout the city. "I know the good and the bad. I've seen the pretty and the ugly. Even more so being in the Police Foundations program, has opened up doors for me in Humber College, community and social services section."
Currently, Sofija is working on an idea with her uncle who is a senior officer with the Toronto Police Services. This project is an idea to improve the quality of customer service and public relations within the force and the community. "He has really inspired me to find pride in helping others in the city that I live in."
Sofija has good faith that in her future and long term goals that she will make sure she helps at least one person a day and get involved with the city and even greater the Toronto police service.
@SOFIJALOREN
From being the kid that just goes to school and gets picked on by the others because he wants to do something nobody approves him of doing, to someone now who truly has his mind set and is setting out future goals for himself. Cody is a student of J Clarke. Richardson Collegiate, who is focusing on his education to find out what he really wants to become in the future.
“There is always one thing I always wanted to do, that is being apart of music. Ever since I was 9 or 10, my cousins were already going in the music industry as DJ's. Since I am really inspired by them, I also wanted to take part, but I wanted to be different. Not becoming a DJ, but something a part of music. In grade 6, I met someone who was looking to be a rapper.
One day, he came to my house and played one of his songs for me and left me thinking that night. I wanted to become a rapper for once so I can get a chance to be in music like I always did. Around March, I called him up and asked if he wanted to make a track and he agreed. He had a microphone and we started in my grandmothers basement free styling and just having fun with it, until we got serious and said " Lets lay these lyrics down on a track.” We pulled up various beats and made freestyle covers. We decided to put it up on Facebook and YouTube for people to hear. He had got positive reviews while I tend to have gotten negative. When I return to school, I became a laughing stock because of my rap.
I was 12 years old when that had occurred and all of the older people made fun of me. I decided to quit rapping and move on to something else but one of my close friends Murtaza Tafawa told me I shouldn't give up. I tried it once more by releasing a track of my self and it ended up being worst. I was bullied because of something I wanted to do. I got beaten up because I wanted to become a rapper and they didn't like it. After being brutally damaged physically and emotionally, I decided to give up my rap career for good. With my cousin Daniel, A.K.A Dj Wipeout, going into deejaying I wanted to give it a shot and try to deejay
but nobody really recognized my work as I posted mixes on Facebook so I gave up that quickly.
A year and a half later, I moved to Ajax and went to a new school with different people. I remember we had an assignment of rapping and I wanted to back out instantly and didn't want to try and become a laughing stock. I was surprised people here did it without worrying so I said to myself " hey I should try it one more time ". One of my friends, Ordeen, got an instrumental and said rap to this. So I did a freestyle and apparently everybody liked it and got motivated once again. With everyone knowing me as a rapper, I rapped at the back of the school with classmates, I also rapped at the talent. I released tracks and it's funny how everyone who gave me negative reviews are now liking my music. I gave up on rapping and started to focus on school. I will always remain a songwriter for anyone who needs to fix their lines. In grade 9, I met one of my closest friends Dante R. I wanted to go back to deejaying and he wanted to become one and we wanted to start a group for upcoming deejays like us. It was a flop, but we found ourselves working together later on.
In February, I wanted to become a promoter instead of rapping or becoming a DJ, but I was hardly known by people. So I went on twitter and there was this mix tape by Heatwave ENT going around by one of the members. I listened to it and I wanted to promote it with my friends in Ajax. I got a lot of recognition for promoting one of their events also. I wanted to become an entertainer gaining positive reviews from my vines you see sometimes. With me leaving the music industry now, I didn't want to so I decided to still promote and entertain people with short clips of comedy. Even though I still wanted to be in the music industry one more time. I wanted to MC as well.
Now having those goals into becoming a popular MC and Entertainer, I find myself in Royal Life Ent as an Entertainer, MC, and a promoter. My future goals are to become 2 out of the 3 things successfully and go to university for my education.
“Cody grew up in Jane and Finch moving from place to place as a little child and in no doubt he has an emotional story.”
A mixture of creativity.Interview with CodyBy @TwittNick
SPECIAL EDITION
@_CODYR13
REACT with Stephanie Robson.Waterloo Regional REACT was established in 1972 and has grown vastly over the years in the services offered to the community and emergency services. We started out as a simple radio communications group offering a means to provide manpower and safety by communication at community events and emergency scenes and have grown in our ability to provide services that are now well beyond this scope. So, who are we now you ask? We are a group of volunteers that have a diverse membership with members who come from all walks of life. It is well known that volunteerism is as diverse as the individuals who volunteer and for that Waterloo
Regional REACT is fortunate to be able to provide our services with that much more ability, skill and understanding. We contribute to our community at special events offering various resources for dealing with issues while keeping the community safe and connected. The majority of our members are trained first responders that are able to respond to incidents during sporting and community events. During emergency service related “events” we offer those same resources and are able to do so with the necessary skills and equipment that is required and requested by those in the emergency services. Our team is able to provide coverage in terms of
communications, first aid, scene lighting, crowd control, patient and emergency service transportation, manpower and many others depending on the need of the situation.
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Our mission is simple:
• To provide a “Safety Umbrella” to participants and members of the public at community-sponsored events.
• To provide effective and reliable volunteer support to the emergency services in times of need.
• To provide specialized emergency support equipment and trained volunteer operators to the emergency services for use in times of need.
Our organization also offers a wide array of specialty equipment for use at community events and emergency scenes. We have a command trailer equipped with a central communication area and a separate work area that is used at a majority of community events we assist at. It is also used to assist and accommodate the needs of the police, fire and emergency medical services. Our scene lighting units are typically used to assist the police at nighttime incidents (i.e. traffic collisions) or the fire department at a major fire. The light span of these units will spread across three football fields and was put into operation to eliminate the need of tying up the fire department (often their trucks were used at scenes to light up the area) so that their trucks can be put back into service. We also have two Argos, one rescue Argo and one ‘utility’ Argo. These vehicles are amphibious and can be used on land, ice and water. Our rescue Argo has been used for ice and water rescues and can assist the EMS with difficult terrain rescues where their ambulances cannot travel. The rescue Argo is equipped with a number 9A stretcher, which is compatible with the
stretchers on the ambulance and can be easily taken right from the Argo and put in the ambulance for a quick and seamless transport in the event of an emergency. Lastly, our organization has a Gator, which is typically used for transporting our members or emergency personnel at events and emergency scenes and can also be used to transport heavy equipment to and from a scene.
Having been a volunteer with REACT for over 4 years now, I am amazed at how much I have gained as an individual for the volunteer work that I do and how much the community benefits for all that I, and my teammates, contribute. As one of the few female members of the Waterloo Regional REACT team I am proud to say that what matters most to the organization is the service we offer (the cause) and the contributions and outstanding social and professional networks we have built up over time. When I began volunteering with REACT it was initially to help others and to my amazement the real change has came from within me. I have developed my leadership and communication skills, improved my interpersonal skills and have been able to use my volunteering as a rich educational and career development tool. My time as a member has also lead me to the wonderful position of Event Coordinator and as a member on the Board of Directors. Being a part of the senior management team has allowed me to voice my perspective on decisions that are to be made and offer insight that others may not have thought of. It truly is a rewarding way for me to contribute to the team, to my community and to the emergency services.
Many often struggle with the decision to volunteer or not, with many feeling that they just do not have the time. As a wife, mother of two young children, full time law clerk and “occasional” housekeeper (not that I enjoy cleaning my
house), I have chosen to make the time to volunteer and I could not be happier that I do. I have gained and grown as an individual; my husband and I volunteer together and my children have been shown a great example in how they too can contribute to their community. My son, now being old enough to be a junior member, has joined in the wonderful contribution of volunteering with my daughter counting down the years until she can too. We have made it a family
event. I am still not sure where all my time goes or how I manage to juggle everything at times, but I can tell you that my laundry is not going anywhere, I can dust that tomorrow, I am leaving the office on time every now and then and
with all of that I still look forward to my next community event or helping the emergency services during times of need. Most importantly, I know that that they too are grateful for the benefits of the volunteers that they have.
As a REACT volunteer I offer first responder services to the community, safety and security at community events and emergency situations, assist at road closure barricades and operate small equipment (lighting units, Argos and Gators) at community events and emergency scenes. I work with members of the community, event organizers, police officers,
fire fighters, paramedics, and even with body removal. Although this may not be something for everyone, I enjoy the community involvement and I enjoy the opportunity assisting the emergency services. In return I have the respect of the community and emergency services and I have acquired the proper training through my membership with REACT
and am able to offer the same skills as the volunteer beside me.
One thing I would like add insight to when making a decision to considering volunteering is that I have learned to be teachable and prepared to change along the way, as the rewards will certainly outweigh the costs – no matter what
age, gender, race, religion or time that you have to offer.
REACT
Being a volunteer with Waterloo Regional REACT has allowed me to grow, learn and apply myself as a
woman, an individual, and as a volunteer within my community.
- Stephanie Robson
@ROBO_STEPH
My name is Talisha Ramsaroop and I am, well that’s the problem, I don’t know what I am. It has become clear to me that being of a minority race in Canada instinctively means facing racism. It is no longer a secret that racism still exists today and though Canada is a multicultural society, which claims to embrace diversity, being a minority and being Canadian do not coincide, you are one or the other. One of the limitations caused by racism is the restriction of radicalized others from identifying as Canadian. I therefore can never be a real Canadian and there is a hyphen to ensure that the closest I will ever get is Guyanese-Canadian. My children will never be Canadian, no one with my skin tone is, or will ever be able to say “I am Canadian” with a sense of truth. So I ask myself how can I not be Canadian when I’ve lived in Canada almost my entire life, Canada is all I know? I’d personally like to think that I am just as Canadian as any other European, but it has become painfully obvious that this is and can never be true. What then am I? Well the next clear option is that because
of my culture I am Guyanese. Yet when I go back to my homeland of Guyana and identify as Guyanese I am just as rejected as I am here in Canada when I identify as Canadian.
This is because in Guyana I am subject to another hyphen, I am not just Guyanese I am Indo-Guyanese, which too many Afro- Guyanese is not a “real Guyanese”. What then am I? Because of my race I am not Canadian though I live here. My culture identifies as Caribbean but again to many Caribbean’s my race restricts me from being a real Caribbean. Yet when I identify with Indians, those who share my race I am rejected again, as to them I am not a real Indian. My culture and my race are two contradictions, I cannot be Indian and Caribbean at the same time, I cannot be Canadian and Guyanese at the same time. I am faced in a situation where in both countries I identify with I am subject to a hyphen and rejected as not “real”. So I ask again what am I?
The internal conflict between a Guyanese-Canadian.By @TwittNick
Written by:
Talisha Ramsaroop
@TALIISHAR
The issue of identity comes up for all minority immigrants to Canada, for once you are a minority you are not a true Canadian. This is because of racist ideologies created by Europeans, which construct themselves as the true Canadian, and forms of institutional racism that reinforce this idea. However idealized images of Europeans as the true Canadian excludes all minority races from identifying as Canadian. Similar to the situation where when one thinks of the orient one has pre-convinced notions of it, when one thinks of Canada pre-conceived notions what a Canadians is exist as well, notions which do not include members of minority races (Jally.1998). Instead the notions usually consist of a white lumber jack, a white hockey player or white man eating pancakes and maple syrup while drinking a beer. Though there are many images of Canadian one variable remains the same, whiteness; and it is whiteness which defines rather one is a real Canadian or not. Whenever a Canadian is identified in sources of media, he or she is white, reinforcing this image and leading to its internalization. For example when I watch an “I am Canadian” Molson beer commercial, I do not see a colored person. On the contrary all I see are white men and women and according to Molson these are Canadians, the only problem is I thought I was Canadian yet I see no reflections of myself in these commercial. This is a form of systemic or institutional racism as the dominant race is portrayed in the media, creating exclusion and oppression for all other races. These images construct minorities as the other, signaling they are not Canadians they are simply immigrants who live in Canada. These images are constant reminders that I am an outsider making me feel unaccepted, unwanted and out casted from my home, like an outsider within my own country.
This feeling of exclusion is especially strong in a situation when there is a strong white presence. This was one of the barriers I faced during my first year of university as I felt extremely isolated. I felt like I was the only minority in a classes filled with whites and as such felt the need to work twice as hard to prove that I am as capable as the others. This is linked back to biological racism which created stereotypes that offended members that are naturally less intelligent or evolved than their white counterparts. As such I felt that I needed to prove myself worthy in order to be accepted in the university setting. This similar situation occurs when one ventures out of Toronto which contrary to the rest of Ontario is very diverse.
Furthermore I could never bring myself to tell a Caucasian person that I was Canadian if ask “where are you from”. I felt as if they would take it offensively, as if I was stealing their identity. As such I have always referred to myself as Guyanese-Canadian. This hyphen meant that I could never really be just a Canadian or true Canadian, I was always mixed with something else, almost as if I was impure. My skin colour prevented this, my children born and raised in Canada and their children will be Guyanese-Canadian. Though they are just as Canadian as any white child born in Canada their skin colour will restrict them from ever being a real Canadian, that title is reserved for those with white skin.
This feeling of exclusions runs contrary to what Canada identifies as one of its fundamental principles known as multiculturalism. Multiculturalism embraces diversity and accepts differences rather than forced assimilation. In theory it sounds perfect, in practice however the situation is quite different. It seems rather than create an inclusive society multiculturalism creates a tolerate one. Cultures are tolerated, but not respected or taken seriously. Goodlin describes this situation as such “cultural diversity is valuable in quasi-aesthetic sense that is creates a more interesting world. But aesthetics are to slender...to build any strong case for respecting any competing culture” (2006.pp290). As such we are tolerated, but never accepted as real Canadian. I am therefore rejected in the country I live, by the culture I know, by the language I speak all because of my skin color.
This situation of rejection due to lack of authenticity is not restricted to just my Canadian identity. In the contrary on the other end of my hyphen identity I am subject to a similar situation. An indo-Caribbean living in Canada is subject to double Diaspora causing a more complex identity problem. They are not just faces with this hyphen in Canada; they are faced with it in Guyana as well. Guyana is geographically located in South America however culturally it is identified with the Caribbean. Within Guyana and the greater Caribbean there has and continues to be conflict between the two prominent races; the Africans and the Indians (Brereton.1979). This conflict has lead to the isolation of Indo-Caribbean’s and a continuous violent relationship between the two cultures as they compete for the Guyanese identity (ibid).
The internal conflict betweena Guyanese-Canadian.
This conflict is a legacy of colonization, which pitted the two cultures against each other. Africans were forced to the Caribbean through the trans-Atlantic slave trade and lived under unbearable conditions. When slavery was finally emancipated in 1830’s Africans believed they would finally be free and appreciated for their labour. Europeans however had different plans as instead of paying the Africans the wages they deserved they brought in Indian indentured workers who were paid low and replaced the Africans as a source of cheap and profitable labour (Haraksingh.1985). The Afro-Caribbean’s felt cheated of their rights they had fought for so long. To make matters worse the Europeans implemented a divide and rule theory which separated people depending on ethnic characteristic like; skin color, religions, cultures and motherland (Brym.2010). They then created stereotypes about the people which were circulated by the colonial master and planters in to the other in order to pit the two cultures against each other (Guerre.2010). This created an invisible division amongst the people which eventually turned them against one another. Tensions arose as Africans felt that Indians had restricted them from the basic rights they had deserves. To Afro-Caribbean’s this was their home now, they had finally made it their own after years of injustice, only to have it taken from them once more by Indians . As such Indian’s were not seen as real Guyanese and rejected by the previous inhabitants of the Caribbean. To Afro-Caribbean’s Indians were simply immigrants who lived on their land.
Remnants of this tension and the divide and rule method still exist today as there is still no unified Guyanese or Caribbean identity. You are either Indian or African. In fact this situation occurs all over the Caribbean. As such Indo-Guyanese are often excluded or feel out of place in Caribbean situations. An example of this from my personal experience occurred a year ago. It was during the festival of Caribana, and I being of Caribbean descent, had attended many of the events occurring after the parade. However during a particular party I strongly remember feeling intimated and out of place. I remember people staring at me and my friends like we were aliens, like we had invaded private territory. To the afro-Caribbean’s at the event we did not belong, we were not real Caribbean’s but enemies. Like the feeling of many European Canadians the afro-Caribbean’s felt that we were the immigrants who took their jobs and land. This was completely understandable considering the colonial history which made it seem like Indians had done just that, but how could I not be included in a place which was encompassed with signifiers of my culture. The music I was hearing was the music I knew, the costumes worn were costumes I
owned, everything about this place was me, yet I had never felt so out of place.
This was one of many occasions of the rejection I received being of Indian descent in a Caribbean situation. Similar to the rejection I felt in during my first year of school. This situation is even worse back home in Guyana where there is a clear divide between the Afro-Guyanese and the Indo-Guyanese. So divided that they had their own towns, within which there is no room for interracial relationships. A town was either only for Indians or only for Africans, there was no in-between. Thus is became more and more clear to me as I grew older that not only was I rejected in Canada a place of which I had migrated and lived for most my life but I was also rejected in Guyana, the place where I was born, my parents and grandparents were born. Three generations later and we are still not considered real Guyanese. It is this observation that has lead me to the conclusion that my grandchildren will never be able to identify themselves as real Canadians as well, that is unless their Indian skin tone is diluted with that a European through intermarriage. As long as they have brown skin however, they will never be Canadian. Similarly as long as I am brown skinned I will never be just Guyanese to the Afro-Guyanese who lived there before my descendants. I am an immigrant to Guyana just as I am an immigrant to Canada.
It seems that my skin color has caused my rejection in all the lands I have ever known as home. In both these countries my skin color does not represent the national identity, leaving me feeling lost, in search of a place that I can call home, a place where I will be accepted. However there was a moment where I saw hope as I had recently learned about a movement which could help me find this place. During the development of Caribbean independence one of the fundamental changes which occurred was the rise of the cultural movement negritude by Aime Ceaser, followed by Rastafarianism (Cesaire.2003). These two cultural shifts encouraged afro-Caribbean’s to return home to Africa to live with others of their skin tone and reclaim their culture (Ibid). It is these theories that lead me to think maybe there is a place I can finally call home, just as the afro-Caribbean’s thought that returning to their homeland of Africa would help them find a true identity I believed maybe returning home to India, the place of my descendants will lead to an identity I can finally take comfort in. It seemed like a plausible solution to me. The national identity of India is one I can relate to, my skin tone will not mark me as an outsider there, in fact for once I’ll fit in. So I thought to myself maybe I’ve finally found the solution to my problems, maybe I have a home.
The internal conflict betweena Guyanese-Canadian.
However I have yet to ever set foot in India and I have learned that since my descendants arrived on the shore of Guyana my Indian culture has been quite modified. In fact since then it has been subject to many sources of acculturation. The Indian culture has been mixed with various European and African cultural forms. I mean I cannot speak one word of Hindi, the national language of India and even my religion has changed. But that didn’t matter because I had the same skin tone, I would not be rejected, I could identify. This optimistic thought was quickly shut down as I learned Indians weren’t exactly waiting my return with open arms. In fact rather than embrace their Caribbean brothers and sisters I learned that many Indians had turned their back to us. A similar situation occurred with the Africans who choice to return back home as well. The various forms of acculturation had just made us too different, though our skin tone was similar and some cultural aspects were as well, we were just too different.
One particular event comes to my mind as I was at a photocopy machine in my old high school. The young women in front of me was taking a particular long time to photocopy her papers, as such I remember becoming increasingly impatient. I mean I was in high school and had not learned to check my attitude which was evident by the amount of times I had kissed my teeth and the constant tapping of my foot as I waited. Yet the response I got was not one I expected, I mean I was expecting her to say something but not this. The Indian woman turned around and told me “ you need to relax, you people think your all that but your nothing but wannabes, trying to be Indian, well you’re not”. I couldn’t even comprehend what she meant? What did she mean I was a “wannabe be Indian”? And I quickly came to the realization that that’s what many Indians though of us, we were the rejects of India, the sell outs who left their country and diluted the Indian culture and name. We
were not real Indian. Sound familiar? Again I was faced with the situation where I was not real, I was not a real Canadian I was not a real Guyanese and I was not a real Indian. Rejected by three countries, three cultures I continue to ask furiously what am I?
I have yet to find the answer to this question, and though it frustrates me to know that I have no single identity I take comfort in the fact that the culture I know is so diverse and rich that I don’t think it could be defined in just one single definition. I am not Indian because my Indian roots have been infused with Caribbean cultures, and in all honesty I don’t know where I’d be without the rhythms of Soca music and I have yet to tastes anything as sweet as many of the Caribbean fruits I have eaten. However I’m not just Caribbean either because Canada as provided me with the opportunity to attain an education I could not have received back home, and let’s face it what would life be life without poutine’s ? I grew up in this culture, so though I was born in Guyana most of my socialization was done based on the Canadian definition of what is socially acceptable. So though it pains me to know that I am not a real Canadian or Guyanese or Indian I have come to realize that I’m okay with that, because I am a hybrid identity that cannot be defined in any one of these nationalities. I am optimistic that maybe one day Canada will succeed in creating a country free of exclusion or oppression; though it may take a while, and during that time my people, my children will be able to identify as whatever hybrid they will be and will not be tolerated as the other but accepted as one of the various identities that compose the Canadian identity. Until that day I am faced with rejection because of racist ideologies. I am subject to discrimination, I am told I have stolen the jobs of whites, I am told to go back to a home I do not have, and I continue to ask, what am I?
The internal conflict betweena Guyanese-Canadian.
TWITT©KMAGAZINE
ONE CLICK CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE.
STEPHANIE
@TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE
Stephanie, 22, is a double major Life Sciences student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto, St. George, in human biology and religion; with specialized areas of concentration in health & disease as well as Hinduism.
Her interest in these two areas stem from her strong religious upbringing, and her desire to professionally excel in the alternative medicine and medical research field. In addition to her academic interests, Stephanie plans on giving back to her
community by working with young girls with body image and self-esteem concerns by branching out into the modeling arena.
All in all, Stephanie is a very modest and ambitious young lady whom truly understands the value of a strong educational foundation and the responsibility of which it holds as to shape the world around her.
“Simple living…high thinking”by @TwittNick
TWITTNI©K MAGAZINE
@RAADHA19
Keysha, born and raised in Toronto, Canada, has been able to make not only a name for herself, but a statement as well.Also known as Keysha Freshh, the talented hiphop artist and songwriter has been honing her mic skills in an attempt to make her mark in the music industry.Since age five when she penned her first song which was published in a local newspaper, Keysha has been singing at events across the Greater Toronto Area.She has performed the Canadian anthem at several community events and was a member of the popular Toronto Children’s choir (TC3).With the encouragement of Canadian hip-hop and R & B producer T-Minus, Keysha’s first full-length rap song, Pardon my Swag, was released on August 8, 2008 (ironically, 8 is Keysha’s favorite number).The following year, Keysha – who enjoys writing – penned several songs and in 2010, released her first single, Hollywood Fresh, which received significant airplay on commercial radio stations. A few months later, the video and remix for Hollywood Fresh was released, both of which featured a cameo & verse from popular American hip-hop artist MIMS. Another single, Make it Look Easy, featuring
Bassline & JB (a project put together by P-Reign) was instantly picked up by commercial radio stations, making Keysha the youngest Canadian female artists to have three songs in 12 months on the airwaves.In the past two years, Keysha has collaborated with several top artists, including Doug E Fresh who is considered the pioneer of 20th century American beatboxing, Mims, P-Reign, Darryl Riley, The Rezza Brothers and Ray Robinson.With two mix tapes, one Demo an EP and 2 front-page magazine covers, accumulated in just four years, Keysha is well on her way to stardom.She recently started an awareness outreach initiative – KeysFORAutism — which uses social media to raise awareness about kids living with autism and an online blog – SpottedFreshh — which is an urban site that showcases events, videos, music, albums and youth talent.
Keysha has two projects slated to release early 2014
Toronto’s very own Keysha Fresh.By @TwittNick
“In a historically male dominated industry, female MC’s have had a tough go trying to find their place in the spotlight.” Keysha
@KEYSHATO
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OCTOBER 2013NEHA SONI
EXAMPLE
A WOMAN WHO HAS A STORY AND STRIVING ON A DAILY TO MAKE ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE.
By @TwittNick
Neha Soni, 20, is pursuing a double degree in Law and Journalism with Media Studies. She was born in Kolkata, India and eventually raised in Mississauga, Ontario.
Soni enjoyed dancing since she was 7 years old and was professionally trained afterwards continuing into her freelance. "A proclaimed "melomaniac", someone who has an inane obsession for music - all diverse music. The stranger, the more unknown; the better. I find that people who play instruments or have played instruments generally sway towards music with more of a 'soul' definition - such as classical, jazz, contemporary, etc. I grew up listening to oldies - Michael Jackson, Boney M, ABBA, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra. I also was a huge fan of early euro-house as a kid, then broader variations of EDM which includes but is not limited to progressive-trance, electronica, electro-house, deep-house, etc. I was (and still am as everyone knows) an obsessive fan of Dj Tiesto. I was literally raised by the sounds of Tiesto, and inherited this love for the man thanks to some of my family members - mainly my uncle. In my early youth, alongside house I was a huge fan of alternative rock, hip-hop, r&b and rap (what a random mix), then j-pop (japanese pop - even more random); I had a serious split personality with urban music (reggae, hip hop) and house music back in high school as well. Far too many amazing artists and bands to list!"
Two of her greatest inspirations would be her father and her mother. "They both have individual qualities that I strive for, and I admire them in two separate ways - my mother's heart and my father's brain. My mother and her boundless talents - she was an amazing classical dancer, an amazing singer. But besides her talents she encompasses everything a true woman should be. Her undying compassion for her children, her strength, her perseverance; her accepting, and loving heart. Through incredibly strenuous work, massive successes, devastating failures, and all that life throws at her - she taught me to knock 'em down with a smile. The relationship I have with my mother is one that is rare; I can tell this woman anything. No secrets, whatsoever. In that sense our relationship is so crystal clear that it is, in every sense of the word, unbreakable."
NEHA SONI
The second person, undeniably, would be her father. "The genius of the family. The over-achiever. The most gifted man I know. Most people tend to be either great at the arts, or great in the books. My father is and was always one to be stellar at both. Masters, PhD, author, artist, poet, dancer; you name it. Currently a professor at the University of Queensland, Australia; the man knows everything about practically anything. A walking encyclopedia! He is quite a marvel. But the passion I have for the sciences and scientific breakthroughs has always come from him. Two of the most beautiful people God has put on this planet, I have been blessed to have as my parents. Audrey Hepburn is one of my leading idols - that woman was sheer class, intelligence, and talent wrapped up in attitude and grace. I have idolized the style of Aaliyah (rip), Ciara, for several years now as well as the stunning Nazanin Mandi, and Lana Del Rey."
Neha absolutely adores her German Shepherd x Border Collie puppy Sheeba to bits, as well as her kitten Eris. But the love for animals goes a lot further than just that. "I've been an animal rights activist for a decade now. Yes, since my elementary days too. I remember my greatest motivation as a child was when I voiced my concern in grade 3 to our Prime Minister (who was Jean Chrétien at the time) and was followed up by a letter signed by him, a with a package from his secretary that had documents of important contacts to get the ball rolling, lists of endangered species and other ideas/further steps to solidify my motives. With the help of several notable people, organizations, PETA, WWF and local shelters, I've helped raise thousands of dollars. This was accomplished through various performances, charities, and fundraisers with the teams that I created throughout the years. The importance of animal welfare is often overlooked. We don't realize that all animals - not just the furry, cuddly, cute domesticated ones - are all vital to the healthy ecology of our planet. Slowly, many species are dwindling away. My late grandfather, who was an environmentalist and worked for the Ministry of Environment in India has been a huge contributor to the Sundarban Tiger Reserves. The Sundarban Tiger Reserve is one of the largest bengal tiger reserves in the world, and has been existent since the 1800s. Thus, I do my best to continue this legacy of wildlife preservation; whenever I get the chance to go back to India I always ensure that I check in with the reserves, as a part of our family heritage."
Neha is passionate about astrology, astronomy, and great literature. Machiavelli, Knox, Locke, Burke, etc., to name a few. But Frederick Nietzsche is most definitely her hero. And so everything she perceive is through a philosophical, analytic retina - from religion to various contemporary issues and problems we face, such as global warming, increasing global inequalities, increase in crimes, corporate crimes, and new forms of political exclusion.
"I strive to make a difference by putting in individual efforts, and working with like-minded people. I solely sponsor a child through World Vision, by the name of Suraj Arun. My mother and I also directly support a young child and her sister in India through supplying them clothes, food, shelter (arranged by relatives) and education fees; without the hindering of proceeds due to administrative fees, etc that other charities may have."
Neha'a main motive now is to put the animal rights, environmental issues, crime, and global poverty into societal perspective through various means that are already in the works. "I am currently in the process of holding Hip-Hop and Salsa training.”
Neha Soni@NEHAXSONI
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