THE FOUR SEASONS OF LIFE (SUCCESS &SIGNIFICANCE)

I will like to shed some light on the 4 seasons of life from Survival to significance. Most of us live through this phases and sometimes think its particular to just us ..but its the process of life. the 4 key areas (relationship, health, finances and your ministry)




The first season is SURVIVAL.
in this phase we are still struggling to figure things out. Our career, relationships and spiritual life is all in drama. its always up and down, we always need a miracle. Someone is either messing with us or we are messing with someone, everything just seems up and down, its awful, its draining, it sucks the life out of you. At this stage many Christians feel discouraged. The bible says that hope postponed, makes the heart despair, here we keep praying and nothing changes and what we are hoping for keeps going longer and longer, discouragement is written all over us because we seem to just be surviving in a deep sea with our nose just slightly above the water. Survival mode can be a very addictive mode, its a place where most people need miracles. When you study survival mode in most Christians life, you quickly realise that they quickly go to all the miracle sermons that take place in churches. At this phase, we need to allow the holy spirit to nurture us. When we completely rely on the direction of the holy spirit and most importantly don't loose hope, the holy spirit will show us how to transition into the next phase., life is a process, you are not the only one going through this phase. we could be experiencing the survival mode either in our job, marriage or relationship. you feel the relationship is not going like it should, or the marriage is not what you signed up for or the job doesn't give you inherent satisfaction. you are struggling with this issues. This is the survival mode we didn't start the relationship to fail..its a process, focus on the holy spirit to move this to the next phase. don't quit, or get a divorce...just yet. The situations of our lives are up to us.

The next season is stability
one of the most incredible thing you gonna do is when you move from survival mode to stability.. at this phase.. you are not gonna get a divorce anymore, you have a constant pay cheque coming in, you got your dream job, She/he accepted to date you again, you feel like he/she might like you again so the relationship might work.. oh he's beginning to change, he is now a good dad, here there's a breathe of relieve (uhhh!!!! things are falling into place ***smiles). you went through survival, you didn't give up, you trusted the guidance of the holy spirit and things stabilized. most of us get so comfortable with stability and forget to dream again. once things stabilize you have to dream again, because if you don't dream again you may stay in stability for the rest of your life and think you are successful, if you stay here then you might never know what it is to succeed.

the next interesting phase is SUCCESS
Success is about dreaming again. in order to move from stability to success, your focus is important. Focus on positive evidence, gather the right evidence, focus on Gods word.( Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of what we cannot see.) Stability is a comfort zone but remember nothing great happens within a comfort zone. Stability should be the fuel that propels and prepares you towards success. ,Money is good, but Success isn't just money, what about success in your relationship!. what does SUCCESS look like!! have u ever thought about it?, success is about dreaming again, after you become stable in any of the 4 key area of your life, you have to dream a new dream, Success is a journey not a destination. Stability is just a destination you long to reach after survival but after been stable you have to dream and keep dreaming and keep moving, yes you got the job, dream for a promotion and keep working, yes you got the relationship, dream for a next level and keep working, there's always a higher level to attain and success is the ability to keep dreaming for the next best level and attaining it. you have to be the light, bring flavor to the company, be the light in the relationship . The bible says we are meant to be the head and not the tail, success is the continuous strive to be that light, that head and not the tail. We have to be really cautious not to confuse stability with success. Life has got storms but the holy spirit will guide you through your success and great things will happen in your life as long as you don't get comfortable in the comfort zone of stability.. Do not project a give up mentality but get up and keep working. most times success is measured by how many failures you have overcome but if you get comfortable with stability and don't dream again you may never even know the difference between success and failure because in the comfort zone of stability, you never really get challenges.

THE 4TH AND MOST INTERESTING PHASE IS SIGNIFICANCE.
This is more precious to me than any other. What is success to you! getting the dream job or the dream car!! oh yeah may be, what ever it is for you, hang in there but there has got to be something more.., this is the paradigm shift to significance. SUCCESS is about you but significance is about others. SUCCESS without significance is empty, it has no passion. Significance is more about ministry and discovering your purpose. there is something you are made for that should impact the lives of others. Significance is about the Kingdom. This is not just about feeding people or providing people with shelter, its more about helping people discover their purpose. Jesus did not just go about feeding people or giving them shelter but he taught them about the kingdom because there, they discover their purpose and living your purpose brings a sense of fulfillment as you now function in your role as a king. The purpose of a true king is to look after people. Kings don't look after themselves, they look after people and that is why they have Kingdoms. Its not about making your money and having a healthy bank account and going home. Its about the lives you impact.
Regardless of what the situation out there is, you represent Jesus. No matter your limitation (moses was a stammer), everyone has excuses but do not let your excuse eliminate you from an incredible sense of significance.
its all about giving, give your time, give your money, give your all, take the risk despite the complacency to make another persons life better.
just be kind. Kindness touches souls. Whatever it is you are doing, represent Christ. be tough on a difficult situation if you have to but do so with love and respect, end the relationship if you have to but do NOT INSULT THE PERSON YOU ARE LEAVING. fire the employee if you have to but do so without exhibiting anger, because in all, you are dealing with fellow humans and you should in every circumstance show respect for a fellow human. in everything you do, represent Christ.
The purpose of your business is not to enrich your bank account but to seek first the kingdom. The purpose of your marriage is not for love or sex but to seek first the kingdom.

you need to get past success and live in SIGNIFICANCE.

Greatness is more than potential. It is the execution of that potential. Beyond the raw talent. You need the appropriate training. You need the discipline. You need the inspiration. You need the drive. Keep Smiling. xoxo,Manka

MISS BLACK BEAUTY CANADA SET FOR AUGUST 23RD

Pageantry is becoming the new and more fashionable way of empowering young girls into leadership, discovering their potentials and being involved in community development.

Miss Black beauty Canada is a pageant whose social cause is in support of sickle cell Anemia disease

Anastasia Delon the MBBC 2013 has completed her own part of this cause and will be handing down the mantle to another great \Beauty Queen and leader on August 23.

we all are invited for Miss Black Beauty Canada 2014 beauty pageant event on Saturday, August 23rd 2014.

12 Contestants, High profile judges, Best Entertainers, and Red Carpet. Its time to come out and support the young intelligent, talented, beautiful, cultured, Educated Black women in Canada. Ghana, Nigeria, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, St Vincent, Guyana, Grenada, Dominica, Turks & Caicos, Brazil, Cuba & Liberia. Come out to wave your country your flag. Yes another Sold out event. Be part of the movement and support your community. Together we will rise again! Don't miss out any segment from opening dance to crowning moment. Saturday, August 23rd. 2014 @ Queen Elizabeth Theater. See you there! Call 647-982-6646 for tickets



Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” ....Manka

Cameroonian Urban Hit Rapper "MD THA RAP MONSTA " in trouble in Calgary

Cameroonian Urban Hit Rapper “MD THA RAPMONSTA “ in serious trouble in Calgary, Canada.
MD Tha Rapmonsta, Cameroonian Hit Rapper is reported to be in serious trouble in Calgary, Canada surprisingly just with his fellow Cameroonians.

The Rapper who is said to have left Cameroon a year back to pursue his Music interest in Canada didn’t find it favorable with his fellow brothers. You know how it is for cute black guys who are on the rise in the entertainment industry. A lot of people admire his Rap style, talk of his cuteness and charm and his uniqueness of skills and this gets the attention of black sisters all over which has landed the Rap King James in so much trouble especially with fellow men. Our team met up with that Rap icon and questioned him on what he can say about the situation that keeps his name on the lips of almost every Cameroonian residing in Calgary and he said

“I owe no explanation to anyone. I’m just grateful them that impaired my vision are out of my way and now I got my 20.20 on HD.”
Latest rumor is, the Rap King James has relocated to Toronto where we are sure he will start building his music empire exclusively for his fans…







Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” ....Manka

25 things before 25

25 THINGS I WILL LOVE TO DO BEFORE AM 25

1. Eat an entire large Bucket of chocolate ice cream
2. Go on a 3 month world cruise
3. Get on the Forbes "30 under 30" list
4. Buy myself a car
5. Build my parents a huge house in Bafut

6. Get my driving license
7. Go on an American road trip
8. Have someone perform something (song, poem) like "All of me" John legend just for me
9. Design and erect a self sustaining charity org.
10. Watch one football world cup game live!

11. Become a "people person" ... lol
12. Run a blog that inspires people on purpose
13. do a bicycle race
14. Visit Jamaica
15. Get a Master's degree

16. Start my own Talk show
17. Get over 10000 views on each of my blog post
18. Design and Build my own house
19. Have a room full of shoes and bags..lol
20. Spend a month shopping and sightseeing in New york

21. Learn how to braid hair
22. Get my CPA certification
23. get my own trademark and brand for clothing and cosmetics (MankaNadineTM)
24. Fall in love with a tall handsome and God fearing young man
25. Get married!/engaged (either)

This is not in order of priority.As I do each I will cross them off the list, Let's see how many I get done in 2015!

so what is it for you? some may seem unrealistic, but they keep you going? what are those 30 things you must do before 30 or those 15 things you must do before 15!!! get a pen and paper and start.
xoxo; Manka

Kelly Azia Wins Best Upcoming Actress at the Cameroon Movie Merit Awards

John Elliot said "The best players in any high-stakes field - business, entertainment, law, surgery, as well as sport - recognize that pressure occurs at the moments when meaningful accomplishment is possible. In fact, that is the reason why performers perform: for the opportunity to tackle challenges head on, to do something significant, to demonstrate what their hard work and talent can produce"
I'm impressed by her tenacity. She worked hard to put things together -- and without a doubt she has talent.

it started as a joke when i met her in 2010.. we took part in a beauty pageant together then she told me she had a passion for acting, in 2013, she produced a movie where she was the lead character," Different Kinds of Men".. her performance in this movie was so out standing.. its no doubt she got the Talent and the Jury of the CMMA could not resist her performance.

I believe the sky is the limit for you Kelly



Greatness is more than potential. It is the execution of that potential. Beyond the raw talent. You need the appropriate training. You need the discipline. You need the inspiration. You need the drive. Keep Smiling..Manka

MD The Rap Monster Drops his next hit song "Refugee"

M.D (ft TRACKZONE RECORDS) is about to release his mix tape called 'Refugee" in Canada. When i heard the tittle of this tape i wondered if the Cameroonian Artist meant to tell us if hes already a Refugee in the foreign land... but well you Cant know untill you listen.


This track features, Martin Dicristo ( super talented bro) & Askia OMG! i watched this gurl performed once and shes a Diva!!!

Listen, enjoy, dance, reflect on the WORDs...'Tis the season of the Lord, welcome Jesus with praises, with songs....listen to "WORD", by M.D Tha Rapmonsta Ft Martin Dicristo & Askia .

Its the festive season, a time to communion with family, friends and loved ones.. while you do that, put on your dancing shoes and dance to the refugee.......lol even if ure not one yet..hahahahahahahahahahahahah



“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race”
Keep Smiling--Manka

RITA DOMINIC.; nay or yay???

The award winning actress was spotted at the airport in this out fit; will you consider it?

fashion is how u rock it
xoxo Manka

Beverly Osu & Melvin Oduah cover new issue of Complete magazin

In the new issue of Complete Fashion magazine, Beverly talks on her famous acts in the house and what she hopes to achieve in the nearest future. Handsome and talented, Melvin speaks on his life in the BBA house, his plans in the entertainment industry and his life as a model.

No platform is too small to live ur dreams
xoxo; Manka

MY FEET ARE OFF THE GROUND

I sent this off before I had Facebook, and I wanted to send this to my Facebook fans... Hey everybody! This morning I woke and was so frustrated about all the stuff I'm dealing with, trying to get this studio open. I was about to open my mouth and start complaining when I remembered something that happened to me about a year ago. I was walking to my car and this woman who looked to be homeless started walking towards me. I'm ashamed to say this but I thought, "I don't feel like being hustled today." Then I got quickly convicted. I felt guilty so I started digging in my pocket for some money. As she got closer I noticed that she had the kindest eyes that I had ever seen. As I was reaching into my pocket she started to speak. I thought, "Here goes the sales pitch". She said "Excuse me sir, I need some shoes". Can you help me? My eyes filled with water because I remember being out on the streets and having only one pair of run over shoes. I was taken aback for a second. I took her inside the studio and had my wardrobe people find shoes in her size. As she put the shoes on she started crying, praising God and thanking Jesus, and saying, "My feet are off the ground! My feet are off the ground!" Several of the wardrobe people started crying. I was crying. But I never forgot that, "My feet are off the ground!" I thought, "Wow! All she wanted was some shoes." She quickly disappeared and never asked me for a dime. I realized that I still had the money in my hand so I went out looking for her. She was gone just that quick so I looked all around the neighborhood for her. I found her standing on a corner looking down at her shoes still crying. I was so touched I asked her how she had gotten homeless. She told me that she had AIDS and that she was waiting to get into a shelter. She said that her family had turned their backs on her and she had nowhere to go and that God would make a way for her. I said to myself, "He just did." Her faith and her praise moved me. I took her to a nearby hotel and put her up until she was able to get on her feet. I had someone that worked for me to check on her from time to time and make sure that she had food and clothes. After about a month or so we lost touch but I never forgot her. This past summer I was shooting "Daddy's Little Girls" and this woman walks up to me smiling. I didn't recognize her face but her eyes were familiar. She had on a really nice dress and her hair was done. It was her! She told me that the little help that I had given her changed her life. She was in a house now and doing very well. I said all of that to say this. After I met this woman, every time I think about complaining and mumbling I remember, "My feet are off the ground!" I wanted to share this with you just to let you know that when I say that I am thankful for you, I really mean it. And when I say that you are a blessing to me, I mean it. We take so much for granted sometimes that I just wanted all of you to know that I am grateful to God for you everyday. Thank you for being in my life, Tyler by Tyler Perry on March 21, 2007.

Tyler Perry is an American actor, director, screenwriter, playwright, producer, author, and songwriter, specializing in the gospel genre. Perry wrote and produced many stage plays during the 1990s and early 2000s.

Your situation isnt as bad as u think. if you complain you dont have shoes; think of those who dont have legs. Happiness is truely a choice.IF INSPIRED BY THIS SHARE TO PUT A SMILE ON THE FACES OFOTHERS
xoxo Manka

Making a Great First Impression

It takes just a quick glance, maybe three seconds, for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. In this short time, the other person forms an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanor, your mannerisms, and how you are dressed.

With every new encounter, you are evaluated and yet another person's impression of you is formed. These first impression can be nearly impossible to reverse or undo, making those first encounters extremely important, for they set the tone for all the relationships that follows.

So, whether they are in your career or social life, it's important to know how to create a good first impression. This article provides some useful tips to help you do this.



Be on Time

Someone you are meeting for the first time is not interested in your "good excuse" for running late. Plan to arrive a few minutes early. And allow flexibility for possible delays in traffic or taking a wrong turn. Arriving early is much better that arriving late, hands down, and is the first step in creating a great first impression.

Be Yourself, Be at Ease

If you are feeling uncomfortable and on edge, this can make the other person ill at ease and that's a sure way to create the wrong impression. If you are calm and confident, so the other person will feel more at ease, and so have a solid foundation for making that first impression a good one. See our section on relaxation techniques to find out how to calm that adrenaline!

Present Yourself Appropriately

Of course physical appearance matters. The person you are meeting for the first time does not know you and your appearance is usually the first clue he or she has to go on.

But it certainly does not mean you need to look like a model to create a strong and positive first impression. (Unless you are interviewing with your local model agency, of course!)

Note. The key to a good impression is to present yourself appropriately.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and so the "picture" you first present says much about you to the person you are meeting. Is your appearance saying the right things to help create the right first impression?

Start with the way you dress. What is the appropriate dress for the meeting or occasion? In a business setting, what is the appropriate business attire? Suit, blazer, casual? And ask yourself what the person you'll be meeting is likely to wear – if your contact is in advertising or the music industry, a pinstripe business suit may not strike the right note!

For business and social meetings, appropriate dress also varies between countries and cultures, so it's something that you should pay particular attention to when in an unfamiliar setting or country. Make sure you know the traditions and norms.

And what about your grooming? Clean and tidy appearance is appropriate for most business and social occasions. A good haircut or shave. Clean and tidy clothes. Neat and tidy make up. Make sure your grooming is appropriate and helps make you feel "the part".

Appropriate dressing and grooming help make a good first impression and also help you feel "the part", and so feel more calm and confident. Add all of this up and you are well on your way to creating a good first impression.

A Word about Individuality

The good news is you can usually create a good impression without total conformity or losing your individuality. Yes, to make a good first impression you do need to "fit in" to some degree. But it all goes back to being appropriate for the situation. If in a business setting, wear appropriate business attire. If at a formal evening social event, wear appropriate evening attire. And express your individuality appropriately within that context.

A Winning Smile!

As the saying goes, "Smile and the world smiles too." So there's nothing like a smile to create a good first impression. A warm and confident smile will put both you and the other person at ease. So smiling is a winner when it comes to great first impressions. But don't go overboard with this – people who take this too far can seem insincere and smarmy, or can be seen to be "lightweights."

Be Open and Confident



When it comes to making the first impression, body language as well as appearance speaks much louder than words.

Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance. Stand tall, smile (of course), make eye contact, greet with a firm handshake. All of this will help you project confidence and encourage both you and the other person to feel better at ease.

Almost everyone gets a little nervous when meeting someone for the first time, which can lead to nervous habits or sweaty palms. By being aware of your nervous habits, you can try to keep them in check. And controlling a nervous jitter or a nervous laugh will give you confidence and help the other person feel at ease. Again, see our section on relaxation techniques for help with this.

Small Talk Goes a Long Way

Conversations are based on verbal give and take. It may help you to prepare questions you have for the person you are meeting for the first time beforehand. Or, take a few minutes to learn something about the person you meet for the first time before you get together. For instance, does he play golf? Does she work with a local charitable foundation?

Is there anything that you know of that you have in common with the person you are meeting? If so, this can be a great way to open the conversation and to keep it flowing.

Be Positive

Your attitude shows through in everything you do. Project a positive attitude, even in the face of criticism or in the case of nervousness. Strive to learn from your meeting and to contribute appropriately, maintaining an upbeat manner and a smile.
Be Courteous And Attentive

It goes without saying that good manners and polite, attentive and courteous behavior help make a good first impression. In fact, anything less can ruin the one chance you have at making that first impression. So be on your best behavior!

One modern manner worth mentioning is "turn off your mobile phone". What first impression will you create if you are already speaking to someone other than the person you are meeting for the first time? Your new acquaintance deserves 100% of your attention. Anything less and you'll create a less than good first impression.

Key Points

You have just a few seconds to make a good first impression and it's almost impossible ever to change it. So it's worth giving each new encounter your best shot.

Much of what you need to do to make a good impression is common sense. But with a little extra thought and preparation, you can hone your intuitive style and make every first impression not just good but great.

5 Ways To Make a Killer First Impression

Most people will judge you within the first second of meeting you and their opinion will most likely never change. Making a good first impression is incredibly important, because you only get one shot at it.

PRINCETONS UNIVERSITY psychologist Alex Todorov and co-author Janine Willis, a student researcher who graduated from Princeton in 2005 had people look at a microsecond of video of a political candidate. Amazingly, research subjects could predict with 70-percent accuracy who would win the election just from that microsecond of tape. This tells us that people can make incredibly accurate snap judgments in a tenth of a second.

How can you ensure people are judging you accurately and also seeing your best side? You never want to give people an inauthentic impression — many people can intuitively feel if someone is being fake immediately. However, any time you meet someone for the first time, you always want to start on the right foot. Here are a few ways you can make sure people’s first impression of you is a good one:

1. Set an intention. The most important thing to do for giving a good impression is to set your intention. This is especially important before any kind of big event where you would be meeting a lot of people — i.e. conferences, networking events or friend’s parties. As you get ready or when you are driving over think about what kind of people you want to meet and what kind of interactions you want to have. This can be an incredibly grounding experience and works very well to focus on what kind of energy you want to have for your event.

2. Think about your ornaments. Clothes, make-up, jewelry, watches and shoes are all types of ornamentation and people definitely take these into account when making initial judgments. I highly recommend getting some of your favorite outfits or ornaments together and asking friends you trust what they think of when they see them. For many men, they do not realize that their watch can say a lot about them. For women, purses and large earrings or jewelry can also indicate a lot to a new person they are meeting. Make sure that what you are wearing and how you do your hair or make-up says what you want it to say to the people you are meeting for the first time.

3. Be Conscious of Your Body Language. Body language is a crucial part of first impressions. Everything from your posture to how you carry yourself to the way you’re angling your body. Often, simply being aware of your body language can result in immediate improvements. Another way to examine your body language is to look at yourself on a video walking around a room. Subconscious cues to keep in mind include noticing where you point your feet, the position of your shoulders, and the way you shake hands.

4. Avoid bad days. People who go to cocktail events or mixers after having had a bad day typically continue to have a bad day. If you are in a depressed or anxious mood, others will pick up on this from your facial expressions, comments and body language. If you’re having a bad day, stay home! Otherwise, find a way to snap yourself out of your bad mood. I find working out or watching funny YouTube videos before events often gets me in a more social, feel good mood.

5. Be interested and interesting. If you are truly interested in meeting people and are open to learning about who they are, they will get this in a first impression. We have all had the experience of meeting someone and knowing instantly that they were dragged here by a friend and are just waiting to get out the door and head home. When you are meeting people for the first time approach others with a genuine interest in who they are. This is often contagious and you will have better conversations and lasting connections when you are interested because they become interested.

The Ways to Maintain a Friendship

A good friendship nourishes your need for human interaction. When you have a circle of close friends as well as acquaintances with whom you can share good times and bad, laugh and just hang out together, you feel connected to others. Having friends helps people to be happy as well as get through tough times. Once you’ve met someone and become friends with her, you need to participate in give-and-take to keep the friendship going. Like all relationships, friendships take effort.

Go Easy on your Friends

Life happens. Flat tires, sick children and lost keys happen to your friends just as they do to you. When you’ve made plans to do Saturday lunch with your best friend and you show up, then end up waiting for 30 minutes, don’t assume you’ve been stood up on purpose. Call your friend. Be willing to give her the benefit of the doubt, just as you'd like her to do for you. When you're willing to go easy on each other, you both realize that circumstances don't matter as much as the relationship. If your friend consistently flakes out on plans or commitments, thought, think about whether it's worth maintaining this friendship.

Give Each Other Space

Once you have a good friendship going, find a happy balance that allows the two of you to spend time together as well as with other people. You've probably heard the stories of friends who became "stalker friends," ruining their relationships. It isn’t necessary to call your friend five times a day and get together every day to do something, but do keep her in the loop and make plans to see each other every few days. Give her time to be with her family and with other friends, too. Some people enjoy solitary time as well.

Be Reliable

If you offered to help your school friend with a yard sale, remember to show up. Nothing says “quality friend” like someone who is reliable and dependable. Conversely, the person who consistently flakes out on obligations and promises will soon find that her friends don’t call her for get-togethers or to help out with something in their lives. If you tend to forget your obligations, write them down in your planner or wall calendar or log it into your smartphone.

Be a Good Friend

You’ve probably heard the sayings, “To have a friend, be a friend,” or “Treat others as you would want to be treated.” It’s true. This is where the give-and-take of a true friendship comes into play. Treat your good friends like the treasures they are. Act with thoughtfulness toward them. When they are experiencing difficult situations, offer to help; if they don’t want help, let them know you have a shoulder to cry on, should they need one.

Let Your Friends Know You Think of Them

When you see something that reminds you of a close friend, make a quick note of that. The next time you see your friend or even when you’re communicating online, tell her, “I saw the most beautiful scarf at the store today that reminded me of you!” When you hear some good news, contact your friend and congratulate her. She’ll appreciate your effort. Friendships are connections between people, so letting your friends know when something reminds you of them helps you strengthen that connection.
Put Effort Into Your Friendships

When you put effort into your relationships, they blossom. Just like putting small deposits into your savings account, your “friendship balance” will grow when you take the time to do fun things with your friends. If life gets in the way, don’t retreat from your friendships, or you’ll find them growing stagnant. Stay in contact even once a week so that, should something happen to a friend, you can offer support or encouragement.

xoxo Manka

Seven Steps to Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is based on the thoughts and feelings you have about yourself. These can be positive, negative, or accepting. High self-esteem is reflected by positive thoughts such as "I'm smart, attractive, and interesting." These thoughts can help you feel effective, capable, and lovable. Low self-esteem is reflected by negative thoughts such as "I'm ugly, stupid, and boring." These thoughts can make you feel worthless, unlovable, and incompetent. People with high self-esteem accept and like themselves.



Julio Iglesias was a professional soccer player in Spain when an automobile accident ended his sports career and left him paralyzed from the waist down. For nearly two years, he could not move his legs.

While in the hospital a compassionate nurse gave him a guitar to help him pass the time recuperating. Before that Iglesias had no musical aspirations. Nevertheless, he managed to regain the ability to walk and has gone on to become one of the most popular entertainers in the world.

How is it that someone can experience a devastating loss, conquer it and emerge triumphant?

According to psychologists, a major factor has to do with self-esteem, that combination of self-confidence and self-respect which empowers a person to keep moving forward and upward.

Psychologists also say that anyone may increase and strengthen self-esteem . Here are seven ways to build your self-esteem .

1Make the most of yourself.

Too many people put themselves down and dwell on their negatives. The first step in building stronger self-esteem is to stop kicking yourself and harness the potential within.

Ruth is a 29 year old director of public relations with a large company. She has been promoted more rapidly than other men and women who were older and more experienced. Her secret: “Rather than berate myself for my inadequacies, I have always tried to maximize my strengths and minimize my weakness.”

2 Take Risks.

There is nothing quite like accepting a new challenge and conquering it. A good approach is to tackle a project you have been hesitant about doing: Go back to school and earn the college degree you’ve always wanted, take up singing lessons, go on that overseas trip.

Susan Schenkel, author of Giving Away Success, explains: “Taking action helps to restore a perception of control and to lessen the sense of helplessness. The feelings of success generated by even a seemingly trivial accomplishment can inspire optimism and a desire to carry on.”

3 Be Optimistic.

Actress Lucille Ball said: “One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore faith in yourself.”

In her book, Negaholics, psychologist Cherie Carter Scott offers this advice: “Think positive. When you find yourself on the brink of a negatack – ready to berate yourself for an error you’ve made – murmur a ‘pet phrase’ that
has a positive message for you. Some examples are: ‘I learn from making mistakes’ or ‘I have the power to choose.’”

4 Turn negatives into positives.
There is wisdom in this Eastern saying: “When life throws a dagger at you there are only two ways to catch it: by the blade or by the handle.”

Life brings setbacks to everybody. The key is to transform pain into gain and hurt into healing. A good example is actor Dana Elcar who co-stars in the television serious, MacGyver. Glaucoma is robbing him of his sight. He turned this tragedy into a triumph by having his producers write his plight into a stirring TV plot. Elcar increased awareness of glaucoma and thereby helped the 2.5 million Americans affected by it.

5 Avoid being judgmental.

Barb, 31, told a counselor, “Every time I get close to someone they begin to back off and drop out of my life.” When the counselor asked Barb to repeat some of the conversations she had with potential friends, Barb was shocked to realize that most of her comments were put-downs, complaints, accusations and judgments.

The therapist helped her see that such a judgmental attitude came from low self-esteem, which she tried to overcome by criticizing others. By viewing others more positively Barb found herself able to make and keep friends.

6 Seek enriching relationships.

Developing strong self-esteem means connecting with women and men who affirm our gifts and talents. Alexandra Stoddard, a well-known interior designer and the author of nine book, says an important part of her success lay in her ability to surround herself with people who were good role models. She says: “Think about people you admire, study how they do things and see whether you can adopt some of their habits.”

7 Forgive yourself.

Everyone experiences failure. But berating yourself solves nothing. When Billy Joel was in his early 20s his musical career was at a stand-still. He says, “My girl had run out, I’d had this succession of lousy jobs. . . so I popped a bunch of pills. It didn’t work, so I tried again by swallowing furniture polish.”

Fortunately, Joel recovered and sought professional help to deal with his feelings. An important aspect of Joel’s success was his ability to forgive himself. “I’ve learned that you have got to forgive yourself at times and grow from failure instead of letting it destroy you.”

Using these steps to strengthen self-esteem will empower you to be a happier and more loving person, increase your chance for success and lead to greater fulfillment in life.

You deserve It!

SOHHAH :The first ever Cameroon Academy awards Dec 29th Hilton Hotel Yaounde

In the promise of another tomorrow, we stand today to secure our rich cultural heritage full with diversity and artistic value.

Cameroon Academy Awards (SONNAH) is an annual Award Ceremony designed to celebrate the very best of Cameroon miniature in entertainment and rich culture through Filmography, music, fashion, television and sports. This avenue will continually serve as a means to promote love, unity and harmony amongst talents in different disciplines and background in our bilingual fatherland and ultimately, expose and promote the best of Cameroon acts to our nation and Diaspora at large.

SONNAH concept is based on rewarding excellence and it is designed to resonate with Cameroon entertainment lovers, home and in the Diaspora, It will solely serve as a forum for creating a platform that will ensure continuous rewarding of individuals or groups that have exemplified competence, diligence and innovation in the African film making profession, music, fashion, sport and television and showcasing our best talents to the rest of the World.

SONNAH’s primary focus is to reward outstanding TALENTS in Cameroon and the world at large . In addition, Musical performances, Exhibitions, and display of top African brands will be side attractions during the event.

SONNAH OBJECTIVE

Ø It’s to provide a forum for all Cameroonians to celebrate African movies, music, designers, athletes, television host and their creative delivery.

Ø Create an Award Show that would be a mark of excellence and celebrate the unique values that hold us together as one nation.

Promote love, unity and harmony amongst artist and talents of all entertainment industry in different background and cultures. Ultimately, expose the best of our acts to African and the World

Our mandate is to:

Honor outstanding achievements in Cameroon entertainment and television.
Heighten public awareness and increase audience attendance, viewership, and appreciation of Cameroon film, music, fashion, sport and television productions through its national Award program.
Provide wide range of industry-related professional development programs
Provide a forum for all Cameroonians to celebrate African movies, designers, athletes and their creative delivery.
Create an Award Show that would be a mark of excellence & celebrate the unique values that hold us together as one nation.
Promote love, unity and harmony amongst Actors, Directors, Producers, Script-Writers, and Executive Producers of different background and cultures, and in other entertainments and ultimately, expose the best of our talents to Africa and the world at large.

Musical performances, Exhibitions, and display of top African brands will be side attractions during the event.

more on this can be found at www.cameroonacademyawards.com

How to Be the Ideal Girl

Learn to love yourself. This is probably the most vital part of the process. Believe it or not, no matter how bad you feel about yourself, you are not alone. So many girls, especially during adolescence, feel depressed or in competition with others. Take a look at yourself. What are your best personal features? Maybe you are the top in your class: Do people tease you about that? Just think that in ten years time, you will be in a successful, well-paid job! Maybe you're bigger than your friends: Don't feel you have to diet, just choose clothes that suit you, get enough exercise, and smile...anyway, most people first notice your smile before anything else.

Smile. Brush your teeth and use a whitening mouthwash at least twice a day, and use a tongue cleaner before brushing in the morning. During the day, if you're allowed chew whitening gum whenever possible.

Do not chew gum in school/libraries/in interviews/at work. There is nothing worse than gum falling out of your mouth at an important moment.
Exercise. You don't need to fork out on expensive gym memberships. All you really need is a good set of trainers! You can run around the block, cycle to the local shop on errands, or get off the bus a stop early. Every little thing helps. Also, the fresh air works wonders on conditions such as acne! Bonus!

Correct your posture. Stand up. Place your left foot in a direct vertical line downwards from your shoulder. Place your right foot's heel at the arch of your left foot, and turn out about 20*. See? Easy elegance. This not only makes you appear more poised and glamorous, but it also makes your legs seem slimmer! When walking, look straight ahead, with your shoulders down and comfortably back. Imagine a wire coming from your head to the sky which you must not bend or move. There! The perfect posture. When sitting, try not to slouch. If you can, sit all the way back on your chair, with your feet on the floor, and your back on the back of the seat. If you often come home feeling tight and sore around your neck and shoulders, take time to lie flat on the floor and stretch. Then lie upside-down on the sofa with your head pointing towards the ground. This will help elongate the spine and help to relieve the aches.

Have fun. What do you love doing? If you're a beach bum at heart, try to swim as much as possible, and get to the beach whenever you can. Just add mates and plenty of sun cream and you have a great day.

Be physically gorgeous. In terms of clothing, always try before you buy. Something that looks great on your best mate may not look so good on you. Only choose clothes that suit your body shape, your coloring and your personal lifestyle. Don't choose something just because it's high fashion; focus on classic pieces which you can wear and love forever.

Choose the right accessories. In terms of jewelry and accessories, don't go over board. Massive faux gold creoles teamed with huge 'bling' is NEVER a good look. Stick to simple but classic pieces. An over sized pendant, simple diamond/diamante studs, and a sophisticated string of pearls will never go out of fashion. Throw on a simple black handbag (T K Maxx always have a large selection of quality leather bags), a pair of sunglasses to suit your face type (again, don't choose a high fashion pair because A: they'll go out of fashion quickly and B: they can make you look ridiculous!) and a silk scarf and you're done!

Get great skin. To maintain great skin, have a simple beauty routine. Exfoliate your face in the shower (use a scrub such as Neutrogena or Clean and Clear, which are designed for young skin). Nivea Visage Gentle Cleansing Lotion keeps skin soft and blemish free. Garnier Pure SOS Pen gets rid of anything. It's even worked on a cold sore! For body moisturizer, try The Body Shop's Pomegranate Body Butter, which keeps skin smooth and supple. NOTE: Never, and I repeat, never, use body moisturizer on your face. Often, they're are far too oily and scented which can irritate the sensitive facial skin. For deodorant, Mitchum's 48h Protection spray is fantastic, as it lasts from dawn till dusk! One must have beauty product is Carmex Lip Balm, which cures chapped, dry or sore lips instantly!

Look fantastic. Finally, make up. For the day-time, simplicity is key. Use Witch concealer (hides spots and heals them at the same time) to hide blemishes, Rimmel Clear Complexion pressed powder (which is designed for younger skin), and Maybelline Colossal Volum' Express mascara are the best for this purpose. NOTE: If your lashes aren't naturally curly, use a normal pair of eyelash curlers to give them a sexy boost. For an evening/part look, you can have a bolder look. Use all the above products, and then add some subtle eyeliner (Rimmel is good for this as they offer many different colors), Rimmel Bronzer (delicately applied please!), and some 'wow' eye shadow will give you a fresh faced 'femme fatale' appearance.

Work hard. Whether you're at college, middle school or sixth form, getting grades is massively important. Working hard earlier on makes life easier later on when it comes to finding a job, paying the bills, or attracting the man of your dreams. Organize your school work and get useful apps. If your school mates are giving you a hard time for being clever, just think that in ten years time you'll be better off than them, both in a career, finances and relationships. Being a well paid business woman is much cooler than working in McDonald's for your whole life.

Eat well. Make sure you eat 5 portions of fruit and veg. every day. An easy way to do this is by having chopped banana on your cereal at breakfast, an apple at break or on the bus, a salad for lunch, and two portions of veg. with your tea. Also, make sure that you drink enough water a day. If you begin to feel hungry, have a glass of water before eating. This will help you not to over eat, and often, you will feel hungry if you're actually thirsty!

Find yourself a talent. Try learning a musical instrument, like the saxophone. Join a local music group; not only are these a great way to improve your skill, but it's a great way to make like minded friends and guys! Or maybe you could learn a language; you can travel all over the world and communicate with locals, making your stay so much more fun. You can also meet lots of people that you wouldn't ordinarily meet through a language! You may be really good at sports so join a dance class or soccer class. Why not give it a go? It's easier than you may think! Just think of all the wonderful people you could meet!

Be yourself. Don't ever change yourself to meet the pressures of your peers. If someone gives you criticism, just think: 'Do I trust the person?' 'Do I value their advice?' 'Do they have a point?'. After saying yes to all these questions, consider taking action on the criticism. If the answers are no, just brush them off...they're probably jealous anyway! Finally, never change for a guy. If he doesn't appreciate you for how you really are, he will never love you as truly as you want. Keep your eyes open for that guy who will appreciate you, you never know, he could be hiding in the least likely place!

Remember that what constitutes "ideal" is a matter of opinion. Your idea of "ideal" might be very different from somebody else's. So, you should try to be what YOU think is ideal -- not what somebody else tells you is ideal.

xoxo; Manka