Snapshots: Go Ghana Go!

Written By: Jamelia Mmari—As the last African team standing in this year's World Cup, we're all rooting for Ghana. Go Ghana Go!

(Photo Credits: iStockPhoto / MissHibiscus)

The Ghanaian And Nigerian Hit Makers: Tinchy Stryder And Taio Cruz

An "Oldie" But Goodie: Zoe's Golden Rebellion

Written By: MIM!—Zoe's Golden Rebellion may have been released in 2007, but the album remains in heavy rotation, especially during the summer, because of it's sweet reggae sounds. With a voice that's a cross between Nneka and Marie Daulne (of Zap Mama), you'll likely enjoy the album if you're a fan of natural (read: not overly produced) reggae.

(Photo Credits: CD Cover Art)

She Defines Soul.Substance.Style (No. 012): Somi

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Written By: MIM!—A true multicultural woman, Somi was born in Illinois to immigrants from Rwanda and Uganda, then spent her early childhood in Zambia. The African cultural legacy, always crucial to her sound, is as vital as ever in her current music, which Somi likes to call New African Soul. But so too is the music she heard upon relocating to New York, with American jazz singers like Nina Simone and Sarah Vaughan. Blending tradition and modernity, like the jazz greats—Miriam Makeba, Cesaria Evora and Sade—who paved the path for her, Somi is adding her own musical interpretation and leaving a musical footprint as this generation's voice of African soul and jazz. Hear more from this woman of Soul.Substance.Style by visiting www.somimusic.com.

(Photo Credits: Matthew Furman)

She's Just Like Magic: Zamajobe

Just "Bee" You

Written By: MIM!—We ♥ Beeing's summer ad campaign, and of course their culturally aware t-shirts. Visit www.ilovebeeing.com for more.

MIMI Related Posts: We ♥ Bernos Tees; Kina Klothing: African To A Tee

Bringing Africa To A Closet Near You: Zulu Rose Summer Sale

Written By: MIM!—One of our favorite Afri-chic designers, Zulu Rose, is having a summer sale. Don't miss out on a chance to own one of their eye-catching graphic tees.

Stella Mwangi Puts A Smile On Her Fans' Faces

Written By: Nani Hapa—This past week, on June 14th, our favorite "go-getta" Stella Mwangi released the second single off of her upcoming project. The track, Smile, is a synth-bupple-pop song, that's perfect for the summer. You can hear the single by visiting Stella's official website: www.stellamwangi.com, and if you missed her first single, Favorite, you can get the details right here on MIMI's blog.

The girl is busy, but check out the next issue of MIMI, where Stella Mwangi is not only going to have a feature story, but she's also going to be on the cover! I can't share too much about the cover as it's still a work in progress, but I will share that Stella did a modern update on a retro look for the photoshoot that only she could pull off and she's never looked better. If you want to be a part of the next issue of MIMI, get the details here.

MIMI's Poetry Corner: Daughter Of The Diaspora

Written By: Itoro Udofia—

I live here now

Was born here and may die here now

Memories are rooted in stirring fufu in a tiny pot now

Fufu made out of jiffy mix

Bought at a Price Chopper (exactly 2 dollars and fifty cents)

Put it in a pot and stir till it becomes nice and thick

"It's supposed to clump together and should be able to form itself into a ball," Mama would say, "But remember child...real fufu don't really taste that way."

"We're trying to get the flavor I was used to back home." Mama would say, say to me.

"Does it come close?" I respond.

Mama laughs, "Not really."

I live here now

Memories are rooted in eating fufu when it's 5 degrees out

Or singing Nigerian gospel songs quietly instead of singing out loud

Mama says, "We usually sing these songs out loud till everyone sings... but we'll try to sing these songs more quietly. Can't wake the neighbors now."

My voice carries little traces of another place

I'm not anything like Mama

Memories are rooted in reading Morrison and singing like Nina now

And finding any black woman who looks like my image

Mama says, "Child, you are African but you're different now. You're a child born in America. And you'll experience different layers of pains and pressures now. So you can teach me and I'll teach you. 'Cause I'm thinking of going back home and home seems to be here for you...now."

Mama's been trying to get me to go back...back home

"I'd like us to live there some day," Mama says, says to me

She's speaking as if she's caught in a dream

"We'll eat real fufu, sing Nigerian gospels loudly, and it won't be 5 degrees out."

Mama says.

I think it would be nice to go...and see,

"But I don't think I can stay there Mama...I think I'm meant to be here now."

Mama breaks out of her nostalgia.

"True child," Mama says, says to me,

"You live here now. You'll visit but you may not stay...guess we'll have to wait and see. Guess we'll have to wait and see...now."

. . .

Go inside Itoro's creatively inspiring world by visiting her blog: www.thoughtsofmymind-itoro.blogspot.com.

Preview: N'Kya Designs Maxi 2010 Collection

MIMI Related Links: Coming Attraction: Obsidian Launches The CONTROL Collection; Afri Couture In Vogue: House Of Versatile Styles

(Photo Credits: N'Kya Designs)

N'Kya Designs "Wiki" Collection, A Different Bag For Every Day Of The Week

Written By: Nani Hapa—N'Kya Designs is out with a new collection of handbags, fittingly called "Wiki" as each one is inspired by a different day of the week. For more, visit www.nkyadesignsuk.com.

(Photo Credits: N'Kya Designs)

Africa Online: The Model Bloggers Edition

Written By: MIM!—"Do I have to get nude to be a supermodel?" Tanzania's Flaviana Matata asks this provocative question as she shares her perspective on what it is like to be a Tanzanian model grounded in traditional values while working in a profession. She continues:

Modeling in Tanzania is a relative[ly] new profession and has been misjudged often to be a promiscuous job. It has taken time to gain some acceptance within the society. But what makes things more difficult has been the more modern clothes that are often short or revealing. For instance, posing in a swimsuit could be deemed ‘immoral’ or ‘loose’, and may even result in the family exerting influence on models to stop modeling. Swimsuits have slowly become more acceptable in everyday and also in magazines although tolerance is still very little in the case of local models.

Read more from Flaviana by visiting her Global Grind blog at: www.globalgrind.com/user/flavianamatata.

. . .

"I love giving advice and helping as much as I can so feel free to contact me if you also need any advice" blogs Eritrean model Elsabel Yemane. And it's true. On her blog, Model Behavior, Elsabel gives an insider's perspective about what it is like try and make it as a model: castings, photoshoots ... and in case it doesn't work out, a Plan B, university. Visit www.elsabelonline.blogspot.com for more model behavior.

. . .

"I look much younger than my actual age," Iman shares on her blog. Exactly how old is Iman? Who really cares when she shares refreshingly candid posts about everything from her spending habits on what she calls "a Bowie budget" to music, fashion ... and even health. Read more by visiting: www.imancosmetics.com/blog.

MIMI Related Links: Africa Online: The Bridal Bliss Edition, Africa Online: The Think Different Edition, African Blogs: The Fashionista Edition

Autumn Adeigbo Opens Online Store

Written By: MIM!—Designer Autumn Adeigbo has been on the collective radars of Manhattan Afri-nistas and fashionistas alike; now, with the launch of her online store, shop.autumnadeigbo.com, her oh so girly and pretty collection is available to MIMI-istas whether they're in Lagos or Los Angeles. Visit www.autumnadeigbo.com for more details; happy shopping!

(Photo Credits: Autumn Adeigbo)

J'Adore: Boxing Kitten Spring 2010 Resort Collection

Written By: Nani Hapa—Boxing Kitten's Spring 2010 Resort Collection is all about exciting colors, vibrant prints, and vintage-inspired silhouettes. J'adore! See the entire Boxing Kitten Resort Collection by visiting their site and reviewing their look book.

(Photo Credits: Kwesi Abbensetts for Boxing Kitten)

Fela! Picks Up Three Tony Awards

Written By: MIM!—Tonight, Fela!, the musical about Afro-beat legend Fela Kuti won three of the eleven Tony awards for which it was nominated: best choreography, best costume design, and best sound design. Only further confirmation that this is definitely one to see if you're going to be in New York this summer.

(Photo Credits: ©Monique Carboni)

Aminatta Forna's The Devil That Danced On Water, A Daughter's Memoir

Written By: Nicole Parker-Jones—Journalist turned novelist Aminatta Forna saw her father for the last time on July 30, 1974; she was 10 years old. Her father, a prominent political figure, was convicted for allegedly attempting a coup to overturn the government and as a result executed.

In The Devil That Danced On Water, Aminatta searches for the truth about her father's execution in Sierra Leone. Part memoir, part history, the book is an unmatched look at Sierra Leonean politics told in a riveting story.

I am a big fan of Aminatta's work and also recommend her most recent book, The Memory Of Love, currently available in the UK.

Snapshots: School Days

Written By: Jamelia Mmari—Remember school days? Memories :)

(Photo Credits: © iStockPhoto / Hans Martens Fotografie)

From The Archives: Summer Loving

Written By: Mimi Tsiane—It's hot out there and if you are in my neck of the woods then it's probably scorching hot. While the rest of the world may be guzzling water and taking refuge in their homes, you can make the most of your summer by keeping your life and style as hot as the weather. Here's how:

1. Lay it on thick. Sun screen, sun block? Yes, contrary to popular belief black skin does require protection from the sun rays. So give the baby oil a rest and invest in a product that will not only give you skin a little shimmer but give it a boost of 30 (SPF).

2. Love it. Life that is. Waiting for that phone to ring, staring at your cell phone furiously, so yesterday. This summer make a pact; be responsible for your happiness. Go out, travel (road trip, weekend getaway, or go all out by getting on a plane to a vacation destination) and take advantage of the warm weather.

3. Live it up. Try something new and fun. Use local newspapers, or your local library as resources for the latest happenings in your neighborhood such as festivals and fares. Alternatively, make your own fun by inviting family and friends for a braai (barbecue), add a little music and usher the summer with a little style.

4. Laugh it off. Laughter is the best medication. Yes, I said medication! Find something that tickles you. Whether it is a movie, going to a comedy club or spending time with that friend that you find hysterical. Enjoy the little pleasures in life.

5. Lounge around. The days are longer, the nights sweltering with heat and possibility. This is a great time to read a book, have a facial, pedicure, take longer showers or anything else to indulge yourself. If you're not flying solo, snuggle with a loved one and enjoy some much needed quiet time under the stars.

(Photo Credits: iStockPhoto / Green Pimp) (Originally Published: May 2007)

Evans Amaoko Shows Off His Team Spirit

Written By: MIM!—Ghanaian fitness model Evans Amaoko recently shot photos paying homage to this year's World Cup.

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If, like us, looking at Evans' physique has you doing mental sit-ups, check out his article The Right Fit for his summer fitness tips.

(Photo Credits: Awfullypretty and Thomas Cummings)

Write For MIMI Magazine's Upcoming Issue

Written By: MIM!—MIM! is written by women just like you—our team is made up of women (and men) with a passion for Africa and the Diaspora who face the same issues, aspire to achieve the same dreams, and share the same stories. We would like you to be a part of the voice of this generation's African women. If you have an article you'd like to see published in MIM! or simply an idea for an article, we’d love to hear from you. Pass your article(s) or idea(s) along by emailing mimimagazineonline[at]gmail.com, and remember, if you would like to be in MIM!, find out how here.

(Photo Credits: © Dreamstime / Dndavis)

The World Cup According To Shakira And Freshlyground v. The World Cup According To K'Naan

Written By: MIM!—Both Shakira (featuring Freshlyground) and K'Naan have released songs for this year's World Cup in South Africa. So tell us, which song do you think best represents the spirit of the World Cup?

Have An Afro-Inspired Summer! MIMI’s Guide To An African–Inspired Summer In Chicago

Written By: Mazuba Kapambwe and Fanele Chester—From food to festivals, having an afro-inspired summer in the city of brotherly love, Chicago, is at your fingertips with these activities:

1. Festivals: African and Caribbean Fest of Life, Washington Park from July 2 - 5 ($10) and Africa Festival of the Arts, September 3 - 6.

2. Food: Ethiopian Diamond; Demera Ethiopian Restaurant; and Yassa African Restaurant (Senegalese) ... the list is long here!

3. Theatre: Sizwe Banzi is Dead, Court Theatre on June 13.

4. Sports: World Cup, July 11 at Soldier Field, hosted by the South African General Consulate.

5. Clubs: The Shrine "From Fela to Funk: Revolutionary Sounds," June 9th; Wild Hare (1/2 price for college students); and Reggae Thursdays at Subterranean (FREE for ladies).

6. Dance: Tamboula Ethinic Dance Company Workshop and Afro-Haitian Dance Workshops until June 7th.

7. History: Africa Speaks Exhibition (ongoing) and African Presence in Mexico (August).

Weekend Chillin With Wale

Written By: MIM!—We don't know what it is about this track that just feels like summer—maybe it's the fact that we literally want to stay chillin' when the summer heat is blazing, maybe it's the "na na na na" chanting that sounds like cheering in a soccer stadium, or maybe it's simply the fact that it was a hit just one summer ago! Whatever it is, we're starting the weekend off listenting to Wale's Chillin' featuring Lady Gaga.

VLISCO Launches Bag Line

Written By: MIM!—With its vibrant textiles Vlisco has weaved its brand into the fabric of West and Central African fashion. Now, Vlisco is looking to leave its fashion footprint in high-end leather bags with the launch of the Vlisco Haute Maroquinerie collection. Using their expertise in textiles as a launching pad for the new collection, some bags will be manufactured with a specific design from Vlisco's fabric collection.

The Vlisco Haute Maroquinerie collection is available in Vlisco Boutiques in Cotonou (Republic of Benin), Lomé (Togo), Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of the Congo), and online at Vlisco's online boutique: www.vlisco.com.

(Photo Credits: VLISCO)

Leo Ni Siku Yangu

Written By: MIM!—Explore the world wide web in Swahili: www.google.co.tz.

UjU, It's Zulu For Honey And Sweet Music

Written By: Nani Hapa—Melody makers UjU (comprised of lead vocalist and poet Ntuthu Ndlovu, percussionist and rapper Wandile Molebatsi, bass guitarist Mosebetsi Nzimande and rhythm guitarist Earl Joseph) make music that is nothing short of liberating. Fittingly, their debut album, which was released this year, is titled Free. Combining many soulful genres to create a distinctly sweet South African sound, UjU's music is genuinely original. Visit www.myspace.com/ujuband and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite band.

(Photo Credits: CD Cover Art)

The Best Of MIMI Magazine: True Star: Genevieve Nnaji (Behind The Story)

Written By: MIM!—Without a doubt, our January 2006 issue featuring Genevive Nnaji on the cover of MIMI has been the most popular and widely-read issue of the magazine to date. This really speaks to how broad and international a fan base Genevieve has. MIMI is one of the few, if not the only, publication that is circulated worldwide and has interviewed Genevieve in-depth. For that reason, a lot of Genevieve’s fans outside of Nigeria have connected with the January 2006 issue of MIMI because it offers them a rare glimpse into the actress’s world. So much so that when producers from the Oprah Winfrey Show were looking to include Genevive Nnaji in a show about fame around the world, they contacted MIMI about reaching out to Genevieve.

Editor-in-Chief, Lola Kingo shares about the world famous interview, “It should come as no surprise that Genevieve Nnaji tops my list of all-time favorite interviews! When I reached out to her then publicist, I thought that getting an interview with Genevieve would be a long-shot because the magazine was so new at the time, but her team was terrific and not only did they agree to do the interview, they set up a photo shoot with photographer Gary Fitzpatrick, that produced some of the most popular photographs of Genevieve ... Poised, polished, and powerful, Genevieve is a phenomenal force in African film and easily the most famous Nollywood actress in the world, but what I was most impressed by in interviewing her was her grace and humility. She is in every sense, a True Star! ”

It's exciting to now share never before seen photographs from our True Star interview.

MIMI's Fabulous Find Of The Month: Aiyda Clutch

Written By: MIM!—We ♥ this £30.00 scarlet handmade leather clutch by Ethiopian designer Aiyda. Visit www.aiyda.com for more details.

(Photo Credits: Aiyda)

The Best Of MIMI Magazine: Menaye Donkor On Beauty (Behind The Story)

Written By: MIM!—We first interviewed Menaye Donkor for the October 2007 feature story, Mighty Menaye, but it was her subsequent December 2007 interview On Beauty, which MIMI-istas overwhelmingly responded to. One reader, Siatta Mansaray from Sierra Leone, shared with us, “I love many, many of your articles. Pretty much all of them. I especially liked the one of Menaye Donkor. She's gorgeous. When I read of what she went through in middle and high school, it reminded me of myself! She is such an inspiration and a great role-model, not only for Ghanian girls but for all African girls. Thank you for introducing me to her. ”

VLISCO's Sparkling Dreams Lookbook: The Most Fashionable One Yet

Written By: MIM!—Raving about VLISCO's fabric collections is par for the course in the exclusive enclaves of African fashion. Magazine editors, boutique buyers, and fashionistas laud VLISCO's designs for delivering epic Afri-chic style. The spring/summer Sparkling Dreams collection is no different; the spectacular collection shines!