Non-Profit

Africa Faith and Justice Network

Founded

March 1983

Website

www.afjn.org

Name

Jacques Bahati
Policy Analyst

Age

35

Hometown

Goma, North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Current residence

Silver Spring, Maryland

Education

Catholic Theological Union
Master’s in Ethic and Cross-cultural Studies
(2007)

Catholic Theological Union
Master’s of Divinity
(2006)

La Ruzizi
Bachelor’s in Philosophy
(2000)

Work Experience

AFJN
Policy Analyst
September 2007-Present
Intern
August 2006

AVA (Association des Vieullards Abandones)
Co-founder

Christ Medical Center, Clinical Pastoral Education
Oak Lawn, IL
Chaplain Resident
September 2006-August 2007
Chaplain Intern
Summer 2004

Anowin Center
Catechist
December 2005-April 2006

South West Chicago PADS
Volunteer
July 2004-August 2004

Sacred Heart Parish
Catechist
September 2003-September 2004

Cook County Juvenile Detention in Chicago
Intern
Winter 2001

Youth Reach Out Retreat
Young Adult Leader
October 2001-September 2003

Ethnicity

Munyabwisha

About the non-profit

Africa Faith and Justice Network is an Africa-advocacy organization that works to promote a more responsible US foreign policy in Africa. For the past 25 years, AFJN has been engaged in high-level advocacy in Washington, DC to bring about a shift in American policy and mentality. As a Catholic-based organization, we work with Catholic communities and other on the ground in Africa and in the United States to promote our message of peace and justice transformation.

Inspired by the Gospel and informed by Catholic Social Teaching, AFJN has conducted policy analysis and advocacy on issues such as hunger, conflict resolution, international debt, trade, and food security. Currently, AFJN is focusing its energies on three new areas of concern:

• Promoting restorative justice as an element of conflict resolution,
• Opposing the harmful goals of the new US-Africa military command (AFRICOM)
• Preparing for the 2009 African Synod.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

Researching and writing analysis on African issues that AFJN is involved in such as HIV/AIDS, violent conflict prevention, peace, Justice, debt, good governance, restorative justice, trade, water, The catholic Church African synod and much more. As an advocate for African nations to the US government, I attend meetings that are offered on Capitol Hill, the state department and a wide variety of organizations which have the same concerns as AFJN.

I am also a resource person for our membership on the issues that we are working on. I attend African summits organized by communities with a focus on African issues throughout the US. These are either events sponsored by the dioceses or parishes within dioceses, or universities. I attend conferences on different issues to deepen my understanding of different issues for a thorough analysis and personal formation and information gathering. This is also a way to network with other organizations, find other members and create awareness of the African people’s faith, strength, hopes and challenges.

Most notable milestones

From a 10-year-old boy in the countryside of Kazuba in the DR Congo walking to and from school for an hour and half to holding three degrees and several certificates is humbling.

Being married to a loving, caring, great, intelligent and beautiful woman Felicia R. Wells from Chicago, Illinois is a blessing.

Having been a co-founder of (AVA) Association Des Vieullards Abandonnes (Association for Abandoned Elderly) that became a ministry in many of parishes in the Bukavu city is humbling too.

What's the niche?

AFJN is the only Catholic-based, non-profit, advocacy organization focused on Africa. Though our network is open to people of all faiths and persuasions, much of our support and methods of advocacy stem from the Catholic Church.

What's the biggest challenge?

To emotionally stay detached from the horrible stories of injustices, oppression, exploitation and other kinds of victimization that African people are subjected to from local and foreign powers is the biggest challenge. At some points I wonder if these people doing harm to others have a heart. My faith that teaches me to be hopeful is my great help in dealing with such frustration.

What's in store for the future?

I hope that one day, at God’s time to bring people from the margin to the center I will be chosen by him to hold an office that would allow me to be part of this job that God entrusts to many, but they turned their back against him serving themselves and making friends with those in power only.

In addition, with Steve and Anne Hall, a couple from Connecticut, we are finalizing paperwork on “Healthy Congo, INC” a non profit that is to bring awareness on HIV/AID in the Rural area forgotten by all in the DR Congo. I hope to make this an experiential opportunity for people to go to the Congo for a short or a long term to share their talents, give and receive blessings working with the people of the DR Congo. The end of January 2008, my friend Jackie Griffin, a Registered Nurse who works at the University of Loyola Hospital in Chicago and a member of the St. Anne church project is going to the Congo for a year. A group from St. Anne will be going late April and my wife and I will be going early 2008 to contribute personally on the work on the ground in addition to what we do here.

Finally, I will submit my paperwork to be certified as a chaplain with the National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC) to be certified as a chaplain.

Please go into more detail about your other non-profit organizations

Association des Vieullards Abandones is an organization born to respond to the growing number of elderly bagging on the streets of Bukavu as a result of the war in the D.R. Congo that begun in 1996.

Anowin Center is a Native American Catholic Church community in Chicago.

South West Chicago PADS is a homeless shelter in Chicago.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

The best way to keep competitive in the domain of working for justice and peace is to “have the information” for a better understanding of what is going on and take appropriate action in opposing and exposing the evil of oppression, corruption, self-service, war, injustice and much more. It is also to have faith that there is a future for those who survive the victimization. From Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I keep these words as a way to help me stay on the battlefield for justice and peace: “The aftermath of nonviolence is the creation of the beloved community, but the one of violence is tragic bitterness.”

Also he said that “the privileged group rarely give up their privileges without strong resistance.” At AFJN, we resist any kind of policies that aim to put people of Africa down. For example, many African leaders want to be eternal leaders even if they are not helpful in any way. When they finish their mandates, they change the constitution to continue to enjoy the privilege that comes with their position. Nations such as the US supported many of these behaviors for their interest. Our goal is to do all that is in our power to change such ways of government.

Guiding principle in life

“Humility is the key to every door.” With this I am able to relate and find my place among the poor and the weak in our society as well among the rich, the powerful and the influential.

Yardstick of success

The number of people who benefit from what I do is my yardstick. For me it is unacceptable that wealth is in the hands of a few. In the DR Congo, my county of origin, the rich, the powerful, the influential even want to take what little that the poor have. This is why bringing about equality is key to my work and mission. Some people suffer as a result of others. I know that we can do better than this. At AFJN, as we draw our inspiration from the Gospel.

This is why in my best guide in my work is Matthew 25: 35b-36 “… I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” This for me is success, not the money you make a year. I have an example from my other nonprofit organization activities.

My friend Jackie Griffin an RN working at the University of Chicago Hospitals is leaving the big money she makes to go to the DR Congo work on our school and health care project. She will volunteer to live on the minimum amount possible to pay her health care insurance, food and be able to go back home once a year to reconnect with her family. The good news is that the number of people she will touch is greater than the money she would make. At AFJN, I make no much money, but the impact I make in advocating for people whose voice has been ignored is exceptional.

Goal yet to be achieved

To be a peacemaker by negotiating peace where there is violent or possible violent conflict. I believe that God had blessed me with a forgiving heart that cares and that through my work and me he can bring peace where there is war and conflict.

Best practical advice

Time heals. In serious matters please take time to think before you speak and be slow to anger. I learned this from my transformational book, The Bible. One who follows this advice puts first values instead of might, mercy instead of revenge, love instead of hate, hope instead of fear, converses instead of shouts, is moderate instead of extremist, is humble instead of proud, listens instead of being indifferent and helps instead of hurts.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

My father, Ntamabyaliro Maheshe Edouard, always said “providing you with education is my obligation. Take it seriously and you will never be anyone’s slave, refused it and you will even be a servant of your brothers.”

From my professor at Catholic Theological Union Dawn Northwehr, O.S.F, after reading a paper I wrote, she said “You should enroll in the Master’s in Ethics program. You have good ideas.” She nurtured me and what she saw in me happened.

From my mother, the day I was moving from the Congo to Cameroon, she took me aside, said a prayer of blessing and said: “Just do good and you will find your family everywhere you go” It has been true and on my wedding day, many were surprised the number of people I knew who attended.

Mentors?

My parents for being hospitable to who ever came to us from anywhere, for whatever reason. My father would wave debts of some people because they were not able to pay.

Rev. Georgio Agustini, a Xaverian Missionary who was my formation director when I was in the seminary in Bukavu. For him, life can happen if we make it easy for those we live with and those we encounter or work with. He lead our effort to bring relief, bring the wounded to the hospital, feed the hungry, provide shelter to weak and the poor during the war in the DR Congo in 1996. He is a model of being and lives a positive life for me.

Finally, my father for loving my mother who was ill for most of her life. He never left her even under pressure of many of his associates to find a healthy wife, but he took her to the best doctors we could afford in Uganda, in the Congo etc. Today we are a family, happy and all together.

What motivated you to get started?

I am involved in so many things that I do not know what to speak about. I co-started many things namely the Association for Abandoned Elderly in the Congo, networked with the St. Anne parish in Barrington which led to the school building and health care project in my home parish, on the way is “Healthy Congo, INC” to bring HIV awareness in the rural Congo. The motivation is my passion for the poor. I would summarize this motivation in these words: “I have, therefore we have” I will never feel fully happy if there still people who are poor, under served, fearful and marginalized because of injustice, greed or militarism, tribalism, and all the -isms.

Like best about what you do?

Letting the world know other people’s struggles through my writings and advocating for change on their behalf. Also, when people get help as a result of my networking and advocacy, I feel happy.

Like least about what you do?

The editing work before publishing is my disliking. I have ideas, but I am not the best writer. However, the good news is that the world needs people with ideas as well as those with best writing skills.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a teacher like my father. Later I wanted to be a priest. I went to the seminary for 10 years. A year before I was to be ordained, I decided to take the road of a lay minister involved in social justice.

What was your first job?

I worked at the Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, IL as a chaplain Resident. My interest in medical ethics and my passion for ministry lead me to doing chaplaincy. It was a humbling experience in addition to learning skills in clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). I supported people in different situations and their families. Those who suggest to not take life for granted are right. I saw the limitations of our bodies and the power of our spirits. How can one be so much in pain and with no hope for quality of life and still find meaning to life? Many gave up, but some held on. The people I served are in my memory for ever to be remembered.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Watching documentaries, talking to friends on the phone, networking, listening to music.

Person most interested in meeting?

Bill Gates, I would like him to fund some projects that I am involved in.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

The CNN television channel director so that I can ask them to dedicate some time in covering African stories.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. Peacemaker and fighter for justice
2. Charitable
3. Family person

Three characteristics that describe you

1. People person
2. Forgiving
3. Hopeful in all things

Three greatest passions

1. Religion
2. Reading to educate myself on any subject
3. Traveling to network

Favorite book

First, the Holy Bible for personal transformation and second among many I like “Pedagogy of the Oppressed” by Paulo Freire. Like The Bible, books and other resources are empowering for me in getting the information for my intellectual and some times human formation. With a book like “Pedagogy of the Oppressed,” I am inspired and become creative as I build up my personal opinion and approach. This becomes my contribution to all kinds of oppression that is going on in the world. It allows me to expose what some people are hiding and oppose and confront them to the truth not for myself, but for the common good (Justice and peace for all).

One of my favorite quotes from this book is “… the oppressed must not, in seeking to regain their humanity…, become in turn oppressors of the oppressors, but rather restorers of the humanity of both.” (p 44)

Favorite cause

The rule of law, justice, peace and end of corruption in leadership in Africa.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Eternal thanks for asking me to be part of this great initiative.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Senator Barack Obama so that we can talk about common interests and US foreign policy, justice, and peace.

Want to get in touch with Jacques Bahati?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-africana/~3/xH9xIaBRQiQ/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/angela-page-africana/#comments Fri, 12 Oct 2007 15:37:28 +0000 admin The AfricanaConnect The Young & Professional Profile Entrepreneur Art & Design http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/angela-page-africana/

Angela Page, 33, took her finance degree and her love of design and turned them into a successful business. Stepping outside the box, she chose to leave the security of a corporate job and pursue her dream. The result? Le Creatif Designs, LLC., a successful interior design consulting firm launched in 2000. In 2007 Angela will open Le Creatif Design Gallery, which will offer quality, fashionable and unique furniture to the sophisticated client. Angela's success is due in large part to her outlook on life, "Your dreams will inspire you but your goals will keep you moving in the right direction." This belief has carried her through the many challenges of a small business owner. In 2005, she was awarded the Miller Urban Entrepreneur Series Business Plan Contest, which enabled her to invest more in her business. Angela's accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, in 2007 she was nominated Black Enterprise Magazine's Rising Star of the year. To learn more about Angela and how she turned her dreams into a successful business, read on in this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Company

Le Creatif Designs, LLC
Le Creatif Design Gallery will open its doors Summer 2007

Founded

March 2000

Website

www.lecreatifdesigns.com

Name

Angela Page
Owner/Interior Designer

Age

33

Hometown

Providence, Rhode Island

Current residence

Atlanta, Georgia

Education

University of Rhode Island
BS in Accounting
(1996)

The Art Institute of Atlanta
BFA in Interior Design

Work Experience

Le Creatif Designs, LLC
Owner /Interior Designer
2000-Present

RBS Lynk
Finance Manager
2006-2007

The Coca-Cola Company
Senior Financial Analyst
2002-2006

Nova Information Systems
Senior Accountant
1999-2002

Circuit City Stores, Inc.
Finance Supervisor
1996-1999

Ethnicity

African American

About the company

Le Creatif Designs, LLC, is one of metro Atlanta’s most progressive interior design consulting firms. Launching my business in 2000, I believe I have made an indelible mark in the interior design industry. After more than seven years of success, Le Creatif Designs is expanding its services to further include retail sales with Le Creatif Design Gallery. The design gallery will offer high quality, fashionable, and unique furniture and home accessory pieces sure to please the sophisticated client with a discerning palette for creative design.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

As Le Creatif Designs expands to include Le Creatif Design Gallery, it presents new daily challenges. In addition to customer and vendor contacts, networking with business professionals and organizations, creating design layouts, and sourcing product to complete the designs I am so involved in setting up the gallery location from the design aspect as well as establishing all of the systems necessary to run the facility. I am also interviewing for various positions for the gallery.

Most notable milestones

Transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. It takes a lot to step away from the "security" that comes with a guaranteed paycheck. But when you notice your dreams and goals are one and the same when it comes to your career, you have to seriously look into yourself for the strength and faith to follow it.

What's the niche?

I have a unique blend of business acumen and creativity which makes owning a design firm a perfect fit for me. I love the idea of creating an empire that is basically limitless. I can continue to build the dream and open new galleries where the demographics work. Or I can build a firm here in Atlanta that encompasses every aspect of design or just one. Whatever the dream, I can make it come true because I understand how the business of design works. I know what drives the numbers and what creates new opportunities. And at the end of the day, I know what's hot when it comes to design.

What's the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge for me right now is financial. It is a difficult challenge to actually get small business financing from the traditional banks. Having the opportunity to be a grant award recipient of the Miller Urban Entrepreneurs Series Business Planning Contest in 2005 was a unique opportunity to assist me in financing my business. However, most small business owners do not have that opportunity. I put everything I have into this business because I believe in it and I know where its going. Having a bank to feel the same way would allow my more immediate goals to supersede anything this industry could imagine!

What's in store for the future?

In the very near future Le Creatif Design Gallery will open for business! The grand opening is scheduled for September. The gallery will feature furniture, accessories, and art. Some of which will be created by local artisans and craftsmen. Le Creatif Design Gallery is making a mark in the industry. We are going to make it our business to create a path of success for other entrepreneurs to follow.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Always stay on top of your education and your industry. That doesn't mean you have to keep going back to earn more degrees, but it is necessary to subscribe to industry publications, read books on your industry, find a mentor and/or be one. You'd be amazed what you will learn from teaching others. Challenge yourself to do it bigger, better and faster the next time you do it. You should never be satisfied with the status quo and you should never feel like you know it all. There is always something else to learn.

Guiding principle in life

Have dreams and have goals. But know enough to understand the difference. Your dreams will inspire you but your goals will keep you moving in the right direction.

Yardstick of success

Being able to give something back to those who are in the position you were in when you started. I look at those who contact me in regards to being "trapped" in corporate with a desire to follow their dreams and I try to make sure I give them the road map to success I followed and also offer words of advice. I look at the little girl in a class room with the world telling her she has to follow the math or science discipline in order to be successful and I offer her an opportunity to see the world of design through my eyes. At the end of the day, it's not about success. It's about significance. What significant difference have I made in someone's life.

Goal yet to be achieved

I would like to get the store opened. It is going to be a great accomplishment to actually close on the retail space and an even greater accomplishment to open the doors to the public.

Best practical advice

Be planful in your business ventures. Set small goals that will get you to your larger goals.

Mentor?

My dad because he is a realist. He keeps me grounded in my thought processes. At the end of the day we have completely different tolerances for risk taking. But I need to hear his conservative views in order to be sure I thought of all of the possible outcomes before I take a chance. He is a brilliant mind and a visionary, and just a little cautious!

What motivated you to get started?

I had a desire to be creative. I loved to express emotions through design ever since I could remember. I would invoke a feeling from a person when they entered my space before I ever knew what that meant. I knew if I had that kind of influence over people with my designs, I should do it more often and on a bigger scale to see what natural talents I could unleash.

Like best about what you do?

I like being able to take a space like a lump of molding clay and create a work of art. I love to look at the before shot and the after shot of a room and see the difference I have brought into the clients space.

Like least about what you do?

The thing I like least about what I do is that I can't do it all. I know I have an analytical part of me that wants to control every aspect of Le Creatif Design. It has been a great challenge for me to understand that in order to create a successful and sustainable business, you have to allow the work to distributed in a productive manner. Also, the business should be able to run without me when need be. The only way to do that is bring in competent individuals to assist in the growth and development of the business.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was 10 I believe I said I wanted to be a psychiatrist. My dad majored in Psychology and I just wanted to be like my daddy. I had no idea what it meant to be a psychiatrist. I just knew my dad had a job and most other dads in my neighborhood did not. So he must have been smart! He told me to look towards a business degree if I wanted stability. All the while I was sewing doll clothes, painting, drawing and redecorating my bedroom every chance I had.

What was your first job?

My first job was in a bakery decorating cakes. I was the best high school student decorator! I loved it. It did not pay much but I could draw on cakes and work with people.

Biggest pastime outside of work

As a small business owner, I do not have time that is designated "outside of work." But when I am in a designated "down time" per friends and loved ones, I love to spend time at the movies and trying out some of Atlanta's great restaurants. If I said shopping, I would have to admit it was for furniture and home accessories. If I said traveling, I would have to admit it was to look for unique pieces for the store. If I said reading, I would have to say I read books about building small business, interior design principles, how-to books on crafts and design. That is just what I enjoy doing all day everyday!

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. In 2007, I was nominated Black Enterprise Magazine's Rising Star of the year.
2. In 2005, I was a winner of the Miller Urban Entrepreneur Series Business Plan Contest.
3. I used to dance on TV as a preteen on a local dance television show!

Three characteristics that describe you

1. I am a self-motivated individual with the tenacity to achieve my goals of entrepreneurial success.
2. I am a spiritual, God-fearing person. I believe everything that is happening to me in terms of business was set in my path long before I knew anything about it. My faith has me where I am today.
3. I have a silly personality! Most people are shocked by how silly I am when they get to know me.

Three greatest passions

1. My passion to design and create beautiful spaces that represent my clients' personalities is what keeps me going.
2. Creating a business legacy for my family to build on.
3. Establishing a foundation to allow other young minorities the opportunity to express themselves creatively as a career.

Favorite book

Right now, its "The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It" by Michael E. Gerber. This is my second time reading it and it sheds so much light on what small business owners think they know about business and how to keep from falling into the trap many business owners have in the past.

Favorite cause

Diabetes awareness. My sister died at 33 with four children from this disease. She was diagnosed at eight and lived a very difficult life as a result of it. Even after her death, I still have family members being diagnosed with the disease as well as millions of other Americans. The disease they have is from our lack of knowledge around what we eat and how we live. It doesn't have to be that way.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

It has always been a dream of mine to be on the Oprah Winfrey Show and/or in the Oprah Winfrey O Home Magazine. I believe she has done what it is I think all business owners should strive to do: market the person as the brand. After that the future business opportunities are limitless. On a more personal level, I would love to be included in her network of people in order for me to learn from her and even have a roundtable discussion with her on subjects like business, dreams and aspirations, books and recipes. I just want to prove that great minds do think alike.

Want to get in touch with Angela Page?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Elisha Greenwell
Introduction by Sabine Alam
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/angela-page-africana/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/angela-page-africana/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-africana/~3/mP4-qbRlL-Q/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/sade-sobande-africana/#comments Fri, 12 Oct 2007 15:08:58 +0000 admin Technology The AfricanaConnect The Non-Profit Spotlight Entrepreneur International http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/sade-sobande-africana/

Sade Sobande, 27, and her colleagues were in search of a place to develop as African entrepreneurs when they realized that place didn't exist. Instead of giving up they took action and created The African Network, an organization whose purpose is to foster the growth of entrepreneurship and technology in Africa and the African diaspora. Their organization has managed to both develop individual entrepreneurs here in the Silicon Valley as well as to develop the future of Africa. Not only have they held a successful conference, in which they discussed the future of science and technology in Africa, they have also held networking events that enable members to interact and learn from speakers from the worlds of technology, business, government, and academia. One of their largest accomplishments has been the development of The TAN Empowerment Program, which in 2006 donated computers to needy schools in Sierra Leone. For more information on The African Network and how you can get involved, read on in this week's Non-Profit Spotlight.

Non-Profit

The African Network (TAN)

Founded

May 2004

Website

www.theafricannetwork.org www.tanconf.org
(conference website)

Name

Sade Sobande
TANCon 2007 Chair

Age

27

Hometown

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Current residence

Sunnyvale, California

Education

Masters in Industrial Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Bachelors in Industrial Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Work Experience

Cisco Systems Inc, Manufacturing Engineer, 2006-Present

Kimberly Clark Corporation, Process Engineer, 2005-2006

Ethnicity

Nigerian

About the non-profit

The African Network (TAN), is a not-for-profit organization founded in Silicon Valley with the sole mandate of fostering the growth of entrepreneurship and technology in Africa and amongst her children in the diaspora worldwide through networking, education and mentoring.

Part of TAN's mission is to showcase Africa to the world as the next viable economic center and one of the fastest growing emerging markets beyond China and India, with the intention of generating interests and investments in science and technology.

At TAN, we believe that the best way to tackle poverty is not to give aid, but to empower people to stand on their own feet.

Vision - To leverage all available resources for the technological and entrepreneurial advancement of Africa, Africans and and people of African descent.

Mission - To present Africa to the world as one of the fastest growing economic centers and thus attract investments in science, technology and enterprise. To foster unprecedented positive cooperation amongst members thus creating value to all.

TAN's Values:

• Integrity
• Honesty
• Selflessness
• Empathy
• Confidentiality
• Mutual respect
• Trust
• No racial, tribal, ethnic, sexual or religious bias

TAN has three major programs which help achieve its mission and vision.

1. TAN Conference (TANCon): This is an annual conference held in Silicon Valley showcasing Africa’s technological and entrepreneurial potential to the venture capital ecosystem and the world at large. The premier conference, held at the Four Season’s Hotel, Palo Alto, attracted over 100 attendees, including students, business leaders, people from the academia, African entrepreneurs within the United States and from Africa. The video recording for the duration of the conference is now posted on our website at here. Our goal is to make TANCon 2007 a better conference than 2006.

2. TAN Empowerment Program (TEP): This encourages and coordinates the giving back of educational and empowerment resources to needy progressive communities in Africa. The purpose of this program is to stimulate Africa's future science and technology talent pool. Last year, the premier TEP program was conducted in Sierra Leone. A TAN member, whose business is primarily based in Sierra Leone organized computer software training for local residents. In addition, personal computers were donated to some schools in Sierra Leone that needed them for their students. For this year and subsequent years, in addition to helping to stimulate Africa’s future in science and technology, we will also do the same within needy African - American communities in the United States.

3. TAN Monthly Networking Events (MNE): The MNEs are an opportunity for TAN members to interact and listen to accomplished speakers from the world of technology, business, government and academia.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

As the TANCon 2007 chair my main goal is to ensure the success of the conference. On an ongoing basis, I work with all functional committees which are marketing/ticket sales, finance/fundraising, venue/catering and speakers.

Most notable milestones

TANCon - TAN had its first conference last year, TANCon 2006. The conference was a success with about 100 attendees. The video of TANCon 2006 can be found here.

TEP - Last year, the premier TEP program was conducted in Sierra Leone. A TAN member, whose business is primarily based in Sierra Leone organized computer software training for local residents. In addition, personal computers were donated to some schools in Sierra Leone that needed them for their students.

What's the niche?

TAN is the sole organization that focuses on fostering entrepreneurship among Africans in the diaspora.

What's the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge TAN face is making contacts with other entrepreneurs. We need to be able to build the network faster and to do that, we need to build a strong base of entrepreneurs. With a good base of entrepreneurs in the organization, we would have more people in leadership roles.

What's in store for the future?

TANCon - TAN is having its second annual conference, TANCon 2007, which will be held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Palo Alto on Saturday October 13. The theme for TANCon 2007 is "Roadmap to Entrepreneurship", to provide future and current entrepreneurs the tools needed to establish and develop successful companies. Distinguished speakers will deliver and answer questions on various entrepreneurship topics. Please visit www.tanconf.org to learn more about the conference and register.

TEP - Obtain 501c3 status for the organization. For this year and subsequent years, in addition to helping to stimulate Africans future in science and technology, the plan is to do same within needy African - American communities in the United States.

MNE - We will continue to provide networking opportunities to our members and future members. TAN will also be having its first annual TAN dinner. The dinner is an opportunity to present the organization and its potentials to corporate and organization leaders in the area.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

As a non-profit organization, we do not actually compete against other organizations however, we do have guiding principles to guide our actions and expansion process such that the mission and vision of the organization is preserved as we expand.

Yardstick of success

I will be happy when TAN has expand beyond just Silicon Valley, and we have implemented sustainable education programs in various African countries and here in the US.

Goal yet to be achieved

Short-term goals: TANCon - Host a successful TANCon 2007.

Medium-term goals:
TEP - obtain 501C3 certification.
Partner with other African charities to expand on the programs started with Sierra visions last year to educate Africans in the area of technology
MNE - plan and execute the first annual TAN dinner

Long-term goals:
Move beyond Silicon Valley and develop chapters in major cities such as Atlanta, New York, Houston, Chicago, London and other cities worldwide.
Develop sustainable educational programs in various African cities.

Best practical advice

Keep your eyes on the prize.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

Focus on your goals and remain true to yourself.

What motivated you to get started?

As individual Africans, set of us searched for organizations we can join to develop as entrepreneurs but couldn't find any focus on us. We thought it would be useful to create an organization that will provide a support structure not only for each other but for future entrepreneurs as well. We want to build a foundation such that in 5-10 years others can come in and not have to struggle in getting their business off the ground.

Like best about what you do?

I enjoy knowing that I am part of an organization that will make a significant impact in Africa. Thou we're still ways from achieving that goal, we have no doubt it will happen.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an engineer solely because I thought my uncle was one. As I grew older, I realized that my uncle was actually not an engineer but I somehow I maintained my fix on engineering and ended up becoming one.

What was your first job?

I had my very first job when I was in high school as a cashier at Taco Bell. Taco Bell was the only fast food place I would eat at in high school and it was pretty much all students from my high school that worked there. I actually truly enjoyed working there. I got to learn a lot about dealing with customers at an early age.

Biggest pastime outside of work

I love working out; various forms of workout. I enjoy dancing, watching great movies, enjoying the company of my family and friends, and many more. I am a very open-minded person and enjoy living life to the fullest.

Person most interested in meeting

Nelson Mandela - For everything he is and everything he represents.

Leader in business most interested in meeting and why?

Oprah Winfrey - learn how TAN can partner with her mission in South Africa in order to leverage it across other African countries.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1.I speak 3.5 languages
2. I have lived in 3 continents
3. I have a catering business with 2 partners

Three characteristics that describe you

1. Dedicated
2. Outgoing
3. Caring

Three greatest passions

1. Religion (Christianity)
2. Cooking
3. Working out

Favorite cause

Securing the economic growth of Africa.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

Every organization and person that support our goals and anyone interested in becoming an entrepreneur.

Want to get in touch with Sade Sobande?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Introduction by Sabine Alam
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/sade-sobande-africana/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/12/sade-sobande-africana/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-africana/~3/R7oXipr7LQk/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/08/gen-y/#comments Mon, 08 Oct 2007 05:20:38 +0000 admin The DesiConnect The MidEastConnect The AsiaConnect The LatinConnect The AfricanaConnect Factoid of the Week http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/08/gen-y/

Are young professionals influential in the workplace? Yes, absolutely. If you were to ask this same question a decade ago, the answer would be quite the opposite. We're responsible for changing traditional methods of communication (think IM, text messaging, emails at odd hours), we're bolder and more demanding than previous generations and as a population we have a 'smarter than thou' presence (this of course attributed to being immersed in technology since birth). More importantly, we're adaptable to the changing times. Let's take a closer look at the stats and psychographics around Gen Y @ work, shall we?

• Within the next five years, Gen Y workers will make up 40% of all American workers.
• We've grown up in an era of technology and being told we can be and do anything we want to.
• Gen Y'ers are filled with a sense of immediacy - we live in the here and now. We need our work to be important, enjoyable and with tangible results.
• More than half of Gen Y workers prefer to work at companies that allow volunteer work to be included as an extension of their work responsibilities. We want to know we're making a difference and we want to measure it.
• We're BIG on being efficient with our time (c'mon on now we have lives outside of work, right?). We're generally annoyed at the many inefficiencies we see at work and feel we're the savior to fix them all.
• We're becoming more and more demanding of changing what the 9-5 day looks like. We're looking for jobs that has the options for flexible hours, macro-management, and work from home opportunity (atleast for a couple days during the week).
• Our biggest complaint? That companies don't let us plug in our laptops, cell phones, Blackberrys (aka Crackberrys) and of course, our iPods into their networks. The inability to do so basically means we can't exist at work. We need our mobile technology as much as the older generations needs their 8 cups of coffee in a day.

• We may not seem to be paying attention. But we really are. We're masters of multi-tasking!

Is there anything we missed that you'd like to add? Comment below!



Source: Boston Herald, Deloitte Survey, Lowell’s Concours Institute
Photo Credits: Hendimion, Delgoff ]]> http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/08/gen-y/feed/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/08/gen-y/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/tcc-mag-africana/~3/EqBVA8k_3UY/ http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/05/kenji-jasper-africana/#comments Fri, 05 Oct 2007 21:17:14 +0000 admin The AfricanaConnect The Young & Professional Profile Entrepreneur Media http://www.theculturalconnect.com/new/2007/10/05/kenji-jasper-africana/

At age 10 not only did Kenji Jasper know he was going to be a Writer, he also began his career. He worked as an anchorman at a local television show. At 12, he began interning at the Washington Informer. Not many people can claim the same, but then again, 31-year-old Kenji is not just anyone. He has worked for NPR as a radio commentator, taught in the classroom and written several novels. His first novel, "Dark," made both the Washington Post and New York Times' best seller lists, and was just optioned to be made into a film by Fox Searchlight Pictures. He also Founded his own company, Words Lines and Phrases, an editorial services firm that works with clients ranging from magazines and websites to individuals. Although he has excelled in many fields, writing still remains his passion. His love of story telling is the common thread that connects all of his endeavors. Learn more about Kenji and his many projects as we feature him in this week's Young & Professional Profile.

Company

Words Lines and Phrases
The Armory

Founded

WLP-1999
The Armory-2006

Website

www.kenjijasper.com

Name

Kenji Jasper
Author/Journalist

Age

31

Hometown

Washington, DC

Current residence

Brooklyn, New York

Education

Morehouse College
B.A. English
(1997)

Work Experience

Author
June 2001-present

English Teacher
April 2004-June 2005

Bedford-Stuyvesant
‘I Have A Dream’ Program/Banneker High School Writing Center

National Public Radio
Radio Commentator
June 2001-September 2005

Urban Box Office
Reviews Editor/News Editor/ Contributing Writer
December 1999-November 2000

Instructor
Summer 1993-present

Words Lines and Phrases
Senior Writer/ Editor
January 1998-present

Ethnicity

African American

About the company

Words Lines and Phrases is an editorial services firm that works with clients ranging from magazines and websites to individual clients. We provide services in article writing, editing, screen and television writing, coaching, ghostwriting, photography and desktop publishing

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I acquire clients and serve as the lead executor of all writing services, occasionally hiring contractors for additional work that I can't perform due to my schedule as an author.

I head the editorial and creative services company. I also wrote press-kit materials and artist biographies for LaFace Records and Rawkus Records. I drafted articles and reviews for various publications including: The Village Voice, Essence, Newsday, VIBE, XXL, Savoy, KING and Amazon.com

Most notable milestones

My first novel, "Dark" made the Washington Post and New York Times Bestsellers lists.

Essence magazine noted me as a writer to watch

My first novel, "Dark," was optioned to be made into a film for Fox Searchlight Pictures

What's the niche?

I consider myself to be one of the only authors who has come out of the hip hop generation that knows how to represent urban reality in literature in a way that is palatable to both those who exist within the culture as well as those outside of it.

What's the biggest challenge?

Well, working as a writer becomes more and more challenging as we live in a society that is more conscious of images than the works behind them. The reading public continues to diminish as the number of cable channels, online outlets and interactive entities increase. So you have to find new ways to work within this revolution while maintaining the strength of your craft in all that you do.

What's in store for the future?

I hope to adapt all of my novels: "Dark," "Dakota Grand," "Seeking Salamanca Mitchell" and "Snow" for the screen. I also plan to focus my creative efforts into selling a few television pilots in hopes that one or two might become successful television shows. I would also like to expand my ghostwriting business. So if there's anyone out there who needs a book written, or needs help getting their book or other project written, Words Lines and Phrases is here for you. We've most recently been contacted about working on a memoir that centers around the life of the late Anna Nicole Smith.

What are examples of some of the things you've done as a writer or as an instructor?

As an author, I have written three novels: "Dark," an LA Times and Washington Post bestseller (2001), "Dakota Grand" (2002), "Seeking Salamanca Mitchell" (2004), the memoir, "The House on Childress Street" (January 2006), the novella "Snow" (February 2007) and "Beats, Rhymes and Life," a forthcoming anthology of nonfiction writings on hip-hop culture(May 2007).

At the Bedford-Stuyvesant "I Have a Dream" Program and the Banneker High School writing center, I assisted high school students with assignments relating to the English language, prepared students for the college application process, and taught writing skills.

Also, as an instructor, I teach classes and workshops on a variety of topics ranging from software applications to creative writing. I have been contracted by Spelman College and The Katharine Gibbs School among others.

As a Radio Commentator on NPR, I regularly wrote and contributed personal essays and commentaries to both “All Things Considered: Morning Edition” and “The Tavis Smiley Show,” two key programs on National Public Radio. I also serve as guest host for WNYC’s “The Leonard Lopate Show”

At Urban Box Office, I composed daily news briefs, assigned and edited articles, established relationships with record label and film company publicity departments and contributed feature articles for site content.

Best way to keep a competitive edge

Know your market. If you keep constant tabs on what your clients are looking for and how to meet their needs then you know how to speak their language. Speaking their language makes them feel at home with you. And we all know that when it comes to this life there's no place like home.

Guiding principle in life

I believe in having faith, honor and determination. If you really want to hit the mark with your life's aspirations you also need to trust your gut every step of the way.

Yardstick of success

My yardstick for success is my reputation. Both clients and readers look to me as someone that will give them work that is both well-crafted and seductive in nature. That's what I've always wanted to achieve with my writing and thus I consider myself a success.

Goal yet to be achieved

I have yet to see something I've written appear on the big or small screen, but I'm working on it

Best practical advice

If you're looking for it to happen overnight, stop looking altogether.

Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture

My father once told me to stop asking myself what was wrong with me, and to ask "What's wrong with them?" instead.

Mentors?

Nick Tosches
Richard Wright
James Baldwin
Alice Walker
Ralph Ellison

These writers tell their own truths through their words and investigations, and that is all that I have ever wanted to do with my own work.

What motivated you to get started?

I always loved stories. So I couldn't wait to tell my own. The first time I put pen to paper I was eight years old. I read that story to my class and they loved it. They kept asking me when I was going to write another one. I was sold on writing from there on in.

Like best about what you do?

I make my own hours. I get to work in my shorts and a t-shirt. And I take a vacation whenever I want.

Like least about what you do?

Finding enough work to take care of myself and my staff. But I've been blessed to have fewer problems than most writers I know.

Why you love writing?

I love writing because no matter how simple or complex, it always tells a story. And I love to tell stories.

At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A writer.

What was your first job?

My first job was as an intern for The Washington Informer newspaper when I was 12 years old. I wrote them a letter and they told me that I could work there for a summer. I worked as hard as I could and I really impressed them. Three years later, I worked for a national magazine called YSB.

Biggest pastime outside of work

Movies. I love going to them. I love watching them at home. My friends and I quote our favorites constantly. I also enjoy photography, shooting pool, all kinds of music, and traveling whenever I can.

Person most interested in meeting?

I'm very interested in meeting John Ridley, who is a novelist and writer in Hollywood, who has in many way managed to avoid being pigeonholed as a "black" writer. Though I don't agree with his politics he has a pretty impressive resume and we've always been two degrees apart, which is odd considering our age difference.

Leader in business most interested in meeting?

James Lassiter has an enormous amount of power as Will Smith's business half. I would also like to talk to Sean Carter about the early days of Roc-A-Fella Records as I think there are some serious marketing lessons to be learned from that little label's early successes.

Three interesting facts about yourself

1. I began my career in journalism at 10 when I was an anchorperson on a local television show called Newsbag.
2. I cook an Brazillian shrimp stew that is amazing.
3. I am a "Sopranos" and "Lost" fanatic.

Three characteristics that describe you

1. Determined
2. Intuitive
3. Strategic

Three greatest passions

1. Writing
2. Conversation
3. Love in its many forms

Favorite books

"Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison
"Cut Numbers" by Nick Tosches
"The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin
"The Rum Diary" by Hunter S. Thompson

Favorite cause

Freeing minds from The Matrix.

Who would you like to be contacted by?

I would love to be contacted by my fans, potential clients, and those who might be interested in bringing to their hometown to deliver a lecture or a creative writing workshop.

Want to get in touch with Kenji Jasper?

It's not enough to just read about what young, driven, and forward-thinking individuals are doing out there. It's important to connect with them! Go ahead and send our profilee a quick email to say hello! If you have a question, want to give kudos, or just want to drop them a line - we encourage you to reach out!

Credits

Interview by Elisha Greenwell
Introduction by Sara Ortega
Edited by Valerie Enriquez

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