Author - Jammy

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Your name and what do you do?

My name is Farhana Oberson and I am a Kenyan YouTuber. I love making YouTube videos that aim at spreading love and happiness because I genuinely feel the world needs so much more of it.

Why did you start Vlogging?

My passion for vlogging comes from a long and deep story, let’s just say, through vlogging I found a way to make and meet lots of new friends <3

What do you find most challenging about vlogging?

Most challenging is facing the stares I get when I vlog in public. It needs some getting used to. Also the editing can be timely and tiring at times. But I still love it all.

From all your Vlogs on your Youtube channel, which is your favorite Vlog and why?

I absolutely love the “Best Places to Eat in Mombasa” video because the idea literally came to mind when I was in the shower one day, and I could never have imagined that the video would be such a huge success.

Being a hijabi, do you find critics from the society even though you are covered?

Yes, I find a lot of critics, some saying that it is not Islamic enough to put myself all over the Internet. But i don’t blame them. Our society tends to mix culture and religion together. Personally I am using the social media platform to inspire others and spread love and happiness, which i feel is a good and positive cause that is not disregarded in our religion.

How do you feel your YouTube Channel contributes to your dreams and goals of this life?

My dream and goal in life is to really inspire people, especially inspire Muslim girls that we can really do anything we want. Just because we wear a head scarf doesn’t mean that we can’t be YouTube influencers, or take up any career. Our society strongly believes that being a Muslim pulls us back from the modern world, but to the contrary I feel that being a Muslim I can still do everything that I want. Therefore, YouTube as a platform, helps me achieve this.

Coast region has not embraced blogging/Vlogging as much as other parts of Kenya and the world, what do you think could be the reason?

The reason is because there just isn’t anyone doing it here. If there were many vloggers and bloggers around, then it would be a norm and no one would really take much notice. But because it is something completely new then people have no idea about it, they don’t know what vlogging and blogging is, and most certainly do not know its influence and impact on crowds. Therefore, when you are unaware of something and how it works, then you are definitely going to be skeptical to accepting it, as well as be unwilling to even make an effort to explore its benefits and popularity. This is why it has not been embraced yet.

What are your future goals about your YouTube channel?

My goal for now is to reach 10,000 subscribers. Slowly but surely I will reach the milestone.

What advice would you give young hijabi’s who would also like to start their own blog?

I would say just go for it! For as long as your parents are ok with it, then don’t think about what the society will think. Just do it and be a pioneer for others to follow. The girls in our society believe that being a hijabi pulls you back from doing many things, but on the contrary, I strongly believe that we as hijabis can do anything and everything as long as we set our pure minds to it.

Just do it and do it with dignity, honour and perseverance.

Parting shot

Strive to be different rafikis!

Join me in my adventures on my social media platforms:

YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/FarhanaOberson

Instagram: www.instagram.com/farhana_oberson

Snapchat: farhanaoberson9

Swahili Fashion Extravaganza: Hats, Shoes and Accessories

February 20, 2017

Events

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On Friday 17^th February 2017, all roads led to SwahiliPot Hub for the Swahili Fashion Extravaganza, SFE will be a monthly event that consist of various episodes from February to June 2017 at the Amphitheatre at SwahiliPot Hub.

The first edition was Hats, Shoes and Accessories, seven designers showcased their fashion pieces. Different designers displayed their skills through various products, each piece bringing out uniqueness and quality. The designers included, Shanga creations, Shoe crafting, Bersel house of Ankara, Kaylen Knits and Crochets, Evan Patel sandals, Modiire Art and Design, and Sunkissed by Bwire Summer Collection.

The models trained by SwahiliPot Models mentor and trainer Angela Mumbi, showed confidence, self-reliance and discipline. The models included: Dan Javan, Sharley Yuda, Slyvia Binyanya, Rose Akinyi, Juma Mzungu, Shufaa M Ally Yakut, Winnie Ahaya, Hadad Faisal, Stephen, Ahmed, Frank, and Nancy Natasha.

Mc Kasichana entertained the crowd with her charming character and humorous personality, the event was graced by Miss Tourism Mombasa County- Babelyn Mukila. Different perfomers were also keeping the audience entertained with various performance such as Salsa dancers, Singer-Mercy Dali, Neo the Band, Malenga 001, and Moses Mokua.

The objective of SwahiliPot Models is to

To advertise new trends of fashion designs to the public.
To empower young talents in Fashion Industry in Mombasa: Models, Designers, Photographers, Make-up Artist
To shift Modelling industry from a “hobby” to a “career”.
To uplift Fashion industry in Mombasa as a whole into an International level.

The first event was graced by various people in the industry, who showed support in many ways. The designs showcased were unique and exceptional. Looking forward to the next edition which will be on 17^th March at 7 pm on Bridal, Evening gowns and Suits. Like on Facebook Swahilipot Models and Swahilipot Hub for the updates.

Find photos from the event. Credit Murad Swaleh (MSA.CO.KE) and SwahiliPot Lenses

The Swahili Kofia

February 18, 2017

Mombasa Culture

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Friday is a religious day for Muslims, men will adorn themselves in a clean and elegant Kanzu with a kofia (Hat) and go for Jummah (Friday) Prayers. If you walk in the streets of Mombasa on a Friday, you will find men with a different kind of Kofia. The hand-Made Swahili Kofia. The Swahili Kofia are elegant hand-made embroidered hats, a tradition that has been passed on from generation to generation. They come in different sizes and patterns, all hand-made. The Kofia has spread from the Islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, Lamu, Pate, and Faza, Shela to Mombasa and environs.

The type of Kofia can identify status of the person in the society, hence the type of patterns and other factors play a role in quality and price of the Kofia. The Hand-Made process can take up to 3 months, especially if using different colour threads.

The process of making a Kofia as described by Mykofia.com

Making the mshadhari

A piece of fabric is obtained to make the body of the kofia, the “mshadhari” and the top of the kofia, the “Kahafu”.

Designing the fabric

The desired patterns are drawn on paper and then traced on to the”mshadhari” and “Kahafu”. After this, the mshadhari is joined round to make the body of the Kofia. Next, the borders of the patterns are stitched in order to make them stand out.

Threading

The Kofia is then threaded “kutia uzi”, this helps to enhance the imprinted design and also give the Kofia a great texture.

Stitching the pinholes

This is a crucial step, which requires to be done carefully and neatly. Once this done, the kofia is washed and dried.

Smoothing the Kofia

The Kofia is the smoothened using a tiger cowrie shell, a process called “kupiga dondo” This helps the stitched pinholes to be flat and smooth

Piercing the pinholes

The Kofia undergoes “kuzuua” which is the piercing of the pinholes. This is done using a fine porcupine spike.

The joining of the Kahafu and mshadhari

The final step is that the “mshadhari” and “Kahafu” are sewn and the Kofia is now complete!

The Kofia has become a symbol of the Swahili culture in the coast of Kenya and Tanzania, but it has spread to other countries as well. It has been adapted into other cultures, and modified to their traditions. Next time you see someone wearing a Kofia, know its significant part of the Swahili culture and it comes with a lot of respect.

Best places to eat in Mombasa

February 15, 2017

Coastal Snacks

Life in Mombasa founder Jammy had the privldege of collaborating with Vlogger Farhana Oberson on best places to eat in Mombasa.

Watch the video below and don’t forget to subscribe to her youtube channel:

Jina langu ni Charles Mwakio

February 8, 2017

Your name and what do you do?

Charles Mwakio. Entrepreneur.

What does a Business & Communication Skills Trainer do?

I assist businesses and individuals improve in how they communicate with a focus on the clarity of the message to their consumers, shareholder or teams. My belief is that all business should be clear on how and what they communicate.

What are the challenges you face as a trainer?

Convincing business owners as to why they need to invest in training programs, some business owners view training as a luxury or a way to unwind hence trainings and team building activities going hand to hand which sometimes doesn’t work well.

What your three top skills you think a successful MC should have?

Time management

People skills

Presentation skills

Tell us about Hifadhi Africa?

It’s an NGO that works with pastoral communities of Kenya in assisting them gain access to water, health and education currently working closely with the people of East Pokot, Baringo County.

Customer service in Mombasa is wanting, what do you think needs to be done to eliminate the “Slow Service” in Mombasa?

Well, it is wanting but it has greatly improved over the years, we need to have business owners invest in and appreciate systems and structures, some businesses are ran as one man shows which is never good for service.

What other trainings do you think people in Mombasa industry require to increase service efficiency?

I believe matters on branding and how a workforce should be custodians of a company’s brand, people need to appreciate that bad customer service has a long term effect on a company’s brand.

Who are your top three role-models that you look up to?

I will stick to career models;

Vusi Thembekwayo

Derek Bbanga

Ricardo Semler

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Running a training and investment firm.

Parting shot: Never underestimate your abilities.

Shopping at Old Town Souvenir Shops

February 7, 2017

Mombasa Culture, Places to Visit

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If you are in Mombasa, old town is a must visit. The alleys of old town are known for the historic buildings, the vibrant Swahili culture and history it holds. Taking a walk between the alleys and you will learn a lot of information about the background of the buildings which were once offices of British/Oman rulings. The Old police station, old Post office, and others. Most of them are in their original form, some need restoration. But there is more you can do while taking a walk in Old town.

The two main roads- Ndia Kuu and Sir Mbarak Hinawy diverge on the roundabout at Fort Jesus. The roads neatly carpeted with Cabro bricks creating a parallel pattern. In between the houses you will find small souvenir shops selling authentic Kenya made products. From Lamu beds, to beaded jewelry and carved décors. Each item representing different Kenyan cultures, telling stories of the past, the present and the future. Some shops have antique from the colonial era and beyond. The prices range for 50 shillings and over 500,000 shillings.

Each shop has unique items such as the Safina Crafts which creates and sells Swahili style furniture. The owner Mr. Salim said he sells far and wide, to hotels and major establishments across the country. He assures his products are unique and quality is durable, he has been in the business for 50 years. With other shops like Yusufi Antiques and Gallery by old town deals with antique items, you will find the old telephones and other household items from pre-independence era. Each item holding a piece of history for people to learn.

The next time you walk in the old town, take a tour of all the shops and find yourself some hidden gems for yourself, beautiful Swahili décors and items that will interest you. There is a lot to see and admire, our locally made products that represent who we are!

Some shops you will see:

Mavisa Shop

Safina Crafts

Yusufi Antique Gallery

Old town Antiques & Crafts

African Corner Shops

And many others in alleys of Old Town

Some pictures of the items and souvenirs you will find:

Night Photography in Mombasa

January 20, 2017

Mombasa Culture

Photographing Mombasa is easy, the rich Swahili culture gives you the right texture, colour and subject. So when it comes to night photography in Mombasa, the night light brings out the different scenes for Night photography. A few places to go for night photography are:

Mama Ngina Drive

The Likoni channel is a major passage for all ships heading to Mombasa Port, you can set up and wait for a ship to pass and capture the lighted vessel. In addition, you can set up near the Ferry and capture the mass of people embarking the ferry illuminated by the lights from ferry.

Moi Ave

Moi Avenue is always buzzing during the day, being the central business area. But with several pubs and clubs along the avenue the night scene is vibrant as well.

English point marina

The new English point marina is one of the finest spot to capture the Mombasa island, overlooking the old town you can capture the different lights from the old town houses and as well as the tall buildings.

Makadara Street

Many old town residents take a stroll on Makadara road in the evening, either with their families or friends with a few Ice cream shops around makes it ideal place to take night shots.

Tamarind dhow

Tamarind offers a night cruise around Mombasa Island while enjoying a seafood dinner, as it passes through various areas of Town ideal for capturing the island from a different angle. Also Passing by the bridge

Mombasa Port

From the rooftop of Canon Towers, Tara Plaza and Bandari College you can view the Mombasa port, great way to capture the different in darkness and light that blend into the port at Night.

Find below photos of my attempt to photograph the Mombasa night scene from GPO to Moi ave

Jina langu ni Elizabeth W. Marami

January 19, 2017

Your name and what do you do?

Elizabeth Wakesho Marami, Marine Pilot.

How does it feel to be the first Female Marine Pilot in Kenya?

It comes with a lot of responsibility. So I’ll say pressure. Lol.

Why Marine Pilot?

I always aspired to be different and well here I am today.

You run a fashion blog as well, how do you manage to balance both?

The fashion blog is my hobby, an escape from my day-to-day life. More like therapy. I love fashion and above all I love writing. It’s not easy at all but I love being busy. Like overwhelmingly busy that way I feel like I’m fully utilizing my time on earth. Plus you know what they say; an idle mind is the devil’s workshop

Do you think Mombasa has embraced blogging?

I believe so.

Look at where you are today with life in Mombasa!

Baby steps

Are you part of any young women empowerment programs?

I have worked with different organizations on this but I mainly do it on a personal, where by I just talk to young girls/women through whatever channel available. I have worked with P&G as their ‘keeping girls in school’ campaign ambassador, which allowed me to reach more girls to mentor. I also work closely with WOMESA (women in maritime in eastern and southern Africa) whereby I chair the mentorship committee and get to visit secondary schools to empower women and many more.

What would you tell a young lady who doesn’t know what career path to choose?

It can be very confusing especially when you are young and have no guidance towards career choices, attending mentorship forums is definitely a starting point, However I’d personally advise them to find their passion, what they desire to become, what they dream of doing and work towards achieving that.

You travel a lot, what 3 developments in other countries that you have seen that can be implemented in Mombasa?

Infrastructure, medical care and shelters for the less fortunate

What are your future plans?

To establish a foundation that can mentor young girls and provide scholarships to young girls but more so to ensure gender quality in the seafaring sector is achieved through my ‘Against the Tide’ Initiative by advocating for change that will hopefully in the long run influence policy change at IMO (UN body that governs maritime affairs) that allows for equal employment opportunities and more favorable conditions for women who choose a career at sea because to be honest it’s really tough out there right now, not just for me but all female seafarers across the globe. We don’t have a voice out there and so I hope ‘Against the Tide’ will be that voice.

P.S I hope to have a fashion line too but that’s just on the side.

Parting shot

Dare to dream, nothing is impossible all you have to do is implement the idea in your mind and work towards achieving it. Nothing comes easy, hard work goes hand in hand with achieving dreams.

Jina langu ni Michel Jerry Otieno (DJ Lenium)

January 13, 2017