Around the block with Njamy Sitson – Songwriter-Singer & Actor

Brief Professional Highlights of Njamy Sitson

Njamy Sitson was Born in Cameroon.
A singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, Musictherapist, actor & storyteller, he has appeared in numerous festivals, concerts, performances, seminars & workshops.

Numerous solo & group concerts in Europe ( with the “Njamy Sitson group ).

Story telling & performances at various academic institutions , schools & kindergardens.
Conducts vocal workshops and seminars in African percussion, singing, vocalpolyphony for Universities, choirs and classical orchestras . Member of the ” European voice Teacher Association ” E.V.T.A

What is your name?

My Name is Njamy Sitson

Where do you come from?
I come Form Cameroon

Where are you based
I am based in Germany

When did you first start singing?
I started singing at an Early age 4 or five years. My Mother director the church choir, music was At Home.

What does your family do to encourage you?

My family encourages me To sing for passion but not To be a professional musician, because making a living as a musician  in Africa was difficult and it wasn’t easy.

Who else in your family sings?
My lovely Brother and Mentor Gino SItson , based in New York is a Master singer, my two of my brothers and sisters sing very well, although they are Diplomats and Translators.

Who are your musical inspirations?
My Brother Gino Sitson is my favorite singer, I also like Pygmies music, Al Jarreau, Bobby Mc Ferrin , Hukwe Xahose,   Anne-Marie Nzie, Ravi Shankar, Bach,Thelonious Monk!

* What kind of music do you listen to today?
I Mostly listen Tod indigenous music Form Africa, European classical music, Jazz, African Pop music . I am opened minded.

*Have you ever faced any bad moments in your career?

The Bad Moment in my career is when there is no job, it can create a depressive Mood. But it’ s life ” Rain doesn’t Fall everyday”

Another Bad Moment was when I felt exploited by a producer 6 years ago. I discovered how music business can turn into Jungle fever.

*Where would you like to perform mostly

I would like to perform everywhere polite people who have the culture of listening are. Cameroon is of course my favorite ” home is home”

*Who would you mostly like to open for?
I would like To perform with Charles Ewanje Epee, Pierre Diddy Tchakountė , Guy Mbiro, Georges Seba, Gino Sitson.
Journalist

* Do you play any instruments?

I play African Percussion, Ngoni, Kalimba, Berimbau. To compose, I mostly use Piano

* If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be?

It would be Overtone singing form the Tuva people.

* What genre of music can’t you stand to listen to?

I don’ t like too noisy and aggressive music.

* What hidden talents do you have?

I like both ( writing music & lyrics ) how can you dissociate the head from the neck ? I do act and paint as well.

How do you get people to take you seriously as a musician?

I like when the audience take time to listen To the music because the music is a story telling, like painting, Pull of important Details.
Of course when they feel touched and you feel connected to the audience.

* Do you enjoy writing music and/or lyrics?

Of course, the music has such a power it embodies spiritual vitamin, it can relaxed me when I am anxious, the music, remind me what love is, so I have to catch the Nest flower for my darling.

What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?

 Being a musician is a Devotion, it needs to give the best of yourself, being surrounded by positive and clever people.

What are your future plans?

I am Working in different projects, with ” World Percussion Ensemble ” for the second recording CD and the World Tour, with my lovely brother Gino Sitson
I will be playing with one Barock Orchestra Form Bologna Italy , then a duo project with a virtuoso Kamanche player and singer Negar Kharkan Form Persian music ( Iran ).
I Tour now in Trio with Daktarimba ( German Jazz masters ), also AS a solo performer.

You are acting in quite a number of series and plays, tell us about them?

I did Co-Acted with Barbara Rudnik in the movie “Oktober Fest” as well as main actor in “Mein Deudshland” .

Co-Acted with Maximilian Brückner, and with Charles Huber (Der Alte) in the ” Mandela, das Musical”.
Co-composed soundtracks for the films “Oktoberfest” and “Blutige steine” with Donna Leon for ARD television.
and Artistic director of the “Malaika Afrika Festival” in Augsburg.

Below Njamy Sitson playing in  ” Bitterer Honig”  A. Gon Theater and ” Oktoberfest film “

I appreciate you taking your time for this interview! Please do well to always update us, your fans asked us to tell you!

Yes i will, thank you very much Maureen Lermer for this amazing interview and many blessings To you and all my Tour fan !

Looking through the lens with SCOTT MITCHELL

How are you today?

I’m good every day that I’m alive, thanks.

What are your names?

Scott Mitchell

Where do you come from?

I was born in Detroit and quickly moved to a northern farm town of Michigan at a very young age.

Where are you based?

I’m based on the planet earth, but often feel my soul fills the expanse of the universe. My current activity related to art and photography is anywhere that inspiration takes me. My professional job in IT is based in the Metro Detroit area, but even that is in a global company.

What does photography mean to you?

Photography for me means a lot. Everyone now is a photographer, but my goals with it go deeper than capturing selfies and memories. I feel it is the best way to capture a moment of human expression; a moment that can tell a story that is either accurate or one that the viewer chooses to create in their own eyes.

 

What first drew you to  photography and how did you discover it?

I had a photography class in high school that highly intrigued me. We used 35mm cameras and developed our own film and photos. I loved it, but fell away from it when the class finished. It wasn’t until later in life that I became interested again. Approximately 6 years ago I started playing with the manual settings on my Sony Cybershot as I tried to capture people / culture moments as well as some sunset scenes in Colombia. That was the point of no return for me and I started emptying my pockets for camera and lens purchases.

 

What do you think makes a memorable  photograph?

The most memorable photograph reveals expression I believe. While on holiday you take a photo with your friend in front of the Costa Rica zip line adventures office and then one of you screaming during the adrenaline packed moment of zipping through a jungle canopy, both photos are memorable, but one is more memorable and has more powerful expression in it. The same power of expression can be caught in quiet and humble moments as well when people are in the photo.

How does black and white vs color play into your work? Do you find them to be totally separate beasts or complementary?

B&W and color photos are separate beasts and complimentary I think. As you see now, artists are even combining the two and using bits of color to entertain our eye. I debate on every photo whether or not I’ll make it black and white or color. I believe that going B&W removes color distraction in some expressive moments. Next time you look at a B&W photo notice how quickly your mind can process it as opposed to a color photo.

 

What do you want your viewers to take away from your work?

As in my poetry, I always hope that viewers can see the same thing I saw and feel the same thing I felt in the moment of the photograph. If you remember our photoshoot, I wanted to sit and talk between sets. That’s me attempting to make a deeper connection during the moment so I can then attempt to capture something more in the photo.

Who are some of your favorite classic photographers, and how did they influence you?

I’ll go with two that you may not expect ones for this question. Sally Mann and Vivian Maier.

Sally has been very unorthodox in her photo adventures. She’s done some work I’d never even be interested in doing, but the results are incredible. In one of her sets “Deep South” for example, the photos are sometimes an ordinary scene, but she somehow captured it in a way that gives a strong eerie feeling that won’t allow the eyes to look away.

Vivian Maier was a nanny in NYC and took thousands of photographs during her life, of which many reveal a uniquely creative eye for doing so. The sad part is that nobody ever saw any until after she passed away and someone bought a box of her belongings which included hundreds of undeveloped film rolls. I recommend that everyone look her up online to see her work.

When you are out shooting, how much of it is instinctual versus planned?

It’s almost always instinctual for me. As you know, I’m not a studio photographer so I always need to make use of whatever surroundings and lighting is available in the given moment. This is how I like things to be.

What are some projects/ideas you have for photography

I’m in the down season right now since it’s winter here and I don’t have a definite plan for any projects at the moment. For me it’s like writing poetry. A muse just suddenly appears and I go with it. I do plan on traveling to Africa though and I’m sure I’ll take more photos there than I ever have elsewhere.

Why do you take photos?

For the satisfaction of artistic desire being quenched.

How has social media played a role in your photography?

Social media has allowed me to share my work and receive feedback from people around the glob. Also, I take advantage of following many inspirational photographers and I learn from their work.

What are some tips/advice you would give to yourself if you started  photography all over again?

While perhaps my progress could have been faster, I’m completely happy with how it all played out. In the realm of art I’ve learned that no creativity worth doing can ever be forced. It has to be inspired. Therefore, I wouldn’t tell myself to do anything differently. I might say to buy the more expensive camera sooner than later to save the time and money on the cameras I wouldn’t be satisfied with.

where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I used to plan a lot for the future, but started living in the present moment much more. I love adventure and I love life, so I see myself being the same as I am now. I know there will be failures and successes and it’s all good. Wherever I end up is exactly where I should be.

What are your hobbies?

Besides photography, I like writing poetry and short stories. I love travelling!

We will like to see some of your favorite photography.

You always have permission to share any of my work my dear friend Maureen.

Thanks for making time for this interview!

A big thanks to you for honoring me with an interview. Hope to see you soon!

You want to know more about this brilliant photographer and Poet, go to his links below.

http://worldiction.com/ Photography Blog

http://evokingthedeep.com/ Poetry Blog

Email address: scottmitch@live.com

By the way, Scott and i did some great shoots down town Chicago, it was amazing working with him!

One Love. Peace

Breaking the Mold with Tony Tambi – Actor

.Hi Tony… how are you?
I’m doing great Maureen and thanks so much for the interest and interview.

. What are your full names?
Anthony Tambi Kelechi Mbuagbaw

. What else are you called? (nickname?)
Banderas

. What is your sex?
Male

. What is your age?
I’ll be 37 in September 2015

. What is your height and weight?
6’1 and 195 lbs (not sure what that is in Kilos)

. What about your ancestors and heredity?
My mother is from Nigeria and my father is from Cameroon. I was born in Nigeria, moved to Cameroon when I was 7 and 14 years later moved to the U.S.

. Where do you live? (city, state, country)
Los Angeles, California, U.S.A

. What is your title?
I don’t have a title but I like to say I am in the entertainment business, principally as an actor but I write, direct and produce as well.

. What show/shows are you currently working on?
I’m starring in a short film called “55 AND 7” written and directed by Ari Dassa. A feature I worked on last year called “Filmmakers Anonymous” is in post production.
I’m currently writing several feature film scripts as well as a TV pilot. They are all in various stages of completion with one – Letter From The President, ready to go if financing becomes available.

Collaborating with fellow Cameroonians is something I love doing and I’ve had the opportunity to really get engaged in the collaborative process on two projects recently: Ben Tubuo, Gerard Ngwang, Doh Daiga and I are working on an Animated Show about a judgmental guy from Cameroon who comes to the U.S. and does what he does best – judge everything and everybody.

The second project is adapting the short story Ananda into a screenplay. Ananda was written by Bernice Angoh Lakota and we hope to shoot the feature this summer in Cameroon.

. In one sentence, describe your job.
It’s so hard to describe what I do in what sentence. Actually I’ll do it in four words: Abundantly satisfying; Exceptionally frustrating.

. What skills are necessary for a person in your position?
I would say some amount of talent, lots of patience, a decent amount of good luck and a willingness to work hard.

.What special abilities do you possess (languages)?
English is my first language and I also speak Pidgin English. Then there’s what I call Conversational French or the ability to sound like I know how to speak French. I can also do a few accents if the role calls upon someone with an accent.

. What kind of training did you go through to get to your position?
A little bit of everything. I’ve worked with various acting and dialect coaches over the years to keep honing my skills.

. What was your first job in theater?
Professionally it was a play called “The God Botherers” with the Furious Theater Company in Pasadena, CA.
Non-professionally, will have to be in Kindergarten. I played Joseph in the Nativity Scene.

. Why do you think theater is important?
That’s where it all began and there’s something very exhilarating about performing in front of a live audience.

. What is your profession’s greatest challenge today?
I would say diversity.

. If you could change just one thing about the industry with the wave of a magic wand, what would it be?
One wish? Hmmmm. Make Tony Tambi a household name like yesterday, hahaha.

. What advice would you give to someone who wanted to do what you do?
Think twice, then think again. After thinking, if you still want to do this, start early and commit to being the best that you can be. It’s going to be tough but you should embrace it and enjoy the process.

. If you could work with any of the great, who would it be?
There’s too many to name – Let’s see, this is crazy but I’ll like to collaborate on a screenplay with Woody Allen and Quentin Tarantino, be directed by David Fincher, Lee Daniels and Ava Duvernay, and work on this same movie with Forest Whitaker, Denzel, Meryl Streep, De Niro and Sidney Poitier.

.What are your hobbies?
I watch and play soccer, basketball, movies, tv. Just being home with the family.

. I saw you had a role in the series Scrub, how was it working with them?
Scrubs was tons of fun. The crew was nice and the cast had as much fun as you see on screen, off screen.

.As far as i know you were also nominated for NAACP award a few years back, tell us more about it.
It was a great, great, great experience and moment. My nomination was for Lead Male in the stage play “The God Botherers”, which also happened to be my Los Angeles stage debut. It was my second year here, and it felt like validation for my decision to follow this path. There’s nothing more encouraging than your peers telling you ‘good job’ and saying you excelled at something you did at a particular moment in time.

.Most of your scripts are written by you, where do you get your inspirations from?
My brain is constantly throwing different scenarios and possibilities at me based on my personal experience and what I see and read about. Some of those stories just need to be told. In addition, my goal is to bring more stories of the African born immigrant to the limelight. We are so much more than the poor confused refugee, kind simpleton or child soldier that is usually portrayed in the media of today.

.Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Ideally, I’ll be at the point in my career where I’m working everyday and creating work for other like-minded artists. The best case scenario would be me asking myself where did the last 10 years go, because I’ve been so busy working.

.I know you are a very busy man, thanks for making time for this interview. One love. Peace
NO, it’s been a pleasure. Thank you for your time and have an excellent day.

Have a glimpse of some of his movies:

Check him out at http://www.tonytambi.com

Podium Discussion – what is poverty?

Are we living at the cost of the Poor?
That was the discussion we had last year November, on the 10th  anniversary of Christus Treff.

For years, i have been Pondering on that topic, wanting answers, just to clear my doubts, to my surprise people had different approach to what poverty is. Some i found unbelievable, What they think is comfortable is a sign of poverty to others. Well these things do play a role too, Education, Politics, Religion, etc

How will you explain to someone who does not know what poverty is, who posses not so much, and is happy and satisfied with their situation. Just because you posses those extra things you hang on does not make you RICH!

On the Podium we had Dr. Simone Strohmayer(Mdl) of SPD, Diakon Michael Popfinger, Maureen N. Lermer and Banjamin Mampionona.
I have to tell you about Mr Banjamin Mampionona. He is helping those in Madagasca to learn to help themselves with their resources, knowledge, while pimping it with the western Techniques. His organization is called AMBOHITSARA. They have helped in various sectors like Schools, farming, hospitals/medication
“This will be my next project, in Cameroon. I want to follow his footsteps, but i can’t do it all alone, i ll need your help. If you are ready, lets do it” Together we can!.

Tea with Micon Kreft

+Hallo.. Nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too

+What is your name
Micon
photo by Maureen Lermer

+Tell us about your trend, life style and fashion, Which celebrity style do you covet most?
Angelina Jolie

+What are some tips you have for girls who want to update their wardrobes without buying all new clothes?
Mixing the sets, pimp with some extravagant buttons or apply with some bling bling iron- on stickers :-))

+What’s your motto/advice you live by?

“Shoot for the moon and if you miss it , you will still be among the stars.” – Les Brown

+How would you describe your signature look?
Smart chic
Photo by Maureen Lermer

+What are your favorite trends this season?
Leggings, lurex pullover, leather like pants

+What trend would you most like to see disappear?

Baggy pants and shoulder pads….hahahaha

+Where are you favorite places to shop for budget buys
Mango, Pieces, H&M, NewYorker, Limango, Best Secret and Buyvip

+Do you have any style tips specifically
Nothing in particular, just style depending on own mood ..

+What is your favorite item in your closet?
Leggings

+Do you have kids
Yes

+Are you married?

Yes

+How do you manage to stay smart and sexy, with 3 kids, run a house hold and a husband?
Fitness, social engagements and taking a break once in while from household stuffs by meeting friends

+Tell us about your voluntary work if you have any?
As an active member of IKM( international Cultural club), i usually take part organizing events in our town. I help also every now and then with asylums. I help in some school activities and parents teachers initiatives.

+Five things you can’t live without

( Entrecôte) Steaks :-), eyeliner, straightening iron, hair removal wax, deodorant

+What are some tips for timeless chic?

Be smart and self-confident

+What do you do to keep up?

Zumba, Hot Iron, Polefitness, Bellydancing, Family Bicycletours :-))

+Do you watch out on your Diet?

Never!
photo by Maureen Lermer

Please can you share with our readers your beauty recipes and hints?

Yes sure
I am tired of spending money in Chemical beauty product. I am giving home made product a try, which are always available in my kitchen. I have some beauty tips that is cheapest, natural,and easier home made product.

Natural beauty isn’t just what you’re born with. It’s also about making the most of your assets, toning down any flaws and presenting well. It’s also about having a beautiful personality, one that isn’t self-absorbed but encompasses others in your circle of care. Looking naturally beautiful is something within every person’s grasp.

Avoid Exfoliate skin without scrubbing
Take bath with milk water or add ½ cup vinegar in one tub water.

Get Relax from Yellow nails
If your nails get yellow by using excess nail polish, Clean it by using lemon juice. Soak your nails in lemon juice for 5 minutes,then you would get whiten color in your nails.

Get youth skin and energy as well
Mix equal part of cocoa and yogurt , and apply it over face. Risen off with cold water.It will give you energetic and younger look. Moisturizing your skin
Make a face pack of ½ banana and 1 tsp of banana. Apply it over face and neck portion, leave it for 15 minutes then wash it with cold water. After some days you will get moisturizing skin.

Recipe for Whiten Teeth
Mix one pinch of baking soda in your toothpaste at the time of brush your teeth. Do it once a week, Or you can rub orange peel in your teeth on everyday basis. It is a cheapest way to get whiten teeth.

Last but not least how to use coconut oil for the hair.

Tips

Purchase pure, unrefined coconut oil for best results. Pure, unrefined coconut oil is processed without chemicals. You can purchase pure, unrefined coconut oil that is sold for cosmetic use or for food use.
Mix one drop of your favorite essential oil into the coconut oil before putting it into your hair to give the oil a pleasant scent. Jasmine oil works well to mix with coconutoil.

Things You’ll Need

Glass cup
Small bowl
Shower cap
Comb
Put a shower cap on your head, and tuck all of your hair inside of it. Leave the coconut oil on your hair for one hour or overnight. The longer you leave the coconut oil on, the more it will condition your hair.
Shampoo your hair twice to remove the coconut oil completely.
photo by Maureen Lermer

Thanks for sharing with us your world Micon.
The pleasure is all mine

Interview with one of the most influential blogger in our time – The Hotjem Fashion & Style Blogger-

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself? 

 First of all I would like to thank you very much for featuring me on your blog 

My name is Mbole Ekaney and I am a Cameroonian Fashion blogger who currently lives in the United States. I am the Creator of ‘THE HOTJEM’, a Fashion & Lifestyle blog. ‘THE HOTJEM’ provides a glimpse into my personal style/life and interests with respect to fashion and even entertainment.

2. How you first got involved in with blogging?

 Most people don’t know this but I wrote my very first blog entry almost 4 years ago. However, my first encounter with blogs in general goes back to I think early or mid-2007 and back then after reading a few blogs, I knew almost immediately this would be something I would like to pursue someday as I love to write things down to express myself and love to tell a story and blogging to me is almost like telling a story or providing information – depending on how you look at it.

3. What do you find most challenging about blogging about your topic?

 To me the most challenging thing about blogging in general is coming up with new ideas and ways to keep your readers engaged, excited and wanting to come back for more.

4. Tell me about some of the people you’ve met while working on your blog?

 Blogging has allowed me to meet some very interesting people who are passionate about blogging and self-expression. It has also allowed me to connect with business owners and entrepreneurs, some major companies, new talents such as up and coming fashion designers and musicians (from Cameroon and from other African countries and outside of Africa). It has allowed me to interact with magazine owners and several fashion boutique owners which I love! Blogging has basically allowed me the opportunity to create an amazing network of business-minded people and companies who understand the importance and potential that blogging could bring to their businesses and to society in general.

5. How would (someone) describe your blogging style?

 Wow that is a really good question! I honestly don’t know hahaha. I am a bit spontaneous and still finding MY style but a person might describe my blogging style as ‘versatile’, ‘down to earth’, ‘catchy’ and ‘interesting’! 

6. What do you do when you aren’t working on your blog?

 Outside of blogging, I work in the Pharmaceutical industry. When I am not working and blogging there is always something to do! I love traveling to meet family, going to bookstores, shopping, going to New York City as you can do almost anything there and of course playing with my dog (Bentley New Yorkie). I also love a good movie or just simply staying home and watching TV or reading a book. Even in my spare time, I always try to network with people even when doing leisurely activities!

7. Are you a full time blogger? How did you get into blogging and why?

 No I am not a full time blogger (although it sometimes feels that way)! I got into blogging on my own as way to express my personal style and the things I liked. My initial idea was to only occasionally post pictures of outfits I wore on any given day and to share it with friends and family as a fun pass time. At the same time I also enjoyed putting together collages of pictures on what to wear and some fashion trends and thought it might be helpful to some. You would be surprised how many women have questions on how to match things together to create that perfect outfit. I know I have so I thought this could be helpful to them!

Lastly, I have always been passionate about discovering, showcasing and promoting Africans in a positive way like African fashion designers, African Art, African stylist, African boutique/online store owners etc. by highlighting their work as I feel they are greatly underrepresented in general and thought it would be great to also blog about this. This led to the creation of ‘STREET @FRICANA’ (aka Africana) which was recently added to THE HOTJEM blog on September 2014.

8. What networking do you do that you feel helps your blogging business?

 I utilize various social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and more to make my blog visible and I participate in several bloggers forums and groups (both online and in person). I also interact with other fashion and non-fashion bloggers and I attend a good number of networking meet-ups where I talk about my blog.

9. How do you keep coming up with material/content for your blog? Many people struggle with coming up with different articles/posts and they only have one blog.

 It is not always easy coming up with new material and/or content on a regular basis as I find myself constantly thinking of new topics to blog about to keep it exciting and interesting. However, since THE HOTJEM blog is not only about my personal style but also provides some information on fashion tips and trends, beauty, a bit of entertainment and other topics that I really enjoy, it allows me to think out of the box and gives me that flexibility to blog about various topics without losing the main focus of THE HOTJEM blog which is about ‘fashion’ and ‘style’. I also get inspiration from reading other blogs, magazines, watching TV and even by talking to people as an idea might pop up at any given time.

10. What’s your strategy with your blog in general?

 My strategy is to come up with informative topics/content that will spark people’s interest and keep them coming back for more. This way my readers become regulars and would engage more and to increase my traffic flow.

11. Do you think page rank plays a vital role in a blog’s life?

 Absolutely! A high page rank is sort of an indication of your blog’s presence or authority on the web. The higher your page rank, the better it will perform in organic search results and will result in more people visiting your page. Also the higher you’re page ranks the higher the chances of securing business opportunities such as partnerships, advertisements to name a few and this can turn your blog into a money-making potential.

12. What would you prioritize? Content? SEO? Traffic? Readers?

I would prioritize Content first as you need very good and regularly updated content to attract readers which in turn would drive traffic. SEO is also very important throughout a blogs lifespan.

13. What’s the best thing a blogger can give to his/her readers?

 Good quality, relevant, creative and consistent information is something all bloggers should be able to deliver to their readers.

14. A lot of people are interested in blogging for the money earning potential. What are some tips for people interesting in making money from blogging? What are some realistic expectations in regards to what can be made?

 This is a question that many bloggers ask themselves when they start. I cannot stress enough that when you get into blogging you should do so because you enjoy it or have a passion for it. You should not start a blog only to make money or you will be very disappointed.

Some tips I would provide for bloggers who want to monetize their blogs are;

*Providing great content can drive large numbers of visitors (traffic) to your blog and then you can think of monetizing it.

*Research popular keywords to use throughout your blog so that your blog can get to the top or high up in search engines which will bring traffic and utilize different social media platforms

*Also know what options there are out there such as utilizing affiliate links, Google AdSense ads, sponsored posts etc. and use only those that fit well into your blog.

*Set realistic goals and expectations and remember that not many bloggers will get rich from blogging and even if they do make a substantial amount of money, it entails a lot of hard work and a good business plan.

15. What has been your strategy for creating visibility to yourself and your blog?

 My strategy has been to utilize various forms of social media as I previously mentioned, networking, collaborating with other bloggers and PR people who have been very helpful in promoting my blog and just posting my blog links on my personal FB Profile page for my friends to see when given the opportunity. You would be surprised what word of mouth can do. I try my best to be consistent with my blog posts and to tweak my content so that my readers aren’t bored. 

16. What was the most challenging moment in your blog content development process and why?

The most challenging moment I’ve encountered and still do occasionally is finding ways to provide consistency in the delivery of my blog content and coming up with a perfect (or close to perfect) content theme and blog style to go with my vision.

17. Everyone has a favorite/least favorite post. Name yours and why?

 WOW! I love all my posts hahaha and don’t necessarily have a favorite one. I guess I could say that my favorite post is the “Breezy, Hot South Africa – Red Pants and Blue Dyed Top” post because this was my first outfit post for THE HOTJEM blog and it was taken in South Africa where I had a magical experience and a fun time doing it with my family there. So it brings back great memories of my trip.

 What is my least favorite post? The “Pretty in Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month” post because I didn’t like the quality of the pictures due to the poor lighting. I used my iPad to take the pictures (in New York City) and needed to do the post before the end of October since my photographer was not around and it was already October 30^th. However, it was for a good cause to raise Breast Cancer awareness.

18. What’s your take on sponsored reviews?

 I am fine with sponsored reviews as long as it is done honestly and correctly. I believe that if a blogger is going to do a sponsored review, they should always keep their readers in mind by not being biased and should only do reviews that reflect their honest opinion. Do not do it and/or do not give positive feedback or positive review only because you are getting paid for it or are receiving something free for it as over time your reviews will come across as not being genuine by your readers and you might start losing credibility as they might think your reviews are driven by what you will gain. If you can’t provide honest feedback or honest unbiased review of a sponsored review then don’t do it to begin with because credibility is everything in the blogging world!

19. Name some of the bloggers whom you look up to and why?

 There are so many bloggers that I look up to as they have influenced me in one way or the other. Unfortunately I cannot list them all here. I admire Chiara Ferragni from The Blonde Salad as she has revolutionized the world of monetizing her Fashion Blog and taking it to much higher level than most! I also admire male style bloggers; Adam Gallagher and Paolo Savi! I believe it takes extra courage to put yourself out there as a man and to show people your style and/or love for fashion without having people judging you or labeling you as being too into yourself. Other favorites are Cameroonian fashion bloggers; Brenda Chuinkam as she loves African Prints/Ankara outfits and is a curvalicious young lady (as I like to call her) and Idyll Epangue as her blog is fun and I really like her new online shop called Shop Arts Becomes You. Another favorite is Immaculate Bites which is a food blog as she is detailed and takes perfect food pics and Yefon Mainsah’s I Rep Camer blog as she is one blogger who is proud to promote everything Cameroonian! But there are many blogs that I love too.

20. If someone was interested in blogging, what would be a few things you would suggest?

I would advise to first speak to someone who is already blogging (if they know anyone). If not, then you must first do your homework by doing some research on blogging basics. The internet has a plethora of information, so you can start from there. Learn about the important things associated with blogging such as choosing a domain or host domain and domain name, SEO ranking, creating good content to name a few and learn from other bloggers mistakes as many are not shy to share their initial experiences. Most importantly -be yourself. Only blog about what the things you love or have a passion for and not for the sake of it or you will quickly loose interest and will join the club of many others who started and fell off the bandwagon. Blogging takes a lot of work so you must really have a passion for what you do.

Please do not forget to check this amazing  blogger at  http://www.thehotjem.com

Copyright by Maureen Lermer 01. 2015

 

Maureen Lermer: Photoshoot and Interview with a Model and Artist