Refresh

Meet Alazetu Founder: Makau Yole

“We have created a set of five books called Ngomabooks for five different groups of musical instruments (piano, guitar, violin, b-flat instruments and e-flat instruments). These books contain Kenyan songs by Kenyan artistes. They are ideal for use by both teachers and learners. They can be used during class-time as well as during practice-time,” says Alazetu founder, Makau Yole.

Makau Yole is a Kenyan saxophonist born and brought up in Ongata Rongai. “I love music, particularly playing musical instruments. I play the saxophone and teach how to play it as well. I got interested in playing the keyboard when I was about 6 or 7, and this interest was stirred by listening to music being played in church.”

**Makau Yole playing the saxophone during a concert**

Alazetu is a company founded by Makau to provide solutions for some issues in our music industry in Africa. The name Alazetu means ‘Our Instruments’ in Kiswahili. One major issue that they aim to solve at Alazetu is the absence of sounds from our own musical instruments in modern-day music-making. They shall solve this by digitizing the sounds of our musical instruments such as the Orutu and the Shiriri and availing them to music producers and letting them get creative in their music-making. Another major issue that Alazetu aims to solve is the absence of a proper standard for teaching and learning our African genres. They aim to solve this issue by providing teaching and learning materials that can be used to teach and learn our genres such as Rhumba and Sebene. This way they can help train world-leading musicians who can play legit African music for us here at home, as well as export this music for people to other continents to enjoy.

**Makau with Nairobi Senator Hon. Johnson Sakaja**

Ngomabooks have been written in such a way that the instruments can be played together to make harmonious music, for example, a piano student using the piano Ngomabook and a guitar student using the guitar Ngomabook can pick any song from their books and play together. “If you’d love to learn a musical instrument, it will be of such great value to own a Ngomabook, we have created them specifically for you,” says Makau.

The books will be launched at the Soko Expo, at Nairobi Chapel Ngong Road, this Sunday, 28th of November. We are excited about the launch, you should definitely be there to interact with the team and get yourself a copy!

Follow Alazetu on Instagram: @alazetu Facebook: @alazetu Twitter: @alazetu

Website: www.alazetu.com

Sweet potato cake recipe

Today we are going back to our roots with a delicious and indulgent sweet potato cake recipe. We love our sweet potatoes; for breakfast or as a snack but today we are elevating the game and incorporating sweet potato in our cake recipe. This is such a yummy treat and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients

10 tablespoons margarine

10 tablespoons sugar

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon vanilla essence

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 big mashed cooked sweet potato, cooled

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup milk

For decoration

Whipped cream

Strawberries

Method

1. Add margarine, sugar, 1egg and vanilla essence in a bowl. Mix to combine.

2. In another bowl add flour, spice and baking powder.

3. Add half flour to egg, sugar and margarine mixture and mix to combine.

4. Add the remaining flour and egg and mix to combine.

5. Add the mashed sweet potato and milk. Mix till well combined.

6. Bake for 45 minutes.

7. Leave to cool and decorate with whipped cream frosting and strawberries. Enjoy!

2021 Beauty Trends we love

The beauty industry in 2021 has been awash with new trends and we picked our favourites just for you.

Eye makeup: With all of us wearing masks while out and about, we are seeing a strong focus on eyes when it comes to makeup. Eyeshadow application has become even more creative, shifting between multiple colors and matte eyeshadow has been especially popular. Eyebrows are more pronounced with many of us going for a natural look.

At-home masks: We have resolved to doing masks at home more than ever before. Many people have turned to products that allowed them to create a spa-like experience at home with professional-level results.

Natural lips: Natural colours with a touch of gloss have been trending this year. They are safer as you don’t have to fear lipstick smudging all over your face when you take your mask off. These colours also make one feel naturally beautiful.

No makeup looks: Many of us have opted for minimal makeup especially eyes, lips and cheeks. The secret to achieving this look is to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Use products that are moisturizing and kind to the skin to give that healthy glow.

Matte skin: This has been it especially for those who don’t mind wearing a little foundation underneath their masks. Matte foundation transfers less onto your mask. A long-wear and lightweight matte foundation formula will work best.

These are our fave trends. What trend do you love most? Comment down below.

Thriving in the workplace

Happy new week! We are super excited about this last week of November and we hope you are. Today we are going to be talking about thriving in the workplace. We may have a few days remaining till the holidays begin but these tips will help you through this year and even as you plan for the new year.

Exercise professionalism: This one is very important and you need to establish boundaries at work. You are there to work not to make friends. Also, you are there to do a good job and do it well. Workplace friendships could thrive but let that develop organically. However, do not get offended if someone is not interested in after-work conversations or bonding.

Be honest: Honesty is the best policy. Communicate any issues you may have with your supervisor, respectfully. Do not bottle frustrations as this leads to resentment.

Have a positive mindset: Be intentional about your work and approach it with the intention of being productive. If you do your job excellently, you will be fulfilled. Those around you will notice, especially your boss.

Have humility and aim for growth: We all have different skillsets and strengths. It is important to be confident and polite, yet firm in your beliefs and actions. Also, do not let people walk all over you. There is also room for improvement; always aim to learn something new.

Have respect for everyone: Everyone in the workplace is worthy of respect. Treat your mates, juniors and seniors with respect as we all have the same intrinsic value.

These are our top five tips. Enjoy your work as you spend a huge chunk of your time there. Have a productive work week.

Scripture Sunday: Have Faith in God

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1. Living by Faith is fundamental for victorious Christian living. We know that God is with us and for us and we can believe in Him for all that we need. It is impossible to please God without Faith, “Hebrews 11:7”

In our lives there are situations, circumstances and breakthroughs we need from God and Faith is what keeps us going until they come to pass. Faith in God gives us so much peace and rest as we know that only He is capable of coming through for us and is fighting for us.

Here are some benefits of having Faith in God:

We can live a worry-free life: “All things work for good,” Romans 8:28. When we put our trust in God we understand that He is intentional about our lives and nothing happens without a reason. We may not fully understand why, how and when but we know that God does, He will come through for us and we can rest in that. Life is so much bigger than us and worrying will not make things any better. You may be tempted to worry but always choose Faith over Fear.

We become joyful: Trusting in God gives us so much joy as the burden of figuring things out is released. We can relax, trusting that He is totally in control and He will not fail us. “Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” Psalms 34:5

We become unshakable: Choosing to trust God and not our circumstances, people and ever-changing feelings is the only way can become unmovable. “The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous run into it, and are safe.” Proverbs 18:5. We know that whatever we face, He’s got our back.

We live in the miraculous: Just like in the days of the Israelites when God parted the Red Sea and when David killed goliath, God is very present and able to perform miracles today!

We become courageous: Knowing that God is with us and goes before us, gives us the confidence to keep going. Deuteronomy 31:8 is one scripture that puts it so well, “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

What are you trusting God for today? Have Faith in God, He will amaze you!

Prayer: Dear God, thank you that I can have Faith in you and that you will never fail me. I know that nothing is too hard for you. I choose to enter your rest and have joy as I cast all my cares to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Self-care Saturday: Love your food

Today we are all about food; taking care of your body by eating well. What you consume is very important. A huge part of self-care involves caring for what is on your plate. Here are five ways you can eat well:

Indulge in small meals throughout your day: Eating small meals regularly throughout the day enables your body to process the energy it needs for the day. This helps in regulating your blood sugar levels and prevents overeating.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables contain lots of vitamins, fiber and minerals. Remember, as a young child, when your mother used to load your plate with veggies and ensure you’d eat fruit? Well, as an adult, these are very important as they are immunity boosters. Leafy vegetables contain calcium and iron, manage blood pressure and improve metabolism and cognitive function.

Eat nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are rich in nutrients. Seeds and nuts rich in protein include chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts and cashewnuts. They are also a good source of fiber and ‘good fats’ which help lower your cholesterol levels. It is advisable to eat nuts at least twice a week; consuming them on their own or incorporating them in soups and salads.

Drink plenty of water: Water is life. It provides hydration hence supporting overall body health. Eating fruits is great as well as coffee and tea. Reduce consumption of soft drinks as they contain a lot of sugar and little to no nutritional value.

Manage your food portions: If you are managing your eating you can use a smaller plate instead, to prevent overloading. You can also use cups or weigh your food portions instead of eye-balling to prevent making too much food. Also, take your time and consciously enjoy your meal as this prevents subconscious overeating.

You are what you eat and eating foods that are good for your body will help you lead a healthy and happy life.

2021 fashionable interiors we love

Today we are all about interior décor trends that have been big in 2021. The year is almost drawing to a close and we shall be reviewing trends we have observed.

Brass accents: We have seen a lot of brass décor items this year. From light fixtures to decorative items, brass adds sophistication and elegance to a room. Brass is easy to care for and has become a preferred metal to use in recent years.

Maximalist interiors: The principle here, is more is more. The more the merrier. We have seen huge prints, bright colours and beautiful articles decorating spaces in homes. This is very trendy and very characteristic of our African culture. If you look at Ankara prints, for example, a lot is normally happening, different shapes, patterns, different colours, etc. They however work together beautifully. If you are new to this trend, begin with multicolored pillows, then you can proceed to other pieces of furniture and paint.

Indoor plants: We have seen a lot of eco-friendly decoration this year. From huge plants to tiny succulents, the outdoors have been brought indoors. Whether real or faux, plants add a natural and authentic look to your space. Indoor plants are visually appealing, therapeutic with others purifying the air.

Wicker Furniture: This adds a natural element to the indoors, just like indoor plants. The fibers are relaxing and you can bring the outdoors in, with furniture made from wicker material. Wicker is lightweight, affordable and mixes with other aesthetics. However, be careful not to go overboard with wicker furniture in your space. Too much will make your room overdone.

Bold wallpaper: Wallpaper is now bigger and bolder than ever. With floral prints and shapes, wallpaper is now available in many colours. Wallpaper has many benefits such as durability; as it can last for more than 15 years. It can last up to three times longer than paint. It also hides surface imperfections in case of imperfect walls.

These are the trends we have observed and loved in 2021, which ones are your fave?

Refresh: Meet the founder; Ruth Yole

I have always loved reading since I was a young child. I especially loved short stories in magazines and the elaborate visuals. At the dinner table even as a young child, as young as 9 years, I would catch up with the latest stories in the newspaper. I especially loved the Saturday Nation because of ‘Saturday Magazine’. I always looked forward to the recipes, which I would cut out and paste in a book, interesting real-life and creative stories. In the salon, I would read magazines and reread them, it was therapeutic and exciting to my young mind.” Says Refresh Magazine founder, Ruth Yole.

Refresh was birthed with a desire to inspire and empower. It is a place of self-expression, sharing of personal stories which are real and authentic. It is also a hub of inspiration from scripture, career advice, current affairs, recipes, fashion, beauty and wellness. “I still read magazines and love them and I felt it was about time I started one. I feel that this is the right time as we need fresh content and perspectives, a fresh breath of air, to show that goodness still exists. That there are good people, that life is worth living, and to share hope.” Sharing scripture means so much to Ruth Yole, as God is her anchor. She finds strength in the Word and wants to share the light that brings hope and healing. “I am nothing without God. I realize that everything I do is only by His strength and I want to do it well,” she says.

Refresh has received such great reception with people writing to us and saying that the content is inspiring them. “That’s the goal. To impact someone’s life, to bring cheer. It’s the essence of what we do here,”

Besides being the founder of Refresh magazine, Ruth Yole is an entrepreneur and show host. She is a fashion designer and chef running Ruth Yole, Ruth Yole’s Kitchen and a youtube show, ‘This is Ruth Yole.’ Ruth Yole deals with affordable designer clothing for both men and women. Other services include makeup application and home décor items such as pillows, curtains and furniture. Ruth Yole’s Kitchen deals with cakes and food. “We guarantee you quality at an affordable price. We cater for all occasions, picnics, showers, birthdays, anniversaries and weddings,” This is Ruth Yole is a youtube show that aims at motivating and inspiring especially young people. Ruth shares life’s truths and her personal experiences as well as easy-to-make delicious recipes and fashion inspiration.

**A wedding cake by Ruth Yole’s Kitchen**

Faith, prayer, passion, hard work, resilience and patience fuel Ruth Yole. “Entrepreneurship is no joke. You’ve got to be determined and be willing to see your plans through. Believe in God, He’s got you always. You’ve got to clap for yourself, nurse yourself when you fall and get back up and keep going. It’s a really exciting and rewarding journey.”

Future plans? “There is a lot to do, I want to expand Refresh into print media and expand the businesses. I am so grateful to God for how much we have been able to do so far and extremely thankful to all our readers and clients.” Parting shot, “You never know what you can achieve. I am amazed at how far God has brought me. Work hard and believe in the dream that is in your heart. Also always count your blessings, be kind and humble.”

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel: This is Ruth Yole

Follow Ruth Yole on social media on Instagram @thisisruthyole, fashion @ruthyole

food @ruthyoleskitchen

Facebook: This is Ruth Yole, fashion Ruth Yole food Ruth Yole’s Kitchen

Chocolate and Nut Brownie Cake

Welcome to chocolate land. A land of deliciousness and indulgence. Today’s recipe is an easy to make cake that this choco-full and moist. If you are a beginner, this is the cake for you; few ingredients and maximum flavour. The nuts take the cake to the next level. Enjoy!

Chocolate and nut brownie cake (1 kg)

Ingredients

10 tablespoons margarine

1 cup sugar

4 eggs

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

4 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 handfuls of crushed peanuts

Desiccated coconut for decorating

Method

1. Add margarine and sugar to a bowl. Add the eggs and mix them together.

2. Add flour, baking powder and cocoa to another bowl.

3. Add the flour and cocoa mixture to the margarine, sugar and egg mixture. Add peanuts.

4. Put the mixture into a greased and floured baking tin.

5. Bake for 1 hour.

6. Sprinkle with desiccated coconut and serve.

African Beauty Secrets

Africa is a great source of nutrients that are added to beauty products today. Our soils are blessed with wonderful herbs and trees and today we are going to further explore some commonly used ingredients.

Lavender oil: Lavender is a wonderful plant that is native to Africa. The flowers of this plant are used in the production of lavender oil. Lavender has many benefits.

*The oil is widely used to relieve stress and anxiety, providing a therapeutic experience while benefiting your skin.

*Lavender oil is naturally antibacterial, which helps in fighting acne.

*The anti-inflammatory properties of lavender are great for soothing and healing skin that is irritated from bacteria and even insect bites.

Aloe Vera: We all know this shrub that is loved and found in many beauty products. Aloe Vera’s benefits are many.

*Aloe moisturizes the skin without looking/ feeling greasy and is great for oily skin.

*It contains antioxidants that help to strengthen, heal, protect and firm skin.

*Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the appearance and pain of acne and blemishes.

*The healing properties of aloe vera make it perfect for healing wounds and abrasions.

Moringa oil: The Moringa tree has so many benefits. Not only is Moringa added to tea, it is also an ingredient used in the making of beauty products.

*Moringa oil is healing and is suitable for minor cuts, burns and scrapes.

*It has inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help deal with breakouts on the skin.

*Moringa is hydrating and helps the skin to seal moisture and remain protected.

*Moringa is also a great antioxidant.

Shea butter: This is extracted from the shea fruit. It has great beauty benefits.

*Shea butter has healing properties which help in reducing the appearance of scars.

*It is also great for soothing and softening dry or irritated skin.

*Shea butter helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and stretch marks.