We all know someone who has become a successful entrepreneur thanks to modern accommodation booking websites such as Airbnb. As popularity for vacation rental properties continues to increase more homeowners are starting to ask themselves whether this a worthwhile income option.

As a rental associate at Rego Sotheby’s International Realty, one of the most common conversations I have with homeowners is advising them of the pros and cons of entering the market with a long-term rental versus a short-term/vacation rental. People often want to know which option will generate a higher revenue opportunity, what will work best for their lifestyle, and whether renting their property or apartment on Airbnb is truly worth it. The answer to these questions is yes! Renting your home on the vacation rental market can be worth it if you have the time, resources and a property that can exceed the average vacation rental market statistics.

What do the average market statistics look like in Bermuda?

First, let’s take a look at the short-term/vacation rental market. The average daily rate is $160 BMD per night and the average number of nights that a property is booked is 72 nights per year.  Therefore, the average annual revenue of vacation rental properties is $11,520. Of course, many exceptional properties in Bermuda will far exceed this number.

Now let’s compare that with the long-term rental market. An average one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,200-$1,500 per month. Therefore, the average annual revenue of one-bedroom properties on the long-term rental market is $14,400-$18,000.

It is important to consider that the operating costs of a vacation rental are higher than a long-term rental. For a long-term rental your operating costs are land tax, landscaping, appliance maintenance and general property maintenance. The operating costs of a vacation rental encompass all the costs of a long-term rental but have additional expenses such as utilities (electricity, internet, TV package, water), cleaning costs, maintaining supplies for guests (toilet paper, dish soap, salt, pepper etc.) and cost of replacing furniture or kitchenware due to normal wear and tear.

So how can a property owner create a vacation rental business that will be more profitable than renting their property on the long-term market? Maintaining a 5-star rating on the website which you use to advertise your property is critical. You get a five-star rating by providing an exceptional experience for your guests.

A quick response and being available to your guests 24/7 is crucial to achieving the profit you desire. The work involved in this could include things such as: answering all guests questions before their arrival, arranging airport transportation, facilitating grocery store deliveries, supplying basic toiletries and pantry items, check-in/out inspections and condition reports, professional standard cleaning and attending to property maintenance or internet issues without delay. There is also a requirement to report bookings to the Bermuda Tourism Authority and pay a 4.5% Vacation Rental Tax.

Ensuring that a vacation rental is ‘guest-ready’ for each booking requires a financial investment, as well as a time investment. Do not underestimate the value of your time. Many successful vacation rental property (VPR) owners will tell you that operating a successful VRP is a full-time job.

When you are deciding on a rental option for your property ask yourself if you have the time to properly commit. Are you prepared to work an on-call job on top of your full-time job? Or do you have the means to make VPR management your full-time job? If you have a passion for tourism, a property that will be in high demand and the drive to work for yourself, then you can absolutely create a VRP that will beat the vacation rental market average statistics.

If the time commitment is daunting, and you desire an easier revenue stream from your property then renting your property on the long-term market will most likely be better suited for your lifestyle, while still being profitable. Remember, there is also the option of hiring a property manager for a small fee to alleviate some of the responsibilities related to maintaining a vacation rental property.

There is no denying that websites such as Airbnb have had a significant impact on the tourism industry, and it is only growing. Every property and every owner is different. Take the time to reflect on which option is best for your lifestyle, and of course, do not hesitate to contact the professionals for advice!

Allison Settle-Smith is the Long-Term & Vacation Rental Advisor at Rego Sotheby’s International Realty.

The post To Airbnb or Not to Airbnb? Let’s Run Some Numbers appeared first on RG Magazines.

KPMG’s Budget snapshot provides highlights across Bermuda’s national debt, revenues and expenditures, payroll taxes and other taxes, new incentives, and economic substance. They also provide the firm’s points of view on these components of the Budget.

For the full document, click here. 

The post A Snapshot of the Bermuda Budget 2019/20. You’re Welcome! appeared first on RG Magazines.

The Buzzing Energy

From 11:30 until 3pm the energy does not slow – the food stays fresh, the service is constant and smiles do not wane in the magical land at the back of Fairmont Hamilton Princess. There is something about good food over the table that opens people up, so be prepared to have some foodie discussion, or to just nod in agreement with complete strangers.

Unlimited Champagne

While most people drink at the end of the week; Marcus’ encourages you to toast to the beginning. The non-stop flow of Veuve makes you feel like an A-lister. (Although the option to upgrade to Dom is there). And for those who choose not to drink, there is a lighter option that still includes the gold standard of non-alcoholic beverages. (Try a freshly made fruit punch or mango mix.)

Fried Chicken or Waffles (or both)

The unspoken message of “Don’t be shy” is hanging over the open doorway of the former Gazebo room. We say that to say, that everything but the kitchen cupboard is up for grabs. Enjoy some made to order Eggs Benny, delicious homemade flaky pastries, deviled eggs; there’s a Caribbean corner, a taco cart, fried chicken, waffles (or both), pancakes, an entire birthday cake if that’s what you fancy.

Live Music

The rounded room of Marcus’ dining hall somehow creates acoustics that are incredible for digestion. One is constantly going back for more without so much as a bash of an eyelash, but definitely stepping to the beat by THE BIG CHILL. From late morning to early afternoon, the music is consistent and creates an ambiance fit for the family.

Child-friendly Service

Buffet brunch is practice for your little adults, right? Marcus’ understands.  If you’re reserving, let them know that you have little ones joining – the only question they will ask is “booster?”  Children are welcomed with a high-five and a juice/water/hot chocolate order. Now let out that sigh of relief.

The Do-It-Yourself Ice Cream Station

This one is most certainly for adults, the ice cream station is something that is waiting for you from the beginning to the very end. While the children get to act like grown-ups, the grown-ups are brought back to a simpler time. If your 3rd Champagne doesn’t do it, this station will.

The (NEW) Dim Sum Trolley

‘Nuff said.

Chef Danai

Getting in the habit of watching chefs do their thing on TV has obviously boosted our fascination with what goes on in restaurant kitchens. Marcus’ embraces the open concept,  and we can see why. There’s nothing like watching Chef Danai working hard to make your food fresh and your Sunday incredible.

Don’t miss it!

The post 8 Reasons for Marcus’ Sunday Champagne Brunch appeared first on RG Magazines.

Death is Not the End(2017) is a seemingly modest 88-page book that presents ideas to live by; ideas that promised a state of absolute freedom from the fear of dying. It was one of Eugene Carmichael’s last intriguing life projects before he himself laid to rest not even a year after publishing (April 17, 2018).

I have been exposed to conventional thinking throughout my life, and I have obediently followed the paths of thought of the masses. However, I am a free and independent thinker at heart, so I question a lot, and I am not afraid to explore a path if it draws me. Needless to say, I have run into significant criticisms from time to time. Somewhere along the way, I came across a mantra that states: ‘Dare to be a Leader.’(Hood) It has stayed with me and is a principle guide in my life.” (p. 3)

Eugene Carmichael grew up in Scaur Hill, Sandy’s. He never set out to make a stir, but seemed to be moved by injustice. His first fight was to review the KEMH emergency room procedures in 1982 after the death of his first wife, and beloved Bermudian jazz musician Violeta Carmichael, whowas about to have her career launched in the USA.

Her unexpected death resulted in other black families coming forward with similar tales about their treatment (or lack thereof) in and by the hospital’s emergency department. The lack of real concern from the Bermuda Government health minister at the time prompted Eugene to call the then head of the World Health Organization and ignite a conversation that would lead to health care reform in Bermuda.

This also spurred Eugene to establish the group HealthWatch – a platform that allowed Bermudians to make sure their needs and views on healthcare were heard and supported.

Shortly after, in 1988, what was originally a “get-fit challenge between a group of friends” eventually became a formalised charity “fun raiser.” As the inadvertent co-founder of what is now one of the most well-supported charities on the island – the Bermuda End-to-End Charitable Trust – Eugene was able to live to watch its full growth. Now the Trust hosts thousands of people annually to walk, run and swim across Bermuda. From its website: “All pledges raised by our participants are distributed amongst that year’s selected charities.”

“The End-to-End committee has now acknowledged Eugene’s contribution by announcing that the three co-founders (Eugene, Anne Mello and Starla Williams) will receive recognition through a park bench dedication along the Railway Trail.

In June of 2018, the award was received by his daughters, Donna Carmichael and Carol Hendrickson, and, thanks to the Department of Parks, the bench has been permanently placed at Barnes’ Corner by the Department.

In 1999, Euguene was publicly recognised for his community service with the Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour for his community service. He told Mid-Ocean News at the time: “I have happily given service over the years because I saw the need in the community. Frankly, I find it hard to say no.” Good for us.

The Bermuda-Spain Connection

Though his age could have encouraged him to stay in Bermuda, that same year, a trailblazing Eugene decided to move with his wife, Lorna, and his son, Nathaniel to Valencia, in eastern Spain. Reminiscing on his first experiences touring Europe with the Honda Goldwing Bike Club, Eugene told The Royal Gazetteat the time that he was “the only black man around.” Despite curiosity about his difference, Eugene quickly won the hearts of the Spanish residents of Pedralba, where he settled with his family. His beautiful home had a well-used hammock that looked out on the surrounding fields of Valencia orange trees.

From one small town to another, Eugene continued to givethe best parts of himself to everyone around him.He grew closely involved with the charity Valencia Acoge, which was set up to help move refugees and immigrants to Spain – many young Bermudians among them. He taught extensively about culture, climate and geography, and tried his best with the language.

This service was helped by his membership in the club Toastmasters International, where he constantly worked on his communication, public speaking and leadership skills, and enjoyed mentoring new members. Though away, he was forever invested in his island home, making sure to visit organisations such as The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce and Bermuda Senior’s Islanders’ Centre, among others. “Eugene visited us at the Bermuda Senior Islanders’ Centre and St. Paul’s Christian Education Centre…Eugene was a phenomenal Bermudian, a courteous and wise man with a genuine interest in philanthropy and charitable causes island-wise.” reads a letter to his family.
In 2000, Eugene’s reach went even further when he helped build a school in Gouria, a remote village in the far north of Cameroon, West Africa, as part of a programme called the Malima Project – which is committed to the support of high-quality education, basic health care and other social services in the region. His portrait now hangs in the school’s office.

Death is Not the End

Near the end, he never pretended to understand everything about life, but conducted independent research to find out, at least, the meaning of death. Whether for self-assurance or to be able to continue to guide those closest to him after his time, only someone philanthropically fulfilled at the age of 79 could find the courage to investigate such a deep topic.

Eugene Carmichael was an adventurous spirit, a teacher, a husband and a caring father. In his life, he worked for each community in which he found himself, without regard to race, religion or nationality; and showed that doing what’s right in your heart will always win. He was the connection between Bermuda Cod Fish & potatoes and Paella, and remains a role model for islanders, no matter the age, wanting to break free from the status quo and explore the world outside of Bermuda.

The post Black History Month: Eugene Carmichael appeared first on RG Magazines.

 Until the end of December, they are selling the entire BermuniTees collection including their original t-shirts, popular ‘Bermy Beanies’ and ultra-soft hoodies – all sitting on hand-carved tables made of crates and surrounded by twinkling lights.  They also carry a line of specialty barware that makes a great gift for the host of the party.

Bermuda Candle Company has their seasonal Holiday Collection available, featuring their Christmas Tree scent that’s has become an island favorite. Follow your nose to the top of the stairs across from Heel Quik and Jazzy’s Boutiques to shop both collections this Holiday season.

We can’t wait to give the gift of home from Bermunitees, who, by the way, give 15% of every purchase to local charities. Look good, feel good, do good – what more can you ask for?

Connect with them:
Facebook: facebook.com/bermudacandlecompany
Instagram: @bermudacandlecompany

Facebook: facebook.com/bermunitees
Instagram: @bermunitees
Website: www.bermunitees.com

Click here for more on ideas for Bermuda-made gifts. Wonder what happens when you Buy Bermuda? Find out here.

The post And Then There’s the BermuniTees Pop-up Shop appeared first on RG Magazines.

Happy New Year! As the seasonal festivities draw to a close, the last of the Christmas dinner spread is heated, and life returns to normal, the question of when to take your Christmas tree down is one that draws debate.

Tradition vs practicality, real tree vs fake are all factors that weigh in on the argument, but there is no one opinion that crosses all boundaries – it’s really up to you.

Some people can be found packing it away on Boxing Day, others say definitely the 1st of January as we ring in the new year. Some observe the tradition of waiting twelve days after Christmas or the twelfth night which takes us to the 5th of January and ends with the Feast of the Epiphany. This, for many the definitive date and any time beyond signals bad luck to come.

Some of us simply can’t face the task so it changes every year, depending on motivation levels. Others leave their Christmas decorations up year-round for the sheer joy of them.

One of the loveliest things about Christmas is the keeping of traditions that involve your whole family, however customary. Pulling down your Christmas tree may be part of the pleasant rituals you undertake together at this time of year, carefully packing away your decorations for next year’s festivities.

What Happens to It?

You’ve spent many a good time next to a plant that now feels like family. Where is it carted off to once the tear-down ceremony is finished? Once you remove the tinsel, nails, and ornaments and place it outside on your scheduled day (see below), it is then composted to make fertilizer, according to gov.bm.

Your Christmas tree collection days:

EAST END: Collection Day

Wednesday, 17 January, 2019

Wednesday, 23 January, 2019

WEST END: Collection Day

Wednesday, 24 January, 2019

Wednesday 30 January, 2019

Can I compost my Christmas Tree?

Yes! Because the needles are slightly “rubbery” and tough, they’re quite resilient to the usual composting bacteria so take ages to break down, and the trunk can take even longer: cutting up the tree or, ideally, shredding it will help a lot. Otherwise, it could easily be next Christmas or the one after that before you start seeing any progress.

Myth buster: There is a misconception that composting pine needles will result in acidic compost. It’s not true, by the time the needles are composted they will have lost most of their acidic potency.

Composting your tree is great, but there are plenty of other creative ideas to keep that tree around for longer, get more use out of it and more for your money.

Wanna do your part for the environment this year or even just stretch your dollar on that ridiculously expensive sapling? Here are some other ways to recycle your Christmas tree.

The post When to Take Your Christmas Tree Down, and What To Do With It appeared first on RG Magazines.

If you Google UKIE[1], you’ll find that it’s a trade body that represents the interactive entertainment industry within the UK, and its sole purpose is to work at making a positive image for video games and other forms of entertainment within the media industry.

Try IGDA[2]. You’ll discover a society of over 10,000 video game developers worldwide. They describe themselves as being “dedicated to the promotion of innovative ideas and latest developments.”

Women in Games is another example of a professional body that shows an opportunity for a growing industry, and the buck doesn’t stop there: Jian Zihao’s new t-shirt partnership with Lebron James makes one wonder about the possibilities beyond the creation, to selling, franchising, merchandising, and building national players to play on an international level.

Every year, the Department of Education’s Gifted and Talented Education Programme holds a science, technology, arts, engineering and maths (STEAM) academy – which included a Gaming Academy 2018 for children who are interested in learning video game and technical theatre production.

Recently, Trojan Horse Gaming put on a successful full-day Fortnite (Epic Games)[3]Tournament. Over 100 children participated. “Bermuda has many talented players,” says Dion Correia, CEO of Mindshift Entertainment Group Limited and founder of BermyCon, “We have started the process with reaching out to various gaming companies overseas to build a number of international eSports tournaments that can possibly be played here in Bermuda.”

While Trojan Horse wants to play games, Adrian Lodge, founder of Bermuda Island Games (BIG), wants to build them, and both are working with the Bermuda College to explore interest in the subject. Adrian would like to see the same effort and focus which is currently being put into fintech into the games industry which is currently untapped in Bermuda. “While blockchain may be the future, students today are coming back to Bermuda with the skills needed for game development, and just need somewhere local to apply them.” He is keen on growing that industry with other partners, which includes the government.

BIG is an independent game development company that aims to promote the island through games in the most entertaining and educational way possible. Winner of the Rocket Pitch 2018 for a series of educational games, his most recent project involves an adventure with Sir George Somers. He also plans to put on a small competition to see who can come up with the best idea to start building games locally.

When he thinks about a games industry on the island, he refers to what we already know, “The reinsurance industry is doing well here because we have the right infrastructure and regulations.” He feels that we can build what is needed to really fill in a gap in the market.

Despite having the most expensive internet and a limited population compared to other places with thriving industries, Lodge believes that it is very possible to create games in Bermuda that are profitable worldwide. He would even go so far as to say that “this is the third leg.” After international business and tourism, could we have games?

To give an idea of how these types of things are doing elsewhere, Red Dead Redemption 2, an action adventure game developed by Rockstar Games in San Diego, released end of October and made $725 million worldwide in its opening weekend. If we compare that to the film industry, Disney’s Avengers made only $640 million upon its debut last April.

Aside from the potential income for the island, developing games brings skills that are easily transferable and even sought after, i.e.:

• graphic design (building background and character);
• programming (the same skills are used for website and application development);
• product development;
• storytelling (the creator has to ensure that the character connects with the player and pays attention to details such as historical accuracy);
• creativity;
• project management (deadlines, understanding, concepts);
• audio engineering (sounds effects and voice acting);
• camera work; and

For those that are interested in games beyond the playing aspect, there is an opportunity to build careers in marketing, advertising and more. “With this in mind,” Correia says, “we have structured a plan that will include us working further with the government in making sure that we are able to build a foundation and direction in helping to build interest in all areas of gaming.”

How can a business get behind this? Help to create the space for innovation and learning to take place, or look to ESPN and get behind a gamer. One Communications has already committed, along with BermyCon, Gamers BDA, DNA Creative Shoppe and Bermuda Tabletop Wargaming, to bringing international gaming to Bermuda.

Venues can sponsor their space for tournaments, parents can volunteer, and of course, financial donations go a long way. Companies can, of course, benefit from the normal advertising spiel, but more so by taking on the corporate social responsibility to contribute to industry, create opportunities for different learners, innovate the island and educate the world. A stretch?

“That’s the thing about games,” says Lodge, “the limit is your imagination. You can build anything. That’s why kids are drawn to it.”

Notes:

[1]The Association for UK Interactive Entertainment

[2]International Game Developers Association

[3]Developed by California-based studio Epic Games, Fortnight is what’s known as an open-world survival game, in which players collect resources, make tools and weapons, and try to stay alive as long as possible.

The post Opportunity in Bermuda’s Growing Games Industry appeared first on RG Magazines.

Kristen Scott Ndiaye: We wanted to talk to you about this because even though you’re not in politics, necessarily, I would imagine that you – your brand, and your actions – still have a responsibility of a leader in Bermuda. What do you think?

Sir John Swan:Anyone who’s been given the privilege that I’ve been given – I had parents who had confidence in me as a young person, forced me to go abroad to get an education and, though I had dyslexia, had the word “failure” taken completely out of my lexicon. I should feel responsible for helping Bermuda to achieve its goals. Though not political, I feel intellectually responsible for making sure that Bermuda is headed in the right direction.

KSN: Right. Now, you didn’t start out as a leader. You’ve described your playground as Pembroke Marsh and just shared that you had your share of hardships – dyslexia, visual impairments. From there, what has been your journey to leadership?

JS:After school, I came back to start a business that, for 10 years, built 40 percent of the homes on this island. I belonged to organizations and served on many boards, both locally and internationally, which gave me a broad view of Bermuda and the rest of the world. This led me to become premier, where my job was to make Bermuda as viable and as functional as possible through policies and programmes. I was physically responsible for the country, but at the same time expected to act with a social conscience.

KSN: I find it interesting that that social conscience has stuck with you after so many years; and after so many years, you seem to have stayed relevant in business. What’s your secret?

JS:Well I try to remain relevant, not only in business, but in all sorts of other activities that affect Bermuda. It requires a lot of reading, a lot of studying and staying on top of what’s happening locally and internationally, and learning to change with the times.

KSN: Of course, and we know that it’s important in business, and in life, to be able to pivot. How do you do this?

JS: Every ten years I would reassess my business and decide whether it needed to be changed. In order to pivot, you have to learn to remake yourself both physically and mentally. The world of change is speeding up. The intellectual process includes 1) your ideals – what you stand for; 2) your ideas– which come to mind from your ideals; 3) things – which are what you create from your ideas; and 4) people – those who use the things that you create. If these don’t line up, then it’s time to change.

KSN: How can other leaders do that?

JS:I’d say pay attention to your instincts, pay attention to what other people are saying to you, and learn to listen. Most people fail because they fail to listen. I’ve tried to be very sensitive about other people’s feelings and views, and they’ve helped me with the things that I’ve been able to achieve.

KSN: So, you would say that success is not gained alone. Would you say that seclusion is the enemy of creativity?

JS:It’s a tough question, because there are a lot of people that do a lot of productive thinking in seclusion. You have to find a balance. I call it the “Iceberg Effect”: 9/10 preparation and 1/10 effect. Anytime I give in my career, I make sure it’s something worthy. There’s a lot of research that goes into my speeches and my articles. If I don’t plan in seclusion, it makes for an uncomfortable outcome.

KSN: More on those uncomfortable places in leadership: what advice do you have for those moments?

JS:To that I say do unto others, as you would have others do unto you. Everybody knows that I’ve been in some uncomfortable situations. Leadership is about raising people up. Sincerity, integrity, forthrightness are all very important qualities in a leadership role. Be prepared to stand behind anything that you say and take the consequences for it.

KSN: When you say things like that, I have to say that you’re an inspiration to many young people on the island. Are you aware of how your image drives young men, especially, to get into business?

JS:I’ve always had a good relationship with young males in Bermuda. I think that comes from trying to fulfill the image that I give off, and leading not from policies, but from setting a standard – a standard in what you say, in how you look, how you conduct yourself in a particular set of circumstances. When people see me, there’s a consistency. They know who I am. They know that we can have a two-way conversation about whatever they need to be a leader in the community – that doesn’t necessarily mean government, it could mean at a school or on a football field.

KSN: What advice do you give them?

JS:Many people want to receive and don’t understand that it’s when you give, that you get back the encouragement to succeed. I say, give your honest opinion, and not the one that you think you’re supposed to give. From a young man in board rooms, I was invited to be a part of the Young Presidents’ Organization; because I said what I thought. You want to make people re-evaluate their thoughts. But don’t be forceful, that’s how people shut down.

KSN: That’s true because some people who experience the great success in leadership, find that it brings out the worst part of their personalities. What do think about that?

JS:Sometimes people get caught up in their egos and they believe that they know everything. I think it’s the biggest mistake that people make. It’s important to be humble; and to work together with others to find your potential and vice versa. If you think that your leadership or your success is based solely on you, then you are doomed to fail.

KSN: What does Innovation in leadership look like?

JS:The world is going through a very uncertain period as a result of the technological revolution in the past 25 years, forcing us to redefine the norms.  We went from the whole world sending messages at 780 miles an hour – the speed of sound – to sending messages at 196,000 miles per second – the speed of light. That’s how information is flowing. Everyone has access to information; but some are trying to hold on to the old world.

Innovation in leadership looks like bringing energy back to Bermuda. Right now, Bermudians are going away to school – London, Toronto, New York – and coming back saying, “What am I doing here?” They have to feel like they can continue their education, and contribute. Some young Bermudians are just staying away because there’s nothing here for them. Leadership looks like asking Bermudians about what they want, and facilitating it, not dictating it. It’s a commitment to making Bermuda a viable place for everyone – even if it means bringing people in to get the job done. We have to step on new ground.

I think blockchain is very important, but it can’t be just about that. When you sit down to a meal, you want to have potatoes on the plate and vegetables on the plate, but you want to have meat on the plate, too (smile).

KSN: What is your vision for our island in the future?

JS:Whether you are a corporation or an individual in the leadership role, make Bermuda a place that everyone feels proud to participate in. There’s been a withdrawal, and a fear in people that if they say something there will be grave consequences. There is nothing more damaging than fear. I hold the leaders responsible not to inject the fear in others. Let’s reconstruct Bermuda.

KSN:Thank you so much for sitting with me.

The post Sir John Swan talks to us about Leadership appeared first on RG Magazines.

What is family?

A family is a commitment. A commitment to nurture, cherish, educate, learn from, support, and rely on each other. A commitment founded on faith, hope, and love. A family is also the moments created within that commitment. The family is not defined by the people themselves, but rather the relationship they co-create together.

How do you demonstrate love in your family?

• Level 1: Subconscious love through fulfilling “responsibility” as a parent – so, getting her ready for school, cooking for her, reading to her, playing with her.
• Level 2: Conscious love – Intentional expression of love through hugging her often, kissing her over 1,000 times a day, telling her I love her. On the days that she’s with her mom, I go to visit her at school every day for lunch, lay next to her cot and stay until she falls asleep for her nap. Even at two years old, I still put her to sleep on my chest every night.
• Level 3: Looking within oneself – Between birth and seven years old, we learn most of what we know from those around us. My commitment to Yamaya is to create better habits and demonstrate a healthy belief system. This also pays off in my own life.

What role does family play in children’s education and development?

Education is something I often challenge, in its traditional self.  Self-discovery is the most important form of education, because it’s the one that truly cannot be taught, it can only be experienced. Self-discovery, if done well, creates a mentality that allows for the creation of any possibility one can conjure.

What have you learned about building healthy relationships?

That it’s a commitment on both ends. Healthy relationships are not easy to build. The commitment to growth and each other has to be at centreof it, if not, it’s easy to get distracted and allow one’s personal wants for immediate or short-term satisfaction to outweigh the possibility of creating something more beautiful together over time.

Thoughts on work-life balance?

I just make sure that I spend time with Yamaya. I work a lot, as an entrepreneur; it’s quite normal to have days that are full of meetings and nights of actually getting work done, and if I think too much about that, time feels scarce, and I get discouraged. Instead, I prefer to believe that things will work out as long as I put attention towards the things that mean most to me.

What can we use more of to build successful families in Bermuda?

This kind of thing is exactly what we need. We need the examples to be easy to find, easy to access, and easy to engage and learn from. Social media has proven to be so inspirational to so many people. I also make myself available to talk with other fathers and just people, in general, to share what I’ve learned along my journey.

Connect with Cushi @cushiming

The post Yemaya and ME appeared first on RG Magazines.

In April 2018, Bermy Distributors embarked on a quest to invest in market research and development of drinks that are of Zero and Low sugar content. This action by Bermy Distributors came to fruition as a direct response to the Governments’ implementation of its Sugar Tax initiative.

The establishment of Bermy’s Naturally Inclined division to complement the Governments’ mandate implied a need to hire a consultant with skills and expertise in promotion, research and entrepreneurship. As a result, Bermy Distributors acquired the services of the unique mother-daughter duo, Anjula Bean and Ashley Gardener. With Ms. Gardener being the Managing Consultant, who spearheaded the research of our new drink.

Anjula Bean and Ashley Gardener are no stranger to entrepreneurship and brings a wealth of experience derived from their owning and managing the popular coffee shop on Front Street, before moving to Court Street. The Managing Director stated,

“Having Juice n Beans was a wonderful introduction to the world of entrepreneurship. We both learned a lot, about business, ourselves, and built a great number of relationships with customers and vendors over the years. We are honoured and grateful for the support the community has shown us over the years.”

 Under the auspice of Bermy Distributors Chairman, the duo went on to further research the health benefits associated with the Award-Winning Nature Wise Organic Ashwagandha Energy Drink – Enhances Focus. Reduces Stress. Improves Mood.

“The NatureWise Organic Ashwagandha Energy Drink contains 15 grams of sugar, 15 g of carbohydrates per bottle, and is fortified with the Indian super-herb, Sensoril. This makes it a healthier alternative to many beverages already on the market. The addition of the Ashwagandha takes it to the next level. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha supports your entire being: Mind, Body, and Spirit. Ashwagandha drinks have numerous health benefits for all age groups: men, women, and children. These beverages are intended to be a simple, real and organic alternative to many of the popular energy drinks on the market today.

One of the biggest aversions we’ve come across during our survey is that traditional energy drinks give the immediate high, jitters, and of course, ‘the crash’. The NatureWise Ashwagandha line has about ¼ less of the caffeine found in coffee, and each flavour type containing under 15g of natural cane sugar, with the additional natural benefits of Ashwagandha, a single can gives the boost many require, with no crash or jitters later.”

As these products are new, we want to provide opportunities to the public not only to try the product, but also learn about the wholesome wellness effects of Ashwagandha. We have done our first successful showcasing of these drinks at Lindo’s Market, Devonshire. We will inform the public when the others will be done throughout the Island in the coming weeks. We currently have 3 flavours: cherry lime rooibos, berry guayusa, tropical white tea available for purchase in over 20 locations throughout the island.

Keeping in mind our directive, we are looking at zero to low sugar, or sugar substitute beverages to the market in the coming months. Our aim is to provide healthier beverage alternatives; our other beverages would be substituted with Stevia, a natural sweetener with few to no calories, and none of the after effects sugars is known to have.

For more information about the Award Winning –NatureWise Organic Ashwagandha Energy Drink products, contact: Ashley Gardner, Managing Consultant, Bermy Distributors/Naturally Inclined at [email protected] or Facebook and Instagram at @NaturewiseBDA.

Beverages can be found in BIU Esso Gas Station, Lindo’s Market Warwick & Devonshire, 24 Hour Gas Station, Terceira’s Managed Gas Stations, Bermuda College Book Store, Phoenix Stores, Cmart and other places you go for refreshments. Or visit them at upcoming tastings across the island:

Dec. 7 Esso Tigermart Warwick

Dec. 8 C-Mart

Dec. 10 KEMH Staff Cafeteria

Dec. 11 Somer’s Cafe

Dec. 12 Roy’s Kitchen

Dec. 13 Port Royal Gas Station

Dec. 14 East Broadway Service Station

Dec. 15 People’s Pharmacy

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