Australian singer, Tony Dee, will be belting out tunes from The Great American Songbook at the incredible True Colours Festival this weekend.
Photograph by Rock This! Photography
What are you most looking forward to at the True Colours Festival?
Performing with the other artists at the Festival, in numbers that show off our talents together.
Why do you feel the ethos behind the Festival is so important?
We should celebrate our abilities and our perceived disabilities. Respect for the uniqueness of each person on this planet is of paramount importance. I am grateful to Very Special Arts Singapore (VSA) for this bold initiative in producing the Festival.
What have you found has been your biggest challenge in pursuing a career in the music industry?
Probably my lack of self-belief, which is gradually being turned around – especially recently.
Tell us about your experience with the Rio Paralympics [Tony was the voice of the We’re the Superhumans ad for the RIO TV coverage in 2016].
Making the Rio Paralympics promo was a heap of fun and I got to mix with some amazing people from around the world. I learned a lot about film-making – more so than singing. We had such a professional crew with an award-winning director. It was always going to be a hit.
What do you feel you personally got out of being involved with the We’re the Superhumans project?
I got a big boost in my confidence because I heard what I had recorded in the studio and it was really good! It was actually the first time I had ever heard myself recorded on anything better than a home stereo or phone.
Dream collaboration?
I like to sing the songs from what’s known as The Great American Songbook. They are swing tunes and love ballads sung by masters such as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole. So, my dream collaboration would be with Tony Bennett. A “Tony and Tony” duet. A close second would be Michael Bublé.
True Colours Festival, the Asia Pacific Celebration of Artistes with Disabilities runs 23-25 March.
Charley Larcombe has a business lunch which boasts Catalan tastes, whilst nestled in Singapore’s CBD.
You really are spoilt for choice for where to lunch if you’re office is located in the CBD. Every type of cuisine is within walking distance or, at the click of an app, it can be delivered straight to your desk.
However, if you’re looking for a midday business spot with good food, good history and a good space for a productive chat with colleagues, check out Gaig, tucked away on a quieter street off Telok Ayer.
This Catalan restaurant has an impressive back story; its older sister in Barcelona has been in the Gaig family since 1869 and it earned its first Michelin Star in ’93. Luckily for us, celebrated Chef Carles Gaig has curated a delicious menu of tapas and traditional Catalan dishes for this Singapore ‘outpost’ which is managed by his daughter Nuria Gibert. Rest assured you’re tasting the real flavours of Barca. Everything is made ‘in-house’ in the kitchen or imported directly from Spain to perfectly recreate the original dishes and to ensure an authentic experience.
Must tries include the traditional cannelloni, a 150-year-old recipe of roasted meat, wrapped in homemade pasta and bathed in truffle sauce; and the squid ink seafood fideuà which is similar to paella but with vermicelli noodles to give a nod to the region. A dish for the ravenous is the oven-roasted suckling pig for melt-in-your-mouth goodness, whilst a selection of the tapas plates – the croquettes are the winners – would be ideal for sustenance whilst brain storming with your team.
Do take a moment to talk to Nuria who is charming and knowledgeable but also fascinating in her stories for each dish; not only do your tastebuds get the flavours of Spain, but your transported there too by her accounts of the history of her family and the original Taberna d’en Gaig.
Lucy James talks us through the numerous benefits of ANZA Athletics to your kids.
It’s no secret that sports help children build confidence, develop focus, and teach them about emotional control. They also learn essential life skills, such as hard work, patience, persistence, and how to respond positively to setbacks and failure. At ANZA Athletics we strive to do all this in a safe, fun and supportive environment.
As children from many schools take part in ANZA Athletics, new friendships are also formed throughout the season. Athletics give kids the opportunity to develop personally, socially and physically through participation in a variety of activities.
In addition to improving a child’s physical ability, another key aim of ANZA Athletics is to help them cultivate a sense of sportsmanship by supporting one another in their efforts. Positive reinforcement from peers is beneficial for both sides.
At the weekly athletics meets, children get to learn the skills of track running, hurdles, discus, shot put, long jump, triple jump and high jump. They are exposed to all of these events during a six-week rotating program – learning these skills and building on them over successive weeks and seasons.
The 2017/2018 ANZA Athletics season is just finishing, but registration for the 2018/2019 season will open in May – don’t miss out and register early!
There is always plenty of room for more wonderful volunteers to join the Committee, so if you are keen, please get in touch.
ANZA Athletics caters to kids aged 5 to 14-years-old, with a focus on fun, fitness and skills, and is held at Yio Chu Kang Stadium.
Enlisting the services of a personal trainer is a big decision! There are many factors to consider such as cost, time, and benefits. Perhaps you have been contemplating taking on a personal trainer since Christmas, but still haven’t been able to take the plunge. The benefits of training with a personal trainer are plentiful, and it is one of the best investments you can make in your personal health and wellbeing.
Read the top five benefits of training with a personal trainer, so you can decide if it is the right time to make the next investment in YOU!
1. Motivation
Let’s face it. Getting up to go to the gym is difficult. When the alarm goes off, it can be hard to find the drive to get into that gym gear, lace up the trainers, and get in the car. Training with a personal trainer gives you the motivation to start each and every session because you have made a commitment to training with someone else, someone who is equally invested in seeing you meet your training plan.
2. Personalisation Training
Of course, it’s in the name, but a key benefit of training with a personal trainer is PERSONALisation. Every individual’s body is different; every body’s goals are different. Therefore, every training plan should be tailored to suit specific desired outcomes. Unlike the ‘one size fits all’ classes that require participants to mould into the structure of the class, enlisting a personal trainer gives you the opportunity to train to your needs.
3. Training Safety
One of the biggest setbacks to achieving fitness goals is injury, especially for those just starting out on their training journeys. Incorrect technique, bad habits and overworking your body can not only hinder your immediate progress, but can also cause long-term damage.
4. Confidence
Sometimes working out in public spaces like parks and gyms can be very daunting, especially if you’re unsure what you’re doing. Training with a personal trainer gives you the confidence to not only perform the exercises correctly, but to also feel comfortable in a variety of fitness spaces. Before long you will be equipped to tackle the weight room or the outdoor circuit on your own, and there’s nothing like a boost to the ego to promote stronger motivation for committing to your exercise program long term.
5. Overall satisfaction
When you’re feeling good about yourself and your body, the satisfaction that is generated emanates. By sticking to the promises you’ve made to yourself and your personal trainer, you will feel more physically, mentally and spiritually nourished. We all know that rush of feeling that comes from finishing a hard session. When training with a personal trainer, you’ll be able to see the fruits of your hard work, and will carry that feeling of satisfaction throughout all aspects of your personal life.
Looking for a Personal Trainer in Singapore? Contact us for more information today! www.pts.sg
TRAVEL: Rafael Dalmau explores current travel hotspot, Portugal, discovering a country of great food, spell-binding architecture and welcoming people.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
Over the years, I’ve peered through a miniscule window into the Portuguese culture or rather its presence around the world. As I’ve observed during my travels in Asia, the country’s influence is glimpsed in the architecture and culture of Sri Lanka, Penang, Malacca and, most of all, Macau. However, such brief experiences did not prepare me for the marvels I saw in the actual country, when I visited Portugal with my wife last June.
The first stop on our Portuguese tour was the beautiful city of Porto. A magnificent location, it is divided by the calm waters of the Duoro River, yet criss-crossed by colossal bridges connecting both sides.
The name Porto, of course, evokes the fortified wine that many of us have had at the end of a hearty meal. However, it is so much more than a wine producer; it’s one of the oldest cities in Europe (dating as far back as 300BC) and is the second largest after Lisbon. Its rich history includes an incarnation as an outpost of the Roman Empire and being declared an UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a city filled with wonderful sights, food, culture, arts, and, above all, friendly people.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
We roamed the city by foot; taking in the sights and marvelling at the imposing architecture including the Sao Benito train station where the lobby walls are covered by the famous Portuguese tile-work.
The city has many memorable landmarks and one in particular stands out for visitors: Livraria Lello. This beautiful building with its heavy art nouveau and gothic influence was an inspiration for the library in the Harry Potter movies, thus attracts a multitude of fans and tourists. Be sure to go early to miss the crowds.
As self-confessed foodies, we were left delighted – the food was fantastic! We tried much of the local cuisine with a bias for all seafood including Portugal’s famous dry-cod fish dishes, although we skipped the locals’ favourite: tripe.
In the gastronomical sense, it seems that no visit to Porto is complete without trying the francesinha, the Portuguese take on the French croque monsieur. Be warned vegetarians; this isn’t the snack for you as the sandwich is filled with different meats and covered with a red, beer-based sauce (every restaurant claims to have its own recipe); a delicious and very filling treat.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
We then moved onto the capital city, Lisbon. Instead of opting for a train ride, we chose to rent a car and drive along the stunning coastline, giving ourselves time to appreciate the scenery and stop and stare where we chose. We paused for lunch at a small cidade where we enjoyed a plate of freshly caught sardines and a glass of the local wine. We also dropped by the coastal town of Nazare, well-known for some of the biggest waves in the world and a paradise for monster-wave surfers, before driving onto our destination. As we approached Lisbon, we caught a good view of Vasco da Gama Bridge, a truly impressive sight, before driving along the beautiful tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s main avenue.
After checking into our charming hotel, we set out along Rua Augusta, a pedestrian-only street lined with dramatic black and white tiles. This took us to the remarkable Praca do Comercio or as it is commonly known, Terreiro do Paco – Palace Yard. Prior to the devastating 1755 earthquake, the Royal Palace was situated in this location. Nothing seems small in this square, the buildings are large and painted in bright yellow, and the skies are deep blue under the scorching sun. After a long stroll along the boulevards, we arrived at the red brick walls of Campo Pequeno, the bullring and a popular monument in Lisbon (worth noting that under Portuguese law, the bull is never killed). The city truly is a vibrant cultural collage that has taken many centuries to forge – and the best way to fully appreciate the architecture and iconic sights of this amazing city is undoubtedly on foot.
Photography by Raf Dalmau
However, when your shoes start to pinch, there is another option. We unapologetically, took the hop-on/hop-off bus to further our acquaintance with the city. It was definitely time well spent as it’s a vast city to cover. Bear in mind that there are plenty of hills, but luckily the elevador system helps you reach these upper parts. The system not only includes the famous yellow trams; but also the city lifts such as the Elevador Santa Justa, the most famous and not to be missed.
Like many a capital, Lisbon is made up of many, many areas. However, Baixa and Rossio, Alfama, Chiado, Principe Real, Cais do Sodre, and Bairro Alto are amongst the most popular and where the main areas of interest are located. The latter changes dramatically from day to night. During the day, Bairro Alto is a shopping and somewhat bohemian district, but at night it transforms into a hotspot for nightlife teeming with restaurants, wine bars, and clubs.
A short ride away from Lisbon’s old-part of town is the district of Belem, which offers some of the most amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this part of the world. These include Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, an impressive monastery commissioned in the early 16th century and built in the Portuguese old-gothic style known as Manueline with magnificent serene interiors. There is also the Torre de Belem which was built as a fort overlooking the Tagus River; and the relatively new Padrão dos Descobrimentos which represents and celebrates the ‘Age of Discovery’.
In Belem (and next to Jeronimos) is a bakery known for its delicious flaky custard tarts called pasteis de Belem. These pastries have been made here since 1837 and are famous all over Portugal. While many cafes, bakeries and restaurants offer pasteis de nata; these are just not the same. This simple and tasty treat is worth the fare to get to Belem!
Lisbon is a city where a simple stroll turns into a history, architecture and gastronomical lesson; and a coffee stop can become an evening making new friends with the locals. I was amazed by the colours and diversity of this city. Whilst parts of it date back to Roman times, it has the energy and attitude of a young town. The people are warm and welcoming, but don’t let that relaxed countenance fool you; these are people ready to roll up their sleeves and work hard. There is a tremendous amount of pride in their daily work and their heritage that purveys throughout the streets. Despite spending only a short time in Portugal, I know that Lisbon in particular, is a place where we could retire and live wonderfully.
SOUL FUEL COLUMNIST: Book a holiday that heals you this month encourages Kim Forrester.
There is no doubt that living in Singapore brings with it an amazing range of benefits. Not least of these is the fact that – with direct flights to nearly 130 destinations – living here offers amazing opportunities to travel. But, as any seasoned expat knows, life on the Little Red Dot can also be emotionally and psychologically stressful; the busy-ness, noise, crowds and isolation from all that is most familiar can be tough on our wellbeing in subtle, and not so subtle, ways.
In order to truly thrive in Singapore, it is imperative that you acknowledge and nurture your mind, body and soul. And travel can be the perfect opportunity to do so! So, while making the effort to travel the region, I encourage you to integrate holistic health into your plans. This is especially important if you are struggling with stress, depression, claustrophobia, chronic loneliness or other challenging effects of expat life.
There are three ways, in particular, you can incorporate greater wellbeing into your desire to travel. These are:
CONNECTING BACK TO NATURE: It’s hard to overstate the incredible effect that nature has on our emotional health and overall wellbeing. Scientists have discovered that being in natural spaces improves a multitude of physical and cognitive processes, including lowering stress hormones, increasing brain function and slowing our heart rate. We are natural beings and, quite simply, getting back into nature heals us. Bear this in mind when booking your travel destinations. Look regularly for destinations that offer the vital elements Singapore lacks: natural spaces, big skies and open horizons.
GOING WHERE THERE’S NOTHING TO DO: Our modern world is based on the concept of constant doing. We are often so used to being busy, that we are unaware of the impact this is having on our wellbeing. Many of us find it hard to slow down, but the truth is there is a desperate need for us to do “nothing” on occasion. Instead of looking for travel destinations where you are always on the go, try travelling to locations that offer (or even force) you to slow the heck down! If you have trouble slowing down, nudge yourself gently into the slower pace of life. Give yourself something to do that is not stressful – like completing a book, learning to surf, or taking a cycling tour.
TRAVELLING WITH UPLIFTING COMPANIONS:As important as a travel destination can be, it’s equally as vital to be discerning about who you travel with. Science has shown that happiness is contagious; hanging around happy people will actually increase your sense of joy and wellbeing. In addition, laughter has been proven to lower stress, boost the immune system and increase a sense of wellbeing. Laughter really is medicine. In contrast, being surrounded by people who are pessimistic, unhappy or nasty has a measurable, detrimental effect on your mental and physical health. For a truly healing holiday, choose your companions wisely. Travel with friends and family who leave you feeling uplifted, inspired and good about life.
Kim Forrester is a holistic wellbeing author, consultant and educator. www.kimforrester.net
Meet Mr. Sam See, stand-up and improv’ comic – and the MC for ANZA’s Hilarity for Charity event on Wednesday 18 April.
What was the day job before becoming a full-time comic?
I was a show runner and producer for other comedy shows and festivals, but I gave that up last year to fully focus on being a performer.
What do you draw on most with your comedy?
It seems weird to say but “anger” and “hate”! Things that annoy me drives me to speak in a passionate and funny way about them.
What would people be most surprised at when coming to see your set?
The fact that I am acerbic and caustic, all coming out from something that small and petite.
Toughest gig?
Performing in front of my parents for the first time in a theatre. They haven’t disowned me yet so I guess I did okay.
Who’s been the most exciting comic to open for?
Honestly, all of the people I’ve opened for. I’ve been fortunate that it’s nothing but a pleasure to watch and work with other stand-up performers.
Do you do many charity events?
I have done a number of them through my time in comedy, and they’re always fun! (Especially when the audience has a drink… or five).
What can ANZA members look forward to with your set at Hilarity for Charity?
A host that’ll wow you, entertain and also help you to finish off any alcohol you can’t consume.
The evening is in aid of IC2 Prephouse and Dignity Mama, two incredibly worthwhile charities which will benefit massively from your generosity and by attending Hilarity for Charity. We look forward to seeing you there.
“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.” Albert Einstein
GEMS World Academy in Singapore.
The mission of the International Baccalaureate is to develop active, internationally minded, inquiring and compassionate young people who want to make a difference in the world.
One of the five essential elements that help contribute to this is Action.
We believe that education must extend beyond the intellectual and result in students doing something with what they have learned. We encourage every student to think about their place in the world, what is happening and what they can do to contribute to it.
At GEMS World Academy (Singapore) we create unique opportunities for our students to participate in community service projects to develop leadership and innovative skills and evolve as global citizens. Children learn kindness, respect, and empathy – feeling and emotions that connect them to others. To understand them, the students must experience these feelings.
This month our G5 students had an exciting camping adventure at Loola Adventure Resort Bintan. The students had a great chance to develop real-world & teamwork skills, showcasing leadership and decision-making through this community service project.
Here is what they had to say about their adventure:
“The camp was an absolutely amazing experience for everyone! We had a lot of fun doing mud trek and kayaking around the mangroves and took part in community service project. We had to build a safe water garden for a local family near the resort. We had to work as a team and we felt good doing community service for a family living there!” Grade 5 students
This is a great example of how students can make a difference in the lives of others to make this world a better place. Community service involvement is a real action. Volunteering teaches students compassion and understanding. Through community service the students leave their mark on the global and local community.
We are delighted to welcome CONNECT by Crossbridge, Singapore’s first and largest robo-advisor, as one of ANZA’s Gold Sponsors.
The 18-month partnership includes sponsorship of the “Chill, Chat, Connect: Networking Series” – a series of three business networking events covering a range of topics for a corporate audience – and Team Sponsorship in the ANZA Soccer Junior League.
Taking place this week and with further ones in June and November later this year, the “Chill, Chat, Connect: Networking Series” provides a platform for professionals to connect over topics on Paradoxical Thinking, Cyber Security and Confidence as an Inside Job. Guest speakers have been invited for each session to explore the theme with a corporate audience.
CONNECT by Crossbridge will also be a Team Sponsor of ANZA’s U8-U18 Soccer Junior League from August 2018 to April 2019. With more than 950 players, representing 21 nationalities, the ANZA Junior Soccer League provides opportunities for children aged 3 to 18 to participate in organised grassroots soccer in a fun, friendly and social environment in Singapore. Organised by parent volunteers, the Saturday Club League encourages more involvement and social interaction between parents and their children as they support their teams by taking on the roles of Coach, Assistant Coach and Team Parent while forging relationships on and off the pitch every Saturday.
“CONNECT by Crossbridge aims to help people take back control of their investments and give them the freedom to achieve their goals – in business, family life and giving back to the community,” said Charlie O’Flaherty, Partner and Head of Digital Strategy & Distribution, Crossbridge Capital. “This sponsorship helps us to make a direct contribution to the vibrant and active ANZA community through networking and sport. We hope it will have a positive influence on those involved in both of these excellent initiatives.”
Kerry Low, General Manager, ANZA, said, “We are delighted to welcome CONNECT by Crossbridge, Singapore’s first digital financial advisory platform, as a Gold Partner to ANZA. Our business networking and junior soccer league events are at the heart of the ANZA community and calendar. With the support of CONNECT by Crossbridge, they continue to go from strength to strength.”
When did you get involved with netball?
I started out as a player in JC then came into coaching 13 years ago – I’ve loved every moment since. It is a beautiful sport that teaches and empowers girls/women with values and skills that can be transferred into their lives.
Why did you become a coach?
Possibly because I like telling people what to do… but then, really it’s something that has taught me so much. It’s so addictive; I don’t think I’ll ever stop.
What do you need to do to qualify as a coach?
1) Passion for people. 2) Professional certifications. 3) A willingness to learn and grow. 4) A good eye and a balanced mind.
Where else do you coach netball?
Local Schools, National Age Groups 17/19s, NSL, my club – Zenith and a sports academy called Sports Values that I have set up.
What quick tips can improve a player?
‘Build strong basics’. Stacey, West Coast Fever’s Coach told me quite often the things they do seem simple but she believes if you can do that simple thing better than your opponent, you win. I totally agree. As you learn more advanced skills, you need those basics to support the finer executions.
Are there other sports that you recommend to helping improve in netball?
I think playing multiple sports is great for the holistic development of the player, especially at a young age. Different sports develop different areas of the athlete physically and mentally. I attended a workshop conducted by a coach that teaches athletic movements to youth teams in one of the top European football clubs and he mashes different sports/activities into their training sessions. It is fun, engaging and develops the creativity of players, making them great problem-solvers when they eventually specialise.
What sort of coach do you think you are?
My philosophy is I love my players. I love netball. Then, I love to win. I think you can pretty much know from there.
What do you most enjoy about the game?
I really like that netball, being a predominantly female sport, is used to help empower girls and women all over the world to be strong, healthy and valued. I enjoyed moments that push me and my teams (playing or coaching) to the limits. Also, the comraderies forged in the process which will stick for life.
What is particularly special about ANZA Netball?
I like that it has a player-orientated, caring and supportive environment. It comes through every session whether it’s volunteer coaches dedicating their time in helping the girls get better, or the parents supporting their children and teams with frozen oranges and watermelons.
Read the top five benefits of training with a personal trainer, so you can decide if it is the right time to make the next investment in YOU!
