Beryl Ayuma: Kenya’s Curvy Model and an Upcoming Fashion Icon

 Beryl Ayuma is an emerging Kenyan fashion model whose confidence, determination and passion for style are helping her make a mark in the fashion industry. As a curvy model, she proudly embraces her body and represents the beauty of diversity, proving that fashion has no single definition of elegance or glamour.

Self-determined and ambitious, Beryl has participated in numerous fashion events, where she has continued to showcase her modelling talent, stage presence and unique personality. Her dedication and hard work have also earned her several titles, highlighting her growing influence and achievements in the modelling scene.

Beyond the runway, Beryl has had opportunities to collaborate with designers and fashion brands locally and regionally. Among her notable collaborations is her work with Joyway Fashion Brand, a creative label known for making bespoke women's designs, including stylish jumpsuits. Such partnerships allow her to explore different fashion expressions while supporting designers who celebrate individuality, creativity and feminine elegance.

What makes Beryl stand out is her determination to keep growing, take on new opportunities and inspire other aspiring models. She brings confidence to every appearance and understands that modelling is not just about wearing beautiful outfits, but also about personality, discipline and the ability to communicate through style.

As she continues to build her portfolio and connect with more creative talents, Beryl Ayuma is steadily positioning herself as a promising name in Kenya's fashion industry. Her journey is a celebration of confidence, curves and ambition, with an exciting future ahead as an upcoming fashion icon.

5 Medicinal Aloe Plants: Amazing Traditional Uses And Potential Health Benefits

 Aloe plants are among the most fascinating succulents in the world. Known for their fleshy leaves, distinctive appearance and ability to survive in dry environments, different aloe species have been used in traditional medicine for generations. Today, aloe plants are popular in skincare, cosmetics, herbal preparations and botanical research.

However, not every aloe plant has the same medicinal properties. While some species have attracted scientific attention, others are primarily ornamental. It is also important to understand that traditional use does not automatically prove medical effectiveness.

Here are five aloe species worth knowing about and what science says about their potential health benefits.

1. Aloe Vera: The Famous Plant for Natural Skincare

Aloe vera is arguably the most recognised medicinal aloe plant worldwide. Its thick green leaves contain a clear gel widely used in moisturisers, skin products and cosmetic preparations.

Some of its potential benefits include:

• Skin moisturising: Aloe vera gel helps hydrate and soothe the skin.

• Minor burn care: Research suggests topical aloe gel may help speed the healing of certain superficial and minor burns.

• Acne management: Some small studies suggest aloe gel may improve acne when used alongside conventional treatments.

• Skin inflammation: Its compounds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory research.

Aloe vera is also being investigated for its potential antioxidant properties and other health applications. However, evidence for many advertised benefits remains limited.

2. Aloe Ferox: The Powerful Cape Aloe

Native to southern Africa, Aloe ferox is commonly known as Cape aloe or bitter aloe. It is a large succulent recognised by its impressive leaves and tall flowering structure.

Traditionally, this species has been used to produce bitter aloe preparations. Its yellow leaf latex contains compounds known as anthraquinones, including aloin, which have strong laxative effects.

Researchers are also interested in its phytochemicals and their potential antioxidant properties.

However, Aloe ferox latex is not a harmless natural remedy. Consuming it can cause abdominal cramps, severe diarrhoea, dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. It should not be used for self-treatment.

3. Aloe Arborescens: The Branching Medicinal Aloe

Aloe arborescens is another interesting species traditionally used in herbal preparations. Unlike the familiar single-rosette appearance of Aloe vera, this species develops branching stems and produces attractive red-orange flowers.

Its potential medicinal properties have attracted scientific research, particularly concerning:

• Antioxidant compounds.

• Potential anti-inflammatory activity.

• Antimicrobial properties observed in laboratory studies.

• Bioactive plant chemicals that may have future pharmaceutical applications.

Despite these interesting findings, most research remains preliminary. More human clinical studies are necessary before its medicinal effectiveness can be established.

4. Aloe Maculata: The Spotted Soap Aloe

Aloe maculata, commonly called spotted soap aloe, is recognised by its broad leaves decorated with distinctive pale markings.

Some communities have traditionally used this species for skin-related purposes. Its plant compounds have also attracted botanical interest.

Although it is an interesting plant for traditional medicinal research, there is currently limited human clinical evidence confirming specific health benefits.

It is also a popular ornamental succulent because of its attractive appearance and colourful flowers.

5. Aloe Marlothii: The Impressive Mountain Aloe

Aloe marlothii, commonly known as mountain aloe, is a large species native to parts of southern and eastern Africa.

It is particularly interesting because of its traditional medicinal history and its ability to thrive in challenging environments.

The plant has been investigated for its phytochemical composition, including compounds that may have antioxidant activity.

However, its medicinal effectiveness, safe dosage and suitability for treating particular health conditions have not been established through sufficient human clinical research.

What About Other Aloe Species?

Beyond these five, there are several other interesting aloe plants worth exploring.

• Aloe juvenna: Also called tiger tooth aloe, it is primarily grown as an ornamental succulent.

• Aloe brevifolia: A compact species valued for its attractive clustered growth.

• Aloe polyphylla: Famous for its beautiful spiral arrangement of leaves.

• Aloe striata: Known as coral aloe, it is appreciated for its smooth leaves and reddish edges.

• Aloe camperi: Recognised for its attractive yellow-orange flower clusters.

These species are fascinating examples of aloe diversity, although their medicinal benefits are not well established.

Important Health Warning: Not Every Aloe Plant Is Safe to Consume

One of the biggest misconceptions about aloe plants is that all their leaves contain safe, beneficial gel.

Aloe leaves have different components, and understanding the difference is essential.

1. Clear inner gel

This is the transparent substance found inside the leaf. Aloe vera inner gel is commonly used in skincare products and is generally well tolerated when applied appropriately.

2. Yellow latex

This substance is found just beneath the outer green leaf skin. It contains aloin and other compounds with strong laxative effects. Oral consumption can cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea and potentially serious complications.

3. Whole-leaf extracts

These preparations may contain both inner gel and outer leaf components. Their safety depends on processing, composition and quality.

According to the US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), oral aloe latex can cause harmful side effects. Aloe preparations taken by mouth may also be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

People taking medication should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using aloe supplements. Do not drink homemade aloe extracts or consume unidentified aloe species.

Why Aloe Plants Deserve More Scientific Attention

Aloe plants represent an interesting intersection between traditional knowledge, biodiversity and modern scientific research.

For centuries, communities across Africa and other parts of the world have valued different aloe species for their practical and traditional uses. Today, researchers continue investigating their natural chemical compounds and potential applications in skincare, cosmetics and medicine.

For countries such as Kenya, which have diverse dryland and semi-arid ecosystems, understanding indigenous and naturally occurring aloe species can also encourage botanical conservation and responsible plant research.

However, protecting these plants is just as important as exploring their potential benefits. Some aloe species have restricted natural distributions and may face threats from habitat loss and overharvesting.

From the widely recognised Aloe vera to the impressive Aloe ferox and branching Aloe arborescens, the aloe family offers an extraordinary range of plants with interesting traditional uses and scientific research potential.

Aloe vera currently has the strongest human research evidence among the species discussed, particularly for certain topical skincare applications and minor burns. Other species remain promising subjects for botanical and laboratory research, but their medicinal effectiveness is not yet established.

Meet Gabby Finesse: A Rising Mombasa Model with a Passion for Fashion and the Runway

 

Gabby Finesse is an emerging Kenyan fashion and runway model based in Mombasa, whose creativity, determination and authentic personality are shaping her journey in the fashion industry. With a growing passion for modelling, she is focused on building a name for herself both on the national and international fashion scenes.

Driven by ambition and a genuine love for self-expression, Gabby enjoys participating in local runway shows across Mombasa, where she gets opportunities to showcase her modelling skills, explore different fashion styles and connect with other creatives. For her, every runway appearance is an opportunity to learn, grow and gain valuable experience in an increasingly competitive industry.

Beyond fashion, Gabby has a strong passion for music, which forms an important part of her lifestyle. She is also an enthusiastic Manchester United fan, proudly embracing her love for the beautiful game.

Gabby believes that self-confidence, teamwork and collaboration are essential ingredients for success. She values working with photographers, designers, fellow models and other industry professionals, recognising that meaningful creative partnerships can open doors to new opportunities.

As she continues to develop her modelling career, Gabby Finesse remains determined to explore bigger platforms, represent Mombasa's growing fashion community and eventually make her mark internationally. Authenticity, creativity and consistency remain at the heart of her journey as she works towards turning her modelling ambitions into reality.

The Polarizing Legacy of Zimbabwe’s Tycoon Chivayo Wicknell

 Even after a tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of Zimbabwean tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, the controversy surrounding him shows no signs of dimming. At just 45, the self-styled "Sir Wicknell" lived a life filled with enough spectacle, political intrigue, and public debate to span generations.

Chivayo built his notoriety on social media, curating a larger-than-life persona through relentless self-documentation. His digital feed was an endless parade of extreme affluence: stacks of physical currency, custom-plated Rolls-Royces, luxury timepieces, and expansive collections of designer footwear. He routinely posted videos showcasing his lavish lifestyle alongside high-profile meetings with African heads of state, using his platform to announce flamboyant gifts of luxury vehicles and money to chosen individuals.

This ostentatious display split public opinion down the middle. To his supporters, Chivayo was a generous philanthropist who shared his immense success with others. To his critics, his flexes were distasteful, raising sharp questions regarding the source of his fortune and his tight political ties. In a nation where World Bank estimates show nearly half the population surviving beneath the international poverty line, many viewed his lifestyle as a painful symbol of national inequality.

Unbothered by public backlash, Chivayo remained brazenly unapologetic. Analysts like Pedzisai Ruhanya, director of the Zimbabwe Democracy Institute, argued that his philanthropy was largely calculated grandstanding aimed at securing backing for the ruling Zanu-PF party by winning over influential figures, politicians, and church leaders.

Despite the skepticism, his death triggered genuine mourning across Zimbabwe’s political, religious, and business circles. At his Harare mansion, grief-stricken beneficiaries gathered to pay tribute. Among them was Zanu-PF influencer Cleopas Mukungunugwa—who received two luxury vehicles from Chivayo—admitting publicly that "Sir Wicknell" often dictated his post content to actively counter online criticism and reshape his image into that of a benevolent benefactor.

Ultimately, Chivayo leaves behind a complicated mark: a benefactor to a favored few, and a symbol of divide to many.

Hawaii Travel Resources to Check During Severe Weather

 Hawaii is a popular destination for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures and unforgettable island experiences. However, severe weather can sometimes affect flights, roads, attractions and travel plans. With storms impacting the islands at different times of the year, visitors should know where to find reliable information before and during their trip.

One of the most useful resources is the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), which provides updates and visitor guidance during severe weather. Its information goes beyond weather forecasts, helping travelers understand whether airports are operating, attractions and parks are open, and whether conditions may affect travel to a particular island. Visitors can also subscribe to the HTA newsletter for updates delivered directly by email.

For information about flights, roads and transportation, travelers can check the Hawaii Department of Transportation, while airlines provide individual flight updates and information about possible travel waivers or changes. Hawaii's counties also offer emergency alert services through text messages or email, which can provide important notices about evacuations, road closures and other local emergencies.

Travelers visiting parks should check the latest information from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and the National Park Service. This is particularly important for destinations such as Haleakala National Park on Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

It is also advisable to contact hotels, tour companies and attractions directly to confirm operating schedules, as conditions can change quickly.

During severe weather, state and county authorities may also share updates through official social media accounts. Following these trusted sources can help visitors make informed decisions and adjust their plans when necessary.

By bookmarking reliable travel and emergency information before departure, visitors can stay informed, respond quickly to changing conditions and enjoy a safer Hawaii experience.

Kenyan Fashion Model Catherine Njeri: Finding Her Place in the World of Fashion and Modelling

 For many young creatives, modelling is more than simply stepping in front of a camera or walking down a runway it is a form of self-expression, confidence and inspiration. Catherine Njeri, popularly known as Kate, is a young pageant model who is exploring her passion for fashion while pursuing her university studies. With a love for photography, personal style and the desire to inspire aspiring models, Kate is steadily building her journey in Kenya’s fashion industry.

From testing the runway for the first time to drawing inspiration from established fashion personalities, Catherine is learning, growing and setting her sights on an ambitious future that could see her working with major fashion brands, owning her own closet and training the next generation of young models.

Here, she talks about her modelling journey, personal style, balancing university with her passion, her inspirations and her dreams for the future.

Q1. Who are you? Tell us a little about yourself and how you first became interested in modelling and fashion.

Catherine Njeri:
My name is Catherine Njeri, people call me Kate though. I'm a pageant model, who loves expressing her art through pictures. My interest in modeling was triggered by the love of being in front of a camera, inspiring small models who want to see themselves archiving their dreams.

Q2. What inspired you to start pursuing modelling while still in university?

Catherine Njeri:
I wouldn't say anyone inspired me, I knew that is what I wanted, I'd say I inspired myself.

Q3. How would you describe your personal fashion style, and what influences your style the most?

Catherine Njeri:
The thought of looking stunning and standing out is what inspires my sense of fashion.

Q4. What has been your most memorable experience as a young model so far?

Catherine Njeri:
When I first decided to test the runway for the first time, I didn't get the crown but I was among the winners and that motivated me to try other runways.

Q5. How do you balance your university studies with modelling, fashion, and your other commitments?

Catherine Njeri:
It's a matter of self discipline and knowing what you want, it gives you the motive to balance and take control of the things you love doing.

Q6. Who are some Kenyan or international fashion personalities who inspire you, and why?

Catherine Njeri:
I'd say Joyliz Gatugi, she's a model and a brand ambassador, I love her sense of fashion and her means of creating content.

Q7. Where do you see yourself in the next five years, and what would you like to achieve in the Kenyan fashion industry?

Catherine Njeri:
I see myself working with fashion brands or owning my closet and training young models.

Planning the Perfect Family Holiday to the Masai Mara

 A family holiday to the Masai Mara is more than just a getaway—it is an opportunity to experience Kenya's incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments together. From watching lions and elephants in their natural habitat to enjoying spectacular sunsets across the savannah, the Mara offers an adventure that families of all ages can enjoy.

However, a memorable safari begins with good planning. One of the first things to consider is choosing the right travel dates. Think about the experiences your family would like to have, the weather, school holidays, and your preferred travel schedule. Planning ahead can also give you more accommodation and transport options to choose from.

Next, look for family-friendly accommodation that provides comfortable rooms, suitable meals, and a relaxing environment after a day of exploring. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from lodges, tented camps, and other safari accommodation options.

Your itinerary should include plenty of game-drive experiences. The Masai Mara is famous for its abundant wildlife, giving families opportunities to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, and numerous bird species. A knowledgeable safari guide can make the experience even more rewarding by helping you understand animal behaviour and the ecosystem.

Remember to pack appropriately for the weather and safari activities. Comfortable clothing, hats, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, binoculars, cameras, and personal essentials can make your adventure more enjoyable. For children, carry snacks, water, and a few simple activities for longer journeys.

Most importantly, don't make the holiday all about a packed schedule. Leave room for relaxation and family time. Enjoy your accommodation, watch the sunset, share stories after a game drive, and allow everyone to appreciate the experience at their own pace.

With thoughtful preparation, your Masai Mara family holiday can become a treasured memory. Great Trailscape Safaris can help make planning your Kenya safari easier and more enjoyable.

Ready for the Mara? Contact Great Trailscape Safaris today and start planning your family adventure!

Mwenyeji Spikes: Where African Identity, Poetry and Life Meet

 In a world where stories increasingly compete for attention, poetry remains one of the most powerful ways to pause, reflect and connect with the human experience. For contemporary African poet, author and creative artist Mwenyeji Spikes, poetry is more than words arranged on a page—it is a journey into life, identity, culture and the emotions that shape us.

Mwenyeji Spikes has developed a distinctive creative voice that brings together poetry, literature, music and spoken-word expression. His work explores the complexities of being human while drawing inspiration from African experiences and cultural identity. Through thoughtful verses and reflective storytelling, he invites readers to look beyond everyday experiences and consider deeper questions about life, hope, resilience and existence.

His literary journey includes Touchdown Poetry, a published poetry anthology exploring themes surrounding love and life. The collection demonstrates his ability to transform personal emotions and everyday observations into creative expressions that readers can relate to.

Another notable work is Full Circle Poetry Anthology, an ebook that further highlights his commitment to creative writing and cultural commentary. The title itself reflects the circular nature of life, experiences and human relationships—ideas that frequently emerge in reflective poetry.

Spikes has also established a digital presence through PoemHunter, where readers can discover a collection of his poems, including Born In Africa and Almost Certainly. These works offer another window into his literary world, touching on questions of identity, possibility, human nature and the African experience.

Beyond written poetry, Mwenyeji Spikes embraces audio and spoken-word creativity. His presence on platforms such as Audiomack demonstrates his interest in bringing words to life through sound, rhythm and musical expression. This intersection of poetry and music gives his artistic work a broader dimension, allowing his ideas to reach audiences beyond traditional literary spaces.

At the heart of Mwenyeji Spikes' creative journey is a desire to tell meaningful stories. His work reflects an artist interested in the questions that define humanity while remaining connected to African culture and lived experiences. Through poetry, music and literature, he continues to create a body of work that encourages readers and listeners to reflect, feel and see the world from a deeper perspective.