Hemma creates fresh, elegant collections using authentic hand-woven Kente, a textile rich in African royal tradition. Kente began to flourish in West Africa in the 17th century and still remains prominent representing social prestige, luxury, and cultural sophistication. Each garment is uniquely handmade from intricately hand-woven Kente imported from Ghana. By incorporating the same techniques used to dress Ghanaian nobility for centuries, Hemma allows each client to exude royalty. By investing in quality pieces that last a lifetime, the lives of Ghanaian school children are also impacted. A percentage of all proceeds will be donated to a West African middle school where the designers instructed classes.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Beauty Tip Tuesday – The Wonders of Vitamin E

We had an amazing July 4th at Robert Moses Beach in Babylon, NY. Finally New Yorkers are seeing amazing weather without “a chance of scattered thunderstorms.” Edna and I were happy to get back some of the tan Ghana left us with, but the sun definitely altered my skin.My skin was left in need for some intense moisture and once I tried Vitamin E oil, I knew I could never go back. It seemed to eliminate the sun damage and left my skin feeling really soft.

Vitamin E has powerful effects on the skin by acting as an antioxidant and protecting it from skin damaging environmental components like UV rays and pollution. If you apply it at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, Vitamin E oil will absorb into the epidermis layer of the skin and protect it from the early stages of UV damage while increasing the effectiveness of any sunscreen used.

It also encourages new cell growth for a speedy recovery of minor sun burn. The oil should be applied to the sunburned areas twice a day until it is healed. It also works great on scars and blemishes as it lightens the damaged skin and finally removes it over time.

By and large the media ignores the connection between topical vitamins creating healthier skin and focuses on camouflaging problems through surgical procedures and make-up. Let’s remember the cheaper, more effective, and natural protective and restorative tools we can use.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Obama in Ghana!

Obama visited Ghana today, the first African country he travels to as President. He spoke to the Ghanaian Parliament and the world, about his Global vision that includes African participation and progress.

Ghana was the first country in Africa to win back its independence from overt colonial control and is one of the most socio-economically stable countries on the continent. Ghana continuously tops the list of African countries that are reducing poverty and improving quality of life through economic growth and a commitment to democracy, a trend that is growing across Africa. To read more about why Obama chose Ghana as his first visit, Check out ONE, a grassroots campaign and advocacy organizaion that's committed to fighting against extreme poverty and preventable disease. Watch OBAMA'S speech!

CHECK OUT THE KENTE BEHIND OBAMA, fab!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Ciaafrique Interviews Hemma

We were recently interviewed about Hemma by Ciaafrique. It was great working with Ciaa and to be featured on such an innovative and cool blog. This blog is special because it highlights fabulous fashions that are inspired in some way by the African continent. Ciaa keeps us up to date with the beauty and style from another part of the world!