An exclusive interview with Nuru Art...

Calvin Queens: - What are your full names and what is the name of your band?

Nuru Art: - Yunilucy Swedi and Cheryl Jelangat.

We are Nuru Art.

Calvin Queens: - How did you meet and what inspired you to form the band?

Nuru Art: - We met back in high school, and we were both into music. We started singing together. After high school we parted ways till last year when Cheryl moved to Nairobi and we connected, venturing back to our talents.

Calvin Queens: - When you recently met, what inspired you to do music?

Nuru Art: - Our passion was still on and we were still writing songs. We decided to form a band and sing out our hearts.

Calvin Queens: - Tell us about your first release.

Nuru Art: - Our first single is known as "Eyes on me." It was written back in 2011 which is an outgoing song for beautiful sexy girls.

Calvin Queens: - That sounds amazing. Who is the producer?

Nuru Art: - Our song has been produced by Philo  at MainSwitch production.

Calvin Queens: - MainSwitch is a great production house. Have you released any album?

Nuru Art: - Not yet. We are on few singles before settling on an album. by mid next year, we could be talking about it.

Cheryl Jelagat, who is a psychology student.

Calvin Queens: - Where do you see yourselves in 3 years to come?

Nuru Art: - We take each day at a time but we are super sure we will have tied a strong knot in music.

Calvin Queens: - What are some of the hobbies you share?

Nuru Art: - Reading, cooking and definitely rendering our ears to music.

Calvin Queens: - Apart from music, what else are you currently doing?

Nuru Art: - Cheryl - I am a student pursuing psychology

                  YuniLucy - I have ventured into fashion design.

Calvin Queens: - In comparison to International music, how would you Kenyan music?

Nuru Art: - Kenyan music is on pick. Although we are far to serve on the same table with international music. I however believe we have something we can offer.

Calvin Queens: - What advice would you give to the youths out there with a talent in music but have not made their journey to the studio?

Nuru Art: - If it keeps buzzing you, do it.

Yunilucy Swedi, a fashion designer by profession.

But make sure you take it all slow. The world will never know about you if you die without doing your best.

KNOW YOUR CELEB

SASHA

"Like ditch me? Hell NO... I am a smart lady"

She is an actress that bears a strong character in what she does. She has played as Benjamin's wife on "Sumu" where as having parallel emotions for Aaron. She claims that she is after Benjamin's cash and later spend a decent life with Aaron. She ends up marrying Benjamin in a ceremony attended by friends and family.

The lovely actress, Sasha

She is Rachael's daughter who was Benjamin's first wife. She has also played as "Laiki" on "Cheche" and Stela" on "Almasi." Sumu and Almasi went on air on K24 while Cheche aired on Maisha Magic. Here is all you need to know about her.

What are your full names

Maureen Wanza Sammy.

When did you begin acting and who inspired you to do acting?

5 years ago. There is this youth group from my hometown walikua wameanzisha production house yao. Wameanzisha production house yao. So their director aliniona akaona I can act...actually I did not do the auditions. I was working in a salon. He came to my salon akanipa scripts and he said "I am giving you 45 minutes unashoot..." yeah that is how it all started.

Wow thats amazing. What has been your nickname all along kutoka shulee and also salon?

Honestly, I do not have a nickname....Mimi hua si mtu wa mambo mob...heheheee...

How many projects have you done so far

Hmmm...7 projects. 3 movies and 4 series

Which is that one device that you can never push on with your life without?

I really cannot tell.

Tell us about your relationship/marital status

I am a mother of one. My lovely champ. He is 8 years. I have never been married.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I have a few collection of novels, love staying indoors and watch movies. If I am not reading and travelling.

Besides acting, what is your side hustle?

Right now I am into music. I am recording an audio as we speak. But mostly I deal with land and plots investments. And Im cooking another biz soon itakua imeiva.

Sasha and her husband Benjamin Kido

Your favorite meal(s) and drink(s)?

Water and fresh juice. For the food, I love kuku kienyeji and ugali and rice. And salad...muhimu sana

Have you ever been ditched by a guy?

Like ditch me? Hell NO... I am a smart lady. Calvin, I see trouble when it is miles away and I am always wise. I do not give a man the benefit of tearing me apart. The one thing is treasure the most is my heart.

If given a chance and authority, what would you change in the film and production industry?

Something that they did leo ama jana...Burning hizi Tele Mundo soaps and these Niger movies to promote our local Kenyan talents. You do not need to fly Desmond Eliot to Kenya and we have people who can give you more than he can.

True. I would totally support you on that. Your worst/craziest and best/greatest days of your life?

I would say everyday is a blessing and a gift to me from The Lord. I always thank God for it be it worse or good.

That sounds so sweet and encouraging. How do you take the response you receive from your fans both positive and negative

Ooh...my smiling face does it all for me...so hata kama negativity pops up, mtu anaona haya. Besides that, I am friendly and that is me.

Have you received any awards?

Yes. A certificate. That is the farthest nimeenda. But I hope God has big plans for me in store. I am pressing on.

Sasha and Musa in a scene on Sumu

Sure. His plans for us are never ending. Which celebrity artiste do you admire the most?

Siwezi nikawataja wote...but honestly, any actress ambaye amegather courage ya kubring out character yake and akatouch hearts za viewers, hata kama ni upcoming artiste may they be young or old. I personally admire such efforts and salute them.

Your dream ambition?

I wanna take my acting career to another level and hopefully become this big movie star im my country... hehehee...

Women are always known to multi-task. Do you?

It depends...Heheheee...Yes I can.

What is your greatest fear?

Death...sometimes though not always. Kwanza before kuachieve my goals.

Everyone has a secret admirer whom they wish would make a move on them. Who is this man that drives you nuts and if he made a move the definite answer would be "YES"?

Sina. I'm kinda different.

Where do you see yourself in 2 years?

God knows my next month, hour, tomorrow better than I do.I live my "NOW" and the rest...is just that.

Do you believe in death and existence of supernatural powers?

Tyson, Benjamin and Sasha during Sasha's wedding

Death yes...

Is the "Sasha" we see on "Sumu" the same as "Maureen Wanza"

No

In Kenneth Ambani (Benjamin on Sumu) proposed to you today to marry you, would you give in?

Heheheeee...mmmh...tempting but... It is a NO

What advice would you give to the youth out there who have a talent and passion in acting but haven't taken the move?

Get out there and show the world what you got. Nothing comes easy and let no one convince you otherwise. No matter how many times you fail in the auditions do not give up. And always let money be the last thing on your mind. Money comes later.

Wow that is a very strong message. Hope they will take this up. Thanks a lot for your precious time. We wish you well in all your endeavors

Sasha on a scene in Cheche as Laiki.

CHIRIKU/TINAH

"Just that I have a baby face, I always convince people that I am Under 18."

       She is a diva that has featured in various premiers including "Almasi" and "Sumu". She has portrayed confidence in what she does making her a favorite to many fans. Talk about 'Chiriku' or Tina.I came across her and held a conclusive interview.

Kibibi Salim who has featured on 'Almasi' and 'Sumu'

What are your official names as known to the Government?

I am Kibibi Salim Mohammed.

Tell us about your family. Any siblings?

I am the first born in the family. I have 7 (seven) siblings, where some want to take after their sister, that I am proud of. My parents are so supportive with my career and I thank God for that.

It is really encouraging to hear that your family supports you. May you strive to greater heights. How has been your education background been like?

Thank you. I am a graduate. I am glad to have done Diploma in Hotel and Catering Management at Mombasa Aviation Training Institute.

When did the journey to being an actress begin?

Back in Primary school, when I was in class IV (Four) back in 2001. I stepped down in High school. When I got to college, I could no longer deny my heart its desire.

Tinah and her dad Benjamin in a scene on 'Sumu.'

This is when I went on, joined some groups, managed to work with Bahari Damils Creations where my producer Mam Ann Hamberger spotted me and liked my work and did a pilot that did not pull through. I am sure God had his reasons. Later on I worked with S.A.F.E Pwani where I gained a lot of skills. Two years later is when i went for auditions at Ashiner Pictures and was selected to play as 'Chiriku' in 'Almasi.' After 'Almasi,' I got to do my second project on air, 'Sumu' where I play as 'Tina.' Wonderful experience I would say

In both episodes, you have acted as teen (an Under 18. Does this reflect your true age or how old are you?

Just that I have a baby face, I always convince people that I am Under 18. The reality is that I am 24years and 2 months old.

You've really done an excellent work as Tina on 'Sumu.' Most people think this is a true reflection and not just acting. We all have people in our lives who mentor us to pursue what we dream. Who motivated you to pursue this inborn talent in you.
My dad is my biggest mentor. He corrects where necessary, n I take it in positively. My fans too, they are my biggest motivation, I would not be where I am without them.

Tinah has mastered her art and is always sure of what she does.

Talking of fans, many requests have come along to interview you. How does it feel when fans are in praise of your work?
Feels good, very good and it makes feel appreciated. I also take in comments from my fans, both positive n negative. I believe they are all meant to build me.

True. Comments help build a character. Apart from acting, what else do you do for a living?
I am a business lady. Since am in love with fashion, I decided to invest in it.

That is so encouraging. Does acting pay well to make anyone take it as a full time career?
I would say it does pay well.

Where do you see yourself in the next 2 years
I would love to leave that to God. All I ask from Him is to bless me with what is rightfully mine.

Amen. Any awards so far?

I got an award early this year as the best upcoming Actress in the Almasi Awards Bash which was held at Jamboree Hotel Mombasa.

Benjamin, Tinah and Steve in action.

Congratulations for that deserved achievement. What is the greatest secret you have kept all along about yourself?
Secrets are not my thing. I am one open lady.

Okay. Tell us about your love life....
Haha... Time will come for that, I am a Muslim lady looking forward to marriage. You are all going to know about him as soon as I am married.

Eagerly waiting. What would you tell the young ladies and gentlemen out there who have a passion and talent in acting?
This is not an easy road. It needs patience to get to where you want. I remember when I used to do some plays without pay, and I never gave up for a second. Go for auditions. It does not matter how many times you are left out. It is not because you are not talented, it may be because you do not fit the role.  Discipline is the key to everything. All the best to all the upcoming actors and actresses.

We wish you well in all your endeavors.
Thank you.

QUEEN MWANGI

"Until to-date, people stop me on the way and ask, 'Where is your twin sister?'"

Queen Mwangi who has featured on 'Almasi' and 'Sumu.'

         Queen Mwangi is a mega star actress that featured in Almasi premier that aired on K24 Tv and 'Sumu' which is currently ongoing. On 'Almasi,' she played 2 characters who were twins, Lina and Nina. On 'Sumu,' she plays as Fiona.

Is Queen your real name?
Yes. Queen Mwangi is my official name.

Your Facebook profile that you were born in 1996. Is this true?
No. It is 1995

You were in JKUAT Karen Campus. What were you pursuing?
It was actually Mombasa campus taking up Bachelor of Commerce but I dropped it for Almasi. Nevertheless, I have enrolled at University of Nairobi, Mombasa Campus pursuing Public Relations.

When did the journey to being an actress begin?
Back in Mbaraki High school.That was in 2010. It was unexpected. Actually, my drama teacher literally pinpointed me from a crowd. I did my first performance at Mombasa Polytechnic hall that year and it was amazing being on stage and at the center of all attention. In short, I have never looked back from then.

What motivated you to pursue acting?
I just fell in love Calvin. The adrenaline I get when I am acting, the desire of not wanting that moment to end. I call this love for acting.

Wow that sounds nice. It is really an inspiration when one has a passion for what he/she does. What are the challenges that come along in the field of acting?
Well, the most outstanding challenge so far is people expecting us to be a "certain" way which is not so. We get judged by how we portray our  character on television. It is just that guys do not understand that that's really us. Actually there is a very big difference between between Nina/Lina and Queen Mwangi, same to Fiona on Sumu. I leave the character on set out here. Its just me... that girl next door who wears specs and is really simple. We leave the glam on set and preserve it for the red carpets.

Fiona and Tinah after a scene on 'Sumu.'

True. Most people will always think that actors portray acting character in real life. Tell us more about your family.
My crazy big family huh...well, I am the second born in a family of  3 girls raised by a single and fabulous mother. We are basically fun loving people.

Who has been your inspiration?
My family. We were raised to stick out our necks for each other. The desire of basically wanting to give them an awesome life makes me get up every morning even when I do not feel like it. My better half has also become a huge inspiration to me. He keeps me going.

What is your vision in the next 5 years?
To see my picture on these huge billboards heheee...that is every actor's dream. On a serious note, by then, I want to have crossed the borders and matured from 'that Kenyan actress' to a brand recognized in East Africa doing movies from all the East African countries.

Wow, that is one of the greatest dream I have met from the celebrities I have interacted with. Keep up the dreams Queen and work towards attaining them. Apart from acting, what else do you do?
Well, I am student at University of Nairobi and currently working on some stuff that I will not disclose here.

Lina at a scene on 'Almasi.'

Okay. Wishing you all the best in your studies and projects. What is the most strange thing that people would get shocked to learn about you?
It is simplest tiniest of things that make me happy.I take immense pressure in life's simple blessings

How was it like acting with 2 different personalities as Lina and Nina in Almasi? What was the most motivating factor in this?
The fact that I wanted these two to be so different despite looking alike. And I did it. Until to-date, people stop me on the way and ask, "Where is your twin sister?" All about 'the same yet so different'

I am sure it gets to be fun when people ask you about your twin sister and are not sure if it is Lina or Nina. Actually, you did it so well that no one would note that this was a sole actress. I must congratulate you for that. Have there been any proposals by media houses to recruit you?
Yes. Several have done it but I am a great believer of one thing at a time. I cannot take up more than 2 roles both running simultaneously on air. It is part of my work strategy.

You are really principled and disciplined. Are you overwhelmed by the response from your fans who always congratulate you even on Social Media?
Yes. One can never get enough of that. It melts my heart everyday when I get inbox from fans wishing me well, others asking for advice to get to where I am professionally and others giving positive criticism which I take and use it to better myself. It is just great. I love my fans.

Part from 'Almasi' and 'Sumu,' what should your fans expect from you?
I am currently working on another series that is set to hit the airwaves on Africa Magic. I also want to get into doing movies.

Lina, Shernah and Nina at a scene on 'Almasi.'

Okay. Describe your typical day from waking up to sleeping.
Well, I am usually awake by 5 am on weekdays. I freshen up, hit the gym and get back home to prepare for work. When I get back home, I clean up, then study and lastly retire to bed.

In many episodes, emotions have always engulfed you prompting you to cry. Does this come deep from your heart?
Definitely yes. It comes from deep inside. Like I said, Queen feels Fiona's pain or whatever character I am playing at the time and I let it take over my emotions. I let it be my driving force and the tears just flow though at times it can really be hard to do so. I have just come out of a laughing scene and here I am on the next scene expected to cry. It is crazy at times but we manage.

You have so many secret admirers out there. What would you tell them?
I am taken but they can keep admiring me I do not mind.

Lastly, a word to the youths out there in the society who want to take acting as a career.

Fiona while filming 'Sumu.'

Never let anyone discourage you and keep telling how you cannot do it. I speak from experience. If I had listened to people putting me down, my dreams of being who I am today would have remained just that, 'dreams.' Please do not indulge in drugs in this industry since it has been rampant. Stay clean and do not give inn to peer pressure. Above all, never be your own god. Let God be God. Humble yourself before him always.

That is a very touching and encouraging advice. I wish all youths would emulate you. Wishing you the very best in your studies and all your endeavors.

MJ (MUSA JUMA)

           

MJ in a scene on Almasi.

         He is an actor that has featured in the episodes "Almasi" and "Sumu" both on K24 Television. "Almasi" aired every weekday from 7.30pm to 8pm until February this year. The premier was composed of various actors and actress. Currently, "Sumu" is on air every weekday from 7.30pm to 8pm.

What are your official names?
Juma Salim Shibe.

Do you mind talking about your age?
No I do not mind. I am 25yrs?

You have featured in 2 (two) TV shows. What motivated you to do acting?
First, it is an inborn talent, out of the experience from past local soaps I have watched in the recent past and I think I can take this industry into another level.

How the journey to being an actress did began?
It began back in 2007 when I was still in high school.

That is nice. It is truly encouraging to know that you began acting at such a tender age. What are your challenges in the field of acting?
Society. Some people misunderstand my role in the play to real personality.

I feel you. That can be really disturbing. Tell us more about your family.
Frankly, I really thank my family for the passionate support and encouragement they gave me since I ventured in this industry.

Apart from acting, what else do you do for a living?
I am an entrepreneur.

Mambo Madogo Madogo as he is popularly known.

As an entrepreneur, what is your area of specialization or what do you deal with?
I am fashion designer.

This is really interesting. Who is your inspiration since you began acting?
William Levy.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I will be in Hollywood doing productions. If I happen to be still in Kenya, I will be owning my filming company.

Wow, this is really encouraging. What strange thing don’t people know about you?
Apart from acting, I am a singer and I am a God fearing person.

Wow, no one would imagine MJ would be a singer. Have you done any recording to your songs and have you composed an album?
Yes I have recorded 2 (two) songs that I did in collaboration with my younger brother. I have not composed an album.

Have you been approached by media houses intending to recruit you?
I have only seen that happen in Nairobi but not in Mombasa. So far, no media house has approached me.

Why did you pick the names “Almasi” and "Sumu" for the episode?
I think "Almasi" and Sumu" have the best story that suit Kenyans.

Sly, Baraza, MJ and Aaron towards the end of the episode "Almasi."

These have been two amazing love stories. Are you overwhelmed by the feedback you are getting from your fans?
So far, I can say the two programs got a lot of positive feedback and I am happy for the support Kenyans have given us.

We congratulate you for the role you have played in both episodes. If your shoes could talk, what stories would they have to tell?
I know they are proud of me and they would tell Kenyans that if there should be a role model to the youth, then it should be MJ because I don't give up and I always work smart not hard.

I think you should begin mentorship programs in the Coastal region as this could help curb the rising cases on insecurity in the country. Describe your typical day.
I wake up at 5.30am. I pray and do some body fitness practice. I take a shower and prepare to leave for work by 6.45am. My schedule is unpredictable because I can work as late as 10.00pm.

You have always used the phrase "Mambo madogo madogo." What does the phrase mean?
Hahaaa....It simply means nothing is a big deal to me.

MJ, Tinah and Aaron in the episode "Sumu"

Tell us about your social life. What is your marital status like?
It has been a very big secret in regards to my marital status but I believe I will eventually reveal the secret when the right time come.

Are you currently working on any episode or project and what should your fans expect in some days to come
My fans should expect a lot. There are 3 (three) projects from Mombasa that we are currently working on with different companies that will soon air in the local channels. I will also be working with a company in Nairobi and I have a movie collaboration with a star from Tanzania.

This will really make your fans more anxious. How do you spend you free time when not at work?
I read story books, watch movies and I also like going to the beach to swim.

What would you tell the youths back in the village who have a talent in acting but have not made any move?
I will tell them that acting pays if they have the talent. Let them not sit on that talent because a lot of money somewhere is waiting for them to showcase their talent. Actually, talent is livelihood.

We wish you all the best in your career and all your endeavors.

The "Almasi" crew after the successful filming of the episode.