QUICK POLL: SHOULD THE WOJ BECOME A SUBSCRIPTION BASED WEBSITE? (UPDATED)

[Soundjata]

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NEW:

Poll Results are out and can be viewed here


The WOJ will remain FREE. Give thanks for all the rasponses, it has been proven to be really useful for InI working on the back-end of the website.

Nuff Love!

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Thanks for taking some time to answer this poll. This is a question and an invitation to reflect on the nature and the potential of the woj. InI thought that I could learn a great deal with the input from the Is, and I hope this reasoning would lead us to higher heights.

InI at the woj have been quietly working a lot on creating a brand new platform for the woj (surprise launch is scheduled for next month!), with potentially far more features than the current one. However our past 2 years experience has shown us that managing such a large website does require funds and serious time commitment and therefore InI have been thinking about ways to deal with these for the next 2 years to come. In fact, the current woj site has been built without much planning, due to I personal flaws. But for the years to come InI is trying to be more focused and organised regarding the running of this platform.

While we enjoy working for the works, InI believe that by stimulating the Rastafari economy we could allow for much greater works to be accomplished. In this light, InI wanted to reason about the following suggestion: moving the site to a paying platform for this summer's massive relaunch.

Please note that in any case, people who could not afford it would b given free access to the site given their circumstances. In fact InI perfectly overstand that many of InI r struggling.

The subscription based platform would have all the features of the current one, and even more. A few of the new features members will have access to include:

-a Rasta blog irated by paid rasta writers
-a monthly Rasta magazine
-live and recorded video reports of concerts, audio books, etc.

Furthermore if the subscription model was proven to be a success we could potentially offer one ticket to Shashamane everytime we reach an extra 1000 members.

Such a model would allow the woj to do so much for the works, still building on the first steps taken with the woj foundation we would livicate 40% of revenue towards helping the elders, sistrens and youths of the global Rastafari family.

InI is now considering this option, nothing is decided yet, but these are things that needs to be reasoned upon at times. HIM instructed InI to organise, and therefore InI is trying to think ahead and striving to do something far greater than what we might think is possible, or "to be more than we could ever be". The needs are great and the works are plenty. InI will be looking forward for the Is rasponses, it will help us greatly to forecast, plan for the months and the years ahead and reflect on these works.

PLEASE VOTE HERE

and comment if u wish. (suggestions are more than welcomed!)

This post will be opened until wednesday, by then we should have gathered enough feedback to come up wit an informed decision.

Give thanks in advance.

Soundjata

[Screamin Blues]

Ini Don't mind what you do. As long as InI can get access to more knowledge in this site even if its limited
then its up to you.

However InI suggest a donation options in order for the others who are able to pay.

bless and love

[earthskinKL]

blessed love sound jata i guess its all left up to u to decide what u will like to do with the many opinions afloat already bless

[Soundjata]

Good suggestion Sis
I went to see the works of Douglas at an exhibition last month, u know he was the main artist for the Panthers. There works are really inspiring in terms of organisations, and it will b blessed if the Sis or someone is knowledgeable enough to post something abt their story.
Give thanks

[Ras Brandon]

As-salamu-alaikum(peace be upon You).

My brother Soundjata, it is with due concern for the community that you speak,and it is a show of genuine humilty that you ask what you ask.I,as well as the other members benefit tremendously from this site,and it is my opininion that you are not asking much.But really,ones should not be thinking in terms of their own thoughts and if ones are using their free-will in a manner that reflects a desire to align with The All Mighty,and if ones are choosing to accept the superiority of All Knowing in all matters which govern ones existence;and if ones are turning for guidance to one who's emulation and manifestation of the Divine Intellect is also worthy in itself to be emulated as a guide and Light of this Reality,whether that Representative is a Messenger,Prophet,Saint,Savant,or Sage,then the adoption of said Teacher,Guide,Guru,Shaikh,etc. would and should be the criteria for modeling and molding,and the development of the self-government of the devotee,but also the governing of Self.That said,let us turn to the Wordsound of Qedamawi Haile Selassie,as this site is Ras tafari site,and although I myself do not ascribe the label of Ras tafari to myself(Muslim or Sufi would be more adequate),I respect and have spiritual afinity with all of my Kinsman under The All Mighty's Soveriegnity,

DEVELOPMENT

Although the beginnings of civilization of each country vary in time, the fundamental factors which gave impetus to each country to awaken and embark on the road to progress to reach their present level of development, are those qualities which are enshrined in the nature of man, namely desire and fortitude.

The partner who places his own short-range ambitions ahead of the long-range interests of the partnership has embarked on a course which will ultimately result in the dissolution of the partnership itself.

It is by the understanding of past difficulties that we can bequeath fundamental guidance which would be of pride to the coming generations we therefore urge our people to struggle and to make sacrifices for those things which will enable them to ameliorate their conditions of life and leave a richer heritage.

Economic Development

Where enterprise and initiative are not lacking, the pace at which the growth of a country's economy normally proceeds can be quickened or slackened by global developments far or near. In our effort to raise the living Standard of our beloved people, in our endeavour to bring prosperity to our country, the feeling of cooperation and understanding has always characterized our people.

A special case is the recent development in certain provinces where the people are seen voluntarily raising funds to build schools, clinics, roads and similar other projects. What can give one more pleasure than to see such a measure of self-help in one's life time, for the prosperity and progress of his own country? Let every citizen of our empire strive hard to strengthen this espirit de corps everywhere.

We entrust the spirit of good-will to our people to work diligently and cooperatively in order to arrive at the realization of this socioeconomic development that has been launched by either our government or our people. You have a rich land that yields a variety of products, do not be contented with the satisfaction of your bare needs but instead, cultivate your land among others with oleogenous plants, the seeds of which you can export for your greater benefit. Use the forest woods to make furniture and implements and exchange them for money. Your workmanship will be a monument to your name.

One should realize that thriftiness is the basis for the accumulation of wealth and the economic growth of a nation. One seldom minimizes the value of money earned by the sweat of the brow however small it may be, but for the extravagant even a huge amount of money is worthless.

The co-operative movement has long been known throughout the world, and we Ourself have on numerous occasions urged Our people to join increasingly in cooperative enterprises.

Co-operatives must, ultimately, play a highly important role in the growth of our economy, and no time can be lost in availing ourselves of the benefits to be derived from therm During the past year, we decided upon a programme designed to provide specific encouragement to the creation of agricultural co-operatives, and a number of Government-sponsored co-operatives, farms have been established by Our Ministry of National Community Development. We have provided lands, agricultural machinery and expert assistance to these farms and we entertain high hopes that their success will spur Our people to embark increasingly upon co-operative endeavours. Should Our people fail to avail themselves of this opportunity, the consequences will be regrettable indeed.

Community Development

The fundamental purpose of a community development movement is to teach the rural people of Our Empire that through cooperative self-help and a united approach to common problems, the vast potential for their own self-improvement which they themselves represent, can be translated into effective programmes which can do much to improve their standard of living.

Social Development

Lasting progress can only be built on deep and enduring foundations. When a solid foundation is laid, if the mason is able and his materials good, a strong house can be built.

To develop oneself, one has to develop one's own initiative and perseverance - a man has to strive in order to grow. Let us work out our own programmes in all fields - political, economic, social and military. Man's contributions which live to influence the life and progress of posterity, are the most permanent monuments that can ever be created. We must become increasingly willing to analyze our efforts, to experiment, to admit our failures as we take pride in our successes.
(Taken FromDEVELOPMENT

Although the beginnings of civilization of each country vary in time, the fundamental factors which gave impetus to each country to awaken and embark on the road to progress to reach their present level of development, are those qualities which are enshrined in the nature of man, namely desire and fortitude.

The partner who places his own short-range ambitions ahead of the long-range interests of the partnership has embarked on a course which will ultimately result in the dissolution of the partnership itself.

It is by the understanding of past difficulties that we can bequeath fundamental guidance which would be of pride to the coming generations we therefore urge our people to struggle and to make sacrifices for those things which will enable them to ameliorate their conditions of life and leave a richer heritage.

Economic Development

Where enterprise and initiative are not lacking, the pace at which the growth of a country's economy normally proceeds can be quickened or slackened by global developments far or near. In our effort to raise the living Standard of our beloved people, in our endeavour to bring prosperity to our country, the feeling of cooperation and understanding has always characterized our people.

A special case is the recent development in certain provinces where the people are seen voluntarily raising funds to build schools, clinics, roads and similar other projects. What can give one more pleasure than to see such a measure of self-help in one's life time, for the prosperity and progress of his own country? Let every citizen of our empire strive hard to strengthen this espirit de corps everywhere.

We entrust the spirit of good-will to our people to work diligently and cooperatively in order to arrive at the realization of this socioeconomic development that has been launched by either our government or our people. You have a rich land that yields a variety of products, do not be contented with the satisfaction of your bare needs but instead, cultivate your land among others with oleogenous plants, the seeds of which you can export for your greater benefit. Use the forest woods to make furniture and implements and exchange them for money. Your workmanship will be a monument to your name.

One should realize that thriftiness is the basis for the accumulation of wealth and the economic growth of a nation. One seldom minimizes the value of money earned by the sweat of the brow however small it may be, but for the extravagant even a huge amount of money is worthless.

The co-operative movement has long been known throughout the world, and we Ourself have on numerous occasions urged Our people to join increasingly in cooperative enterprises.

Co-operatives must, ultimately, play a highly important role in the growth of our economy, and no time can be lost in availing ourselves of the benefits to be derived from therm During the past year, we decided upon a programme designed to provide specific encouragement to the creation of agricultural co-operatives, and a number of Government-sponsored co-operatives, farms have been established by Our Ministry of National Community Development. We have provided lands, agricultural machinery and expert assistance to these farms and we entertain high hopes that their success will spur Our people to embark increasingly upon co-operative endeavours. Should Our people fail to avail themselves of this opportunity, the consequences will be regrettable indeed.

Community Development

The fundamental purpose of a community development movement is to teach the rural people of Our Empire that through cooperative self-help and a united approach to common problems, the vast potential for their own self-improvement which they themselves represent, can be translated into effective programmes which can do much to improve their standard of living.

Social Development

Lasting progress can only be built on deep and enduring foundations. When a solid foundation is laid, if the mason is able and his materials good, a strong house can be built.

To develop oneself, one has to develop one's own initiative and perseverance - a man has to strive in order to grow. Let us work out our own programmes in all fields - political, economic, social and military. Man's contributions which live to influence the life and progress of posterity, are the most permanent monuments that can ever be created. We must become increasingly willing to analyze our efforts, to experiment, to admit our failures as we take pride in our successes.
(Taken FromDEVELOPMENT

Although the beginnings of civilization of each country vary in time, the fundamental factors which gave impetus to each country to awaken and embark on the road to progress to reach their present level of development, are those qualities which are enshrined in the nature of man, namely desire and fortitude.

The partner who places his own short-range ambitions ahead of the long-range interests of the partnership has embarked on a course which will ultimately result in the dissolution of the partnership itself.

It is by the understanding of past difficulties that we can bequeath fundamental guidance which would be of pride to the coming generations we therefore urge our people to struggle and to make sacrifices for those things which will enable them to ameliorate their conditions of life and leave a richer heritage.

Economic Development

Where enterprise and initiative are not lacking, the pace at which the growth of a country's economy normally proceeds can be quickened or slackened by global developments far or near. In our effort to raise the living Standard of our beloved people, in our endeavour to bring prosperity to our country, the feeling of cooperation and understanding has always characterized our people.

A special case is the recent development in certain provinces where the people are seen voluntarily raising funds to build schools, clinics, roads and similar other projects. What can give one more pleasure than to see such a measure of self-help in one's life time, for the prosperity and progress of his own country? Let every citizen of our empire strive hard to strengthen this espirit de corps everywhere.

We entrust the spirit of good-will to our people to work diligently and cooperatively in order to arrive at the realization of this socioeconomic development that has been launched by either our government or our people. You have a rich land that yields a variety of products, do not be contented with the satisfaction of your bare needs but instead, cultivate your land among others with oleogenous plants, the seeds of which you can export for your greater benefit. Use the forest woods to make furniture and implements and exchange them for money. Your workmanship will be a monument to your name.

One should realize that thriftiness is the basis for the accumulation of wealth and the economic growth of a nation. One seldom minimizes the value of money earned by the sweat of the brow however small it may be, but for the extravagant even a huge amount of money is worthless.

The co-operative movement has long been known throughout the world, and we Ourself have on numerous occasions urged Our people to join increasingly in cooperative enterprises.

Co-operatives must, ultimately, play a highly important role in the growth of our economy, and no time can be lost in availing ourselves of the benefits to be derived from therm During the past year, we decided upon a programme designed to provide specific encouragement to the creation of agricultural co-operatives, and a number of Government-sponsored co-operatives, farms have been established by Our Ministry of National Community Development. We have provided lands, agricultural machinery and expert assistance to these farms and we entertain high hopes that their success will spur Our people to embark increasingly upon co-operative endeavours. Should Our people fail to avail themselves of this opportunity, the consequences will be regrettable indeed.

Community Development

The fundamental purpose of a community development movement is to teach the rural people of Our Empire that through cooperative self-help and a united approach to common problems, the vast potential for their own self-improvement which they themselves represent, can be translated into effective programmes which can do much to improve their standard of living.

Social Development

Lasting progress can only be built on deep and enduring foundations. When a solid foundation is laid, if the mason is able and his materials good, a strong house can be built.

To develop oneself, one has to develop one's own initiative and perseverance - a man has to strive in order to grow. Let us work out our own programmes in all fields - political, economic, social and military. Man's contributions which live to influence the life and progress of posterity, are the most permanent monuments that can ever be created. We must become increasingly willing to analyze our efforts, to experiment, to admit our failures as we take pride in our successes.

Q.H.S.



_Ismail Hanif
A.k.a.Ras Brandon
Tabula Rasa

[Soundjata]

Give thanks Bredren for this timely post,
InI will make sure to study the words of HIM more carefully and consult with the Icients before makin any brisk move.
Bless

[RasKuralka]

Blessings Royal Family,
InI share the same idea on this suggestion as Bredren Ras Andrew...I've seen the problem before: some very good sites need to close down due to financiel problems. If the WOJ is representing a JahJah World, it's still bounded inna Babylon...I agree that paying will work as a start for separating people in an economic way...Many people who struggle need the side as some upliftment, or as a way to stay connected with the outernational movement...especialy those who don't have the money ( As a student InI can not afford it, and besides, InI don't have an international card or something to pay it...seen?).

Think: 'equal right and justice for all!' but a bit more rights for those who can afford it???

The WOJ don't need to see this as an attack, InI think this will be an extremely hard decision to make, but will WOJ still represent Rastafari people, or only a very small, economic powerfull, part of it?
Rastafari has always been a movement that cares for the weak and the humble of the society, not one who cares for the top of it...Internet is being a break-through worldwide, working as a way to share information, which is becoming more and more democratic representing the whole world, even in the 'third world'...this complete ideology of sharing knowledge, each one teach one, will be gone once we start separating people, based on economic power.

Haven't InI bredren said that worldculture is dominated now by a Western-American culture, instead of the original Zion-African culture, and that this is only possible because money makes this unfair power and rules this 'culture'? And if it is this what we charge the West of, doesn't that makes hypocrites out of us by doing the same with I people?
InI wish you all the best and true overstanding in taking dis decision.
InI would like to see I Bredren and Sistren for once equal to one another...
Guidance,

RasKuralka

[Soundjata]

"The WOJ don't need to see this as an attack, InI think this will be an extremely hard decision to make, but will WOJ still represent Rastafari people, or only a very small, economic powerfull, part of it?
Rastafari has always been a movement that cares for the weak and the humble of the society, not one who cares for the top of it.."

Strong points Bredren, I feel the I.. btw we should link up soon regarding the contest (still in the works!)
Give thanks

[Nappy Empress]

InI for one would like to see the site go to a pay format..especially if it means that the site would be used for the betterment of Rastafari Livity and upfull reasonments. I believe that there can be ways that ones and ones who can't afford the fee can be worked out.

[Demeku]

IMHO what has been free, should remain that way. (no ones like the landlord raisin the rent out of the blue) however, if you add new amenities, ones should be charged for them. this site is crucial to ones learning processes (mine especially) and ones who cyannt pay should still have access to this community, even if it limited. (beggers cyannt be choosers)

one more idea...

get sponsors! ask ones fe go out inna dem community and get businesses fe donate. nothin big, perhaps $5 per business?

i was thinkin of printing out some type of flyers fe dis site to place in all the ras business here to draw members to the new orleans group. if i cyann get shop owners fe place flyers inna dem shop, i know dem will grow curious and check it out.....

just somethin i was thinkin bout. of course i would never print materials promoting soundjata brainchild without soundjata permission, so what you think about that?

[Soundjata]

Sis Demeku,
Give thanks for the suggestion. Feel free to print woj material as u wish, also I do have a few A5 flyers graphics that i can forward to the Sis for promotion purposes. Spreadin the word is a must! Ill make sure to message the Sis wit more details as soon as possible.
bleSs!

[Sister Lily Mihirete Amlak]

Greetings brother Sondjata, as a host of another ning site, I can say that it is easier for InI to let the ads on the site, I myself and other members dont take notice of it. Still, the works manifest, ones and ones keep communicating, the reasoning is flowing, there are nearly 3000 members now, and for I, financially is not a struggle.
I know that not having the ads would be the best way, but when it is not posible to pay, then, it does not matter to I, as InI mentioned already, the works are manifesting.
I know the I is a student, and it is not good if the I is not having enough to eat, when the I can run this site for free, so the I can eat better (smile) and be more relaxed about the works. The financial aspect of the site really can be stressful, plus dealing with all the tension and divisions that manifest on the site.
in I humble opinion, lets take advantage of what can be for 'free', o apparently 'free'
Blessings to the I, hope the I continue doing well on the I studies.
please, take care of the Iself
Jah Rastafari love

[Soundjata]

Sis Lily
Give thanks for the support everytime. The reason why I do not want to keep ads on the site are mainly to i belief (maybe wrongly founded) that ads do 'pollute' the page in some ways, and for a Rasta livity internet place I can only strive to keep it pure. However, the plan is to move away from the ning platform, for various reasons especially due to the company's behaviour lately. Still i should take the advise of the Sis and enable the ads on this site when it will only b an archive for the new one.
Be well Sis, we should link up soon
Much love