'Lose your mental virginity' is the advice coming from co-author of Diary of the Seven Virgins Lloyd Richards who is one of The Seven Masterminds behind this life-changing book. Richards, a Jamaican residing in Canada, was in Jamaica for one weekend and wants to reach the nation with this powerful tool for self-transformation and development.

The Seven Masterminds was created in 2003 from a shared common business interest of all the partners. Through growing and sharing their life's experiences they've been journeying around the globe to empower people that there is more to life than merely existing. In 2009, the vision for Diary of the Seven Virgins was seen and that vision is now a reality three years later.

business opportunity

"We came together as a result of a business opportunity and very quickly realised we needed to build ourselves before building the pay cheque. We were focused on reading, attending seminars, listening to CDs, watching DVDs, and any other opportunity to empower ourselves and grow. Over time, it evolved into a birthday book club; we meet seven times annually to celebrate each other's birthday by giving books as a gift and conducting seven different book reviews," Richards said.

The Seven Masterminds also include Angelita Barnswell, Curline Bennett, Lane Grossett, Maurice Burnside, Amatus Forsac and Peter James. The book speaks of their journey into awareness, changing their substandard lives and by illuminating their minds thus changing the course of their existence. All Seven Masterminds now lead distinguished, successful, holistic lives in their careers and family, and take readers on the paths to do the same.

Richards, who grew up in Spanish Town, attended St Catherine and St Jago high schools, and is now a systems analyst working in the information technology (IT) field. He is also currently vice-president of operations for an IT firm in Toronto, Canada. Initially, he wanted to pursue a career as a bookkeeper until he emigrated to Toronto, Canada, at the age of 27.

blessing to others

"We felt we have learned a lot from the many great writers and can be a blessing to others by sharing some of what we have learned. There is a need for us to give back and be an example that anyone can relate to," Richards said.

The Toronto book launch will be held on November 17. It will include a book signing, readings, appearances from recognised author(s) and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the diary. "Our goal in coming to Jamaica was to use this tool to empower our people and to bring about real-life positive transformation. Regardless of your age, it's never too late to learn," he said.

- KH

Diary of the Seven Virgins can be bought locally through Sangster's Books Stores or online at The Seven Masterminds' website :http://www.diaryofthesevenvirgins.com/Default.aspx.