C'est Moi Magazine Issue One

FASHION BEAUTY MUSIC CULTURE

INSIDE THIS

ISSUE

ISSUE 1

4 THE CONTRIBUTORS 5 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF BEAUTY

6 EDITOR-IN-CHIEFS’ FAVORITES 7 BEAUTY BUZZ 8 BEAUTY 101.

HOW TO EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN FASHION

10 STREET STYLE REPORT: PARIS

11 TOMBOY CHIC 15 INSIDE THE MODEL: MORGAN

20 SUMMER ACCESSORIES 21 FLOWERS OF INNOCENCE 25 CHINA TOWN 31 STREET STYLE REPORT: LONDON

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INSIDE THIS

ISSUE

ISSUE 1

32 STREET STYLE REPORT: STOCKHOLM ART

33 COMIC ARTIST: ISRAEL AGALABA MUSIC

39 R&B SENSATION: MELO CULTURE INSIDE AFRICA:

Next submission deadline: July 27, 2014

43 YEAMA 53 LIF

COVER Photography: Misa Photography Makeup/Hair/Wardrobe: Scholastic Makeup Model: Morgan Hennum (Click Model Management)

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MOI

C’est moi: It is me. It is you. It is us.

CONTRIBUTORS Scholastic Makeup Misa Photography Sam J Photography Darius Voncel Marshall Photography Ezinne Eneh Mamasoe Aruna Runaworks Studio

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of C’est Moi Magazine. The views expressed in C’est Moi Magazine are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. All information contained in the magazine is for information only and is as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going into press. C’est Moi Magazine cannot accept responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufactures and retailers directly with regard to the price of products and/or services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant C’est Moi Magazine a license to publish your submission in whole, or in part, in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material submitted will be at the submitters’ risk. Although every care is taken, neither C’est Moi Magazine nor its employees, agents, or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.

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Letter from the Editor-in-chief: We are moving in the right direction. Even with our freshness to the scene, we are unleashing another inviting way to look into the love of fashion, music, beauty, and culture. We thank those around us who have made this dream come alive and with their continuous assistance, we will always strive to keep you entertained and hopefully push the boundaries of what is considered the norm. With our collaborations, we embrace the creative aspects of each individual whether they are in words or in pictures.

We come in full force with the feel of a warmer and brighter season, which we will say, turns up the heat of being different, imaginative, and daring. With the warmer months coming our way, new trends in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle is upon us. Pastels, colours, colours, and pastels. Your insights and opinions are greatly valued, and will help us grow to be better and provide you with what you are looking for. C’est Moi. It is me, it is you, it is us. Come in and celebrate the art of growth.

Editor-in-chief

Editor-in-chief Cynthia Agalaba

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BEAUTY C’EST MOI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S FAVORITES Juicy Couture

Lorac Pro Palette Elf Bronzing Powder in Warm Tan

Nars Edge Pink Collection

Milani Lip Intense Makeup Forever HD Foundation

Wet-N-Wild MegaLast Lipsticks Givency

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BEAUTY BUZZ SUMMER TIP: HOW TO KEEP YOUR SKIN HYDRATED How to keep your makeup looking fresh during the warmer days: Trick 1: Spray Mac Fit+ (can also spray water or any other kind of refresher spray). Please make sure you do not drown your face or it will defeat the purpose. Then use your powder brush to pat down the areas. If you still have left over powder on your brush, it is ok but as long as you do not reapply with more powder.

Trick 2: Pat down with baby wipes gently (do not rub). If needed, pat down wet areas with powder brush. If there is still some left over powder on your powder brush, it is ok but as long as you do not reapply with more powder.

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BEAUTY C’EST MOI

BEAUTY 101.

HOW TO EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN

EXFOLIATION is key to the soul? LOL. Maybe not that far but maybe it is the key to the removal of dead skin cells.

If you have ever noticed your skin looking blotchy or dry, it might be due to alot of dry skin cells that are piling and holding on to your skin, in result does not allow your skin to breath. Or it might be due to you not drinking the recommended glasses of water to help flush out your system. Exfoliation is also important for men as it exposes the hair follicles to allow a better shave. The history of exfoliation can be accredited to the ancient Egyptians. The Egyptians were not all about building pyramids and killing the Israelites, but they were all about beauty and finding the fountain of youth. In Latin, efoliare means the removal or striping of the leaves.

FACE: Cetaphil is a skin cleanser that is good for all skin types. This brand favours all skins types: dry, oily, and combination. Cetaphil can be found at your local drug store or grocery store. Adding baking soda as an extra kick can also help to dig in there and help remove dry and dead skin cells which will be holding on to dear life. This is especially good for females or males that wear makeup. This is also good for men as an after shave procedure. This process really helps to get in there to remove everything. You will be amazed of how much dirt is still on your face even after using a facial cleanser. Baking soda is an age old beauty secret. It is also easily found in most households and does not cost more than $3. Rather than spread $1000 to get facial peels (which some have found also dries your skin), just use an inexpensive product that can do the job just as good. It helps to bring out the

softness of the skin, allows it to appear more youthful, and brings out the lost luster of the skin. Once this is complete, I make sure to moisturize my face. This helps in maintaining the youthful glow.

Extreme dry skin speeds up the aging process.

BODY: Yes, you read it right. Exfoliation also extends to the body. Our favourite to use wouod be Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body wash. We love this stuff. It smells extremely good and helps to watch off dead skin cells on the body.

As well it helps to leave the skin feeling “baby skin” soft.

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PARIS FASHION WEEK: SPRING/SUMMER 2014

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TOMBOY CHIC Photography: Samantha J Photography Model: Cynthia Agalaba Makeup/Hair stylist: Scholastic Makeup Wardrode provided by Scholastic Makeup

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Jacket: Karen MillerNY Leather Pants: H&M Jewelry: Vintage Face: Makeup Forever HD foundation Eyes: Makeup Forever Orange Crush Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink

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Jacket: Karen MillerNY Leather Pants: H&M Jewelry: Vintage Face: Makeup Forever HD foundation Eyes: Makeup Forever Orange Crush Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink

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Sequin Jacket: H&M Tights: H&M Face: Makeup Forever HD Foundation Ben Nye Lips: Wet-N-Wild Bare It All

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FASHION C’EST MOI Dress: Stenay Accessories: Model’s own Face: Makeup Forever HD Ben Nye Powder Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink Wet-N-Wild Bare It All

INSIDE THE MODEL Photography: Misa Photography Makeup/Hair/Wardrode: Scholastic Makeup Model: Morgan Hennum (Click Model Management)

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A sparkling young personality with a completely transitional look, Morgan graces the cover of our first issue. C’est Moi goes “Inside The Model” with Morgan Hennum.

How long have you been modeling?

I started doing kids modeling at age 8 and them moved into ladies when I got too tall for kids.

Tell us what began your journey into the world of being a model? Who are your inspirations? Who are your role models?

I actually started acting at age 8 and my agent sent to some kid modeling stuff and as I got to talk for acting as most kids were so much shorter my agent said maybe you should stick to the modeling lol ! I love Cara Delavagne and Sasha Luss and of course Kate Moss. I have photos of them all over my bedroom walls.

Apart from begin a model, what are your other passions?

I love to shop haha!

What do you do to prepare for a shoot or for a casting?

Basically we just get a mood board and I study it.

What advice would you give to others wanting to be a model?

Well if you are young like me have parents that support you and are ok with spending lots of money and not asking people to help find you as it is not cheap to travel and stuff.

Also if it is not YOUR passion then it might not work for you as you have to give up so much like parties and stuff.

How would you describe your personality? How would you define yourself in one word?

Well I think I am outgoing and pretty much everyone that works with me says I am very professional. One word..... Original You had a complete hair change. Would you say it has helped open many doors? If so, how and what has changed?

I think it helped cause all of a sudden everyone wanted to shoot me and it just boosted my confidence and I think that showed in my photos.

As a model, is there anything you would change or is there anything you regret?

What are your biggest challenges?

I can't think of anything I would want to change or regret. Biggest challenge is making real friends and not ones who just want to hang with me cause I model or cause they think I can help them.

What would you say is your most memorable opportunity(s) to date?

I have had so many great ones...awesome photographers and makeup and hair and stylists that I can't say just one!

What current fashion trends do you follow?

What fashion trends would you say are here to stay?

I just wear what I line not what everyone else thinks is cool! Trends might be jeans and a simple tank...can't go wrong!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully traveling the world doing what I love.

“……if it is not YOUR passion then it might not wok for you as you have to give up so much like parties and stuff.”

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Dress: Francesca of Damon for Starington Accessories: Vintage Face: Makeup Forever HD Ben Nye Powder Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink

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SUMMER ACCESSORIES

Fairyland Bow Necklace Betsy Johnson

Knuckle Rings On-board black Sunglasses

Chanel Ellis Saab

Giuseppe Zanotti Sequin Embellished Tstrap Sandals

Silver/Yellow Strand Necklace

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FLOWERS of

INNOCENCE Photographer: Darius Voncel Marshall Makeup & Hair: Barbara Blair Stylist: Erica Dias Model: Morgan Hennum (Click Model Management)

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CHINATOWN Photography: Misa Photography Makeup/Hair/Wardrobe: Scholastic Makeup Model: Morgan Hennum (Click Model Management)

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Dress: Vintage Belt: Old Navy Accessories: Vintage Face: Makeup Forever HD Face Atelier Ben Nye Powder Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink

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FASHION C’EST MOI Shirt: Francesca of Damon for Starington Skirt: Old Navy Accessories: Vintage Face: Face Atelier Makeup Forever HD Lips: Wet-N-Wild Dollhouse Pink Makeuo Forever Concealer

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Dress: BCBG Face: Face Atelier Makeup Forever HD Lips; Wet-n-Wild Dollhouse Pink Makeup Forever HD concealer

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LONDON FASHION WEEK: SPRING/SUMMER 2014

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STOCKHOLM

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ART C’EST MOI

Born to an African father and American mother, his love of abstract, comic art started at a very early age. We know him as a comic artist but he is also a graphic design, using his knowledge of photo manipulation into his work. C’est Moi Magazine travels into the mind of Israel Agalaba.

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“I often go back to a sketch pad to jot down a few ideas I have for a new project and sketch it out on paper and then scan them into my PC.� an artist, what are your other passions?

I also like dancing, singing and rapping, and just making music in general haha.

When did you begin your journey in art?

I began this journey at the age of nine back in Nigeria.

What inspired you to become an artist?

I was inspired to become an artist after reading a couple comics that my uncle gave to me as a present for being good (lol). They were Xmen comics illustrated by Jim Lee who is one of my favorite artists.

How did your passion come about? Who are

your inspirations?

I was in class one day and I remember the teacher was telling us about the Renaissance masters and then she said "ART IS FUN". I guess I started drawing after that as a way to express my feelings and have fun, it seemed really cool and amazing. Jim Lee, Stan Lee, Bruce Timm, Mike Mignola, Morbius to name a few inspired me as an artist. Their work never gets old to me.

Apart from being an

Are you self-taught or did you go to school for art?

And if you could give an inspiring and motivational message to others wanting to be artists, what would you say?

I was self taught, but I did get some tips from fellow artists and critics. For anyone out there wanting to be an artist, draw and/or paint what you like. Have fun with it but do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

Describe your personality in a nutshell? Does your personality inspire your artwork? (Cont. page 36) C’est Moi Magazine

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I like to believe that I’m creative, calm and not afraid to try different things and I believe it shows in my artwork.

In your opinion, what has been your greatest accomplishment to date?

My greatest accomplishment would have to be when I came in second place during an art competition on a website called Deviant Art. I did not win but I got some recognition in being second.

In a few words describe your artwork?

Comic, Digital, Creative, Unique.

Through your journey as an artist, is there anything you would change or is there anything you reject?

I wouldn't change anything. If I did, I wouldn't be the Artist/man that I am today. So I thank my lucky stars for everything that's happened during my journey.

"ART

IS FUN". I guess I started drawing after that as a way to express my feelings……..”

I can be found at this website called Deviantart. Can find under isreal8nc (ISRAEL) on deviantART

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Not really sure, hopefully doing what I love best, which is making art.

Where can we find you?

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MUSIC C’EST MOI

ME ME LO

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R&B Sensation “Melo”, has worked behind the scenes for some of today’s hottest artists as a singer/songwriter, dancer, and choreographer for many years. Melo describes his music as “a sensual realistic approach to everyday experiences in the journey we know as love”. Melo blends the smooth warmth of his vocals with an edgy raw approach in lyrics that appeals to both sides in a relationship. His musicality has assured him to have a promising effect in the R&B world.

Born Melvin Parker on January 21, 1987 in Chicago, IL, Melo got his first taste of performing at the tender age of 5 years old at a Christmas party. A young Melo walked over to the piano and began to play Beethoven’s “Fur Elise” by ear as his family watched on in shock and amazement. He spent the next 8 years developing his Godgiven talent by singing in church choir and taking vocal/piano lessons. At the age of 13, he wrote his first song called “Gotta bounce” which gave him the first taste of his writing creativity. After leaving Chicago at the age of 15 and relocating to Phoenix Arizona for a few years, Melo ultimately moved to Atlanta, Ga which proved to be the best musical career move for it opened up the opportunities to showcase his talents.

Melo notes his musical inspirations range from legends such as Luther Vandross and Al Green. He is also inspired by the creative talents in the likes of Tank, Jamie Foxx, Joe, Avant, The Dream, and Usher. Melo has been quoted saying, “I fell in love with R&B when it meant something…I believe we as R&B singers have to get back to the timeless music that Boyz II Men and Jodeci used to make. I want to give that feel of music back to the people but in a raw updated form”.

“I fell in love with R&B when it meant something…”

His love of music also stems from his love of jazz and classical pianist, Phillip Wesley.

C’est Moi Magazine had the chance to speak with Melo.

When did you begin your journey as a singer/songwriter?

My journey as a singer/songwriter really began at the age of 12 when I wrote my first song. I remember the feeling of being in my room and being bored and having so many thoughts and emotions that were easily explained as I wrote them down on a piece of paper. That feeling at the tender age of 12 really is when it started.

What inspired you singer/songwriter?

to

become

a

I hated that the art of story and that the journey through love started to become watered down. Somebody had to step out and bring it back to its original foundation when Boyz II men would take you on an emotional journey.

At what point did you realize your gifts were not just a hobby?

I think that becomes a reality when you get your first check!!!

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How did your passion come about? Who are your inspirations?

I can remember being in the studio with super producer Warren “Oak” Felder and I used to watch people like singer Mario, RL from the group “Next”, “ D Woods from Danity Kane” and Letoya Luckett just to name a few would come into the studio and record and it would motivate and actually frustrate me at the same time. At that time, I wasn’t very good at recording or knew the fundamentals of putting a song together in the studio but one day, one half of the super producers “Tha Corna Boyz” named Pierre told me something I’ve always remembered. He said, “Use all your talents to express what you feel and don’t just limit yourself to one area. If you can dance, dance!

If you can write, write…”. Musically, I’m inspired by people like Tank, Usher, Joe, Avant, Chris Brown and of course legends like Al Green, Marvin Gaye and Boyz II Men. Apart from being an artist, what are your other passions?

I love volunteering my time to the youth. Did you realize that most crimes by teenager’s ages 12-17 years old happen between the hours of 230pm-730pm? And that study revealed that its simply because “kids are bored”…Think about it?? That being said, I believe one of the greatest gifts you can give to someone is your time.

How you would describe your style?

I’m from Chicago IL and believe it or not, my favorite time of the year is actually the winter because the fashion during that time is off the chain. You’re going to find me always in my boots and I love working out so something that shows my physique is the key for me.

What genre would you say you portray?

My R&B sound is a sensual approach to realistic situations we all face after the initial attraction phase fades away that we all experience in this wonderful journey we like to call love.

Are you self-taught or did you go to school for music? And if you could give an inspiring and motivational message to others wanting to be singers/songwriters, what would you say?

I am self-taught but I can say that I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by some of today’s greatest. I think the key for any upcoming new songwriter who wants to get into the business has to remember to be different. Write from a real place because people connect through real situations. Be true to your craft and don’t be afraid to be yourself.

As a song writer/singer, what kind of music do you listen to? Where do you look for inspiration?

I love all music. Gospel, R&B, pop, country, hip hop, jazz, classical…

We also know you are a dancer, how are you able to combine your dancing abilities as a songwriter/singer?

Being able to work on movie sets as a dancer has made me a better songwriter because its allowed me to see and experience a different side of women and not in a negative way. We as songwriters write from experience so the more you experience, the more you can write about and combining dancing and touring as definitely given me plenty to share in those experiences.

In a few words describe your music?

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Do you play any instruments? What instruments do you play?

Yes, I play piano…

How would you describe your personality?

Would you say your personality inspires your work?

I’m a lover…I can be analytical at times but very “Mellow” about most things hence the name “Melo”. The analytical part of me is that little voice that says, “Tell the story this way”, Which is where I get the motivation to not tell you the incident but tell the experience in the incident with her.

What would you say would be your accomplishment(s) to date?

Being able to work as a writer with artists like “Marsha Ambrosius” and “Sterling Simms”. Being able to help create songs for people like J Holiday and Cherish. As a dancer to be able to perform with Faith Evans and share the stage with R.Kelly are some of my favorable accomplishments to this date.

“Tell the story this way” Making great music for all my fans.

Giving them stories to relate to and creating pictures and memories that are timeless.

Where can we find you? And what can we except to see from you in the coming months?

You can follow me online through Twitter and IG @Melomuzic. And far as upcoming projects, I’m finishing up my debut album and I’m currently working on projects with Ty Dollar $ign & Boosie album. I’m also working with some new up & coming artist such as Tyreke Thompson and Selena Gabrielle who are some the most talented teens I’ve worked with in a very long time.

Through your journey as an artist, is there anything you would change or is there anything you regret?

I’m a firm believer that God’s timing is perfect. I have many regrets and situations that I would’ve preferred to not experienced but I believe all the ups & downs of the behind the scenes of the music business people don’t get to see has made me a better business man.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

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Mastermind behind Yeama: Mamasoe Aruna Photographer: Runaworks Studios

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What inspired you to become a designer?

As a teenager I realized that was one thing I was good at. It took me a while to realize it was a talent I had even though I grew up around my mother sewing. lol! I just assumed that was a skill everywoman needed to learn to be a wife. My mother is really the inspiration. I always admired her and how she maintained her teaching career along with her sewing business. She is awesome! she was a school principle for many years and I remember her making the uniform for the whole entire school which had to be at least like 2,000 students. I have always wanted to be like her.

What is your nationality? In what way does your nationality influence your designs?

I was born in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Having the opportunity to live in Sierra Leone for thirteen years before I moved to the states, it gave me the chance to experience my culture. Having said that, using prints in my designs, especially African prints, allows the designs to be unique in many ways.

C’est Moi Magazine speaks to the mastermind behind YEAMA. When did you being your journey in design?

I want to say officially after I graduated from design school in 2012 but seriously had been pursuing it since 2009 when I initially started design school.

How did your passion come about?

Who are your inspirations?

My passion really came about once I understand and accepted that I was a designer, which was about my second (Continues on page 46)

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year in design school. I realized that it had been part of me all this while and did not know it. I realized that this was something I could not only show others what am capable of or make a living out of it but most of all potentially use it to touch the lives of others that are less fortunate.

Apart from being a designer, what are your other passions?

I love children and I would love to someday see a tie between my two passions fashion and working with children. Hopefully opportunities and of course the almighty God will allow me to do that.

Are you self-taught or did you go to school for design? And if you could give an inspiring and motivational message to others wanting to be designers, what would you say?

I would like to say I am self-taught because even though I learned by watching my mother she never really sat me down and showed me how it was done. I just paid good attention and practiced on my baby dolls. However, I also went to design school to refine my craft once I realized it could become something great. The inspirational advice I would give other inspiring designers would be pursue it as soon as possible if its something you are really passionate about and don’t be afraid to do what sets you apart.

Describe your personality in a nutshell?

I describe myself as fun, kind hearted, funny, hardworking, shy at times, friendly, spontaneous, risk taker, talented, creative, and ambitious among many other great characteristics. I enjoy great relationships with people and spending time with the people I love especially my family.

What would you say is your most memorable opportunity(s)? In your opinion, what has been your greatest accomplishment to date?

My greatest accomplishment so far is having the courage to pursue my talent, and trying out for TV shows even though I am a very shy person

and don’t really like to be the center of attention.

How did your name for your brand come about?

The name YEAMA is actually my middle name and it means the second daughter in my native language mende. I kind of wanted the brand to be a separate entity from myself if that makes any sense at all. Everyone knows me as Mamasoe but not to many people even know that is my name and I like it that way so I can separate the two.

What are the fashion trends you are seeing?

Lots and lots of nothing but prints. Print and patterns is the future of fashion. I think our world is crazy and it’s getting crazier and crazier so it just makes sense to see of lot of prints and patterns because it reflects our world. It’s messy, chaotic, and it is not in a particular order.

You have submitted your work to Project Runway. What has submitting your work to Project Runway taught you about yourself?

Submitting my work to Project Runway has taught me to be a strong person. It has taught me that when you embrace who you are and what you stand for it does not matter what others may think about your or your creations.

At the end of the day not everyone will see what you see and it is ok.

(Continues on page 49 )

“…...I am self-taught because even though I learned by watching my mother she never really sat me down and showed me how it was done.”

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I learned that being unique and different is not about popularity but about being comfortable with whom God has created you to be. And once you accept and realize that it makes life a lot less stressful because then you live for yourself and not others.

Through your journey, is there anything you would change or is there anything you reject?

Not so much regret but probably pursue the fashion career early than I have, putting my whole life into it and realizing at an earlier age that I would be in business because as a young child I never imagined myself to be an entrepreneur.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years I would like the Yeama brand to be doing various fashion weeks showing the collections. Multiple magazine shoots and spreads.

Items available at various stores, online store and hopefully a brick and mortar store as well. Also bragging about who wore my design on the red carpet.

Where can we find you?

Facebook.com/yeama Intagram: yeamabymamasoe Website: yeamabymamasoe.com Twitter: Yeamabymamasoe Email: Yeamabymamasoe@gmail.com

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Photographer: Runaworks Studio Designer: Yeama Makeup artist: Ebonee Tabb Model: De’Andrea Johnson

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Photographer: Theresa Nyahn Designer: Yeama Makeup artist: Theresa Nyahn Model: China Burlison

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CULTURE C’EST MOI

Photography: Runaworks Studios// Model: Cynthia Agalaba// Makeup and Wardrobe: Scholastic Makeup Instagram @ thelegacyinternational; Twitter @thelegacyintl

On June 20, 1992, I was born in Lagos, Africa’s biggest metropolis city, which was a year after Abuja officially replaced Lagos as the capital city of Nigeria. My memories of Lagos are vague as I moved with my family to Abuja seven years later. Lagos was an overpopulated, beautiful city filled with surprisingly happy people. Nigeria is a country where extremes on a spectrum can be present. Simultaneously, Nigeria has been coined the 5th most unlivable places in the world yet Nigerians have also been recognized as the happiest people on Earth. I can agree with both because I remember nights in Lagos when we would not have electricity but I had the best times. I loved to feel the cool breeze from the Atlantic ocean, come through the balcony doors as I laid on my father’s chest while listening to stories of the Biafra war, that I always wanted to hear more about. Back then reading was my hobby because I loved storytelling and the ways different stories unfolded, so hearing my father’s own stories about a civil war I wasn’t taught in school was more than exciting to me.

My parents began work on giving back to the community as soon as they began plans to move to Abuja in the 90s.

Since then they have been able to fund the tuition of approximately 24 orphans through their private foundation. Every year, around Christmas time, my parents would host a Christmas party for the widows in my hometown in Enugu, Nigeria. The times I was able to witness these events, I really enjoyed the firsthand experience of seeing the change one family can make. Since then I wanted to follow the footsteps of my parents and began my own nonprofit foundation to invoke social change. Through this project, I hope to inspire other young Nigerians to catalyze social change with whatever talent or platform they may have. It is my hope by launching this organization I will be able to expand the work that my parents have already begun.

On June 20, 2014, I launched my Nonprofit organization with a fashion showcase titled The Legacy featuring several amazing designers including; Designs by Habibah Waziri, Ben’s Designs by Ben Almonor, Fashenelle by Shenelle Evans, LegitFye by Junior Adeoti, Threaded Culture by Jevwe Mukoro, and Yeama by Mamasoe Aruna.

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“…..to bring light and hope to many whom are underprivileged and underrepresented.”

Photographer: dDivine Photography// CEO and Founder behind LIF: Ezinne Eneh

The show was dedicated to the #BringBackOurGirls, a campaign that was catalyzed through social media, to help support the movement and to continue to shed light on the plight of approximately 234 unfortunate girls abducted from a secondary boarding school in Northern Nigeria. My current project is a blatant statement that Nigerians will not give into terror.

The mission of my nonprofit organization is to promote the advancement and empowerment of Africans in Africa and the diaspora. Especially, to bring light and hope to many whom are underprivileged and underrepresented. When I began this project, I first had to decide who my target population would be. In the past, the philanthropic work my parents had engaged in were focused on the Eastern part of 54 C’est Moi Magazine

Nigeria. Whenever I am asked where I am from, I always asked exactly what they meant due to my inability to properly identify my origins. I am Igbo, but I was born in Lagos, which is considered Yoruba land, and I then lived in Abuja, which is considered Hausa land, for a long time. In a sense, I consider myself from the North since my home base is in Abuja. With that in mind, I decided to focus my attention on the Northern part of Nigeria. As well, due to the recent terroristic attacks that have been plaguing the north, assisted me in making my decision. Before I began my research I was naïve in thinking that public education was inexpensive and money could easily be fundraised. After doing my research, I found I was very extremely wrong. I discovered orphans could attend school for free but only through the government poorly equipped public schools. With this information it made sense to focus on providing supplemental education to these orphanages such as after school programs three times a week where teachers would be able to provide supplemental instructions with essential workshops based on the students’ grade level and exams. I also found that one of the urgent needs of all the orphanages is being able to afford certain examinations taken during secondary school that are needed to advance to post-secondary education in Nigeria. One of these tests is called the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) test (you can find

CULTURE C’EST MOI

Photography: Jeremy P.L. Makeup: Cece Tor Model: Ezinne Eneh Accessories: Ciao Bello by Ama Amoako

more information about this test on www.jamb.org.ng). The other test is called The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) administered by The West African Examinations Council (you can find more information on this test on the testers official website at http://www.waecnigeria.org).

These two tests are essential for students to continue their educate so it is imperative that we provide funding for those who do not have the means to take these tests. The JAMB test costs approximately $40 while the WASSCE test costs approximately $80. To us these costs will be considered not overly expensive but will do have to remember these are orphans.

Other urgent and inexpensive needs include toiletries, food items, drugs, clothes, toys, and bottled water. A representative visited several orphanages, one of them was Mother Theresa Orphanage located in Gwarinpa, Abuja (you can find more information about this orphanage at http://www.mothertheresaorphanage.org).

One of the urgent needs from one

“…..to bring light and hope to many whom are underprivileged and underrepresented.” particular orphanage, is to expand the accommodation facilities because the facility they currently have is becoming overcrowded due to admitting more orphans. The orphanage has the space in their compound to build on but needs the funds to expand the current facility, which will cost approximately 6 million naira ($36,607). It may be more cost effective to work on building an entirely new dormitory (the cost is still to been determined). The accommodation portion of the project has yet to be finalized, but I would like to go forward with what would be most cost effective in the most ethically responsible way. A 3D image of a proposed plan for a dormitory for any of the orphanages drawn by an employee of C’est Moi Magazine 55

effective in the most ethically responsible way.

Below is a 3D image of a proposed plan for a dormitory for any of the orphanages drawn by an employee of The Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in Abuja, Nigeria. In a system where there is no such thing as social security, philanthropy is needed and crucial. I grew up in an environment where in seconds you could go from being in the most decked out estate (not a house) you have ever seen and literally outside that compound are very poor people. In 2006, UNICEF quoted approximately 90 percent of the Nigerian population as living on less than two dollars a day. It was an environment where I was always humbled and grateful because I knew there was nothing that made me better, I just happened to be born in a family where all my needs were met. The economic disparity in Nigeria is enormous because our country houses the poorest of the poorest in the world yet houses the world’s second highest paid senators. There are a plethora of alarming facts related to social issues in Nigeria and we can all go and on, but I am here about being part of the solution. Nigeria is a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes, from the jaw dropping mountainous 56 C’est Moi Magazine

terrain in Abuja to the peaceful beaches in Lagos. Nigeria is blessed with vast natural resources yet the resources are mismanaged.

Nigeria has produced very talented and intelligent people. Nigerians account for the most educated population in America. Don’t quote me but I am sure this statistic holds true in other nations. It is more than apparent that there is an enormous brain drain going on in Nigeria. The brain drain of nowadays as related to Nigeria is unique. Traditionally brain drain is “the emigration of the highly trained or intelligent people of a county”. Nigerians may emigrate solely for education in a foreign country but then end up emigrating permanently. There are so many different reasons why this brain drain occurs; such as a new sense of security, reliable infrastructure and a thriving economy in the foreign counrty. A lot of Nigerians abroad feel as though they cannot do anything to make a difference in Nigeria and I strongly disagree with this sentiment.

Perpetuating the idea that the situation in Nigeria is unsalvageable will only lead to the brain drain to worsen. Not to sound cliché, but every little bit of philanthropy counts and assuming every single Nigerian who had the platform to make a difference actually did so, Nigeria would really be a better place.

Next Submission Deadline July 27, 2014