DTNOW AUG, 08 2023

Content EDITOR'S LETTER

The Special Tenth Issue; A Reintroduction

It's not an easy feat if you're familiar with the media and publishing space, especially when we're intentional about putting out the best possible content, styling, and everything else that comes with a creative shoot in tow.

Olamide Olarewaju EDITOR

OHello and welcome. It’s our 10th issue! ur tenth edition reminds me of how far we've come in such a short time since our first edition went live in April.

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FASHION

A Corporate Lookbook Cheat Code For A Minimalist Gentleman

Looking good and dressing well have nothing to do with spending a fortune and everything to do with having the right colour and style in your wardrobe. The goal of this article is to provide you with the key items you should have in your wardrobe...

CHATROOM

Minika Art on Chronicling African Cultures

SCRUMPTIOUS

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COOKBOOK: Korean Fried Chicken

PUBLISHER Rita Dominic

EDITOR

Olamide Olarewaju

WRITER

Danielle Anene

PAGE PLANNER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER King Remus

SOCIAL MEDIA

Faith Okenwa

CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Ikunna Onwuanibe

Dr. Blossom Maduafokwa

Dr. Uzoamaka Iloabachie

WakaWaka Dr.

"Dtnow first published in 2017 is the lifestyle anchor for the Dailytimes Nigeria, Nigeria's oldest surviving newsmedia platform. Published since 1926, we stepped back ideated and have developed a companion that will serve your lifestyle needs like no other...thats a promise." dtnowdigital www.dtnow.ng

If you're familiar with the media and publishing space, you'll know that it's not an easy feat, especially when it comes to putting out the best possible content, styling, and everything else that comes with a creative shoot.

So we're raising a glass to the rest of the power team, including energy gods Danielle Anene and Faith Okenwa, Oludemilade Aremu, and Mr Silas Ntinuokwu! Our publisher deserves special mention for breaking her back for us; thank you, Rita Dominic-Anosike.

This also goes to our stylist Diipo AyoAdeusi and his team at Light In The Market Place, makeup partners Zaron Cosmetics, Kate Okpo our resident beauty expert, Humprey Ominisan, Chinedu Adiele, Henry Ozoigbo, and others.

Thank you to our chairman FA, who makes this possible and looks out for us in every way.

Thank you for staying with us. Read, enjoy and share!

See you in the next one.

Elemdee

A CORPORATE LOOKBOOK CHEAT CODE FOR A MINIMALIST GENTLEMAN

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Looking good and dressing well has nothing to do with spending a fortune and everything to do with having the right colour and style in your wardrobe. The goal of this article is to provide you with the key items you should have in your wardrobe in order to achieve a minimalist yet sophisticated look for work and formal occasions.

A well-curated wardrobe is essential because it instantly conveys a lasting impression to the rest of the world. If you're a fashion-forward man or want to be one, this guide is for you. To ensure versatility, it's best to have five different suit colours on hand: black, navy blue, grey, brown, and tan. Additionally, you should have a selection of four shirts in classic colours like white, blue, cream, and brown. Throw in your belt and cufflinks, and you are set!

A fun fact is that you can mix and match these outfits and get great results, giving the impression that you have an endless supply of clothes.

Minika Art on

Chronicling African Cultures

BY OLAMIDE OLAREWAJU

Minika is an expressionist visual artist who grew up surrounded by nature and its many elements. Her artistic and cultural upbringing influences her work and has a significant impact on her creative expression. Growing up in Calabar, a society rich in vibrant and flamboyant cultural experiences, had a significant impact on her and, by extension, her work. She became fascinated with art at a young age and fell in love with it.

Learning more about art drew her into the beauty industry, where she rose to become one of Nigeria's top makeup artists, with a make-up style that ranged from soft to expressive. Minika is constantly exploring and sharing her life's journey through various media. She sees the human body as one of her canvases on which to tell these stories. Her art is vibrant and colourful, and it reflects her rich African heritage. She discusses her unique style of art and why she is documenting African cultures through art.

Minika is a fusion of arts and photography; tell us about it.

Minika is currently exploring photography in partnership with Hakeem Salaam, one of Nigeria’s renowned photographers. However, the vision is to explore many other art forms in the course of my artistic journey. There are so many sources of inspiration and so many mediums to express yourself through. The future is full of prospects and potential. It is truly exciting.

Let’s go back. How did this start? How did your journey into the arts/How did Minika come by?

Growing up in Calabar was full of colourful and flamboyant cultural experiences, which strongly influenced my art. The Efik culture is bold and absolutely beautiful. This cuts across face painting, attire, food, hairstyles, cultural experiences, and so much more. Seeing these on a daily basis helped mold me into the artist I am today.

I was born into a deeply rooted cultural Efik family full of artists, and they helped tickle my creativity in various ways. I started exploring the arts at an early age and haven’t stopped expressing them.

In my journey as an artist, I found myself in the beauty industry, where I rose to become one of Nigeria’s top makeup artists, my style of make-up ranging from soft to expressive looks. Today, I am exploring different forms of art, and I am eager to try more.

How do you come up with your pieces (they are different, very different from what we see around)? What inspired you to create these pieces?

The pieces you see are tailored to different projects centered around Africa. The first project called

ili was focused on indigenous Nigerian fabrics, and so inspiration was drawn from the fabrics, which were carefully selected to represent different parts of the country. ili explored the many colours and artistic expressions in the daily and social endeavours of Nigerian ethnic groups, highlighting underlying connections deeply rooted in these cultural, ceremonial, and even spiritual fabrics.

The second project, called Ekomo, is centered around African musical instruments. Ekomo pieces draw from the sounds, designs, people, and history of each instrument in focus. Ekomo speaks to how several factors like migration, trade, beliefs, etc. have influenced the traditional music of Africa and how all these movements have generated the different sounds we have today, tracing back history to identify that many genres got their roots in Africa. Ekomo also highlights the beauty of the instruments and the richness of the sounds they produce.

You have a special canvas, a human/ model. What inspired you to use a human (model) as your canvas?

I am in a phase where I am currently exploring body art. The human body is indeed special, and I find that it gives room for a lot of creativity. The shades, the contours, the lines, and the details are all in abundance, so there is a lot of room to play (*laughs). The human body allows me to experience colour and movement, and this leaves room for a lot of adventure.

There is an energy that comes with working with a living being. It speaks life, instantly. The piece is alive (how do I explain this without sounding crazy? *laughs*). This form of expression is liberating, both for me as the

artist and for the subject. It is a beautiful experience when I see how body art also helps the subject build positivity about their bodies. That’s a different conversation in itself. Finally, body art is quite significant in different African cultures, which ties in solidly with my brand.

Ili and the other themed pieces chronicle cultures; why this take?

I believe we need to shed light on how amazing the African continent is. The richness and fullness of Africa can’t be expressed in a lifetime, so telling African stories through my art comes naturally to me. It is who I am.

What do you hope to achieve with Minika in a few years?

Minika will continue to explore art in its many forms. She will continue to express herself through different mediums, one story at a time.

The Best Time To Start Your Workout Journey IS RIGHT NOW

BY DANIELLE ANENE

You've finally decided to start working out after several failed attempts. Despite previous efforts, committing to a fitness lifestyle has proven difficult, and it may be the one New Year's resolution you haven't kept. You are now giving it another chance, despite the fact that you previously found it difficult to commit to. It's fine to look into other options if you've decided that going to the gym isn't for you.

Committing to a fitness lifestyle can be challenging, especially if you've struggled with it in the past and may have even given up altogether. However, as the saying goes, "if at first you don't succeed, try again," and that's exactly what you're doing by giving it another chance. In this edition, we'll share some tricks to help you build a sustainable fitness routine that works for you.

GET A PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

If you plan to start a new exercise or fitness routine that involves using more of your muscles, it's best to first consult a fitness doctor for a physical check-up. During the check-up, you will need to perform various tests to determine if you are physically capable of pursuing your chosen activity or if there are certain exercises you should avoid. This step is crucial in helping you set a realistic pace and avoid potential injuries.

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START SMALL AND THEN BUILD UP

Similar to a baby's developmental process of crawling before walking, it's important to ease into a new exercise routine gradually. Instead of diving headfirst into an intense workout regimen, consider starting with a leisurely walk in the morning or evening. As your endurance improves, you can progress to a brisk walk, then a jog, and eventually full-on running, for instance. This approach allows you to build up your stamina over time and explore other types of exercise as you become more comfortable with your fitness level.

GET A FITNESS PARTNER

Starting a fitness journey can be challenging, especially when you've attempted it multiple times and fallen short. It can be a daunting task to undertake alone, which is why having a partner with the same fitness goals can make all the difference. This person doesn't have to be a close friend; you can find someone who shares your aspirations for a healthier lifestyle. With a partner, you'll have someone to encourage you and keep you accountable, making the journey much more manageable.

HAVE A SCHEDULE

Losing motivation for exercise is often a result of not having a consistent routine. Without a plan in place, various distractions and excuses can quickly derail your workout efforts. Even with a routine established, the key is to stay committed and make time for exercise on designated workout days. Failing to do so can lead to missed workouts that may eventually pile up and disrupt your fitness progress.

START WITH A WARM UP

Typically, a warm-up lasting between 5 to 10 minutes is sufficient. However, this can vary depending on the individual and weather conditions, particularly when it's cold. It's best to begin with light aerobic exercise like walking, cycling, or rowing. If you have access to gym equipment, these activities can be easily performed on an exercise machine. But, if you're at home, you can incorporate exercises such as jumping jacks, fast-paced sidestepping, and arm swings into your routine.

CELEBRATE YOUR JOURNEY

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As you embark on your fitness journey, it's essential to remember that this is a lifestyle change that requires patience and commitment. Celebrate the small successes along the way and set achievable targets for yourself. Instead of overwhelming yourself with lofty goals, try setting smaller, attainable ones. Establishing a support system can also be incredibly helpful in staying motivated and accountable. Remember, progress takes time and effort, but with dedication, you can achieve your fitness goals.

The Special Tenth Issue; A REINTRODUCTION

BY OLAMIDE OLAREWAJU

DTNow's 10th edition is special in a lot of ways. It's an easy reminder of how far we've come in such a short time since our first edition went live on April 2, 2023. Dtnow is the lifestyle anchor for the Daily Times Nigeria, Nigeria's oldest surviving news media platform, which has been published since 1926.

It's not an easy feat if you're familiar with the media and publishing space, especially when we're intentional about putting out the best possible content, styling, and everything else that comes with a creative shoot in tow.

From our first; media entrepreneur and an absolutely hardworking role model, The Mo Abudu, to the doyen of property ownership, Paul Onwuanibe, designer extraordinaire Mai Atafo, Microsoft’s Ola Williams, and the AMVCAs, It’s been a lot of hard work, but we are here for it all.

Kate Henshaw’s daring stilettos on a treadmill-themed shoot to Zaron Cosmetics’ privacy-loving founder Oke Maduewesi, Guinness world record holder Hilda Baci, and timeless artist and photographer Kelechi Amadi Obi

We have pulled off nine covers, and the tenth is finally here. The entire team— publisher, founder, and entire "engine" in human form who made it all work— deserves all of the credit.

We are leaving you with a delightful spread of past covers and excerpts to help you juggle your memories.

• Believe in yourself: Always remember that you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Believe in yourself and your abilities.

• Embrace your uniqueness: Don't try to be like anyone else. Embrace your individuality and celebrate what makes you unique.

• Stand up for yourself: Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and your beliefs. Speak your mind and be confident in your opinions.

• Never stop learning: Keep learning and growing as a person. Take advantage of every opportunity to gain new knowledge and skills.

• Build strong relationships: Build strong relationships with people who support and encourage you. Surround yourself with positive influences.

• Take care of yourself: Make sure to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Prioritize self-care and make it a part of your daily routine.

• Follow your passions: Pursue your passions and interests. Find something you love and make it a part of your life.

• Be kind and compassionate: Treat others with kindness and compassion. Practice empathy and put yourself in others' shoes.

• Remember that you are valuable and have a unique contribution to make in this world. Stay strong, confident, and true to yourself, and you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Remember - "If you can think it, you can do it."

dreams.

• Maximally utilize opportunities; The opportunity of a lifetime can only be realized within the lifetime of that opportunity.

On

On tips for people looking up to him or looking up to his level of success;

• Think solvability, scalability, and sustainability; The best businesses solve a problem for the masses.

• Underestimate intelligence, overestimate experience; The best source of knowledge is experience.

• Invest in relationships; that’s how you build unquantifiable wealth.

• Change is inevitable, so constantly evolve your business; Complacency is the killer of

On what’s next for the Atafo brand;

• I don't think it's a particular milestone we're trying to achieve next, but there's a journey, and it's trying to be THE designer brand out of Africa. So when people are calling the Pradas and the Guccis, they will call Atafo. I think that's the ultimate goal at the end of the day, and that's a journey; that's the next step.

• The reason someone wants to buy a Birkin bag from Hermes for millions of Naira is because they've sold something to them, so I want that to be the case for Atafo, where we do something and people want to buy. When you buy a designer bag, you're proud of it; it's almost a boastful thing, and that's what I want it to be for Atafo.

• So it's a journey; it's not there. We've started it quite well, but it's not there yet. We still have to justify it to some people, but we want to leave the case open, so we do not have to justify it. That's the ultimate goal.

Ola Williams

On career tips for ladies who want to build a career in tech?

• I know that everyone’s life circumstances are different, but the common thing is that everyone wants to succeed in their career. I would not say we have one-size-fits-all tips to be successful, but here is a list of tips I suggest for ladies pursuing a career in tech to embrace:

• Embrace continuous learning. The tech industry is ever-evolving and requires continuous learning.

• Set a goal for yourself. Setting audacious personal goals keeps you focused and motivated as you have things you are working towards.

• Get a mentor. Mentoring is critical to a

Mo Abudu

Paul Onwuanibe

Mai Atafo

successful career journey, and much more important in the tech industry. But ensure you get a mentor in line with your set objectives.

• Network – join tech communities related to your career aspirations, but don't just be a passive member. Make it a point of duty to contribute to any community you are part of, as this helps you grow and gives you an opportunity to be visible.

• Stay current -- ensure you are up to date on trends and future opportunities in the industry. Subscribe to and follow tech organizations that are relevant to your career objectives on social media. Subscribe to newsletters and journals on technology.

• Participate in industry events. Make sure to attend industry events to get more insight and keep up to date on emerging events in the industry. Industry events are also a great opportunity to grow your professional network.

• Celebrate your successes – every step towards achieving your goal is worth celebrating. Learn to give yourself a pat on the back for every significant achievement and learn to tell your story.

• Don’t be afraid to fail, but seek to learn from your failure.

• Be patient – be mindful that it takes time for you to achieve your career growth. Run your race, draw inspiration from other people’s success, but refrain from measuring your success by the success of others. With focus, commitment, and tenacity, you will reach your God-given destiny.

• Be grateful. Being grateful and having a positive attitude help to manage stress during challenging situations, and can help increase creative ability and problemsolving skills.

• Speak up; it does not matter if you are the only woman in the room, if you have an idea, share your views. Your view is as important as that of any other person in the room.

• Embrace constructive criticism; do not dwell on negative feedback in a manner that will hinder you from taking risks in the future, but build on it and let it propel you to overcome your next challenge.

The AMVCA's Special

Our special AMVCAs edition presented stars I was rooting for, chiefly Nse Ikpe-Etim, Ini Edo and Kunle Remi. Our spread included lavish coverage of looks for the night as well as a full list of winners for 2023.

work is. You come with your shoulders in the air; you don't have respect for those who come before you; that's a pet peeve of mine. I'm sorry. You don't have respect for those that come before you; you don't greet; you are not willing to be taught. It's not going to last, and it's not a curse.

• You need to watch those who came before you who are still in the game and still relevant. I don't need to mention names; you can check. Come for the love of the craft; come to learn; even I learn every day. I remember Uncle Olu saying to me, “ Be willing to learn and to better yourself”. See what is being done out there—the practices. I've done stage, TV, and film. Sorry, I'm calling Rita's (Rita Dominic Anosike) name; she has done stage, TV, and films as well. And so many other people that I can call. That's why I watch movies. I watch other actors in Hollywood and Bollywood; I want to see how they're doing it. I love Viola Davis so much. I love her. She's someone I love. Lately, JLo, I am seeing her comic side; you know, there are two movies of hers I've watched; this woman is actually very funny. She's a strong woman. I love Tracee Ellis Ross, and I love Charlize Theron. She's got a long, lean look. I love it. There are so many of them like that that I really like.

• Top of my list is Angela Bassett at 60-something. You see, we are following her. You know, these are people who have been in the game. They're still there. There's something that they're doing right. They are conscientious about their work. They don't mess around with their job. They don't feel as if they have a right that everybody should kowtow and bow to them. No. Have a teachable spirit. Being able to learn is, for me, the best thing ever.

Oke Maduewesi

On what to tell anyone interested in building a successful brand and what helped her personally;

• I have something I call the three roadmaps, right? The first is the power of the mind, which I've spoken about. And you have to believe in it, right? You have to trust it and you have to want to do this. And so it's the power of the mind. Think of the fact that just know, like when I started out, I did not have a plan B. So people always say, If it failed, what would you have done? There was not a thought in my head. It was the scariest thing to start, but there was no thought in my head that said it could fail. So there was no plan B. So my drive was the fact that I knew that it had to work. So even when I had challenges and stumbling blocks, and all the work, I just didn't think it wouldn't work. So you just have to keep going. And I always say I work from the end to the beginning. So I see the picture already, and I start working from that picture. As opposed to just seeing where I want to go and starting, I always see the picture. So at every point in time, if I have roadblocks and challenges because I've seen that picture, I just keep going, It might take longer, some cases shorter, you know, but that picture is there, and until I get to that picture, I'm not stopping. So the mind is really powerful. So you have to truly believe in it. It's not just lip-singing.

On making a name in the movie industry and staying relevant;

• Don't come for fame. Don't come and say, I want to be a star. I hate those words. I mean, it might happen; you'd be a star, but then how do you sustain it? Sustainability. Maintenance. It's where the

• The second thing is to take action. You really have to take action, I always say that I learned from a seminar I went to, that the difference between a goal and a dream is timelines, So you can have a goal, but if you don't put timelines in it, then it becomes a dream for the rest of your life. So you just have to put timelines, in place and just keep doing it. Don't think of what you don't have; just think of where you're going and keep working toward it.

• And then the last and final thing, which is probably the most difficult, is making it work So only about 20% of businesses pass through year one. So you have to make sure that you

Kate Henshaw

work towards making it work. And making it work is from the marketing to the Human resources to the supply chain to all the work and every challenge that you face, so you just have to keep going, keep driving, and just keep pushing. Regardless of what you see along the way.

On anyone who is trying to find their way- looking up to her;

• Just start; don't wait for it to be perfect Because people see me now and just assume that I dropped from the sky, but that wasn't the case, there was an entire journey. Unfortunately, there was no Tiktok for me to film content when I did my first empty house and all that but just start; don't wait for it to be perfect There's beauty in growth, like there's a lot of beauty in growth, because, in truth, you will not appreciate how far you've come unless you can look back at where you're coming from. So honestly, just keep at it.

• Every day strive to improve your craft, improve your mental health, and improve your vocabulary; just make it a conscious effort that you need to be learning something every day, whether it's in entertainment, fashion, or politics. Just make a conscious effort to learn and grow because you don't know it all. It's important to also have a teachable spirit, ask questions where you're not sure and don't jump to conclusions, don't just assume, don't take a little bit of knowledge and then think you know It's all. It's important to constantly learn and grow because that's the only way you'll be able to build something better. It's important that you evolve. You're constantly evolving and changing with time.

Kelechi Amadi-Obi

On what the new crop of photographers can do better to improve their craft;

• To improve your craft, the first thing you need to do is do the work. First, decide that this is what you truly want to do. Because for me, that is crucial. A lot of people are not sure, and if what motivates you to do it is money, then you are on a long thing. I'm sorry; you know you're on the wrong track because, at first, you're not going to be good enough for somebody to pay you. So if people are not paying you, you will lose steam, and you won't be able to practice enough to get good enough for people to pay you.

• So the first thing you need to do is say, This is what I like to do; this is what I want to do, whether I'm paid or not. So that passion would drive you through the process of mastery. By the time you start to master it, you're on another journey. So at the end of the day, in your first years, you know you're going to copy a lot of people, but find that time to start learning who you are.

• And start having the confidence to speak. But that confidence comes from mastery. So what I say is this. To succeed, do good work and show it.

Hilda Baci

Colour Themes In Your Home

BY DANIELLE ANENE

The colours in your home are the first thing that catches your attention or the attention of anyone visiting. Colours have a fascinating ability to influence your subconscious and create a certain mood at home. Research has demonstrated how colours can be used to regulate moods and affect one's state of mind. Each colour choice carries its own unique vibe into your home.

When considering the impact of selecting the appropriate colours for our environment, it serves as a helpful reference in choosing hues that align with the desired ambiance or desired atmosphere. It is crucial to bear in mind that colours not only influence our emotions but can also enhance our appearance. While interior design is primarily centered around creativity, we must also acknowledge the consequences of our choices. This edition will provide you with an overview of various room colours and their impact on the interior, ensuring that your room creates the desired mood.

ENERGIZING EFFECT

Picture this: You have just returned from a physically draining day out and you feel utterly exhausted. Wouldn't you prefer to step into a space that instantly uplifts your mood? A space that temporarily pushes any lingering worries to the back of your mind? This is the magical power of warm coloursthey evoke feelings of happiness, optimism, and energy.

Colours such as red, orange, and yellow can be incorporated into your space for a maximum impact. To achieve this, it would be ideal to choose decor that complements the colour scheme, even if they are in different shades of the same colour. This will make the colours vibrant and enhance your living space.

CALMING AND SOOTHING EFFECTS

In contrast to energizing colours, these particular colours bring a sense of calmness. They evoke feelings of tranquility and peace. When you walk into this room, you immediately feel a decrease in tension. Colours like these in terms of its psychological effects on us, have the ability to relax the mind and slow down heart rate, metabolism, blood pressure, and even hypertension.

Colours such as blue, green, white, and even pink all have a unified theme that promotes a calming environment. The specific shade you choose determines the effect it will have. White, for instance, can make a space appear larger, while purple is often associated with regality and sophistication. Green signifies a connection to the earth, blue has a healing effect, and pink showcases love.

Time to Embrace Our Natural Hair

BY DR IKUNNA ONWUANIBE

Ablack woman’s hair is a core part of her identity. Good hair helps her to exude confidence. Therefore, losing hair can have a devastating effect on a black woman’s well-being. Hair loss is associated with stigmatisation and lack of confidence.

Hair loss is common in black women. About half of black women experience some form of hair loss in their lifetime. Many women are embarrassed and fail to seek help to address hair loss. Many will wait several years to seek help, and the damage may be permanent when they do.

Why is Afro-textured hair different?

Afro-textured hair is one of the most delicate forms of curly hair, therefore, more susceptible to thinning and breakage.

Afro-textured hair is also drier because the kinks, coils and curls make it difficult for natural sebum created by our scalp to run down the entire shaft of the hair. Additionally, compared to European hair, which, on average, has approximately 227 hairs per square centimetre, the average density of afro-textured hair is about 190 hairs per square centimetre; hence, we have lower hair density.

Moreover, we are well aware that Haircare brands significantly underserve Afro-textured hair. For a long time, Hair products targeted to black women often included toxic chemicals like parabens, sulphates, mineral oil and silicon, and these chemicals not only wreak havoc on your hair. All these factors contribute to the fragility of black hair and the tendency to thin and break, so it can be a struggle to get a black woman’s hair to grow past a certain length.

What causes hair loss?

There are many causes of hair loss in black women. Multiple factors could account for hair loss in one person.

Hair loss can also be a result of stress and poor diet. Chronic stress has been linked to hair loss as significant stress pushes large numbers of hair follicles into a resting phase. Within a few months, affected hairs might fall out suddenly when simply combing or washing your hair. Poor health, like anaemia, low vitamin D and thyroid disease, and lupus, significantly contribute to hair loss. Oestrogen keeps the hair in the growth phase for longer; therefore, some women experience hair loss after childbirth due to drops in oestrogen levels and around menopause when women stop producing oestrogen.

Hair loss can also be genetic, as seen in conditions like alopecia areata and female pattern hair loss. Alopecia areata starts with circular bald patches on the scalp and it is primarily an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles. It can also occur in any part of the body, and severe cases lead to hair loss on the entire body. Conversely, female pattern hair loss is the most common in women due to irregular hormones, ageing and genetics. Unlike its counterpart, male-pattern baldness, female-pattern baldness is an overall thinning while retaining the normal hairline. There is not much to do to prevent genetic hair loss, but it can be limited with treatment.

A more common cause of hair loss in black women is Traction Alopecia. This happens when there is damage to the scalp from recurrent pulling and rubbing of hair, leading to inflammation around the hair follicles. This is usually seen in women wearing tight weaves, braids, hair extensions and specific wigs. These hairstyles practices pull at the hair root, which leads to hair loss and thinning. Traction alopecia usually causes recession of the front hairline and the margins of your scalp, where the most pulling is exerted during hairstyling. Traction alopecia can be reversible if caught early and attributed hairstyle practices stopped. However, it is important to note that prolonged constant hair pulling can cause irreversible damage to the hair roots and follicles. The best solution to control traction alopecia is to stop hair styling practices that pull tightly and cause pain.

A unique form of hair loss is central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA). CCCA is a form of scarring alopecia that clinically presents as patches of permanent hair loss on the crown of the scalp and spreads. CCCA affects mainly women of African descent and may occur in families; however, it has also been linked to excessive heat use with hot combs, straighteners, and chemical agents to relax and colour hair. Hair loss usually starts slowly and progresses with time. Some women may have symptoms of burning, itchy and sensitive

scalps due to CCCA. The best treatment is limiting these hair styling practices; consider a chemical-free hair maintenance routine.

What can black women do to stop hair loss?

For many middle-aged women, the ship has sailed, and these hair styling techniques were fashionable in their formative years. They are now experiencing hair loss from these styling techniques. Black women, especially those that experience hair loss, should be encouraged to consider natural hairstyles. Luckily, more women are embracing their Afro-textured hair. The younger generation should be encourage to take up the natural look hairstyles.

Preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth involves multiple measures; this includes lifestyle measures such as styling practices like wearing your hair in a style that requires little manipulation or in protective styles; seeking medical treatment at the onset of hair loss. We are what we eat, and healthy hair needs good nutrition, so a balanced diet containing Omega 3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins B and C and selenium is essential. Most of these nutrients can be food in fresh fruits and vegetables. However, it is crucial for women experiencing hair loss to take supplements to boost the level of these nutrients. Stress is a part of daily living, so women need to develop strategies to manage their stress.

Bottom Line

Hair loss can be preventable. Multiple factors, from lifestyle measures to styling practices, are necessary to prevent hair loss. Avoid hairstyle methods that lead to hair loss. It is essential to seek help early when you notice hair thinning or loss to avoid permanent loss.

Dr Ikunna Onwuanibe Family Physician at Dennis Ashley Medical Clinic

Landmark Towers, Oniru, VI, Lagos @ikupopsicles

Ikunna has over 25 years’ experience in family medicine and holds a master's degree in public health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Her main interests are in women’s health and preventing longterm illnesses. Dennis Ashley Medical Clinic offers family physician and endoscopy services.

UPFRONT WITH MUNACHI: Guests At The Book Launch And Website Unveiling

BY DANIELLE ANENE

MMunachi Mbonu, arguably one of Nigeria's youngest authors, hosted a book launch event at the Raddison Hotel on July 14th. Her website was also launched on this special occasion. The event began at 10 a.m., with distinguished guests from a variety of reputable organizations in attendance. Among the many distinguished guests in attendance were Joke Silva, Noble Igwe, and Mr. Nonso Okplala. This would be Munachi's fourth book, following her previous release in 2019. In "Pearl," Munachi expertly tells the story of a young girl and her school experiences. This book is intended for readers aged 13 and up. Munachi's mission is to raise mental health awareness and advocate for those who need it.

Munachi's mother could be seen bustling around the event, ensuring that the guests were well taken care of. A radiant glow radiated from her, a clear reflection of her satisfaction and pride as a mother. This was especially evident when she took the stage to deliver her speech, thanking her daughter for making her so proud and for being the best daughter anyone could ask for. When asked how she managed to balance school and writing, Munachi acknowledged her mother, who instilled discipline in her and taught her the value of prioritizing tasks.

Some well-known people took the stage to read excerpts from the book. Olive Emodi, a media personality, hosted the event, which was attended by students from Munachi's school, who were able to interact with the anchor through games and interactive question sessions.

Following the reading, an official website dedicated to providing free access to literature was launched.

The event concluded with photo opportunities, interaction with the young author, and refreshments. It is truly amazing to see the brilliant minds of the younger generation, and Munachi is a prime example of this.

WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS 2023

Mission 89 collaborated with IOM to host a commemorative event called "World against Trafficking" at Pure Fitness Africa, Lekki Phase 1, on July 28, 2023. The primary goal of this event was to raise awareness among young athletes about current trends and advancements in human trafficking in the sports industry.

The young athletes listened attentively as Dr. May Ikeora, a specialist in Anti-trafficking, gender, and peacebuilding, presided over the event and introduced Lerina Bright, the Executive Director of Mission 89; Laurent M.J. De Boeck, the Chief of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and other speakers. They discussed a variety of topics with the youths, providing sound advice and tips on how the traffickers could find them.

The young people were divided into groups for a fun and interactive session that included a competition. Each group was challenged to come up with strategies and solutions to combat human trafficking, as well as ways to support their career goals.

The winners received cash prizes and other prizes provided by the sponsors. Following this segment, there was a thrilling 30-minute ball juggling performance in which the students demonstrated their impressive tricks and talents.

The program came to a close at 2 p.m., leaving the air buzzing with the students' enthusiasm. They'd gained valuable knowledge on how to navigate the football industry and avoid falling into the wrong hands.

COOKBOOK: KOREAN FRIED CHICKEN

BY DANIELLE ANENE

For those who love chicken, let us ask you a quick question: Have you ever tried Korean chicken? Whether it's crispy or fried, if you haven't given it a try, you're in for a treat!

We are excited to share a delicious Korean recipe with you that will leave you feeling completely satisfied with every bite. This edition will focus on the fried version of the chicken - the kind that will have you licking your fingers clean after eating it. So get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering dish like never before!

Korean fried chicken emerged during the Korean War when African-American soldiers, who had a fondness for deep-fried chicken as a soul food staple, introduced it to South Korea. Over the years, recipes evolved and gained popularity. However, it was during the 1997 Asian financial crisis, when unemployment was high, that many jobless people turned to creating their own fried chicken joints as a means of making a living. This chicken, when made well, alerts all your senses; for a moment, you want to dwell on nothing else but the taste of it and the burst of all the ingredients in one bite!

For the ingredients you will be needing,

To Fry the Chicken

• Chicken wings or chicken breasts

• Vegetable oil

• 1 tsp. kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 tsp. baking powder

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

• 1 tbsp. freshly grated ginger

• 1/2 cornstarch

To Make the Sauce

• 3 tbsp. butter

• 5 small dried red chilis, sliced

• 1 tbsp. freshly minced ginger

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 gochujang (can be found in any Asian supermarket)

• 2 tbsp. ketchup

• 1 tbsp. rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 honey

• 2 tbsp. packed brown sugar

To Garnish the Chicken

• 1/2 c. cocktail peanuts

• 1 tbsp. sesame seeds

• 1 green onion, sliced

Prepping the Chicken:

• In a deep pot over medium-high heat, heat up your vegetable oil. Line a large plate or baking sheet with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, baking powder, and garlic powder.

• Pat your chicken dry, then rub with grated ginger and season with salt mixture. In a large bowl, toss wings with cornstarch and squeeze to compress coating onto each side.

• Carefully add your chicken to oil and fry until skin is just lightly crisped and golden, occasionally flipping with tongs, about 15 to 18 minutes. Remove your chicken from oil and set aside on prepared plate. Let it cool briefly.

• Heat up your frying oil. Return chicken to pot and fry again until deeply golden and skin is crisp and crunchy, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove the mixture from oil and place in a large mixing bowl.

Making the sauce:

• In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, add butter, dried chilis, ginger, and garlic and cook until fragrant, 2 minutes. Stir in gochujang, ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce and cook until bubbling. Stir in honey and brown sugar and continue cooking until bubbling and slightly thickened.

• Pour sauce over chicken and toss until evenly coated. Add in peanuts and toss to combine.

• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion before serving.

Now you have your delicious Korean fried chicken! The perfect finger food for your movie time and even to entertain your guests! We hope you enjoy this recipe.