DTNOW July 9TH

HILDA BACI: After Setting a Cook-a-thon Record, IT'S TIME TO TAKE THIS GEN Z SERIOUSLY

HILDA BACI:

Content

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In an effort to bring back the denim trend, this edition will show you five stylish ways to incorporate denim into your wardrobe. Whether you want to wear it formally or casually, rest assured that denim can give you the edgy and fashionable look you desire.

HILDA BACI: After Setting a Cooka-thon Record, It's Time To Take This Gen Z Seriously

Winning a Guinness World Record is no mean feat. As someone offered a bit of background on the preparation for this one, I can say this.

From trying to apply to inviting an adjudicator, record consultancy, the guidelines for and understanding the guidelines for the application process, waiting time till approval, how to break the Guinness World Records title, a guide to evidence, and so on It’s a whole lot of preparation and intentionality, so as easy as it may seem (or as Hilda Baci made it seem), it’s a whole lot to work on, and with a team of about 120 people, she certainly wasn’t playing or leaving anything to chance.

5 Ways To Style Your Denim Jacket

What Flowers To Give For Different Occasions Ii

PUBLISHER

Rita Dominic

EDITOR

Olamide Olarewaju

WRITER

Danielle Anene

PAGE PLANNER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER King Remus

5 Ways To Spice Up Your Broccoli

SOCIAL MEDIA

Faith Okenwa

"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."

Hey there, welcome! like this edition a lot!

I

She has a really good head on her shoulders, that’s for sure. For someone in her twenties, she definitely has a lot to offer, having worked in the media and even acting in addition to her love of cooking. She gets busy.

The young woman's work ethic is impressive, and I'm glad she's telling her story so no one can label her as just another "slay queen." Preparing for the Guinness World Record took eight months, so everything will go as planned, not to mention how she saved up to make the experience a grand affair, self-sponsoring the cooka-thon 80%.

You should read her interview (at this point, there may be other parts as this is not our entire conversation). I like that she talks too. She tells you everything once she gets comfortable. I like her confidence in her abilities. This week, travel influencer Wakawaka Doctor tells us to travel more, and he has solid reasons why everyone should at different points in their lives; it's definitely worth a read.

Danielle is back this week dishing on skincare mistakes to avoid, some of which, I can tell you, are things we take for granted. So get a-glowing with tips this week.

Denim gets a well-deserved spotlight this week, with Danielle sharing chic ways to wear it. This week's People and Places include a vibrant Barbiethemed party.

There’s a recipe that both foodies and cooking enthusiasts will enjoy as well. It's packed and curated with you in mind, as usual, so there's something for everyone.

Read, enjoy, and share.

See you in the next one!

FASHION VOL. 1 - NO. 8, 09 JULY 2023 | 2 WWW.DTNOW.NG

Olamide Olarewaju EDITOR

BARBIE The Movie Beach Party

BY DANIELLE ANENE

The Barbie movie is scheduled to premiere on July 16th. In anticipation of this exciting event, the organizers have planned a series of amazing events in Nigeria to build excitement and raise awareness for the movie. The first event took place in late June at the beautiful Nirvana private beach resort, where the Barbie beach party was held.

Guests began arriving at Bics Garden around 8 a.m., where they enjoyed mingling and light refreshments provided at the boat pick up location. The women showcased vibrant interpretations of Barbie, while the men exuded their own unique style in their Ken-inspired ensembles. Notably, even influencers and entertainment celebrities joined in on the fun.

By the time the final guests arrived at the secluded beach, the party was already in full swing. The location had been tastefully adorned with an array of pink balloons and furniture, setting the perfect ambiance. It was clear from the start that the overall vibe of the party was relaxed, with no strenuous activities planned. Attendees could be seen enjoying light refreshments and engaging in pleasant conversations, while the DJ effortlessly energized the crowd. There was a stylish Barbie and Ken fashion walk where the influencers confidently strutted along the poolside, receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. It was evident that the organizers put a lot of thought into this event. As 5 p.m. approached, the guests leisurely made their way to the dock, clearly indicating that they had a fantastic time. It was an excellent way to generate excitement for the upcoming movie release, and we absolutely loved it!

5 Ways To Style Your DENIM JACKET

BY DANIELLE ANENE

Is it possible to revive the denim trend? Back in the early 2000s, denim became a fashion craze, seamlessly blending into people's wardrobes. These versatile garments exude elegance and offer numerous styling options. Whether you want a casual or formal look, denim can be easily adapted to suit your needs with subtle changes. In an effort to bring back the denim trend, this edition will show you five stylish ways to incorporate denim into your wardrobe. Whether you want to wear it formally or casually, rest assured that denim can give you the edgy and fashionable look you desire.

• Denim On Denim

Denim on denim is a trendy and stylish choice if you know how to expertly pair the pieces. While it may appear too casual for a formal suit and tie work environment, you can never go wrong with denim on denim. It allows you to effortlessly blend in while still looking dapper.

• Denim Jacket On Jumpsuits And Romper

Putting on a jumpsuit or romper can instantly elevate your style, adding a touch of effortless chic to your look. But if you really want to take it to the next level, consider adding a denim jacket to the mix. This simple addition can transform your ensemble, giving it a cool and edgy vibe. There are two distinct ways to wear this combination: you can either wear the denim jacket properly, buttoned up for a more puttogether appearance, or you can casually throw it over your shoulder with your hands tucked in nonchalantly. Each option gives off a different energy and allows you to play with your personal style. Whether you choose to go for a polished and refined look or opt for a more laid-back and carefree aesthetic, the denim jacket is the perfect companion to enhance the style of your jumpsuit or romper. So go ahead, experiment, and unleash your inner fashionista with this versatile and trendy pairing.

• Denim Jacket On Dresses

Wearing a summer or fall dress paired with a denim jacket can completely transform your outfit. Whether you choose an oversized jacket or one that fits you perfectly, the combination creates a whole new look. You have the flexibility to wear heels or sneakers and still exude stunning style. If you opt for sneakers, it's recommended to choose a plaincolored pair for a sleek finish.

• Denim Jacket On Skirts

Wearing an oversized denim jacket over either your midi skirt or mini skirt can effortlessly enhance your overall appearance, exuding a sense of chic sophistication while also maintaining a playful and girly vibe. The versatile combination of the casual denim jacket paired with the contrasting lengths of the skirt creates a stylish contrast, showcasing your personal style and fashion-forward mentality. The oversized fit of the jacket adds an element of nonchalant coolness, embracing the current trend of relaxed and comfortable dressing. By layering the jacket over your chosen skirt length, you are able to strike the perfect balance between feminine charm and a contemporary edge. Overall, incorporating an oversized denim jacket into your wardrobe rotation adds a touch of trendy flair to your everyday outfits, allowing you to embrace your inner fashionista with ease and style.

• Oversized Denims Jacket On Shorts

The same principle also applies to wearing shorts. While donning a denim on denim ensemble might give off a laid-back vibe suitable for quick errands or a road trip, it remains an important style choice that you should definitely try out.

Beyond Money, It Takes Courage

BY WAKAWAKA DOCTOR

1. Learn History

My grandmother always said that the best lessons are learned outside the classroom. Travel enables us to delve into the history of the places we visit. Through museums, zoos, theme parks, conversations with locals, and immersing ourselves in their cultures, we develop a genuine sense of belonging and learn about the destination's rich history. We discover new languages, captivating landscapes, savour local cuisine, and gain insights into diverse lifestyles. Travel expands our minds, educating us beyond textbooks and travel guides. If nothing else, let curiosity inspire your travels.

2. Escape Reality

There are moments when we all crave an escape from reality. I remember the blissful three months I spent in Ghana and Gambia, where I enjoyed complete privacy in unfamiliar territories. It granted me the freedom to live in the moment and savour every second of my stay. Although far from home, I relished the ability to go wherever I pleased, embrace different personas, and experience life through a unique lens. Travel allows us to be spontaneous and seek new adventures.

3. Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is like discovering a feast without paying a dime. Who doesn't appreciate a complimentary internet connection? While it

may not be common in Nigeria to stumble upon places with free Wi-Fi for tourists, other countries treat it as standard practice. This aspect of travel enables me to stay connected with family and friends, update my social media channels, and share the beauty of the world and my experiences.

4. Discover New Cultures

Culture is the essence of life. Travel exposes us to different ways of life, diverse cultures, and ancient traditions. It fosters understanding and respect for others' perspectives and lifestyles. Through travel, our world expands, revealing new experiences and endless possibilities. We learn to embrace new customs, say "yes" to unimaginable adventures, and encounter unforgettable individuals. Dancing the Gomè dance in Ghana, immersing in the Kanuri culture in Yobe State, conquering Table Mountain in Cape Town, savouring Gambian Jollof Rice, and strolling the streets of Rome— all these experiences make travel exhilarating. As the saying goes, "A mind stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions."

5. Live out Your Bucket List

A bucket list comprises experiences and achievements one hopes to fulfil in their lifetime. Perhaps your first item is to embark on that dream trip. It is never too late to travel, for life is short. Visit neighbouring countries or towns you've yearned to explore, go hiking, or

conquer mountains with friends. Embrace the flow of energy. Check off the items on your list, and in doing so, you'll experience the wonders of travel that we all cherish.

Travel is not just about money; it's about summoning the courage to venture into the unknown. Embrace the world with an open heart and an adventurous spirit, and you'll discover a life-enriching journey beyond measure.

About Wakawaka Doctor

The term "wakawaka" is an informal way of describing a global trotter. I am a practising Medical doctor with interests in Mental and Public Health who travels to Jolly.

Travelling, seeing new places, cultures and meeting new people help me achieve this I have visited 70 countries and 100 cities.

I am a Medical doctor, Brand influencer, and Content creator with a travel community of more than 1 million followers across 4 major platforms, including YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, with the same handle on all platforms (Wakawaka_doctor).

I am also the chief editor of wakawakadoctor.com where I document my travel experiences and educate people on travel tips and migration.

HILDA BACI:

After Setting a Cook-a-thon Record, It's Time To Take This Gen Z Seriously

BY OLAMIDE OLAREWAJU

Winning a Guinness World Record is no mean feat. As someone offered a bit of background on the preparation for this one, I can say this.

From trying to apply to inviting an adjudicator, record consultancy, the guidelines for and understanding the guidelines for the application process, waiting time till approval, how to break the Guinness World Records title, a guide to evidence, and so on It’s a whole lot of preparation and intentionality, so as easy as it may seem (or as Hilda Baci made it seem), it’s a whole lot to work on, and with a team of about 120 people, she certainly wasn’t playing or leaving anything to chance.

She is also a perfectionist; she’s a “go big or go home” girl, and that’s evident in planning her Cook-a-thon (something Nowe from her team coined from her “Cooking Marathon” tag, and that’s become a tag sensation).

She’s worked because she’s had to. Worked in TV stations and shuttled between Abuja and Lagos before even getting her own place in Lagos, cooking for 200 staff in a Nigerian company, and proudly taking on projects that will move her forward and ultimately earn her financial independence. Her cosy restaurant in Lekki 1 lets you know the head chef is intentional about her craft.

She constantly mentions how people try to downplay her abilities, calling her a “slay queen.” Admittedly, she likes to dress a certain way, but that’s what she wants—her style, her body. That doesn’t take away how smart she is. And I agree, because if you stay in a room with that smart lady, you will be held spellbound by her big dreams, and she’s well on her way to achieving everything. She’s that driven! I am excited to share her story; there’s something youthful and pure behind her that makes sure she’s taken seriously.

In her DTNow Interview, she’s talking about preparing herself for this, working her way up, her brand new life as a record breaker, working on a book documenting her childhood and recipes, and more.

You have a fresh platform after breaking a record; what has been happening to you and for you as a brand and as a food content creator?

I've pretty much stayed doing what I know how to do, which is creating content, working on my class recipes, setting the ball rolling, and all the other things I had planned, like finding a space for the restaurant expansion because we're opening up a bigger space. Obviously, there are lots of meetings, photo shoots, and interviews like the one we're having now, so it's just balancing out the extra deliverables that I now have and continuing what I used to do before.

What has changed since breaking a Guinness World Record? Who was Hilda Baci before winning this cooking record, and who are you now? Personally and all?

Personally, I wouldn't say anything has changed; maybe I'm a bit more conscious now in terms of just my environment and what's going on around me, but in terms of my career, obviously, I have a lot more work to do, I'm in talks with a lot more brands, and I'm having more serious conversations. I have a lot more responsibility.

So I'm just curious to know how much your life has changed. I'm sure it has changed careerwise, business-wise, personally. How do you find yourself right now compared to how it was before? What's the difference?

A lot of things have changed. Obviously, lots of people now know me and know what I

look like. And sometimes I forget—honestly, I actually forget. So when I go somewhere and I notice that everybody's looking at me, there's obviously that. My social media has pretty much blown up, so lots of people are on my social media when I post a picture, a video, or even a story. I think the only thing that has pretty much stayed the same are my friends. Like, my friends are still the same, they still yab me the same, they are not all over me, you know, they're honestly still the same people. And I think that helps with keeping everything else, like, maybe my personal life, very grounded, you know.

But work-wise, I have a lot more deliverables, like, every day. I used to see it in movies, and before you know it, this is my life. In movies, they'll be like, Oh, she has become successful; the next day she's asking her assistant, what am I doing today? And you know, one day I was actually asking my assigned assistant, Oh, what am I doing on Thursday? And they just don't know, like, Really, you? Like, this is you; wow, you know. So now it's weird, like, I have a calendar; I have a lot of things. But I constantly feel like this, so I don't know if this is a good or bad thing. I have a severe case of imposter syndrome.

And even before the cook-a-thon, when my business page had blown up, that was something I still struggled with. So every time I have so much to do, I have media rounds, and there's something telling me, Don't get used to this. It may not always be like this. I guess that's trying to keep me humble, but it also tries to stop me from basking in the experience of all the changes. But I'm starting to understand

Cover Credits

Photography: Humphrey Ominisan

Makeup Products: Zaron

Cosmetics

Hair: Ozoigbo Henry for Hair by Brown

Styling: Dipo Ayo-Adeusi For Light In The Marketplace

Styling assistants: Ayomide Sanni, Rhoda Briggs

Outfits

Moofa

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The RANI Company

Location: WOODstyles Limited

Experience Centre

that that's not the case. Accepting it is not a bad thing. Obviously, lots of people are looking for me. So there's that as well. So it's just, it's nice, you know, there's a lot of positive change and a few negative changes as well.

Why/What inspired you to set your sights on winning a world record? It couldn’t have been easy. What challenges did you face in preparing for it?

I just honestly felt like it was time because, again, I have had thoughts about it a while back, and I knew that I wanted to do something out of the ordinary; I wanted to push forward my limits and my boundaries; and I also wanted to be known for something that was very In line with what I do. It was important for me to be regarded and respected in my field, which is the culinary industry as well. This was one sure way to actually express that aspect of myself and just show my tenacity and, basically, my craftsmanship as well. That's one reason, obviously, and there are lots of other reasons that I did this, but in terms of challenges, putting the team together, we had a lot of physical challenges with the space because we built a functional kitchen with drainage and running water on a stage that wasn't meant for that, so I think we had different challenges in terms of production, in terms of basically putting the entire event itself together. For me, during the events or during the attempt, just fighting through my inner demons—anxiety, fear of failure, physical exhaustion, and just pushing my body through its natural limits was definitely very challenging, and being

scared of letting people and yourself down as opposed to it motivating you to do more almost takes away from the energy that you have, so that was definitely a struggle as well. I guess that's where preparation comes in because, again, it took years to actually prepare for it. I prepared physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally, and it took a lot of money. So that's where all that preparation now pretty much came into play, and definitely, the support from my family, friends, and Nigerians and Africans, in general, came into play to help me push through that.

When did your love for cooking start? Do you have a standout memory of anything that set you on this path (cooking, food content creation)?

I can't say for certain when exactly I started to really love cooking, but I just need to know that it's something that I've always done since I was a child, and I just so happen to be really good at it, so it's like the way people can sing, that's kind of how I can cook. I mean, I can sing too, but *breaks into a laugh*, yeah, it's just something that comes very naturally to me, So it never really feels like work, even when I'm super exhausted. One of my biggest ways to show someone that I care for them is to make something for them. So it’s just something I've always really liked to do.

You mentioned at some point that you wanted to be “taken seriously." What experience(s) made you think this Yes, I mean, I won't say one; it wasn't a onetime experience like, “ Oh, I went through this." No, it wasn't a one-time experience. It was just more about understanding the industry that I have found myself in and knowing that again. I was growing as a person, so obviously my goals are evolving and I want to do more, and let's be honest, I don't look like the conventional chef; quite a number of them are much older than I am, so I guess we have become so used

FOR SOME PEOPLE, IT'S JUST A GUINNESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT. BUT FOR ME, IT GOES BEYOND THAT BECAUSE I SAID SOMETHING. I WANT TO BE THE GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDER. AND I TOOK MY TIME. I KNOW HOW MUCH EFFORT IT TOOK, NOT JUST FROM ME BUT FROM EVERYBODY, EVEN FROM NIGERIANS IN GENERAL.

to this idea of what a cook or a chef looks like. To now come and say, Oh, I do this, and I'm really good at it, and I have something to offer, you actually have to go the extra mile to let people know that yeah, “this is what I'm about,” you understand. So it was just all that, and I remember being passed up for a speaking engagement just because of how I looked, and I guess they were just on the assumption that that was all and there's probably nothing up there and it's not right, but just going by how our culture and how society has been with the perception, I can understand where that comes from, and that's why it was even more important to me to constantly prove that it goes beyond that. You can't just look someone in the face and say, This is all they are. People are changing, growing, evolving, and learning, and there's always something to offer. There's always something upstairs if you give that person a chance.

What have been the highs and lows of this record-breaking cooking season for you? There are so many highs just coming out—I wouldn't call it a triple but more like a hundred percent increase in my social media—having people that are willing to fight for me, that care for me, that try to understand me, that support me—that’s very amazing. You know, there's getting to work with brands that I've looked up to, admired, or respected, and there's getting to work with people that I have respected as well. Just seeing an opportunity for my business and my brand to grow—those are definitely highs. Then for the lows of navigating through becoming a celebrity or becoming someone who is well known or popularly known, It can be a bit of a struggle in terms of just now understanding and accepting that you are no longer just representing yourself, but it's important that you make a conscious effort, not necessarily to change who you are, but to be more careful in terms of understanding that things can be taken out of context and trying to articulate yourself. It's a bit more stressful and is a bit more difficult now to be able to do that because I'm well aware that I am no longer Hilda of before But I am Hilda, the record breaker.

What inspires you?

I don't want to lie, the fear of being broke, the fear of being broke definitely inspires me. There's a kind of lifestyle that I want to live, there's a life I want for my children, my parents, and my family in general, and I feel like it's my responsibility to make that happen. like nobody's going to make it happen for me so that definitely pushes me. Another thing is just seeing how hard my mom has worked to get us to the point that we are because she was very intentional about all her kids in terms of how we schooled and everything, so she sacrificed a lot of things and deprived herself of a lot of things when she was much younger just to make sure that we had the best of education, so I feel like it's important that I'm able to reward her when she can still enjoy what that reward is so that definitely pushes me. My brother definitely inspires me as well; he's a very content, very honest, very driven person, and he's very comfortable with who he is. So that sort of pushes me to remain true to myself in whatever happens or whatever changes around me or with me. So there are quite a number of things, but top of my list is my fear of being broke.

What would you say, or how do you feel about being an inspiration to many people? It feels good, but it also comes with a lot of

pressure. I definitely have to be honest about that because it's just the way Christianity is where you can just put all your problems on God and expect that you know he's going to just solve everything for you It's just easier to say, oh, I'm looking up to this person so whatever this person does is fine, like, Oh, if this person can't do this, this means I can't do it, too, so that means that it comes with a lot of pressure on me because now I know that there are people looking up to me and that means I need to constantly show them that you know what these things are possible And you can push through your limits. You can push through whatever barriers are set in front of you, whether by yourself or by society.

To achieve whatever it is you want to achieve, being able to do that every single day, every waking day, definitely comes with a lot of pressure.

What do you think this win means for women who are perceived a certain way because of how they look/dress?

A lot of people tend to believe what people say about them, but that's not me because I believe what's in my head and not what you say about me, so just being able to do this I feel like I've gotten the opportunity to show people that it goes beyond what people say and what they can see and it's important that the responsibility is on you to actually prove that that's not the case, I get that you don't need to do anything to prove to anybody but again, it feels very gratifying for someone that has said to me “Oh she can't be on this panel because she looks like this” to now come back and say they want me to do this speaking engagement or that speaking engagement is definitely very gratifying to actually have that feeling. So everyone pretty much owes it to themselves, and maybe seeing me do it would motivate them to know, Yeah, I can do it too, like they can do it as well, and I just want women to understand that you don't have to look a certain way to have a lot of value to offer or a lot of things to bring to the table. If you have a lot to offer, it goes beyond how you look.

You have a bit of work experience and didn’t just “blow up…”

2018, 2017. I was doing a breakfast segment on a TV show, but that wasn't enough, and I needed to work. So, I got a second job. And that job was at a breakfast company. It was called Breakfast King. So, they just got a contract to make lunch for an insurance company. I think there were about 150 or 200 staff. The owner of the company was my friend. He reached out to me and said, Is this something you can do? And I said yes. So,

I used to call it lunch division manager. Every time I had a new job, I had a fancy name for it. But primarily, my job was to cook. So, I was cooking for like 200 people every day. There was a menu. So, maybe today it would be like jollof rice, coconut rice, or afang soup. So, I would make the food. I would follow them to the island because we were in Surulere at the time. So, I would go to the island, and I would serve the food. Like sharing the food. (It was Linkage Assurance). They still know me. Some of them came for the cookathon. Then I would come back and go to the market.

I PUSHED MYSELF, AND I BELIEVED THAT IT WAS MY DREAM. I PUSHED MYSELF, AND IT WAS MY DEDICATION TO IT AND MY WILLINGNESS TO INVEST IN IT THAT PROMPTED OTHER PEOPLE TO JUMP ON THAT DREAM AS WELL. SO, IF YOU BELIEVE THAT THIS IS YOUR DREAM AND IT'S WORTH FIGHTING FOR, THEN, HONESTLY, FIGHT FOR IT.

So, I would be up at 3 a.m. to cook. Then I would go and do my show because it was a breakfast show. So, in the morning, I would do my show, come back, and go to the island. So I did that for about a year. Then I got the opportunity to have my show on Pop Central TV.

The “Dine On A Budget” show So, when I was doing that show, I remember saying I couldn't afford the house. And a lot of people said I was using the poverty narrative. But what it meant was that I had quit my other job on the TV station at the breakfast company. Pop Central was on the island. It was a live show. It was every week. I didn't have a place to stay because where I was staying prior to this was owned by the TV station that I was working for. So, I used to come to Lagos, do the show, and go back to Abuja.

I couldn't afford a place on the island then. So, my producer at the time ended up becoming my closest friend. One day, I was rushing to leave the station. And she asked, Why am I always rushing out? And I told her, I don't have anywhere to stay, and I have to go back to Abuja. Because I won't be able to sleep here. I don't have anywhere to sleep. She was like, Come to my house. We weren't even friends at the time. We had known each other for two months. She was primarily my producer. I stayed with her for three months until I was able to save up enough to get my first apartment. So, while I was doing that show, I got a job as an offline store manager for a

fashion retail company. So, I was simultaneously doing the live show as well. I was still trying to act too. I remember acting. I was in one movie. A multi-channel silent factory movie was called Dream Chaser. I auditioned and got the role. I remember my boss telling me that if I was going to do that movie, I should just quit my job. So I was sneaking around. I was saying I wasn't feeling fine. I wouldn't come to work. So, I could go on set to shoot. My brother was the assistant director. He tried to make sure that I would do my scenes. And go back to work. So, I did that for another year. Eventually, I decided that I couldn't continue like this. Let me start this food business. My brother and my friend Evelyn told me that I should take this food business seriously. I used to cook. I didn't have a page. My friends would tell their friends that Hilda is a very good cook. You can order from her. I didn't have a kitchen. I would go to their house with my friend, who recommended me to them, just for safety. I would cook there. I would make the food for them. They would pay me. Then I would leave. I was doing that. I was saving up. Eventually, I got a few things, like foodstuff and kitchenware, and then I started. It was around the lockdown period. That was when I started. When I started, I used to post. Even the food that I make for my friends. I would post it on my page. My brother and I were living together. He would be hyping the food. If you go to my page, you will see the videos. He is talking about the food. Little by little, my page started to grow. I used to share recipes there too. In 6 months or so, I saved up. My brother and I put money together. We moved to a much bigger apartment. It had a nice kitchen. I could now afford to attend to more customers. I just kept building this business from there. Then I started my cooking career. I did a couple of cooking classes.

I had around 30 students. I charged 15,000 Naira for the class. I was happy to share the knowledge I had. Eventually, from there, it just kept growing. If I am going to be selling to single people, I have to open a restaurant. I started saving up to open a restaurant. That is how I opened Amiko's by Hilda. I started saving up to open a restaurant. I am so happy. When I opened Amiko's by Hilda, I already had around 1,000 students. I think I have already trained over 1,000 students. A lot of my students came.

The celebrities that used to come to my show came as well. When people say that I know a lot of celebrities, I say that I don't just know the celebrities.

When I had the cooking show, I used to DM them. I remember I DM-ed P-Square. When the cooking show was happening, he saw my DM and said, I saw it.

I DM-ed Nse Ikpe Etim and said, I would like you to come to my show. She came to my show. That was my first encounter with her. I invited her. I was so fortunate that she agreed to come. She came for the show. She was very happy. She liked the food. When people came to the show, they really liked the food. That was when I realized that I could cook.

Let’s talk about your right-hand chef, Chef Sunny...

Chef Sunny wasn't supposed to be the only person assisting me. The culinary team consisted of over 30 people. I had over 30 chefs and kitchen assistants. They were supposed to assist me. I had a lot of fear and anxiety that first day.

Chef Sunny was the person I started with. He is the head chef at the restaurant. He already knows how I like everything prepped. He knows how most of my recipes go. I had already gotten comfortable with him. He was very encouraging and helpful. He was talking to me. When I started being scared, he said, “Don't worry, you can do it”. If he was allowed to cook, he was willing to get into it as well. I remember crying in the caravan. I said I can't do this. I need him. I don't want anyone else. I said they should go and ask him if he could stay longer. The fact that you dream that you have to stand for 4 days doesn't mean other people need to stand for 4 days with you. They asked him, If he still wants you there, do you think you can do a couple more hours? He said, Yes, he is going to stay there until whenever. That was how I went back. Eventually, I ended up having just three assistants. Chef Sunny, Chef Lola, and Chef Chizuru from Rent-A-Chef were the only three people I ended up being comfortable with. The only reason one of them had to leave was because it was clear that he was physically exhausted and tired, but he still wouldn't leave. He still wanted to be there. I didn't have access to my phone. He didn't have access to his phone. It's not like he knew that he was blowing up.

Lola did not know that. I guess the people that were on the stage with us knew because they had access to Instagram and Twitter. None of us knew what was going on. It was just sharing. It was very genuine. It was the same way during the dry run. It's just that during the dry run, I had more than one assistant because that was the dry run. They were prepping in the other kitchen, and there was nobody standing there with me. They were just bringing what I needed. But again, this is not a dry run. This is the main thing. Honestly, he was so helpful. Not just him, but the three of them. The reason why I was comfortable with three of them being there Lola had actually been my procurement person. She does all our buying and shopping. She had gone to the market four times in four days. There were a lot of things we had to buy. The cost of ingredients

was running into millions of Naira. It was one person handling the entire purchase. It was a lot of things. We had to order a few things. She did all of those market runs and was still willing to stay on stage. I remember her holding me up when the cramps (I was on my period the whole cook-a-thon) got really bad. When they came to tell me that the food was not tasty, she was the one they sent to come and tell me that they were not really eating it. Maybe you need to taste it.

Chef Chizuru is also a very neat cook. That's the thing. I think that's what's most important to me. They were cleaning and working, and they just knew. Sometimes, before I even ask, I'm asking what I'm cooking next. They had an understanding. They studied the menu that we had created. They were working with it. They were so driven. Oh my God! Angels in human form that's it. I always say that they attract what you want. I'm saying that's what they love. Lola has worked with me for over two years. That's why they felt that they would be able to do that.

For anyone who is trying to find their waylooking up to you, what tips can you share with them?

So I say this to my students a lot that 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.

Plans for the future?

The Cook-a-thon being, like, a party that you don't have to pay for is something that I want to try to retain. So, that's something, because I feel like the more people get to try Nigerian food, the more people want to learn how to make it, and the more people want to even try these recipes. Because I feel like Nigerian food is really good food. And the beauty of Nigerian food or Nigerian recipes is that you can tweak them, adjust them, and even with other foreign recipes, you can always add a Nigerian touch to them without losing their essence and all that. I intend to do that. I'm working on a book as well. And with that book, I intend to tell different stories—basically, things about my childhood— that translate to a particular recipe. So, it just gives a larger understanding of me as a person. And, you know, I feel like once you read things like that, it will prompt you to want to even try them, make them, and experience them yourself.

So, in any little way that I can, I already teach people to cook. And that's something that I intend to keep doing. it would further drive conversations about Nigerian cuisine, and stuff in general. I understand and appreciate that I have started a trend.

We have seen a lot of other Cook-a-thon/ attempts after yours. How do you feel about them?

You know, in AMVCA, they will say they will award you the Trailblazer award because you started something, you started a movement. And for people to want to do this, it means this was so successful that it prompted them to see that, okay, I can try it too, and I can do it too. And that's a good thing for me. That's commendable, in my opinion. Right? But then, on the other hand, is seeing how much work I put in and how much effort and how many people have actually come together to do this and do it properly. No one has a monopoly on these things.

Because I'm a huge advocate for what's worth doing, it's worth doing well. And because I really like to share what I know and what I've learned, I'm looking for somebody who is actually very keen on doing this and who asks the right questions. I remember when I wanted to do the cook-a-thon, I strongly considered DM-ing the Indian chef. The only reason why

I didn't DM her was just because I didn't think she was going to respond to me. And then just even seeing how she responded to the cooka-thon and how she was very supportive and friendly. Now we follow each other. I would comment on her post. I now feel like if I had actually DMed her, maybe she would have responded.

Because for me, I would happily ask her questions like, You've had this thing for five years, could you please tell me the things you encountered? This is what I think you should look out for. And that's honestly something that I'm happy to share. That's information that I'm happy to share. But then the human part of me is, Oh, it took me this long to do this thing. Like, you know, thinking that you can just wake up in the morning and do it, I don't think you fully understand the greatness or how powerful this is.

For some people, it's just a Guinness World Record attempt. But for me, it goes beyond that because I said something. I said, Oh, I want to be the Guinness World Record holder. And I took my time. I know how much effort it took, not just from me, but from everybody, even from Nigerians in general. Because it was the attention that Nigerians gave it that made the results come out as fast as it did. Because it just garnered so much interest, right? And if I didn't do my due diligence, and I didn't do the right thing, and if God wasn't on my side, it wouldn't have been this successful. And I feel like if you're going to put in that much of your physical strength, and put your life on the line like that, you owe it to yourself to do it properly. Right? So, again, I can understand where a lot of the backlash comes from. Especially when people compare what other people are doing to what I'm doing. I know that by opening yourself up to comparisons, say, if you want to do something that somebody else has done, especially in such a short period of time, you're opening yourself up to a lot of comparisons. And that's something that you need to accept and understand that, you know what, I'm doing this thing within one month, two months, three months of this person doing this and being successful at it. A lot of people are going to come for me and you need to understand that and you need to accept it. And if your motive for doing it is right, like, it's true to you, run with it and just, do what you need to do. Because in truth, I was not waiting for anybody to come and tell me, Yes, Hilda, go. You know, like, you got it, you got this. I pushed myself, and I believed that it was my dream. I pushed myself, and it was my dedication to it and my willingness to invest in it that prompted other people to jump on that dream as well. So, if you believe that this is your dream and it's worth fighting for, then, honestly, fight for it. Because, again, I don't have a monopoly on attempts. The fact that I've attempted it doesn't mean every other person should back off. Like, Oh, Hilda did it. So, I feel like the only thing might be, oh, another person might be concerned that I may not have the resources to be able to do it at the scale that Hilda did. But that's not me as a person. That's how I wanted to do it. What is most important is that you do it following the guidelines in the book so that after standing for whatever number of hours you've stood for, sat for, or cooked for, it's worth it at the end of the day. For me, it went beyond just recognition. I really wanted to get the plaque. I really, I know they asked me in interviews, and I'm like, yeah, I'll be fine; I'm already a winner. But in truth, it's like, This is why I started doing this thing. That's why we were so excited when we got the approval. So, I really wanted it. So, it just makes all these efforts a lot more worthwhile. That's not the only thing that makes your efforts valuable, but it definitely makes them even more valuable. So, I just feel like you owe it to yourself to do it right.

What Flowers To Give For DIFFERENT OCCASIONS II

BY DANIELLE ANENE

This is a continuation of our discussion about giving flowers as gifts for various occasions. Often, we choose to give flowers because they can convey messages that words alone sometimes cannot express. As we discussed in our previous episode, flowers serve as the perfect messengers for unspoken sentiments. In case you're interested in gifting flowers to someone, here are the meanings behind some popular blooms.

1. Lillies

Lilies are elegant and graceful flowers that are commonly used for various occasions. White lilies are a popular choice for weddings as they symbolize purity and innocence. Pink lilies, on the other hand, are often associated with prosperity and abundance, while yellow lilies are known to convey happiness and joy.

2. Carnations

Carnations are incredibly versatile flowers that come in a wide array of colours. Specifically, red carnations have long been associated with love and admiration, whereas pink carnations symbolize gratitude and appreciation. If you're looking to convey purity and innocence, white carnations are the perfect choice, while yellow carnations represent friendship and joy.

3. Sunflowers

Sunflowers, with their bright and cheerful disposition, have the ability to brighten up anyone's day. They are commonly linked to feelings of happiness and positivity, making them an excellent selection for occasions like birthdays or getwell-soon messages.

4. Tulips

Tulips are exquisite and refined flowers that have a multitude of uses for various occasions. Specifically, red tulips can symbolize love and passion, while pink tulips are representative of affection and care. Yellow tulips can convey feelings of happiness and joy, whereas white tulips embody purity and forgiveness.

In summary, flowers have the ability to communicate powerful messages. By carefully selecting the appropriate flowers and colours, you can effectively convey these messages. Therefore, when you have a special occasion, be mindful when choosing your flowers and let them serve as your voice.

Common SKINCARE Mistakes To Avoid

BY DANIELLE ANENE

W1. Using the wrong Product

As previously mentioned, many individuals mistakenly use the wrong products to address their skin concerns. While these products may receive positive reviews, it is important to choose ones that specifically target your unique skin issues. For instance, if you believe that using aloe vera gel will brighten your skin, you will be disappointed as it may not yield the desired results. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly research and select products that are tailored to effectively address your specific skin care needs.

2. Not considering your skin type

Using products that are not suitable for your specific skin type can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your skin. If you have extremely dry skin, it is crucial to choose products that can provide the necessary hydration boost. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, opting for lightweight products is essential. By selecting skincare products tailored to your specific needs, you can make a noticeable difference in the overall condition of your skin.

3. Not reapplying sunscreen

Using sunscreen once a day is not enough; it should be reapplied approximately every 2 hours. Fortunately, there are now fantastic sunscreen sprays available that can easily be sprayed onto your face to provide sun protection.

4. Inconsistency

Lack of consistency can hinder the effectiveness of skincare products. It is important to understand that these products require time to show results. One common mistake individuals make is using a product sporadically for just a week and then giving up on it because they do not see any immediate results. This impatience leads them to quickly move on to the next product in search of a quick outcome.

5. Unhealthy lifestyle choice

Leading an unhealthy lifestyle may not seem like a skincare mistake at first. However, it's important to note that habits such as smoking, consuming excessive amounts of junk food,

processed foods, or sugar, and drinking excessive alcohol can negatively impact your skin. No matter how much skincare you use, these habits can prevent you from achieving nice, healthy-looking skin. Remember, the skin is an organ that reflects the overall condition of your body.

6. Not taking your make up off properly Using makeup removing wipes alone is insufficient. Avoid waiting until you are

extremely fatigued, to the point where you don't even feel like getting out of bed. Make sure to completely eliminate all remnants of makeup and then cleanse your face thoroughly.

7. Using abrasive exfoliants

Instead of using salt and sugar exfoliants that might be too harsh, it is recommended to opt for salicylic and glycolic acid chemical peels instead.

Reasons Your Home Needs To Go Through

A DECLUTTER BIANNUALLY

BY DANIELLE ANENE

If you find yourself storing your clothes in another room due to the lack of space in your room or if you have spare space in your kids' room, this is for you. Have you ever walked into the wardrobe and felt overwhelmed, thinking "I have no clothes; I don't know what to wear"? Don't worry; we've got you covered. If you're a fashion lover or work in showbiz, you may find yourself accumulating a lot of clothes. Letting go of these beautiful pieces can be challenging. That's why this article will share the advantages of decluttering, which will give you a nudge towards decluttering your wardrobe at least twice a year.

REDUCES THE MENTAL STRESS OF KEEPING TOO MANY CLOTHES

This may not be an immediately apparent advantage, but much like how organizing and cleaning can help people destress, decluttering also contributes to a clearer mind. While you may temporarily miss the clothes you are giving away, the astonishing clarity you experience afterwards is truly remarkable, leading you to declutter your wardrobe more frequently once you begin.

IMPROVES YOUR CLOTHING SELECTION PROCESS

Having a large selection of clothes can be overwhelming when it comes to choosing what to wear. With so many options, it takes up extra time and adds to the decisionmaking process. On the other hand, decluttering your wardrobe frees you from this confusion and provides clarity about your choices. You'll be able to make faster decisions about what to wear because you have a clear understanding of what you own.

CREATE SPACE FOR YOUR NEW ADDITIONS

Because we understand that you enjoy acquiring new clothes, it is highly recommended that you declutter on a regular basis to get rid of any old clothes that you no longer need. By doing so, you will have the necessary space for the new clothes you will be adding to your collection. This approach allows you to stay in line

with your fashion preferences without feeling overwhelmed by an excessive number of garments in your closet.

ENCOURAGES FREQUENT DECLUTTERING

When you declutter your wardrobe, an overwhelming sense of freedom washes over you, leaving behind any desire to return to your former state. By donating or selling clothes that no longer fit you or match your personal style, you create a curated collection of garments that truly resonate with you—the ones you'll actually cherish and reach for in the morning. Items that were previously deemed satisfactory for your closet no longer hold any

value in your life. You will discover yourself gravitating towards higher quality items, and, as a result, your closet will see a significant reduction in the number of incoming belongings.

When starting your decluttering process, there are several key factors to consider. First, you should look for outfits that you haven't worn in the last three months. Additionally, take note of any clothes that no longer fit you or match your current style. It's also important to identify outfits that don't suit your daily activities anymore. By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can effectively streamline your wardrobe.

Broccoli WAYS TO SPICE UP YOUR

BY DANIELLE ANENE

There is a common misconception that eating healthy is either expensive or boring. While it's true that some vegetables require an acquired taste to be enjoyed, their sweetness is not the only factor. Take broccoli, for example. It can be perceived as bland, and the smile on your face may just be your way of convincing yourself that it's healthy. Some adults find it painful to plate their meals with broccoli. In this edition, we will share five ways to prepare your broccoli, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing on your plate. By exploring different methods, we aim to turn ordinary broccoli into an enjoyable and interesting element of your meal, ultimately transforming it into a fun dining experience for you.

1. OVEN ROASTED BROCCOLI

For this method, you will only need four additional ingredients: salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. If you enjoy spiciness, you may also want to add a little bit of red pepper flakes. Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, toss 4 cups of broccoli florets with 1 tbsp of olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt and pepper. Roast until the florets begin to char. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and serve warm.

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, bursting with vitamins and minerals. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and E, along with numerous antioxidants and fiber, broccoli stands as one of the most beneficial vegetables you can include in your meal. Transforming it into a rich and creamy soup would be an excellent choice. To make this delicious dish, your main ingredients would consist of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil, garlic, crushed ground cumin,vegetable stock, broccoli broken into florets, spinach leaves, tinned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained,lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. Heat the oil in a medium pan and add the garlic and cumin. Sauté over medium heat for 1 minute. Add the stock, coconut milk, and broccoli to a pot, and cook for 10 minutes or until the broccoli is soft. Next, add in the spinach, cannellini beans, lemon juice, parsley, and nutritional yeast flakes (if desired). Allow the spinach to wilt for a couple of minutes. Then, use a food processor, blender, or hand-held stick blender to process the soup until it becomes smooth. Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.

This detox salad incorporates cabbage and broccoli as its foundation, both of which are rich in fiber and effective in eliminating toxins and bacteria from your body. Additionally, cucumber provides a hydrating effect on your skin, while avocado benefits both your skin and hair. Finally, the inclusion of grapes adds the perfect touch of natural sweetness to this salad. The remaining ingredients include pistachios, lemon juice, virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Begin by mashing half of an avocado with a fork, then mix in the lemon juice and olive oil. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Next, combine the first six ingredients in a mixing bowl and generously coat them with the avocado lemon dressing.

This fritter is known to be a wonderful appetizer and a satisfying afternoon snack that will help you curb hunger. To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients: chopped steamed broccoli, almond flour, eggs, nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, garlic cloves, and olive oil. Begin by cutting the florets off the steamed broccoli and chopping them into small pieces. Cut the stalks into small, thin slices. In a food processor, combine the almond flour, eggs, nutritional yeast, dijon mustard, and garlic. Mix well, add in the chopped broccoli, and stir through. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan on medium heat. Once hot, use a ladle to spoon the batter into the pan to form small patties. Allow the fritters to cook for 3 minutes until lightly golden, and then flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes on the other side. Serve warm with a lemon wedge.

Have you ever considered trying a salad with broccoli as the main ingredient? Despite some people's skepticism towards broccoli, you might find this particular salad quite enjoyable, especially when it is complemented by an Asian salad dressing. To make this salad, gather broccoli heads, chopped scallions, toasted salted cashews, and sesame seeds. For the Asian dressing, you will need almond butter (or cashew butter), garlic cloves, peeled ginger, honey, lime juice, sesame oil and coconut aminos (or tamari/ soy sauce).

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut the heads of broccoli into small, bite sized florets. Add the broccoli to the boiling water and leave to cook for exactly 1 minute (not longer; you don't want them to be mushy!). After 1 minute, remove the broccoli and place it in a bowl filled with ice and water. Once the broccoli is cool, drain and place in a large bowl.

In a blender or nutribullet container, combine all of the ingredients for the dressing and blend until completely smooth. In a bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cashews, scallions, and sesame seeds and toss in the dressing. Serve!

2. BROCCOLI COCONUT CREAM SOUP

4. BROCCOLI FRITTERS

3. A DETOX SALAD

5. ASIAN BROCCOLI SALAD

We hope this method of eating broccoli brings you as much pleasure as it did for us digging it out.