Sutra Magazine 004: CEO EDITION

SUTRA

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CONTENT 002.

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Contributors

Nunu Eats

6 essential skincare products

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Letter from Chis + Coco

Motee NYC

CC Playlist

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Affirmations

GĂŤto

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Fisayo Longe

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Dear SG

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Iliandra Balentina

Chisara Odigbo

Anoela cards

Posts we Love

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Femme Africa

Tsemaye Jemide

Coco Salako

Tone with Tobi

BUTORS

CONTRI

COCO + CHIS Anu Akande | Nunu Eats Ayomide Dokunmu | Femme Africa Fisayo Longe Iliandra Balentina Leona Adesanya | Aneola Cards Omotola Omolayole | Motee NYC Samantha Adebayo | Gëto Subomi Ajibola | DearSg Tejiri Arigbodi | SkincareByTej Tobi Ojora | ToneWithTobi Tsemaye Jemide + YOU SUTRA FAM

MARCH 2020

THE CEO EDITION

Hi Sutra Fam, Welcome to the fourth edition of the Sutra Digital Magazine. We are really excited about this issue not only because it's our anniversary edition but also because of the incredibly inspiring women that are featured; all in different fields and killing it.

What we hope you take away from this edition is that nothing is easy nor perfect. Everything and everyone is a work in progress and we're all just here trying to navigate this thing called life. So it's okay to stumble along the way.

What is important is that you get back up and keep improving on yourself with each new day that comes.

Love always, CC x

FISAYO LONGE

ON HABITS THAT BRING HER PEACE...

PLACING LESS WEIGHT AND IMPORTANCE ON ALL THE VOICES THAT ARE NOT THE ONE IN MY HEAD. ON SOMETHING SHE WAS SO CLEAR/CERTAIN ABOUT BUT NOW WITH TIME, HER THOUGHTS ON IT HAVE EVOLVED...

THAT IS SUCH A GOOD QUESTION. I REALLY DON’T THINK I HAVE EVER BEEN SO CERTAIN ABOUT ANYTHING. I OPERATE FROM A PLACE OF ‘I KNOW NOTHING’ AND I LIKE FLUIDITY. MY THOUGHTS ON MANY THINGS SUCH AS RELIGION, LOVE, SEXUALITY HAVE EVOLVED GREATLY BUT THEY WERE NOT RIGID TO BEGIN WITH. ON WHAT SHE LEFT BEHIND IN THE LAST DECADE AND WHAT SHE BROUGHT INTO THE NEW DECADE...

I LEFT BEHIND SHARING MY TIME AND MY BODY WITH MEN WHO DID NOT DESERVE EVEN TO HAVE MY PHONE NUMBER. I BROUGHT IN SELF-BELIEF GREATER THAN I HAVE EVER KNOWN.

KAI KAI KAI

The growth of Kai since its launch in 2016 has been so beautiful to watch. How has your interest in fashion changed over the years and why is fabric such an important element to you?

Thank you! My interest in fashion naturally has evolved to be more business savvy. So rather than going solely from ‘what is missing from my closet/what do I want to wear?’, my approach is now much more community-based and I involve the women who wear Kai a lot more in the decisions that are made.

Fabric is important because it’s the foundation of the item - it determines the quality and how long the clothing lasts. For me, the goal is always to create items that people can wear over and over again.

What inspired your new collection?

Volume and African inspired prints. This collection has been hugely affected by the pandemic though so it is unlikely to be released as one big collection

Will you ever branch out with Kai and maybe release other items apart from clothing?

Yes, absolutely! I would love to explore every single thing that resonates with my soul in this lifetime and I will do that for Kai also.

What made you choose to go to Cappadocia, particularly, to source fabric for KAI ?

I didn’t go to Cappadocia to source fabric. I went to Istanbul to source fabric and like to use the opportunity to go to Cappadocia as it’s one of my favourite places and just an hour away. I saw that some of my fave brands have ‘Made in Istanbul’ on the label so I figured it must have good fabric. I did my research and online and found that it did.

CC: FL: CC: FL: CC: FL: CC: FL: CC: FL: CC: FL:

What’s your favorite outfit you’ve worn this year?

Definitely the long sleeve high neck Kai print mesh dress (which doesn’t have a name yet) that I wore to the BAFTA’s rising star awards party. I felt incredible.

What’s your fave Kai piece?

This is such a tough question. I love the dress mentioned above. But I also really love the Beebeeta dress - it is just so sexy!

3 Women that inspire you?

There are so many. Rihanna, Sara Blakely, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. I really love women who don’t conform and are not afraid to ruffle feathers.

Favourite brand collaboration?

I really loved working with Aldo and experiencing their brand at their head office in Montreal, and also Nike.

What do you think your biggest personal success has been so far?

Trusting and believing in myself, and not being afraid to present exactly as I am and voice my opinions.

What do you think your biggest professional success has been so far?

Kai. The way women feel when they were Kai. For sure.

What designer are you currently loving? | Richard Quinn - really loving the print overload.

One way you practice self discipline? | Going to Barry’s Bootcamp even though I hate (really love) it

What's your favourite season ? | Spring - full of hope and new beginnings! Hot in the sun, cold in the shade - best of both worlds.

Favourite accessory? | My new large boyega arco bag. Everything fits in it and it’s just so big and well made

If you had to name your biggest phobia, what would it be? | Getting crushed in between two red buses on Oxford street Leather or Lace? | Wow, that is so so tough. I say leather.

What are 3 items you always have in your bag? | Carmex, anti-bag wipes, bank card Last Book you read? | Shoe Dog by Phil Knight Where do you feel most at home? | At my flat in London - it’s my fave place in the world

18 Being a Nigerian Woman, how difficult or easy has it been being your true self and doing/wearing what makes you comfortable?

It’s been very difficult especially because sometimes, the people you love the most will be uncomfortable with the person that you are and the fact that you do not share the same fears of public perception and desperation to keep up appearances that they do. I care a lot less these days though. The worst is over I’ve made it clear that I am my own person and anyone who can’t deal has to figure out what they would like to do about it because it really is not my problem.

We absolutely love that you share financial and career advice with your followers. Why do you feel it’s important to be transparent about different aspects of life with your followers?

Because people spend too much time feeling that others are superhuman and don’t realise the true power that they have to achieve all of their wildest dreams. I like to remind people that everything they need is within them and just remind them that even the people that look like they have got it together are winging it/struggling.

ILIANDRA BALENTINA N A T U R A L

H A I R

&

B E A U T Y

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE HAIR CARE BRAND AND WHY? OH, THAT'S DIFFICULT. ONLY 1 BRAND? THE BRANDS I'M CURRENTLY USING THE MOST ARE CURLS, CURLS DYNASTY, CAMILLE ROSE NATURALS, AND REDKEN.

WOULD YOU EVER CUT YOUR HAIR OFF AND GO BALD? I WOULD LOVE TO, BUT I'M NOT THE TYPE OF GIRL THAT DARES TO DO IT.. I LIKE TO PLAY IT SAFE..

HAIR TEXTURE: 3C MIXED WITH SOME 4C 'FINE'/SOFTER IN THE FRONT & THE BACK TENDS TO BE DRY WITH A DIFFERENT PATTERN FAVORITE PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLE: WEARING HER HAIR IN A BUN FAVORITE HAIR PRODUCT: CURLS LAVISHÂ CURLS MOISTURIZER TRIMS: TWICE A YEAR HEAT: ONLY USES A DIFFUSER DURING WINTER DAYS FAVOURITE NATURAL HAIR MOMENT: WHEN SHE DIED HER HAIR BLONDE

WHAT DOES WASH DAY CONSIST OF FOR YOU? I USUALLY DO WASH AND GO'S, WHICH WORKS BEST FOR ME. SHAMPOO, CONDITIONER AND I TRY TO DEEP CONDITION WEEKLY. I DETANGLE WHILE CONDITIONING MY HAIR. AFTER DEEP-CONDITIONING I MOSTLY USE 1 STYLING PRODUCT, A CREAM OR GEL.

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WE SEE THAT YOU DYED YOUR HAIR BLONDE! CAN YOU SHARE SOME TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BLEACHING ONE'S HAIR AND/OR DYING IT WHILST KEEPING IT HEALTHY? NEVER EVER DYE YOUR HAIR AT HOME WITHOUT KNOWING WHAT YOU'RE DOING. GET IT PROFESSIONALLY DONE AND TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR HAIR. BY TAKING GOOD CARE I MEAN, USING PRODUCTS THAT PROTECT COLOURED HAIR, DEEP CONDITIONING WEEKLY AND KEEPING YOUR HAIR MOISTURIZED.

HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR HAIR CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? I KNOW MORE ABOUT MY HAIR, PRODUCTS, AND STYLES THAT WORK HOW TO TAKE CARE OF IT. THROUGHOUTÂ THE YEARS I GAINED KNOWLEDGE OF PRODUCTS AND STYLES.

COCO SALAKO

Despite everything happening with COVID-19; from my last college semester ending abruptly to not knowing what's happening with my life post college, I'm still very excited and optimistic about this new year and decade. I've used this self-isolation time to practice healthy routines. I have more time now to be consistent with my skincare routine, haircare routine, journaling, working out (at home), & having meaningful conversations with the people I love. My two words for this year are 'Stronger' and 'Carefree'. By carefree I definitely don't mean nonchalant. After years of being an over-thinker, I'm focusing more on letting go and letting God. What will be, will be. I'm putting more effort into healing from buried traumas and numbing my emotions less - it's so important to be honest with yourself. Super excited to see how much I grow this year, all the things we will achieve with Sutra by CC and starting other personal endeavours. Cheers to paying more attention to what gives us a full body high and to planting our seeds there.

My advice to you all is to open your heart more - give more, love more and share more.

COCO'S 2020 FAVES TPH by Taraji 'Never Salty Sugar Scalp Scrub

$13.99

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner

$45.00

Bath & Body Works 'Eucalyptus Spearmint Candle

$14.50 $32.00

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Setting Powder Glossier Futuredew

$24.00

NUNU EATS

NUNU EATS

Surf or Turf Starters or Dessert Breakfast or Brunch Waffles or Pancakes Salad or Wrap Sweet or Savoury Ice Cream or Sorbet BBQ Sauce or Ketchup Pasta or Pizza Sweet Popcorn or Salt Popcorn

Anu Akande is a 21 year old student at the University of Warwick, who loves to document what she eats on her IG food page @nunueats. From eating at restaurants across Lagos, London & America to interviewing Chef Eros of Ile Eros, we sat down with the inquisitive foodie to talk everything food!

After a good year of posting on @nunueats as a private page for fun, Anu finally launched the page publicly in July of 2019 after a couple of her friends encouraged her to do so.

Boom, her love for food was born! Anu always liked cooking but never on a serious scale.

Before nunueats, she would not have called herself a foodie, and even now she doesn’t think she’d give herself the ultimate foodie stamp just yet. Nunueats has encouraged her to be less picky and to be more adventurous, so hopefully as the years go by she’ll have more exciting experiences with food and grow to love it more and more while continuing to have fun with it.

When asked how her relationship with food has changed over the years, Anu said “I’ve always loved food. I was a chubby kid growing up, if I liked something it would be my go to and I’d eat it nonstop. Over the years I’d say I have developed a healthy relationship with food, I try and be healthy as much as I can by eating my fruits and vegetables. I just make sure that my relationship with food is one that is healthy and one that makes me happy.”

Anu's favourite cuisine to eat and cook is Italian because that's what pasta and pizza fall under. If she was a finalist on a cooking show and had the opportunity to perfectly cook a 3 course meal, she would make honey sesame chicken as the starter, spaghetti bolognese for the main and crepes for dessert. Yum! In terms of going into culinary, although Anu likes cooking, she would rather stick to exploring if she likes different tastes and talking about her personal take on dishes.

What are some food trends you're currently loving?

I like the whole pancake drawing thing, but I guess that’s not a today thing lol What are your Top 5 Restaurants in Lagos?

Talindo steak house iLé Eros The House 788 on the sea Toasties ( their bao buns are amazing) What are your Top 5 Restaurants in London?

Delamina kitchen ( the seared tuna is amazing) Christophers ( love their pancakes) Wild Rice Harrys Ping Pong ( I love their duck spring rolls) Out of all the restaurants you've been to, which one had the best overall experience and why?

This is hard but I think a restaurant I went to in leamington spa , called Pizzeriah. The customer service was amazing.

Do you see yourself opening a restaurant in the future?

Never say never, but I think the chances are low. If so, I wouldn't do it alone, I'd surely be in a partnership.

"I just make sure that my relationship with food is one that is healthy and makes me happy"

Omotola Omolayole is a Fashion Communication and Design Journalism graduate of the Parsons School of Design. She is an advertising, brand marketing and communications enthusiast who also loves fashion and has her own shoe line "Motee NYC".

Her love for shoes started with her love for fashion. "Anyone that knows me knows i'm a huge fashion girl". According to her, she inherited this from her mum, who also inherited it from her mum. She tells us that they are two of the most stylish, gracious women she has ever come across. For Omotola, an outfit is never complete without a good pair of shoes. "You could look bomb oh, but if you now go and wear one raggedy shoe it just throws the whole outfit off balance". This is one of the reasons she decided to start Motee NYC, coupled with the fact that after her move from New York to Lagos, she struggled to find any stores with nice shoes that she liked.

In terms of the design and production process, all Motee NYC shoes are designed by her and manufactured in Europe. The process basically consists of her looking at current trends, brainstorming and creating designs with her own twist, sending the designs off to her manufacturers and eventually going into the factories to choose her leather swatches and materials. For most of her teenage years, Omotola lived in New York and so she tries to infuse a bit of the city's style into her designs and that's what really influences her design process. She also tells us that she runs a lot of her designs by her mum as she tries to create shoes that are wearable by the average stylish lady both in New York and Nigeria.

During the week, she works a 9-5 in a bank as a brand marketing and communications associate and she also does a lot of consultation work for different brands such as LancĂ´me Nigeria. She is currently working towards starting her own consulting agency with some friends so watch out for that.

What are your favourite style of heels to wear?

Haha, so the thing is, I am a big heels girl! it’s so funny because I'm pretty tall but I LOVE stilettos. You will always see me out on a night out with high, thin stilettos. I also love a good mule & some "strappy" heels. But stilettos are my go-to’s. I also like pointy shoes. I guess any type of heels really!

Have you always been a heels girl or did you go through a sneaker/flats phase?

Well, living in NY, it’ wasn't practical to wear heels everyday so I only ever wore heels on a night out, job meetings or maybe to school sometimes. But I was mostly in flats/sneakers day-in day-out. I actually plan to branch out into flats and sneakers later because I LOVE sneakers and they’re just so practical. Anyway, I didn't really have a “phase”, I just interchanged when needed. I am a sneakers girl when I want to run errands but on a night-out I'm 100% a heels girl.

Which one of your shoes would you say would compliment a graduation look the best?

So, it really depends on what style you’re going for on that day but personally, I would recommend the “Anna“. The “Anna” has clear sides, it's pointed and has patent leather. So that is a nice cross between formal & informal. I would also say maybe the “Carries” - one of my best sellers! Inspired by Manolo Blank & also Carrie Bradshaw’s favourite style of shoes. Lastly, the “Eva”. This is a real bad b*tch shoe, so if you’re really trying to look bad this is the one for you - I think this would go really nice with a grad look as well. Also, the blair is cute and pretty + strappy - so if you want to show your bomb pedicure this would be a good option.

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What's one thing entrepreneurship has taught you?

Hmm, I think you should ask me “what’s one thing entrepreneurship has NOT taught me” because it has really taught me E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G! In fact, the other day, I was looking at a list of the mistakes first time entrepreneurs make and I literally made ALL the mistakes on that list. I’d really say one thing it has taught me is not to procrastinate. I'm really bad at this and in business, everything has to be sharp, you can’t waste time and beat around the bush. It has also taught me how to deal with people. I worked in retail in New York at some point and it taught me a lot of communication and people skills which I am so grateful for. I worked retail at a fashion store and I was able to translate that into my entrepreneurship. I’ve learnt that you really need to be good with people and be able to communicate with them; what hey like, what they don’t like, what they want etc.

All in all, it has taught me to calm down & communicate with people in order to get what I want and make the sales. Secondly, it has taught me that no one is perfect, you can't get everything right on the first try. So, I’d say my biggest mistake, which is common with a lot of other entrepreneurs as well, was focusing on the little things that you think matter but don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. Not everything needs to be in place before you launch; you can start small and continue building along the way. That’s honestly the best thing!

Whose shoe closet would you love to raid?

AH! lmao. I’m a fashion girl so there’s LOADS of closets I’d love to raid.

First of all, I’d definitely say Rihanna’s shoe closet. Babe’s got S-H-O-O-O-E-S. She is one of my style icons, I love her so much & she’s a pisces as well.

Another person, surprisingly, is Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. She has amazing style; she’s always on trend and has the latest shoe designs & styles.

I’d actually also love to raid the shoe department in Barneys New York. They have some amazing shoes.

Would you consider branching out to other styles of shoes that aren't heels or even doing a men's line?

Yes as I mentioned earlier, I would branch out into flats/sneakers eventually. In terms of men’s shoes, definitely. I'm thinking of doing a collaboration with another friend of mine from Parson’s who designs men’s sneakers. So definitely a men’s line collaboration in future. Also, possibly with my brother who is really into fashion & the arts world. So that’s something that will definitely happen at some point.

Fun Fact about you?

Well, Im a party animal (if that counts). I don’t really look it because I’m quite quiet but I definitely love partying and having a good time. .

What's Authenticity to you?

Authenticity, to me, really is digging deep down into yourself and knowing who you are. So knowing your true soul and being truthful to yourself. When you’re truthful to yourself, you’re the best person you can be.

Authenticity is being yourself and being able to recognize yourself in all your beauty, all your flaws and actually being truthful to yourself. “This is me and this is who I am” and accepting who you are, changing the bad things and upping on the good things.

A Successful/Inspirational Woman that motivates you?

Wow! Where do i even start? There are so many.

First on my list is my mother. She is a super successful and inspirational woman that I look up to and who I'm motivated by.

One of my biggest cheerleaders and inspirations. She really is the best because she believes in our visions and she has never held my brother and I back from pursuing our dreams. She’s also an amazing interior designer and very successful in her field so she really inspires me and motivates me to do more in order to give her the best life when she’s older.

Amina Muaddi is another woman who I'm inspired by but not just because she owns a brand like mine. I dug deeper into her story and found out that she had a smaller shoe brand which she lost in the past because it wasn't successful. This makes me look up to her because she demonstrates that as entrepreneurs you might not always be successful on your first try but you can always bounce back and learn from previous mistakes. Today, she’s a huge force to be reckoned with so she has motivated me with my own brand and shown me that it doesn't matter if you make mistakes along the way.

A few other women who I'm also really inspired by are Bozoma Saint John and Ukonwa Ojo as well.

They just all motivate me to want to be better

Subomi Ajibola is a young black woman out here trying to be her dream girl. She loves good food - that she doesn’t have to cook herself, music and sleep - plenty of it. Her friends and family are her entire world. She’s deeply passionate about women and life giving conversations. She enjoys visiting new places and trying new things as long as it doesn’t involve heights. "No heights please!" Her favourite thing ever is to be gathered! Gathered with good people.

Why did you start Dear SG?

I started DSG for a few reasons; I’ve always enjoyed talking! If I wasn’t writing the names of 'noise makers', then I was top of the noise makers list at school. I don’t know why it was called noise making, a girl just loved a good chat haha. Also, I’ve always loved story telling and listening to stories. My fondest memories from school was telling stories to the class at break time. DSG is a combination of my childhood joys with a hint of maturity.

I also believe in the power of honest conversations and affirmations, which is all DSG embodies. As simple as these things seem, they have the ability to create communities, heal and propel people. It’s important to me that people are their authentic selves and most importantly know that they’re not alone.

Why a podcast and not a blog, youtube etc?

I chose the podcast route because when I decided this was something I wanted to do in 2017, I didn’t personally know anyone else who had a podcast and thought; great!

Why not! Also podcasts are particularly for audio content aka talking aka my super power. So it made sense to me. Also, I don’t enjoy writing as much as I do speaking so a blog woudln't have been a good idea. Also, do people still read blogs? I’m not mad at Youtube actually, I plan on including video content for DSG soon!

How do you practice self care?

I practice self care by taking ME time seriously. My friends know (hopefully respect lol) this. I prioritise time with myself as I would any other event. I enjoy exercising and finding new ways to keep my body in motion. I practice honest sharing. I.e saying how I feel when I feel it. Like saying I feel jealous, angry, tired…even if it’s hard to do. I practice honest sharing through prayer, journaling, therapy and talking to my friends. I don’t deprive myself of things I want. If Subomi wants it, Subomi finds a way to get it because Subomi deserves it. And of course DSG. I love that I get to do something I love.

The Harsh Truth About Growth...

The harsh truth about growth is that it can be painful and uncomfortable. It also often doesn’t look or feel like anything we imagined and that’s okay. Growth doesn’t happen all at once and end. It is ongoing. Growth is inevitable, so better to allow it happen gracefully than to experience it forcefully.

LIVING INTENTIONALLY

CHISARA ODIGBO

This has been my main focus this year. Particularly being intentional with the people I surround myself with. How you spend your time matters, but who you spend your time with also matters A LOT and the people that you surround yourself with have a huge impact.

Are the people in your circle engaging you, challenging you to be better, lifting you up, providing a support system? Are there toxic people that constantly bring you down, belittle you, make you feel inadequate, make you feel like your ideas are “silly”?

I’ve learned to value authentic, genuine people in my life. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed that the people that draw me in the most are those that are authentic in who they are, in the way they present themselves, and in the way they build a relationship with you – whatever the nature of that relationship may be.

Not everything or everyone deserves to continue on your journey with you.

There’s something so freeing in letting go of things that no longer serve your needs or bring you joy. It’s worth revisiting the relationships you maintain periodically.

Maybe that doesn’t mean completely cutting people out of your life, but maybe not giving them as much access to you. Maybe it’s recognizing the people that are toxic and letting go to allow healthy, authentic relationships thrive. Be intentional with who you surround yourself with this year.

If your environment contains negative people threatened by your choices, you’ll have a much harder time trying to make — let alone maintain—significant change.

It took a long time for me to truly dig deep and realize this and it has been the most freeing experience ever. I find myself engaging in more meaningful conversations and investing more time in projects that I would’ve never done before because I was “scared” or I got too comfortable with where I was even though it wasn’t where I wanted to be/should’ve been.

I am entirely surrounded by go-getters and I have a fire in me that can never burn out.

IBOT HTIW ENOT

Fitness has been a part of Tobi Ojora's life for as long as she can remember. Her mum is a fitness and nutrition specialist and as a kid, her parents put her in A LOT of sports clubs.

Tobi, however, fell in love with track and field, and did it competitively from the age of 8 and intended on doing it at college. The fitness enthusiast actually applied to college with the intention of being a heptathlete but right before her freshman year, she sustained an injury to her knee and that was the end of that dream! Starting ‘Tone With Tobi’ was almost like a coping mechanism for her as it kind of just filled a void. Over the years she acquired so much information about fitness, health and the body so she figured that she might as well share it !

Something that was surprising to hear was the fact that Tobi does not believe in dieting or restrictive eating. According to her "Cutting whole food groups out of your diet is not conducive to your health or your body composition in the long run so I would strongly advise against it. That being said I think low carb diets are pretty tame as you are not cutting them out completely, you are just reducing the amount. I would actually suggest trying carb cycling for a period of time as opposed to just low carb – for example you have low carb days 1-3, high carb day 4, low carb days 5-6 and high carb day 7. It helps you to lose fat, gain muscle, maintain peak physical performance AND maintain your metabolism so that you won’t reach a weight loss plateau. Either way, neither of these diets are designed for the long run. I believe in eating what makes you feel good – if you want cake, have it, but everything in moderation".

What's your pre-workout skincare routine?

I usually workout in the morning so I always always ALWAYS wash my face first to get rid of any oil residue from the previous night. I start with a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil and then I wipe my face with Pixi Beauty Vitamin-C Juice Cleanser, then I use the Pixi Beauty Vitamin-C Lotion and then Aveeno Face Sunscreen. I also NEVER wear make up to the gym. ** What's your favourite pre-workout snack & why?

When I have time I usually go for scrambled egg whites with spinach and tomato and coconut water. The coconut water helps to replenish any electrolytes that I might have lost during my workout, and the egg whites are a good source of protein for repairing the muscle tears. When I’m on the go, I like to grab a protein bar or a smoothie (tip: always check the ingredients first– a lot of companies pack their bars and smoothies full of sugar) My perfect Gym bag consists of....

Water, headphones, anti-bacterial wipes

I enjoy working out with resistance bands because…

They are the perfect weight/strength training equipment – perfect for weight training and very versatile Why did you start making personalized plans for people?

My friends would ask me all the time to make them plans so I started there, and then they told people who told more people and I figured that I might as well monetize my knowledge !

What's your workout routine like?

I workout 5 to 6 times a week, mainly in the morning because it’s when I’m the most active and it gets my metabolism going for the rest of the day. I focus on at least 2 muscle groups in one session plus abs which I do at least 5 minutes of everyday.

And I do a full body/cardio workout at least 2 times a week.

Should we be stretching before our workout?

Of course! A 10 minute warm up with a dynamic stretch (things like walking lunges, jumping jacks etc) is ideal. It increases the range of motion of your muscles so you can get the most out of your workout !

A lot of people think working out is only for weight loss, what are some of the other benefits to working out consistently?

There are so many, I’m not even sure where to start, so I think I’ll give you 10. It can make you feel happier, it significantly increases your energy levels, it keeps your skin looking healthy, it helps you sleep better, it can boost your sex life, it reduces your risk of chronic and cognitive disease, it can help improve your memory, it can strengthen your immune system, it can help improve your self-esteem and believe it or not it can be fun !

Some beginner Gym moves that are actually fun are…

It depends on your definition of ‘fun’ lol but I like crunches and squats

When I work out, I like listening to…

Beyonce’s whole discography

My favourite female athlete is....because…

I have a lot ! My top 2 are Serena Williams are the late Florence Griffith-Joyner because can you imagine being so talented and so hardworking that people think you are taking drugs ?!

My diet consists of a lot of..... and very little....

A lot of protein and very little processed food

Do you have any tips on motivating oneself to work out?

Take a workout buddy so that you have someone to motivate you, keep track of your workout with a diary so that you can see how far you have come, look at it as just an everyday part of your lifestyle as opposed to an obligation, go to a workout class so that you have some direction, take before and after pics, get cute workout clothes (looking good can make you feel good too!), set an achievable goal to work towards and imagine how much you’ll inspire those who are reluctant to start their fitness journey by keeping on track with yours : )

@garren.pryce

SPRING

6 ESSENTIAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS

WITH TEJIRI ARIGBODI

PIXI DOUBLE CLEANSE I love double cleansing so much. Step 1 which is the cleaning balm removes all the dirt (oil) from the skin and can be used to remove makeup too. Step 2 is the cleansing cream which makes my skin feel very soft and removes any excess oil from step 1.

OLE HENRIKSEN TRUTH SERUM The truth serum which contains vitamin C has helped with the texture of my skin - my skin feels so smooth after I apply it . I like the consistency of the serum.

DR. JART PEELING SOLUTION This mask makes your skin feel extra soft and glowy. It also makes your pores appear smaller. It is a two-step process which exfoliates the skin. You will not regret using this at least once a month.

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REN GLOBAL PROTECTION DAY CREAM This moisturizer is very hydrating, it contains omega 3 and 7 oils which are used to combat inflammation and nourishes the skin. If you’ve just gotten a harsh chemical peel or microneedling I would highly recommend this product because it will protect your skin and contains no hash chemicals. REN is also an environmentally friendly brand.

SKINOLOGIST BRIGHTENING PADS Been using this at night for a month now and it has really helped with the texture of my skin - my pores appear smaller and my skin looks brighter.

MESOESTETIC MELAN 130 PIGMENT CONTROL SUNSCREEN Sunscreen protects the skin from the harmful UV ray lights. I like this because it doesn't leave a white cast and it makes my skin glow.

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Megan Thee Stallion - Rich

CC

PND - Savage Anthem

Drake - Chicago Freestyle

Don Toliver - Candy

Doja Cat - Streets

21 Savage - Immortal

Smoove'L - Apollo

Bree Runway - APESHIT

Tink - Facetime

Sarz & WurlD - Mad

Wande Coal - Again

Koffee Ft. Gunna - W

Justin Bieber - Habitual

Vegedream - Ma Go Sure

Future Ft. Drake - Life Is Good

PLAYLIST

DVSN Ft. Snoh Aalegra - Between Us

AFFIRMATIONS AFFIRMATIONS REPEAT THESE TO YOURSELF

I recognize the wisdom, strength, and compassion that is within me I accept and love my authentic self for all that I am I am going to open my heart more to give more, love more & share more My potential to succeed is limitless. I can and I will I am doing my best and that is enough I am allowed to make mistakes, they don't make up my whole story I forgive those who have hurt me I am not alone in this world I will be more disciplined in my life. Self discipline is sexy

ANOELA CARDS LEONA ADESANYA Cards have always been a love language in the Adesanya family, so it was only a matter of time before Leona became a cardaddict. Her grandma would give the grandkids at least 3 cards each on every birthday, then Leona's mum followed suit and soon she was giving cards to her friends for every occasion.

When Leona moved back to Lagos, she saw a gap in the market for fun, cheeky, quality-greeting cards and after a solid round of market-research, she decided to take the plunge and launch Anoela Cards. The company started manufacturing their cards locally in 2019, when the team found a printer that delivered the quality they needed.

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Leona tells us that it has been a rollercoaster runn ing a business in Nigeria, but a fun rollercoaster and she has definitely lear nt a lot over the p ast 2 years. "Quality has been the biggest challenge for the company and it to ok a while to achieve th e quality that we'v e been fortunate to deliver to our customers today ."

Sometimes when sh e gets creative blocks, she consults the AC fam or watches a show/carto on to get her mojo back. When asked if she'd look into incorporating other items/aspects into the Anoela brand, Le ona spoke about a sister company which she's just about to launch; Anoela Print, a design and paper printing company an d they have a few surprises coming up in April and May which they’re pretty excited about so you should all watch out for that.

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CC: What makes your brand stand out from other card companies?

LA: Our designs and quality really make us stand out because they’re unique and frankly speaking, quite bad-ass! The AC team is a family of creatives that appreciates quality and makes sure to incorporate our Nigerian culture or a bit of humour at every opportunity.

CC: What's been your favourite card you've created so far?

LA: I have way too many, but I think my favourite collection till date is our Mother’s Day 2020 collection.

CC: Have you ever been gifted one of your cards?

LA: I sure have and I love it!

CC: Your cards are so witty and clever! how do you come up with the designs for your cards?

LA: It’s a team effort! We get inspiration from literally everywhere from Twitter to random phrases we blurt out at the office.

FEMME AFRICA

Ayomide Dokunmu started Femme Africa in December 2018 but didn’t officially register the business till February 2019. The name 'Femme' is French for Women, that's who the brand is all about!

For Ayomide, it was something she couldn’t believe no one was doing already and at first, she thought it was because it wasn’t possible. Her friend mentioned the idea of an all-female show and after talking to a few people, she was like "yeah, they’re right, this wouldn’t work". However, she couldn’t stop thinking about it. "I worked in media at the time and everywhere I was reminded how hard it was to be a woman in that industry. Everyone I talked to had stories about how difficult it was, harassment they had gone through - that’s something that stuck with me, everyone had a story. So, I just wanted to create something for us that was actually genuine and not just people hopping on the wave of “supporting women” but something that would actually help and here we are almost a year later"

What sort of events/programs does Femme put together?

The Femme showcase: Our quarterly showcase is a chance for women in the industry to connect with their fans, and for fans to discover new female artists. We have an all-female line up, playing alongside an all-female band and a female DJ. Our carefully curated line up ensures that the best in the business get their time to inspire fans.

Spilling the Tea: Our monthly intimate event serves as an opportunity for creatives who want to share their talent with the world. To come together and listen to professionals in the business talk about their experiences and their careers. It’s an opportunity for creatives to share knowledge and network with each other

What was the process of building a team like?

My team basically makes it such that even when i’m not feeling up to it, they are there to pick up the slack and that’s such a huge motivation for me. Knowing that this vision isn’t only on me to achieve, but having a strong team to build with!

What’s one thing you wish you knew before starting Femme?

One thing I’ve learnt is that the people you surround yourself with (your team) is probably the most important decision you’ll make when starting a business, so don’t take it lightly.

Invest in your people.

Ayomide's degree in communication arts has been super helpful to her in terms of running her business because majority of the work Femme does has to do with building and maintaining those relationships. Her degree set a great foundation for how she can relate with people.

Being an entrepreneur can have a massive effect on one’s mental health.

If there’s anything Ayomide has learnt, it is that the ability to get back up when you’ve been knocked down is everything. "It’s hard to fail and still be like 'let me tr again.' I know this because in my role, I send out hundreds of e-mails weekly and barely get anything back, but I still have to brush it off and keep going. I once organized an event for Femme Africa where only about 5 people showed up, but it ended up being a blessing as we learnt that we achieved a greater impact with less people and that became the framework for our future events."

GËTO

GËTO

GËTO Gëto was founded by Samantha Adebayo in December 2018. When it came to picking a name for her brand, Samantha had major issues coming up with one and even kept a notebook of name options. One day a friend described her personal style as "ghetto fab" which sparked a flame in her head. Samantha liked the idea of using that word as a good thing. She made the spelling GËTO from the rap group the Geto boys.

The first collection "Earth and its Core" was launched the following summer and Samantha finished her 2nd collection this past February named "EKO" (a love letter to Lagos). "I wanted to create a brand that made people feel cool effortlessly and to show African people that we don't have to dress in a stereotyped manner or have the European body shape to dress cool". Over sometime, Samantha was drawn to menswear, and wanted to create looks for men that were comfortable and sustainable.

Have you always been interested in fashion, if not, when did you become interested in it?

I've always been interested in dressing up. It wasn't till I was about 15/16 that I started following fashion, not only as a hobby but something that I was passionate about.

What experiences have helped you through the process of creating your brand?

When I first moved back to Nigeria, I worked for a company called Garmspot which gave me insight on how to run a start up company in Lagos. After working there, I took some courses at Central Saint Martins in London to learn about essentials in starting my own fashion brand. After which I applied for an internship with Tiffany Amber and after my interview, instead of being an intern I was offered the job as her design assistant. Working there I learnt a lot from quality control to PR to store management and a whole lot about how to run my own Fashion brand.

We love that you use bold colours and textures, what's the process of picking out fabric like?

With colours I like to use apps like pantone and I Also love imagining the collection down a runway.

I usually choose the colour palette then source for exact materials to best execute the chosen design Who is your target audience?

Millennial's and Gen Z. Anyone to be honest. Anyone who wants to express themselves and have pieces they can wear over and over again in completely different ways.

When working on new designs, what's your creative process like?

What I do is I have a topic I'm working with then I do heavy research for about a week from natural sources and cultural sources; these could be anything from nature to art, film music and fashion icons of the past

Are Geto clothes made in Nigeria? If so, how were you able to find reliable tailors and ones who could bring your designs to life?

Yes they are made in Nigeria, in my atelier. I'd say i'm very lucky to find tailors who work exclusively for the brand and understand my vision and how to execute them. It helps to have a family atmosphere where everyone involved is passionate about creating the best product possible.

"When I was 7, I remember going with my cousins to a cowboy themed party in a bright green sequined halterneck top with matching trousers. I was more interested in looking like Britney Spears than the theme!"

What fashion trend from the past do you want to make a comeback?

Micro-mini skirts and shrugs

Name one celebrity you would love to see rock your designs.

Erykah Badu Running a business is a lot of work, how do you enjoy spending your free time?

Watching movies, listening to music and spending time with my family and friends.

These things help me to recharge and get inspired again!

What advice would you give to women entrepreneurs that are just getting started? the best advice i got was to just start you'll figure it out from there.

POSTS WE LOVE

POSTS WE LOVE

TSEMAYE JEMIDE

Tsemaye Jemide is a Nigerian entrepreneur, currently studying Advertising, Public Relations and Branding in Mauritius. She runs and owns three different businesses in photography, self-care and talent management. Tsemaye started taking pictures when she was 12 with her Canon Rebel T7 camera which she still has and uses today.

Photography started off as a fun hobby but over time the idea of images telling stories, reliving memories and evoking emotion captivated her. When asked how she would describe her photography style, the ?? said "I’d say “me”. I’m a very innovative, goofy, but yet, deep person. When taking pictures, depending on the subject at hand, I can turn nothing into something especially with my editing style". The 19 year old definitely prefers location shoots to studio shoots because with locations, she can be more creative with ideas and angles.

Forbes is a publication Tsemaye would love her work to be published in and someone she is keen on shooting is documentary photographer, Yagazie Emezi. Although she too is mostly behind the lense, Tsemaye would love to change that and put the focus on her.

When it comes to getting inspiration for her shoots, Tsemaye gets a lot of it from people. She looks at people she would like to shoot with and then creates a theme based on the energy she gets from them.

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What's your favorite shot you've taken so far?

I think my shoot with Efe Oraka for ‘clones’ brand. Loved this shoot because, the model was an artist who I love and in between the shoot she sang my favorite song of hers.

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What inspired the Shades of Makoko series?

The Shades of Makoko series was taken when I volunteered with Nireti foundation in 2018. The family I shot were spectating the event we went for, and i witnessed how together they were, so i took pictures of them. When I got home I created a story from each picture; i put myself in the point of view of a viewer, not an artist, and what I saw from the pictures were “family”, “happiness’,” protection”, “hope”. I got my friend, Olegwa Nengite to write a poem for the series, please check it out on my Instagram page, @tsemayejemide

The End.