THEWILL DOWNTOWN, AUGUST 16, 2026

MARIAM TIMMER

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

Building With Purpose

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

CONTENT

EDITOR’S NOTE Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

13 WELLNESS

I

have always believed that beauty is about more than appearance. It is about confidence, identity, wellness, and the stories we choose to tell about ourselves. Across Africa, the beauty industry is embracing this broader meaning, and I find the women driving this change particularly inspiring. Mariam Timmer is one of them.

With years of experience building brands and reputations as a PR and brand strategist, Timmer eventually turned that expertise inward to create LURÈ Beauty, a luxury skincare brand rooted in selfcare, confidence, and community. What stands out to me is her understanding that luxury is not simply about products; it is also about creating experiences where women feel valued, connected, and celebrated.

In our conversation, Timmer shares what inspired her transition from building other people's brands to creating her own, the lessons entrepreneurship has taught her, and why community remains central to her vision.

Read her story on pages 8 to 10; it is a reminder that African luxury can be both ambitious and deeply authentic.

Luxury travel may sound like a privilege reserved for those with deep pockets, but I have found that unforgettable experiences often come down to thoughtful planning rather than extravagant spending.

As you explore our travel page this week, you will find that with the right strategy, you can enjoy beautiful destinations, exceptional stays, and memorable experiences without putting unnecessary pressure on your finances. Scroll to page 14 for this.

15 CULTURE 04-05 FASHION

07

The Smart Girl's Guide to Shopping for Work Clothes

16 DÉCOR 17 THE SCENE

How to Plan a Luxury Vacation Without Spending a Fortune The Endless Life of Timeless Stories

Decor Habits of People With Beautiful Homes

Untold Truths Not Every Hurt Has a Villain

DOWNTOWN

Africa Creative Market 2026 Concludes Landmark Six-Day Gathering

8-10

Mariam Timmer Building With Purpose

18 BON APPÉTIT

Soup Stories Comforting Bowls From Around the Globe

11 LUXURY

She Answered the Other Messages

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

5 Effective Ways to Treat Hormonal Acne

REVIEW

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

COVER

SILK

12

BEAUTY

19

20

My Imagination

The Invite

WHAT YOU SAID Amb.

ELIJAH ONYEAGBA

Thoughtful habits, not expensive décor, often shape a beautiful home. From staying organised to noticing small details, simple choices can transform your space. In our décor page this week, we highlight five habits worth adopting. See page 16.

14

TRAVEL

Weekend Reset Habits That Prepare You for a Better Week

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm

- Contributing Writer Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

Issue No. 287 • August 9, 2026

Diplomacy, Development, and the Discipline of Service

INSTAGRAM

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah

@glees_kitchen

@onahluciaa +2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind - Contributing Writer Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

@mar.iiiam_

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Writers:Dorcas Akintoye, Johnson Chukwueke & Evi-Ben Ezaga Design & Layout: Hogan Effiom Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun, Victoria Dairo & Olamide Abolarin Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown 36AA Remi Fani-Kayode Avenue, GRA, Ikeja. Lagos, Nigeria. +234 810 345 2286, +234 913 333 3888

Ada Obiajunwa @aaddaahh - Contributing Writer Ada Obiajunwa writes from Lagos about the big truths tucked inside ordinary moments — friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet revolutions of everyday life. She believes in the power of presence, good banter, and decoding the unsaid. Through her fragrance studio, WhiffWonders, she also crafts scents that weave memory and emotion into experiences that feel like home.

@nkumbu198

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Issue No. ISSUE NO.288 261••August FEBRUARY 16, 2026 08, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

FASHION

THE SMART GIRL'S GUIDE TO SHOPPING FOR WORK CLOTHES PAGE 4

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

S

hopping for work clothes can feel stressful, especially when you want to look professional without spending too much money. Many women make the mistake of buying clothes simply because they look nice in the store. However, workwear shopping should be more intentional. The right clothes can help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the day ahead. If you want to build a work wardrobe that works for you, here are four smart shopping tips to follow.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

FASHION KNOW YOUR WORKPLACE DRESS CODE

Before buying any work clothes, take time to understand what is acceptable in your workplace. Every office has its own style. Some workplaces are very formal, while others allow a more relaxed look.Wh en you understand the dre ss code, you can shop with confidence. For example , if your office is corporat e, blazers, tailored trousers , and structured dresses may be good choices. If your workplace is more casual, you may have mo re freedom with colours an d styles.

CHOOSE QUALITY OVER QUANTITY It can be tempting to buy many cheap clothes, but quality is often a better investment. Clothes made from better materials usually last longer, look neater, and maintain their shape after several washes. Before buying an item, check the fabric, stitching, and overall finish. Make sure the clothing feels comfortable and durable. A few highquality pieces will serve you better than a wardrobe full of items that wear out quickly.

FOCUS ON VERSATILE PIECES

A smart shopper do es not buy clothes that ca n only be worn once. Inst ead, she chooses versatile pieces that can be styled in di fferent ways. For exampl e, a wellfitted blazer can be worn over a dress, paire d with trousers, or match ed with a skirt. Neutral-col oured trousers and simpl e blouses can also be easily mixed and matched. Having versatile pieces allows you to create many outfits from a small number of clothes .This saves money and makes getting dressed easier ea ch morning.

When shopping, al ways ask yourself if a pi ece can work with at leas t three other items alread y in your wardrobe.

PRIORITISE COMFORT AND FIT No matter how beautifu l an outfit looks, it is not a good choice if it feels uncomfortable.Workday s can be long, so your clo thes should let you move fre ely and feel comfortable all day. Always try on clothe s before buying when po ssible.

Pay attention to how the y fit around the shoulders, waist, and hips. Avoid pie ces that are too tight or too loose.When your clothe s fit properly, you naturally fee l more confident. Comfort able workwear helps you foc us on your tasks instead of constantly adjusting yo ur outfit. Smart shopping is not just about looking good ; it is also about feeling good while doing your job.

Shopping for work clothes does not have to be difficult or expensive. The key is to shop with purpose rather than buy items on impulse.

When you understand your workplace dress code, choose versatile pieces, invest in quality, and prioritise comfort, you can build a wardrobe that serves you well every day.

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Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

SALLY CHIWUZIE

UNTOLD TRUTHS Not Every Hurt Has a Villain @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

T

he last year has required more introspection from me than I would ordinarily volunteer for.

Over this past year, some relationships have fallen away. I could tell that story with myself conveniently cast as the wounded protagonist, but that would require me to believe I was blameless in every ending. I do not.

There have been challenges, endings, uncomfortable revelations and moments when life seemed determined to hold up a mirror when I would much rather have looked out the window.

Other people stayed.

They allowed room for clarification, apology, imperfection and repair. They gave me grace.

And perhaps that is one of love’s least glamorous jobs: leaving room for repair.

Somewhere in all of that, I began separating the grain from the chaff.

People. Habits.

Relationships. Expectations.

Even old versions of myself.

Not endless tolerance. Not pretending something did not hurt. Not allowing people unlimited access to us simply because their intentions were good.

I have spent a lot of time listening for God’s voice, often in the stillness where instinct speaks too. I have been asking what good grain actually looks like. What deserves to remain? What has served its purpose?

What am I preserving simply because I am frightened of disappointing someone? What am I finally allowed to put down?

Intent helps me decide how I interpret the person. Impact helps me decide what needs to happen next.

Those are different decisions.

I have learned to trust my instincts over this past year, but I am also learning to interrogate them. Not every alarm is a prophecy. Sometimes an old wound simply recognises a familiar shape.

I thought I was learning discernment.

Discernment asks me to recognise what is harmful.

Grace asks me not to confuse imperfect with harmful.

Perhaps I was.

But recently another question occurred to me.

In becoming better at identifying the chaff, was I becoming too quick to discard imperfect grain?

and my intentions, surely I must be prepared to offer them the same consideration.

So I have started asking myself one uncomfortable question whenever someone hurts or disappoints me:

There is an old biblical truth that says we have all fallen short. Perhaps falling short was never the surprising part. We are human. We will disappoint one another, misunderstand each other and sometimes get love spectacularly wrong.

What happens afterwards tells us considerably more.

For much of my life, I have been a people-pleaser. I could bend myself into extraordinary shapes trying to make sure nobody was hurt or disappointed, and, if I am being completely truthful, trying to control what people thought of me.

Not: did it hurt?

Those are two entirely different questions.

Do we acknowledge the hurt? Do we apologise? Do we change? Do we listen? Do we repair what can be repaired? And can we extend to others some of the understanding we desperately hope they will extend to us?

I am slowly unlearning that.

Pain tells me about impact. It does not automatically tell me about intention.

Giving grace acknowledges the pain without assuming the worst.

That distinction has become important because human beings are remarkably generous when explaining our own behaviour. We were tired. We were overwhelmed. We communicated badly. We were protecting ourselves. We did not mean it that way.

So perhaps the next time someone hurts you, pause before deciding why.

I say no more often now. I protect my wellbeing more deliberately. I am becoming increasingly comfortable with the possibility that somebody may not like a decision I make.

Have I mastered this?

Absolutely not.

Sometimes my no wobbles.

Did this person actually intend to hurt me?

Yet when someone else hurts us, how quickly can we conclude: they knew exactly what they were doing.

Sometimes I explain too much, say too little or Perhaps they did. leave enough ambiguity for someone to reasonably misunderstand me. When that happens, I apologise.

Learning to have boundaries does not exempt me from And when harm is deliberate, repeated or knowingly inflicted, grace does not require us to accountability for how I communicate them. stand around volunteering for another helping.

Boundaries matter.

And therein lies the uncomfortable part.

If I want people to distinguish between my mistakes

But sometimes people simply get things wrong.

I certainly do.

Ask: did they intend to hurt me?

The answer may not change what happened. It may not even change what you need to do next. But it might change the story you tell yourself about why it happened.

Perhaps the #Unshakable truth is this: giving grace does not mean pretending the pain did not happen. It means acknowledging the hurt without automatically assuming the worst.

Because pain deserves to be acknowledged.

It just does not always need a villain.

‘See’ you next week.

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Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

COVER

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

T

he African beauty industry is no longer just about looking good; it is about identity, wellness, innovation, and telling authentic African stories.

Among the entrepreneurs driving this shift is Mariam Timmer, a respected PR and brand strategist who has spent years helping businesses build strong reputations before launching her own luxury skincare brand, LURÈ Beauty. More than creating skincare products, she is building a brand centred on self-care, confidence, and community. Through the LURÈ Beauty Pop-Up Experience, she is creating spaces where women can connect, build meaningful relationships, and celebrate themselves, while redefining what luxury beauty means in Africa.

In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Mariam Timmer discusses the journey from building other people's brands to creating her own, the vision behind LURÈ Beauty, the lessons entrepreneurship has taught her, why community is at the heart of her business, and her bold ambition to help shape the future of African luxury beauty.

You built your reputation helping other brands tell their stories through PR. Was there a moment when you realised it was finally time to stop hiding behind other people's brands and build one that carried your own name and vision?

There wasn't one defining moment—it was a gradual realisation that came after years of helping other brands grow while quietly putting my own vision on hold. Throughout my career in public relations and strategic communications, I had the privilege of shaping stories, launching brands, managing reputations, and helping businesses find their voice. I genuinely love seeing ideas transform into successful brands.

Eventually, I began asking myself a simple but lifechanging question: "If I can dedicate this much passion, creativity, and commitment to building someone else's vision, what could happen if I invested that same energy into my own?" That question changed everything. When I founded LURÈ BEAUTY, it wasn't because I wanted to leave public relations behind. Quite the opposite.

It was because PR had taught me that every successful brand begins with a compelling story, a clear purpose, and an authentic connection with people. I wanted to create a luxury skincare brand that reflected my values—quality, intentionality, confidence, and the belief that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. LURÈ BEAUTY was born from that vision. It represents more than skincare; it represents confidence, wellness, and celebrating natural beauty through thoughtfully crafted products made with carefully selected organic ingredients.

Every product, every campaign, and every retail partnership reflects a piece of my journey and the standards I hold myself to. Launching my own brand also challenged me in ways I never anticipated.

MARIAM TIMMER Building With Purpose

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

COVER It required vulnerability because I was no longer telling someone else's story—I was telling my own. Every success feels personal, every lesson has made me stronger, and every challenge has reinforced why I started this journey. That said, public relations will always be my first love. PR is the industry that built me professionally. It shaped the way I think, communicate, solve problems, and approach business. It taught me that perception matters, relationships are everything, and that behind every successful company is a powerful story waiting to be told. I have no intention of leaving that world behind. Through my communications and brand consultancy, Six Sixteen Agency, I will continue helping entrepreneurs, executives, and organisations build meaningful brands, develop strategic communications, and position themselves for long-term success. Watching others succeed is something I genuinely enjoy, and helping businesses tell their stories will always be a significant part of who I am. Today, I see these two worlds working together. LURÈ BEAUTY allows me to build a brand that reflects my own vision, while Six Sixteen Agency gives me the opportunity to continue empowering others to build theirs. Looking back, I don't believe I was ever hiding behind other people's brands. I was learning. I was preparing. Every campaign I managed, every client I represented, and every story I helped tell became part of the foundation that prepared me to build my own. Now, through LURÈ BEAUTY, Six Sixteen Agency, and The Nova Pearl Initiative, my mission is bigger than business. It's about creating brands with purpose, empowering people to believe in their vision, and building a legacy that extends far beyond myself. To me, that's the most meaningful story I could ever tell.

The skincare market is already crowded with brands promising glowing skin. If someone removed your logo from every product, what would still make people recognise, "This is unmistakably LURÈ"?

I believe they would recognise the experience before they recognised the product. For me, LURÈ BEAUTY has never been about selling skincare.

It's about creating a ritual—one that makes people slow down, reconnect with themselves, and feel cared for. If you removed our logo, I would still want someone to pick up a LURÈ product and immediately recognise it through its texture, its luxurious organic fragrance, the way it melts into the skin, and most importantly, how it makes them feel. From the very beginning, I wanted every LURÈ BEAUTY product to feel intentional. We don't create products simply to moisturise or exfoliate—we create products that transform everyday skincare into a luxury experience. Whether it's the richness of our Organic Shea Butter, the comforting warmth of our Vanilla & Shea Butter, the nourishing touch of our Golden Cares Coconut Elixir, or the indulgent lather of our foaming sugar scrubs, every formula is designed to deliver an experience that is both effective and memorable. What also makes LURÈ unmistakable is our commitment to natural ingredients. We believe nature provides some of the finest ingredients for healthy skin, and we take great care in selecting ingredients that nourish, restore, and support the skin while creating beautifully balanced fragrances that people genuinely look forward to using every day.

Luxury, to me, should never come at the expense of quality or authenticity.

Beyond the products themselves, LURÈ BEAUTY carries a philosophy. It is a brand built on confidence, intentional living, and self-worth. We want people to understand that taking care of your skin is not vanity—it is self-respect. When someone uses LURÈ BEAUTY, I want them to feel that they are investing in themselves. I also believe our brand is inclusive.

LURÈ BEAUTY was created for everyone. Healthy skin has no gender, no age, and no boundaries. Our products are made for women and men alike, for anyone who values quality, wellness, and luxury in their daily routine. Ultimately, what makes LURÈ BEAUTY unmistakable isn't just what is inside the jar or bottle—it's the intention behind everything we create.

Every product reflects my personal standards, my passion for excellence, and my belief that luxury should feel authentic, comforting, and deeply personal. If someone experienced a LURÈ BEAUTY product without ever seeing the logo, my hope is that they would still say, "This feels different.

This feels thoughtful. This feels like luxury inspired by nature." And to me, that's the true identity of the brand.

never an indulgence. It's an investment in their wellbeing. That's what LURÈ BEAUTY stands for.

Every founder has that one product they obsess over before launch. Which LURÈ product kept you awake the most, and what standards did it have to meet before you were willing to release it?

Without question, it was the LURÈ Golden Cares Coconut Elixir. People often think creating a body oil is simple, but I saw it very differently.

I knew this product would become one of the signature pieces of the LURÈ BEAUTY collection, so I refused to settle for "good enough." I wanted it to represent everything the brand stands for—luxury, quality, authenticity, and results. I spent countless hours refining every detail. I was particular about the quality of the coconut oil, how it felt on the skin, its absorption, its finish, and, of course, its fragrance. I wanted an oil that deeply nourished the skin without leaving it feeling heavy or greasy. It had to leave the skin feeling silky, hydrated, and naturally radiant. The scent was equally important. I didn't want a fragrance that simply smelled nice—I wanted one that created an experience. Something warm, elegant, and memorable. I believe fragrance has the power to evoke emotion, and I wanted every application to feel comforting, luxurious, and uplifting. Beyond the formulation, I obsessed over how the product made people feel. Every time someone tested it, I watched their reaction. Did they immediately notice how soft their skin felt? Did they instinctively smell their hands again? Did they smile? Those moments mattered to me because they told me whether we had created an experience, not just another skincare product.

I'm naturally meticulous, so I don't believe in rushing products to market. If something doesn't meet my standards, I would rather delay a launch than release something I wouldn't personally use. My name is attached to every LURÈ BEAUTY product, and that comes with a responsibility to deliver excellence. What many people don't realise is that LURÈ BEAUTY isn't just a business to me—it is a reflection of who I am.

Every formulation, every ingredient, every fragrance, every texture, and every detail carries my personal touch. I wanted our first collection to introduce the world to a brand that values craftsmanship over shortcuts and quality over trends. That experience also shaped how we develop every product today. It taught me that true luxury isn't created by adding more; it's created by being intentional.

Sometimes the smallest details— the texture, the finish, the fragrance, the feeling a product leaves behind— are what transform an ordinary skincare routine into an unforgettable experience. For me, that is the essence of LURÈ BEAUTY. We are not simply creating skincare products—we are creating moments of care, confidence, and everyday luxury that people look forward to experiencing again and again.

"If I can dedicate this much passion, creativity, and commitment to building someone else's vision, what could happen if I invested that same energy into my own?" That question changed everything."

You say LURÈ is about turning skincare into an act of self-love rather than another beauty routine.

How do you make sure it doesn't remain just marketing language and actually becomes part of your customers' everyday lives?

For me, self-love has never been a slogan—it has been a way of living. I don't believe people connect with brands because of beautiful packaging or clever marketing alone. They connect with brands that make them feel something and become part of their daily lives. At LURÈ BEAUTY, we intentionally create products that encourage people to slow down. In today's world, we're constantly rushing from one responsibility to another, and we often forget to care for ourselves. I wanted LURÈ BEAUTY to remind people that even five or ten minutes spent caring for your skin can become a meaningful moment of peace, gratitude, and self-respect. That philosophy begins with the products themselves. From the rich texture of our body butters to the indulgent experience of our foaming sugar scrubs and the nourishing feel of our Coconut Elixir, every formulation is designed to transform an everyday routine into a luxurious ritual.

The experience is just as important as the results. But we also reinforce that message beyond the products.

Through our social media, pop-up experiences, and customer interactions, we consistently encourage our community to embrace self-care as a lifestyle rather than something reserved for special occasions. We educate our customers about healthy skincare habits, the importance of hydration and exfoliation, and the value of investing in their overall well-being.

One thing I often say is that healthy skin is a reflection of how well we care for ourselves—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. When someone reaches for a LURÈ BEAUTY product after a long day, I want it to be more than applying a body butter or scrub. I want it to be a reminder that they deserve care, they deserve rest, and they deserve to feel good in their own skin. The greatest validation comes from our customers.

When they tell us they look forward to their evening skincare ritual, that our products have become part of their daily routine, or that they feel more confident in their skin, that's when I know our message is no longer marketing—it's becoming part of their lifestyle. Ultimately, my goal isn't simply to build a successful skincare brand. It's to build a brand that becomes part of people's everyday moments—a brand they trust, a brand they enjoy using, and a brand that reminds them that taking care of themselves is

"I was particular about the quality of the coconut oil, how it felt on the skin, its absorption, its finish, and, of course, its fragrance."

"From the very beginning, I wanted every LURÈ BEAUTY product to feel intentional. We don't create products simply to moisturise or exfoliate—we create products that transform everyday skincare into a luxury experience."

We're seeing more Nigerian beauty brands gaining attention globally. What do you think African brands still misunderstand about building luxury brands that can compete internationally?

I think African brands have extraordinary creativity, incredible raw materials, and compelling stories. What I believe many of us still underestimate is that luxury is not simply about having a premium product—it's about creating a complete brand experience. Luxury is built on consistency, trust, and emotional connection.

Every touchpoint matters—from formulation and

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Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER packaging to customer service, storytelling, retail presentation, and even what happens after a purchase.

International luxury brands have mastered the art of making customers feel like they're becoming part of something exclusive, not just buying a product. Sometimes, as African entrepreneurs, we focus heavily on creating a great product, and rightly so. But consumers don't only buy products—they buy the story, the values, the experience, and the confidence that comes with the brand. That emotional connection is what builds loyalty.

Another area I think we need to embrace is patience. We often feel pressure to grow quickly, but true luxury brands are built over time. They protect their identity, maintain high standards, and don't compromise quality for rapid expansion. Building a respected global brand is a marathon, not a sprint. I also believe we need to become more intentional about branding. Packaging, photography, visual identity, language, customer experience, and consistency should all communicate the same message.

Every interaction should reinforce who you are as a brand. Luxury isn't determined by price; it's determined by how people feel every time they encounter your brand. One thing I never want LURÈ BEAUTY to lose is its African identity. For many years, luxury was often associated with Europe, but I believe that perception is changing. Africa has some of the world's richest natural ingredients, remarkable craftsmanship, and talented entrepreneurs. We shouldn't feel the need to imitate international brands to be accepted globally. Instead, we should embrace what makes us unique and

present it with excellence. For me, LURÈ BEAUTY isn't trying to become "the African version" of another luxury skincare brand. My vision is to build a globally respected luxury brand that just happens to be proudly African. There's a difference. I believe the next generation of African brands won't compete because they're from Africa—they'll compete because they're exceptional. If we remain committed to quality, consistency, innovation, and authenticity, I have no doubt that African luxury brands will continue to redefine the global beauty industry. That's the future I want LURÈ BEAUTY to be part of—not simply representing Africa, but helping set the global standard for what African luxury can look like.

Read the full interview on www. thewilldowntown.com

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

LUXURY SILK

ADA OBIAJUNWA @aaddaahh

SHE ANSWERED THE OTHER MESSAGES B

y the second day, there were more than two hundred unread messages.

the table and left the two women talking.

Ada had muted the group. She could still see the number.

When Ada came back, the call had ended. She picked up her phone and went back to work.

There were other messages after that. Other times they ran into each other.

They carried on without her.

Every few hours she would open WhatsApp for something else, and there it was.

More than two hundred.

Now there were dates.

Times. A service of songs.

A burial.

The messages kept coming.

Other messages came in around it. Work. Family.

Someone asking a question she could answer quickly.

She answered those.

“Kilo n bubble?”

The muted group stayed where it was.

She had read some of them at first. People were writing tributes now.

How they met her. Something she had done for them. A photograph Ada had never seen.

Ada opened the group once. Someone she knew had written something.

Then someone she didn’t know.

There were stories from parts of her friend’s life Ada had never been there for.

Sometimes it was Oniranu.

Sometimes hooligan.

There was always something to continue. A story. Someone to discuss.

Something one of them had heard.

couldn’t anymore.

She read until she

Then she muted the group again.

She read it again.

And, occasionally, jollof rice. The following morning, Ada looked at herself in the mirror. Her eyes were swollen Her friend had first cooked it for Ada when they were from crying. seventeen. She had come over one day, mentioned She looked like E.T. that she could cook, walked into the kitchen and proved it.

Later, someone told her she needed to try Years later, the joke was still running. She would cook. to snap out of it.

Ada would come and collect. Then they would talk Ada looked at them. about whatever there was to talk about.

Then she froze.

Not long before, she had called to check on Ada.

She said nothing.

She called the person who had sent it. No answer.

She called again. No answer. Again.

It was early. She knew that. She knew that if the woman was near her phone, she would answer.

Somehow Ada’s sister came up in the conversation.

Her sister lived abroad. The two women barely knew each other.

Her phone lit up later that day. Another WhatsApp message. Not that group.

After a while, she stopped opening the group.

Two mornings earlier, at about six, someone had forwarded Ada an obituary.

She knew the face immediately.

She kept calling anyway.

Eventually she called another friend. A mutual friend. The friend confirmed it.

Her friend had died.

They had met in JSS 1.

Sometimes they spoke. Sometimes they ran into each other. Sometimes her phone would ring, and there would be no real beginning to the conversation.

It didn’t matter. She had been through something similar to what Ada’s sister was dealing with.

“Put her on the phone.”

Soon they were on a three-way call. She started talking. Names. Phone numbers. People to contact.

Things Ada’s sister should know.

Nothing held back.

Twenty minutes became an hour. Then two.

At some point, someone walked into Ada’s office.

She needed to attend to them. Ada put the phone on

Ada opened it. Answered.

There was something else from work. She answered that too.

Then she returned to the list of conversations. Family. Work. Friends.

And the muted group.

More than two hundred unread messages beside it.

Ada didn’t open it.

For Oyenike.

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Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BEAUTY

5

EFFECTIVE WAYS TO TREAT HORMONAL ACNE

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

H

ormonal acne is a common skin condition that happens when changes in hormone levels cause the skin to produce too much oil. This extra oil mixes with dead skin cells and blocks the pores, leading to pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or painful cysts. It often appears on the chin, jawline, cheeks, and neck. Hormonal acne is common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and even stressful periods. Although it can be frustrating, it can be managed with the right treatment and healthy habits. See here: five effective ways to treat hormonal acne.

USE PRODUCTS WITH ACNE-FIGHTING INGREDIENTS Choosing the right skincare products is one of the best ways to manage hormonal acne. Ingredients like salicylic acid help remove excess oil and clear blocked pores. Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce bacteria that can cause pimples, while retinoids prevent pores from becoming clogged. Gently wash your face twice a day and use products formulated for acne-prone skin. Avoid using too many harsh products at once, as they can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse rather than better.

SEE A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL If your acne is painful, severe, or keeps coming back, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Since hormones are the main cause, creams alone may not solve the problem. A doctor may recommend treatments that help control hormone levels or reduce oil production. These medicines are not suitable for everyone, so they should only be taken with proper medical advice. Getting the right treatment early can also help prevent permanent acne scars.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET A balanced diet can support healthy skin.

While food does not directly cause hormonal acne, some people notice more breakouts after eating large amounts of sugary foods or highly processed snacks. Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides nutrients that support your skin.

Drinking enough water also helps keep your body and skin hydrated. Healthy eating should be part of your overall skincare routine rather than a quick cure for acne.

REDUCE STRESS Stress can worsen hormonal acne by altering hormone levels and increasing oil production. Although stress cannot always be avoided, finding healthy ways to relax may help reduce breakouts. Exercise, enough sleep, deep breathing, reading, or spending time with loved ones can help lower stress.

Taking care of your mental health is also an important part of caring for your skin.

DO NOT PICK YOUR PIMPLES Picking or squeezing pimples may seem like a quick solution, but it often causes more harm than good. It can push bacteria deeper into the skin, increase swelling, slow healing, and leave scars or dark spots. Instead, let your treatment products work and avoid touching your face unnecessarily.

Being patient and following a consistent skincare routine will give better results over time and help your skin heal safely.

Hormonal acne can be difficult to deal with, but it is treatable. The key is to understand that it takes time, consistency, and the right combination of skincare, healthy habits, and medical advice when needed.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

WELLNESS

Weekend Reset HABITS THAT PREPARE YOU FOR A BETTER WEEK

BY NATO CHIMA

F

or many people, weekends disappear in a blur of sleep-ins, social plans, and endless scrolling. Before you know it, Sunday night arrives, and Monday feels like a rude awakening. While weekends are meant for rest, they're also an opportunity to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the days ahead. A weekend reset isn't about filling every minute with productivity; it's about creating a few simple habits that help you feel organised, refreshed, and ready to take on the week. The best part?

You don't need an elaborate routine, just a handful of intentional actions making Monday less stressful and the rest of the week more manageable.

PLAN THE WEEK AHEAD You don't need a colour-coded planner to stay organised. Take a few minutes to review your calendar, list important deadlines, schedule appointments, and write down your top priorities.

If possible, decide what you'll wear for work or school on Monday and prepare a simple meal plan for the first few days of the week. Planning ahead reduces last-minute stress and helps you start Monday with confidence rather than confusion.

RECHARGE YOUR BODY DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE AND YOUR MIND

A cluttered room often leads to a cluttered mind.

Spend 20 to 30 minutes tidying your bedroom, workspace, or living area. Put laundry away, organise your desk, and throw out anything you no longer need. While you're at it, clear out unnecessary notifications, delete unwanted emails, and organise your phone's home screen.

Starting the week with a cleaner environment helps you feel calmer and more focused.

Weekends often tempt us to stay up late, eat anything we want, and ignore healthy habits. While it's fine to enjoy yourself, try to balance indulgence with selfcare. Get enough sleep on Sunday night, drink plenty of water, prepare healthy snacks, and make time for a walk, gym session, or light stretching. Looking after your body now makes it much easier to stay energised during the week.

MAKE TIME FOR SOMETHING THAT BRINGS YOU JOY

Not every moment of your weekend should be about chores or preparation. Read a few chapters of a book, watch a film, try a new recipe, visit your favourite café, spend time with loved ones, or enjoy a quiet moment without checking your phone. These small moments of joy help reduce stress and remind you that life isn't only about deadlines and responsibilities.

SET ONE GOAL THAT MATTERS

Instead of creating an overwhelming list of resolutions every Monday, choose one meaningful goal for the week ahead. It could be drinking more water, attending three gym sessions, finishing a project early, spending less time on social media, or calling a family member you've been meaning to catch up with.

A better week starts with how you spend your weekend. By taking a little time to organise your space, plan ahead, recharge your body, enjoy life's simple pleasures, and set a realistic goal, you create a smoother transition into the new week.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

HOW TO PLAN A LUXURY VACATION WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE

TRAVEL

BY OLAMIDE ABOLARIN

A

lot of people think luxury travel has to be expensive, and it often is. But here is what most people do not tell you: the most memorable trips are rarely about how much you spent. They are about how well you planned. A luxury vacation is absolutely within reach if you approach it with the right mindset and a little strategy.

Here is how to make it happen without watching your account bleed.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET BEFORE YOU START PLANNING Before you search for flights, scroll through hotels, or imagine yourself by a pool somewhere, sit down and decide what you are actually working with. A clear budget does not limit your trip; it shapes it. It tells you where to spend and where to pull back. The travellers who always seem to have the best trips are not the richest ones; they are the ones who planned with intention from the very beginning.

TRAVEL DURING THE OFFPEAK SEASON Timing is one of the most underrated cheat codes in travel planning. The same hotel room, the same beach, the same city, all at a lower price simply because you chose to go when everyone else did not. Off-peak travel is not a compromise. In many cases, it is actually the better experience. It offers fewer crowds, more personalised service, and the quiet luxury of feeling like you have a destination almost entirely to yourself.

Eat where the locals eat for most of your trip. Local foods are more authentic, more interesting, and cheaper than anything on a tourist menu. Then, pick one evening, one exceptional restaurant, and make it a real moment. That contrast is what makes it memorable. One well-chosen splurge always feels more luxurious than expensive meals every single day.

CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION WISELY

Not every luxury destination costs the same.

A five-star experience in Rwanda, Zanzibar, or Namibia will cost you less than the same level of comfort in Paris or Dubai. Africa is full of destinations that offer breathtaking scenery, world-class hospitality, and beautiful experiences at a fraction of what you would spend elsewhere.

The destination you choose sets the tone for everything. Choose one that gives you the most for what you have.

PAGE 14

EAT SMART, SPLURGE ONCE

PRIORITISE EXPERIENCES OVER THINGS

Luxury is not about buying everything on offer.

It is about choosing what matters most and doing it exceptionally well. Decide early in your planning which two or three experiences are nonnegotiable and allocate your budget to them. Let everything else be secondary.

Luxury travel is never really about spending the most money. It has always been about spending wisely and choosing deliberately.

With the right plan and a clear sense of what matters to you, an extraordinary trip is far more achievable than most people think. The only thing standing between you and that vacation is the decision to start planning.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

CULTURE

EVI-BEN EZAGA

THE ENDLESS LIFE OF TIMELESS STORIES

T

mythology that continues to influence modern entertainment.

here is something fascinating about a story that refuses to disappear. Long after its first audience is gone, it can return in another form, carried into a different era and introduced to people who may never have encountered it before.

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is one example. Homer’s ancient epic has survived for thousands of years, yet its themes still feel familiar: the desire for home, loyalty, ambition, survival and the challenges that come with being human. Now, another generation is being given the chance to experience the story through a modern cinematic lens.

But The Odyssey is hardly alone.

Some stories seem to have lives of their own.

Romeo and Juliet, first performed centuries ago, has been reimagined in countless films and adaptations.

The details may change, but the story’s central ideas about love, conflict and loss continue to resonate.

Frankenstein has travelled a similar path.

Mary Shelley’s novel has been repeatedly reinterpreted, with its ideas about creation, responsibility and humanity taking on new meanings as technology and society have changed.

Even older myths continue to find new audiences. The story of Perseus, with its heroes, monsters and gods, has been retold across generations and remains part of the larger collection of Greek

It does not seem to matter whether a story

began as a single fixed text with a known author, like Frankenstein, or was passed by word of mouth for centuries before anyone wrote it down, like Homer’s epics or the myth of Perseus. Both

kinds of origins have proven just as capable of lasting.

What keeps these stories alive is not necessarily their original setting or even every detail of their plots. It is what sits beneath them. Human beings have always experienced love, fear, ambition, grief, betrayal and the desire to understand where they belong. Those experiences can make an ancient story feel surprisingly close to home.

Yet retelling does more than preserve the past. It

allows each new audience to bring its own perspective to what it inherits.

A story about a hero can become a conversation about identity. A tale of forbidden love can take on new meaning when viewed through the lens of modern relationships. A story about a scientist creating life can raise different questions in an age of rapid technological development.

This is why retelling is not necessarily about improving or replacing what came before. It can simply be another way of having a conversation with it.

There is also something comforting about returning to a familiar story.

Audiences may already know the characters or the basic plot, but a new adaptation offers the possibility of seeing them differently. Each retelling invites us to notice something we may have missed before, shaped by whatever era we happen to be watching from.

The appeal is partly in recognition and partly in discovery: we know the story, but we do not know exactly what someone else will find in it.

The idea of a story being “timeless” does not mean it remains frozen in its original form. A truly lasting story has room for new interpretations without losing the qualities that made it meaningful in the first place.

The stories we inherit do not belong entirely to the past. We carry them forward, reshape them and sometimes discover parts of ourselves within them.

That is the secret to their endless lives: stories survive not because they never change, but because they are able to change with us.

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Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

DÉCOR

Decor Habits of People With Beautiful Homes THEY CHOOSE DECOR WITH PURPOSE People with beautiful homes do not buy every trendy item they see. They choose decor pieces carefully and ensure each item adds value to the space. Rather than filling every corner with decorations, they focus on a few meaningful pieces that work well together. This creates a balanced look and prevents the home from feeling overcrowded. Thoughtful decorating often makes a space look more elegant than an overabundance of items.

THEY PAY ATTENTION TO LIGHTING Lighting plays a major role in how a home looks and feels. People with beautiful homes understand this and make the most of both natural and artificial light. During the day, they let sunlight in by opening curtains and blinds. Natural light makes rooms feel fresh, bright, and welcoming. At night, they use lamps, ceiling lights, or wall lights to create a warm atmosphere.

Good lighting can make furniture, colours, and decor pieces look more attractive. Even a simple room can feel beautiful when it is properly lit.

THEY ADD LIFE WITH PLANTS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

A

beautiful home is not always about expensive furniture or following every design trend. Many homes feel warm, stylish, and inviting because of simple habits the owners practise regularly.

People with beautiful homes pay attention to detail and make choices that keep their spaces neat, comfortable, and attractive. The good news is that anyone can develop these habits without spending a lot of money. In this article, we will show five decor habits that help create homes that always look beautiful.

THEY KEEP CLUTTER UNDER CONTROL One habit shared by people with beautiful homes is keeping clutter at bay. They do not allow unnecessary items to pile up on tables, shelves, or floors. Too many items in one space can make a room feel crowded and stressful. Instead, they regularly sort through their belongings and keep only what they truly need or love. They also use baskets, drawers, and storage boxes to keep things neatly organised. When everything has a proper place, the home looks cleaner and more attractive. A tidy room also allows furniture and decor pieces to stand out.

Plants are a common feature in many beautiful homes. They bring freshness, colour, and a natural touch to indoor spaces. People with beautiful homes often place plants on shelves, tables, or in corners that need extra life. Plants can make a room feel calm and inviting.

They also help soften hard surfaces such as walls and furniture.

THEY REFRESH THEIR SPACES REGULARLY Beautiful homes do not stay the same forever. People who maintain attractive homes regularly make small updates to keep them fresh. They may rearrange furniture, change cushion covers, add fresh flowers, or swap decor items between rooms. These simple changes help the home feel new without spending much money. Regular updates also prevent a space from looking dull or outdated. Small improvements over time can have a big impact on a home's overall appearance.

Beautiful homes often stem from simple habits practised consistently. By reducing clutter, decorating with purpose, improving lighting, adding plants, and refreshing spaces regularly, anyone can create a home that feels welcoming, stylish, and comfortable every day.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

THEATRE & DANCE

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

RS

ACM NEXT LEVEL WINNE

DELEGATES

WIFT AWA

RD

AFRICA CREATIVE MARKET 2026 CONCLUDES LANDMARK SIX-DAY GATHERING Africa Creative Market (ACM) 2026 concluded a sixday gathering in Lusaka, Zambia, bringing together government officials, investors, policymakers, development partners and creatives from across Africa to advance the continent's creative economy.

NAMA AW ARD

NAMA AWARD

Held from 29 June to 4 July in partnership with the Creative Industries Business Summit Zambia (CIBSZ) and the Kwimbo National Arts Festival, the event featured specialised summits, business forums, exhibitions, film screenings, cultural showcases and networking sessions focused on investment, innovation and cross-border collaboration.

Highlights included the Creative Capital Forum, Global Creative Legal Summit, Digital Creator Africa Summit, Women in Film & TV Africa Conference, FashionEVO Summit, Kingdom Film Festival, and the Kwimbo National Arts Festival. The event concluded with the ACM Next Level Music Showcase, where Philip Mweemba emerged as the overall winner, receiving a ZMW 10,000 cash prize and international music distribution and publishing support.

PLAY

ZAMBIA CULTURAL DIS

LAYI WASABI ,

OLUFEMI OG

UNTAMU, MA

LIK AFEGBU

DELEGATES

FASHIONEVO RUNWAY

DIGITAL CREATOR AF

RICA SUMMIT

INYA LAWAL

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A

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BON APPÉTIT

SOUP STORIES

COMFORTING BOWLS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

F

ew foods are as comforting and universal as a warm bowl of soup. Whether it's enjoyed on a rainy afternoon, served as a family meal, or used to soothe a cold, soup has a way of bringing people together across cultures. Every country has its own signature recipe, reflecting local ingredients, traditions, and flavours passed down through generations. While Nigeria boasts favourites like Pepper soup, Afang, and Oha soup, the rest of the world offers equally fascinating bowls worth exploring if you're looking to expand your menu or simply discover something new.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

TOM YUM – THAILAND

Known for its bold combination of spicy, sour, and aromatic flavours, Tom Yum is one of Thailand's most famous soups. It's traditionally made with shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, chilli, and lime juice, creating a broth that's both refreshing and comforting. The balance of heat and citrus makes it unlike any soup most Nigerians are used to, yet it's surprisingly easy to recreate with ingredients available in many supermarkets.

FRENCH ONION SOUP – FRANCE

Simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavours, and French Onion Soup proves exactly that. Slowly caramelised onions are simmered in a rich beef broth before being topped with toasted bread and melted cheese.

The result is a deeply savoury, comforting meal that's perfect for cooler evenings or whenever you're craving something hearty. While it requires patience, the final dish is well worth the effort.

RAMEN – JAPAN

BORSCHT – UKRAINE With its striking deep-red colour, Borscht is one of Eastern Europe's most recognisable soups. Made primarily from beetroot, it often includes cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and beef, creating a nutritious and filling meal. Traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs, Borscht offers an earthy sweetness that may be unfamiliar at first but quickly grows on anyone willing to try something different.

NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER – UNITED STATES Creamy, rich, and satisfying, New England Clam Chowder is a seafood lover's dream. Made with clams, potatoes, onions, celery, cream, and herbs, it's one of America's most iconic comfort foods. If fresh clams aren't available, you can adapt the recipe using fish, prawns, or other seafood while still enjoying the thick, velvety texture that makes this soup so popular.

Ramen has become a global favourite for good reason. Far beyond the instant noodles many people know, authentic ramen features a rich, slow-cooked broth served with wheat noodles, sliced meat, boiled eggs, vegetables, and fresh herbs. The beauty of ramen lies in its flexibility— you can customise it with chicken, beef, seafood, or even vegetarian ingredients, making it an ideal recipe for home cooks looking to experiment.

One of the joys of food is discovering how different cultures transform simple ingredients into memorable meals. Trying global soups doesn't require a passport, just a willingness to experiment in the kitchen. You might even find that your next favourite comfort meal comes from a country you've never visited. After all, great food has a remarkable way of connecting people, one bowl at a time.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

s e l c i n o r h c ’s y s s ca MY IMAGINATION "Tired of what?"

"Of having to prove myself every single time.

Every message, every call, every little thing becomes an interrogation."

I opened my mouth to defend myself, but he was already walking away.

"I need space."

The door to his workspace closed behind him.

The silence that followed was louder than our argument.

I cried on the couch for what felt like hours. My eyes were swollen, and my throat hurt. I kept replaying his words in my head. Maybe he was right. Maybe I did this too much. But that text... it looked so wrong.

I must have fallen asleep because when I opened my eyes, the apartment was dark.

Someone was touching my shoulder. I jerked up, heart racing, until I saw his face.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly. "I shouldn't have walked out like that."

I wiped my face with my sleeve. "I'm sorry too.

I just... I can't explain it. I saw that text and my brain went everywhere bad. I know it's not fair to you."

He sat down next to me and put his hand over my mouth gently. "Shh. It's okay. I'm sorry you had to see that text. It really was work. But I get why it looked wrong."

"I love you, Cassy," he said, and his voice cracked a little.

I started crying again, but this time it felt different. He pulled me closer and kissed me, soft at first, then deeper. His hands moved under my shirt, warm against my skin. I kissed him back harder, needing to feel close to him again.

We didn't make it to the bedroom. He pulled my shirt off on the couch, and I helped him with his. His mouth was everywhere; my neck, my breasts, my stomach. I arched up when his fingers slipped inside me, moving slow then faster as I got wetter.

"I need you," I whispered against his ear.

I

wish I could say I had learned to stop overthinking, but that would be a lie.

created ten different stories in my head.

It was something we argued about almost every month.

"Who's she?" I asked, trying to sound calm.

That afternoon started like every other normal day. We were both in the living room, doing our own thing. He was replying to a few messages while I scrolled through my phone.

Then his phone buzzed again. He stood up to get water, leaving it on the table.

I picked up his phone and showed him.

I wasn't trying to snoop.

At least, that's what I kept telling myself.

He looked at me, confused. "Who?"

"Cassy, seriously?"

He moved deep and steady, not rushing. Each thrust pushed me further into the cushions. I could feel every inch of him, the way he stretched me, the way he knew exactly how to angle his hips to hit the right spot.

"So I'm supposed to pretend I didn't see that?"

"Don't stop," I begged, digging my nails into his back.

He sighed. "Can we not do this again?"

He went faster, breathing hard against my neck. I came first, clenching around him, my whole body shaking. He followed right after, pushing deep one last time as he came inside me.

His face changed immediately.

"Do what? Ask questions? Is that now a crime?"

The message popped up on the screen before He rubbed his forehead. "You're already assuming the worst." it went off.

"Because it looks bad!"

"I really enjoyed yesterday."

My heart dropped.

Yesterday? Enjoyed what?

By the time he came back, I had already

He pushed his pants down and positioned himself between my legs. When he pushed inside me, we both made sounds at the same time. He felt so good, so familiar. I wrapped my legs around his waist and held onto his shoulders.

"No, because you always assume the worst."

Afterwards, he didn't pull out right away. He stayed on top of me, both of us sweaty and breathing hard. He kissed my forehead, my cheeks, my lips again.

His words stung.

"I really do love you," he said.

"You know what?" he said, shaking his head. "I'm tired."

He smiled against my skin. "We'll figure it out together."

"I know," I whispered back. "I'm working on it."

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THEWILL THEWILL DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN •• www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 288 • August 16, 2026

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Youtube Music)

MOVIE REVIEW:

The Invite

T

he Invite is a dramedy from the dinner-partygone-awry genre about a marriage and whether a sex party might save it – or will it make it go boom? It’s extremely savvy, very funny and packs an emotional punch. It stars Seth Rogen, Olivia Wilde, Penelope Cruz and Edward Norton – and if there is more pleasure to be had than watching great actors behaving badly, I would genuinely wish to know about it.

It opens with a quote from Oscar Wilde: ‘One should always be in love. That is the reason one should never marry.’ Joe and Angela’s marriage is hanging by a thread. Joe (Rogen), who was once in a rock band, now teaches at a second-rate music school. He arrives home angry at life, angry at his tiny bike: ‘The wheels are so small you have to pedal four times to get one proper wheel rotation out of it.’

a Spanish stage play by Cesc Gay. And the director, Olivia Wilde – who also plays Angela – refuses to open things up; we stay in the apartment throughout. We see that Angela has done a good job. She tiled the vintage bathroom herself. It’s beautiful.

The neighbours are Hawk (Norton), a firefighter, and Pina, a psychotherapist and sexologist.

They are sexually adventurous and have no shame in admitting that the loud sex noises could be them, but it could equally be coming from one of the sex parties they regularly host. They are here to invite them to one. (Hence: The Invite.) Or why not have one now, here, today? Angela and Joe are shocked, appalled and… excited. Will they? Won’t they?

The comedy flows. You’ll laugh quite a bit, and then there is a tonal shift in the third act that takes us into more sober, reflective territory, as we’re asked to consider compassion and forgiveness. The film critic Roger Ebert once said a film is not about what it’s about; it’s how it goes about it. You could say the opposite of Angela and Joe’s constant fighting. It’s not how they go about it that matters but what it’s about, which will be revealed, quite tenderly.

The film is sharply written and has a frenetic energy, despite us He is horrified to discover that never leaving that apartment. she has invited their upstairs And the cast look as though they neighbours for dinner. She are enjoying themselves as they insists that she told him. cut loose. That said, Angela’s He insists that she didn’t. neuroticism could have been They have been married 15 annoying had Wilde not chosen years, and fighting is their to portray her as a bundle of style. Has he bought the repressed desires. She turns wine as instructed? He has out surprisingly sympathetic. not. Bicker, bicker, bicker. He As does Rogen, who shows he’s dislikes these neighbours as quite capable of emotional depth they can hear their loud sex when he puts his mind to it. Cruz, noises at night. He dislikes meanwhile, is wonderfully Cruz, encountering the man in the bringing charisma and sexual lift. ‘The eye contact is off the magnetism in spades, and Norton, scale.’ as the insufferably smug Hawk, introduces a farcical element.

He is further horrified to discover that she has A word of advice, however. If your purchased a new expensive marriage has gone off the boil, sex rug in order to impress their parties really aren’t the answer. (Or guests. All her passion – and are they?) sexual frustration – has gone Rating: 7.5/10 into renovating their San Francisco apartment.

The film is an adaptation of

PAGE 20

Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Spotify)

I was engaged all through this one!

Sam Gellaitry - Assumptions - Kaytranada Edit

Lesléy - Sauvignon Blanc

Davido - Already Falling

Freddie Gibbs - Lavish Habits

Baby Keem - House Money

Asake - Ako - Live in London

a caricature for comic WATCH OF THE WEEK character, relief. Yet, over the years, the

TED LASSO SEASON 4

E

veryone’s favourite football coach is back. Ted Lasso has been forced to return from the US to the UK to coach the AFC Richmond women’s team. And it is here that Lasso, the character, mirrors Lasso the show, which Apple TV had to bring back for a fourth season despite neatly wrapping up the character’s arc in the season 3 finale. Season 4 was a risky proposition, and it starts shakily, but to the relief of anyone who has liked this heartwarming show, it gets back on track, even if it now carries the hint of a predictable formula in its narrative.

Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) is living a quiet life in the US with his family when Rebecca Walton (Hannah Waddingham), his former boss, coaxes him to return to London and take up the coaching job for the women’s team at AFC Richmond. Lasso reunites with his trusted assistant, Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt), but must also contend with the reclusive, silent women’s coach, Alice Chilton (Tanya Reynolds).

But more importantly, he must find a way to break through to the women’s team when even entering the locker room unannounced is something he can no longer do.

Ted Lasso had no business getting 3 seasons. It was created out of a joke

show - and the character - kept evolving, while maintaining its identity. What has worked for Ted Lasso is this unique ability to be relatable and grounded while featuring characters and situations that range from batshit crazy to mildly zany. This show does not deal in normal. In this age of streaming demands and commercial pressures, it is a challenge to maintain that innocent irreverence.

In season 4, the show manages to keep that tone alive. A typical way American sitcoms degrade over the seasons is that their characters become caricatures of themselves, as writers accentuate the absurdities and downplay the humanity. But despite already being a caricature, Ted Lasso avoids this curse. The characters remain human. Their motivation, conflicts, and hurdles are all very realworld.

Just that they deal with it in their unusually quirky manner.

Jungle - Someday, Somewhere However, a sense of sameness and predictability does creep into season 4. The existing characters retain their nature and that balance of humanity and quirkiness, but it seems the creators went a bit overboard with the eccentricities of the new additions. Many of the new characters seem to have that added zaniness as they try to fit into this world, as if the writers want them to fit the tropes of lovable idiots. The same goes for certain plotlines in the season, which feel too laboured and manufactured, lacking the realworld spontaneity of the first three seasons.