can’t believe it’s our fourth anniversary; it feels like I blinked, and suddenly it’s four years later. In those four years, we have grown as a magazine; for one, Instagram verified us, which was exciting news. The four years haven’t been without challenges; there were times when we struggled to get cover features, but somehow, God saw us through.
At this point, I also want to thank my small but efficient team for their hard work. You guys do good work, and I’m grateful for you. Many people think what we do is easy, but I must tell you that coming up with content every week for four years isn’t a piece of cake, so for our cover story this week, we can’t help but look at some of our favourite cover stories over the past year. You’ll find that on pages 8 to 10.
With the state of our economy right now, it’s not very likely that one can survive on one job, so we have an article about the best side hustles depending on what you enjoy doing naturally. Scroll to page 14 for this.
This week’s travel page highlights destinations couples can visit to rekindle their romance. I found the list very exciting. Therefore, I urge you to read it if you are looking to travel as a couple or a group of friends who want to explore. See page 11.
Many times, we underestimate the power of choosing the right lipstick. You see, lipstick isn’t just lipstick; there are different kinds, and knowing the right one to use goes a long way. I’ll let you find out the types of lipstick and how they work on page 12.
Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.
Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer
Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional 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.
FASHION
HOW TO STOP BUYING CLOTHES YOU NEVER WEAR
1. KNOW YOUR STYLE
Many people purchase clothing they never wear because they are unsure of their style. Trends and other people’s fashion choices might easily influence you if you don’t know what works for you. Analyse your wardrobe and determine which items you wear the most to fix this. Don’t follow every trend; stick to the looks that reassure and comfort you. Knowing your style will help you purchase items that accurately represent you, lowering the chance of regret.
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Have you ever discovered items in your closet that you have never worn? They may still have their tags on them, or you may have promised yourself you would wear them someday but never did. Trends and impulsive buying can quickly fill your closet with items that don’t fit your style or way of living. These six tips will help you shop more wisely if you’re sick of squandering cash on things you never wear.
2. SHOP WITH PURPOSE
Impulsive shopping, whether due to boredom, stress, or a sale, results in rarely worn clothing. Always have a clear purpose when you shop to avoid this. List what you need and ask yourself, “Do I have something similar?” “Do I intend to wear it at least ten times?” “Does it match the clothes I own?” You can only get a good deal if you plan to wear the item.
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5. TRY THE “ONEWEEK RULE” STICK TO A COLOUR PALETTE
Impulse purchases of clothing frequently result in regret. The one-week rule lessens this temptation. Hold off on purchasing anything you like for a week. Go ahead and do it if, after a week, you still feel it’s worthwhile. Most of the time, you will forget about it, proving that you don’t need it. This easy rule makes distinguishing between urgent needs and fleeting wants easier.
CONSIDER YOUR LIFESTYLE
Many people purchase clothing inappropriate for everyday activities, such as high heels, when they usually wear sneakers. Consider what you really wear to avoid this. Adapt your clothes to your way of living. Instead of purchasing clothing for a “fantasy life,” concentrate on what suits you. You will wear whatever you purchase when your wardrobe reflects your actual lifestyle.
Mixing and matching clothing is more difficult when your wardrobe is full of random colours. To ensure easy coordination, select a few basic hues that complement each other and fit you well. Build your wardrobe around these hues. When your clothes match, you can style them in several ways, increasing the use of each piece.
6.
INVEST IN QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY
Fast fashion makes it easy to purchase a lot of inexpensive clothing, but they rarely last. Rather than purchasing five low-quality items, spend on one well-made item you will cherish and wear frequently. Choosing quality over quantity keeps your wardrobe functional and ultimately saves money.
CONCLUSION
It takes awareness and discipline to stop buying clothes you never wear. You may create a wardrobe that works for you by knowing your style, buying with purpose, waiting before purchases, considering your lifestyle, adhering to a colour scheme, and emphasising quality. You will have a closet full of clothes you truly love and wear in addition to saving money.
Z IS FOR ZIGZAG
Lifewas supposed to be a straight road. A clear path. A predictable unfolding of moments, choices, and dreams. But if you were to map it now, truly map it, it wouldn’t be a smooth, unwavering line. It would be wild, tangled, carved with scars and shaded by shadows. It would be a zigzag, jagged symphonies of heartbreak and hope, a testament to resilience, to survival, to the quiet strength of simply carrying on.
As I take Silent Symphonies on a new journey, I find myself lost in its pages once more, reliving, re-experiencing, re-feeling. A re-publication may be coming, but this story… This story will never stop pulling at the deepest corners of my heart. Have you read it? Do you want to? Reach out to me. Because stories like these, they aren’t just told. They are felt.
And at its centre—Leila.
Leila, whose last breath was not taken in silence but in echoes. Echoes of a life revisited, of memories folding in on themselves like soft pages of an old diary. Moments before she closed her eyes for the final time, she was speaking to her daughter, her mind lost in the past, weaving together the people,
the choices, the heartbreak that led her here.
She thought of Akash, her husband, her burden, her mistake, her destiny.
Did she ever truly believe he was her soulmate, or was he simply the man she chose when love was no longer a choice?
Did she go back to him out of fate, out of duty, out of some cruel trick of the universe? Or was it because the one man she truly loved, the one who set fire to her spirit, had been ripped from her grasp?
Was Kaobi her
soulmate? Or just a soul tie?
Was he the love of her life, or merely the most painful lesson?
She remembered how Kaobi made her feel, how he had been the one person who looked at her like she was poetry, not just a passage in a book. With him, love had been light, like a melody carried by the wind. There was laughter. There was ease. And there was that quiet kind of knowing, the one that doesn’t need words, only glances, only fingertips grazing across knuckles, only the way two bodies find each other in a crowded room as if drawn together by something older than time. But love, no matter how true, is not always enough.
Circumstances. Timing. Tragedy. The great thieves of the world. They took Kaobi from her, and in the empty space he left behind, Akash slipped in. Not because she wanted him, but because when life shatters your heart, you sometimes pick up the wrong pieces just to feel whole again.
She tried to love him. She tried to believe that if she stayed, if she forgave, if she endured the wounds, the lies, the betrayals, maybe, just maybe, she could rewrite fate. Maybe she could turn her suffering into something meaningful.
But there are some things that time cannot mend. Some wounds that love cannot heal. And now, lying on her deathbed, she wondered - was this how it was always meant to end? If she had chosen differently, would she still be here, staring into the eyes of her daughter, searching for remnants of herself in the shape of her lips, the tilt of her chin? Would she have lived a different life, a fuller life? Or does fate always find a way, no matter how hard we try to bend it to our will?
She sighed.
Life was never a straight line.
It had twisted and turned, tangled and unravelled, broken and rebuilt itself a thousand times over. And as she closed her eyes, she finally understood, there is no controlling the zigzag.
We love, we lose, we survive.
We do our best.
We heal where we can, and where we cannot, we learn to carry the weight.
Because if life refuses to be a straight line, then we must learn to dance through its zigzags. Be #Unshakable.
‘See’ you next week.
May 26, 2024
Africa Day isn’t just a celebration of Africa’s past and continuous achievements; it is also a day set apart to call for unity, solidarity, and progress across the continent. Regardless, it is celebrated annually on May 25 with respect to the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions that define the African continent. In this exciting cover story, we celebrated our present heroes who are making the continent proud in every aspect of life. We highlighted some individuals like Benedict Okey Oramah, Akinwunmi Adesina, Sarkodie, Rema, and Jade Osiberu, who have pushed the boundaries in their respective fields, reached the global stage, and put Africa on the map, making the world acknowledge their immense talent, knowledge, and resources in the beautiful continent of Africa.
CELEBRATING FOUR YEARS
OF EXEMPLARY IMPACT AND EXCELLENCE
Over the years, THEWILL DOWNTOWN has remained consistent with its mission to provide the best lifestyle content for you, our dear readers. As we celebrate four years of exemplary impact and excellence, we can’t help but reflect on a journey marked by in-depth interviews with trailblazing personalities, compelling feature stories, and an unwavering dedication to fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and wellness. Through the lens of our celebrated columnists, we have continued to spark conversations, inspire minds, and redefine media storytelling. Since its debut on February 14, 2021, we’ve been able to publish over 200 editions. This isn’t just about the years we’ve existed but about the impact we’ve made. To commemorate our fourth anniversary, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite excerpts that have captured the vision of our magazine over the last year.
June 30, 2024
Wale Ojo is an A-list actor celebrated for his dynamic roles in Nollywood and international films. With a career that has spanned decades, he has established himself as a prominent figure in African cinema, earning him accolades and a loyal fan base. In this issue, Wale Ojo spoke with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Johnson Chukwueke about his admirable career, how it began, how it’s going, and how he balances it with his personal life.
July 28, 2024
Dupe Olusola is a prime example of women who took leadership positions in fields dominated by men. Appointed as the Managing Director and CEO in 2020, Olusola became the second woman to run Transcorp Hotels Plc. Her four-year and nine-month tenure ended in January 2025, and during that time, Olusola redefined the company’s course. At a time when the world was manoeuvering the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic, she successfully turned the company into a beacon of excellence. She brought new ideas and creative approaches to the table, which helped Transcorp weather the storm the hospitality was facing at the time. In an engaging conversation with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Dupe Olusola, discussed her career, achievements, setbacks, and the hospitality industry.
September
01, 2024
Over the years, women have changed the definition of leadership in numerous fields like technology, aviation, film, architecture, and medicine, which men have historically controlled. These women are not just participating but also leading, innovating, and succeeding in every setting, from boardrooms to operating rooms, studios to aircraft cabins, encouraging the next generation to set greater goals and dream bigger. In this issue, we listed women like Mo Abudu, Adeola Ogunmola Sowemimo, Olajumoke Adenowo, and the like who have paved the way for innovation and leadership in their fields, shattering glass ceilings and creating new avenues that demonstrate how creativity and leadership know no gender.
October
06, 2024
Shaffy Bello can be regarded as one of the entertainment industry legends who has devoted her life to advancing the industry. Her perseverance, imagination, and hard work have paved the path for the next generation to succeed in an industry that is always evolving. In this insightful conversation, Shaffy Bello talked about her experience in Nollywood, her sense of style, staying true to herself in an evolving industry, and her strategies for staying relevant over the years.
October 27, 2024
October
13, 2024
In this cover story, Falz discussed how the current music scene needs him. In an interview with Eki Ogunbor, he talked about his music project and the intentionality he has been putting into his songs, In his words, he said, “My music generally always references everyday happenings, sometimes quite literally, other times with satire. I can also be very confrontational in my approach.”
In addition to providing entertainment, filmmakers have utilised their profession to promote social change and raise awareness of important issues such as women’s rights, domestic abuse, and other critical concerns. Omoni Oboli is among the Nollywood directors who have left a lasting impression on the movie industry. Over the years, she has been able to convey compelling and thought-provoking stories. In this cover story, Omoni Oboli discussed her journey as a filmmaker and how she continues to use her platform to drive conversations around social change. She also opens up about her personal life, including her recent experience of becoming a grandmother and what this new phase means for her personally and professionally.
December
08,
2024
Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti Uduaghan is also an excellent example of a woman who has broken boundaries and succeeded in previously male-dominated sectors, like politics. In Nigerian politics, she has established herself as a social entrepreneur, barrister, and fearless supporter of transparency and development. Most importantly, she has used her voice to advocate for justice and accountability, from exposing wrongdoing at the Ajaokuta Steel Mill to becoming the first female elected senator for Kogi state. In this interview, Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan discussed her political journey, challenges, and vision for a better Nigeria.
November
17,
2024
The political landscape in Nigeria has seen significant change over time, with democracy offering a platform for those dedicated to the nation’s development.
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., the Spokesman of the House of Representatives and representative of Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency, is a prime example of this dedication to effective governance. Over the years, he has utilised his position to promote change for the country and his constituents. His zeal for significant improvements and his commitment to effective leadership have made him a respected voice in the legislative assembly and an advocate for constructive change.
In an exciting conversation with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr. discussed his political career, his perspective on Nigeria, and the duties associated with his position.
Christmas Edition 2024
In this exciting Christmas edition of the year 2024, we had a conversation with Bimpe Onakoya, where she discussed her journey to becoming a makeup icon, her work with Maybelline, NY, Nigeria, the vision behind Elite Makeup Pro, and her thoughts on the evolving beauty landscape in Nigeria. Bimpe Onakoya is the CEO of Elite Beauty Pro, a brand where she provides beauty services to individuals and organisations. She is also the Artistic Director for Maybelline, NY, Nigeria. Throughout her long career, Bimpe has greatly impacted the industry, motivating many aspiring makeup artists with her achievements, such as being the first makeup artist from Africa to work at New York Fashion Week. We are giving her flowers while we still can.
January 19, 2025
Funke Felix-Adejumo, a Nigerian Bishop, educator, writer, marriage advisor, and humanitarian, is a visionary striving to make a difference, advocate for the underprivileged, and encourage others to follow in her footsteps. As the founder of the Funke Felix-Adejumo Foundation, she has restored women’s dignity and empowered them. She has also created life-changing projects like Grace Orphanage and a children’s hospital out of her devotion to glorify God and bless people. In her interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Funke FelixAdejumo discussed her life’s work, her vision for empowering women, and how she continues to impact society.
Travelling with your partner allows you to create new memories, share unique experiences, and strengthen your bond. Certain destinations are perfect for couples, whether you’re looking to bring back the spark of romance or enjoy quality time away from everyday routines. This week’s travel guide includes a few incredible spots worth adding to your couple’s travel bucket list.
Santorini, Greece: Sunset Bliss
To some, Santorini is the epitome of romance with its white-washed buildings, cliffside views, and iconic sunsets. Stroll hand-in-hand through the charming streets of Oia, take a catamaran cruise to explore hidden coves, or indulge in a candlelit dinner overlooking the Aegean Sea. The island’s tranquil vibe is perfect for couples seeking intimacy and unforgettable moments.
The Maldives: Private Paradise
The Maldives offers overwater villas, turquoise waters, and endless privacy for couples dreaming of secluded luxury. Spend your days snorkelling or diving together, enjoy spa treatments for two, or have a romantic beach dinner under the stars. This tropical escape allows you to focus entirely on your connection with one another. The Maldives is designed for couples seeking relaxation, intimacy, and the ultimate romantic getaway.
TRAVEL
REKINDLE ROMANCE
Travel Destinations For Couples
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Paris, France: The City of Love
No couple’s bucket list would be complete without Paris. This timeless destination offers countless romantic activities, from picnics under the Eiffel Tower to evening strolls along the Seine River. Explore worldclass museums like the Louvre, share a croissant in a cosy café, or take a day trip to the stunning Palace of Versailles. Lovers have a tradition of locking their love on the Pont des Arts bridge.
Zanzibar, Tanzania: Exotic Escape
Kyoto, Japan: Serenity And Culture
Kyoto’s serene beauty and rich cultural experiences make it a perfect destination for couples. Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marvel at golden temples like Kinkaku-ji, or enjoy a traditional tea ceremony together. If you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms create a magical atmosphere that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Feel free to dress in traditional Japanese attire, such as a kimono or yukata, and take a romantic stroll through the historic streets.
Zanzibar offers a mix of adventure and relaxation for something exotic and unique. The island boasts stunning beaches, historic charm in Stone Town, and opportunities for romantic dhow cruises at sunset. Whether you’re exploring spice farms, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or savouring Swahili cuisine, Zanzibar’s magic brings couples closer. One of the most pristine spots in Zanzibar is Nungwi Beach, a haven perfect for quiet moments together.
Travelling with your partner is more than just visiting new places; it’s about connecting on a deeper level, experiencing joy together, and building memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, or just a spontaneous getaway, these spots promise to reignite love and create stories you’ll cherish forever. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the world hand in hand!
5 DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIPSTICKS
How to Choose The Right One For You
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
More than just makeup, lipstick is a statement piece, a confidence enhancer, and a necessary part of any beauty routine. Choosing the best lipstick can be difficult because so many varieties are available. You might wonder which is better, between glossy or matte lipstick or cream or liquid lipstick. The truth is that the occasion, comfort level, and style influence the ideal lipstick. In this article, we’ll look at five different types of lipstick and help you decide which one suits you best.
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Matte lipsticks have a refined appearance with a smooth, dry, velvety finish. They provide vibrant colour with a single swipe because they are highly pigmented. Matte lipstick is for you if you enjoy a bright, long-lasting colour. They can, however, emphasise cracks or occasionally make lips feel dry due to their lack of moisture. Use a lip balm and exfoliate your lips before applying matte lipstick for optimal results. This type of lipstick is perfect for special events or instances where you don’t want to reapply constantly. The ideal option is matte lipstick if you like a dramatic, finished look and don’t mind a little dryness.
2.
CREAM LIPSTICK
Cream lipsticks strike the ideal balance between glossy and matte looks. They keep the lips hydrated and supple while adding a hint of gloss and rich colour. They are pleasant to wear due to their silky texture and offer superb colour payoff without overly drying. They are not as durable as matte lipsticks, though, and they are prone to transferring onto clothing or cups. Cream lipsticks look fantastic in the workplace and regularly. The best choice is cream lipstick if you want a lipstick that hydrates and adds colour without being overly shiny.
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5. MATTE LIPSTICK GLOSSY LIPSTICK
Your lips will appear plump and youthful thanks to the sheen and moisture that glossy lipsticks provide. Their formula is moisturising and silky, making them comfortable to wear. Glossy lipsticks don’t last as long as matte lipsticks; therefore, they must be reapplied frequently. Additionally, especially in warmer weather, they may feel a little sticky. On the other hand, they are ideal for everyday use and informal occasions when you want a dewy, fresh look. Glossy lipsticks are great for dry lips or if you prefer a softer, more natural look.
LIQUID LIPSTICK LIP STAIN
Liquid lipsticks are usually smudge-proof and long-wearing due to their high pigment richness. Depending on your taste, you can choose from matte and glossy formulas. The main benefits of liquid lipsticks are their vibrant colour and long-lasting strength. Nevertheless, they need to be applied precisely and might be drying, particularly the matte varieties. They are most appropriate for parties, special occasions, and long workdays when you don’t want to worry about touch-ups. Lip stains offer a long-lasting, sheer colour wash. Unlike conventional lipsticks, they give a natural, carefree look since they absorb into the lips. They don’t transfer or smear easily and are incredibly light. Nevertheless, lip stains have less colour intensity than standard lipsticks and can be drying if not topped with a lip balm before application. They are ideal for people who like a fresh, natural look and for minimal makeup days. Lip stains are a fantastic option if you prefer a low-maintenance beauty regimen and want colours that last all day without feeling heavy.
CONCLUSION
The key to selecting the ideal lipstick is determining what suits you the best. Matte or liquid lipsticks are better if you want long-lasting colours. If you want to stay hydrated, go for cream or glossy lipstick. Lip tints are also an excellent option for a modest, carefree style. Wear your lipstick with pride and let your lips speak for you because confidence is your best accessory, no matter what you decide.
PREGNANCY AND FITNESS
Safe Workouts For Expecting Mothers
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Pregnancyis a beautiful journey, but let’s be honest, it comes with its fair share of challenges. From morning sickness to backaches and swollen feet, your body is constantly changing. While resting is important, staying active can do wonders for you and your baby. Regular exercise during pregnancy can boost energy levels, improve mood, and even make labour a little easier. But not all workouts are pregnancy-friendly. To help you stay fit and safe, here are gentle yet effective exercises that will keep you moving while keeping your little one secure.
Walking 1.
Sometimes, the simplest workouts are the most effective. Walking is one of the safest and easiest ways for pregnant women to stay active. It’s low-impact, keeps your heart healthy, and helps with circulation, reducing swelling in your legs and feet. Plus, all you need is a comfortable pair of sneakers, and you’re good to go. Try to get at least 30 minutes of walking in daily.
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3.
Feeling heavy? Take the weight off—literally. Swimming and water aerobics are excellent ways to stay active without putting stress on your joints. The buoyancy of the water supports your growing belly while giving you a full-body workout. It can also help relieve swelling, back pain, and discomfort. Whether it’s simple laps or water-based exercises, this is a refreshing and safe way to stay fit.
Strength training can help maintain muscle tone and prevent common pregnancy aches. Light weights (or resistance bands) can strengthen your arms, back, and legs, which will be helpful when carrying your baby postdelivery. Stick to controlled movements, avoid heavy lifting, and always listen to your body. A few simple squats, bicep curls, and seated shoulder presses can go a long way.
Swimming And Water Aerobics Prenatal Yoga Strength Training With Light Weights
Yoga is a fantastic way to improve flexibility, ease tension, and stay calm during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga focuses on gentle stretches, breathing techniques, and relaxation, all of which can help during labour. Avoid deep twists or poses requiring lying flat on your back after the first trimester. Join a prenatal yoga class or follow online sessions tailored for expecting moms.
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4. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)
Kegels might not feel like a workout, but trust us, they’re game-changers for pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help with bladder control, support your growing belly, and even make labour easier. The best part? You can do them anywhere—sitting, standing, or lying down. Just squeeze and hold your pelvic muscles for a few seconds, then release. Repeat several times throughout the day.
Staying active during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. These five workouts are safe and effective and help you feel strong, energised, and prepared for childbirth. Just remember, listen to your body, stay hydrated, and consult your doctor before starting any new fitness routine. Pregnancy is a marathon, not a sprint, so take it at your own pace and enjoy the journey.
CAREER
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Have you ever dreamt of making money doing something you actually enjoy? Of course, you have; everyone has that dream. Welcome to the world of side hustles— where passion meets profit, and your bank account gets a little extra love.
Turning Passion Into Profit Side Hustles That Work
Whether you’re looking to escape the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle or simply turn your hobbies into cash, the right-side gig can be a game-changer. But let’s be honest: not all hustles are built to last, and everyone wants to build something that lasts. So, which ones are worth your time and effort? Here are a few solid side hustles that don’t just make extra cash but have the potential to grow into full-fledged businesses.
Handmade And Custom Products
If you love creating, selling handmade goods can be an enjoyable and profitable side hustle. Whether it’s jewellery, candles, home décor, or custom clothing, platforms like Etsy and Instagram allow you to showcase and sell your products. This passion can become a successful brand with unique craftsmanship and proper marketing.
Freelance Writing And Content Creation
If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a lucrative side hustle. Businesses always need content for their blogs, websites, and social media. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Medium make it easy to find opportunities. Whether blogging, copywriting, or ghostwriting, you can turn your love for storytelling into a steady income stream. As your portfolio grows, so does your earning potential.
Online Coaching And Consulting
Are you skilled in fitness, finance, career growth, or even parenting? If you are, coaching and consulting can be a great way to monetise your expertise. Many people are willing to pay for guidance, and platforms like Zoom and Teachable allow you to offer virtual sessions. This side hustle can evolve into a fullfledged business with the right branding and networking.
Social Media Management
Businesses are always looking for ways to enhance their online presence. Social media management could be your perfect side hustle if you have a knack for creating engaging posts, managing accounts, and analysing digital trends. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are often willing to pay for expert help to maintain their digital footprint. With consistent clients, this side gig can quickly grow into a marketing agency.
Affiliate Marketing And E-Commerce
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commission by promoting products and services. Platforms like Amazon Associates and ShareASale make it easy to get started. Similarly, dropshipping and e-commerce are booming, enabling you to sell products without holding inventory. This side hustle can turn into a thriving online business by leveraging digital marketing skills.
The best side hustles are the ones that align with your skills and passions while also having long-term growth potential. Whether you’re a writer, a creator, or a business-minded individual, there are numerous ways to turn your interests into profit. The key to success is consistency, quality service, and strategic branding. So, why wait? Start today and watch your side hustle evolve into something truly rewarding.
DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL
Right Under My Nose
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Ialwaysthought I had a good reason for being single at 25. The guys I liked never seemed to like me back, and the ones who did? Well, let’s just say the feeling wasn’t mutual. I figured maybe love wasn’t in the cards for me, at least not yet.
But one evening, boredom crept in like an uninvited guest. I was lounging on my couch, scrolling through endless media feeds, when Victor’s name popped up on my phone. He’d been on my case for months, constantly texting, always trying to get my attention. I usually ignored him or gave one-word replies. But that night? I thought, “Why not?”
“Hey,” I texted back. “Wanna grab dinner?”
His response was almost immediate.
“Sure! When and where?”
We settled on a cosy little restaurant downtown. I didn’t put too much effort into getting ready, just a simple dress, light makeup, and my hair pulled into a loose bun. I wasn’t expecting much. After all, this was just Victor.
But when I entered the restaurant and spotted him at the corner table, my breath caught in my throat. He looked so good. Victor was tall, with broad shoulders that perfectly filled out his crisp white shirt. His skin was rich, smooth, glowing, dark chocolate under the warm lights. His jawline was sharp, with a hint of stubble that made him look effortlessly rugged. But it was his eyes, deep, intense, and kind, that threw me off.
“Sandra,” he called out, standing to pull out a chair for me.
“Victor,” I replied, trying to mask my surprise. As we sat down and started talking, I found myself leaning in, hanging onto his every word. He spoke with a confidence that wasn’t arrogant but charming. His voice was deep and smooth, and his laughter… oh, his laughter was infectious. I couldn’t believe I had ignored him for so long.
Halfway through our meal, I realised I was struggling to concentrate. My mind kept drifting to how his lips curved when he smiled
and how his hands looked strong yet gentle. After dessert, he leaned back in his chair, giving me a playful look. “So,” he said, “do you want to come over? I’ve got this old photo album I’d love to show you.” I stared into his eyes, feeling a warmth spread through me. “Yes,” I whispered slowly, my voice laced with something I couldn’t quite place, anticipation, maybe? We drove to his place, a quiet apartment not too far from the restaurant. Inside, it was cosy and smelled faintly of cedarwood and something uniquely… him. He pulled out a photo album, and we sat on his couch, flipping through the pages. Our hands kept brushing against each other’s, sending little sparks of electricity up my arm. The tension between us was undeniable, thick enough to cut with a knife.
At one point, I looked up to find him staring at me. His gaze dropped to my lips, and
he leaned in and kissed me. His lips were soft and warm, and as they moved against mine, I felt something stir deep inside me. I kissed him back, pulling him closer. But then he pulled away, his breath ragged. “I’m sorry,” he murmured, his forehead resting against mine. “We shouldn’t be doing this. It’s too soon…” I cupped his face, looking into his eyes. “I decide what’s right and wrong,” I whispered, my voice steady and sure. Then, teasingly, I added, “Why don’t you lead me to your bedroom?” His eyes darkened with desire. Without another word, he scooped me up, carrying me down the hallway. Our lips never broke contact; each kiss deeper and more desperate than the last. In his bedroom, the world outside ceased to exist. Clothes were discarded carelessly, leaving a trail from the door to the bed. His touch was both gentle and commanding, sending shivers down my spine. Every kiss, every caress, felt like fire against my skin. He knew exactly where to touch and how to move, making my body sing in ways I never thought possible. We moved together in perfect harmony, our breaths mingling, hearts racing. The intensity built until it crashed over us like a tidal wave, leaving us tangled in the sheets, gasping and clinging to each other.
As we lay there afterwards, his arms wrapped around me, I felt an unexpected sense of peace. It wasn’t just the physical connection; it was something deeper, something I couldn’t quite put into words. I glanced at him, and he smiled, squeezing my hand.
At that moment, I realised something profound. Sometimes, the very thing we’re looking for comes from the most unexpected places. Maybe I had been so focused on what I thought I wanted that I overlooked what I truly needed.
Victor wasn’t just another guy vying for my attention. He was the one I hadn’t seen coming, and maybe, just maybe, he was exactly what I’d been waiting for all along. He was right under my nose.
First things first: Companion, writer-director Drew Hancock’s wickedly clever little horror thriller, has a key storytelling twist that needs to be addressed in order to discuss the film meaningfully. And it does not come at the end of the movie but near the beginning, so it’s not so much a spoiler as it is a level-set. (The juicy reveal is also given away in the movie’s trailers, so you very well may already know what’s coming.)
Now that everyone’s on the same page — if you don’t want to know, go see it and come back here after! — Companion confronts today’s realities of technology and AI with a darkly comic eye and a sly curl in its lip. It’s as techminded as an episode of Black Mirror, but one of its tricks is the way it subverts its perspective to turn the audience against the humans and put them on the side of the androids.
Yes, androids. That’s the first of several swerves, and it comes early in the story after plucky Iris (Sophie Thatcher) and slightly sheepish Josh (Jack Quaid) have met cute at a grocery store and fallen deeply in love. They’re off to one of Josh’s friends’ secluded homes for a weekend getaway, and Iris is nervous that Josh’s friends don’t like her and are unfairly cold toward her.
Upon arrival, Iris’ fears are loosely confirmed when Kat (Megan Suri) opens up and tells her she makes her feel “replaceable.” Why replaceable, of all descriptions?
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
That’s when the audience learns what Josh and his friends already know: Iris is a robot. Well, a sex-bot, if we’re being frank, and we are, because Hancock definitely is.
That little bit of information recontextualises what has happened up to this point in Companion, and it changes everything that comes after. But its not the only twist or surprise up Hancock›s sleeve, as he packs a wallop in his devilish feature film debut.
There’s a murder, a scheme, and a few more surprises that are too good to give away. Hancock’s playful script and tight execution play with general concerns about AI and our modern impulse to ignore the user agreements but flip them so we’re the bad guys. It’s like Terminator 2 for sex-bots, if the sex-bots were the ones doing the storytelling.
Thatcher (Heretic, TV’s Yellowjackets (new season this week, by the way!!!)) plays an engaging hero whose humanity is more than a switch that gets flipped. She’s a doting romantic who becomes a fierce survivalist when she needs to, and Thatcher is a tough, smart, relatable lead in what feels like a starmaking role.
And Quaid is appropriately smarmy as the story unfolds. He transforms from shy and sweet to menacing and controlling, his weakness and fragility always front and centre.
Companion weaponises his frail ego and turns it into a damnation of modern masculinity: In a world where our partners are customisable, what other aspects of ourselves are we losing?
As friends in the group, Lukas Gage and Harvey Guillén make appealing sidekicks — Gage, with his Ken dolllike blankness, is especially effective — and Rupert Friend is just over-thetop enough as a wealthy sleazebag with a tacky Russian accent.
Companion is a sharp, sleek thriller with a hip, modern edge to match its retro-chic aesthetic. Its twist gets you in the door, but it’s only the beginning of how it gleefully, deliciously spins viewers in circles and leaves them thinking about the coldness of our modern world.
An unexpectedly fun ride.
Rating:8/10
Marvel Animation’s Disney+ offerings have varied in quality, with the highs of X-Men ‘97 and I Am Groot countered somewhat by the lows of What If...?’s third and final season. With undeniably unique visuals and an unexpected cast of supporting characters, there have been concerns Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man might struggle to swing anywhere near the high bar set by Spider-Man: The Animated Series and The Spectacular Spider-Man. Not only is it more than a match for those predecessors, but those perceived weaknesses are what make the Marvel Studios series so inspired and among the best Spider-Man adaptations ever.
Over the course of 10 episodes, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man delivers a brilliantly clever new twist on Peter Parker’s origin story, some of the best web-swinging and fight scenes we’ve seen from this iconic character in any realm, and richly compelling story arcs for all its leads. Norman Osborn becoming Spidey’s mentor in place of Iron Man makes for gripping viewing, as does Lonnie Lincoln’s tragic journey from high school jock to potentially evolving into the Tombstone known and feared in the comics.
Harry Osborn, Nico Minoru, and Pearl Pangan all similarly bring a great deal to the table, making this return to Peter’s high school days feel fresh and relevant. Rather than standalone episodes, there’s an overarching story throughout this first season (the first of many, we hope), and whether it’s fun new takes on obscure characters like Speed-Demon and Carmela Black or watching as the Scorpion is unleashed in one of his deadliest forms to date, the show is constantly firing on all cylinders.
Octavius is a genuine delight and the best interpretation of that villain since Alfred Molina in 2004’s Spider-Man 2 Eugene Byrd, Grace Song, and Zeno Robinson similarly impress, and this entire ensemble definitely delivers.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man would benefit at times by focusing a little more on Peter than his supporting cast, while it can take some time to warm to characters not even the most die-hard comic book fans will necessarily be instantly familiar with. It’s sometimes hard not to wonder whether the show
Head writer Jeff Trammell has crafted a contemporary take on Spider-Man which, while heavily inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, takes many of its cues from those early comic book adventures dreamed up by Stan Lee. That’s evident from what proves to be utterly gorgeous animation: the colours pop off the screen, and these heroes and villains are brought to life through expressive character models, which often appear as if they’ve jumped straight off the page. In terms of the writing, there are ideas and moments here that have been conceived even more effectively on screen than what we’ve seen in Marvel Studios’ stellar Spider-Man trilogy. This is movie-quality storytelling on the small screen.
Hudson Thames makes for a truly superior Spider-Man with his voice-over work, though there’s not a bad performance to be found. Colman Domingo lends some heavyweight talent to the series as Norman Osborn, a character he makes all the more fascinating to spend time with. Hugh Dancy’s Otto
was handcuffed in terms of the villains it could use, as there are only really a handful of major names from the comics. Then again, why not pit Spidey against Butane and Big Donovan rather than those all-too-familiar foes he’s crossed paths with in animation and live-action countless times before?
Without a dull moment to be found and episode runtimes ranging from 27 - 30 minutes, Trammell packs in a lot of story and somehow never does a single character a disservice. Subplots are constantly revisited, and “To Be Continued...”-style cliffhangers will keep you coming back for more.
On occasion, the show splits the screen up like a comic book panel, and those are just one example of the care and dedication that went into making Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man a love letter to the source material. There are endless examples of fan-pleasing scenes, deep dives into the lore for hardcore fans, and heaps of genuine heart and emotion (we found ourselves punching the air with joy on more than one occasion). Crucially, not only does it serve as a great way for younger fans to get to know this hero in a contemporary setting, but longtime readers of Spidey’s exploits on the page will undoubtedly walk away happy. The end result is the ultimate Spider-Man TV series.
Rema - Baby (Is it a Crime)
Grover Washington, Jr.; Bill Withers - Just the Two of Us
DRAM; SZA - Caretaker (feat. SZA)
Etta James - At Last
Kacey Musgraves - Love Is A Wild Thing
Snoh Aalegra - I Want You Around
Victoria Monét; Bryson Tiller - We Might Even Be Falling In Love
