THEWILL DOWNTOWN, November 26, 2023

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

CHEF TOLU EROS THRILLING CULINARY EXPERIENCE

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

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CONTENTS

EDITOR’S NOTE

12

BON APPÉTIT

13

Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

TRAVEL

I

first met Chef Tolu Eros about 10 years ago and immediately thought his cooking was distinct.

Years later, apart from his restaurant in Nigeria, he has opened two in the United States.

For Eros, it’s all about passion. He wants to make a difference in the culinary arts space by putting West African and Nigerian food on the global map. He intentionally uses his creations as a bridge that connects the world to the Nigerian culture while also using himself as a point of contact for other aspiring African chefs to see what is possible and to keep striving for excellence. He would like to debunk the idea that Nigerian food is too spicy, oily, and unrefined and to make it accessible, look presentable, and one of the world’s best and sought-after cuisines.

According to him, France, China, Italy and Japan all have their accolades, and Nigeria should too.

Read his inspiring story on pages 8 through 10.

By the time you read this, Christmas will be exactly a month away, so we wrote an article about getting ready for Christmas, where we point out little things to do to prepare your home for the festive season. You’ll find that on page 11.

We also highlight visa-free countries you can visit this Christmas on our travel page; that’s page 13.

Have you tried out our interactive pages? Click on any page titles on page 3, and it will take you to that page. Page 16, our movie review page, has also been upgraded. Click on the instructions underneath the QR codes to download the music playlist; you’ll love the songs.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

14

04-05 Fashion Trailblazers FASHION

07

Nigerian Designers Who Challenge Conventional Norms

Plant-Based Proteins Delicious Alternatives For Meat Lovers

Visa-Free Christmas Destinations Hair Color Chronicles

BEAUTY

Bold Hair Hues That Make a Statement

15 LIVING

Health And Fitness Guide For Busy Entrepreneurs

16

REVIEW

The Color Purple

Lube Beyond The DOWNTOWN Bedroom CONFIDENTIAL Tolu Eros 8-10 Chef Thrilling Culinary COVER

11

DÉCOR

Experience

Getting Ready For Christmas

WHAT YOU SAID V O L 3 N O. 4 6 • N O V E M B E R 1 2 , 2 0 2 3

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity

- Contributing Editor Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

LAGOS FASHION WEEK

THE MOST EPIC FASHION SHOWDOWN

INSTAGRAM

ChiChiamaka0066:

Onah

@onahluciaa

+2349088352246

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.

@Iamvivian_gold:

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Editor-at-Large: Danielle Loth Online Editor: Ntianu Obiora Writer: Ijeoma Ezeanyika Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’ Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

Dorcas Akintoye 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.

@Queenets50

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

FASHION

FASHION TRAILBLAZERS NIGERIAN DESIGNERS WHO CHALLENGE CONVENTIONAL NORMS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

N

igeria, renowned for its vivid colours, varied styles, and rich cultural legacy, has emerged as a hub for forward-thinking and creative fashion

(1) DEOLA SAGOE Fashion designer extraordinaire Deola Sagoe specialises in creating haute couture pieces. Her designs, which have stunning silhouettes, vivid patterns, and elaborate embellishments, exude ageless beauty.

Deola crafts clothing akin to works of art, evoking the spirit of Nigerian culture in a contemporary and alluring manner by fusing rich textiles with vivid colours.

The capacity to push limits and challenge conventional norms is what distinguishes Deola Sagoe. Her designs have a universal appeal and cut across cultural barriers.

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designers. In a world where tradition and modernity collide, several designers have emerged to defy accepted wisdom and redefine the fashion business locally

and internationally. This piece will examine seven Nigerian fashion trailblazers who are fearlessly rewriting the rules and pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion norms.

(2) ADE BAKERE Ade Bakare is one of the highly skilled fashion designers in Nigeria. Among his notable cities of influence are Paris, Madrid, and Brazil, and he founded Ade Bakare Couture in London.

He unveiled Bakare Breeze, a reasonably priced diffusion line that features a selection of bridal gowns for the style-conscious bride, award-winning signature jersey dresses paired with ethnic textile Adire, and several silk and chiffon kaftans, boubous, and Bubas and Iros.

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

FASHION (3) ZIZI CARDOW When it comes to modern African fashion, Zizi Cardow leads the way.

Her clothing appeared on the catwalks in South Africa, Italy, France, and the UK in 2001; this marked the beginning of the spread of her designs throughout the continent and beyond.

Zizi’s designs reflect her passion for rich hues, elaborate patterns, and conventional textiles. Her creations have been worn by well-known figures both in and outside Nigeria, and she has played a significant role in introducing Nigerian fashion to the global stage.

(4) ADEBAYO OKE-LAWAL Established by Adebayo OkeLawal, Orange Culture is a fashion label that redefines Nigerian fashion while challenging gender norms.

Orange Culture embraces individualism and promotes self-expression with a focus on gender-neutral designs.

The collections by Orange Culture blend modern and traditional features and unique silhouettes. The brand promotes inclusivity and diversity by producing apparel that defies social conventions and celebrates unique styles.

(6) VEEKEE JAMES

One designer who has made such an impression with her designs and work style is Victoria James, also known as Veekee James. The businesswoman, born in Akwa Ibom, is wellknown for her illusion and stunning gowns, most of which are worn for red-carpet events and weddings.

She has a mastery of using her clothes to mould the female form.

She, therefore, created styles that are popular for their accentuated hips and boobs with snatched waists.

With innovative designs pushing Nigerian fashion’s boundaries, Veekee James challenges the conventional norm.

(5) MAI ATAFO Nigerian menswear has been redefined in large part by fashion designer Ohimai Atafo. Ohimai Atafo has blazed a path in the Nigerian fashion industry with his painstaking craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The exquisite tailoring, chic aesthetics, and modern flare characterising Ohimai Atafo’s designs are well renowned. He has successfully bridged the gap between contemporary menswear and traditional Nigerian clothing, creating a distinctive blend that appeals to the sophisticated modern man.

(7) TOYIN LAWANI

Tiannah’s Place Empire, the fashion label of Nigerian creative director and entrepreneur Toyin Lawani, has become a famous brand.

Lawani’s brand is defined by her recognisable style, which she has consistently included in her fashion designs. From luxury couture to casual clothing, she offers a variety of distinctive fashion concepts that appeal to distinct market niches.

Through her daring and varied works, she consistently redefines conventional fashion standards while exploring various fashion genres, from couture to ready-to-wear.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

Lube Beyond The Bedroom

SURPRISING ALTERNATIVE USES YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT DIY MANICURE AND AID 3.PEDICURE Painting your nails perfectly can be a challenging task. To prevent smudging or sticking, use lube as a barrier. Apply a thin layer around your nail bed before polishing. Any excess nail polish will wipe away easily, leaving you with a flawless finish.

5. RUST REMOVER

Are you dealing with corroded nuts, bolts, or screws? Fortunately, lube is a helpful tool. Use a wrench or pair of pliers to remove the hard-to-loosen rusted portion after lubricating the affected region and letting it set for a short while. You can avoid wasting time and irritation by using this approach.

BICYCLE CHAIN 4.REVIVER

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE The bedroom is frequently the first place that comes to mind when we think of lubricants. But there is more to lubrication than what the eyes can see! We’ll reveal six unexpected lubricant uses in this article that you probably didn’t know existed. These innovative uses go beyond the obvious and present useful answers to problems that arise frequently.

Cycling enthusiasts understand the value of a well-kept bike chain. The chain on your bicycle can benefit from lube, which has many other uses besides the bedroom.

To keep it operating smoothly and quietly, apply a small amount to the chain.

DOOR HINGE 2.QUIETER Squeaky door hinges can be incredibly annoying. Instead of enduring the noise, apply a thin layer of lube to the hinge pins. It will act as a lubricant, silencing those irritating squeaks.

No more waking up the whole house when you sneak to the kitchen for a midnight snack!

STUCK ZIPPER 1.SAVIOR Picture this: you’re getting ready for an important meeting, and your favourite dress zipper gets stuck.

Panic sets in. Don’t fret! A tiny dab of lube on the troublesome zipper can work wonders. Simply apply a small amount to the zipper teeth and watch it glide effortlessly.

6. SHAVING SENSATION

Razor burn or itchiness occasionally occurs after shaving, especially in delicate areas. Swap out your shaving cream for a premium water-based lubricant for a closer, more comfortable shave. It offers excellent glide, lowering the possibility of nicks and cuts.

CONCLUSION

Lube can be used for a variety of purposes outside of the bedroom.

It’s a multi-use solution that’s useful to have on hand for mending common annoyances like squeaky doors and stuck zippers, as well as helping with DIY manicures and bike maintenance. Therefore, the next time you grab that reliable bottle of lube, remember that it can be your go-to solution to problems in unforeseen circumstances. You’ll be astounded at the versatility of this inexpensive lubricant if you keep these alternate applications in mind.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER

CHEF TOLU EROS THRILLING CULINARY EXPERIENCE

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T

olu Eros is a chef you can classify as top tier, not just because of the position he has attained in life but because of his enviable self-esteem.

You cannot give what you do not have, and everything Eros has given to the world came from within him. From knowing what he wants to how to treat and be treated by people, this amiable chef is everything he thinks he is and even more. In an interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Ijeoma Ezeanyika, he talks about his culinary journey, proud chef moments, and a snippet of his life outside being a chef.

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER Passion is mainly fuelled by something; there is always a drive, a motivational force behind what we are passionate about. What is the driving force behind your passion for cooking?

Making a difference! Making a difference in the culinary arts space and putting West African and Nigerian food on the global map. I’m intentional about using my creations as a bridge that connects the world to my culture (our culture) while also using myself as a point of contact for other aspiring African chefs to see what is possible and to keep striving for excellence.

passion is putting West African and Nigerian cuisine on the Global Food Map — to debunk the idea that our food is too spicy, oily, and unrefined. To make it accessible, to make it look presentable, and to make it one of the best and sought-after cuisines in the world.

Everyone has that one person they look up to in admiration. Is there anyone like that for you, and why?

Yes, two people in particular, Chef Jose Andres, who also has a very similar immigrant story and has not only put the cuisine of his culture on the global food map, But also lent a voice to hunger by creating the World Central Kitchen, which literally feeds the world especially in times of crisis. Chef Andres has made a mark in the culinary space and inspires me daily. Also, Chef Wolfgang Puck is very similar; he has created multiple businesses providing work for large numbers of people and adding his own value to the food chain.

“My passion is putting West African and Nigerian cuisine on the Global Food Map — to debunk the idea that our food is too spicy, oily, and unrefined”

When you started cooking, did you ever envision yourself being where you are today? How does it feel to be here?

Absolutely.

I always knew that I was going to be successful at some point. As a matter of fact, I don’t think that I’ve achieved the level of success that I aspire to. I know I haven’t achieved the level of success I want, but it feels good to be here. And I know that the journey has just started, and I’m excited for what’s to come by the grace of God. You studied International Business Management in the United Kingdom. Does this have anything to do with your career as a chef?

Absolutely! Studying International Business Management gives you a general, holistic idea and understanding of business and International business management. Particularly, it gives you an understanding of emerging markets, the threats to entry, your strengths as an individual or an organisation, and how to navigate and turn those threats into strengths and opportunities.

Furthermore, it included everything from finance, which is involved in running a culinary organisation, to marketing and branding, which is highly important as a Chef.

What is Chef Tolu Eros like in the kitchen when you have your knife and spoon in your hands?

Chef Tolu Eros is very creative. A perfectionist who strives for perfection but also understands that there is beauty in imperfection. And so, in the kitchen, you’ll find me being fun, taking risks, trying out new things and finding a solution to every single problem.

What is that one dish you are always the most excited to prepare and why?

The honest truth is the unity jollof rice. The unity jollof rice because that one jollof rice is a labour of love. I call it the unity jollof rice because it brings together several nations in one. You must have heard about the friendly feud between the Ghanaian and Nigerian jollof. Now, all the other nations have joined the group chat. {laughs}. The unity jollof rice combines elements of some of them into one, allowing them to be celebrated together and be unified. It’s also symbolic for me in the sense that we are stronger when we come together.

Just like music collaborations, is there any chef you would love to be in the kitchen with and why?

The two I just mentioned, Chef Jose Andres and Chef Wolfgang Puck, because they’re just so inspirational to me, and I love their cooking styles.

Chef Jose Andres also has some amazing projects that I am sincerely looking forward to being a part of someday. Not to say that there are no others, but I think those two are just like my true go-to.

At the beginning of your journey, what were your career goals, and how far have you come in achieving them?

My goal was always to put West African and Nigerian cuisine on the global food map and consistently deliver an unforgettable culinary experience. I would say that I’ve gone very far right now, especially in the United States of America; Nigerian food has been given a space, particularly in California. There’s a lot more work to be done, and I’m hoping that over the next couple of years, we’ll be able to do more, not just in America but in Europe and Asia.

Describe an instance where you had to prepare a meal under pressure. Detail your experience from start to finish.

If I’m being honest, this is a daily thing. But I think one of the most recent ones I’ve had to face was when I had a guest who didn’t eat sugar. They could not consume any sugar, was gluten-free and Hallal, so we could not use any sort of shellfish. The menu was a seven-course, so for every single course, we had to create an alternative that gave the same experience in the same time frame that everyone else was expecting their dish to come out.

I did that by constantly thinking on my feet and working with my team to come up with ideas to be able to deliver the dishes without losing the integrity of the menu. It ended up being a beautiful dinner all around.

When was your proudest moment as a chef?

Um, my proudest moments as a chef. Hmm. There have been a lot of moments to be proud of, you know. I think the first one was when CNN did a feature on me in 2015, listing me as “the rising star out of the African food scene”, and Forbes wrote an article naming me “the man who knows what billionaires eat for lunch”.

And I think also being given the 01 visa listing as an alien of extraordinary abilities, and then carrying on to Hollywood and opening a private dining room that was listed as “Los Angeles most exciting pop-up restaurant”, and then even going on to open a test of concept restaurant ILE bistro that received multiple accolades from the press as top restaurant, best new restaurant exciting, best new dish, things like that. I’m grateful.

I think of recently receiving the global ambassadorship from JPMorgan Chase and the Global Ambassadorship from the (RED) Foundation, an HIV/AIDS foundation by Bono.

I’d say these count as some of my most recent successes and proud moments.

“There have been a lot of moments to be proud of, you How has it been know. I think the first one was for you managing your restaurants in when CNN did a feature on me in different parts of the world? How do 2015, listing me as “the rising star you do it?

Well, first of all out of the African food scene”,” is trying to find that balance between time zones. The honest truth is that it has not been easy, but with an amazing team across different parts of the world, I’ve been able to achieve a certain level of success. Also, managing a very stringent work-life balance allows me to have a life but also work. Taking breaks when necessary and relying on my team to execute without me necessarily micro-managing them.

You know, I’m only as strong as my team.

You are known by almost everyone for your culinary skills, even nicknamed the billionaire chef, but aside from that, what are the other sides of you, you would love the world to know?

I like to think that I’m a very fashionable guy. I definitely would find myself working in fashion.

I also have an acting side to me; it is definitely one of my life goals to play a role one day. I used to sing back in the day.

I don’t know if that is necessarily something I want to pursue, but I used to be an aspiring musician once upon a time.

Aside from that, one of my major strengths is creativity and branding. I would always say to my team that if I weren’t a culinary artist, I’d

“I like to think that I’m a very fashionable guy. I definitely would find myself working in fashion. I also have an acting side to me; it is definitely one of my life goals to play a role one day. I used to sing back in the day.”

It is evident that you are interested in sharing West African cuisine with the rest of the world. Why? Well, I think it’s about time West African cuisine got its place on the global food map. The likes of China, Italy, Japan, and France have all gotten their accolades when it comes to cuisine, but Nigerians and West Africans, not so much. My

be a brand strategist. I love the idea of creating brands, bringing them to life, and being able to communicate that to the end users.

Is there a dish you enjoy cooking the least? What do you do to ensure it is still prepared properly?

To be honest, anything that I do not like to eat, I do not cook, PERIOD! So I’d say there’s never really going to be a time when you will catch me in the kitchen cooking something I do not enjoy cooking. Like, what would be the point of that? To satisfy a client’s request? I’ll politely point them in the right direction of someone who makes it. I always say, “Cook what you love to cook; cook what you love to eat”.

How do you handle multicultural or multilingual employees?

By treating everyone as one and by making sure that everyone understands that they are a massive part of the team.

By also using technology in communication, you know, there are always options, like Google Translate. But generally, I try to make sure that they’re comfortable and they understand what the goal is.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER

Tell me about the time you had to handle a difficult employee.

That happens a lot, you know.

There are so many different people and temperaments in and around the kitchen. Not to pinpoint anyone, but recently, there was a team member who was dealing with a personal issue and was taking it out on the rest of the kitchen and the rest of the team, including myself, snapping a lot. My solution at the time was to have him step out of the kitchen. To go catch a breath, walk around and then come back with a better attitude into the kitchen.

What can’t you live without in the kitchen?

I don’t think I can live without fire in the kitchen.

What can I do without in the kitchen? Maybe water. Because if I didn’t have water in the

kitchen, I don’t think I’d be able to wash my hands. I might be able to wear gloves, but I’ll be unable to wash anything, so I’ll probably say water. I feel like there is always a substitute for everything else.

What qualities do you believe make a good chef?

A great sense of taste and sense of smell.

Those two things are the most important as far as I’m concerned.

You are opening an elevated fast-casual restaurant in Los Angeles. What inspired the idea?

I opened a test of concept earlier this year, and now we have moved into the next phase of that, which is a fundraise. And what inspired this was literally the need for a West African fast-casual restaurant that globally represents the culture; think Chipotle, think Cava, that was the inspiration — to give people access to Nigerian, West African food, quick, consistent, good quality and affordable.

How many stores do you plan to roll out with the fastcasual restaurant concept?

I mean, to be honest, I would leave that answer to our operating partners, but I think off the top of my head, I have somewhere around the 300 number.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER

GETTING READY FOR CHRISTMAS

BY IJEOMA EZEANYIKA

D

ecorating for Christmas is no easy feat.

Sure, you could snag a Christmas tree and throw some ornaments on it; however, many have loftier ambitions for their Christmas decor.

They want their homes to be thoroughly decked

out with Christmas cheer. Whether you’re planning to buy new decor, spruce up old favourites, or DIY some handmade stuff, here are some pro-Christmas decor tips to help you as you prepare for the season’s celebration.

DECLUTTER BEFORE DECORATING Resist the urge to display all the decor pieces you have. Keep the focus on your favourites. You will likely get highly excited during this time of the year and want to get everything out of storage for display. Feel free to declutter as you decorate. If the item is broken, junky, or outdated, toss it out.

Try as much as you can to stick with the pieces you love, are proud of, or have real sentimental value.

COMMIT TO JUST A FEW FOCAL POINTS Contrary to popular belief, you can craft a stunning space without loading up on decor. So, commit to just a few focal points and keep the decor around them relatively sparse. Make sure to avoid buying too much and cluttering the entire space. If everything is too much, nothing gets a chance to shine. It’s just like an overly bright room; you can’t even open your eyes to see how bright it is. Give the guest’s eyes a chance to appreciate the decor.

DECORATE YOUR WINDOW WITH A WREATH

DECORATE YOUR BEDROOM WITH A GARLAND

Add a pop of colour by hanging a wreath in every window. Nothing beats the charm of a simple wreath on every window. You can illuminate the wreath with a sleek candle or add red ribbons as a finishing touch.

Your bedroom might not be the first spot you think to decorate during this holiday season, but since it is where you start and end each day, it deserves its holiday cheer. So add a pop of festivity by hanging a garland above your bed, mounting it on your wall, or draping it along your headboard, or you can use it to dress up the bed shelf.

MAKE YOUR HELLO SCREAM OF FESTIVITY Your front door is the first thing a person will see when visiting your home. So, make sure it sets the tone for your holiday décor scheme. One easy way to do this is to purchase a wondrous wreath.

You can adorn it with a bow, outfit it with bells, or cover it in berry sprays.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BON APPÉTIT

Plant-Based Proteins Delicious Alternatives For Meat Lovers

A

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

ccepting plant-based proteins may seem like a culinary leap of faith to meat eaters. The realm of plant-based cuisine, on the other hand, is teeming with delectable substitutes that can appease even the most ardent carnivores. This article will introduce you to six delicious dishes that will make you think twice about eating meals primarily composed of meat.

(1) BLACK BEANS

In addition to being a common ingredient in many kitchens, black beans are a versatile source of plantbased protein. Black beans are a filling and protein-rich substitute for ground meat whether you’re making burritos, chilli, or veggie burgers.

(3) PORTOBELLO MUSHROOMS

(6) TOFU

Tofu, often known as bean curd, is a delicious and adaptable meat substitute. It takes on the flavours of the items it is cooked with, making it ideal for various recipes, from marinated tofu skewers on the grill to tofu scrambles for breakfast.

The texture and flavour of portobello mushrooms are meaty and umamirich. They can be grilled to create a scrumptious “portobello steak” or stuffed with spinach, cheese, and herbs to create a filling feast.

(2) LENTILS

The protein-rich legume known as lentils is available in a variety of hues, each with a distinctive flavour and texture. They work incredibly well to make tasty vegetarian burgers, substantial soups, and meatless bolognese.

(5) CHICKPEAS The primary component of hummus, chickpeas, are versatile and delicious. You may roast them for a crunchy snack or add them to curries, stews, and recipes with a Mediterranean flair to boost the protein content.

(4) QUINOA Quinoa, frequently referred to as a “complete protein,” is not only simple to get but also remarkably adaptable.

To create a satisfying, meatless lunch, use it as the foundation for grain bowls, stir-fries, or salads.

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CONCLUSION

Meat eaters can enjoy a variety of delectable and nutritious options while also making environmentally friendly decisions by adopting these six plant-based substitutes. Without the cholesterol and saturated fats commonly found in meat, these dishes not only provide great flavours but also essential nutrients.

So, the next time you want something meaty, try these plantbased options.

A whole new universe of tastes and textures could be revealed to you, making you forget about meat entirely.

VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

5

TRAVEL

VISA-FREE CHRISTMAS DESTINATIONS

T

BY IJEOMA EZEANYIKA

ravelling can be a therapeutic adventure filled with fun and glee. You are probably already searching for destinations where you would spend the Christmas holiday, but it could be a hassle when the destinations require a visa. Applying for visas can sometimes be a long and stressful process, so here is a list of unique Christmas holiday destinations that require no visa.

BARBADOS Breathe in the ocean air in Barbados. This phenomenal destination allows visa-free entry for Nigerians for up to six months.

The Caribbean Island is a beautiful holiday destination with picture-perfect beaches and breathtaking views. It is bound to be a surreal escape filled with unforgettable Christmas memories.

MALDIVES Maldives issues a 30-day visa on arrival to Nigerians. Have you ever imagined what it is like to swim alongside beautiful fishes in a clear blue ocean? Well, Maldives will help bring this imagination to reality; you will have to pinch yourself to make sure you are not dreaming. Dive and snorkel in the ocean and explore the breathtaking marine life of the Maldives this Christmas holiday.

SEYCHELLES UGANDA Uganda offers Nigerians visa on arrival, but if you don’t think you can be patient enough, you can use the e-visa service. Uganda has holiday activities like canoeing, chimpanzee tracking, boat cruises under the sun, and kayaking the Nile. Little wonder the great Winston Churchill referred to Uganda as the pearl of Africa. This fun-filled country will leave you with many unforgettable Christmas holiday memories.

Seychelles is another visa-free destination that only requires you to have a valid Nigerian passport to visit.

Enter a world filled with beautiful white beaches, jaw-dropping sunsets, delicious restaurants, and much more.

It has a range of luxurious hotels and family-run guesthouses where you can relax this Christmas holiday.

KENYA To visit Kenya, you will be issued a visa on arrival, or you can get it through the e-visa service. Kenya has intriguing adventures, from the bustling city of Nairobi to adventurefilled activities in the Tsavo East National Park. Get close to Africa’s most treasured wild animals this Christmas holiday in Kenya. Feed giraffes, come face to face with the king of the jungle, and watch the mighty buffalo fight head to head.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BEAUTY

Hair Colour Chronicles Bold Hair Hues That Make a Statement

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Y

our hair is the blank canvas to showcase your distinctive style in a world where self-expression has no boundaries. Ready to break free from the norm? Explore the vivid world of hair colour, where strong colours rule magnificently. With these six bold hair colours as bright as they are daring, get ready to attract attention and make a long-lasting fashion statement.

ELECTRIC BLUE 1.BRILLIANCE

When you want to stand out, why blend in? Make your hair a captivating hue of electric blue.

This colour is a definite way to make a fantastic debut, whether you’re sporting crisp, straight hair or voluminous curls. Let your hair speak for you and channel your inner mermaid!

2

. PASSIONATE PURPLE PASSION

Who says life has to be in one colour? With a seductive shade of purple, inject a blast of passion into your hair. This hue oozes inventiveness and self-assurance whether you choose a light lavender or a deep burgundy.

Get ready to rock a look that is both powerful and stunning.

3

. FIERY RED FLAMENCO

Embrace the blazing attraction of flaming red to ignite your sense of fashion. This colour exudes confidence and demands attention. Your hair will become a beacon of boldness that enhances every movement you make, whether you choose to embrace a blazing crimson or a more subdued auburn.

OUTRAGEOUS 4.ORANGE ZEST

Why not go all out with an extravagant orange splash if subtlety isn’t your thing? This shade is a lighthearted homage to your spirit of exploration. You’ll be walking on sunshine no matter the weather, with colours spanning from tangerine to sunset orange.

CONCLUSION

5

. MYSTICAL GREEN ENVY

With an enigmatic shade of green, unleash your inner woodland nymph. This colour, which ranges from Emeralds to teal, inspires feelings of magic and awe. Accept nature’s magic and let your hair tell its tale of evolution.

PINK 6.BOLD PANACHE

Pink is the colour of choice for individuals who dare to stand out. Whether you choose rose gold, bubblegum pink, or a vibrant shade that defies classification, pink hair exudes unabashed confidence. With each move you take, be prepared to express your distinct self.

Your options for hair colour are endless, and these striking shades are your pearls of uniqueness. Take advantage of the chance to transform your hair into a piece of art that reflects your individuality and sense of style. Let your hair colour make a statement that captures the courageous person you are. Don’t be afraid to leave your mark; embrace the adventure and create the trends.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

HEALTH

HEALTH AND FITNESS GUIDE FOR BUSY ENTREPRENEURS

BY IJEOMA EZEANYIKA

BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT STAYING ACTIVE As an entrepreneur, having your entire day consumed by a new idea is highly likely. While ideas are great, it is crucial to move around every hour.

You can do this by using the stairs rather than the elevator, parking a distance away so you can walk, taking random strolls, and if you have a dog, you should walk the dog occasionally instead of having your help do it.

T

he year is ending, so you are probably anxious about ensuring you achieve all your goals. This is a period where you are prone to focus solely on working hard and neglect your health and fitness. As a business owner, it is easy to forget that you must take care of yourself. However, like your business, you should know that your body needs care and attention to function properly. Leading a healthy lifestyle will benefit you and your business in the long run, as healthy people tend to be happier and more productive. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a busy schedule.

DON’T SKIP SUPPLEMENTS

SLEEP MORE Burning the midnight candle is something you are used to as an entrepreneur, which is understandable. However, you should be deliberate about getting more sleep. Schedule your sleep the same way you will schedule meetings. Your productivity will eventually be sapped by a lack of sleep, making you aloof and cranky. So, prioritise your sleep; this will boost your energy.

Eating healthy and providing your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals is essential, but sometimes, the list of nutrients to keep track of can become overwhelming. Even the most essential nutrients can slip through the crack on such occasions, so it is important never to skip supplements. Give your body the fuel it needs to run.

TRY DANCING Begin your day by dancing to your favourite song around your house once you get up. Since you never got to sign up for that gym membership, exchange it for dancing. Signing up for dance classes can also be an option if you do not hit the gym because you find it boring, but making time for the dance classes might not be easy either. Infusing dancing into your early morning routine might be the surest way for you to do some exercise.

DO NOT MISS YOUR REGULAR CHECKUPS Early detection has been a way a lot of health problems get controlled.

Circle a date in your calendar and be devoted to meeting your health appointments.

Better safe than sorry.

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VOL 3 NO. 48 • NOVEMBER 26, 2023

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

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

MOVIE REVIEW:

The Color Purple

chugs along without feeling bogged down by what could have easily felt like incessant musical numbers. There’s also a very welcome “show, don’t tell” quality about the film that just makes it sit well with me.

I

t’s a testament to the enduring impact of Alice Walker’s 1982 novel The Color Purple that there have been multiple adaptations on both stage and screen.

Steven Spielberg’s 1985 theatrical version was a stunningly apt translation of a decades-long tale of a bond that held firm against the interminable storm that billowed all through the lives of two sisters in early 1900s America.

The powerful performances by a starstudded cast that included Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, and Danny Glover, amongst many more, were backed by a superb soundtrack by the great Quincy Jones. The film was an instant hit, garnering 11 Oscar Nominations.

By 2005, a stage adaptation began production, and with a host of original show tunes worked into the plot, it was a massive hit on Broadway. Now, a theatrical musical version of this story is about to hit theatres. Does it have the same resonance as the three others before it, or is it doomed to the ‘remake graveyard’ that studios have been filling up alarmingly quickly in the last few years?

I am thrilled to tell you that this film is superb. In a way that could easily have gone wrong, Director Blitz Bazawule (Black is King) melds the best parts of this timeless story’s theatrical and stage adaptations. The film weaves together a story that hits almost precisely the same plot points as the 1985 version while using many of the song and dance sequences of the stage adaptation.

Audiences will be treated to a film that balances the gut-wrenching suffering of Celie’s journey with a multitude of upbeat, catchy musical numbers in a way that never feels out of place. The film is directed with a deft hand, with sharp pacing, brilliant editing (some of the match cuts in this film, wow) and a camera that never stops moving; the story

PAGE 16

The film may be shot excellently, but make no mistake, it’s the performances that make this thing soar.

The cast is pitch perfect (pun intended), with brilliant actorvocalists like Halle Bailey, Taraji P. Henson and Danielle Brooks (reprising her role from the stage play) present.

The beating heart of this film, though, is Fantasia Barrino in her feature film debut. Her portrayal of Celie’s physical and emotional abuse at the hand of Mr. (a wonderfully evil Colman Domingo) is a powerful display of pathos. You really do feel the pain in her soul on the centrepiece solo song “I’m Here”. Once she starts singing, baring Celie’s soul for all to hear, it’ll be hard not to be drawn close to tears. The remaining cast is a smattering of some of the most talented black actors in Hollywood, and to get the likes of H.E.R and Jean Batiste is a flex but a very welcome one. The musical numbers are nearly all superb. Songs like “Hell No” and “Shug Avery Comin’ to Town” had me humming all the way home.

I don’t have much to complain about with The Color Purple. Every musical number is choreographed superbly, and the film is never lacking a dash of colour in the otherwise rather drab period it’s set in. As mentioned earlier, the camera is never still. It swoops and pans and is in unique spots to capture the action. The attention to design on the sets (I had to check to know) and costumes are second to none, and the songs and dialogue are mixed perfectly. Somehow faithful to both the prior theatrical and stage adaptations, The Color Purple tells a tale of family, friendship, loss and a throughline of hope that keeps the whole thing afloat.

It’s great stuff all around.

Rating:9/10

WATCH OF THE WEEK

BLUE EYED SAMURAI Even if you are not usually a fan of animation, the cast of Blue Eye Samurai should make you look its way.

Kenneth Branagh, George Takei, Randall Park and Disney star Brenda Song take their parts in a huge, starry ensemble cast. But Maya Erskine is the lead as Mizu, the blue-eyed samurai of the title, who carves a gruesome path through 17th-century Japan on a mission to avenge those responsible for the death of her mother.

This is Edo-era Japan, in which borders have been sealed, and outsiders (and children born to outsiders) are considered to be “less than human”, “monsters”, and “impure”. Mizu’s blue eyes give her away as the child of a “white devil”. There are only four white men in Japan at this time, and she sets out to kill all of them. We see her tormented by the local children in flashbacks to her childhood. She is saved only by a blind sword maker who, believing her to be a boy – or perhaps simply pretending to – takes her in as his apprentice.

Her apprentice Ringo, who knows he is destined for greatness, provides some much-needed warmth and humour, as does the preening Taigen, another samurai Mizu has known since childhood. She ends up owing Taigen a battle-to-the-death, but their quarrels hint at more than simple rivalry and are rooted in mutual respect.

On the other end of the scale, Branagh’s villainous white man, Fowler, who imports weapons and opium and extorts money from the brothel owners, is a pure monster, prone to big, bad speeches that show just how evil he is. He is seemingly unstoppable and sequestered in an isolated island castle. For Mizu, this is a suitable challenge. great mountain ranges. But it is also gorgeous, not just in its snow-covered landscapes but in the painterly details throughout: a forest drips with ice, and a road filled with brothels is dappled with pink lights.

Mizu is so set on revenge that she is grave throughout, but there is a rich cast of characters to add the light and shade.

It takes itself seriously but rarely gets bogged down by earnestness. In the end, Blue Eye Samurai knows that its main selling point is an epic, violent tale of honour and revenge. Mizu is an outsider in many respects, making it easy to root for her in the seemingly endless series of fights that look, at first, to be unsurmountable. There are betrayals, double-crossings and plenty of moral compromises. This is smart, cinematic entertainment and an awful lot of fun.

One of the many pleasures of Blue Eye Samurai, and it is a real pleasure to watch, is its frequent fight scenes. Mizu is a legendary samurai with seemingly superhuman powers capable of taking on whole armies alone, slicing her way through trained guards and hired muscle with the ease of a hot knife sliding into warm butter.

You know when the Cynthia Erivo_ Jennifer Hudson - D’Angelo - Till It’s Done (Tutu) showcase battles are What About Love_ coming, and these are fantastically entertaining – can she really conquer four giant men known for their ruthlessness on a narrow cliff edge while injured? – but it is also filled with sudden and violent shocks. A seemingly civil conversation goes Janelle Monáe_ Doechii JAY-Z_ Gloria Carter - Smile south when, out of Phenomenal (feat. Doechii) nowhere, an arm gets sliced off.

It is very bloody and very gory. Teeth are pulled out and used as bullets. Limbs are severed with alarming frequency, and blood sprays and spurts with abandon.

The bodies do not so much pile up as form

Stevie Wonder - Love’s In Need Of Love Today

D’Angelo - Till It’s Done (Tutu)

Ella Fitzgerald_ Louis Armstrong They Can’t Take That Away From Me

Jimi Hendrix - Red House

Danielle Brooks_ Color Purple New Broadway Cast - Hell No!