THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 10TH JANUARY 2021

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10, 2021

L E D O M P O T S ’ N O I H S A F

A I D A H P L A

R E H T D N A E L Y T S F O E R U T U F HE T N ...O

AY W N U

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...NOT IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN YOU’RE NOT IN STYLE

CONTENT Society ADEBOLA WILLIAMS AND KEHINDE DANIEL TIE THE KNOT PG 4

Fashion DRESSING COOL OVER NEW YEAR PG 6 5 MINUTES WITH MILKMAID CREW PG 7 BELOW THE KNEE PG 8-9 ASYMMETRICAL SHOULDERS PG 10-11 MATCH THE FACES PG 18-19

Alpha Dia, a Senegalese model, was discovered while working at a bar in Hamburg at the age of 22. He is listed on models.com‘s “Top 50 Male Models” list, a position every model aspires to be on. Dia recently put his busy schedule on hold to partake in the recently concluded ARISE Fashion Week ‘30 UNDER 30’. Alpha came, saw and conquered leaving him with fond memories of his brief stay in Nigeria. He speaks to Style Corespondent, ISIOMA USIADE on his journey so far in the world of Fashion.

FAT SHAMING PG 20 MASK ON, LIPSTICK ON! PG 22

photo credit: Jolaosho Wasiu Adebayo styling: Moses Ubite design: colrs

THISDAY STYLE FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR RUTH OSIME

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EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR

08111847086

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SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 CONTRIBUTORS RUKY SALAKO ISIOMA USIADE GUEST CORRESPONDENTS AZUKA OGUJIUBA ZINA ANUMUDU JOANNA MACGREGOR SEYI ALAWODE PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

As you are well aware, there is a second wave of the corona virus and this time around, it is 70% more contagious than the previous one. So of course, the number of affected victims has increased drastically! Before now, we only heard of people but now we hear the names of people we know. That this tidal wave has truly hit home is putting it mildly. The other day, a huge party was held behind my house. There were at least 500 people at the event.

When l peeked through the window in my bedroom, l was alarmed and aghast that l did not see one person wearing a mask! I wondered in horror whether we lived on two different planets! l watched people gyrating to the music and chatting away in groups without a care in the world. I must have spent like 10 good minutes straining my eye to see if l could see the much-needed black patch covering people’s noses and mouths but alas...l found none! I contemplated going there physically to stop the party or give out masks but something told me l would not get the reception l hoped for albeit a very wise move on my part. I silently prayed that there would not be a Covid outburst from such senseless and reckless move on their part. I’m sure l am not the only one that knows large crowds are a breeding ground for this virus that is no respecter of man! There have been too many deaths left behind its wake and up till now, the curve has not flattened! At a point l knew over 10 people battling with this virus and thankfully they have all lived to tell their tale... some were not so lucky.

Most people have become hermits in their homes and only step out if absolutely necessary. Others on the other hand, have refused to be deterred by this pandemic and still go out as usual. For those brave enough to do so, please wear a mask and by that l do not mean that transparent shield because it does not do much quite frankly. It’s just an aesthetic piece to show your makeup. A word of advice...if you are worried about your lipstick smudging, there is a piece in this edition about MASK-PROOF LIPSTICK. Please read and purchase for those of you who do not feel ‘complete’ without your feel-good lipstick. And anytime you step out...always remember...Covid is real! Stay safe.

Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Twitter: @thisdaystyleon | Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Website: www.thisdaystyle.ng

FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

OBY EZEKWESILI

ADEOLA AZEEZ

GOV & MRS GBENGA DANIEL, PARENTS OF THE BRIDE

NGOZI JIDEONWO

MRS BAMIDELE DAPO ABIODUN, FIRST LADY OGUN STATE

MR AND MRS WILLIAMS, PARENTS OF THE GROOM

ADEBOLA WILLIAMS & KEHINDE DANIEL TIE THE KNOT

Adebola Williams, the CEO RED | For Africa recently embarked on his blissful wedlock journey on Sunday, 27 December, 2020 as his family got introduced, the traditional way, to the family of Kehinde Daniel in Lagos.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the introduction ceremony will remain one of the biggest in 2020 that left people talking. It was more than an introduction as people from different walks of life storms former Governor Gbenga Daniel’s court. Accompanied by friends, family, and well-wishers including two-time Governor and current Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi; former Education Minister and Vice-President of the World Bank, Oby Ezekwesili, and other notable personalities, the colourful event was a celebration of love between families as they take a step further to their journey to forever.

The wedding introduction which was compered by veteran broadcaster, Yemi Sodimu saw the father of the bride, former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel and his wife, Yeye Olufunke Daniel play the quintessential host to guests from across the country who came to celebrate with them.

The colourful event which had saxophonist, Beejay Sax entertaining guests, attracted a lot of notable attendees including the wife of Ogun State Governor, Bamidele Abiodun; former Governorship Aspirant, Gboyega Isiaka; Banker and WIMBIZ board member, Adeola Azeez ; Actor, OmotolaJalade- Ekeinde; Media Personality, Toke Makinwa; Singer, Omawumi and associate alike.

ADEBOLA WILLIAMS & KEHINDE DANIEL

HON ROTIMI AMAECHI

STYLE & DESIGN

Dressing Cool NEW YEAR OVER

So, the big question this month is: How are we going to look hot, yet stay cool at Christmas and New Year? Here are some top tips to keep in mind when choosing an outfit.

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VISLIVIN LACE TRIM CAMISOLES

Find The Perfect Foundation

Finally, the holiday season is never complete without a sprinkling of sparkle.

BEVERLY OSU

Choose Breathable Fabric

Give careful thought to the fabrics you choose to wear before you leave the house. If you’re unsure, just ask yourself the simple question: Does it feel light and comfortable?

Avoid fabrics that have no breathability and absorption, as they won’t allow you to cool down if you sweat and will add to the discomfort that you may already be feeling.

Highlight Your Favourite Bits

Look to Influencers And Icons

Dress to showcase the areas that you love, instead of worrying about the parts of your body that you’re not happy with.

Don’t be afraid to look to other ladies for fashion inspiration. We love to see women of all ages rocking their own unique sense of style, not dictated by either age or size. There are so many amazing and inspiring women across all social-media platforms, particularly Instagram.

ADUKE BEY FOR GJETO AND LANRE DASILVA AJAYI

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MINUTES WITH

Sequins And Sparkles

ANTO LECKY

STYLE & DESIGN

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Dress in easy-to-remove layers to help minimise the extent of a hot flush.

A foundation layer is so important and for the party season, we are choosing a camisole as the perfect foundation piece. It fits perfectly and seamlessly underneath a blazer worn with slim-fit jeans, tailored trousers or palazzos and will look stylish should you need to expose the piece.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

THE MILKMAID OSCAR NOMINATED MOVIE FOR BEST FOREIGN FILM CATEGORY

DESMOND

SEUN

WRITER/PRODUCER/ DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

OVBIAGELE

SOWEMIMO

Desmond Ovbiagele worked for over a decade in investment banking before exiting to pursue a passion for movie production. He wrote, produced and directed his debut feature film, RENDER TO CAESAR, which was selected to screen in official competition at FESPACO, Africa’s largest film festival, in 2015, as well as at the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles. It also received awards for Best Screenplay at the Nollywood Movies Awards and Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards respectively, in addition to the award for Best International Feature Film at the Nile Diaspora International Film Festival in Kampala, Uganda.

THE MILKMAID, which he also wrote, produced and directed, is his second feature film When and where has your movie, The Milkmaid been launched?

The movie had had limited theatrical release S in Zimbabwe, Cameroon and Nigeria in November 2020. We are pursuing wide international release in 2021 on a major streaming platform.

There is an opening quote by at the beginning of your movie. What inspired you to use that quote?

“I know my mother will mourn for me. But to S the rest of the world, I am insignificant - a wild flower, a stray gust of wind, here for a moment, then gone just as suddenly, forever nameless and voiceless. I might as well never have lived.” by Yar Pullio (1997 - 2018) This is a quote by a fictional character in the movie to put the viewing audience in the main- frame for what they are about to see.

The film is dedicated to giving a voice to the many voiceless victims of insurgency who are ei- ther dead or are languishing in IDP camps and enduring further neglect by even family mem- bers and society at large. The movie seeks to humanize them and tell their stories from their own perspective and not just as statistics on the pages of a newspaper. The quote captures succinctly, how these victims feel in our society today which we hope to change through the movie.

How much research did you do to make your movie authentic?

Over 300 articles were read and reviewed D to craft the narrative that depicted the experiences and trauma of actual victims. This was confirmed when DSG Amina Mohammed of the UN confirmed she recognized some of these stories from when she met with Chibok girls.

How long did it take to put the script together?

D

Seun Sowemimo is a nationally recognized, board-certified general and weight-loss (bariatric) surgeon specializing in laparoscopic and minimally invasive weight-loss surgery in New Jersey USA. Dr. Seun Sowemimo earned his medical degree at the University of Lagos and completed his residency at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, followed by fellowship training in Laparoscopic and Bariatric surgery at Yale University, Hospital of St. Raphael. A fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS) and the Ameri- can College of Surgeons (FACS), Dr. Sowemimo maintains a life-long interest in the creative arts and their capacity for effecting positive social interventions.

the script was put together in about six weeks and was then adapted during filming to some of the realities of the location.

What key things did you put in play to make the movie good enough to have been nominated for the Oscars under the Best Foreign Film category?

It starts with a script and story that is S authentic gripping and captivating. Then using the best in class tools available in the movie making industry to project that on-screen for an immersive experience. The camera used, Arri Alexa Mini, has been used in last seven movies to win Best Picture at the oscars and an original score was crafted to set the mood and the tempo of the movie. Internationally acclaimed professionals were engaged for the various aspects of the movie like Yinka Edwards for cinematography, Pat Nebo for production design and Obijie Our for custom design.

Apart from the story and technical aspects, the movie covers many elements such as showing the colour and vibrancy of the Hausa Fulani culture, sweeping breathtaking landscapes of the Mambilla plateau and Gashaka areas of Taraba state which are a hidden national treasure and historical elements of the Bantu people, an ancient black tribe.

Additionally a movie seeking oscar nomination usually should have a narrative which carries significant meaning for an international audience and the The Milkmaid is addressing a current topical issue of national and international importance which is the insurgency.

The movie is a deep insight into the lives of women the Boko Haram men married whilst they were in capture. lt has been said that some of these women were successfully brainwashed into sharing the beliefs of their husbands while others were faced with mixed receptions on

their return to society. From your research what is your take on this?

Yes there are many instances of the Stockholm S syndrome described with people in these situations who become resigned to their fate and adopt a new lifestyle conforming with their captors. The pressure faced by these victims are unimaginable.

Also people with no significant value, purpose or employment in their lives being presented with an alternative purpose and ideology may be vulnerable.

Complicated by cold receptions to reintegrate into society even by family members who may see them as security risks or spies for insurgents, the situation becomes complicated. The end result often is the surviving victims are left in limbo.

You also somewhat put a human face to the perceived notion of the cold-heartedness of Boko Harem men. You portrayed a soldier plagued by guilt and also softened by love. ls this a realistic portrayal of men in the jungle?

Our research showed that the mindset of what D they do is not set in stone but is the outcome of indoctrinations and falsehoods that they’ve imbibed. They still share all the normal human yearnings and aspirations of regular people in the larger society.

What are you doing to create more awareness for your movie?

We have commenced a local and international S media campaign related to the selection of The Milkmaid as Nigeria’s representative to the Oscars for Best International Feature Film for 2021.

We are holding a live screening “An Evening with the Milkmaid” at Terra Kulture in Lagos on Sunday January 10th at 5pm to promote the movie and fundraise to support the movies ad- vancement at the Oscars.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

The newest and fabulously chic trend on the block right now are the midi-length ensembles. Who doesn’t love a good modish take on old silhouettes.

The midi length is when the hemline falls anywhere below the knee and above the ankle.

This trend notches up the ensemble in elegant ways and gives you enough room to flourish your look with accessories and footwear. From dresses to trousers,

MODEL FOR DEOLA SAGOE

MODEL FOR EJIRO AMOS TAFIRI

MODEL FOR LANRE DASILVA AJAYI

MODEL FOR LISA FOLAWIYO

this ‘60 style leaves room for a lot of

ARESE UGWU FOR WANNA SAMBO

experimentation.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

ee n K e h T w o l e B 8

E H T E V ABO

E L K N A

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ASYMMETRICAL SHOULDER

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

The New Off-Shoulder

We’ve tried it all; cold-shoulder, off-shoulder, drop shoulder! In all honesty, they have been around for so long now that stepping out of the house with any of these is too predictable. The newest fashion trend to join the show-yourshoulder bandwagon is assymetrical shoulder.

Now, on one hand, you get your dear full-sleeves on and on the other hand, you still get to show off your collar bones and arms with the sleeveless side. Best of both worlds, isn’t it? Having said that, it’s the edgy unevenness that grabs eyeballs and jazzes up your whole look.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

MODEL FOR LADUNNI LAMBO

MODEL FOR VICNATE

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MODEL FOR TZAR

MODEL FOR BOYEDOE

MODEL FOR ZIVA LAGOS

MODEL FOR WUMAN

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We are faster, closer and safer With our scale, expertise and deep desire to satisfy your needs, we will deliver exceptional experiences for the moments that matter the most to you.

Africa | Asia | Europe | Middle East

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

photo jolaosho wasiu adebayo styling moses ubite design tjwho

COVER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

Alpha Dia was discovered while working at a bar in Hamburg at the age of 22. When he started off his career, he didn’t feel very confident about the way he looked and naturally his parents wanted him to pursue a degree in business administration. But he chose to follow his heart and entered the very unforgiving world of modeling and has since excelled in it. So much so that last year, he was listed on models.com‘s “Top 50 Male Models” list, a position every model aspires to be on. Alpha is a Senegalese model who has graced the catwalks for brands like Hugo Boss, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Calvin Klein, Kenzo, Fenty x Puma, Givenchy, and Versace, Fendi, Les Hommes, L’Oreal, Fila, Missoni, Kith, Balmain, Y-3 and Off White.

He has also worked with high-end designers like Ann Demeulemeester, Christian Pellizzari, Roberto Cavalli, and Christian Dada, John Galliano, Paul Smith and Rick Owens. Not only that, Alpha has also been featured on the cover of several highly regarded magazines such as Numéro Homme, Document Journal, and MFF Magazine.He divides his between Senegal and Hamburg.

Dia’s calendar needless to say, is filled to the brim but he put his busy schedule on hold to partake in the recently concluded ARISE Fashion Week ‘30 UNDER 30’ because it was something he has always wanted to lend his name and face to!

Alpha came, saw and conquered leaving him with fond memories of his brief stay in Nigeria.

He speaks to Style Corespondent, ISIOMA USIADE on his journey so far in the world of Fashion.

A H P L A

A I D

Y! A W N U R E H T D N A LE Y T S F O E R TU U F E H T N O ...

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COVER

You are originally from Senegal but grew up in Germany. What was it like moving from Senegal to Germany so young, what challenges did you face and how did you overcome them to become the global success you are today?

I can remember well the exciting days before going to Germany. All my imagination was from the TV. My first week there was super exciting, so many new things to experience, I loved it. However, soon I started to miss home; my friends family and the familiarity of things. The warmth, sharing and caring that people gave me back home, I missed the most. Germany was different to what I was used to specially because of the language. In Senegal, I never felt differently by the way I look or my language. Learning the language was definitely key for a better integration in Germany. Now I feel almost home and I now speak five languages; Wolof, French, German, Italian and Spanish. l am now a combo of both places.

When you started modeling, was your family happy how about your plunge into this industry as African parents usually prefer their children study more conservative courses?

African parents are super caring about their children, they want them to always be in a better position then they are. Growing up in Europe, I felt my parents were even more caring and dictating with me and my siblings. Because understood the challenges we may face from not being German, growing up there left no room for failure. Education was very important but so was our African culture, my parents always wanted me to know my culture and it’s values. The values they taught me was that with respect, hard work, and commitment, I can become everything I want to be.

Where there any models who gave advise as your career grew or did you just learn the ropes along the way?

As I was not really into modeling and fashion, I didn’t have any role models but when I started, I got to know many good role models; African models like The Cabral brothers, Adonis Bossso, and actor-model Djimon Hounsou, inspired me as they showed me how to be a professional and successful model. Modeling and posing was something I developed during test shoots and I think the job gets better with confidence. The more shooting I did, l automatically become more confident and the results got better.

Firstly, very big congratulations to the organizers of ARISE, for successfully putting on such a great project during these most challenging times when other similar projects have struggled to happen. I am extremely proud to be have been part of such remarkable project especially in Africa.

Have you kept the same agent or have you had to change agents to enable you grow to the size you are today?

I have kept the same team, nothing has changed with my agency. It is really important for me to work with a professional team with good vision, people who know and understand me, so I can have blind trust they will represent and negotiate the best for me under my name.

Even though voted as the Top 50 by models. com, you are actually one of the top two black male models in the world of fashion. So you must have seen and modeled for top global brands.

What is your take on the collections showcased at the recently concluded ARISE Fashion Week 30 Under 30?

Thank you for the compliment! I still smile when I hear that, even 2,3,4 or 5 is crazy to me.

Firstly, very big congratulations to the organizers of ARISE, for successfully putting on such a great project during these most challenging times when other similar projects have struggled to happen. I am extremely proud to be have been part of such remarkable project especially in Africa.

The designers and creativity; I really was impressed by how much they have moved forward, away from the typical African-prints to create new styles and prints ; all art of fashion in Africa. The diversity of all 30 designers was impressive and there is still room for growth which is exciting.

Normally, we only see the stereotypical, very similar

work from designers from Africa, it’s nice to see the expansion in their talent and designs. African fashion has a promising future, its growing, its modern and with a global outlook but with an African feel.

I like the variety and the fact that they showed interesting wearable ready to wear collections and you could imagine someone wearing the pieces in any country just as they were shown on the runway.

It has been said that you gave up two very lucrative jobs with global brands just to partake in the ARISE show. What were these jobs? Is ARISE something you have always wanted to do and if so why?

Since I started modeling, some of my biggest support from the continent came from Nigeria, so I have always wanted to visit. When Desiree (from ARISE) talked to me about the ARISE 30 UNDER 30 project, I instantly felt it was a number one priority for me to be involved with as this project supporting and promoting the next generation, the future of African fashion and its business.

It became a priority for me and my agents helped to ensure it was possible for me to do on my schedule; let’s just say they couldn’t try to hold me because of the fact that this would be forever be under my skin, a memorable moment in my career to use my success to work with my brothers and sisters in Africa. ARISE is giving huge to African talents so it makes me proud to have participated and walk for ARISE Fashion Week.

Your recent visit was your first time in Nigeria.

What was the experience like for you from the people in general to the designers and models you met?

I traveled with my brother to Lagos; l couldn’t make mama more proud than sharing those moments with the family. My brother and I had an amazing time in Lagos. We felt so confident and loved being home in Africa. l am really thankful to my colleagues, for the welcome and love they gave to me. It is sometimes crazy when some people see you as one of their role models and you meet them in person working in their territory on the same level and see how much they appreciate your time and your actions... it’s very humbling and loving experience. The Designers were really nice and very involved, they wanted us to help them show their best. They were all so down to earth and really helpful to me.

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l have a very busy work schedule, in a month, I am lucky if get to spend the weekends at home, mostly I am always on the road.

Even with the Corona lockdowns, I still managed to take more than 80 flights this year for work.

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

weekends at home, mostly I am always on the road. Even with the Corona lockdowns, I still managed to take more than 80 flights this year for work.

My schedule is dictated by my jobs, I am grateful to be in a position were I can still work around the world, so I have to be ready at anytime to travel and show the best of my talent.

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Why do you think most designers today are in love with you...what do you think your best selling point is?

I think it is a mix of many things; I think you see beauty in everybody that comes with energy that describe the person. When I come to castings, I always try to be myself having the same energy I give to people no matter of their status. I like people and I am grateful to work with amazing talent people, I believe everyone has something special to give.

We hear you are repairing schools in Senegal and your proceeds from AFW this year will enable you execute some of these repairs. Can you tell us more about your charity ?

Yes I’m super excited about the outcome.

We are giving the school in my hometown a complete new look to improve the environment for better learning condition.

During the year, we are producing different projects that will encourage growth and sustainability in the Education sector amongst

How have you used your face to create more awareness about this cause you believe in?

My foundation bears my name as it keeps me accountable to its effectiveness. It is a young organization, however we have been impactful with grassroots community driven causes which have direct result in the community. Our aim is to use my reach and successes in fashion to help build platforms of changes for local communities, bringing together international corporations and people who want to be involved with projects that have less red-tape but are focused on direct person to person impact. We already collaborated with two international fashion companies on direct impact project for Senegal; Hugo Boss and COS. I m really excited about the future.

Naomi Campbell is a legend in your industry and still commands great respect and attention from the fashion world. You also did a photoshoot together while you were here in Nigeria. What key things have you learnt from her to also enable you leave a lasting legacy as she has?

The shoot was two hot days in Lagos and I definitely take a lot from Naomi. She is absolutely amazing. Strong, confident and absolutely caring. She made sure that I felt good all the time and was blowing wind into my face when I was sweating. Her patience really surprised me and we shot till midnight. I am inspired by her success in fashion and how she uses it to help others.

What do you think the ARISE brand has done for African designers over the years?

ARISE Fashion Week is an inspiring brand; it’s shown it is dedicated to showing Africa at its best, supporting the growth of Africa’s creative industries, giving them a platform to not only showcase and develop their business locally but also introducing them to the global stage.

A platform that is associated by the likes of Naomi and now Anna Wintour, will undoubtedly have a impact in the way the world views Africa and it’s fashion industries.

An example is Kenneth Ize, his association with ARISE has helped him develop a homegrown brand that is now ready to go global.

I walked in Kenneth Ize in his first international fashion show in Paris last year, it’s just so beautiful to see the growth of African brands like his. l am sure there will be many more successful fashion and business stories to come from ARISE. What advice will you give to upcoming models who want to be like you in a few years? What kind of challenges should they expect to face along the line and how best can they overcome these challenges?

Its really important to remain yourself and be patient with the process. Like with every job, you need time to grow and learn what the job requires. Fashion may look like fun but is a serious business, it’s a trillion dollar business globally, hiring hundreds of thousands of people. So when you get booked for a job, you need to take it seriously and deliver your best work, when you fail to do this you will likely not get booked again...this is a fact. You

need to be professional and try not to take things personally, fashion is great but it’s a business first and foremost.

What are your future goals, in your career and life in general?

I have many goals, but one of my main goals is to continue to use my success in the fashion industry to help develop projects and businesses that encourage the growth of local community in Senegal and Africa as a whole. Bringing people together to make life a little easier for those in need whilst helping those in need to become more selfsufficient by developing new modern businesses.

In the future would you like to move back to Senegal, or live between Europe and Africa?

I would like to live in Senegal again one day and still be strongly connected to the west so I can have effective input in the country’s growth. I really believe strongly in people in diaspora applying their knowledge and successes to help grow our homeland. Developing things back home and working for a better Africa is important, the diaspora plays an important role in Africa’s future. Africa’s capabilities are beyond and I am confident that with the right partnerships and structures in place we will definitely get there.

What are the life lessons you have learnt from travelling the world and being one of the world’s top models?

Wherever your success leads you, never forget where you come from.

Make sure that you always fit in the same shoes at home. Your family are important to keep you grounded and protected, a family that cares for you for a lifetime are the biggest stars, no matter where you are in life, a loving family will always be by your side.

If you could be granted one wish or change one thing, what would it be?

The empathy of all of us. I think that’s something we all need more of, especially in hard times like this.

Empathy breads compassion and sincerity, we all need this.

What do you want people to know about you?

I work hard and enjoy my life, my family and friends are very important to me. I am simple person yet complex in my approach to life and I believe in love, honour and respect of all people.

When Editor of American Vogue, Anna Wintour gave her stamp of approval to the ARISE Fashion Week 30 Under 30, how did you feel about the impact of such an act for the fashion industry in Africa?

I think it’s a good thing as it helps to bring attention to African talent and hopefully will opens doors. However, as Africans, we must also do our own supporting and promoting of each other, build relationships and businesses that don’t comprise who we are as people. Ultimately it is up to us to do the work, global connections are good to have but we are responsible for the

foundation we lay and work we put out there.

We as African must have a more united front so we can effectively benefit from the attention and help of people like Anna Wintour. I feel we are getting there and I am excited for the future.

More black models have been the face of big fashion campaigns and shows in the last four years especially last year. Has this helped in breaking down ceilings and how does this translate positively in the African fashion industry?

From the beginning of my career I’ve been lucky to work with people who appreciate diversity, the more the African model succeeds internationally and at home, the more attention we bring to Africa. Hopefully, our success will encourage investment in the African fashion industry, which in return, can generate and employ millions.

Africa is the future; it has a large young influential population; with the right investment, Africa fashion can develop and have a significant role globally. I have faith we will get there.

GIVENCHY

You were discovered quite late at the age of 22. But today at 28, you are one of the most sought after male models in the world. What is your work schedule like on an average month?

I think I was lucky to have been able to successfully start at an age were I already knew myself more, it made it easier for me to navigate the job and take it seriously from day one.

Starting at 22 is not for everyone, but for me it worked, I was more ground as I knew more about how your daily behavior can affect your life and future. I like to succeed at what I do and always work hard to achieve my goal. l have a very busy work schedule, in a month, I am lucky if get to spend the

young street kids, helping them develop and use their talents successfully. In the long run our aim is to improve their and those of lives of their families.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

salvatore ferragamo

Given the opportunity will you like to visit again?

Yes definitely, I need to come back for holidays. Lagos has a great ‘pushing’ energy I felt the same energy when I went to New York for the first time, it has so much to give.

AFW was a total success for me I would love to come back especially without a pandemic. I only imagine the power.

COVER

To be precise, as mentioned earlier, Models.com 2020 voted as you one of the world’s top models. In fact, four of you topped that list of which three are black! Yourself, Alton Mason, Naomi Campbell (lcon of the Year), Adut and Bella Hadi. What do you feel contributed to this success?

I’m humbled by this, there are so many great models.

I think my success is in God’s hands. I am grateful for my blessings so I work hard to preserve them. It’s important to me to do well for myself, my family and my culture.

What is your take on the African fashion industry in the near future? What needs to be done to achieve this so that the designers can become as prominent and successful as the models?

Africa is the future; it has a large young influential population; with the right investment, Africa fashion can develop and have a significant role globally. I have faith we will get there.

KENNETH IZE

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

VERSACE

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H C T A M S STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

IOMA

BY USIADE IS

E C FA THE

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STYLE & DESIGN The founder of Penthauz Records, he was born in August 1989 in Enugu State, Nigeria. He is known for his diverse musical mix of reggae, rap, R&B and hip hop and he is currently studying towards a Degree in Fashion Management in New York. He was featured on the Jamaican-American singer, Laza Morgan song titled “High on You” which topped many Caribbean music charts. He collaborated with Davido on the song “Gallardo” which won the Best Collaboration of the Year award at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

She is a Nigerian DJ, songwriter and musician who emerged as the winner of the first edition of The Glo X Factor in 2013 at the age of 29.

She first came to the limelight when her music group, Da Pulse emerged as the winner of the 2009 edition of the reality music competition, Star Quest. They further went on to release a hit song titled, Pray So Tey, and featured American rapper, Busta Rhymes in the remix. Sheis a single mother to a 15-year-old son and the multi-talented artiste is also the heroine of the Lekki Toll Gate Shooting.

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Born October 27, 1990, a lawyer, rapper, songwriter and actor. In 2016 he became well known after his song “Marry Me” featuring vocals from Poe and Yemi Alade. He won “Best Actor in a Comedy Movie/Series” at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for his role as Segun in Funke Akindele’s TV series Jenifa’s Diary. He currently owns an independent record label called Bahd Guys Records. In May 2018, he released a music video titled “This Is Nigeria” which was inspired by Childish Gambino’s “This is America”. It highlighted Nigerian issues including corruption and bribery.

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ty? i r b e l e c rite u o v a f r you w o n k ht. g u i r o y e b o t d l migh u o y How wel , s s gue a e k a t s Let’ Born on July 16, 1990, the afro pop artist hails from Lagos State. He broke into spotlight in 2009 when he featured on rapper, M. I Abaga’s song, “Fast Cars”. His break out single is “Holla at Your Boy” that was released in 2010. In 2011, he welcomed his first son, Boluwatife. He currently has three. He floats his own Record Label, Star Boy and just recently released an album titled ‘Made in Lagos’.

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He is a Nigerian entertainer, comedian, businessman and online media influencer notable for his expression ‘freaky, freaky ooin you’re doing well’. Born to a journalist father and an educationist mother. He is most known for his comedy skit where he portrays the lives of men who can’t seem to control themselves around women. Before he started making comedy skits, the internet sensation was already acting in movies and TV series and that is how he got his stage name.

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Fat SHAMING!

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

H C T A M THE

BY DONU KOGBARA

BATTLE OF THE BULGE I am 5 feet and 10 inches tall and 61 years old. I was an effortlessly super-slim 70kg till my late 40s, then the weight started to pile on. By my early 50s, I was 85kg.

But I didn’t become obese till my mid-50s.

I started this battle of the bulge on March 16th last year, when I weighed a whopping 120kg and measured 49-47-51 (chestwaist-hips) inches. And I’ve been struggling to shed excess lard since then.

I was at my happiest and most elegant when I was 70kg and a size 10 (UK sizing). But a woman of my current advanced age might look haggard – ill and starved even - in a totally fat-free body and face zone, so I’m taking the view that a bit of genteel padding does a sexuagenarian no harm.

And since I didn’t feel/look too bad when I was 85kg and a size 14, that’s the compromise I am aiming for.

It’s been a yo-yo ride.

My weight has, alas, fluctuated since I started this journey.

I’ve had weeks when I’ve lost a handful of kilos, weeks when I’ve regained every lost kilo and weeks when I haven’t gained or lost an ounce.

At one point last summer, my weight dropped to 106kg, but it had crept back up to 115kg by the autumn. And then I had a couple of good weeks in November and December when I dropped a couple of kilos. But the status quo is extremely gloomy because guess what?

I’ve gained several kilos since this column last appeared a month ago (I needed a festive break from work); and I now weigh 123kg!

It is scary, shocking, disappointing, embarrassing and just plain tacky that I’ve wound up being even fatter now than I was when I began to share my dieting and exercise struggles with you 9 months ago.

How did it happen?

Well, I gotta be truthful and say that despite telling you just before Christmas that I was planning to resist the nonstop binge-eating in which so many people indulge during the Yuletide season, I succumbed to temptation and demolished mountains of nice grub.

Matters were not helped by the fact that I have been in London for 3 weeks. Having been stuck in Abuja throughout 2020, I felt like a refugee when I landed at Heathrow Airport a week before Christmas.

The UK has been under the cosh for a while because of the British Government’s stringent Covidprevention restrictions.

Shortly after I arrived, non-essential shops were closed and UK inhabitants were informed that we could not host/attend parties, hang out in restaurants/bars or visit anyone or be visited by

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anyone.

So we’ve basically been incarcerated in our residences most of the time and have had to forget about socialising with friends/rellies and heading off to venues that provide food, drink, relaxation and fun.

Still, “essential” shops that have been allowed to stay open include great supermarkets that are full of quality provisions from all over the world. Meanwhile, though restaurants can’t have in-house diners, they are permitted to offer takeaways and deliveries.

Abuja has its strengths, but wonderful, cosmopolitan gastronomic experiences are exceedingly thin on the ground in the Federal Capital Territory; and I’ve been taking full advantage of the fact that London is like Heaven On A Plate if you are a gourmet and/ or gourmand.

OK, so I am a disgrace and the polar opposite of a positive role model. And if I were running this STYLE magazine, I’d have sacked any columnist who has spectacularly failed to be a shining example to styleconscious but chubby readers who need inspiration that will help them shed enough blubber to look chic in fashionable clothes.

Fortunately, my editor, Ruth Osime, is a tolerant soul; and she is kindly giving me more time in which to prove that I am not a totally useless and irredeemably obese slob, glutton and couch potato.

So Happy New Year, my dear ThisDay afficionados!

Please don’t give up on me. I beg you to stay with me as I try to drag myself back onto the straight and narrow and win this arduous battle of the bulge.

If you were also unable to kick fatness into touch in 2020 and are as annoyed with yourself as I am, let’s take the view that it is human to and forgivable to err but very possible to overcome weaknesses.

Long story short: Let’s embrace this challenge together and make 2021 our year of triumph. Let’s eat less, eat right, exercise and become healthier, slimmer, more attractive and more confident.

Let’s each choose a celebrity role model in terms of how we would like to look. Mine is the African-IndianAmerican Vice-President-Elect, Kamala Harris. I LOVE how she rocks super-sleek, beautifully cut trouser suits. And I am determined to join her in that league.

Who is YOUR role model?

Let me know!

DONU KOGBARA IS A VANGUARD NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST. Please feel free to share your thoughts about her weight loss journey on 0805 404 6887 or donzol2002@yahoo.co.uk

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STYLE & DESIGN

Mask On, Lipstick On!

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9376 Sunday, January 10, 2021

BY USIADE ISIOMA

mask-proof lipstick ROUGE HERMES MATTE LIPSTICK

Hermès lipstick is exactly that magical lipstick you need even when at home.

It glides on beautifully straight from the tube for a full-on lip look while under the mask.

LIP TATTO IN 571 NATURAL CRANBERRY

ROUGE HERMES MATTE LIPSTICK

This rosy, raspberry shade feels just as fierce with less upkeep, and should be your go-to summer vibe.

It’s really all in the texture, the long-wear tint glides on like a gloss but offers an opaque pigment and dries in seconds. True to its name, it’s like a tattoo: Thanks to the light-as-afeather finish. In honour of doing less for more, this matte and supremely long-lasting texture will truly hold your lips down without extra work with so much confidence knowing that there won’t be a mess underneath.

Safety comes first, but that doesn’t mean beauty has to be abandoned. Wearing lipstick while wearing a mask may not sound practical, but it’s possible with the right formula. Lipstick is one of the most moodboosting makeup products out there, and you should feel empowered to feel like your most beautified self while being a responsible citizen. Whether you’re wearing makeup to go on a socially distanced date, a trip to the grocery store, or to sit by yourself on your couch, take the liberty of wearing lipstick, whenever for whatever, just because it makes you feel good. From smudge-proof shades to transfer-free application tips, we’re showing you the mask-proof lipsticks we’ve had in rotation during quarantine, below.

LIP TATTO IN 571 NATURAL CRANBERRY

KATHERINA DOUGHERTY JESSICA

TOMFORD LIPSTICK IMPASSIONED

This lipstick imbues TOMFORD LIPSTICK IN instant confidence for IMPASSIONED you even on days when you are feeling less than formidable. They bring you back to far sexier occasions in your life, think meeting friends, crowded restaurants or city tours for hours. This lipstick is there to always give you that refreshing look.

FACE MASK

PURE COLOUR ENVY MATTE LIPSTICK IN 547

The formula is a matte, so it’ll stay on way longer than a balmy lipstick that doesn’t dry like a liquid lip. Applying multiple thin layers of the lipstick is key to making it last. If your mask does smudge it little, you can clean it up easily with your fingertips without making a mess. It goes with everything so you never have to worry about it clashing with other makeup or clothes.

GRACE

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GRACE PURE COLOUR ENVY MATTE LIPSTICK IN 547 WILDER

GLO MEGA DATA PLANS