Allure 28 February 2016

February 28, 2016

n o i h s a F e Th Edition

AISHA IGBINOVIA

LESLIE OKOYE

The Business of Looking Good

TOJU FOYEH

28/02 Contents

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e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

FASHION 4

Carpe Diem Presents Unseasonal Love

BEAUTY 13

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COVER STORY

The Business of Looking Good

High Six Facial Care

Editor’s Note Dollar now sells at N400! For anyone earning foreign currency, it’s champagne popping time but for the rest of us, it’s a blessing in disguise. You know why? For too long, we have been too irresponsible. As a people, as a government, Nigerians have been totally uncaring and unaccountable to themselves and their God, Who graciously blessed them with unimaginable riches; both human and mineral resources.

How can any sane person explain the squandering of our vast riches? To the extent that we are wringing our hands and our economy at near buckle-point because oil prices dropped! So, we are not earning enough foreign exchange? Is that why the economy should grind to a halt? Isn’t it time our leaders put on their thinking cap, for once, and take the bull by the horn?

History is replete with leaders who turned their lemon to lemonade when faced with similar challenges. Chairman Mao of China closed the borders of his country for many years. Now, China is the second largest economy in the world. Late Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore and Suharto of Indonesia turned their near comatose economies to buoyancy. Our leader, respected for all the good he seemed to stand for, can do it too. He just needs to take the bull from you-know-where and get it moving.

This is why our cover feature, today, is so poignant! Nobody is looking at the business of fashion as a huge source of foreign exchange influx. Yet, fashion can bring in the trillions we so desperately need to rev the economy! If we must diversify, fashion MUST be placed side by side agriculture and solid minerals.

Our cover features three young entrepreneurs who are basking in the euphoria of discovering ‘looking good’ as a bankable business. Aisha Igbinovia, Leslie Okoye and Toju Foyeh have done phenomenally well in their respective businesses. Read their interviews and let’s all learn.

It’s another fashion edition.

Enjoy!

CHIBOK GIRLS: 500 days and counting.

R.

Remmy Diagbare @ Vanguardallure1

Quotes...

“I’m not fashionable, and I know nothing about fashion, but I have my individual style, and style is eternal”.

- Vidya Balan

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success”.

- Henry Ford

“It pains me physically to see a woman victimized, rendered pathetic, by fashion”.

- Yves Saint Laurent

AISHA IGBINOVIA

TOJU FOYEH

LESLIE OKOYE

TEAM JEMI EKUNKUNBOR

lookposh@yahoo.co.uk

PAMELA ECHEMUNOR

pamela.echemunor @gmail.com

YEMISI SULEIMAN

suleimanyemisi@gmail.com

FATIMA GARBA

fatigarba36@yahoo.com

EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos.

For advertisement / enquiries, call DEBBIE: 08039675880, Office Auxiliary: EBERE OKOH

FAS H I O N

Dark Desire Russian red

Bertha’s bloom

Carpe Diem Presents

Unseasonal Love By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

Carpe Diem Designs, the label known for exotic fascinators and hats, recently presented its 2016 Spring collection. The new line was officially released on Valentine’s Day in Lagos, and modelled by the beautiful actress, Bhaira McWizu The collection comprises of hats, head pieces and accessories set on a palette of warm reds, champagne, ivory, elegant black and a splash of gold. These unique pieces according to the creative head of Carpe Diem Designs, Oluwagbon Oshinowo, “epitomize and exude sophistication, class and style”.

Unseasonal love determines to encourage fashionable individuals not only to remember their loved ones during the Valentine’s Day celebrations, but also to remember them on all other days as well.

Qwashire

Tips

• Start by choosing a headpiece that you are comfortable wearing. Remember you are attending an event and you may be wearing it all day.

• If you have long hair, pull it up into a chignon and fasten the fascinator with an elastic behind the hair.

• Never wear the elastic or allow it go under your chin.

• If your headpiece comes with a comb, slide the comb in from back forward not the other way round as most people mistakenly do.

• Always wear a fascinator on the front side of your head.

For a chic effect, tilt to an angle.

• If you wear glasses, ensure the piece you choose does not have much details to avoid your face looking too busy.

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Alithea

GeoGina

L I F E S TY L E

GOOD

Exercising regularly Typically for those who work, this can be a bit of a challenge, but exercising does the body a world of good. As one ages, the joints tend to stiffen and exercise helps lubricate those joints and avoid things like arthritis, back ache and muscular pain.

Try doing a bit of yoga in the morning if other exercises are too daunting.

for

YOU By - Pamela Echemunor

Lifestyle Choices Certain lifestyle choices are hazardous to health, the fact that it has no impact in the present, doesn’t mean that it won’t do anything later. People who are in the habit of smoking, alcohol abuse, drug abuse etc are at high risk of developing serious health issues later.

People who consume a lot of sugar, salt etc are also at risk, so live well.

The human body is genetically made to depreciate over the course of time, meaning as we age, our bodily functions gradually reduce in activity. That’s why health experts’ advice that one leads a healthy lifestyle when you are youthful.

For people over the age of 30, research has shown that age related illnesses tend to start arising, and this is the time to take evasive action to ensure a longer and healthier life. Here are a few useful tips that are and will be good for you.

Stay Hydrated Water is the food of life, water has numerous healing tendencies and it is one of the biggest gifts from nature. The body requires a substantial amount of water daily. Water not only has healing tendencies, it also detoxifies and is good for the skin and other bodily functions, without it, the body will shutdown, so stay hydrated.

Take a break Once in a while take yourself out, shopping, movies, the beach or swimming, the bottomline is to live because you only live once so have fun with it!

Good Diet They say you are what you eat; this is a fact believe it or not. For those in the habit of doing junk or fast food, you best beware. As delicious at they taste now, the latter results won’t be so. Certain ingredients put in these tasty meals/snacks to make them appetizing are highly dangerous, and the producers aim to make profit, and aren’t exactly out to help you stay healthy.

Home cooked food is best, plus try and stick to a more low fat, vegetarian related diet, do more salads, white meat/lean meat as well as eat well portioned meals.

Sleep well Sleep is a paramount part of living, it is a requirement that shouldn’t be tampered with. Various sicknesses have been linked to sleep deprivation like hypertension and self induced insomnia. The body requires at least 8 hours of sleep to enable to refresh and restart, if you cant do that, try 6 hours. But remember, you are not a robot.

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REPORTAGE

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REPORTAGE

The Business of Looking Good By - Yemisi Suleiman

F

ashion, they say, is serious business. Giving credence to this belief are three young women, taking care of the totality of the woman - from skin to clothes and to the bags.

Leslie Okoye, Chief Executive of CookieSkin, fashion designer Toluwaloju Olowofoyeku, a.k.a. Toju Foyeh, and Aisha Igbinovia of Nichole by Haguanna bag label, have a few things in common. They are passionate, determined and committed to turning their ideas into reality, building successful businesses in the process and living a life they dream of and love. In this interview, each shares her success story, challenges and future plans...

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REPORTAGE Why skin care products and how did CookieSkin come to be?

For me - because my fondest memory in my teen years was when I got back from school with serious sun burns which prompted my mother to make me wash my face immediately. I remember it vividly because she looked horrified and decided to teach me how to wash my face properly, using a white face towel in circular motion.

I never forgot her teaching, probably, because she also kept showing me the dirt that was coming off my face on the white towel; the contrast was impressive.

So, the desire to create my own skin care brand was borne out of my aim to redefine the meaning of beautiful skin amongst most African women. My inspiration came from all the beautiful women I would notice on a daily basis.

Living in Washington DC for a while, there were too many beautiful Black women of all shades. The reason I would notice them was mainly their skin.

I would pick out women with healthy, flawless, fresh skin that I would say “her skin is like milk” or “like fresh bread”.

When I, eventually, decided to start a skin care line, I wanted to embody fresh, healthy smooth skin; like a baby’s skin.

What were the challenges you faced in the process of setting up?

The main challenges were to do with product quality, logistics and managing consumer expectations. Keeping a close eye on everything and listening to customers will guide you in the beginning as you will make mistakes that you learn from.

I had to make changes to the entire packaging, product formula, manufacturers, price and logo. By the second year, everything changed; only the name and the legal papers stayed the same.

There’s Really No Magic Pill To Looking Fresh -Leslie Okoye

eslie Okoye is Chief Executive Officer of CookieSkin, a skin care products line borne out of the desire to redefine the meaning of beautiful skin amongst most African women. Born in the USA, Leslie, spent her teenage years in Nigeria before moving back to the US where she studied Broadcast Journalism at the Howard University, Washington DC. She also obtained a Masters in Marketing and Management from Bradford University in the UK. Her passion for food, health and wellness led her to become a Certified Health Coach in New York, where she lived for years before finally returning to Nigeria to set up CookieSkin.

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Why did you choose the name CookieSkin I can’t take credit for the name CookieSkin which means ‘skin so fresh, it’s edible.’ My husband instantly came up with the name; not in a brain storming session. No! It was one hot afternoon. I was wearing shorts and he couldn’t keep his hands or lips to himself. Hot and frustrated as I couldn’t concentrate plus he wasn’t helping me decide on a name, I yelled that he should stop distracting me and leave me alone if he wasn’t going to help come up with a name for my skin care line.

In that moment, he stopped nibbling on my legs, looked up and said: “How can I think when your skin is distracting me? In fact, you should call it CookieSkin because all women should want to have skin this fresh; that is good enough to eat.’ We both laughed but I knew he was serious and it wasn’t the first time he would not let me be because of my skin.

Would you say that the aim for which CookieSkin was set up is being achieved?

CookieSkin aims to redefine the meaning of beauty amongst women of colour, especially African women. To do that is to change the mindset of a continent which takes time, awareness and consistency. Each time a woman, lady or girl who believes in the CookieSkin brand buys it, it is a victory.

Therefore, each day I expand my reach is me achieving my goal.

What is the difference between a fresh skin and a problem skin?

The difference between a fresh and a problem skin is in the ingredients you use. Made with superior active ingredients, my formulas are proven to improve skin texture, tone and regeneration to reveal irresistible flawless skin; always fresh, radiant and youthful.

What is the worst skin sin anyone can commit?

The sun is supposed to be the main cause of skin damage but for women in Africa, the biggest harm comes from using harsh chemicals or skin-bleaching creams daily while under the sun or in the heat.

What is fashion like for you?

My style is classic casual. I like to keep it simple and tend to buy functional but timeless pieces with classic cuts, fabrics and colours that never go out of style. So, it could cost 50 dollars or 500 dollars; so far as it flatters my body shape and can last 10 washes, it’s worth trying on. Conversely, I do love pretty elegance even in simplicity.

I love wearing dresses or leggings and a tank top; black because it’s easy with no thought to it. I’m not big on jewellery but you will find me wearing dark sunglasses almost every day except it is raining.

What is your best beauty regimen?

I don’t really have one but I believe it is rubbing lotion all over because, it literally takes about 5-10 minutes of my beauty regimen each morning and I can’t rush it even if I tried.

How do you keep fit?

When I think about my family, my legacy and who I am, I know I can’t afford to be unhealthy; because for me, health is wealth. That said, I eat clean and train daily. Eating healthy, at least, seventy percent of the time and exercising, at least, three days a week. There’s really no magic pill to looking fresh and fit except discipline and commitment.

What drives you as a person?

I am driven by love and life! My love for my God who is in me and with me; love for my family, friends, and everyone on earth and also my love for life. I’m passionate about this one life we’ve all been given. For me, everyday is a new opportunity to do or create something that could positively affect the lives of others which is reason enough for me to get up every day.

If you were not into skin care, what would you have been doing and why?

I’m a bit shy to say this but I would have been an actress. From as young as I can remember, maybe 3 years old, I was always putting on a show for the family during every birthday party, Christmas party, dinner party or re-union.

I would gather all my sisters and cousins, create a play and act it out.

Even just for fun, I would always say to my sisters, ‘let’s act.’ I love the arts music, plays, movies, dance, painting etc. and participated in school but had to leave it because it was frowned upon back then.

What do you love about your job?

REPORTAGE I love that I’m helping people and making them happy. When the ‘thank-you’ emails started pouring it, I was a bit surprised how appreciative some women were about CookieSkin. Till today, I still am very touched when I get emails or texts from people saying ‘thank-you for

creating CookieSkin, it’s been a life saver,’ or ‘it’s healed my skin,’ or ‘it’s just what I’ve been looking for.’

How do you take time off work to relax?

I’m a bit of a workaholic so I’m always ready for a vacation. I travel to get away and when I do travel, it is

mostly for relaxation; no stress around me. I eat, sleep, pamper and spend time with loved ones. If I can’t travel, I stay in-doors for two days watching series and eating; only going out for my evening run or to get a massage.

The Experience Of Different Cultures Influences My Designs -Toju Foyeh oluwaloju Olowofoyeku, a.k.a. Toju Foyeh, developed a passion for fashion at a young age. Growing up and surrounded by her mother who sold unique fabric pieces in the early ‘90s and grandmother who was a designer and a graduate of the London College of Fashion, she was determined to make a mark in the fashion industry as well.

Toju embarked on a degree programme in Fashion at Instituto Marangoni in Milan, Italy, to up her skills. The designer, who enjoys turning her ideas and sketches into distinct high fashion pieces, also has an LLB in Law from the University of Reading, UK and an LLM from the University of Manchester also in the UK. Her brand has grown steadily since she officially first launched it few years ago, becoming one of the most sought after by high profile personalities.

T

How did you eventually start your own line?

I moved back to Nigeria in 2010 and officially launched the Toju Foyeh brand.

Would you say emerging as the Future Awards Best Designer in 2012, gave you the needed boost?

Yes, because it is a prestigious award and it has helped in the growth of the brand by providing a platform of recognition and exposure.

Tell us about your recent collections.

My most recent collections are the “Rose Garden” and “Beguile” collections. The “Rose Garden” collection is a ready-to-wear collection consisting of classy, cocktail, fun and wearable pieces. It was launched in December 2014.

The “Beguile” collection is my most recent collection. It is a bridal collection that featured avant-garde wedding dresses, jump suits, bridal reception dresses, evening dresses and statement head pieces. It was launched during the 2015 Lagos Fashion and Design Week.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

Very feminine, elegant, classy and versatile.

Where do you go for inspiration?

Magazines and seasonal mood boards. I also get inspiration from arts, music and other designers.

Who do you think is the ideal Toju woman?

The ideal Toju Foyeh woman is confident, classy, elegant, chic, sexy and bold.

and fashion.

How would you describe your personal fashion style?

Bold, elegant, classy and simple.

How much does travel influence your designs?

A lot. The experience of different cultures i.e. lifestyle, arts, music, fashion and food influences my design.

How do you accommodate the needs of women from different backgrounds who might have different fashion sensibilities?

In the process of my consultations, I always put into consideration the uniqueness of every woman.

Understanding that every woman is unique and this can influence their individual choices when it comes to style

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

Bora Bora, Jamaica and Singapore.

How does that inspiration turn into reality?

I interpret my inspiration in various ways. It can be seen through my fabric choices or design.

What’s next for you professionally?

Hmmmmm... I would rather keep everyone in suspense.

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REPORTAGE

I Want My Bags To Stand The Test Of Time

At what age did you discover your creative flair?

I don’t think creativity is something you discover. It is inborn. It just sort of blossoms as you grow up. The area of you decided to express your creativity in, that probably comes with age. For me, I would say my area of creative expertise was not discovered until I was well above my teens.

isha Igbinovia is the brain behind Nichole by Haguanna, her eponymous bag label which was launched few years ago. Her designs possess a tender femininity and exuberant confidence that appeals to the modern woman. More interestingly however, her focus is not limited to the raw aesthetics of the bags, she also takes into consideration the way in which her designs compliment an outfit when carried. Aisha who holds a degree in Law and International Relations from The London Guildhall University tells us how it all started and the journey so far..

How did you eventually set up your business?

I set up my business five years ago. First, by outsourcing almost all my designs and, eventually, being completely involved in the process.

-Aisha Igbinovia

A

At what point did you craft your first bag? Did you know then that this was something you wanted to do?

I crafted my first bag only a few years ago but I knew that was what I wanted to do a year before that. Before that, I was into making jewelleries and clothes.

Where did you get the name Nichole by Haguanna?

The name Nichole by Haguanna was born by my daughter and I. My daughter’s name is Nichole and Haguanna is just one of my names; my maiden name spelt backwards. So it just simply means I brought my daughter fort.

What is it about a bag that excites you?

Everything about a bag excites me; from inception, the thought, the design, to the leather, the skin, the colour and the shape. Is it structured or soft; the size, the finished products and when your clients simply love your work. I totally relish what I do.

So everything fascinates me in a bag.

Describe the Nicole by Harguana woman. Is there a specific type of woman you have in mind when designing?

The Nichole by Haguanna woman is different, strong. She breathes luxury. More importantly, loves to stand out; bold and always loves to make a statement in the most elegant kind of way.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from everywhere - my environment, imaginations, patterns, magazines, friends and family. Even my dreams... Pretty much everything!

The designs of your bags indicate that you don’t pay much attention to trends. That’s a very refreshing change. How do you achieve that?

I am an all-time kind of female. I want what I create to stand the test of time. I want today’s kids to grow up and still be able to wear my jewellery and carry my bags. I want to be able to pick a Nichole by Haguanna woman out of the crowd. That’s what inspires me to and sort of ditch trends.

Which important personality would you want to see with your bag?

In Nigeria, I think I have a host of the beautiful clients already.

Absolutely amazing women and some men. It wouldn’t hurt to get more though. Internationally, Sarah Jessica Parker, Lauren Santo Domingo and probably a few others.

What is in the near future for you... Do you intend to go beyond bags and branch out into other accessories, perhaps?

I do make other accessories now. I make absolutely stunning neck pieces. I intend to also branch out to other apparels, God willing, in the nearest future. Meanwhile, I am working on something I would like to keep under wraps for now.

How do you take time off to relax when you are not working?

Million dollar question! I hardly relax. But when I get a chance to, I bask in series. Lord help me! I have watched almost every series you can think of.

I also relax, when I can, with my family; sometimes, friends but I get the best time in the space of that hour I’m by myself. I’m sure a lot of us can relate with that.

If you were not designing bags, what would you have been doing?

Being a great solicitor.

Can you relive some of your childhood memories?

I had a lovely childhood. I can’t say enough of that. I have a wonderful family. Thank God for His extreme mercies and grace.

So, growing up, for me, was the peak of ‘beautiful’. We moved and travelled a lot, being from a military background.

I attended Happy Home Nursery and Primary School in Benue State. I went to a military school, Command Secondary School, Jos (Plateau State) and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria for a bit before moving to London.

In all, what is the most rewarding experience that comes with what you do?

I love the fact that my clients call me to tell me how much attention their Nichole by Haguanna bag brings and how special they feel whenever they carry my bags or even wear my jewelleries. It makes the sleepless nights, stress, staff issues - all worth it.

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HEALTHY LIVING101

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HEA L T H

by - Teri Mendes

Ways to Balance Hormones Naturally - part 2 If you don’t want these negative side effects but want to naturally balance your hormones, here are the top 10 ways to heal your hormones.

…CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK

10 WAYS TO BALANCE HORMONES NATURALLY 7. Eat Coconut Oil and Avocados:

Hormones, such as estrogen and insulin, are chemical messengers that affect many aspects of your health as they travel in your bloodstream throughout your entire body.

Some of the most common side effects of hormone imbalance include: • Infertility • Weight gain • Depression

Eating a variety of foods high in short-, mediumand long-chain fatty acids is key to keeping your hormones in check.

Not only are these essential fats fundamental building blocks for hormone production, but they boost your metabolism and promote weight loss.

My four favorite foods packed with healthy fats include: coconut oil, avocados, grass-fed butter and wild-caught salmon.

• Low libido

Coconut oil uses are plentiful- a natural antifungal, improves blood quality and reduces risk of heart disease, avocado benefits hormonal balance and salmon nutrition holds many more health benefits.

• Hair loss and hair thinning

8. Supplement with Adaptogen Herbs

• Fatigue • Insomnia

Organs and glands like your thyroid, adrenals, pituitary, ovaries, testicles and pancreas regulate most of your hormone production, and if your hormones become even slightly imbalanced it can cause major health issues.

Also, new research shows that your gut health plays a significant role in hormone regulation so if you have leaky gut syndrome or a lack of probiotic foods lining your intestinal wall, it can also cause hormone imbalance.

The good news is there are ways to balance your hormones naturally.

Adaptogen herbs are a unique class of healing plants that promote hormone balance and protect the body from a wide variety of diseases. In addition to boosting immune function and combating stress, research shows that ashwagandha and holy basil benefit hormone balance by: • Improving thyroid function

The bad news is the majority of people across the world today turn to synthetic treatments such as hormone replacement therapy, which can do three things:

• Lowering cholesterol naturally

1. It makes people dependent on prescription drugs for the rest of their lives.

• Stabilizing blood sugar

2. Simply masks the symptoms while you develop disease in other areas of the body.

3. Causes serious side effects by increasing your risk of stroke, osteoporosis and cancer.

• Reducing anxiety and depression • Reducing brain cell degeneration • Supporting adrenal glands 9. Balance Omega-3/6 Ratio Since the early 20th century, the use of vegetable oil in our diets has skyrocketed.

TERI Speaks Dear Teri, Please, how many cups or litres of water should someone consume in a day? Thanks.

Simeon.

Coincidently, because people didn’t boost their omega-3 foods intake to balance out the elevated omega-6s they consumed, I’ve seen an onslaught of chronic diseases and inflammatory processes literally take over our society.

Rule of thumb: Be sure to steer clear from oils high in omega-6s (safflower, sunflower, corn, cottonseed, canola, soybean and peanut), and load up on rich sources of natural omega-3s (wild fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and grass-fed animal products).

I want to also mention, there is a type of omega-6 fat you want to try and get in your diet called GLA. GLA (gammalinoleic acid) can be taken in supplement form by using evening primrose oil or borage oil, and it’s also found in hemp seeds. Studies show supplementing with GLA can support healthy progesterone levels.

10. Heal Leaky Gut Leaky gut is a condition that not only affects your digestive tract, but also causes hormone issues and can more specifically target your thyroid.

When undigested food particles like gluten leak through your gut into your bloodstream, it causes diseasecausing inflammation of the entire body and more specific organs like the thyroid.

Also, most people with leaky gut have a deficiency of probiotics in their guts. Probiotics actually help your body produce certain vitamins that affect hormone levels like insulin.

The top foods and supplements that support healing leaky gut include: bone broth, kefir, fermented vegetables, and high-fiber foods like vegetables and sprouted seeds.

In addition, supplements like digestive enzymes and probiotics can aid in repairing your gut lining, which in turn can balance your hormones. Some of the main things that damage your digestive health include processed foods, gluten, hydrogenated oils and emotional stress.

I will be delving more into related topics like these, but also based on popular demand, so message me if you would like to know more.

Don’t shoot the messenger just reporting.

That is it for today my readers!

For comments and questions please email terimendes@gmail. com, @terimendes. I would love to hear from you, till next week. - it’s ta ta for now! XOXO

Dear Simeon, Thanks for writing in. Daily required amount of water intake is 8 Tall glasses equating within the range of 2.5 - 4litres every day.

Hope this helps! Happy drinking!

Best wishes, Teri

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F EATU R E

POCKET FINA by - Omilola Oshikoya

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Practical Tips To Creating Wealth In 2016 …CONTINUED

3. Gain Knowledge/Develop your potential: Benjamin Franklin said “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” A quote from the Money book says “Knowledge and more wisdom is more valuable than a bag of gold to a rich man”. I read this amazing story from a Joyce Meyer book. A young man found a vein of gold in the mine. He was approached by mining companies to buy it for a few thousand dollars. He refused the money and took a year out to learn everything he could about mining. He attended courses, seminars, read books etc & when he had learnt all he could, he returned to mine the gold.

With a lot of hard work and effort, he mined the gold and made millions of dollars from it.

4. Purpose: Follow your purpose.

Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin group said “I wanted to be an editor or a journalist, I wasn’t really interested in being an entrepreneur but I soon found I had to become an entrepreneur in order to keep my magazine going”. I remember listening to Christopher Kolade at a business seminar hosted by Guiding Light Assembly. He said his dream was to be an education officer and God granted him his wish for 5 years. Later, he decided to follow Gods will for His life, instead of his own will. As a result, he has been appointed CEO & Chairman of blue chip companies including Cadbury Plc etc. He was appointed Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK from 2002 to 2007. He said he has never had to apply for

KATHY EMIKO

NCE

any job or position.

5. Look around you and solve a problem.

My friend Dr. Ola Orekunrin is a perfect example of someone who solved a problem.

Her younger sister fell ill in Nigeria and they tried to get an air ambulance to do an evacuation. Unfortunately her sister died because the closest air ambulance service was in South Africa & couldn’t get to them on time. She decided to leave her job as a doctor in the UK, to set-up the first air ambulance company in West Africa. Today she has won so many awards from people like Cherie Blair, Serena Williams etc. She has also been invited to speak at different places such as Ted talks, Harvard etc 6. Network: Your network is your net worth.

I recently was privileged to listen to a media mogul speak about how he started his business. One thing he emphasized was “Your contact leads to your contract.” He said it is important to network and keep our contacts. He also mentioned that when he was still an up and coming journalist, he met a very prominent figure. Later the prominent person lost his job and most journalists abandoned him. He made sure he called this person from time to time to find out how he was doing. He didn’t abandon the person. A few months later, the person was reappointed. When he wanted to set-up his media enterprise and needed a license, he called his contact and spoke to him. His contact made one phone call to the person in charge and that’s how he got the license. …TO BE CONTINUED

Omilola Oshikoya is Africa’s premier Wealth Coach and the founder of Omilola Oshikoya International. After over 10 years in finance /investment banking, Omilola resigned from a successful career in pursuit of fulfilment. Please send an email to Omilola on pocketfinance@omilola.com.

Twitter: @omilola, Instagram: @omilolaoshikoya, Facebook: @omilolaoshikoya, Website: www.omilola.com

BodyPerfect not just slimming but fitness

WHAT IS YOUR PERFECT WEIGHT A real insurance plan is one in which you take responsibility for own health by educating yourself and taking action on a daily basis.

Of all the numbers swimming in our heads, “ATM cards pin, husbands, shoe size, precise number of calories in a scoop of ice cream”, the digits that probably gives the most grief is our weight; and whatever the weight is now, there is a special number that plagues us nearly as much: WHAT YOU WANT TO WEIGH, i.e. your mythical perfect body weight.

Our ideal body might be inspired by a picture we saw on a magazine cover or by your own too skinny friend who eats a bowl of rice and fried plantain daily and never gain weight, but here is what we need to remember: your body

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is unique and you need to find a realistic number that is acceptable for you. Your perfect body weight will take into accounts your height, bone structure, muscle mass, age, and breast size, as well as your fathers/mother’s weight.

THREE STEEPS TO CALCULATING YOUR PERFECT WEIGHT To determine the bodyweight that is right for you, we are going to look at three different measures: baseline

weight goal (or roughly what you should weight, based on your height), bone structure and overall body fat percentage.

Here is how to figure each one: 1. What is the right weight for your height? a) Measure your height. b) If you are over 5 feet, take the number of inches over and multiply that by 5. Add 100 to this number, and that will give you an idea of how much you should weight. c) If you are 5 feet tall or shorter, use 100 pounds as your baseline.

NOTE: To convert pounds into kilograms (kg), divide by 2.2 e.g 100 pounds is 100 ÷ 2.2 = 45.5kg.

Remember, this baseline is a rough estimate. But it does serve as a critical number for the other equations that come next.

2. What is your frame size?

The idea of being “big boned” is not just something concocted to make you feel good. Your inner structure can run large or small no matter how tall you are.

Being big boned can add as much as 10 pounds to baseline weight goal, and those are pounds that you will never be able to lose.

Figure out your frame size by measuring the circumference of your wrist with a flexible measuring tape, and then compare that number with the following chart. ...TO BE CONTINUED Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant.

Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko.

BEA U T Y

HIGH SIX

Facial Care By - Pamela Echemunor The face is the first point of contact which says a lot about a person. Considering our climate, one must take special care of this very vital part of the body. Here are the high six products for facial care, that is a must on every dressing table.

FacialS Going for regular facial does a world of good; it not only improves the complexion, but helps reduce signs of aging. Facials can also be done at home using organic or non -organic products. For organic facial, use carrots / tomatoes for scrubbing, then lemon solution for cleansing; eggs for masking and honey to give the final glow and reduce excess oil. For non -organic facial invest in a good scrub like apricot scrub to remove dead skin cells, non -alcoholic cleanser for sensitive skin, mint jelp mask for masking and then a good moisturiser and facial cream for best results.

Drink lots of water Cleansing

The body requires water to flush out toxins through the skin and other organs, the more you sweat the more toxins you let out. So stay hydrated and see the power of water.

Cleansing keeps facial skin germ free and removes excess oil if any, especially for those who suffer from acne, blemishes and blackheads. Various skin types require different treatment; some people prefer organic products like honey and lemon, but if you prefer skin care agents, opt for Clearasil or proactive cleansers.

Sun block The harsh UV Rays of the sun are incredibly harmful to the skin as a whole, it is advisable to avoid the sun as much as possible, otherwise invest in a good Sun Protection Formula (SPF) to avoid sun burns.

Take care of facial hair Moisturize This applies to those with dry skin, moisturising regularly keeps the face soft and glowing; invest in a gentle moisturiser.

Facial hair often leaves room for germs. Some experts advice you remove facial hair with treatments such as laser, hair removal creams etc, but this may not be good for sensitive skin.

Instead try bleaching hairs with face cream and doing regular facial.

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FEATU RES

luxury

wines spirits

FOOD E

By Pamela Echemunor

With Pamela Echemunor

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Be Healthy With Beans TOP WHITE WINES FOR COOKING

The most versatile type of wine to cook with is a dry, crisp white wine. Most rich and oaky whites tend to become bitter during the cooking process, while sweeter whites may caramelize during deglazing or add unwanted sweetness to certain dishes. When choosing wine to cook with, opt for a moderately-priced, white wine and spend your extra money on quality ingredients instead.

Here are some of our top picks.

1 2

Sparkling Wine Sparkling wine is perfect for cooking because the bubbles dissipate when cooked, so this is a great opportunity to use up any leftover flat bubbly after a party.

Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio is a very neutral wine; it adds flavour to food without stripping it of its body.

It is also known for its versatility.

3 Unoaked Chardonnay Chardonnay contributes richness to meals and allows the flavours flow through easily into the ducts.

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Beans are high in protein and fiber and are an excellent for weight loss. They can be eaten with almost anything and are highly delicious. There are so many ways to prepare beans from steaming to frying etc. No matter how you choose to make your beans, they are always an excellent choice.

BEANS WITH CABBAGE AND FISH

4

Sherry Wine

One delicious meal to cook with sherry is chicken and cauliflower soup. It brightens the soup and adds another layer of depth and dimension to the meal. Sherry is versatile, it is great for deglazing, brings depth to a cream sauce, and is brilliant alongside appetizers like oysters.

5 Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc provides racy acidity, which is particularly delicious in seafood dishes or with sauces utilizing heavy cream.

Ingredients • Small knob of butter • 5 rashers smoked streaky bacon, chopped • 2 Finely chopped onions • 2 Celery sticks • 2 Diced Carrot • Small bunch thyme • 1 Savoy cabbage, shredded • 4 tbsp white wine • 300ml chicken stock • White Beans cleaned • Food seasoning For the Fish • 4 fillets sustainable white fish, such as hake, about • 140g/5oz each, skin on • 2 tbsp plain flour • 2 tbsp olive oil Method: Boil white beans in another pot with onions until soft and set aside. Heat the butter in a large stir fry pan until it sizzles, fry bacon in it for a few minutes then add onion, celery and carrots and gently cook for 8-10 minutes until softened but not brown. Stir in the thyme and cabbage, then cook for a few minutes until the cabbage starts to wane, then add wine and simmer until evaporated. Add the stock and beans and seasoning and simmer for 10 minutes.

Season each fish fillet, then dust the skin with flour. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan. Fry the fish, skin-side down, for about 4 minutes until crisp, then flip over and finish on the flesh side until cooked through. Serve each fish fillet on top of a pile of cabbage with a few small potatoes, if you like or with beans pottage.

Email: pamela.echemunor@gmail.com, Instagram: @nanya2207, Twitter @nanya2207.

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PEO PL E

“ONE PARTY AT A TIME!”

:08039675880

Mrs Bukunola Gadzama (center) unveiling the brands new logo

Abiola Kola-Daisi

Tola Adegbite & Adesua Dozie

Derin Odugbesan

SHOLA COKER

VICTOR BANJO

BUILDCON holds Appreciation Dinner By - Yemisi Suleiman

Buildcon Global Investments, a Building, Maintenance and Investments Company Limited held its annual customer appreciation dinner , at the Bay Lounge, Lekki Lagos. The dinner was a time to take a look back and reflect on the its successes over the years, whiles celebrating its clients. The event was also used to unveil the Company’s new Brand Identity. Speaking at the event, Mrs Bukunola Gadzama, Managing Director of Buildcon Global Services Ltd, said this year’s annual event is different because, “we are showing our clients our new products. We will try as much as possible to continue to give them what they want and involving them in the building of their homes from inception to the finishing.”

The night was also one of fun and entertainment, with a dance performance by a Nigerian troupe, while the live band dished out evergreen tunes , to the delight of guests.

Bisola Folawiyo & Keke Adebayo

Tabia Prince Will & Helen Ibru

Kemi Osoba

ADENIYI OYEKUNLE

Samantha Dimka

Tiwa Savage

THE VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY

BY ALARA BUNMI GANI-MUSTAPHA

By Oscar Ochiogu

Last Saturday , design and luxury enthusiasts enjoyed a Valentineinspired event tagged ,#AlaraLovesYou- an open house day-party held at ALARA, the eclectic luxury store in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The concept store hosted a select few to an afternoon of Valentine installation, high fashion, and complimentary treats. For many guests, this was their last opportunity to browse from a carefully crafted display of objects of African and international origin.

The guest was typically Lagos -- a mix of artists and celebs, who came to savour the stunning collection of the David Adjaye-designed retail boutique. Special guest, DJ Obi, played on the ‘in-store’ deck, while guests explored the multi-level design gallery, and socialised.

SEYI ADEWUNMI AND WIFE Alaba Oniru

MR AND MRS YINKA ALESE

MR AND MRS TONY IDOWU

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