Allure 29 May 2016

May 29, 2016

Special Edition

5 Powerful

Fashion Hazards Children Face

Nutrients Every Child Needs

AITUAJE (a.k.a Waje) & DAUGHTER - Us Against the World

29/05 Contents

7

15

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

6

Hand-made Nigerian Designer Bags Every girl should have Kids Go Hot on Trend

8

COVER STORY

Waje & Daughter

PEOPLE 15

• Otumemine Opens flagship store • Nkechi Ali-Balogun @ 60

Quotes...

“Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring, and integrity, they think of you”.

Editor’s Note Children can be very lovable just as well as they could be truant.

The way they turn out depends on which side of these two divides their parents’ experience with them falls into, particularly mothers.

Society places the burden of guilt for a child gone-wrong on the mother. This is why mothers have to make sure that they use the carrot and stick approach on their wards; it works all the time.

Some parents (mothers), unfortunately, allow their children to wring them round their little fingers. That’s when you see a mother running around the house just to feed her child or the child cries non-stop, even when he is not hungry or sick. My advice, let the child be. When he is hungry, he will ask for food; crying won’t kill him. When he is tired, he will stop. (As you can see, I used the male gender because boys are usually spoilt silly by doting moms.)

May 27 was Children’s Day, a day set aside to celebrate children and to reflect on the way society trains and treats them. We have packaged this edition specially for them; starting with the fashion trends for children (p.6) to discipline and health issues (p. 7) and the appropriate food for them (p.12).

Star singer, Aituaje Iruobe popularly known as Waje, is our cover guest. She is a single mother; she became one at 18 years, a time when she had no business being one and at a period when society was more stand-offish about teenage pregnancy. But she pulled through the shame and the blame. Today, she is the proud mother of Emerald who is now a teenager herself. Pamela Echemunor spoke with the duo who looks more like sisters than mother and child. See pp.8-10.

- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

“It is easier for a father to have children than for children to have a real father”.

- Pope John XXIII

“Watching your daughter being collected by her date feels like handing over a million dollar Stradivarius to a gorilla”.

- Jim Bishop

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)

I love happy endings.

Do have a happy one this week!

R.

#CHIBOKGIRLS: 500+days

Remmy Diagbare @ Vanguardallure1

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

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ALLURE’S

FA S H I ON

WEEKLY FAB LIST!!! by - Fatima Garba

Looking for the latest trends to transition into? Hopefully, our weekly fab list will help you decide the major trends to keep you looking fab all day and all week.

MAXI SKIRTS This season, designers are paying homage to the maxi with a new crop of statement skirts that give the 90s a run for its money.

Chloe turned out 70s patchwork, Marc by Marc Jacobs offered up cargos.So much to choose from!

Marchesa ruffle dress

Yaele ruffled dress Anna Sui maxi skirt

Alice Olivia maxi skirt

RUFFLES

CHOKER TOP Sorry lace up tops,there is a new shirt on the scene ready to steal your shine. Meet the choker top: Part-turtleneck, part-halter, the shirt is everything you never knew you wanted. Spotted on so many celebrities,it would seem that much of them has already taken the plunge with this trend.

Topshop choker crop top

Girlie but grown up was everywhere on the runways, as designers added a smattering of ruffles to give looks a flirtatious vibe. Other times, the effect was downright sculptural, giving dimension to tops and sheath dresses with a more contemporary appeal.

Stella McCartney oversized glasses

Jimmy Choo slip on sneakers

SLIP ON SNEAKERS Tom Ford oversized glasses

OVERSIZED GLASSES Nerds are finally in style in 2016. Oversized glasses are the new accessory to love.

Marc Jacobs slip on sneakers

Keri Hilson in Marchesa ruffled dress

Laces are so 2015.

Prepare to slip on your sneakers and go this year.This trend is so chic and comfortable,a must have in your closet.

May 29, 2016 /

3

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

Hand Made Nigerian Designer Bags

Every Girl Should Have

Zashadu Bags

by - Funke Ajomale model for Zashadu

very girl - fashionable, stylish or just a jeans and tee-shirt girl has one thing in common: bags. There are those of us who need to have one i.e., that’s all of us. There are those of us who love bags and want every good and timeless piece, be it premium brands or just quality (the collectors) and there are some of us who just go with whatever trend is out there.

I fall in the category of collectors; as long as it’s of good quality with a timeless design and I can afford it, I buy it. I might not have an outfit or occasion for it, it doesn’t matter. One day, I would have a use for it... Please don’t shake your head for me. Lol. Growing up, I only knew and had American and European brands, except the round leather bag and wallet my dad got me from Kano. I think I was in JSS1 at the time. I had always wondered why it was hard to find a made in Nigeria bag and when you finally find one, the quality is totally off.

My first contact with a Nigerian bag designer was in 2012. I was job hunting, at the time, and I wanted to channel my love for fashion and bags into profit but I had no idea or knowledge of the business side of fashion. I just had a few drawings here and there, nothing great. A friend (rest his soul), introduced me to Zainab Ashadu of Zashadu Bags. She was willing to mentor me but I got lazy and that was the end of the story.

My first contact with Zashadu was love at first sight. It was the making of the TKO (Total Knock Out) bag. She had posted a video of it on Instagram and from the way they filed and knitted the leather, you just want a piece. Shortly after, I saw one with a friend and I had to spend 5 minutes with the bag. There is something about its petit size with a unique design; the finishing on both the outside and inside is all shades of awesome.

E

model for Zashadu

4

/ May 29, 2016

Zashadu Bags are premium, luxury bags made from farmed exotic skins (leather) sourced locally with fine finishing and rough cut precious stones set in brass.

A British/Nigerian luxury brand, they also make sandals and belts; they have a kids’ collection too. Their bags range from N22,000 - N211,000 (I did at the current pound exchange rate). You can find a Zashadu Bag here: www.zashadu.com.

O’Eclat Designs

O’Eclat Designs - (pronounced O-eyklah) I met the CEO in 2012 while I was planning a cervical cancer shoot through the same friend. She was such a delight; same are her bags. I was there to pick only about 5 - 8 of them for the shoot. I ended up taking 15, if I remember correctly. All I needed was bags with green or teal in them but girl... I just kept picking!

Am I allowed to say you could turn the bags inside out and you would still be able to carry them and be fabulous; the clutches, totes, shoulder bags, all fabulous! Well, I got one as a gift and if I may emphasize, she makes timeless pieces.

The brand produces beautiful, hand-crafted pieces locally with special focus on but not limited to using leather only. They also use rich African prints and indigenous hand-woven fabrics with a contemporary twist.

The bags range from N10,000 – N38,500 (they could cost more, depending on your specification).

You can find an O’Eclat bag at: http://market. myasho.com/ http://oeclat.com/

Jakar Lagos Jakar Lagos - for the professional girl. If you love box bags and shoulder bags, Jakar is your go-to.

Recently, I held one of the Jakar pieces; words can’t express the feeling. The leather felt good and the interior was well done. I remember looking at the threading and no bends whatsoever; it was neatly sown. No rough edges, no glue sticking out and the leather was soft so you know that you would be having no cracks. All you need do is keep them away from dust and clean with a soft cloth.

The bags are simply unique and a must-have for every working lady.

For N15,000, you can have yourself a Jakar Lagos bag. Find them on Instagram @jakarlagos.

Lola Adeoti I found the brand while working on a project and the designer basically schooled me on leather and what goes with what.

Weekenders, Totes, travel bags… It’s all chic and trendy with the Lola Adeoti brand. Please note: they do not mean to be racist but it’s all leather and no ankara mixtures. Find them on Instagram @ lolaadeoti.

The bags range from N20,000 upwards.

Gidan Nodza They use locally sourced exotic leathers; they make their own fabrics to each client’s specification. You could also pick from what’s available. With Gidan Nodza, every product is crafted with emphasis on its uniqueness as an expression of individual style; no two creations are the same. I have not had one up close but while speaking to the designer, she explained that she dyes the fabric herself. That is the reason you can’t find any of their designs randomly. But you’ve got to love these bags.

There is a vast collection of products to choose from and a variety of online stockists from where you can purchase these works of fascinating beauty and style, including but not limited to: afrimod.com, afrobunch.co or myasho.com. They range from N22000 upwards.

All of these bags are affordable luxury as I like to call them. model for O’Eclat

Funke Ajomale is a financial analyst and fashion blogger. She writes for Glamsquad magazine.com May 29, 2016 /

5

FA S H I O N

FASH IO N

Hand Made Nigerian Designer Bags

Every Girl Should Have

Zashadu Bags

by - Funke Ajomale model for Zashadu

very girl - fashionable, stylish or just a jeans and tee-shirt girl has one thing in common: bags. There are those of us who need to have one i.e., that’s all of us. There are those of us who love bags and want every good and timeless piece, be it premium brands or just quality (the collectors) and there are some of us who just go with whatever trend is out there.

I fall in the category of collectors; as long as it’s of good quality with a timeless design and I can afford it, I buy it. I might not have an outfit or occasion for it, it doesn’t matter. One day, I would have a use for it... Please don’t shake your head for me. Lol. Growing up, I only knew and had American and European brands, except the round leather bag and wallet my dad got me from Kano. I think I was in JSS1 at the time. I had always wondered why it was hard to find a made in Nigeria bag and when you finally find one, the quality is totally off.

My first contact with a Nigerian bag designer was in 2012. I was job hunting, at the time, and I wanted to channel my love for fashion and bags into profit but I had no idea or knowledge of the business side of fashion. I just had a few drawings here and there, nothing great. A friend (rest his soul), introduced me to Zainab Ashadu of Zashadu Bags. She was willing to mentor me but I got lazy and that was the end of the story.

My first contact with Zashadu was love at first sight. It was the making of the TKO (Total Knock Out) bag. She had posted a video of it on Instagram and from the way they filed and knitted the leather, you just want a piece. Shortly after, I saw one with a friend and I had to spend 5 minutes with the bag. There is something about its petit size with a unique design; the finishing on both the outside and inside is all shades of awesome.

E

model for Zashadu

4

/ May 29, 2016

Zashadu Bags are premium, luxury bags made from farmed exotic skins (leather) sourced locally with fine finishing and rough cut precious stones set in brass.

A British/Nigerian luxury brand, they also make sandals and belts; they have a kids’ collection too. Their bags range from N22,000 - N211,000 (I did at the current pound exchange rate). You can find a Zashadu Bag here: www.zashadu.com.

O’Eclat Designs

O’Eclat Designs - (pronounced O-eyklah) I met the CEO in 2012 while I was planning a cervical cancer shoot through the same friend. She was such a delight; same are her bags. I was there to pick only about 5 - 8 of them for the shoot. I ended up taking 15, if I remember correctly. All I needed was bags with green or teal in them but girl... I just kept picking!

Am I allowed to say you could turn the bags inside out and you would still be able to carry them and be fabulous; the clutches, totes, shoulder bags, all fabulous! Well, I got one as a gift and if I may emphasize, she makes timeless pieces.

The brand produces beautiful, hand-crafted pieces locally with special focus on but not limited to using leather only. They also use rich African prints and indigenous hand-woven fabrics with a contemporary twist.

The bags range from N10,000 – N38,500 (they could cost more, depending on your specification).

You can find an O’Eclat bag at: http://market. myasho.com/ http://oeclat.com/

Jakar Lagos Jakar Lagos - for the professional girl. If you love box bags and shoulder bags, Jakar is your go-to.

Recently, I held one of the Jakar pieces; words can’t express the feeling. The leather felt good and the interior was well done. I remember looking at the threading and no bends whatsoever; it was neatly sown. No rough edges, no glue sticking out and the leather was soft so you know that you would be having no cracks. All you need do is keep them away from dust and clean with a soft cloth.

The bags are simply unique and a must-have for every working lady.

For N15,000, you can have yourself a Jakar Lagos bag. Find them on Instagram @jakarlagos.

Lola Adeoti I found the brand while working on a project and the designer basically schooled me on leather and what goes with what.

Weekenders, Totes, travel bags… It’s all chic and trendy with the Lola Adeoti brand. Please note: they do not mean to be racist but it’s all leather and no ankara mixtures. Find them on Instagram @ lolaadeoti.

The bags range from N20,000 upwards.

Gidan Nodza They use locally sourced exotic leathers; they make their own fabrics to each client’s specification. You could also pick from what’s available. With Gidan Nodza, every product is crafted with emphasis on its uniqueness as an expression of individual style; no two creations are the same. I have not had one up close but while speaking to the designer, she explained that she dyes the fabric herself. That is the reason you can’t find any of their designs randomly. But you’ve got to love these bags.

There is a vast collection of products to choose from and a variety of online stockists from where you can purchase these works of fascinating beauty and style, including but not limited to: afrimod.com, afrobunch.co or myasho.com. They range from N22000 upwards.

All of these bags are affordable luxury as I like to call them. model for O’Eclat

Funke Ajomale is a financial analyst and fashion blogger. She writes for Glamsquad magazine.com May 29, 2016 /

5

FA S H I O N

KIDS Go Hot On By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

TREND

The days were when mothers put their girls in ball gowns and made them feel like princesses. Today’s children want more than just a ball dress. They want what they see mothers wear. Children today are not isolated from trend. They simply have a mind of their own.

From stripe dresses to animal print dresses and even polka dots, children have their place taking on great fashion favourites.

Here are some pieces to make your little girl look great.

Princess summer dress

Animal print dress New Girl Party dress

Vestidos Navy Girl dress

timeyin

Red polka dot dresS

6

/ May 29, 2016

FA S H I ON

FASHION HAZARDS CHILDREN FACE By - Pamela Echemunor Fashion is a way of life. Nature gives us a plain palette and our parents help us to understand how to work with it so as to create our own ideas on how we want to be perceived.

crop top

Nowadays, parents go to the extreme when dressing their children without considering the health hazards that this can pose.

Below are some hazardous fashion trends that children are exposed to.

bum shorts

Seductive Outfits

There should be a limit to which parents dress their children, male or female. In the case of the young girl, mothers sometimes dress them so maturely, thereby exposing them to risk of sexual abuse etc.

Also, in recent times, homosexuality has become a norm and young boys who grow up dressed in a certain manner may become curious or confused at their sexuality. This should be a cause for concern. Please try to get proper orientation before dressing your offspring.

High Heeled Shoes High-heels are not only dangerous for grown folks but for children as well. There is no reason why a six-year old or even a ten year-old should be wearing high-heels under any circumstance. At this stage in their lives, their bodies are still growing and don’t need any sort of stress. So, try to stick to the basics and allow your child to grow healthy.

natural afro

braid

Weave-on and braids on children

When the holidays come, most parents tend to go to extremes by styling children’s hair with braids and weave-ons. Although they may look appealing, they cause bad circulation of blood in the scalp, which isn’t very good for young people because braids or weave-ons are too tight for their tender scalp.

Instead of giving them a headache, why not work towards enriching their natural hair while they are young and also encourage them to embrace their God-given beauty.

high heels

Hoop earings

Makeup Young girls grow up watching their mothers put on make-up and they eagerly anticipate the day they will be makeup allowed or required to wear make-up. The fact is everything has a limit. Unfortunately, the 21st century has a different perspective as to when young children can start wearing makeup. As mentioned earlier, teach your offspring to embrace their natural looks to avoid dependence on the artificial.

cutex collection

Painted Nails

Accessories Accessories work magic on an ensemble but heavy accessories could be damaging. Young children should be encouraged to stick to simple and light accessories; wearing heavy chandelier earrings and/or hoops could tear the ear lobe or weaken it before hand.

Nails tend to carry germs and children, most times, unconsciously put their hands in their mouths without remembering to wash them.

Nail polish and hardener are poisonous chemical-based compounds and could cause infections in young people. So beware.

Chandelier Earrings

May 29, 2016 /

7

REPORTAGE

REPORTAGE

Aituaje & Emerald Iruobe

- Us Against the World By - Pamela Echemunor

B

eing a parent is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. It’s one of the biggest accomplishments in a woman’s life. Every girl dreams of the day she will hold her child in her arms. Pop and R&B singer, Waje, became a mother at a tender age and although a single mother, she gives props to her family for standing by her through it all. She is not only a musical inspiration but also an inspiration to mothers everywhere. This interview is dedicated to mothers everywhere. In it, Waje talks about her relationship with her daughter and more.

8

/ May 29, 2016

Aituaje Iruobe (a.k.a Waje) Eighteen years ago, you were a single mum at a young age. Can you take us through the challenges you faced and how you pulled through?

I would say that that time was, perhaps, the most difficult time in my life. I was young, still in my teens, vulnerable, confused and scared. The most important thing and the luckiest thing I had was the support of my family; that made life a little easier.

How did you cope with parenting, seeing you were a young girl yourself?

The first time I carried her in my arms, I knew there was nothing that would be able to take me away from this innocent, beautiful soul that I had brought into the world. I embraced it and, naturally, the instinct of a mom came. But I was also learning from my mom’s sister, Mrs. Amaka Ikwueze, a.k.a. big Mommy, who was also a mom to both of us.

What lessons did you learn bringing up your daughter alone?

I would like to say clearly that I didn’t bring my daughter up alone; I was incredibly blessed to have my family. It’s not like I was an abandoned teenager with the burden of an offspring. What I learnt in those early days, as a mother-to-be, was that being a mother meant taking responsibility for your actions.

You look like sisters. How do people react when you tell them that she is your daughter and not your sister?

It’s such a sweet and funny blessing to be called your daughter’s sister. First, they say ‘Oh what! How old are you?’ In replying, I find that I smile sheepishly like I have just won a lottery. Maybe, now I should find an appropriate answer to the observation!

(Laughs) So, how do you relate with your daughter? Do you have the typical mother-daughter relationship or are you friends?

In many ways, I am a typical mom. I have my rules and I also try to bring her up in God’s way so no matter what happens, she will always find her way back.

May 29, 2016 /

9

REPORTAGE

REPORTAGE

Aituaje & Emerald Iruobe

- Us Against the World By - Pamela Echemunor

B

eing a parent is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer. It’s one of the biggest accomplishments in a woman’s life. Every girl dreams of the day she will hold her child in her arms. Pop and R&B singer, Waje, became a mother at a tender age and although a single mother, she gives props to her family for standing by her through it all. She is not only a musical inspiration but also an inspiration to mothers everywhere. This interview is dedicated to mothers everywhere. In it, Waje talks about her relationship with her daughter and more.

8

/ May 29, 2016

Aituaje Iruobe (a.k.a Waje) Eighteen years ago, you were a single mum at a young age. Can you take us through the challenges you faced and how you pulled through?

I would say that that time was, perhaps, the most difficult time in my life. I was young, still in my teens, vulnerable, confused and scared. The most important thing and the luckiest thing I had was the support of my family; that made life a little easier.

How did you cope with parenting, seeing you were a young girl yourself?

The first time I carried her in my arms, I knew there was nothing that would be able to take me away from this innocent, beautiful soul that I had brought into the world. I embraced it and, naturally, the instinct of a mom came. But I was also learning from my mom’s sister, Mrs. Amaka Ikwueze, a.k.a. big Mommy, who was also a mom to both of us.

What lessons did you learn bringing up your daughter alone?

I would like to say clearly that I didn’t bring my daughter up alone; I was incredibly blessed to have my family. It’s not like I was an abandoned teenager with the burden of an offspring. What I learnt in those early days, as a mother-to-be, was that being a mother meant taking responsibility for your actions.

You look like sisters. How do people react when you tell them that she is your daughter and not your sister?

It’s such a sweet and funny blessing to be called your daughter’s sister. First, they say ‘Oh what! How old are you?’ In replying, I find that I smile sheepishly like I have just won a lottery. Maybe, now I should find an appropriate answer to the observation!

(Laughs) So, how do you relate with your daughter? Do you have the typical mother-daughter relationship or are you friends?

In many ways, I am a typical mom. I have my rules and I also try to bring her up in God’s way so no matter what happens, she will always find her way back.

May 29, 2016 /

9

REPORTAGE

Emerald Iruobe How was it like growing up with just your mother?

Growing up with my mother is normal. She is my friend. She plays the roles of a mother and a father. She is always going out of her way to make me comfortable. Sometimes, I don’t get what I want but I just take it in like a ‘G’. She is such a strong woman; I have learnt a lot from her and I get her pain most of the time. She is always busy but even at that, she makes time for me.

We don’t often know how strong we are until we play the role of parents.

I try to strike a balance between being the giver of rules and an ear to turn to. It’s important to me to be both a mother and a friend. It’s important that she understands she’s under authority and, at the same time, it’s so important that when she needs an ear or a hug, she can find that in me and not somewhere else.

This edition is dedicated to Children’s Day. We chose to speak with you because, we wish to explore the mother-daughter relationship and bringing up the girl child. So, in terms of the issues of life, tell us how a parent should school her child about feminism.

First, I think feminism is usually misunderstood.

I am a Christian so I try to be careful when speaking of it. Every mom wants her children to be the best they can be; identify opportunities as they come, understand their strengths, be confident in themselves and learn to improve on their weaknesses.

I think this generation of parents should teach their children the value of the next human being other than themselves, regardless of gender. The Bible says ‘love your neighbor as thyself’. If we teach our kids about that, maybe some of the difficulties surrounding the girl child will be extinct.

So, the question is: what are we teaching our kids?

Are we teaching our boys to not clean themselves because they are men? Are we teaching our girls to think of themselves as objects rather than what God has already made them to be? Plus, every mom should go read “12 Extraordinary Women”.

Essentially, in my philanthropic work, one of the biggest discoveries we have made is in the area of the lack of opportunities. That’s what our focus is; that’s what the feminist conversation should centre around. Are girls getting the same opportunities as the boys? The same rights to an education? To a career? To equal pay? Are they allowed to aspire to whatever goals they have?

As a mother, do you think society has failed the child? Have we adequately catered for them?

Yes, we have failed and not catered for them.

Children are malnourished. For more than a decade, education has become luxury. Even in simple things like spending time with our children, we can’t afford that anymore.

The security of our children is no longer guaranteed; not many recreational centres for them. How many libraries do we have that the average parent can afford - that do not cost an arm and a leg? Our girls are sexually harassed; our boys are intimidated. Yes, we have failed but that’s something we can change.

You hear of abuse of children and the youth.

How do you think society can better protect children, particularly the girl-child?

I don’t know if there is a fool-proof way of protecting our children but there are steps we can take: let’s start by showing interest in our children’s lives and the people in them; choose care-givers carefully, ask questions, know the warning signs, teach children about boundaries and teach our children in schools and homes to speak up.

Explain what’s in the media and build a system where we can trust the people who have sworn to protect us.

You were named the brand ambassador for Bailey’s Mother’s Day Competition. How do you feel – that after the struggle and shame you felt, reward and fame have come your way?

10

/ May 29, 2016

•Mother & Daughter

Hmmm! Well, I will say it was God’s favour. I have an incredibly close relationship with my mother. Having Bailey’s support our bond and help spread the message of a mother’s love meant the world to us.

Let’s talk about your music. How is your new album doing? And, what challenges do you face as a female artiste in Nigeria?

My second album is still in the making and we hope to release it in the final quarter of the year. It will be my most personal work yet and I cannot wait to share it with the world, by God’s grace.

The challenges I face are the same every female entrepreneur in Nigeria faces. I own and run my own label and other businesses. Challenges would include access to funding, balancing my business and family life, building a support network etc. but I intentionally do not focus on those. I fix my focus on what I have working for me and I am always willing to learn.

Are you in a relationship? Any wedding bells soon?

That would be telling! Having said that, I am very private about my personal life as I believe the same way a 9-5 professional separates business from personal life is the same way everyone in entertainment should be allowed the same distinctions.

Talking about marriage, celebrity marriages don’t seem to last. Many marriages break up within two years. What do you think is the problem?

Celebrity marriages? I know some that have worked out. I also know some that haven’t. It’s not easy to live in the full glare of the public’s eye. The pressure to present perfection is very hard to maintain. We are all human; while some people can deal with personal life with a little more patience, some cannot. Everyone is different.

Finally, a word to children who look up to you.

My words will come by quoting Maggie Pitman’s poem. It says: Her hands held me gentle from the day I took my first breath Her hand held helped to guide me as I took my first step Her hands held me close when the tears start to fall Her hands were quick to show me she will take care of it all Her hands are not twisting with age and years of work Her hands needs my now needs Her gentle touch to rob away the hurt Her hands are more beautiful than anything can be, Her hands are the reason I am me.

Did you feel the absence of a father? Did you ask her about him? What did she tell you?

Yes, at some point, because I had friends asking me about my dad and I didn’t know what to say. I did ask my mom and she told me about my dad. Also, I got used to it because I had full attention from my family.

Lots of love from my uncles, grandma and my mother.

Did you miss that aspect of growing up?

What impact has it had on you today?

No, it didn’t. It has helped me so much because now, I’m very independent.

How do you relate with your mom, seeing she is not so much older than you?

She is much older than me. My mom is so relatable. She is very strict but fun at the same time.

Your mom is a famous woman now. How was life back then before fame? Compare then and now; what has changed for you?

Oh! There’s never been a famous or a nonfamous time; before people started seeing her as famous, she was famous at home.

How do people react when they hear that Waje is your mum?

People tend to be surprised but I see it as normal.

Growing up, did your mum listen to you or she always wanted to do things her way?

Generally, do you think parents should give children more credit?

Yes! I think parents don’t trust their kids as much because when we ask for little freedom, they blow up. They are too paranoid. (Laughs) What is your career path? Are you going into music?

No. I want to be a medical doctor but I also enjoy dancing and fashion.

As one who grew up with a single parent, would you say you had challenges as a result of that?

Not really.

A word of advice to children and mothers who are reading.

For children, your parents are the best friends you should confide in before any other because of their wealth of experience and love for us children. For parents, be patient with us kids and trust that you’ve taught us well.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: AHAM IBELEME STYLIST: THE STYLE INFIDEL HAIR: TONY FOR HAIRCRAFT MAKEUP: ZARON COSMETICS LOCATION: MAISON FAHRENHEIT HOTEL, VI, LAGOS.

HEALTHY LIVING101

HEA L T H

by - Teri Mendes

BECOMING A PARENT

10 Things That Might Surprise You yourself some extra time and try not to stress out about the whole thing.

2. Children Rack Up a Lot of Surprise Costs

Hello my dear readers, as children’s day is this week I thought to touch on parenting.

That time your loved one tells you those special words: “WE ARE EXPECTING”, “I AM PREGNANT”, “WE ARE GOING TO BE PARENTS”. It’s such a magical time and at the same time can be daunting! Raising a child is full of surprises. No matter how many books, parenting forums, and articles you read, nothing can completely prepare you for becoming a parent. If I could go back to before I had my first born and tell myself what I didn’t know I would experience, this is what I would say:

1.Making a Baby Isn’t as Easy as It Sounds

Some people are able to reproduce as easily as bunnies, but for others, that’s not always the case. The human body doesn’t really work that way. So if you’re thinking of having a child someday and want to plan the pregnancy for a certain time period, consider giving

There is one thing you will need a lot of in the first few years: Diapers. A whole lot of diapers. You know that already, but you’re probably still underestimating how many diapers you’ll end up buying (or washing, if you go the cloth route). This makes subscribing to a newspaper for the diaper coupons worth it alone.

Other expenses will seem to come out of the blue over the course of your child’s life.

Music lessons, for example, for thousands of naira a month, class trip costs, babysitting costs, and even medicine and medical fees can take you by surprise. Cost of daycare. (It’s like you need to take a second job to pay for the daycare that lets you work your first job.) So spend less on baby gear and keep in mind these unexpected (or unexpectedly high) costs that really add up.

3. You Will Lose and Surely Miss Sleep

Even past the infant and toddler stages, you might have sleep issues. Middle-of-the-night nightmares, your children sleeping between you and your significant other, difficulty getting them up in time for school, and so on. A word to the wise: Don’t start a sleep or nighttime habit (like letting your child into your bed in the middle of the night) you don’t want to continue until your child is in college.

4. You Don’t Need a Lot of Baby Stuff or Clothes

Strollers, car seats, playpens, swings, bouncy chairs, play mats, sleep hammocks, teething rings, bibs, burp cloths...babies seemingly need a ton of accoutrements.

Let me save you a lot of money: You don’t need even half

of those things.

Many new parents fear their babies will get bored or will need constant stimulation to develop super baby brains, but the truth is infants pretty much just sleep, wake up and cry to be fed, and then fall asleep after being fed.

You don’t need multiple, endless ways to occupy them even when they’ve started toddling, because everything is entertaining to a young child. (It’s also why babyproofing is important.) Also, kids tend to discard even new toys quicker than it took you to look for and buy them. I have a garage full of baby distractions and stuffed animals (the bane of my existence). To this day, I’m thinking: blocks or making toys out of toilet paper rolls would have saved me a lot.

Similarly, I wish I hadn’t bought so many baby clothes—at least new ones. For one thing, family and friends love to gift adorable outfits (who can resist buying tiny shoes, even if the baby can’t stand up?). For another, kids grow like weeds, so some outfits are rarely even worn before they don’t fit.

5. The First Few Months Are Pure Torture

I sometimes think babies’ cries are so grating, their sleep so erratic, and breastfeeding so painful just to harden up parents. If you can survive the first few months of Baby Boot Camp without losing your mind, you can survive anything—you’re like a superhero.

Because, really, the first few months are hell if you enjoy sleeping, showering, and functioning well.

Others told me it was hard. But it’s impossible to truly convey just what it’s like to wake up at night every two hours for several months. Or try to calm a baby who’s screaming inconsolably. Or deal with your body now being three sizes bigger than it used to be. Or struggle with not feeling like yourself for not just months but maybe even years.

The other thing to know, though, is that as bad as it gets, you’ll get through it. (Just don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially if you suffer from post-partum depression.) There are blissful, amazing moments during that period too, and, after enough time passes, you might even think back wistfully on this period and even be crazy enough to go through that torture again.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Hope this helps! Let me know what surprised you as a new parent. I’d love to hear from you email me - terimendes@gmail.com 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

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

Thanks Dare.

Dear Dare, 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! Teri M

May 29, 2016 /

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5

Powerful Nutrients

Every Child Needs

By - Pamela Echemunor In recent times, children have been receiving the wrong kind of orientation when it comes to foods. They believe more in sweet tooth and artificially produced meals such as is found in fast food restaurants and chemical-enriched snacks and drinks.

These industry-manufactured foods don’t promote healthy growth for children and may start to build all sorts of poisons in their system. Young children should be trained to love all that nature has to offer to enhance their everyday life and promote proper growth.

Here are five powerful nutrients that every child needs.

BANANA ORANGE

HONEY

POTATO

Potassium

On a daily basis, children are getting less and less potassium in their meals.

Potassium plays an important role in maintaining blood pressure, healthy fluid balance and helping muscles to contract.

Some parents believe in artificially

NUTS

produced foods so much that, as long as the list of ingredients includes ‘potassiumenriched’, they believe that it is safe. Stick to the basics like banana, sweet potatoes, fresh tomatoes (or tomato sauce), milk, honey, fish, orange etc.

MILK

Iron

Iron is vital because it plays an important role in helping the red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body and promoting brain development.

Recent research has shown that people who are overweight with high calorie intake have low percentage of iron in their system.

Children deficient of iron tend to have learning and behavioural SHRIMPS problems. Some iron-rich foods include fish, shrimps, beef, chicken, lentils, chick peas, raisins, whole wheat bread, soy etc.

SPINACH CORN

Vitamin E According to research, children within the ages of 3 and 8 don’t get the adequate amount of vitamin E they need on a daily basis. Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that protects cells from damage and promotes proper healing. Some foods that contain vitamin E include yoghurt, milk, peanut, corn, avocado and spinach.

Fiber 12

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WHEAT BREAD

Calcium

VEGETABLES

Children’s diets need to contain at least 19-25 grams of fibre daily. and Fibre is as an active ingredient that protects children from a wide array of chronic diseases later in life. Some fibre-rich foods include beans, wheat, high fibre cereal, chick peas, pasta, nuts, sweet potatoes, green peas, vegetables etc.

CHICKEN

SOY MILK

JUICE EGGS

FISH

Calcium is a vital part of food that should not be ignored because it develops the bone mass, nearly all of which is built in childhood and adolescence. Children and adolescents who are deficient of calcium are at risk of developing osteoporosis (brittle and fragile bones due to hormonal changes and calcium and vitamin D deficiency). Calcium-enriched foods are also rich in Vitamin D which not only strengthens the bones but prevents risk of other diseases especially type 1 diabetes. Some calcium rich foods include milk, juice, soy milk, cheese, eggs etc.

WITH

AYOKUNMI ABDUL By - Yemisi Suleiman

yokunmi Abdul is Chief Executive Officer of LKA Fabrics, a chain of stores that stock African prints. Four years on the business, with a number of LKA stores around Lagos, the Vlisco Franchise owner who left her job at Arik Air to pursue her dream in the fashion industry, speaks on the gains of the business. And as the world marked Children’s Day two days ago, the wife and mother of two, speaks on this special day and her dreams for the Nigerian child.

A

WITH

What does Children’s’ Day mean to you?

For me, it is a day set aside for children to be celebrated, just as we have Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and we celebrate them. With Children’s Day, we celebrate with lots of activities lined up for them.

Personally, how would you celebrate your children?

I took them out for a special treat to let them feel and know that the day was especially for them.

When it comes to fashion, how do you dress up your girl child?

When we talk about fashion, my daughter really motivates me. She knows more than me when it comes to girls’ fashion. She wants to do everything a girl should do, sometimes even tries to do above her age, but I caution her and let her know there are certain things she should not do until she gets to a certain age. She is so fashion conscious, she wants to look good always, which is good, so long as she dresses decently. I am so blessed to have her. She drives me and pushes me so hard. For instance, she wants to take over the business at her age and she will be ten in December. When it comes to fashion, she chooses what I wear. So I would say, I am so blessed to have her. I know she will go a long way.

A lot of young girls dress indecently these

days and even young boys are sagging and flying their shirts, what do you have to say about that?

I think it’s the parents. Children go with what they see around them especially with their parents, that is where it all starts from. My daughter and son see what we wear as parents and they take after us. So it depends on the parents, the society, the school and the kind of friends they have, those are the people that influence them. They need to move around with the right set of people and not those that will derail them. As parents, we need to know the kind of friends and company our children keep. It is very important in other to put them on the right path in life.

What is fashion like for you?

As long as it looks good, I don’t do what’s in Vogue. As long as I am comfortable with what I am wearing, I am good to go.

Do you have a beauty routine?

I try to do that, but one thing I do not miss is washing my face before I go to bed. Even if I do not take my bath, I must wash my face before bed.

It’s very important. Apart from that, I don’t go out of my way to do anything.

At what point do you think a child should start taking care of her skin, especially the girl child?

AYOKUNMI ABDUL

I would say at 18 years;, for me that is the mature age that she should know her right from wrong. As long as she is doing the right thing, not bleaching her skin, she should be fine.

How do you take time to relax?

I go on holiday, I love holidays.

Where is you best holiday destination?

Dubai, right now I am thinking of relocating there, it’s a beautiful place. I have been to the UK, and other countries, but I will choose Dubai any day.

Are you one for jewellery?

I love jewellery, nothing too heavy though, minimal pieces. I love earrings mostly.

Best make up brand?

Black Opal, it’s perfect for my skin.

What is your wish for the Nigerian child?

For the Nigerian child because of the society we are in right now, we can only wish them the best. With what we are going through now, we just hope that they get a brighter future and a better life here in Nigeria. They don’t have to go anywhere but get the best here. I am wishing them well and praying that the future gets better for them, because we don’t know what the future holds.

May 29, 2016 /

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PEOPL E

“ONE PARTY AT A TIME!”

:08034746487 | 08039675880

Nkechi AliBalogun @ 60

By Oscar Ochiogu

Bunmi Gbadamosi

Nkechi Ali-Balogun, one of the nation’s foremost female PR practitioners clocked 60 recently and family, friends gathered in a well attended event at the Civic Center to celebrate the humble and hardworking former chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR. It was a glitz event that had many distinguished personalities in attendance.

Funmi

Nkechi Ali-Balogun

Nelson-Moore

Rukky Tongo

Otumemine Opens flagship store

Susan EyoHonesty

By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

The fashion brand Otumemine, last week in Lagos, opened its flagship store in Ikeja. The formal opening which took place at its Oduduwa way location, attracted friends and patrons of the brand who came to savour what the new store has to offer.

The event also saw the unveiling of the brand’s lux collection of delicately crafted couture evening pieces. The artistic pieces, laced with nice details and embellishments were designed to ‘’fill a gap’’ says Creative Head of the Brand, Otumemine Nelson-Moore.

Bukky George

Funmi Adeyemi & Ronke Bolu

Mahmood Ali- Balogun

Ibiwoye Olukemi

Maria Onyia

Shirely

Vivian Ugoji

Prof & Mrs Akin Feleye

Nike Atobatele

Juliet & Ovie Binitie

Adeola Arofin

Dapo and moji williams

Udy Umondak

Lolade Aina

Benita Osifo

Thelma Okoli

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