Vital woman magazine (issue 1)

Networking And Connecting Visions

March 2012 / Issue 1 £2/€2/$2/N500

JSapphirah A Success Story

Real Estate Realities - The Basics

Vital Fashion Vital Home What's in this season?

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Contents

March 2012 / Issue 1

cover story page 3

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Funke Adeaga shares the success story behind Jsapphirah.

Her business outfit based in an affluent part of North West London, is successfully dressing some of London´s style conscious ladies.

feature 13 16 14 9

– Real Estate Realities – Careers Portfolio –Vital Bookshelf – Vital Home

fashion & beauty 7 10 12 17

– Style splash – Vital Fashion – Vital Beauty – Hair Segment

home page 9 makeover page 12 fashion page 10

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lifestyle 15 17

– Vital Devotional – Health and Wellness

food 18

– Chef´s Corner

vw events page 19

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food page 18 www.avitalwoman.com

Vital Woman

Editor's Note As the year 2012 begins with great hope, the story at Vital Woman is the same; it is a “new beginning” for us as we launch our long-awaited magazine!

Magazine Team Editor/Creative Director Lara Mfon

Fashion Writer Patrice Augustus-Brown

The buzz amongst our team here is infectious! We are all fired up to bring you the best! The enthusiasm has a ripple effect and we can see its positive effect in all other areas of our lives! It is my hope that you will catch on and first be filled with thanksgiving for God´s goodness toward you and yours over the years and look forward with positive anticipation into the future!

We begin the year with our first issue. We have so much in store for you, which will be unveiled in subsequent issues as we add some new and exciting columns. We look forward to receiving your e-mails and letters as we prepare for our next quarterly issue.

Together with our wonderful team of Writers, we bring you interesting articles on various subjects ranging from Fashion, Health, Career, Beauty and lots, lots more!

We do hope you enjoy the articles Believing that this year, with God on your side you will soar to greater heights!

Cheers, Lara. www.avitalwoman.com

Columnists Toks Ferreira-Aruoture Fara Lawan Bolaji Yemi Bayo Mfon Funke Adeaga Joshua Mfon

Advertising Executives Tinuke Kolawole advert@avitalwoman.com Fara Lawan advert@avitalwoman.com

Administration admin@avitalwoman.com

Editorial editor@avitalwoman.com

General Enquiries

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info@avitalwoman.com

Pamper Me Jewels www.pampermejewels.co.uk info@pampermejewels.co.uk

Vital Woman

Be Inspired

JSapphirah A Success Story "Be Inspired" is our main feature page. We feature personalities and their success story, with the aim to encourage and motivate our readers to also step out into what they believe to be their God - ordained purpose. We take a tour with them, exploring how they have accomplished what they have so far.

In our first issue, we have Mrs Funke Adeaga, a Minister at Jesus House and wife of Pastor Shola Adeaga, Associate Pastor at Jesus House, North West London. Sister Funke, as she is fondly called is Owner of JSapphirah Shirts, a boutique situated on Frognal Parade off Finchley Road, an opulent area in London's North West. Her fashion outfit caters for professional ladies in London and beyond.

In this interview, we provide some insight into how Mrs Adeaga turned her “dream� into a viable business that today meets the needs of many ladies.

I made my first purchase of some JSapphirah shirts in 2006 and I enjoy the exclusivity it brings me, the cuts are feminine and comfortable.

VW - Who is Funke Adeaga? I am married to Dr Shola Adeaga and I am mother to two teenagers, a girl and a boy. I run my own fashion label called JSapphirah, where I design and retail Ladies shirts, dresses and accessories. I am also a Pastor in Jesus House www.avitalwoman.com

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Vital Woman London, where I oversee a number Other people I consider stylish are of departments.

Victoria Beckham and Michelle Obama. I see Michelle Obama as the new Jackie O. These women always VW - How would you describe your c h i l d h o o d a n d e d u c a t i o n a l m a ke a n e f f o r t w i t h t h e i r background? I had a very happy appearance and embody a quote by childhood. Growing up, there were Coco Chanel that I love. She said: 6 of us children in the house and “I don't understand how a woman although we sometimes had our can leave the house without fixing childish squabbles, we also had a lot herself up a little - if only out of of fun. I studied History at Ahmadu politeness. And then, you never Bello University in Nigeria and then know, maybe that's the day she has subsequently studied Law as a a date with destiny. And it's best to be as pretty as possible for destiny”. second Degree in London.

– Coco Chanel VW - So, what was the main I love these women because they attraction into the world of design are always well turned out and and fashion? I believe my parents appear graceful. Their styles are first introduced me to the world of never garish. They are just simply fashion. Both of them were very elegant. stylish. I remember my mother going to Italy and getting these VW - How did JSapphirah come lovely outfits especially dresses, about? To give you a bit of a which were absolutely gorgeous. I background; I studied Law and then would try them on even though they worked in 'Legal & Compliance' for a were too big for me. As a child I number of years. In 2002, I was would make sketches, design made redundant from my Job as a clothes for my friends and show Compliance Manager at a Building them how to put colours together. Society and I had the option of either Fashion has always been part of my getting another job or setting up a life as far as I can remember. Colours business. I chose to set up my own fascinate me and I love to see business because, whilst I was clothes that are well made. I have working, I had been buying and always had a flair for design and love selling women's clothes and also combining colours to create had previous experience in retail. I innovative looks and styles. therefore used my redundancy package to set up the business in VW - Who in the Fashion industry 2004. I decided to design shirts has inspired you or do you consider because, I wore shirts a lot and I stylish? Well some of them are the realised that most shirts were the fashion icons of the past - the likes of traditional plain blue, pink and white Grace Kelly, Jackie Onassis and – you could hardly find shirts that Audrey Hepburn. I love their styles were different or exciting. Also Shirts because they are classic; what I are versatile items of clothing that often call “the effortless style”. are never out of place; whether as Effortless style is about being stylish part of a business attire or as a without looking like you've tried too component of a smart or casual hard. The concept of "effortless ensemble, you can never go wrong style" can seem contradictory with a shirt. I therefore decided to because being stylish does take design shirts that have that extra dash of daring. When I started, I had some effort.

a website, a tiny brochure and carried the shirts all over London to sell at people's homes. Then in 2007, I felt it was time to have a high street presence because whenever I advertised, people asked if I had a shop they could come to and see the shirts. I found a place on Finchley road and the rest - as they say - is history. I have been there for four and a half years now. Since starting I have also designed dresses and will eventually have a range of skirts and tailored trousers.

JSapphirah means God is beautiful. J stands for Jehovah, which means God and Sapphirah means beautiful in the Hebrew language.

VW - What does your role as MD of JSapphirah entail? As Managing Director, I am involved with every aspect of the business from the design to delivery. At the boutique I am the receptionist, sales representative, customer services officer and often times the cleaner. I believe in our product completely and I'm very passionate about what I do. I feel very privileged to be doing something that I love so much. It is a thrill to see the business evolve day by day and I look forward to the future with great excitement VW - You were recently interviewed on BBC Radio London, how did that come about? It was simply the favour of God. The presenter Joanne Good, visited the shop a few months ago and as we usually do, we ask customers for their email address so we can keep them informed about promotions that we have. I recently had a 2 day preChristmas sale and sent out an email to customers on our database. To my amazement, she responded by inviting me on her show. Being on the show was incredible; Joanne Good did such an amazing job to

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Vital Fashion "In terms of successfully managing the various roles, I believe that there is a time for everything."

- Mrs Funke Adeaga

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Vital Woman promote JSapphirah.

VW - Where do you see JSapphirah in 10 years from now? I see a chain of boutiques all over the world and JSapphirah becoming a household name by the grace of God. We would be designing every item of clothing that a woman would need in her wardrobe.

VW - If you could have done something slightly differently in your career or set up of your business, what would it be and why? Loads of things! People always have ideas about how to run a business, but half the time don't realise the responsibilities involved.

I am not good at numbers so I would have taken courses in accounting in order to help me sort out issues related to VAT. I also would have done more marketing. Initially I thought the shirts are beautiful so everyone will buy them and also thought because I had loads of friends they will all buy my shirts.

Over the years I have learnt that you can't just rely on your friends to make sales especially if you have a bigger vision for the business. You have to proactively seek new ways to attract more customers. You must also depend on God, you might want to take some decisions which may seem right to you but the Holy Spirit will tell you not to.

VW - How are you able to successfully function as Wife, Mother, Minister and Entrepreneur without compromising any one role? I can assure you that it is not easy juggling all these roles. I thank God that I have a very supportive husband. For me, my family is of paramount importance and despite our busy schedules my husband and I ensure that we make every moment together count. Whether it is 10 minutes in the morning or

spending our days off together, we ensure that those times are meaningful. We also schedule family holidays together. My daughter is now at university and my son is in boarding school, so they are away for a considerable part of the year but we make the most of the times when they are home. The key is in prioritising and being organised with my time. I fall a bit short on housekeeping; so I sometimes get someone to help with the cleaning.

At church I oversee five departments – the Women's Ministry (called Esthers'), the Ushering department, Hospitality department, the Cafe and the Front of House department.

Pastoring these departments can be demanding but fortunately I have amazing people who head each department, and that makes a big difference and also frees me up to do other things.

In terms of successfully managing the various roles, I believe that there is a time for everything. I could not have been as involved as I am now at church when my children were younger and at home. Also, I am not a workaholic; I listen out to what my body says to me and know when to take a break. I have been running the business for a few years and whilst in the early days I had little or no assistance, things have changed as the business has become more established.

I am now able to employ an assistant and do not have to be there everyday. It is also very important for every woman to have a support network of people you can call on when you need help.

VW -The vision of Vital Woman is to encourage, empower and enlighten our members, as they embrace their calling and step into their Godordained destiny whether in business/ministry. How do you

think your role as Minister, Mentor and Entrepreneur has impacted women generally? I have been privileged to speak to women in my various capacities and areas of responsibilities, and I am passionate about seeing the lives of women transformed. My aim each time I speak or come in contact with women is to get them to see themselves as God sees them. It is to see themselves as women who are highly valued by Him and with gifts that should benefit others. I am passionate about women understanding their worth in Christ and the realisation that they have a lot to contribute to society.

With regards to business, I encourage women not to wait to have a perfect environment before they start a business, because I believe things would never be 100% perfect. The most important thing is to be passionate about what you do.

It should be something you would do even if you were not paid for it. I tell them my story of how I started with limited funds and how God provided and continues to provide for me.

In terms of ministry, every woman should impact and influence those around her. Being a woman of influence does not mean preaching to a huge crowd; you can start by impacting those around you.

VW - What are your other interests?

I enjoy writing, travelling and reading. I love reading about how people started their business and especially how they overcame challenges.

Thank you for your time, Mrs Adeaga, our prayer is that your business continues to grow from strength to strength and that you continue to be an inspiration to many. God bless you.

Lara Mfon - VW

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Style Splash

Address of the boutique is Jsapphirah 4 Frognal Parade, 158 Finchley Road, London NW3 5HH. website address is www.jsapphirah.co.uk www.avitalwoman.com

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Out with the Old!

Vital Home

De-cluttering your space.

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lutter is noise in its physical state. It is distracting, annoying and it depletes your energy. Having a place for everything and everything in its place quietens that noise. If you are dealing with a 'clutter situation' start by writing a list of all the things that don't seem to have a place of their own then add a storage solution next to each. Some ideas are bills, school letters, artwork, and magazines, etc.

Bedroom Invest in good quality wooden hangers. Grab some trouser hangers that hold up to 5 pairs but take up the space of one. Recently I came across some awesome camisole hangers with bendable bars for hanging those annoying tops that keep sliding off regardless of how much we twist them. Shoe boxes or shoe racks keep your shoes neatly away and greets you with a sense of calm- because there are few things more irritating than stubbing your toe into stilettos left lying around, having been punished by them for 9 hours prior!

A bedside table creates an ideal spot for those allimportant bits and pieces like mobile phones, your bible or the magazine you're currently reading. A bedside lamp allows you to turn out the lights without having to get up, a necessary luxury after a hard-day's work!

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Kitchen A must-have is a large notice board, with a whiteboard section. The corkboard can be used to put up reminders. The white board can be used for your weekly menu and rolling shopping list by simply adding items as they run out, that way you won't waste time on multiple trips to the shop. Also writing it down rids your mind of its own clutter as you are not struggling to remember everything. You'll save on cupboard space if leave your condiment jars on the worktop. Citrus colours like green and yellow along with warm colours of red and orange are great for kitchens. Stainless steel and black have become en vogue in recent years, giving domestic kitchens a more industrial feel. Warm your space with brightly coloured dish cloths and potted plants in a similar colour Sitting room A storage stool or box is a great idea for the sitting room as it doesn't simply take up room. Store extra cushion covers, throws and even magazines in them. Mine have had the privilege of housing homework materials, colouring books and even favourite toys that need to be within reach. We want our homes to look lived in and not cold or apathetic, so having practical storage that doesn't erase the spontaneity and fun that life offers us only adds to the quality of our lives.

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t's that time again when you hang up your summer dresses and shop for your winter wonderland essentials! For some of us the desire to shop in this weather is non-existent. It's a lot easier to drag out the ancient woolly jumpers we've packed away and any old pair of black trousers until summer returns.

However it's time to make a change and embrace this seasons fashion trends (as well as your individual signature styles), in order to bring out the sophisticated and confident woman that you are.

So what's the 'in' thing? Sassy yet sturdy wedged boots, shoes with spikes, faux fur and 60's inspired styles are the latest autumn and winter fashion. Also don't be afraid of colour because bright oranges, crimsons, blues as well as rusty browns are definitely winners! These eye-popping tones can create a daring yet stylish combination. It's not about matching like the good ol' days, the idea this season is to be as 'colour clashing' as possible everything is mixed and blended even down to textures.

Dresses As the festive season is fast approaching that 'special number' is essential. This edition we will be looking at seasonal going out dresses. Whether you're looking for an occasion dress or that stunning party dress, snap up that all important look that suits YOU! Happy shopping!

Karen Millen,£210- www.karenmillen.com Now this is what you call pure class. Light up the room with this silky orchid corsage pencil dress. Complete with a detachable leather belt for a choice between glamorous or that simple classy effect. A pair of either nude or black peep toe platform shoes with a matching bag will work perfect with this dress.

Dorothy Perkins, £32- www.dorothyperkins.com Flourish in this tulip style, self belted dress. Not only is this beauty slimming but very comfortable to wear. A must have this season! This look can be completed with a pair of black shoes if you want to keep it safe, or to be daring try a pair of red heels with a red clutch bag.

Mango £159 www.mango.com Adorn yourself in this full length sequin gown. For that extreme occasion which requires

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Vital Fashion the wow factor. Silver accessories will compliment the colour of this dress.

Dorothy Perkins, £40 www.dorothyperkins.o.uk Less is so much more in this sleeveless, black, pleated wrap dress. This glam number will see you through this season and beyond.

After all, we all need a reliable little black number. If you want to give it that colour clashing edge, some strappy multicoloured sandals will do the trick!

Karen Millen-£175 www.karenmillen.com A personal favourite! A Grecian – styled drape dress that is sure to bring out the queen in you. As this is a very refined look, keep it simple with black peep toe or strappy shoes. £55, www.rarefashion.co.uk It's all about making a statement in this frilly number. This is definitely a festive season show stopper. Complete the look with some simple black platform shoes.

This is just a taster of what is out there this season but whatever you choose to wear out, remember to celebrate who you are as individuals and acknowledge that you are truly beautiful inside and out.

Stay blessed, Patrice

Pashminas , Capes And Capelets For those of you who are fortunate to be in a warmer climate, here is a range of elegant capes, capelets and pashminas that will add even more glamour to your outfit.

Topshop, £95 - www.topshop.com This versatile embellished fringed capelet will put the 'class' in classy.

Miss Selfridge, £10- www.missselfridge.com Get rid of that chill in this Grey feature cape comfy to wear and add pizzazz to your festive number.

Red - John Lewis, £89 www.johnlewis.com Cashmere and silk pashmina.

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Vital Beauty

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s a makeup artist I am very particular about matching the foundation with a client's skin tone and also making sure that the foundation lasts all day. On meeting a client, I ask several questions before anything else. What is the skin type; oily, dry, or combination skin? What foundation and concealer do you currently own or use? What moisturizer do you use and do you use a primer?

This past weekend, I went makeup shopping with a client that loves makeup but has no idea what to use and how to use them. Like every other client that I worked with, she was more concerned about learning how to apply eye shadows and using several colors on her eyes. On the other hand, I was more concerned about getting the right shades for her base since that's the most important aspect of makeup. She had several eye shadow pallets but had no concealer or foundation that was her shade.

They were either too dark or too light.

We decided to go to a MAC counter at the mall close to her where it will be easy to see several shades that will suit her. I explained to the artist that she had oily skin and we wanted a foundation that is oil free, goes on matte,

last all day and one that best suits her yellow under tone. We got the perfect shade and I made sure we went out first to look at her face in natural light before going in to purchase the foundation and the concealer. We also got a powder that she will need to set the foundation and the concealer. This aspect of applying a base is very important. In the words of one of my best makeup artist, Sam Fine, he says that powder on foundation is like nail top coat on nail polish. It seals everything. I also made sure we purchased an oil controlling lotion that acts as a primer.

This will help her makeup last longer and shine free. The next thing I had on my list was a good eye brow pencil. Eyebrows frame the whole face. A good shaped brow always need filling in unless you have very thick brows. We got the MAC brow pencil in stud. I love this pencil for its preciseness.

Vital Beauty article written by: 3D Looks Makeup Artistry Makeup Artist- Victoria Dada Victoria@3dlooksmakeup.com www.facebook.com/3dlooks

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Real Estate Realities

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inally pen to paper or should I say fingers to keyboard whichever expression you prefer to use, all I can say is that the journey has begun. I consider it an honour and a privilege to be given the opportunity to use the Vital Woman platform to begin a personal journey into the realisation of a long pending write-up or blog, if you will. We back at headquarters, decided collectively to title the blog Real Estate Realities which can be directly deduced from our desire to create a space where our real estate experiences can be shared and where we can shatter some mind sets that people have, due to the many delusions and misconceptions that people have about the realities of being involved with real estate in one form or another and the consequential realities of their entanglement.

The blog can be accessed at http://realitiesinrealestate.blogspot.com They say shelter is one of the greatest needs of man, second only to food and thereafter clothing. The question is 'Is it worth the trouble- sometimes?' It's not all tales of woe and bad experiences; the only caveat I have for you is ‌depending on where you live in the world! Please be informed that the pros of real estate ownership far outweigh the cons, assuming you are at the receiving end of the unexpected reality, as we will together find out on this endless journey that begins with these few words. Real estate realities in Nigeria are very different from the real estate realities you will find in the UK, New Delhi and indeed the pueblos (villages) of Spain. Still in spite of these unique differences, certain realities are simply common to all!

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Why such a title and why now? I suppose it may have something to do with the many many years I spent garnering various forms of experiential knowledge in the industry from when as a Law graduate of the University of Buckingham, who desperately hadn't caught on to the Nigerian Dream and therefore the pursuit of legal practice back in the motherland, decided to give life as a self-employed businessman a spin. After just a few months in business, I experienced some real estate realities of my own when through the shrewd and 'dog eat dog' attitude of my fellow practitioners, I quickly learnt that Law taught in the university is very different from Law as taught and learnt on the streets, especially the streets of North West London, particularly Kilburn High Street, where the business was securely located in a cosy business centre.

In summary - 'no rent, no office' and 'no office, no business'!

Where are you in the value chain of real estate interests? Are you a property owner, a tenant; a squatter or a friend tagging along with a friend who is one of the before mentioned? I hope for your sake you`re not a friend who is about to lose the friend you are currently irritating as a 'no longer welcome guest' of their home! Even a child living under the roof of someone has a reality of some nature to share.

Whether it is in a legally binding setting or an informal arrangement; the real estate realities abound! Well, we have started. Let us see where the road leads us next.

What has been your‌Real Estate Reality?

Stay connected, Bayo Mfon

VITAL BOOKSHELF

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My Book Review

nsightful Tips for the Unique 'Mature' Single [in her 'wait' for 'Mr Right'], first came together as a means of me documenting my thoughts on singleness at a crucial time in my life when, what seemed like a time when everyone was either getting married or talking about marriage, and under this enormous pressure to conform to what everyone else was doing, I had to know for myself, that I was not going to jump on the marriage 'band wagon' due to peer pressure from others because of the fact that I was a mature, single individual, but that I was going to trust my entire future to the God of the Universe. Also, that if marriage was not going to be a route that God had chosen for me that He had an alternative plan, whereby I could still feel a sense of worth as an individual in the person I was, and not be pressured into making assumptions that marriage was the 'be all and end all' and the ultimate goal for an individual's life.

Insightful Tips for the Unique 'Mature' Single is a book of priceless gems/nuggets for the woman of a mature age, who perhaps has a genuine desire to be married, however, for reasons only known to God, the

circumstances in her life to-date have not presented the appropriate opportunity to realise that desire – what does she do? Does she allow this set-back to stop her in her tracks of being all that God has created her to be, or does she confidently get on with her life until her circumstances change and God brings His God-given choice into her life? And the book is all about the latter option, of this rather 'unique' individual, flourishing as a single woman in God and the fruitfulness and rewards of what such a life can afford.

I challenge you to start reading the book for yourself and from the feedback I have received, I can promise you that you won't be able to put it down as the various chapters, which you will find all relevant to your day-to-day lives, will inspire and encourage you not to put your life on 'hold' in this 'waiting' season, but to live a vibrant life to the full.

So now that I've wetted your appetite a bit, what are you waiting for? Order a copy for yourself or perhaps a friend via Amazon, and allow this book to excite and stimulate your taste buds for all that God has for you as a 'mature' single woman in today's contemporary society – be blessed by it.

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Vital Devotional

Door of Hope “I will return her vineyards to her and transform the valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope.“ : Hosea 2:15

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believe, the word of the Lord to us for this season is HOPE. What is this hope? What is it based on? What does the Bible have to say about it?

These are some of the questions that come to mind and through the word of God. We can gain some insight into this precious word.

hope of ours has ability and potential which actually “leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary”.

WHAT IT IS The Bible-based kind of hope; is based on God's promises it is an extension of faith something we yearn for and anticipate eagerly (has substance) it is also something for which one waits. it is confident expectation with sure basis (1Thessa:1:3)

I don't know to what you would like to appropriate this hope today, but so long as it is based on God's promise to you, I encourage you to be confident in the word of God to you today.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.

“They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope,” Jeremiah 29:11.

Colossians 1:27, gives us confidence that Christ in us is the hope of glory, so whether you appropriate your hope (for example) for salvation, healing or a financial miracle, at least one thing is certain that we all have this WHAT IT IS NOT Hope which the Bible talks about is not just; an hope of the glory which is to be revealed and it is Jesus optimistic outlook, neither is it wishful thinking without Christ in us. Therefore we cannot do without this hope, which the Bible encourages us to have and appropriate. any foundation.

Our hope should be based on God's promises Hebrews 6:19, says of our hope that it is “a strong and In Christ's service. trustworthy anchor for our souls”, It also says that this Lara Mfon. (A Very Present Help)

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Careers

Portfolio Are You In The Right Career?

Do You Want To Be Happy And Free?

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hoosing our Career path is one of the most essential aspects of life, personally I believe this is more natural and easier than choosing a life partner.

Everyone has an inborn talent that is supposed to be developed and used wisely to create wealth, therefore recognizing this talent is very crucial for every human being. The unfortunate thing is, not everyone is aware of this hence the reason why we end up doing jobs that are way out of our league. Many of us discover later on in life that we are in the wrong field or line of business, and never do anything about it, resigning and accepting that it is too late to change to that which will bring joy and happiness. In my opinion that is a kill-me-softly attitude. Many wake up in the morning hating the so-called career they had invested so much time and money in but, keep trudging in this area with the hope of getting a better package with another company or with the anticipation

that a higher salary will give the satisfaction they so much desire.

Only to discover that it's quite the contrary, it just means more responsibilities and less spare time.

If the truth be told, the fear of not having any income or seeking a higher paid salary to meet ones needs should not be the attitude

people I grew up with or who I looked up to started off in careers that will keep a roof over their heads and bread on their table. Majority dared not venture to mention their hearts desire to their parents, in those days it was a taboo for someone to even suggest against Dad's desire. If Dad's wish was for the child to study Law, Law it was and it was not debatable because any other suggestion, not only portrayed the child as a rebel but also meant an end to his compulsory contribution to the child's education. If the truth be told this has by no means brought any kind of happiness or freedom in the lives of such a person. However there is still hope and all we need to do is get out of the trap.

Getting out of the trap is so easy as long as we are ready to develop the skills of our inborn talents. ?”How do I get out ‹of “t‹he tr‹ap#

towards success in life but success is simply doing what you like.

'Doing what you like is happiness and liking what you do is freedom'.

It's amazing that only a few of us started off in the careers that we really love and treated as hobbies instead of turning them into money # Look out for this in our next issue making ventures. Most of the Bolaji Yemi, 2011

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VITAL HEALTH

Health and Wellness, Woman and Health, Health and Wellness In this segment of our magazine, we bring you information collated by our team of writers. Interesting and useful facts that can help improve our lifestyle.

acetic acid which has a deteriorating effect on the liver. Alternatively, try lemon juice. 1998 Robbins Research Int Inc' Refined white Sugar has been

Useful Health Facts.

Drinking Water 1-2 litres a day is a must for your system. It is essential for our bodily functions and helps

depleted of its life forces minerals and vitamins. You may want to try unrefined Brown sugar – tastes even better - Excess sugar as we know begins to break the body organs. www.ghchealth.com My final thoughts if you are struggling to keep up with healthy eating, please balance your body system with lots and lots of water. EssieRewane-Adejare 2010 cure some basic health issues. It tends to act as a strength and immunity buster.

Too much fats and oil intake could cause excess cholesterol in the body.

Drain the fat and oil from the food or reduce/monitor your fat intake.

Reduce your Salt level to avoid heart disease and hypertension -30's and above Beware.

Hair Segment

Question “My hair was damaged after I had it relaxed in a hair salon. My scalp has been extremely itchy ever since and my hair keeps breaking. Can you please give me some advice that would help repair the damage and restore my hair?”

Advice by Hair Segment Vinegar: Can be addictive and it has It's quite unfortunate that you had

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to experience that and in a hair salon too.

Over-processed hair can affect the hair and scalp in many different ways; from dryness to minor scalp irritation. It is highly likely that your hair follicle (where the hair grows from) has been damaged and when this happens the follicle closes.

My advice to you is to begin a course of treatments, this will in some cases re-open the closed hair follicles and growth will slowly begin again.

Moisturize hair daily. Conditioning treatments helps restore hair. Trim ends of hair to remove damaged hair.

Suggested products for damaged or limp hair: · Affirm 5 in 1 Reconstructor for damaged or fine limp hair. · Aphogee treatment for damaged hair rebuilds hair structure.

Do not relax hair until hair condition has been restored and breaking has stopped.

If the itching persists, seek medical advice.

Article written for Vital Woman by Esther of Anointed Hair Designs contact Telephone +447956338809 If you have any questions relating to hair, send your questions to admin@avitalwoman.com

CHEF´S CORNER

Binging? Guilty!!!

M

y article is supposed to help others on the proper and effective way to eat and ultimately BE healthy. But as I ponder on my first article for the magazine, (congratulations to VITAL!), I can't help but think on what I need to change, for instance I have a terrible eating pattern, I seldom eat breakfast and when I do it'll be too late to think of it as breakfast, I only still call it breakfast if I've eaten too much in a day and I'm trying to bypass the guilt. Lunch is sometimes 2 cookies (with 40% choc chip), a bowl of chin-chin with peanuts and a one litre glass of concentrated fruit juice or iced tea.

I tell myself this is healthy eating as I haven't touched any “live form of carbs” all day (who am I kidding?). Dinner is always proper as my husband insists on having a “proper meal” and I don't mind because he loves to cook anyway! So my daily allowance of carbs, proteins, and vitamins (veggies) are piled on one plate, and I'm feeling real neat with myself, thinking I'm doing fine and eating healthy. All the while I've been nodding my head with a smug look on my face as I smack my lips.

Be well aware here that I have not mentioned the toast spread with peanut butter and jam that my daughter refused to eat and I didn't want it wasted or the ice cream I 'had' to take because it was definitely going bad (yeah, right!) or the

soft drink I had when it was so hot, I felt I was going to melt. ALL IN ONE DAY! I feel guilty writing it down; because I can see the damage I am doing to not only my body but eventually my skin.

As I go ahead and write on proper eating habits, I choose to write it as a reminder to myself, as part of my healthy lifestyle.

So for the next four issues, we will focus on HEALTHY EATING (please repeat after me……..). First we will take a look at a guide to fruit fasting and detoxing.

Secondly, it will be the essence of veggies and why vegetarians seem to have the perfect curves without liposuction. Next, what is a balanced diet\meal? and how do we achieve this everyday. And finally, it will be what experts term as Daily Guideline Allowance and translate it into readable menus that will work for various body types and different climates.

I will like to keep a dairy during these issues to see how much has been lost and gained, I hope you will keep a dairy along with me as this will also be featured later. I pray as we journey into this experience together, we will not only find our desired bodies but we will also be of sound mind and superb confidence.

Looking forward to sharing more of our stories together. Welcome to VITAL……., Fara Lawan is MD of Nibbles Grills & Small Chops, a Catering Outfit.

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OH! So Random!

I

n this segment, we look for random people and businesses doing things outside of the “box”. These are people engaged in activities out of the “norm” of what society has defined for them and making a great success of it!

We want to keep this segment exciting with fresh new ideas, so we invite you to send an email to editor@avitalwoman.com with information about businesses or people doing remarkable things that you've spotted! Articles will be chosen at random and featured. Please remember to include your name when you send in your email.

In this issue, we feature a lady who chose to run a business that very few women venture into.

She is CEO of Al – Finesz 1st Choice Electro Mall, a retail outlet whose focus is on providing quality home appliances to its customers.

Says the CEO; "Our focus is to provide top quality Home appliances and products that add Beauty, Class and Style to your home while improving your standard of living in the process.

Carefully selected brands of Home Appliances, Air Conditioners, Kitchen Appliances, Interior Decor and beautiful Home Essentials.

Love is the compelling force that drives us. Love for the family unit. We want to help make daily chores easier. We want to help improve the quality of life in the home by providing Home appliances which helps save time while you spend time with those you love.”

"At Al - Finesz 1st Choice Electro Mall only the best will do!"

Contact Telephone Number: +234 8037098859 (Port Harcourt, Nigeria)

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VW Events th

On the 25 of June 2011, Our VW Fashion and Crafts show was held in Oxley Park, Milton Keynes, UK. It was a beautiful sunny day with lots of colourful displays by each exhibitor.

A fantastic combination of both new and seasoned Entrepreneurs coming together to showcase their work!

Here are just a few p h o t o s a n d comments made by some of our exhibitors.

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VITAL MARKETING

Events Marketing and PR Preparing for an exhibition You have booked your stand at the exhibition and you have the dates and times all set in your diary. It suddenly occurs to you that you do not know all the things you might need to take with you to the exhibition and you might begin to panic.

My advise is to always begin with the end in mind. Start with a picture of how you see your stand on that day and begin to piece things together. Sometimes, in order to achieve this you will need to ask yourself a series of questions; · What image do I want to project to prospective clients on that day? · How best can I display my products or service literature that will help make them look attractive and catchy? · Exactly what is being provided by the organisers? · What time do the doors open to the exhibitors for set-up?

In answering these questions, bear in mind that this will be the first time that some of your prospective clients will see you and you know what they say about a first impression! Make plans well in advance for your beauty regime, whatever that is; Your hair, nails and outfit should be at their best. This is a business function and an investment into the future of your business.

Remember also to allow plenty of time for set up. If you have young children also arrange well in advance for childcare and have a contingency plan in place as late cancelation by your child-minder can mess up your other plans.

Here is a general list for essentials you will need on the day. · Business or complimentary cards. · Leaflets/flyers of promotions or subsequent events. · Appropriate size carrier bags for items purchased by attendees. · Suitable background for your table/stand. · Think of a colour theme/code for your business. · Bring along any special offer tickets or coupons. · Display units e.g for cakes or jewellery. · Notepad and pens for writing down notes or client details. · Receipt book and order forms. · Small notes and coins for purchases made by clients.

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· · · ·

Alternate payment system if applicable.

Measuring tape where necessary.

Where possible, an extra pair of hands.

Most importantly smile and be friendly – you look more approachable and welcoming. · Be prepared – It is often said and I know from experience that preparation indeed is 90% of work done.

Don't forget to invite your friends, family and clients that you know in town. It is a great opportunity to show them your collection. Notify them through Facebook/Twitter and send constant reminders to all contacts. Think of the exhibition as your opportunity to get in as many people as you can to view your work.

Some of your clients may even purchase from you an item which you have repeatedly carried around, your display may help them see your products a lot more clearly.

Many attendees make purchases and see it as an opportunity to bag lots of bargains! So think up incentives that will make shopping on the day fun for them!

Events like this makes for a great day out. As you prepare and work hard towards having a great display coupled with a friendly and warm attitude, don't be surprised when attendees become more encouraged to exchange contact details or make a purchase. This is fueled through the conversations they have with you and as they become more knowledgeable about your products/services they feel better connected to you and what you do.

Understandably, there is a sense of appreciation that comes into play when a purchase is made at an exhibition however, don't forget that your main focus should be to collect leads for future sales. I have seen over and again how contact was made at an exhibition which led to gaining a loyal client. Basically a relationship was formed and trust was built! Never underestimate the power of good relationships. In reality you cannot put any monetary value on it!

Lastly, remember to enjoy yourself as you prepare for a great day out to meet amazing people, learn new things about yourself and grow your business! Make sure you network and connect with other exhibitors you might as well be on your way to a new discovery, a beautiful collaboration or some joint venture initiative! © Lara Mfon 2012.

For details of our next exhibition, visit www.avitalwoman.com

VITAL SUCCESS

F

ollowing on from his first article to Vital Woman - “How to hit a financial home run” published on our blog in May 2011, which received some amazing response from our readers. We have invited him back and here in the first issue of our magazine, Femi shares more insightful nuggets with us on the sought-after subject of Success. - VW

his people process their thoughts to a different place of thinking.

Abraham was told to count the stars of the sky and the sand of the sea, if he could, God used to make Abraham think bigger and wider than he had ever imagined possible.

God can only make your dreams and visions come true while you have the responsibility of thinking how big you want them to be. If you cannot think big, you cannot achieve big.

HOW TO HIT A FINANCIAL HOME The Bible says "God will grant you RUN (PART 2) the desires of your heart". Whatever If you have decided you truly want the mind can conceive, and believe; to be rich and become more it can achieve. successful than you already are; and you also have been able to discover how the effects your friends have on your arrival to your destination 'SUCCESS' then the question to ask is "WHAT DO YOU THINK?!"

QUESTION 2: WHAT AND HOW DO YOU THINK?!

What you think has a lot to do with how far you go, for example, the bible says “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he". What you think, goes a long way to deciding your Are your thoughts processed in line destination. If you are a 'wisher', or o r a t v a r i a n c e w i t h y o u r the type that thinks dreams and dreams/visions, if your thoughts envisions nothing, then you have differ from your dreams/vision then already arrived at your destination. it becomes impossible to achieve. If When you look at yourself, what do you want to be promoted in your you see?! If you think small of present place of work, begin to see yourself you can't achieve anything yourself promoted to that new big. God told Abraham to leave his level, all you have to do now is begin father's house, his kindred to the to act and dress for that office. place he will show him, what God Every achiever, or person heading told him to do was to leave the way for success, have one thing in

common, they see themselves as having arrived at their destination before they even take the first step.

There was a warrior that took his army to war on an island, on their arrival, his much smaller army, had just disembarked from the ship, he saw that the army of the enemy was more powerful than they were; they got scared and decided to return to their ship in surrender. The warrior; being the visionary; who had seen the success ahead; in the eyes of his mind; set the ship ablaze, then he turned to his army and said to them "It's either we fight to win or die trying" The warrior's army later fought that war and won.

The Wrights brothers had a thought; that was unthinkable, they thought of transporting people in the air, in a contraption made of steel that will oppose the law of gravity. The irony of it all was that after their great success; it had become seemingly unthinkable for anyone to travel long distance without thinking of the means of transport that once upon a time; was 'unthinkable'.

For one to be a success in any endeavour, the way and manner they think is of great importance in determining what and who they become in life. My advise will be for you to think big and think positively, believing in your dreams, visions, goals and SUCCESS will be achieved.

Whether you will be rich or poor is a function of your thought process.

I would like to tell you the story of

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VITAL SUCCESS two successful bankers that I bear witness of their great success. It all started when they were to attend a course at the prestigious Harvard University in Boston. As at the time they were sent on the course they thought they already had it all, Houses in choice areas, Choice cars, they had the means to travel on vacation to any part of the world and could afford VIP treatment in any first class hotel around the world.

They had already risen to the posts of Executive directors of the bank where they worked.

The Harvard brochure caused a stir in the way they had been thinking.

T h e b ro c h u re s i m p l y a s ke d participants to tick the means of transportation they were coming to school with. They had various options like Bus, Taxi, Car, Limo, Helicopter and finally a private jet.

They thought to themselves that no one was going to be there with a private jet. The bankers happened to have been scheduled for different periods for the course, When the first banker attended class to his greatest surprise out of a class of about 40 participants, 27 came with private jets by the time the second banker went in to his class of 40 participants, 22 of them came with jets and this singular action changed their thought process forever.

When they arrived from the courses they never returned to their former place of employment, as they retired their appointments and bought over a bank which they now co-own, the bank is 4 times its original size was when they bought controlling shares. They learnt how to think big.

Plan, this brings us to the next question QUESTION 3: WHAT IS YOUR PLAN?!

A lot of us know how to dream and even dream very big; however, most average people stop at dreaming and never plan their dreams. A plan is something that someone has arranged to do in line with their dreams. If this dream, big or small, is not arranged for action then it will remain a dream. Myles Munroe, a pastor and motivational speaker, once said that the richest place on earth is not a gold mine but the cemetery, reason dreams that never came to life are in the people that dreamt them without sharing such dreams. A lot of people die with big dreams they never achieved because they refused to plan.

Success, dreams, riches ONLY respond to Definite Plans.

Tiger Woods, one of the world's greatest golfers, did not just start winning golf trophies by mistake, his father trained him from a tender age, he had to wake up extra early at about 5 am in the morning for practice, there was a definite plan which Tiger Wood's father worked to make sure his son became one of the best golfers the world has seen.

There was a man by name Edwin C Barnes; his dream was to become the business associate of Thomas Now that you know that you have to Edison the inventor of the light bulb. dream big, the next thing to do is His desire was not to be a worker for

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the inventor but to be his business associate. As at the time of dreaming Edwin did not have anything but his dream. He was unable to purchase a train ticket to enable him go to Orange, New Jersey where Thomas Edison's office was. With a strong desire to achieve his dream he joined a freight train to Orange. On getting there he headed straight for Thomas Edison's office, Edison took one good look at him and took him for a tramp.

Edwin C Barnes never let the fact that Edison perceived him as a tramp affect his desire in any way, he was given a regular job by Edison, a job he worked at for 5 years, a job that was not his dream. Edwin Never stopped believing in his dream of being Thomas Edison's business associate while he worked for those 5 years. The opportunity eventually presented itself when Thomas Edison invented some business machines that all Edison's marketing staff believed could not be sold, It was only Edwin that believed in the machines and sold them all. Edwin's success made Edison offer him partnership in his company.

Edwin C Barnes backed his definite plans with a strong desire and focus not to work with anyone else aside Thomas Edison as his business associate. His plans/goals did not have any vague areas. The dream was properly translated in writing and laced with a time frame coupled with persistence to achieving the desired goal.

Any plan that is not put down in writing remains a dream, as soon as it is put down in writing it ought to have a time frame in order to monitor the progress of the goal to be achieved. Š Femi Kolawole 2012

K. eep O. rigins F. rom I. nside Real name Michael Kofi Asante, a 17 year old student in the phase of his A-levels is an up and coming Musician, rapper to be preferable. That plays in the court of Gospel rapping and Gospel rapping only.

K.o.f.i also dabs in inspirational poetry and Is part of a group called Triple G, he has two other team members Raph the Originator (Raphael Tamakloe) and Lieutenant-Bars (Dylan Mcdonald).

I have known Kofi for about 2years plus now, and I have never doubted his lyrical power, freestyling skill or punchline genius. His musical career has just started to rocket with invitations to radio stations such as Voice of Africa radio station and Esteem Radio station Kofi and his group have also performed at the Enabling Centre for Ghana's independence. Triple G the name of K.o.f.i 's, Raph the originator and L-bars (Lieutenant bars) stands for God's Given Grace.

Vital Youth: What do you do?

K.O.F.I: I do gospel/inspirational rapping/poetry.

Vital Youth: Do you find you targeted the right audience?

K.O.F.I: I think I did because there are definitely people that love gospel poetry, and it's different from the usual type of music that we hear.

Vital Youth: How do you balance your dream with reality?

K.O.F.I: Realistically I don't know how far music will get me, but I keep at the back of my mind, if I work hard and have a good work ethic, I will get far.

Vital Youth: Do you find it's time-consuming, seeing that you are studying for you are studying for your A Levels at the same time?

K.O.F.I: Sometimes I find it time consuming but I benefit from it, because I invent great lyrics in that time.

Vital Youth: What advice will you give to people starting out on their dream?

K.O.F.I: The advice I would give to people like this is to work hard, and if you know it's what you want, go for it.

Vital Youth: What about the financial aspect?

K.O.F.I: Financially I'm not the richest but I have just about enough to do what I need to do every day, and some Interview by Josh Mfon. Vital Youth 2012.

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VW Shopping Editor´s Choice

Our lovely handmade soaps are made with the finest exotic oils, herbs and botanicals we can source and contain no artificial fragrances, surfactants, and parabens. Made with the traditional cold process method to preserve the beneficial properties of the ingredients, we prefer to leave them to cure for 4 weeks to produce mild, long lasting bars. All our soaps are vegetarian friendly and are not tested on animals. www.etieno.com

My first choice would have to be a selection of luxury body products from www.etieno.com, well deserved after a hard day's work.

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