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women in business 7 THINGS YOU MUST STOP DOING IN BUSINESS LIFESTYLE
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THINGS TO DO BEFORE 30
Beauty
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EMMA NYRA FASHIO N
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Issue 01 - Multicover #4 www.tribalotStyle.com
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The Unspoken Narrative @afwhouston.com
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THIS ISSUE COVERS
Tribalot PuBlisher
Kelechi Kanu Ivi Director of Global PArtnership
Cynthia Nwaubani Production Manager
Momo Lewis editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Juliet N Obiahu EXECTIVE EDITOR
Chigozie Ohanele ART Graphic Design
CocoBox Production PHOTOGRAPHER
Fotos By Ben Makeup Artists
E D I tor ’ S D E S K When it comes to style, individuality is highly essential. Though elegant and unique designs always catch our eye, designers with distinctive characters truly resonate. This maiden issue of Tribalot Style bears eloquent witness to how individuality translates into designs. Our aim is to take you, our readers, on a voyage of contemporary fashion as well as invite you to glimpse behind the veil into the world of each hand selected designer, and their collections as well as participate in thought provoking articles from columnists. This first issue of Tribalot Style celebrates the marriage of culture and modernism; bold, familiar prints paired with modern silhouette, exquisite designs and post-modernism. While on this journey through each page, valuable information for business, entertainment, fitness, health and all the things that inspire each of us to pursue a robust life. This is an ode to resilience as exemplified by our feature article on Emma Nyra, as well as a beacon of inspiration to all to live life in bold patterns. Welcome to our beginning.
Juliet N. Obiahu
Editor-in-Chief
Napoleon Rose by Nikole Viva Jika by Nkemjika Mbamalu Adiba _ MUA by Adiba Obigbo Beat by Val, by Traden Valion contributors Faozy Animu Kristi L Jackson Marketing/PR Bosses in Heels Sainabou Manneh Tochi Kanu Ivi
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in any form or medium of this magazine without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising materials. For more information, email: media@tribalot.com. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Tribalot Style or Tribalot LLC.
cover 50. EMMA NYRA Unrefined, relentless and authentic
DESIGNERS SPOTLIGHT
LIFESTYLE
06. CHIEMELIE
30 things to do before 30
Brithish based fashion house with an Afro-European touch
10. BLINSHIKI
Dashiki plus bling = Blingshiki
14. SOSOME
18 questions with Sosome
40. MOTIVATION
44. BUSINESS
WOMEN IN BUSINESS 7 things you must stop doing in business
58. HEALTH
18. ATTOLLE CLOTHIERS Lawyer to runway
Faith, fitness and family with Leah Egwuatu
22. 3REEC’S
60. TRAVEL
The woman with multiple Hats
28. TAMRIS
Two sister, one city, one clothing cline
34. TRIBE OF DUMO Two sister, two lionesses, one tribe
Not all adventures are expensive
CHIEMELIE
Chiemelie is a British based fashion house that focuses on bringing an Afro-European touch to women’s clothing. Chiemelie’s signature is blending and harmonizing the bright, bold, elegant and colorful qualities of African fabrics with rich, graceful, European fabrics to create trendy contemporary looks. We had a quick chat with the creative director Chiemelie Umeh about style, the industry and family.
TS: Who is the “Chiemelie” woman? The Chiemelie woman is very aware of herself, and comfortable in her own skin. She is not bound by rules nor defined by trends. She loves style and loves to make a fashion statement without necessarily being in your face. She’s bold, chic and beautiful. TS: Why go to college to study pharmacy and not fashion? At the time I studied Pharmacy, I did not have as much information as I have now regarding choosing to study fashion. I just knew there was something about me and fashion. Secondly, in Nigeria then, it was considered safe to study a course like pharmacy that will definitely put food on the table before pursuing any other career interests. Fashion has evolved so much since I left and so many opportunities abound now that were not there earlier on. Nevertheless, right from secondary school, I had done different tailoring apprenticeships while studying pharmacy. I did find alternative ways of acquiring the skills I needed for my future fashion career. TS: You have been on some of the biggest fashion shows out there, which would you consider your proudest so far? I had the opportunity to showcase at Africa fashion week London 2015 and I also exhibited at the Pure London show. I honestly can’t pick which was my proudest because I really enjoyed being at both shows. I hope to show case at NYFW and LFW, that would take a lot of research and preparation but that’s exactly why I love what I do; the thought, the research, the love that goes into each piece of clothing is what makes the work worth it and that is what we’ll love to convey to everyone in every catwalk show we’ll be attending. TS: What is your design process? Is there something or someone you tap into to get inspiration for your designs? [Laughs] I love structure and detail and fashion houses like Balmain, Balenciaga, Elie Saab, Dior, they inspire! I love to keep my fabrics within viewing distance and look at it for days till I begin to piece my imagination together for the design. I love using different textures to create something rich, so I draw inspiration from pretty much anything. And Don’t get me wrong, I don’t sit and stare at it for days, [laughs] I’m a wife and I’ve got three kids
to look after! TS: Running your own business is tough especially as a parent, can you tell us about your journey and challenges so far? Being a wife to a very hardworking hubby [laughs] and a mum to three adorable boys is my biggest joy after God and it is my number one job!! Running a business while managing my family is very challenging so it really boils down to time management and being able to prioritize. What I’ve learnt is how much time we waste which could have been put to good use. What I do is very important to me and so I create time for it usually after the kids have gone to bed and I’ve had some time with hubby if he’s off work. I tend to work mostly at night because that is when I’m least disturbed. I hardly watch TV except for the news but I record my fav shows like Scandal and watch them later at my convenience. TS: Do you have any lazy days? How do you spend them? Lazy days? What are those? [Laughs] With three little kids, I wish!!! My last lazy days were just after I had my last child, when there was nothing I could do but stay in bed and be taken care of!! TS: What is one thing you can never compromise on? I would never compromise on quality. TS: Tell us something that people will be surprised to know about you. I’m actually a pretty good singer. And I love Gospel Music TS: What advice would you give your 18-year-old self? Start early. Give yourself no excuses. Learn the rules of the game, acquire skills, ask questions and start from somewhere. Don’t wait till everything is perfect because that will never happen. Know that there is always another way out of any situation. Don’t be afraid of anybody, anything or situation. Fear only cripples. Believe in yourself. Trust God and you’ll be just fine. TS: Thanks Chimele, we wish all the best. Thank you!
I define style as an expression of one’s self or perception of self. Style reflects who you are or who you aspire to be. - Chiemelie
Model is wearing Chiemelie’s Half Rosy Cape Jumpsuit $130 Available online www.tribalot.com/shop/chiemelie www.tribalotStyle.com | www.tribalot.com
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Rosy Cape Jumpsuit $190
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Half Cape Hazel Queen Dress $110
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Melie Long Red Lace Dress $190.00
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Hazel Queen Dress $105.00
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Blingshiki Dashiki + bling = Blingshiki
the simple yet elegant creation from Tolulope Adebukola.
he Classic Blingshiki Collection is sewn with a very rich cotton fabric with high quality rhinestone carefully placed on the fabric using sophisticated technics and machines to give each blingshiki ensemble its unique and classic look. The great thing about Blingshiki Collections is that it can be styled with versatility and comfort in mind. The designs on her rhinestone ‘aso-oke’ (a fabric indigenous to the Yoruba tribe in western Nigeria) is very detailed, and the sewing is to perfection. She started out as a self-taught graphics designer with a kin instinct on designs that would get her clients the ‘wow-factor’ needed for their businesses to stand out. This same instinct for designs would later grow into a clothing line like never seen before in West Africa. As the Business grew and she got more equipment to make her a graphic designer and textile designer to be reckoned with. People would contact her to add rhinestones on t-shirts for their special events and the inspiration hit her to use rhinestones on the classic dashiki’s and native fabrics she had access to. It was an instant hit! Everyone wanted to own something so simple and unique, it was the perfect remix of the old and new. With the level of success Blingshiki acquired in such a short time in Lagos, Nigeria, Tolulope knew it was time to take this one step further. She started posting her designs on social media and the world loved what it saw. “We put it out on Instagram. I’ll tell you honestly, within a week, we sold over 100. Most of the sales were from Nigerians in the Diaspora while the others from people within Nigeria. We displayed this at a recent expo, and we sold out. Several people even offered to leave their measurement and contact info with us to deliver to them later on. As we speak, we make Blingshiki daily. It’s quite unbelievable. This shows that Nigerians pay for quality.” When asked of the challenges, she narrated, “Consistency – you will see customers today, you won’t see them tomorrow. Competition is fierce in Nigeria. A lot of people, instead of create their own niche, copy. When they eventually do, they rubbish it. There were times I got frustrated and even cried.” Now, the industrious lady says she is trying to ensure that her businesses are available. She is currently creating more products that will make her country more business innovative in the world.
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Model is wearing Blingshiki Chic $80 Available online www.tribalot.com/shop/blingshiki
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Blingshiki - Chic Crystals $80.00
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Blingshiki - Classic with green crystals $75
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Blingshiki - Classic with gold crystals $75
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Blingshiki - Classic with white crystals $190
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SOSOME
Pronounced So So Me, Sosome is an independent fashion label, inspired by African Akara print. Designed for women who love sophisticated contemporary silhouette with a timesless appeal.
TS: What does fashion mean to you? Answer: fashion to me means escapism…. it’s a chance to be larger than life.
after emails or researching and shopping for ideas. That’s the excitement of being a designer. It’s exciting and very demanding.
TS: How did you come up with the name Sosome? Answer: I wanted it to resonate with everyone that comes across my design as something that just speaks to them as an item that they have always wanted. Something that was designed specific for them. Something that is “so so me”
TS: What inspires your creative process? Answer: I like to think about the customer and things they would feel comfortable in one of my pieces and the process can be triggered off by an image or pattern I see. I am often inspired by everything that is around me.
TS: If you were to start your business all TS: As a little girl, did you always think over again, what would you do differyou would be a fashion designer? ently? Answer: I was always quit creative and it was actually my dad’s idea to enroll me in after school class to learn pattern cutting after he watched me endlessly re-style my dolls, the rest history after my first class. I remember the first item I made was a skirt with drainpipes. Everybody else in the class kept it quite simple and even then I wanted to make a fashion statement. Answer: Hmm, I would possible delegate more just so I wouldn’t feel like I had to do TS: Why was it very important to you to everything. branch out on your own after 12 years of designing and working for high street 8 What would you say are your proudest retailers in the United States and United moment so far in your career? Kingdom? Answer: persevering and believing in my Answer: I wanted to grow and it felt like abilities and taking the leap of faith to the right time to do it. I felt like had learnt make SosoMe happen. Just learning and a lot from both London and New York and trusting in my own decisions even when it was time to use that knowledge to grow things don’t go as planned, but still gaining and express who I was as a designer. valuable lessons from the process.
18 Questions With UK Designer
Sosome
TS: Could you describe a typical day in your life as a designer? Answer: There is no such thing as a typical day. Sometimes, I’m half way across the world developing new samples or I can be on the phone all day answering emails
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TS: What hurdles have you had to overcome with starting your business? Answer: finding reliable and quality people to work with is a constant challenge and through it all I never compromise on quality.
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TS: What advice would you give any aspiring designers out there? Answer: first believe in yourself and gain as much knowledge as you can even in areas you don’t think are related to you because you will surprise yourself on how useful those life lessons can be in the future. TS: Fashion and celebrity seems to go hand in hand, if you could dress a celebrity, dead or alive, who would it be? Answer: from Grace Jones, Tina Turner, Rita Ora TS: I know you love your designs, but where is your favorite store to go shopping Answer: Zara TS: When was the last time you were nervous. Answer: I’m always nervous especially in group setting or if I have to walk into a crowded room on my own or worse when I’m expected to make a speech. TS: Last time I sang out loud … Answer: yesterday morning TS: Last thing I indulged in … Answer: Chicken wings and chips TS: Last vacation I had … Answer: Aruba TS: Last compliment I received … Answer: I like your hair TS: Last thing I misplaced … Answer: Keys
Models are wearing Sosome’s Sassa mix print shorts $60 and mixed print Ankara dress $78 www.tribalot.com/shop/sosome www.tribalotStyle.com | www.tribalot.com
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Sosome Mixed print Ankara dress $78
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Sosome Mia ankara cropped top $47
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Sosome Ankara Mix Pants $74
Sosome Ankara cotton dress $117
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attolle C lothiers
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L-R Bukola is wearing Fresa 2 Piece $269. Models are wearing, Amber Dress $170, Joyful Dress $189, Deborah Dress $129, Bubble Skirt $129, and Carrisa Blouse $149
L awyer T o R un way
Bukola Itoandon called Bookey by friends and family, the creative mind behind Attolle Clothiers pronounced (A-TTOO-OLE) has accomplished something a lot of ready-to-wear designers with a specific niche rarely accomplish; a thriving career of over 14 years spanning at least two continents. Her designs are modern and sophisticated. Attolle has been featured in multiple fashion shows, including New York fashion week. it’s almost unfathomable to believe she is a lawyer. We had a chat with the woman behind the ready to wear clothing line who traded a career path in law for the creative world of fashion.
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Bookey
TS: Hi Bookey, thank you so much for chatting with us. We know as a Nigerian, fashion design isn’t something parents gladly encourage in children. Inquiring minds want to know, when did you realize your affinity with fashion? Bookey: As a child my mum and aunts called me “Bukola oni Fa ri” meaning the stylish girl.
TS: What is the story behind the name? Bookey: The name Attolle is a traditional name originating from my home town of Kwara state Nigeria, West Africa. It was given to me by my Grandparents, “We Fill it to Overflow. TS: When was the ‘ahh-hha’ moment you decided to become a designer? Bookey: I decided to go into making my own clothes when I was in college. Based on 2 major factors; 1) I was raised to dress modest and, most of the stylish items at the stores were not at all modest in my opinion. 2) I grew up at the Mainland Part of Lagos State, Tejuosho market [a popular open market place in Lagos] wasn’t so far from my home, my thinking was the only way to wear what I liked was to make it myself. And the moment I started, I would get lots of comment and compliments from my colleagues but most of them didn’t know I made them [laughs]. TS: Looking at where you are now, we are curious how you got started professionally as a clothing line? Bookey: Attolle started with it being mostly about me; what I like to wear and how I want to look. The more compliments I got, the more I got the inclination to make this for others. When people start asking me if I can make what I had on for them, then I believe this must be the next chapter for me. TS: What a story! Necessity really is the mother of inventions. Because of how you started, would you describe Attolle Clothiers as ready to wear or bespoke? Bookey: Attolle’ Clothiers is more of a Custom wear. We make Samples and post the pictures online for prospective customers to order. We give our customers a chance to add or remove anything they may want differently on the item example our skirts are of a modest length-29”, however, this 29inches was determined based on an average height of a lady 5.7foot tall, so for some of our customers who aren’t as tall as our presumed average height, this gives them room to ask for a shorter length and for our taller customers a chance to as for a longer length. I take my vision of making every woman look and feel elegant very seriously. TS: With such an extensive career, how do you stand out from everyone else? Bookey: We all have different things in life that propels us further and that “Thing” should be our main focus. For me its
Decency. I believe no matter what is going on in the fashion world, nothing beats Modest. I am so focused on that. When a lady is decently and modestly dressed, she commands another level of respect and stands out in the crowd. You walk tall and confidently into any room. TS: Who or what influences you the most? Bookey: My first motivation in life was my Mum, she loves and dresses well and encourages me a lot. As I grow older, the word of God motivates me a lot. He tells me there is nothing I
cannot do, for I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength….so its all up to me. Lately, I love and respect Michelle Obama, the First lady of United States of America. Her life story, her fashion sense and every time she opens her mouth, she speaks wisdom!
TS: What do you want your customers to get out of the Attolle experience? Bookey: I want everyone to know that life is for the living and fashion is always evolving. “Fashion is an Art, you express who you are through what you’re wearing”-Daniel Donato
TS: Let’s pretend I am a young aspiring designer; what advice would you give me starting out? Bookey: Believe in God, believe in your dreams. Be passionate about it, be committed to it at all times It is definitely tough, but those dreams should be your driving force.
TS: Who would be your dream client? Bookey: My Dream Client… FLOTUS (Michelle Obama).
L-R Joyful Dress $189, Deborah Dress $129, Amber Dress $170, Bubble Skirt $129, Carrisa Blouse $149 www.tribalot.com/shop/attolleclothiers
3reeC’s Chic Creations & Collections Photographed By: Fotos By Ben
L-R The Kris Bow Dress $119.99, The Rina Skirt $89.99, The Eva Midi Dress $119.99, The Sisi Crop Top with yoga pants $120, The LC Dress $119.99 www.tribalot.com/shop/3reecs
THE
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WOMAN multiple HATS
There isn’t a shortage of creative outlets for Chigozie Ohanele; she is a nurse Practitioner from 9-5 and a business owner, blogger, stylist, designer and travel aficionado 24hrs a day. It’s been a whirlwind year for her and her brand; moving states, rebranding 3rcees, launching chigi’s world, participating in business and nonprofit engagement both locally and globally. 3rcees caught our attention for its use of bold prints and colors with just a sprinkle of retro chic to give that extra design element. What started as a jewelry line with very rare and unique hand crafted pieces, evolved to an African Inspired Women’s Fashion line in 2015.
TS: Who is the woman behind 3reeC’s? My name is Chigozie Nneka Ohanele. I’m a Nurse Practitioner, co-founder of Bosses in Heels, LLC., content creator/editor of Chigi’s World and of course designer and owner of 3reeC’s Chic Creations and Collections, LLC. TS: What was the inspiration for (the name) 3reecs? The name 3reeCs means Chic Creations and Collections. I took time to figure out a name that would be perfect for my brand. I have 2 sisters and we all have different styles. The inspiration for the name came from my 3 sisters, 3 different styles - Chic, Crazy, Cool and the need to create a brand that makes women feel and look Bold and Fabulous. TS: If you could, describe 3reecs to someone who hasn’t seen or heard about you before what would you say? 3reecs is a Retro Chic clothing line for women. It has unique and sophisticated fashion that transcends time and culture. I’m a 30year old Nigerian American professional woman and 3reeCs incorporates my African/Nigerian heritage with my love for vintage, classic fashion, but for the modern working woman like me. 3reeCs is also that brand that inspires women to be bold and fabulous with the bold and colorful prints infused into classy silhouettes for women of all shapes and sizes. I like to make women look and feel beautiful and confident.
Creations
The Jagger Top $59.99 & Hippie Pants $79.99 The Donyale dress $109.99
COLLECTIONS
Tyler Top $69.99 & Hippie Pants $79.99 The Chigi Corset Crop Top $49.99 & Chigi Pencil Skirt $79.99
The Eva Midi Dress $119.99
The Rina Skirt $89.99
The Gia Midi Dress $119.99
The Sisi Crop Top $49.99
TS: When did your love for fashion start? Wow, since I can remember [laughs] From playing dress up, styling and sewing clothes for my dolls as a child to styling people and expressing myself through what I wear. I’ve always had an eye and passion for fashion which is why I started my own clothing line and Fashion Blog Chigi’s World. Fashion is a means of expressing myself, it is creativity and being creative is like oxygen for me, music to my soul. TS: Was there a light-bulb moment when you decided to become a designer? For as long as I could remember, I always wanted to have my own fashion/ clothing store. I loved other people’s work and clothing lines, but I soon realized that what I enjoyed even more was designing and creating my own style, clothes and accessories from things that inspired me. I kept on telling myself that in the future, when the time was right, “when I grow up” I’ll have my own store. One fine morning, while waiting to start my new job as a Nurse Practitioner, I woke up and I clearly heard a voice in my heart say “Stop procrastinating, Why Not Start Now” and that’s exactly what I did. When I got up, I bought a few supplies and started making some jewelry and sketching a few ideas I had. That was the beginning. The Kate
TS: What would be your dream for 3reeC’s? My dream is to have a successful brand with multiple stores in major cities. I want it to be a recognized African inspired brand in the world of women’s fashion and home goods. I want the women who wear my clothes and people who shop my brand to feel and share my vision. I also envision 3reecs collaborating with nonprofit organizations to merge fashion and philanthropy to empower women to achieve economic independence starting with building up their confidence in how they look and feel and translating that confidence to their career and providing a network of support to attain success. TS: Let’s pretend I am a young aspiring designer; what advice would you give me starting out? Dream big and never be afraid to follow your passion. Study to equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to succeed and find a mentor minimize the risks/mistakes you make. Invest in yourself and Market, Market, Market. TS: Can you tell us what’s next for 3reecs? We are working on our Bold and Fabulous campaign and creating strategies to build our brand. We’re showcasing in the African Festival “AFRIFEST” and African Fashion Week Houston where we’ll be debuting our Fall/Winter and our Spring/Summer 2017 Collection. Soon we’ll launch our Concierge services for our VIP clients and our African Print Home Goods section, so stay tuned.
Jacket Dress
TS: What was it like when $149.99 tribalot.com/shop/3reecs you first started 3reecs? [Laughs] I’m still in the starting phase really. I started selling jewelry initially on Etsy, then I later added clothes but I recently decided to change my brand from a hobby to a business and find my niche in the Fashion World. TS: Is there anything about your journey thus far you would change? Hmm… not sure. I’d probably start this journey earlier, find a mentor, market myself more and maybe I would have gotten a degree in Fashion. Then again, I believe that everything happens for a reason and everyone’s journey is different.
TS: What do you want your customers to get out of the 3reecs experience? Fashion for the everyday working woman Fashion transcending culture and time Unique items, Fabulous Fashion, Great Quality, Impeccable customer service
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TAMRIS Photographed by: Fotos By Ben
fashion d uo Two sisters - Two cities - One clothing line.
Tribalot Style had a chat with fashion designer duo Iswat and Tamura of Tamris; the fashion line using African print and modern structuring for one of a kind pieces that look amazing on and off the runway. Fashion has always been first and center in their creative minds even if their educational background didn’t reflect it. To create a clothing line that was to be aesthetically pleasing and long standing as a business, the sisters focused on degrees heavy on finance and sciences. Iswat holds a Bachelors in Economics and a Masters in Finance and investments, while Tamura holds a bachelor in Computer science and Mathematics. Tamris started in Lagos Nigeria and after succeeding in Lagos, the fashion capital of Nigeria, they moved to Houston Texas to make the magic happen one more time.
L-R Jina Dress $80, Zan Lace top $50 with Lani Palazo Pants $80, Nefatiti Dress $160, Zahra Dress $120, Ceela Bedazzled Top $80 with Neema Pleated Skirt $60 www.tribalot.com/shop/tamris
TAMRIS
TS: How did Tamris start? Iswat: TAMRIS is the realization of an idea many years in the making that only recently came to light. Being creative lovers of fashion, we decided to join the rapidly exploding industry to promote African fashion.
TS: Have you always been obsessed with fashion? Tamura: Yes. I say this for three reasons: 1) I’ve always loved watching fashion shows and TV channels that are fashion oriented 2) I’m always responsible for clothing during events with family, work and friends’. I even specified my preference with school uniform designs when I was in boarding school[laughs]. 3) I am the go-to person for my friends when it comes to styling. I dress them up and they look beautiful and feel very happy within. It’s one of the couple things that keep me up a night. Family is another of course [laughs].
Iswat: I have always been amazed by the art behind fashion. Bringing to life some design concepts, creating clothes with a zillion fabric options, and finally seeing the internal and external transformation on my clients makes me happy. As far back as I remember, I have always been responsible for deciding and gathering clothing options for my parents and siblings whenever there was an event. I live, breathe and dream it. TS: When was the magical moment you both decided to become designers? Tamura: My partner has been a designer at heart since a very young age. She has always been very artsy. She had written that she wanted to be something along those lines in her secondary school’s year book, and I remember my dad was utterly disapproving of such. For her, designing has been an innate desire since the age of 12 when she started the habit of keeping a sketch
L-R Rae Top $50 with Aiko Skirt $50, Aiko Tube/Pleat Top $60 with Lulu Accent Skirt $80 Tesha Wrap Dress $120, Tai Dress $90, Carly Fur Dress $80, Dani Top $45 with Bao Pants $80
book that consistently fed her fashion culture. She would throw together some of mom’s old fashion pieces to create eclectic looks to parties and school events. For me, I’ve always loved what I saw and was very good at making people look good. Our combination made for a complete package. A force to reckon with. The ideal opportunity for a start-up came early 2013 and it’s been most rewarding since. TS: What was the inspiration for Tamris? Iswat: Tamris was inspired by the uniqueness of the delicate female body types, the transformational values of clothing and a need to bridge the gap between contemporary fashion, African fashion and the essence of expressing oneself through fashion.
changed our business model, resources, and more a couple of times. But that was based on experience and changing tides. We are receptive to change and are proactively observing our environment and making needed changes. As such, we have no regrets. It’s been a journey filled with ups and downs, but as we all know, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Iswat: Absolutely none! Loving all that it brings to the table, the experiences - I savor; the challenges - I learn and grow by them, and exposure & feedback - I live by! TS: What would be your dream celebrity client? Iswat: Everyone is a celebrity in their own right. What appeals to us the most is putting a smile on people’s faces. For instance, due to the ills of our society, people are insecure about their their gender, religion, color and more. It gives a lot of pleasure and fulfilment serving the ‘ordinary’ person and making her feel ‘extraordinary’. Our strategy is to serve the masses rather than celebrities, but we love Solange Knowles and Lupita Uyongo – their fashion sense is fabulous, and they are true examples of beautiful women that are comfortable in their skins.
TS: Is Tamris a bespoke clothing line or a ready to wear line? Tamura: Tamris is a Readyto-wear line in the international community with availability of exclusive bespoke services in our flagship store located in Lagos Nigeria. TS: What was it like when you first started? Iswat: It was like birthing a baby but with different pain points and intricacies. It was our big project that had to be nurtured and carefully attended to. I must say that it was and is a lot of work and resources. The people aspect, monetary aspect, Florence client management aspect Jumpsuit – everything needed to be $110 tribalot.com/shop/Tamris tended to. It’s not as easy as most people may think, but even with the craziness that comes with it, we are still standing solid after over 3 years and we are sure aiming for the home run, we have indeed surmounted all our issues and the only direction we see is a forward direction. It’s been a very rewarding experience thus far. It’s a continuous learning process through the design phases, administration, sales and ultimately to customer satisfaction. TS: Is there anything about your journey so far you would change? Tamura: The only constant thing in life is change. We have
Tamura: Kerry Washington, Charlize Theron, Rihanna and Solange Knowles [laughs] TS: Let’s pretend I am a young aspiring designer; what advice would you give me starting out? Iswat: Gather experience and exposure from the people that have successfully done it for long, stay humble, resilient, and true to yourself, continuously develop yourself. Stay with your dreams and maintain utmost focus and dedication. Incorporate good fun and laughter too as the best designs are created in those moments. TS: Can you tell us what’s next for Tamris? Tamura: Tamris has a lot of long term goals. Our immediate focus is in building the brand to a household name.
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Tamris - Ayana Jacket $70 with Jojo Pants $80
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Tamris - Lerato Top $60 with Bao pants $80
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Tamris - Kamaria Kaftan $120
Tamris - Oma Top $50 with Bao Pants $80
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Tribe
of
Dumo
Photographed By: Fotos By Ben
Tribe of Dumo, previously known as Afro Kouture was launched in Houston, Texas in 2015 as an African Inspired Accessory line. In August of 2016, the Fashion House rebranded itself and was renamed the Tribe of Dumo. “Tribe of Dumo” coined from the designers West African last name “Odumodu” which literally translates to mean “LION” and symbolically means “STRENGTH”. This name originated from the Ibo tribe in Nigeria. The Ibos have been known for their industrialism, artistic qualities, drive for educational improvement and business development and both designers Ijeoma Odumodu and Chioma Osibodu, who are also sisters belong to this tribe.
L-R: Models are wearing Ayana $130, Jalika Jumpsuit $130, Ayan skirt $120, Adaju dress $350. Ijeama is wearing the Slay Dress. tribalot.com/shop/tribeofdumo
Tribe
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Lion
These designers always speak with pride that their choice of textiles and bold prints come from the love of their tribe and nation, and these beautiful prints have been the predominant choice among many African Designers around the world. Their mission is to bring this love of African Fashion to the world stage and intertwine these textiles with everyday western styles making every man, woman and child feel like part of a Fashion Tribe, “Tribe of Dumo�, where Culture meets Couture. I was very intrigued by this tribe that I met up with these talented women in their studio here in Houston to get to know more about them. Despite being partners on this journey, I soon realized that each woman had their own unique style and take on life.
L-R: Chioma is wearing the Slay Combo Dress. Models are wearing Jaleela Top $100 and ohari Skirt $80, Jibola shift Dress $110, Janeeta Dress (peplum sleeve) $130, Juji Crop Top $50 and jumoke Pants $ 95. tribalot.com/shop/tribeofdumo
Dumo TS: How did you know what to do with your life? Ijeoma – It came naturally to me. I always had a flare for fashion and I enjoyed dressing up people and making them look good. I initially started styling people with other people’s designs but later I wanted to use my own designs and creations. Chioma - I still don’t know what to do with my life, it feels like trial and error. I know I have to do something though, so for now I’m doing anything and everything I want to do. TS: Give me 3 words to describe your brand and individual style? Tribe of Dumo – Afrocentric, Modern, Street Fashion. Ijeoma - Urban, Street style, Artsy, Punk. Chioma - Ethnocentric, Daring, Unique. TS: What is your favorite thing or accessory to wear? Ijeoma - Boyfriend Blazer, A line or shift dress and Rings. Chioma - Maxi skirt, Lapel pins. TS: What is your favorite fashion trend of all time? Ijeoma - Glam Punk style (bright colors, leathers and prints). Chioma - Vintage style (Florals, mixed prints on prints). TS: Who is your favorite fashion icon? Ijeoma -Iris Apfel Chioma – Jessica on the show “Suits”.
TS: Who’s your favorite designer? Ijeoma - Delpozo and Moschino. Chioma – Moschino.
TS: What did you want to be at 5 years old? Ijeoma - I really don’t remember wanting to be anything at 5. I first knew I wanted to be a lawyer and fashion designer at 13. I studied Psychology in college and one day I’ll either be working with a nonprofit organization or I’ll go back to school to be an Occupational Therapist or Counselor after I graduate from the Art School and my business is stable. Chioma – I always wanted to be a Medical Doctor, but now I’m the first best thing, I’m a Nurse Practitioner. I also dreamt to be an Entrepreneur. I love Fashion, Arts, Craft, I just want to create. TS: Where will you like to be 1year and 10years from now? Ijeoma – In 1 year I’ll be rounding up with school, working on my senior collection and portfolio to showcase for graduation and in 5 years our collection will be in little boutiques around Houston and we’ll be opening up our own store. I want to launch my personal high end brand called “Ijeoma Odumodu” to compete on the same level with the current Fashion Power Houses. I want to be the most recognized African inspired high end brand. Also I want to be married, with 3 kids, living in the city and running a successful business. Chioma – Still married to my handsome hubby. As an entrepreneur,
I want to be running a company with a few employees, be more autonomous and have more free time to travel. Meanwhile, I’d like to move up the cooperate ladder as a Nurse Practitioner. TS: What is currently keeping you excited? Ijeoma - The opportunities I’m getting, the doors that are opening to help me build and expand right now. Chioma - My dreams that are coming to fruition and building on those goals. TS: What’s the first thing you do when you have an idea? Ijeoma – I quickly write or sketch it on anything, even a tissue paper. Chioma – I call somebody. TS: Who are your mentors, who inspires you? Ijeoma – My mom, my sister/partner Chioma and Ms. Maria Sava my Fashion Design instructor. Chioma - Oprah, my mom, Alero Waterhouse a Nurse Practitioner. TS: Who makes you laugh? Ijeoma - Hmmm…interesting. Goofy people. Chioma - My brother. He’s the most ridiculous human being on earth.
T WO SI ST E R s T WO L I O N E SS E S one tribe T R I BE O F D U MO
TS: What 3 things do you need for success? Ijeoma - Discipline, Determination, Prayers. Chioma - Consistency, Passion, Planning. TS: What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned within the last year? Ijeoma – Laser focus. How to focus on one thing and not be all over the place. Chioma - You can’t succeed alone. You have to have a band wagon, your cheerleaders, your tribe. People of like minds and like spirit. TS: What’s your favorite quote? Ijeoma - “Love is not love which alters when it’s alteration find” - William Shakespeare Sonnet 116. “Blessed are the heart that can bend, but they shall never be broken” - Albert Camus. Chioma - “Education is a necessary evil” I don’t know who wrote it, but I know I heard it 10 thousand times from my mother, growing up [laughs]. TS: What advice will you give your younger self? Ijeoma - Time isn’t a luxury you have. Don’t waste and splurge your money. Get it done once and for all and you never have to repeat it. Chioma - Whatever you want to do, do it now and don’t wait for later. We may be in control of a lot, but we’re not in control of time. TS: What is coming up for Tribe of Dumo? We are releasing 2 collections this year – The Spring/Summer Jigsaw Collection which is like a puzzle, debuting at AFRIFEST and out Autumn/Winter Collection showcasing on African Fashion Week Houston this October. www.tribalotStyle.com | www.tribalot.com
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30 03 TribalotStyle
MOTIVATION
THINGS TO DO BEFORE
By : C h i g o z i e O h a n e l e
ts undeniable that turning the big 3-0 is a major milestone. To some people, it feels like the best years are behind them and only the mundane grayness of responsibility lies ahead of them. To others, 30 is a new chapter; a chance to do more fun activities because they have a little more disposable income than they did in their twenties. As a new entrant into the 30 club, I consider myself a member of the latter group. For me there was a new found freedom and confidence that came with turning 30 which I didn’t experience in my 20’s. I felt bold and fearless, so much so a few of my friends noticed the difference in me which got me thinking about why some people dread 30 and others embrace it so I did what any Type-A personality would do, I made a list of 30 things to do before turning 30.
TribalotStyle MOTIVATION
30 THINGS TO DO BEFORE 30
30. Make a huge physical change: Think about something you’ve always wanted to change but aren’t quite ready for yet like a piercing, big haircut, color or style change, and just do it. You should occasionally break away from routine and just be spontaneous, it makes life fun. 29. Host an event, even if it’s a dinner at your place: who doesn’t like a good party? Hosting an event is one surefire way of keeping your social life active. With the ever piling demands for our time and social media making us feel we are more connected than we really are, a face-to-face hangout session with your buds is just what your social calendar needs. Extra brownie points when they show up on time. 28. Go on vacation with a significant other: In your twenties you are growing and maturing and if time isn’t invested in your relationship, there is a chance of growing apart and not as a unit. This isn’t a family vacation or a trip over the holidays to visit friends or family, this is a vacation for just you and bae to have fun and spend quality time with each other, agreed and paid for by you two, and you two alone. 27. Make new friends that are different from you and have different backgrounds: You learn so much from these relationships, it builds character and tolerance and makes you a better person. Expand your horizon by expanding your social circle. 26. Be vulnerable: Now this one is difficult but necessary. Once we turned 18 we assimilated the mindset of being adults meant being emotional islands, but the whole human experience is wrapped up in emotions. Tell someone you love them without knowing for sure whether they love you back and learn to open up more with family/friends so they can really see your soul. Authenticity and vulnerability is beautiful and refreshing and you’ll be amazed at the love and respect you get back. 25. Evaluate your relationships: You should let go of toxic relationships because they can ruin your confidence and drive you insane. They bring out the worst in you and make you unhappy most times, so why keep ingesting poison? Meanwhile, connect with an old friend that you’ve always regretted losing touch with. Being the first one to reach out, to tell them you miss them, to make an attempt to see them again is a great step.
Allow yourself to Fall in love: Yes! I said it and I don’t mean the love that is calculating, logical and safe, but the all-consuming love that is intense, crazy, irrational love that some say is blind . . .
24. Go through a painful breakup: This might be the most unpopular item on the list but breakups can teach a lot about ourselves than we realize. This usually creates a feeling of brokenness and defeat and it may seem like the end of the world, but with time and healing you realize that you are much stronger than you realize and that everything is going to be ok. 23. Allow yourself to Fall in love: Yes! I said it and I don’t mean the love that is calculating, logical and safe, but the all-consuming love that is intense, crazy, irrational love that some say is blind, but it’s actually true love because you see the other person’s faults and all, but still choose to love them. That’s the love I’m talking about, the one that Beyoncé sang about in Drunk in Love. 22. Give! Give!! Give!!!: You should learn to give of your time, your energy and/or money to people less privileged and to support a cause you’re passionate about. I always say, nothing is too little to give because if everyone gave a little of themselves, then everyone will have enough and sometimes the little you give is what makes a gigantic difference in someone’s life. 21. Join a focus group: Find a mentor and be a mentor: Invest in your career and passion by getting connected to people that will enrich you. There is a lot of truth in the statements that saying ‘Iron happens iron’. You want to find or start a focus group for people with similar goals and drive to get the level of support you need for your professional life. Learn from people you consider forerunners in your field of interest as well as your peers. You are only as successful as your network find people to help you stay focused and grow together. 20. Invest in yourself and in your future: There comes a point in time where you need to believe in yourself and ideas enough to put your money were your mouth is in relation to yourself. This comes with a certain dimension of maturity when you stop waiting for someone to invest in you, but you put in your own hard earned money into investing in your future like starting a business, and investing in self-development. Believe in yourself enough to risk your money on yourself. 19. Start saving for retirement: It can be as simply as saving a certain percentage of your paycheck routinely or starting a 401k or IRA. The earlier you start thinking of your golden years the higher your chances of having a bigger nest egg to fall back on after retirement. 18. Decide to acquire more knowledge: This could be you finally deciding to go to college (or back to college) or taking a course to get a certification or learn a skill. The point is you have to have the hunger of acquiring more skills to make you more marketable in an ever changing world. 17. Make decisions yourself: Remember when we were teenagers and we needed to get everyone on board with an idea before we do it? Yeah, that needs to go
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by 30. Yes, you can definitely seek the advice of family, friends, colleagues or mentors, but at the end of the day, you have to evaluate your situation and make your own decision for yourself and not to please someone else because every day you have to live with your choices.
7. Pick up a hobby: Find something you’re passionate about and be consistent. It’s usually great to pick an activity that utilizes your talent and/or helps you connect with yourself and mentally destress like walking, meditating etc. I decided to start playing tennis again.
16. Quit your job if you absolutely loath it: This may be very difficult to do especially if you make good money. Nonetheless, if you don’t like the job, especially if they don’t appreciate or treat you with respect, and you’re unhappy, then quit. Money can’t buy you happiness.
6. Read a book quarterly: You can learn a lot by just reading; books, magazines, journals, blogs etc. Reading expands your vocabulary whether it’s fiction or nonfiction. Also reading is like a time portal, it’s the fastest way to go on a journey and on that path, you might just find that book that totally changes your life.
15. Learn to be assertive (not an asshole): Be Bold, ask for what you want out of life. Ask for a raise at work when you deserve it or asking people to treat you a certain way. Know what you want, and don’t apologize for it. 14. Evaluate your life and figure out your goals: Your 20s is a time to try new things, make some mistakes, learn a lot and re-evaluate where your life is headed to make sure it’s in line with your goals. Analyze your career, finances, your health, your relationships, your character and your choices. If you don’t like something, think of a solution and change it before you turn into a grumpy, bitter 30 something year old. 13. Get your own health insurance: Even better, make your medical appointments and go to those appointments without your mum. 12. Pay your own bills: I don’t mean one or some, but ALL your bills from your cell phone to cable bills, internet bills or anything else you own or use, because you’re old enough to take care of yourself. Double brownie points if you pay all your bills on time. 11. Take charge of your credit score: at some point before 30 you need to at least know what your credit score is and what you need to do to get it higher. A lot of things are determined by your credit score, it shows your financial track record to banks, lenders, apartments, credit card companies and even some jobs. At some point, being able to purchase a house or car or even lease an apartment without a cosigner should be your norm. 10. Treat yourself: This isn’t you wasting money, this is you having certain luxuries that you like to spend your hard-earned money on once in a while, like getting a massage, taking yourself to a really fancy restaurant or going on a trip at least annually. Whatever it is, enjoy it because you deserve it. 9. Own something classic: Fads come and go but the classy classic things last a lifetime. It could be a décor piece, furniture, clothes, shoes, jewelry. Bear in mind, classic isn’t always cheap, but it definitely an investment. 8. Get your own place: It doesn’t matter if you’re buying or renting, just have a place that’s completely yours because you paid for it without any roommates, parents, siblings or spouses, just you. This is a different level of independence and it’s a great investment in your future. Please stop waiting for a spouse/significant other to come and whisk you away, you can do bad all by yourself.
5. Travel to a new city, new state or even better, to a new country…ALONE: Being in a new place is educational but exploring alone is even exhilarating. Experiencing new things and a new culture expands your perspective on life and traveling alone actually opens you up more to meeting and connecting with people. 4. Face your fear: This can be the usual zip lining, skydiving, scuba diving, rock climbing or something else like speaking at a conference, performing in a comedy club etc. If it truly terrifies you, then challenge yourself and try it because you can never overcome your fear if you never tackle it head on. 3. Get out of your comfort zone: It can be as subtle as going somewhere new, changing up your daily routine or significant like taking on a new project, a new responsibility at work or changing jobs. 2. Be single for at least 6 months: This isn’t saying to run off and breakup with you partner if the relationship is healthy and makes you happy, but my point is, give yourself significant time to be alone (if it’s reasonable for you). Being single gives you more time to focus on yourself so you can actually get to know you. I promise you, if you actually take out time and do this, it will be one of the best things you’ve ever done. This is a time for growth and self-discovery, enjoy being single. 1. Find and embrace your weakness and imperfections: The truth is, some of the things you consider ‘wrong’ about you add to your charm and uniqueness. However, you still need to look critically at your weaknesses and bad habits and strive to be better and even turn it into a strength. Most importantly, learn to see the beauty in your imperfections and extend grace to yourself as you strive to evolve. Acceptance of who you are today actually makes you more confident about the version of yourself you are building for tomorrow. Turning 30 can be plagued with expectations and assumptions but you are first responsible for yourself. Forget the expectations from society, your family, your peers, and heck yourself and just live! In fact, don’t just live, but live boldly and happily. You are not defined by a marriage license, a spouse or your children, you’re defined by the content of your character, how you treat people and make them feel. This list is a reminder that life is fun and amazing when you live in the moment, seize opportunities and live it to the fullest. There’s definitely a lot more to do which I haven’t added here, but that shouldn’t stop you. Recreate or change up this list, even better, just Live!!!
BOSSES IN HEELS
B usiness E xhibit N etwork
www.b oss e s i n h e e l s .com
"Our success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginning" - Bill Gates
TribalotStyle WOMEN IN BUSINESS
SEVEN THINGS YOU MUST STOP DOING IN BUSINESS ||
By Kristi L Jackson
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photographed by: Fotos By Ben
Kristi L. Jackson’s accolades run a mile long. She is a White house recognized entrepreneur, listed as Houston’s 40 under 40 young business professional, winner of the 2014 women in business award, international speaker, author and founder of the business consultancy Women CEO Project. Her consulting business grew from her desire to learn new and tangible ways to see results in her business. On her journey to be a better business woman, she realized there were a lot of women just like her who wanted to become better in their business or lacked the courage to start their business so she started the Women CEO Project to fill that vacuum. Her methods have generated a lot of success over the years; from starting with zero member to 30member and now a global tour empower women to get up and get going on their business. It’s an honor to have her as a contributing writer for Tribalot Style.
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1. Not Charging Your Worth
Yep, this is number one, because it seems to be women’s number one problem. Are you giving your goodies for free or as close to free? Are you leaving lunch meetings wanting to kick your own butt knowing that you gave away a free consultation for a salad? Do not let your business suffer and allow customers and clients to get your hard work without paying a fair price. You have spent years honing your skills and talents; you have an expertise and people are willing to pay for it. Stop being nice and stop giving your knowledge away for peanuts! If it’s good enough to trade for, its good enough to pay for. State your price, then stop talking, and be prepared to walk away if they refuse to pay. Charge your worth NOW!
2. Not Dreaming Big Enough
Just trying to make it through the month? Start with the million-dollar goal then work your way backwards. It kills me when women dream small, and convenient they can fit neatly into a credit card purchased purse. Screw that! What’s the biggest, most inconceivable, inconvenient dream that you have for your life? Yep, that one. Once you’ve figured that out, be bold enough to write it down, tell the right people, make a list of how to get it done, not a list of the obstacles. Then let’s make that dream happen. Dream big ladies! Remember, if your dreams don’t scare you, they’re definitely not big enough.
3. Not Using Technology To Leverage Yourself And Your Business
Why are you focusing on making one type of money, in a brick and mortar store, in the US, with one customer at a time, between the hours of 9-5? Why aren’t you using technology to your advantage? Can one of your products be selling while you are asleep? If the answer is ‘No’, then can you create one? Are you using the free technology available to you or are you spending money on products that you could be getting without spending a dime? Technology is a beautiful thing and can help you double, triple even quadruple your efforts – if you take time to look, put systems in place and stop thinking small. You can sell your products in your brick and mortar store, then sell them on your Facebook business page. Tweet coupons on tweeter. Post your product on Pinterest and Instagram with your website link attached. Write eBooks on your expertise giving advice with embedded links to sell your products and services. Post free videos on Vimeo and YouTube with the back link to your website and products…. I could go on and on but the long and short of it is technology is available, and tons of it is free. Use it NOW!
6. Not Making Connections or Asking for Mentors
Men have us here. Not my words, but statistically women don’t make the connections that we need as much as we should. We sometimes prefer to keep our heads down ‘doing the work’ instead of scheduling time to go out to network, have a beer (ok wine for us), play golf and ask for mentors. Women need to ask for help and mentors immediately, even before questions are answered. Before the business is begun, your dream team
needs to be in pace. Don’t worry if you don’t know what your question is. Make a list of what kinds of people you need/want to meet. Make plans to reach out to them using live events and social media. Go meet them and be genuine. Most people cannot refuse an honest, sincere request for help, but make sure that you don’t just come with your hands out. Make sure you offer something – to help them; offer to help with their next event, to volunteer for a day in their office, etc. Ask with confidence, expecting a ‘yes’. Remember, if you don’t ask, the answer is ALWAYS no.
4. Not Delegating / Trying to Do Everything Yourself
A wise woman once told me, “Kristi, if you act as though you are capable of everything, you will get stuck doing everything.” She was right. What she didn’t mention is that burnout is right around the corner. Make a list of everything you have to do this week – if it doesn’t make you money, it’s an administrative task and someone else should be getting paid $10 an hour to do it. There are so many ways to leverage yourself so that you can get out there and do what you are most valuable doing – selling yourself, your business, making connections and closing deals. Take the time to put systems in place, hire right and smart, get help where you need it, then let those people do their jobs. Now you get out there on the golf course and close million dollar deals.
5. Not Removing Negativity Out of Your Circle Quick Enough
Are you letting negative Nia stay in your clique because she’s family? Bullcrap! Take her out and anyone else that is not flowing positive, loving energy into your life. There is constructive criticism; that is needed and you should learn how to tell the difference between the two. Straight negative energy will kill your dreams and your spirit. You are the only one responsible for removing them from your life, your circle and your company. Get those negative people off your back and build your empire. Put your heels on, your favorite shade of lipstick, a dazzling smile and be confident, even if you have to be alone for a while.
7. Waiting Until You Are an ‘Expert’ To Begin
If I hear another woman say the reason she can’t do XYZ is because she isn’t expert enough… and I wonder to myself; what committee or board awards the coveted ‘expert’ status? When is the next meeting, because I know they must be looking for me [laughs]. Ladies, better yet, CEO’s, what are you waiting on? You know yourself, you have talent, you have POWER. You DO NOT need permission to claim yourself a professional, a consultant, a coach, a teacher, a healer, an expert, topnotch such and such. Just do it! Go out there, claim your stake, your status and don’t worry about the people with questions. Fake it until you make it. Have you been waiting on someone to tell you to go? Ok, GO! Now let’s get into business. If you will like more information on Kristi and dates for her global power tour check her out on www.womenceoproject.com
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www.FotosByBen.com
www.FotosByBen.com
Beauty
ART and the
SHE’s is back like she never left. We first got introduced to her and her sultry voice on Iyanya’s second official single “Ur waist”, her sound and confidence on screen definitely got mainstream media attention in the music industry. she is definitely not to be taken lightly as she has shown time and time again with 6 chart toping music videos on stations like MTV, Soundcity, Trace, Channel O, etc. This starlet has performed over 600 shows locally and internationally in sold out venues in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, United Kingdom, USA, Canada, UAE, Malaysia and so the list goes on and on. Considering Emma had spent her a majority of her life in the United States, its commendable how much she not only adopted to life in Nigeria but thrived to the level of success she has attained in such a short time. With her recent globetrotting, we were determined to catch up with one of the hardest working female entertainers from Nigeria to talk about what’s really been going on with the international artist. Emma Nyra opens up about being in the industry, her plans and some challenges she’s faced along the way. interviewed by Faozy Animu
photographed by Fotos By Ben
styled by Tribe of Dumo
Emma Nyra is wearing the Hawa Dress $350 from Tribe of Dumo
tribalot.com/shop/tribeofdumo
EMMA NYRA TS: We want to get to know you properly, what is your full name & where is it from? Emma Nyra: My full name is Emma Chukwugoziam Obi. I’m Igbo, I’m from Asaba, which is in Delta state, but I was born in Tyler, Texas and raised in Texas. I moved to Nigeria in 2012 to pursue my dream. TS: We all know you’re an artist but what are some hidden talents that you have? Emma Nyra: I was a medal gymnast from ages 8 – 10, I’ve gone to the junior Olympics for volleyball, I played with my sister. Actually, when I went to college, I was on a scholarship for volleyball. I graduated with a Health Administration degree from Texas Southern University in 2010. I’ve done a lot of entertainment work; I’ve hosted, I’ve done a radio show – online radio, I’ve worked at Cool FM, I’ve also worked in films, two movies with Desmond Elliot, Van Vicker and Uche Jombo TS: We heard a rumor you are a classical opera singer? Emma Nyra: [Laughs] Yes I was a classically trained opera singer in high school. I use to be very active in my school choir and different competitions. It was a fun time and I’m grateful for it. TS: What would you consider your genre? Emma Nyra: I do pop, and I do reggae. TS: If you could dabble into another genre, what would it be? Emma Nyra: I can rap and that’s only because I went to college in Houston. I can freestyle and actually very well, if I do say so myself. TS: A lot of this is focused in the entertainment industry and you’ve obviously been doing this for some time, who are you today versus when you started?
Emma Nyra is wearing the Eleela Set $170 from Tribe of Dumo
tribalot.com/shop/tribeofdumo
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Emma Nyra: When I started, I was more open to outside opinion instead of focusing on my talents and being more focused on myself. The new me knows to trust my instincts and to have fun. The new me is constantly trying and perfect my craft and not really listen to any negative opinions. TS: What are some challenges you faced breaking into the music industry in Nigeria because I know it has got to be challenging? Emma Nyra: Some challenges I faced are, you know sometimes, people don’t really book female artists because there aren’t enough of us to make a statement. Now, it’s much better, there are so many female artist and you know it’s just been better. TS: Speaking of being a female artist, I’ve heard that being a woman in the industry in Nigeria is challenging. I want to hear it directly from somebody that has actually experienced it; how is it being a woman in the industry? Emma Nyra: I wouldn’t say its challenging, but its difficult because of the fact that in a male dominated society a lot of men help men but they don’t want to help women. Women are limited to not only the resources available to them; they’re limited because of the fact that it costs more to book a female artist than to book a male artist. We have more expenses. If you book a woman, you also have to book a make up artist, you have to book someone to escort her, so different expenses come with it which sometimes makes it difficult for men to book us. But its getting better now because it’s a normal thing now, they’ve mastered what accommodates us, they can cater to us now, its easier. Now you can see a female show & a good show. TS: If you could single out one event that changed you mentally and emotionally, what would it be? Emma Nyra: Uhmmmn one event that changed me mentally and emotionally [laughs]. I think when I released my EP “Love Versus Money” because it really let me know I can do what I put my mind to, it’s something that I’ve been working toward literally since I was little. To be able to put out music that represents me and be a voice for my generation for women especially because it hasn’t been done before where you put on the radio and hear like 5 different female artists, it doesn’t sound like a lot but to me, that changed my life. TS: There’s this new wave with Africa and Nigeria being put on the global map, how does it make you feel that Afrobeats or Africa as a whole is going global right now? Emma Nyra: I’m glad that it’s our generation that’s getting to witness this. More so, I’m glad it’s our generation ushering that in too. It really is a global phenomenon because if you go to Europe; its Afrobeats playing at clubs and on the radio. If you come to America; you see people like Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys listening to African music on the regular. They’re African too, but we’re all tapping into Africa in a way that’s never been done before. I’m happy to be a part of that movement. I’m just really happy we get
to witness that. We’re the first generation since Fela that gets to enjoy this level of global recognition and be a part of it. History is happening right now, it’s a good feeling.
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TS: I follow you on social media and you advocate for girl power all the time. What advice do you have for young girls out dream chasing? Emma Nyra: The primary advice I have for the young girls here is you have to keep a close knit of people that are positive. Yes, there are critics out there but they don’t belong in your circle. Get positive people who can give you constructive feedback. Check anybody that’s, successful, they have at least a group of people around them who are helping their success just by giving them a good vibe. Also stay prayed up, there are demons out here. Stay prayed up and do your best to keep yourself in a source of positivity. TS: Considering the stance you have about female empowerment, what are you doing right now to further the cause?
SELL INSPIRE
Emma Nyra: I’m working on a lot right now, can’t give out too much information yet but we are doing a lot with Nyra Phoenix Foundation at the moment. Catering to those in need by hosting charity events to raise money for scholarships, feeding the homeless especially in the rural parts of Nigeria and tons of stuff. I’m also working on something that caters exclusively to woman, the homeless and the elderly. I consider it a privilege to help where I can. TS: On the last EP you dropped, it had 8 songs on it and you had some features from Dammy Krane, Patoranking, Fiokee, Cynthia Morgan, Victoria Kimani and Banky W. Should we look forward to more collaborations in the future? Emma Nyra: Definitely! The industry right now is full of talent; I can’t even pinpoint who my favorite person is [laughs]. Shoutout Wande Coal because he’s always been on my favorite list for a minute and he’s going to always be on my favorite list. I’m going to have a lot of collabs and people should look forward to that, especially with the girls, girls are popping right now! [laughs] TS: What do we look forward to for the rest of the year with Emma Nyra? Emma Nyra: More videos and also some secret collabs I’ve been working on. TS: Well, we wish you nothing but luck here at Tribalot Style and you know it’s nothing but love and support for you here! Any last words for us?
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Emma Nyra: Big up my fans, my Nyra nation holding it down for me one time! www.tribalotStyle.com | www.tribalot.com
Shop the above style from Sosome on tribalot.com. Photo credit: Sosome
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FAITH FAMILY
FITNESS with L eah Egwuatu
photographed by: Fotos By Ben
styled by Tamris
In a country where rates of obesity and gestational diabetes are on the rise, Leah Egwuatu is doing something a lot of fitness trainers aren’t doing; pre and post-natal training. Going against the norm of pregnancy being a sedated time in a woman’s life, Leah has worked tirelessly to promote a healthier way of living when pregnant with nutritional meals from her eBook Fit Foodie Le, pre-natal fitness classes and home exercise routines for mums and moms-to-be with little ones. We caught up with this mum of 2 (soon to be 3) who isn’t letting pregnancy slow her down.
TS: Not a lot of people are branching into fitness and pregnancy, why did you decide to go into it and why?
Leah: Because not a lot of people are branching into fitness and pregnancy [laughs] It is still such a taboo and controversial topic and women are often unclear as to what they can do and what they can’t do while pregnant. Educating and showing women how to have a fit pregnancy and seeing them experience those benefits both during and after pregnancy is why I do what I do.
TS: You, your husband and your brother-in-law started a fitness company, tell us about the family business and how it started?
Leah: I threw around the idea of competing in a bikini competition for years, and Sonny {Leah’s husband} and I actually tackled our first one together on our 5th wedding anniversary on September 15th, 2012. 6 Pack USA was born through our desire to share our physical and mental transformations! The three of us started 6 Pack USA to help anyone who desires to meet their own personal health and fitness goals. We take great pride in providing successful, customized meal and workout plans for our clients geared specifically towards those goals. TS: With all you are a part of, how is it going into business with your husband? Leah: It can be very challenging at times! Sonny knows my strengths and weaknesses and vice versa, so we do our best to fill in the gaps and somehow remain friends through it all, [laughs]. TS: Ok, it’s clear fitness is a passion and a business for you (and your family), was there any other reason for your website?
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Leah: Yes… to share my healthy lifestyle! It started with answering emails I would receive from friends and family, and I answered back individually for a good while. I thought, why not just document this so-called lifestyle journey of mine via blog so that all the info would be in one spot!? I went for it and answered questions, shared tips and information concerning cooking and working out, and receiving blog comments and positive feedback from my recipes was THE best feeling! I then began to share some of my family life and personal goals (1st bikini comp, birthdays, fitness events and conferences, anniversaries, etc.) which is where my love for blogging really began to grow. My very first recipe e-book, Fit Foodie Lean was produced the very next year! TS: On social media, we get to see your kids work out with you, how do you set boundaries with work and family? Leah: In the very beginning, I tried so hard to keep them separate! Sonny actually said that seeing the kids run around and ‘mess up’ everything is actually funny and real life. He’s totally right. They are generally interested in what I’m doing, how to operate my workout equipment, etc., so I took it as a learning opportunity and a chance to have some fun and bond with them. My boys are CRAZY active and rarely sitting still!
It is still such a taboo and controversial topic and women are often unclear as to what they can do and what they can’t do while pregnant...
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TribalotStyle HEALTH
TS: What is your typical day like and how do you balance it all? What keeps you grounded and motivated?
Leah: I wake up around 4:15am a few times a week to either teach my classes at Lifetime Fitness, or train prenatal clients (yes, some preggo women do get up early to get it in with me!). Then I head home to feed my boys and get them ready for our day. Now that my oldest is a kindergartener this year, things are different and new for us schedule-wise. I miss him while he’s away at school, but I am now able to get more work done with just one kiddo around the house (and he still naps, WOO HOO!) I focus on at least 1-2 priorities per day, in additional to normal wife and mommy duties of course, that’s it. I no longer try to do a little bit of everything at the same time; this has never proved to work effectively for me as I never truly finish a thing! As for what keeps me grounded, I wake up every morning and give my entire day to God. It makes all the difference.
TS: On your fitness journey, what has been the defining moments for you (good or bad)? Leah: Even though I’m 8 months pregnant, I’m still on my fitness journey no doubt. After my fitness competition in 2012, I was all about living and being lean. I was consumed with fitness before my competition, but it only magnified things that much more. Setting and achieving a big fitness goal like a bikini competition is BIG! I am so proud of myself for committing and actually finishing, something I have always struggled with when it comes to long-term goals. I have been very transparent about my fitness addiction via my blog, and pregnancy actually helps me ‘snap out’ of that whole unhealthy ‘stage lean 24/7’ mentality. Pregnancy helps me appreciate my body for what it can do, and to realize when I’m putting aesthetics before health, as that is not what a healthy lifestyle is all about.
out a fearless, bold, passionate side of me. She makes her grand entrance once I put my microphone on. People come up to me after class and say what a sweet, reserved girl I appear to be…. until they take my class, [laugh]
TS: We are hearing about all these things you are doing and was there a time you wanted to give up, and why?
Leah: Definitely. I left the corporate world in 2013 and it feels like I have been struggling to make and keep up with my own schedule ever since. Trying to run a business(es) and be the best wife and mommy you can be HARD. Some days I’m like, “Leah, do you want to me a full time mom, or work full time?!” because doing both is impossible and exhausting! When I’m busting my butt and making waves in one area, I’m lacking and need to pick up the pace in another. I feel like true balance is unattainable and a big myth, but I have made it up in my mind to wake up and do my VERY BEST every single day. That is literally all I can even do. I don’t waste time worrying about the things I cannot change and focus on bettering the ones I can.
TS: Who has influenced you the most in your life?
TS: What has been the struggles you’ve encountered thus far?
Leah: Being preggo for the 3rd time and working with other preggo moms has been a true blessing. I tell them all the time that prenatal fitness motivation is on a whole new level!! Especially in the 1st trimester (sickness, fatigue) and 3rd trimesters (uncomfortable, hormonal, just ready to pop!). I am able to empathize and relate to them that much more, and connect with them on a more emotional level. This experience has also helped me perfect my Fit Pregnancy Guide, a long-term goal I’ve been working on since I was pregnant with my 2nd boy. TS: Some fitness instructors have alter egos when they train [laughs] Do you have an alter ego? If yes, who is she and when is she most likely to come out? Leah: I totally have an alter ego but I still don’t have a name for her after all this time! Becoming a fitness instructor has brought
Leah: My parents introduced me to Christ at a young age, which was the most important thing they have ever done. I can’t imagine living this life without Him. My mother’s patience when dealing with children (she’s a preK teacher) is what I am inspired by when interacting with my own boys. How she handles a classroom full of 4 year olds daily and hasn’t cracked after 20 something years I will never understand, my father’s dedication to his Christian faith over the years (reads his bible and prays daily, attends church weekly, teaches Sunday school and Sunday sermons, rounded us up for church as children, led nightly devotions for our family, prays over our food anytime we eat…). I am just so thankful for their EXAMPLE. The saying is true- kids don’t always listen to what we say, but they always watch what we do. I would come downstairs and see my mom praying and having her devotion in the mornings and as a mom of 2 almost 3 kiddos, remembering that image helps me keep the things that matter most in the forefront and God number one.
TS: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting healthier?
Leah: There are a billion fitness programs out there. Find one that works for you, and one that you can LIVE with. No fad diets. No quick fixes to fit a dress for an upcoming event or occasion. Practice moderation, not deprivation or restriction.
TS: We will round up our interview with a random question. If you could meet one person in the world, who will it be? Leah: Michelle Obama! Plus, Sonny wants to hoop with Barack.
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TribalotStyle TRAVEL
NOT ALL
ADVEN TURES
ARE
EXPE NSIVE
ould you like to sail down the Nile, go trekking in the Himalayas, or go white-water rafting through gorges in the Andes Mountains? Have you dreamed of riding a camel through the desert, island-hopping by boat in the tropics, or climbing to the top of a volcano? “Yes,” you sigh, “but I can’t afford it.” Well, if you’re going by the prices in one of those glossy adventure travel brochures, you’re probably right. You’ll need to have a very fat bank account indeed. But if you follow in the footsteps of long-term travelers and book locally, all of these adventures are easily within your grasp. So are boat rides down the Amazon, African safaris, and cycling through Patagonia. Booking Here, Booking there!!! The difference of what you can afford often boils down to where your money is going. In general, the more people that are involved in a transaction, the more a service is going to cost you. So if you book an adventure trip through an agency in your own country, you’re paying the agency owners their profit, you’re paying the employees who will accompany you on the trip (and covering their expenses), and you’re paying the local tour company at your destination who will be doing 60
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the guiding and supplying the equipment, with their margin built in as well. Add that all together and a typical “adventure tour” of two or three weeks can easily run $3,000 to $4,000 per person, not including airfare. With airfare the trip might top ten grand for two. If you’re flying somewhere especially far or difficult to get to, it’ll be much higher. Pull out the first few middle men, however, and you’ll pay a fraction of that. Let’s take a fairly typical example that I’ve experienced firsthand, which is a three-week trip trekking the Himalayas on the Annapurna Circuit of Nepal. This trip is exhilarating, breathtaking, and inspiring. It’s also dirt cheap or ungodly expensive, depending on how you go. What would it cost you to do this on your own? When I did my Annapurna trek, I had come over to Nepal on a cheap flight from India. My friends and I carried our own packs and stayed in the lodges that are scattered all along the trail. We usually got an early start and consequently got one or two of the best lodge rooms in each village (less than $1 each). We ate our fill at each meal ($1 – $2), bought the odd Snickers bar or beer here and there, and always got dessert after dinner. After three weeks of trekking, we had spent less than $200 each, including the bus to and from Pokhara. There’s no need for a guide, but had we hired one, it would have cost us another $50 or so each. Add another $50 each if we’d wanted a porter.
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w w w . t r i b a l o t . c o m Let’s say we paid all their meals and gave them a fat tip at the end. We still couldn’t have spent more than $500 each if we had tried. Along the way, we met many travelers who had booked with a tour company in Europe, Canada, or the US and paid anywhere from US$1,200 to $3,900. That included a few hotel nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but otherwise they were experiencing much the same thing as we were. Their loads were lighter, but the ones who paid the most were sleeping in tents, not lodges, and it got pretty cold at night. A few of the French groups had a gourmet chef along, but that meant set meals prepared at one time, not the “whatever, whenever” choices we were getting off a menu. On this trek, there wasn’t much point in a guide, but they had someone to ask questions if they wanted. The downside was that the pace of the group was the pace of the group—no going off on their own, following their personal rhythm or speed.
BUY SELL INSPIRE
I’ve seen this same scene play out around the world, whether it was hiking up volcanoes in Indonesia and the Philippines, taking a weeklong tour through the hill tribe areas of Vietnam, or touring the Mayan ruins in Mexico. Same experience, very different price tag. Who Should Book Ahead? So does this mean you’re automatically a sucker if you book your adventure trip from home? No, because there are certainly good reasons for doing that. If your schedule is very tight and you need to get back to work, it makes lots of sense to let someone else work out all the travel details. You’ll get around faster if you’re on charter buses as a group. If you’re somewhere like rural China or Uzbekistan, where the language barrier is an issue, having good guides or translators can be a huge help. And if you’re the type who likes to let others make the decisions or prefers to travel with a built-in group of companions, an organized tour makes sense. If you book with a reputable agency, the food will probably be good and hygienic, your guides will speak English well, and your hotel rooms will be comfortable–some will even have character. If something goes wrong, you have someone at home to complain to afterwards. However, if you have some time to nose around after you arrive somewhere, and you’re wise in the ways of travel, think about waiting until arrival and putting all your money into the local coffers. You just might save enough to pay for your plane ticket home…
Tribalot w w w . t r i b a l o t . c o m Shop the above style from Attolle Clothiers on tribalot.com. Photo credit: Attolle Clothiers
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A F R I C A N M U Z I K M A G A Z I N E AWA R D S
AFRIMMA
W W W. A F R I M M A . C O M
JOIN A
GLOBAL F A M I LY OF CREATIVE MINDS w w w Tr i b a l o t . c o m /s e l l
BUY . SELL . INSPIRE
Tribalot www.tribalot.com Shop the above style from Tribe of Dumo on tribalot.com