THEWILL DOWNTOWN May 05, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE

NPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

igeria is known as the economic powerhouse of Africa and is setting herself as an admirable force in the fintech industry. Recently, there has been a rise in fintech startups in the country. This is due to several factors, including understanding consumer needs. These fintech startups are experts in several sectors, including payments, personal finance management, and blockchain. A significant reason for the growth of fintech companies in Nigeria is the need to solve the common person’s problems in his financial transactions.

Scroll to pages 8 through 10 to read some of the fintech companies we have highlighted.

The colour of furniture you choose can transform a room from boring to vibrant. One of the simplest ways to add colour to your house is to select pieces of furniture in striking colours to act as focal points. Read all about how to infuse vibrancy into your home on page 7.

Butter yellow is a must-have this season. The colour is making a statement, and you don’t want to be left behind. There are several ways you can incorporate butter yellow into your outfit. I’ll let you read the ways on pages 4 and 5.

This week in Downtown Confidential, we discuss the dos and don’ts of manually stimulating her. You’ll be shocked at the simple things you must do to stimulate your partner properly—head to page 15.

Remember to click on the instructions below the QR codes on page 16 to download our playlist. You’ll love the music selection.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2349088352246

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Lifestyle Editor at Large: Eki Ogunbor

Writer: Johnson Chukwueke

Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

12 04-05 FASHION BEAUTY

07

DÉCOR

5 Effective Post Workout Skincare Routines For Active Men

COVER

6 Stylish Ways to Rock Butter Yellow This Season

The Power of Colour Infusing Vibrancy Into Your Furniture Choices

8-10 11 15 16 13 14 REVIEW

#SWEETGIRL DOINGS Fintech in Nigeria The Leading Service Providers

It’s My Birthday Tomorrow!

LIVING

TECHTALK

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

Stress-free Living Techniques To Relieve Stress

Revolutionizing Creativity. AI and it’s Notable Role in Content Creation

Manual Stimulation Dos and Don’ts Tips For Pleasurable Play

Challengers

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity

- Contributing Editor

Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm

- Contributing Writer

Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

Dorcas Akintoye

Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty.  She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.

@eso.dike

ESO DIKE

FASHION

6 Stylish Ways to Rock

BUTTER YELLOW

This Season

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

As fashion trends change, so do the colours that dominate the catwalk and our closets. Butter yellow is one colour that’s making a bold statement this season. It is a must-have colour for any wardrobe since it’s warm, soft, and lovely. It adds a hint of sunshine to any ensemble. Adding butter yellow to your clothes may instantly up your style ante, regardless of whether you’re a colour-obsessed fashionista or someone who loves to explore. Let’s show you six chic ways that will help you incorporate this bright hue into your everyday outfits.

1. STATEMENT PIECES

2. ACCESSORIES GALORE

Accessories are your best friend if you’re not ready to commit to wearing butter yellow clothing. There are a gazillion ways to accessorise your looks with this cheerful tone, from jewellery and scarves to purses and shoes. A neutral ensemble may be instantly made more fun and vibrant with a butter yellow crossbody purse or a bold pair of earrings.

Any ensemble looks fascinating when paired with butter-yellow. Wear a butter-yellow coat, blazer, or dress to add a splash of colour to your outfit. A butter-yellow blazer with fitted pants and a clean white shirt achieves an elegant and refined appearance that works well for both business meetings and after-work cocktails. For a more laid-back look, put on a butter-yellow coat over simple jeans and a shirt to lift the spirits on even the gloomiest days.

3. MIX AND MATCH

4. PRINTS AND PATTERN

When it comes to mixing and matching, butter yellow is very adaptable because it works well with many different colours. Try matching butter yellow to crisp white or subtle pastels like blush pink or mint green for a fresh, contemporary style. Alternatively, combine butter yellow with contrasting hues like emerald green or navy blue for a stronger look. By experimenting with different colour combinations, you can create distinctive and striking ensembles that style.

5.

6. LAYERING BASICS MONOCHROME MAGIC

Layering is a useful way to transition from one season to the next and gives you many chances to incorporate butteryellow into your outfits. To add a pop of colour to your outfit, start with a neutral base layer like a black turtleneck or white tee, then add butteryellow pieces. Consider wearing lightweight jackets, cardigans, or sweaters in butteryellow hues to bring warmth and visual appeal to your layered outfits.

It’s not necessary to limit your use of butter yellow in your clothing to solid hues. Incorporate this vibrant colour into designs and patterns for a lighthearted and enjoyable twist. Butter yellow floral designs lend a playful touch to blouses and dresses, making them ideal for spring and summertime events. On the other hand, geometric designs with butter yellow highlights can give your outfit a modern edge, whether worn as a top, skirt, or even a headband or scarf.

Go monochromatic with butter yellow for a striking and avant-garde look. Dressing head-totoe in one colour can be intimidating, but it conveys sophistication and confidence when done well. Choose butter yellow in various tones and textures to give your ensemble depth and complexity. For a stylish monochromatic look that will draw attention, pair a butter-yellow shirt with fitted pants that are slightly darker in colour.

Not only is it an excellent opportunity to play around with colour, but adding pieces to your wardrobe is also a sure way to brighten your look. Embracing butter yellow is a chic option that will get you compliments everywhere you go, whether you go all out with statement pieces or gently incorporate this sunny shade through accessories and layering. Therefore, don’t be scared to integrate sunshine-coloured pieces into your wardrobe this season.

COLOUR BLACK AND WHITE SPECIAL SPOTS

Center Spread Half Page N1, 300, 000

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9X6 N440, 000

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7X4 N315, 000

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4X4 N160, 000

4X3 N95, 000

4X2 N65, 000

3X3 N60, 000

3X2 N50, 000

2X2 N30, 000

2X1 N15, 000

1X1 N7, 000

THE POWER OF COLOUR

Infusing Vibrancy Into Your Furniture Choices

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Colour is a powerful, silent language that can significantly influence our moods and personalities. Proper furniture colour selection may take a room from boring to vibrant when it comes to home decor. A vibrant furniture selection will give your house life and showcase your sense of style. In this article, we’ll look at six quick and easy methods to add colour to your furniture choices and make your living room pop with personality.

1. BOLD ACCENT PIECES

Bold accent items are one of the simplest ways to add colour to your house. Choose pieces of furniture with striking colours like sunny yellow, electrifying blue, or radiant red. By serving as focal points, these objects enliven the area without overwhelming the space.

2. MIX AND MATCH COLOURS

Don’t be afraid to combine various hues when choosing your furniture set. Combining complementary or opposing tones may create a fun and eclectic atmosphere. For example, place a bright purple side table next to a sleek, neutral-toned coffee table, or combine a deep green sofa with orange throw pillows.

3. COLOURFUL UPHOLSTERY

If you’re not ready to commit to furniture with vibrant colours, consider spending money on vibrant upholstery. Reupholstering your old furniture or choosing bright fabric for brandnew items allows you to play with different colours without committing to a whole colour scheme. It’s an affordable way to give your room a makeover.

4. STATEMENT FURNITURE

Furniture with distinctive shapes and designs will make a big impression. Statement items, such as a bookcase painted in vibrant colours or an oddball-shaped chair, may act as focal points and discussion starters in your house. Select pieces of furniture that offer a hint of uniqueness while also going well with your colour scheme.

5. PLAYFUL PATTERNS

Playful designs on your furniture can add a splash of colour. Choose vibrantly printed or textured sofas, chairs, or ottomans. You can liven up your place with geometric prints, floral motifs, or abstract graphics. Ensure the patterns are harmonised with the room’s overall colour scheme.

6.NATUREINSPIRED HUES

Vibrant hues are abundant in the natural world. Consider using colours influenced by nature, such as earthy tones, sky blues, or rich greens, in your furniture selections. In addition to bringing the outside in, these hues produce a tranquil, revitalising vibe.

CONCLUSION

Colour influences your living space’s ambience and vitality in ways that go beyond simple aesthetics. Treat your furniture as a canvas expressing individuality and taste by embracing colour and daring design decisions. You can boldly bring colour and vitality into your house with these six ideas, reflecting your personality and energy.

The Leading Service Providers FINTECH IN NIGERIA

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Nigeria, often hailed as the economic powerhouse of Africa, is steadily solidifying itself as a formidable force in financial technology (fintech) innovation. With a large labour force, a growing presence in the tech scenery, and eagerness for more development, the Nigerian fintech landscape is showing itself to be a fertile ground for even more digital financial services to grow and have more positive effects.

In recent years, there has been an enormous rise in fintech startups in the country. This is thanks to a combination of factors such as regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, and an understanding of

consumer needs. These fintech startups specialise in various sectors, including payments, lending, personal finance management, insurance, and blockchain. One of the key reasons for the growth of fintech in Nigeria is the need to address the challenges of the common man in his daily financial transactions. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, a large percentage of the Nigerian population remains unbanked. A significant number of individuals aren’t aware of the convenience that banking brings, and those who are using the banking systems encounter several issues that discourage them. Fintech

solutions are addressing this issue by providing innovative, accessible, and easy financial services to the underserved masses, especially in rural areas.

This week, we will be highlighting some of the finest fintech startups in Nigeria that are making a tremendous impact in the economy as well as making daily transactions a lot simpler for the masses.

Opera Pay(Opay)

Since its launch in 2018, OPay has made a significant impact on the Nigerian fintech landscape. In Nigeria, OPay’s mission is to address the financial challenges of the populace by utilising technology to provide innovative and reliable financial services to both individuals and businesses in Nigeria.

The company’s creative, ingenious strategy for digital payments has helped millions of Nigerians gain access to financial services, empowering individuals and businesses to participate more fully in the digital aspect of the economy. One of the key strategies employed by Opay is the “fast payment” feature they are known for. Delayed payment has always been an issue for the masses as they waste precious time waiting around for a transaction to reflect before going on to the next activity of their day. This has become a thing of the past as fast payment and quick reflection of transactions are the orders of the day.

In addition to mobile money, OPay has diversified its services by venturing into other sectors of the digital economy. For instance, OPay’s subsidiary, ORide, provides ride-hailing services, enabling users to book motorcycle taxis for their transportation needs. OPay also operates OFood, a food delivery service, allowing users to order food from their favourite restaurants and have it delivered to their doorstep. Furthermore, OPay’s presence stimulated competition and more innovation in the fintech sector, creating improvements in transactions, affordability, and accessibility of financial services across the country.

Flutterwave

A prominent financial technology company that originated in Nigeria, Flutterwave quickly established itself as a leading player, not just in Nigeria, but also in the African fintech landscape. Founded in 2016 by Nigerian entrepreneurs

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji and Olugbenga Agboola, Flutterwave has made it known that its mission is to make payments simple for businesses and individuals across the African continent, as well as empowering them to thrive in the digital economy. The company’s journey began with a focus on providing smooth payment solutions for businesses, enabling them to accept payments from customers both locally and globally.

Flutterwave’s innovative platform simplifies online

payments, mobile money transfers, card payments, and more, offering a unified and reliable payment structure for businesses of all sizes. Flutterwave’s impact in Nigeria extends beyond just aiding transactions. The company is committed to pushing financial inclusion by making financial services accessible equally to all and empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses to participate more fully in the digital economy. By providing easyto-use payment solutions that tend to the needs of businesses and individuals across numerous fields, Flutterwave is helping to unlock and create economic opportunities as well as increase growth in Nigeria and other African markets. So far, Flutterwave’s journey from its humble beginnings in Nigeria to its current status as a leading fintech player is enough proof of the transformative power that fintech has in Nigeria.

Moniepoint

Established in 2015 by Tosin Eniolorunda and Felix Ike, Moniepoint is a super agent of the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facility (SANEF), a project initiated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) to promote financial inclusion and expand the reach of banking services across Nigeria.

Speaking to Edidiong Uwemakpan, Vice President, Brand, Communications, and PR, she spoke on the objectives of Moniepoint saying “Moniepoint Inc. exists to create a society where everyone experiences financial happiness and as such. we are focused on powering the dreams of people and businesses with access to banking, payment processing, loans, and business management tools that help them to be very productive. To do this, Moniepoint puts the customer at the heart and center of everything it does. We are constantly researching and engaging to collect feedback, address concerns, and constantly improve our services to meet customer needs. We have also invested heavily in innovation and technology whilst retaining an eye for simplicity and functionality. Irrespective of your social standings, Moniepoint’s services are easy to use whether it’s the banking app, USSD functionality, or POS terminals.”

Also commenting on the challenges faced, Edidiong had this to say:

“Moniepoint puts the customer at the heart and center of everything it does. We are constantly researching and engaging to collect feedback, address concerns, and constantly improve our services to meet customer needs.”

...Edidiong Uwemakpan VP, Brand, Communication and PR

“The challenges we have faced are no different from the industry-wide obstacles that stakeholders are trying to navigate. For example, inadequate internet penetration, poor network quality, and overall infrastructural deficits across major areas of our national life remain a sore thumb. We appreciate the work done by the main players and regulators, however, we need to fast-track these improvements fast so that digital access and seamless financial transactions can happen in rural and remote areas.

There is also a need for all players in the fintech ecosystem to strongly collaborate as we ramp up our investments in the areas of transaction monitoring, cyber security, fraud detection systems, and technologies that can help with flagging suspicious activities.”

PiggyVest

Formerly known as Piggybank. ng, Piggyvest is a Nigerian fintech company that has emerged as a leading player in the country’s financial services sector. Founded in 2016 by Somto Ifezue, Odunayo Eweniyi, and Joshua Chibueze, PiggyVest’s mission is to promote a savings culture and financial discipline among Nigerians by providing innovative digital savings and investment solutions.

The company’s journey began with the launch of its main product, Piggybank. ng, a platform that enables users to save and invest small amounts of money regularly through contributions. PiggyVest’s platform offers various savings options, including savings plans, target savings, and group savings, allowing users to set savings goals, track their progress, and earn interest on their savings. Individuals have been used to saving up their money but get tempted to take from it, and for those who stick to their saving plans, saving up with no idea of how to make their saved money brings in more for them. Thanks to Piggyvest, its saving scheme has positively impacted users as it has promoted financial literacy, discipline, and a culture of saving and investment. In addition to its savings and investment offerings, PiggyVest has expanded its product portfolio to include other financial services such as insurance, pension, and investment opportunities. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, PiggyVest has its sights set on expanding its range of services and reach, thereby empowering more Nigerians to build wealth and achieve financial security.

Kuda

Kuda is a fast-growing digital bank in Nigeria that has been making waves in the country’s fintech landscape since its inception. Founded in 2019 by Babs Ogundeyi and Musty Mustapha, Kuda’s mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and convenient banking services to individuals and businesses in Nigeria, particularly the younger generation and those lacking proper service

by traditional banks.

The main objective of Kuda originates from the recognition of the challenges faced by Nigerians in accessing traditional banking services, including long queues, hidden fees, and bulky paperwork. To tackle this issue, Kuda set out to undo how things were done by utilising technology to offer a more efficient and user-friendly banking experience through its mobile app.

It’s reasonable to conclude that Kuda has been hitting its targets and making banking a lot more convenient for the masses. Kuda’s impact extends beyond just providing banking services; it also plays a vital role in promoting economic empowerment and financial literacy in Nigeria. By offering educational resources, financial management tools, and access to affordable banking services, Kuda continues to empower individuals and businesses to make financial decisions and achieve their goals.

Kuda’s commendable banking solutions and satisfaction of customers have earned it a loyal following and nationwide acclaim within the fintech industry. The company’s user-friendly interface, low transaction fees, and responsive customer support have been a pleasant experience for users.

Paga

One of the pioneering fintech companies to grace the Nigerian digital payment scenery, Paga was founded in 2009 by Tayo Oviosu. Paga’s mission is to make it simple for people to access and use money, granting individuals and businesses convenient and secure means of financial services.

Paga came into the digital economy scene in Nigeria with the desire to address the country’s financial challenges when it comes to payment. Paga set out to transform the way people transact and manage their finances. Coming at a time when little was known about digital payments, Paga recognised the large untapped potential in Nigeria’s economy and harnessed technology to provide an array of innovative solutions that catered to the needs of both banked and unbanked individuals. Through its mobile money platform, Paga enables users to send and receive money, pay bills, buy airtime, and access other financial services conveniently and securely, all from their mobile phones. The company has continuously evolved its services to meet the changing needs of its customers, increasing its range of services to include traders’ payments, savings, loans, and international money transfers.

As years go by, Paga continues to improve its systems, and it remains committed to its mission of making it simple for people to access and use money. Considering that Paga is one of the oldest fintech companies in Nigeria and still going strong with the introduction of other startups, one would be correct to say Paga is definitely doing something right for them to still have a loyal following and a wide reach in the country.

As the fintech sector continues to grow, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has actively promoted a conducive regulatory environment for fintech innovation. Initiatives such as the Payment Service Banks (PSBs) framework, regulatory sandboxes, and open banking policies have encouraged experimentation and collaboration within the fintech ecosystem. Additionally, Nigeria’s fintech scene has attracted significant investment from both local and international investors who see the country’s potential and want to be part of its success story. Nigeria’s fintech scenery tells an exciting story of transformation, financial equality, and opportunity, with all these putting the country in the position of a key player in Africa’s rapidly developing digital economy.

EKI OGUNBOR

@ekiogunbor

IT’S MY BIRTHDAY

Tomorrow!

It’smy birthday tomorrow! I’m usually super excited for birthdays, but this one feels different. I can’t particularly say why, but it truly just feels different. It might be a combination of things. The fear of getting older and things changing around me, including my body and my relationships with those around me. There are also certain things I’d have liked to happen by this point in my life that have either failed or not happened at all, and that’s also something I’ve had to accept. However, at every point, I will always be grateful.

So this year, I am grateful to God almighty for His blessings, grace, and mercy. For giving me a new chance every day to wake up and experience life again because many people don’t have that opportunity anymore. I’m also grateful for my family, and my friends turned family. I’m grateful for people who have been kind to me, who enjoy my work, and who appreciate what I create. I’m especially grateful for those whom I’ve never met but silently cheer me on and support me in the little ways they can. Thank you.

This year, I’m also very grateful to God for the opportunities that have come my way career-wise and a special friend I met as well; we’ll call him Mr Wise. This past year, I got two new jobs, and I’m confident that I’m on my way to the financial stability I’ve always prayed for, and to be very honest, there’s no better feeling. It hasn’t been easy juggling everything I have to do, but I’m going to take this

week to reflect and reorganise my priorities.

Do you have any birthday traditions?  Usually, I’d buy myself cake and balloons, but things might be different this year. But one thing that will remain, are the photos. For the past three consecutive

years, I’ve done a birthday shoot with different photographers each time. It’s become sort of a tradition at this point, and I love it for me. I’ve also noticed I do a black look every year, and I can’t wait to see how the photos for this year turn out. My love of photos, fashion, and personal style got me into blogging & content creation in the first place, so it makes sense that I’d celebrate myself every year with photos. I’ve also decided that I’m no longer going to wait till it’s my birthday to do photoshoots; a year is way too long. If they make me happy, then I’m going to do more. Na things way go make me happy I wan de do now. Lol

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the years, it’s that life is in stages and I’m here for every blessing and every lesson that God has prepared for me. The overthinker in me is still learning not to stress over the things I cannot change or control, but I’m making progress so I just need to keep going. And so should you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

Happy birthday, Eki.

May God continue to give you all you need to be the best version of yourself every day. May you find good, sweet love. May you experience peace beyond human understanding and may God continue to preserve your sweetness in a world that can be bitter. Amen!

Cheers to More Money And Less Problems. (That’s my absolute favourite toast, but you can steal it and quote me lol).

BEAUTY

SKINCARE ROUTINES FOR ACTIVE MEN 5 EFFECTIVE POST WORKOUT

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Taking care of your skin after exercise is vital to maintain good skin and avoid body acne. You should be aware of the effects exercise can have on your skin, even while it is good for your general health and well-being. If you don’t treat excessive sweating while exercising, it might cause breakouts and skin irritations. However, do not panic. This article will explore the best post-workout skincare routine for men.

(1)CLEANSING AWAY SWEAT AND IMPURITIES

Make washing your face a priority as soon as you’re done working out to get rid of the perspiration and pollutants that have accumulated. By cleansing your skin right away, you may avoid breakouts and congested pores. Apply a mild cleanser appropriate for every kind of skin. Your skin will feel clean and renewed after using this solution, which thoroughly washes without depriving it of moisture.

(3)NOURISHING WITH FACIAL SERUM

(2)GENTLE EXFOLIATION FOR FRESH SKIN

By including a little exfoliation in your post-workout regimen in addition to cleaning, you can ensure that all traces of sweat, filth, and grime are completely gone from your skin. Exfoliating the skin has two benefits: skin renewal and pore unclogging. Any skin type, including sensitive skin, might benefit from a mild face scrub or facial exfoliant. Your skin will get purified and feel renewed after using these products.

Your skin needs to be replenished with nutritious substances after cleaning and exfoliating. Strong formulae that target certain skincare issues and hydrate the skin are called facial serums. Select the anti-ageing, brightening, or moisturising serum that best meets your skin-specific needs. To improve absorption and maximise the serum’s efficacy, gently massage it into your skin.

(5) DON’T FORGET YOUR BODY CONCLUSION

As vital as skincare for your face is, you should also take care of your body after working out. Shower immediately after working out to rid your body of sweat to avoid back or chest breakouts. To gently cleanse and exfoliate your skin without removing its natural moisture, use a body wash containing niacinamide and salicylic acid.

(4) MOISTURISING FOR HYDRATION

For optimal hydration and preservation of your skin’s healthy moisture barrier, moisturise your skin right after using a serum. Pick a moisturiser that addresses the issues and kind of your skin. For lightweight hydration that doesn’t clog pores, use an oilfree moisturiser if you have oily skin.

Adopting a comprehensive approach to skincare and general well-being is crucial, even though a post-workout skincare routine is essential for preserving good skin. Skincare encompasses not just exterior aspects but also lifestyle decisions and internal health. Your sleep habits, exercise regimen, and food all significantly impact keeping your skin healthy.

STRESS-FREE LIVING

Techniques To Relieve Stress

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Every day, we are charged with waking up, going about our daily lives, and doing what’s necessary to build a better life for ourselves. But then again, facing challenges leads to so much stress. As much as we don’t want stress and try to avoid it, stress comes along nonetheless: stress from stressful work conditions, stress from personal relationships, and stress from just being in an environment. The question is, how do you deal with it? Everyone has their limits; some deal with it adequately, while some get so overwhelmed that it gets the better of them. So, we will highlight a few basic stress-relieving techniques to help you maintain a sane mental state and general well-being.

Identifying Triggers

In general, before any solution is provided, the problem has to be known and understood. The same can be applied to stress to find a relieving solution. The first step is to identify situations, events, or even people who seem to put you in an overwhelmed state of mind. Take time to observe your daily routines, things that get you spiked up, places that make you seem uncomfortable, and even topics that trigger you.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

These techniques include breathing exercises, listening to relaxing music, mindful meditation, or yoga. These practices can help you better manage your mood and even your response. In public places like a workplace, you could always use the restroom and take a moment to calm your nerves and get your mind settled before moving on to your next task. Having a calm mind and body helps reduce stress, allowing you to make logical decisions and continue your daily activities with a sound mind.

Self Care

This is one option that needs to be encouraged and utilised. Find time to engage in activities that bring you peace and a sense of serenity. Engage in whatever hobbies to calm your nerves after a long day. At times, talking to loved ones, getting enough sleep, or just exercising is also what you need to get all that stress out of your system.

Setting Boundaries

You don’t have to stretch yourself by participating in everything; not every activity needs your participation. Learn the habit of saying no to things that will only pile on unnecessary stress. Prioritise things that add to your value and goals. If it doesn’t make you relaxed, if it doesn’t add to you in any way, it’s best to let it go.

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, stress levels exceed our tolerance levels, and we get so overwhelmed that it feels like we can’t do it ourselves. Times like this require you to meet a professional. Therapy, counselling, and medication go a long way in helping you maintain a stable mental situation.

No one starts a day hoping to end it with a lot of pressure and mental unrest, but it happens. Therefore, we need to learn how to navigate these challenges to improve our overall quality of life.

REVOLUTIONIZING CREATIVITY

AI and it’s Notable Role in Content Creation

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Automated Writing

We all know that not everyone is good with words or knows how to express their thoughts and ideas. But with AI, anyone can get their ideas and thoughts, not just penned down, but in an understandable manner for almost anyone who reads it. With the help of an AI, one creates a writing piece for whatever occasion one wishes to address, such as blog posts, essays, copywriting, and all sorts. Putting your thoughts and ideas into written form has become way simpler. A perfect example of an AI for this is the ChatGPT.

Personalised Content Recommendation

Not only does the Artificial Intelligence program help you put your ideas to paper, but its algorithm can analyse user behaviour and preferences and tailor it in an almost perfect way to deliver personalised content. In plain words, AI can take note of your previous search histories or recently visited sites and give you recommendations or alternatives to whatever you are searching for. Imagine going through an e-commerce application to search for a shoe, the AI program gives you recommendations of other stores to go ahead and make your search, as well as close alternatives for that item the program noticed you kept searching for.

Refinement And Editing

Before pushing out the contents and all the writing pieces in our drafts, we must ensure they are perfect. Grammar has to be correct, spelling must be right, and so on. We are humans, and we could miss something, but not AI. AI-driven tools such as Grammarly assist in grammar and style checks, offering content creators a quick and efficient means of refining their works to be more appealing to their audience.

It’s a fast-evolving world. Cutting-edge gadgets are being invented, and equipment to make life much easier for humans is steadily being pushed into the market. Then, we have the ever-impressive invention of artificial intelligence. Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a transformative force, altering our approach to creating and consuming content. This piece will give you insights into how we can use AI programs to make work and life much easier.

Automated Code-Writing

When it’s said that AI programs are multifunctional and have multiple purposes, we don’t mean a few things to help us humans, no. The idea behind it was for the AI programs to keep learning and updating themselves as new knowledge is discovered. Now, just as we have AI programs writing out stories for blogs, letters, copywriting pieces, and the rest, software developers also have a little burden taken off their shoulders, thanks to AI’s ability to write codes from the simple to the even complex ones. AI programs such as Blackbox have given developers more time to be productive and put effort into more projects.

Voice And Audio Content

Of course, the voice and audio contents aren’t left out. Who said you have to use your voice to do a voice-over for your videos or to narrate that story if you don’t want to? From AI-generated voices to virtual voice assistants, programs such as Speechify have AI-generated voices to help you in whatever storytelling form your content creation needs.

AI was invented to keep learning and updating itself, thereby leading to constant evolution, and the more AI continues to evolve, the more its role in content creation expands even more. Such expansion gives content creators more possibilities and efficiencies, and such synergy between human creativity and AI-driven capabilities marks an exciting era for content creation.

Manual Stimulation Dos and Don’ts

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

stimulation or fingering can be an intimate and pleasurable aspect of sexual exploration as it may enhance the physical and emotional bond between lovers. It does, however, need attention, care, and communication, just like any other kind of sexual action. The experience can be more enjoyable and fulfilling for all parties involved if you know the dos and don’ts of fingering, regardless of your expertise level.

Visiting your neighbourhood salon every time you want to engage in a bit of finger action is unnecessary. It merely implies that maintaining good hand cleanliness is essential to enjoying safe and enjoyable fingering. The environment in your vagina is delicate, which is more reason why you should exercise caution when sticking anything in or near it, and this includes your hands as well as your partner’s. To do this, you should moisturise your hands frequently, trim your nails (a short, blunt edge works ideal), maintain good hygiene, and wash your hands before and after sexual activity.

Since vaginal lubrication is essential for effective penetration, fingering can be uncomfortable if the receiving partner is not fully aroused. While every person (and every situation) is unique, it is best to give the vaginas 20 to 45 minutes to reach full arousal. To arouse your spouse, try kissing, caressing their breasts, touching their inner thighs, or doing anything else that helps them feel aroused before you insert your finger.

Tips For Pleasurable Play

Before penetration, break out your DJ-ing skills and take two fingers (your index and middle) and flatten them like a DJ would on a turntable. Then, gently use your fingers to rub your partner’s clitoris in circular motions, increasing speed and intensity gradually.

Penetration should start when your partner has been turned on, lubricated appropriately, and has had their clitoris pleasantly massaged. Insert it slowly, starting with a single finger, into their vagina. The index or middle finger is the most excellent option, but feel free to use whichever finger you (and your partner) feel most comfortable with. To tease your lover, glide in and out while increasing in speed. You can move on to two fingers if you notice that your partner is fully ready for it. Make use of your index and middle finger to stroke your partner’s anterior vaginal wall, which is also the same as the front wall of the vagina.

Pay more attention to the clit while fingering. It is essential to build your partner’s pleasure.

Long nails could injure you or your partner, so you need to trim and clean your nails before you get into action.

Fingering fast like an automatic drill isn’t good or pleasurable. It is advisable to take your time and take things slow.

You should end it if it continues for longer than ten minutes. Better still, ask whether she’s ready for sex, get down there with your tongue, or call it a night.

Avoid pushing your finger in too far, as if you are reaching for her stomach unless you are trying to pluck out her large intestine.

CONCLUSION

When fingering, take your time and don’t rush the process. Hurrying might result in discomfort or lost possibilities for enjoyment. Rather, concentrate on savouring the moment and discovering each other’s bodies at a speed that suits you both.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

Challengers

By the time Luca Guadagnino’s erotically charged tennis film Challengers reaches its breathless, sweaty, pulse-pounding and deeply satisfying climax, you’ll be breathless. Rarely is a film so sensorially captivating, every element of cinema, including script, cinematography, editing, score and performance blending together to create such a fizzy, frenzied brew, a chemical reaction of rage and lust sizzling with bubbling ferocity.

Challengers  is a movie about bodies: sexy, strong, scarred bodies; bodies in glorious motion, crumpling under force, and drawn together over space and time, again and again. During a hard-fought match at a tournament, our players – which include the two men on the court and one woman, spectating on the sidelines – engage in body talk, communicating with gestures, glances, grunts and gasps, expressing what’s been left unsaid between them.

It’s the ultimate example of the concept that tennis isn’t just hitting a ball; it’s a relationship. This bit of wisdom was espoused by teen tennis phenom Tashi Duncan (Zendaya) 13 years prior to this match; now, she watches this relationship unfold as two men smash the ball back and forth in front of her. They are her husband, Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), and her ex, Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor). Art is a honed, sculpted god, taped, gelled and optimized under Tashi’s watchful eye; Patrick is a grungy tennis hobo, sleeping in his car, scamming sandwiches off sympathetic officials, and places to crash on Tinder. Over the course of each set, we’ll come to understand the complex relationship between this trio.

The script is the debut of playwright and novelist Justin Kuritzkes, who happens to be married to Celine Song, Oscar-nominated this year for her debut film, Past Lives, which also features a woman caught between two men, weighing passionate connection against pragmatic concerns. Where Song’s film was about the power and beauty of silence and patience, Kuritzkes’ script is hyperactive, and the characters are smart, cutting, and acerbic, simultaneously deeply romantic and cynical. On a structural level, the screenplay can’t stop moving either. The central tennis match serves as a framing device for a series of flashbacks, starting with the

characters’ summer before college and covering every angst-ridden tangle in between.

But it’s Guadagnino’s filmmaking that elevates the material to truly transcendent heights. The film is shot with crisp, epic clarity by cinematographer Sayombhu Mukdeeprom, whose camera continually draws triangles between our players, and collaborates brilliantly with editor Marco Costa, who cuts in time with a throbbing techno score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross.

The match starts with extreme wide shots, mannered and removed, before the camera swoops in on Tashi as the beat drops, zeroing in on the woman for whom these men have always been competing. But as we come back to the match, again and again, the camera gets closer to Art and Patrick, becoming erratic and experimental. By the end, we’re seeing shots from the point of view of the players, the court and even the ball, wildly flying back and forth across the net, batted around like every person in this triangle has been by the others at some point.

It’s through this tennis metaphor that Kuritzkes and Guadagnino explore the way power, desire and ambition are woven throughout intimate relationships in a fetishistic way. The ruthlessly professional Tashi seems to get off on psychologically and sexually controlling Art and Patrick, which the chaotic Patrick resists and to which Art happily submits. Their marriage is one of his surrender to her wishes as an act of pure love and devotion, even though she is helplessly drawn to Patrick’s dancing, destructive flame. The sexually omnivorous and opportunistic Patrick, for all his indecision, sees the situation clearly, but then again, they all seem to. They just want what they want.

Guadagnino is one of our greatest auteurs of desire, especially the forbidden kind, and Challengers is a deeply erotic and sexy movie even though it doesn’t have all that much sex. Like everything else – conversation, arguments, catharsis – the sex is subsumed into tennis. Still, it is an incredibly lusty film, and it’s rare to enjoy this kind of explosive screen chemistry among all three performers.

Faist, who comes from theatre and dance, moves with beautiful intention, and Mukdeeprom’s camera regards his every angle with fascination. In contrast, O’Connor embodies the kind of grimy and utterly dangerous sexuality that many find simultaneously infuriating and irresistible. Zendaya is as enthrallingly intelligent, mysterious and unpredictable as she has ever been, and it’s easily her best performance.

Challengers is the kind of sexy, engrossing somewhat twisted romance we don’t see enough of these days, a thrilling film, thrillingly rendered in its layered storytelling expressed in the purest cinematic form. Take advantage while you can.

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WATCH OF THE WEEK

In a sea of mediocre family melodramas and slightly stale satires, Ripley rises to the top with style. This new adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s famed novel The Talented Mr. Ripley takes the familiar story in an entirely different direction from other versions. No, this series doesn’t have the sun-soaked sex appeal of ’60s Alain Delon or ‘90s Jude Law, but it’s not terribly interested in that. Rather than focus on lavish European locales or the beautiful people who populate them, the show puts all of its attention on its titular con-man.

The story that Ripley tells is probably one you know already, if not from prior adaptations, then from its recent quasi-revival in Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn. Tom Ripley (Andrew Scott) is a skilled grifter in New York City, but his luck is on the verge of running out courtesy of the IRS. Luckily, he’s about to come into some money—the prodigal son of a shipbuilding magnate, Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn), has been gallivanting off in Italy for far too long, and the family needs one of his friends to encourage him to come home. It’s no matter that Tom is no more than a passing acquaintance for Dickie, since this kind of fake-it-tillyou-make-it situation is his expertise. So Tom heads to the small coastal town of Atrani, where he finds the dilettante Dickie and his sortof-girlfriend Marge (Dakota Fanning). He inevitably covets Dickie’s life more and more, and before long he passes a point of no return in his quest to live large.

Steve Zaillian ( writer of Schindler’s List, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, and The Irishman) crafts an intricate, addictive noir around this premise. Ripley feels old-fashioned, but that’s hardly a bad thing. Across eight episodes, the series weaves a complex web out of its protagonist’s exploits. Sometimes it’s slow going, working as a mystery that’s willing to lay out its puzzle pieces before putting them together, but it’s all a means to a

RIPLEY

gratifying end. You’re never quite sure how Ripley is going to get away with it, just that he will— probably.

The noir feel of Ripley is also due in large part to the exquisite black and white cinematography of Robert Elswit. He makes the whitewashed stone passages of coastal Atrani and the imposing marble statues of Rome feel like the sewers of The Third Man’s postwar Vienna. There may not be an exciting chase scene

or shootout anywhere in this series, but the visuals are stark and dramatic enough to create the same effect.

Scott makes for quite the intriguing leading man on his own. It’s a far cry from his sympathetic turn in last year’s All of Us Strangers, with the actor putting his chameleonic skill to use as the frequently skin-shedding Ripley. He projects confidence across all of his scams; as he comes under suspicion, every reply is easy. Even when he puts his foot in it, Scott’s Ripley is always able to recover. He walks a precarious tightrope with Marge and Dickie, and his interactions with the former are always delightfully prickly. It’s a tricky, fascinating thing to play a character that puts everyone on edge (including the viewer) while still remaining magnetic and compelling, but Scott pulls it off at every turn.

The series is unlike anything else on TV right now, from its stunning cinematography to its distinctive character work to its keen genre take on a well-known story. It’s a slow burn that embraces a bygone noir sensibility, and it’s all the better for it. Ripley is one of the more original adaptations you’ll see this year, and it’s certainly one of the best shows that Netflix has to offer.

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