VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
IJEOMA Ubosi’s FROM FASHION TO REAL ESTATE
Remarkable Entrepreneurial Journey
VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
CONTENTS
EDITOR’S NOTE
12
Beauty Resolutions
13
Mindful Eating During the Holidays
14
Holographic Performances
15
Basel, Switzerland
BEAUTY
Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
BON APPÉTIT
I
jeoma Ubosi’s love for fashion started at a young age when she was on summer holidays while studying Pharmacy at the University of Bath. She travelled to America, stumbled upon a designer outlet, and started buying shirts from there and selling them in London. When she moved back in 1997, Pharmacy wasn’t regulated as it is now; therefore, it wasn’t fulfilling, so she decided to continue her business. Although she was doing very well in her business, she had always wanted to return to Pharmacy. However, in 1997, the conversion course was at the University of Jos. Having just married, she didn’t want to leave her husband for eight weeks, so she opted out. However, in 2019, she eventually took the course in Abuja and came out top of her class. She intends to embrace Pharmacy in her fifties, a journey she has begun, but for now, Kontessa, the clothing and retail business, gives her joy. Ubosi believes in different sources of income, so she also has a real estate business, which a friend introduced her to. You can read her intriguing story on pages 8 through 10.
TECH TALK
TRAVEL
04-05 Cashmere Care 101
Pampering Your Precious Knits For Long-Lasting Luxury
FASHION
07
16
REVIEW
New Year, New Glow
Unveiling a New Dimension of Entertainment
A Tapestry of Culture and Charm Unveiled
The 7 Best Movies I Saw This Year
The Future of Sex Tech
DOWNTOWN Innovations Redefining CONFIDENTIAL Intimacy And Pleasure Fashion to Real Estate, Ijeoma 8-11 From Ubosi’s Remarkable
COVER
11
Entrepreneurial Journey
Colour Trends
GIFT GUIDE
Colours To Be On The Look Out For In 2024
Our food page, Bon Appetit, discusses mindful eating this festive season. That’s on page 13. Do you have any beauty New Year resolutions? Our Beauty page discusses some resolutions you could make for better skin from the inside out. See page 12.
WHAT YOU SAID VOL 3 NO. 52 • CHRISTMAS EDITION 2023
Don’t forget our pages are interactive now. Click on any page title on page 3 to go to that page. Here’s wishing all our dear readers a Happy New Year. Until next week, enjoy your read.
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.
ADENIKE
INNOVATIVE FLAIR
Impact on Children’s Fashion
@mimi.the.designer
Onah
@onahluciaa
+2349088352246
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.
@thelizzyadams
AUSTYN OGANNAH
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Editor-at-Large: Danielle Loth Online Editor: Ntianu Obiora Writer: BY Johnson Chukwueke Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’ Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’
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.
@dark.orey
Absofrigginglutely true
www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
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FASHION
CASHMERE CARE 101 Pampering Your Precious Knits For Long-Lasting Luxury BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
T
here’s never been a better moment to spoil your beloved cashmere knitwear than as the chilly hug of Harmattan season descends. To make sure they remain stylish and comfortable for many seasons to come, these opulently soft clothes need a little more care. Here are six easy yet efficient techniques to take excellent care of and maintain the quality of your priceless knits.
1
GENTLE HAND WASHING Bid farewell to strong cleaning agents and vigorous washing cycles. A soft touch is what cashmere needs. If you want your knits to last as long as possible, hand wash them with a gentle detergent. All you have to do is soak your clothing in cold water, stir it around a little, then add a little detergent. Rinse well, then squeeze out any remaining water without wringing. This tender care will preserve your cashmere’s inherent softness.
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STORAGE WISDOM When it comes to storage, treat your cashmere like royalty. Avoid hangers that can stretch the delicate fibres; instead, fold your clothes neatly and put them in breathable cotton bags to prevent them from being stretched. Not only can cedar balls or sachets keep moths away, but they will also give your cashmere an added degree of luxury by gently diffusing a natural scent throughout.
VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
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FASHION
3
BEWARE OF PILLING The bane of all knits is pilling, but fortunately, there is a solution. To get rid of any annoying pills, get a good cashmere comb and run it gently through the cloth. Maintaining this approach regularly will preserve your cashmere in immaculate condition and guarantee that each wear feels as opulent as the first.
4
5
AVOID DIRECT SUNLIGHT Sunlight doesn’t do your cashmere treasures any good, even if it’s nature’s disinfectant. The beautiful colours can fade, and the fibres can get weaker after prolonged exposure to sunlight. To keep your clothes’ colour vibrancy, choose covered spots to dry them and store them away from intense sunshine.
COLD WATER IS KEY Even when washing, cashmere likes to be in a cool environment. To avoid putting undue strain on the fibres, use cold water. Loss of suppleness and shrinking can result from using hot water. You’re assisting your cashmere in keeping its luxurious texture and form by embracing the chill.
6
LOVE YOUR LINT ROLLER Lint and loose fibres can be drawn to cashmere. To preserve that smooth appearance and sweep away any unwanted material, keep a lint roller close at hand. To keep your cashmere looking as good as new, give it a quick onceover before wearing it.
CONCLUSION If you follow these easy yet efficient care instructions, your cashmere collection will remain opulent and incredibly soft throughout this harmattan season. Accept that these unique knits are delicate, and they will repay you with timeless elegance and warmth for the duration of the cold season and beyond.
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A B C
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
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DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL
THE FUTURE OF SEX TECH
Innovations Redefining Intimacy And Pleasure
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
echnology is changing every part of our lives, including our intimate TInnovations experiences, which is unsurprising in a world of constant change. transforming how we connect and expanding the boundaries of pleasure are emerging from the crossroads of intimacy and technology. Let’s explore some groundbreaking innovations that are changing the definition of pleasure and intimacy.
4. SMART KINK TECH Smart kink tech is expanding the parameters of pleasure for individuals with daring desires. Technology is satisfying a wide variety of needs, from programmable, customisable sex toys to cutting-edge bondage equipment with integrated sensors. In addition to improving physical pleasure, these devices offer a new degree of control and exploration.
VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) 1.EXPERIENCES Imagine entering a whole new realm where imaginations are unlocked, and you can connect with your spouse in ways you’ve never been able to before. Virtual reality is expanding beyond games and entering the intimate space. Virtual reality (VR) experiences provide long-distance relationships a new dimension by allowing partners to share realistic, lifelike moments regardless of physical distance.
FEEDBACK SUITS 5.HAPTIC
Even when you’re far away, you can feel the touch. Intimacy is reaching a new tactile level with haptic feedback suits. Through the use of carefully positioned sensors, these full-body suits imitate touch, enabling users to experience their partner’s caress, kiss, or embrace. Beyond conventional means of communication, it’s an immersive experience.
2. TELEDILDONICS Although the name may sound futuristic, teledildonics is here, altering how we enjoy pleasure from a distance. These sophisticated sex toys include sensors and may be operated online. By syncing their gadgets and feeling each other’s touch in real-time, partners may share intimate moments even when they are far apart.
QUANTUM 6.ENTANGLEMENT Quantum entanglement is causing a stir in the exceptional domain. The idea, which is still in the theoretical stages, is to build an unbreakable connection between two particles—that is, two individuals—by applying the rules of quantum physics. It’s a futuristic notion that suggests close communication will not be restricted by time or location.
AI-POWERED APPS 3.INTIMACY
Artificial intelligence is gaining traction in the intimate domain and is not only useful for intricate computations. Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven applications can recognise and adjust to their users’ preferences, offer tailored recommendations, and even mimic dialogues to improve emotional bonding. These apps guide users through intimacy challenges, much like virtual love counsellors.
CONCLUSION
These are only the beginning of the changes that await us as we enter this new era of intimacy and pleasure. Future advancements are expected to be even more intriguing and to further alter our relationship with ourselves and our partners. Seize the opportunity, as the terrain of intimacy is changing, and the journey will undoubtedly be exciting.
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
COVER
FROM FASHION TO REAL ESTATE
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
Ijeoma Ubosi’s
Remarkable Entrepreneurial Journey
I
n the fast-paced world of fashion entrepreneurship, where style and innovation meet, Nigerian visionaries are making their marks on the international scene. Likewise, the Nigerian fashion retailing sector has become a haven for forward-thinking people determined to break through barriers and leave their imprint on the industry. Equipped with inventiveness and grit, these entrepreneurs are moulding the fashion landscape and working to bring Nigerian fashion to a global audience. Ijeoma Ubosi, a seasoned businesswoman, started her entrepreneurial journey 24 years ago, and ever since then, she has made a name for herself in the cutthroat fashion industry. From modest beginnings in the trunk of her car, Kontessa has grown into a diverse empire. In addition to jewellery, shoes, and clothing, Ubosi has dabbled in the exciting real estate field, demonstrating her adaptability and business acumen. Her journey is a monument to ingenuity and tenacity, giving her a unique position in the entrepreneur space and a lasting impact on the fashion industry. In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, Ijeoma Ubosi talks about the complexities of her remarkable career. From her venture into the fashion industry to her most recent accomplishments in real estate, Ubosi offers insights into the obstacles she overcame, the impact she seeks to make, and the always-changing world of entrepreneurship.
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COVER Ijeoma, your journey from Pharmacy to fashion is fascinating. What pivotal moment made you shift gears and dive into the fashion industry? I have always been interested in fashion from a young age, and it started during one of my summer holidays while studying Pharmacy at the University of Bath. I travelled to America, stumbled upon a designer outlet, and started buying shirts from there and selling them in London. And so my retail journey started. I moved back to Nigeria in 1997. At the time, Pharmacy practice wasn’t as well regulated as it is now; therefore, it was not as fulfilling for me, so I decided to continue my business. Also, as a foreigntrained Pharmacy graduate, I had to go for a conversion course at a university in Nigeria to be able to practice here, which, in 1997, was held at the University of Jos. Having just moved back and gotten married, I didn’t want to travel far from home for eight weeks. By the time the program was offered at the University of Lagos, I was doing very well in my business and didn’t feel inclined to do it. But indeed, it had always been my desire to return to Pharmacy, and so in 2019, I went back to school in Abuja for close to three months to qualify to practice as a pharmacist 25 years after graduating. I must say it is one of the hardest things I’ve had to do, but with hard work and God’s grace, I came out top of the class despite being the oldest student. This is in line with my life goal to embrace the Pharmacy profession once I’m in my fifties, and I have started that journey, so watch this space.
the plaza doing different specialities such as: - Nara Camicie: Italian franchise for retail sales of blouses and shirts for both men and women - Arsenal Ventures: Apparel for fashion conscious women - Luggage: TUMI brand of luggage and accessories - Kontessa kids: shoes and accessories for children We also have stores in Ikeja and Abuja. I am quick to analyse each of the ventures I’ve gone into and make critical decisions without sentiment. Each of my businesses should be able to support themselves and pay their bills; I have put structures in place to keep each brand strong and relevant. Most importantly, I have the most committed and dedicated staff that take the business seriously and treat it like their own.
“I have always been interested in fashion from a young age, and it started during one of my summer holidays while studying Pharmacy at the University of Bath. ”
The name “Kontessa” is unique and memorable. Can you share the story behind how you came up with the name for your fashion retail store? It was my husband Chris and I mulling over different names, and he came up with the name; I liked it, and that was it. I was predominately dealing with women’s fashion at the time, and, in Italian, a Contessa is a woman of high rank and we wanted all of our clients to feel important and confident when shopping with us. We changed the C to a K to own it and stand out. Building a fashion empire requires a strong brand identity. How did you define the essence and personality of Kontessa, and how has it evolved over the years? Consistency and the desire to satisfy your clients’ needs. We have been able to retain our customers from 1997 when we started till date. They have been on the journey with us from inception and have grown with us, with many more joining over the years. The ability to always deliver what your customers want at the right price and in a comfortable environment has helped build the brand. We pride ourselves in our customer service as we go above and beyond to ensure that our clientele enjoy their purchases from us. The journey from a mobile shop to a multi-branch retail store is inspiring. What pivotal decisions or strategies do you credit for the substantial growth of Kontessa over the years? I started with a mobile store in a car when I moved back, going from one establishment to another, building my clientele and then moving on to pop-up events in my home. In 1999, having grown my client base, I decided to open a store in a mall in Victoria Island. With help from my Dad and husband, who each paid one year’s rent, my store opened in 2000, and within three months, the business had grown exponentially. The business grew, and by the time I moved to a stand-alone building in 2012 at No 13 Agoro Odiyan Street Victoria Island, I had six stores in
Diversifying into fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) after attending Lagos Business School is a strategic move. What insights did you gain from the course that influenced this decision, and how did it impact your business? I encourage every entrepreneur to attend the Owner Manager Program (OMP) at Lagos Business School. You learn a lot about putting structure into your business, paying attention to different aspects, delegating, and giving your staff the courage to speak up and voice their opinion. The networking opportunity is tremendous as I got to engage with 48 other business owners in different fields and even collaborate with a few of them. My foray into FMCG wasn’t pleasant, and I pulled out of it after three years as it was timeconsuming and not as fulfilling to me as my core businesses were, so I decided to refocus on them. The good thing was that I was able to pick myself up and move on, using my experiences to help in my other businesses. How are you able to manage Kontessa, Nara and others, which deal with fashion along with Motivo and Admugo, which are different sectors? Motivo is involved in sourcing and supplying corporate gifts and seasonal ensembles for corporates and individuals, while Admugo deals with 18ct gold and diamond jewellery retail. I got into both businesses quite by interest. I was in Milan attending a shoe exhibition, and one of my partners introduced me to a jewellery designer, and we started working together. In Milan, my branding consultant took me to a gifts fair to show me ideas of what he was proposing to my company. I then realised it was a good business opportunity for me, so I took time out to study both businesses, and after a year or so, I started, and they have both grown and done very well to the glory of God. Of course, with the dedicated and welltrained staff I have, they are able to run the businesses very effectively.
Reflecting on your early days, what was the most unexpected challenge you faced as an entrepreneur, and how did you navigate through it? My most unexpected challenge came in the early 2000s when the government placed a sudden ban on the importation of textiles, and I had a consignment of about 1000 Nara Camicie shirts confiscated by customs. Another challenge happened when I was still operating from home; I was expecting our first child then and wasn’t making any business trips. I had goods sent to me from New York, and I’m still waiting twenty-four years later. The only compensation I received was based on the weight of the cargo, not on the value of the shipment. With each challenge, I was able to pick myself up and move on. I encounter challenges on a day-to-day basis, from flood damage to currency fluctuation and delinquent clients pilfering, but I see every obstacle as a stepping stone. I learn from them and put things in place to minimise future occurrences. Balancing family life and a thriving business is no small feat. How do you maintain that balance, and what advice do you have for other entrepreneurs with similar challenges? I’m blessed to have a very understanding husband who has encouraged me to soar and fly high, so that has made things easier to manage. I also have a good team at work and a great support system at home, so I have been able to maintain a good balance. I enjoy a very close relationship with each of my three children, and I’m always there for them and my immediate family. I will say don’t be afraid to ask for help, create a good support system, delegate responsibilities where possible and take time off to exhale. Bear in mind that family is your most important asset. Kontessa caters to both medium and high-end markets. How do you balance offering luxury items and maintaining accessibility for a broader customer base? It’s the same concept as a department store carrying multiple brands. We are able to serve different cadre of customers while maintaining an enhanced customer experience and a high quality of products irrespective of price point. Social media plays a significant role in the fashion industry today. How has Kontessa leveraged digital platforms to connect with customers and stay relevant online? That is a work in progress for us. We have a team responsible for our content, and our following is building slowly but surely. We do make sales daily through our social media posts, such as Instagram, so it’s encouraging as we are active. Social media is here to stay, so we’re taking advantage of the opportunity it offers to get exposure to new and different clients, advertise at a low cost and continue strengthening the brand. It has its downsides, but we’re here to exploit the upside. A good percentage of our customers are in the older age bracket as well and haven’t quite embraced online shopping and social media, so we are intentional about building our clientele in the younger age bracket.
“Social media is here to stay, so we’re taking advantage of the opportunity it offers to get exposure to new and different clients, advertise at a low cost and continue strengthening the brand.”
As Kontessa grows, what legacy do you hope to leave in the Nigerian fashion industry, and how do you see the brand evolving in the future? I want Kontessa to exist beyond my lifetime, such that its values, vision and missions carry on, increasing its clientele base and enhancing customer experiences. I would like it to be seen as the first option and onestop multi-department store for ladies, men’s shoes, travel luggage, and much more. I also want young budding entrepreneurs to see that hard work pays; you can start small, set your goals, clearly define your mission, work hard towards it, grow organically, and see your business blossom.
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
COVER Sustainability is increasingly becoming a focal point in the fashion industry. How does Kontessa approach sustainability, and what steps have you taken to make your brand more environmentally conscious? Whatever part of the supply chain that we can control, we do what we can to be more environmentally conscious. We actively prioritise sustainability by selecting suppliers with a small carbon footprint, ensuring their environmental goals align with ours. We have also transitioned to using recyclable and biodegradable bags to pack our customers’ orders. In our day-to-day work, we’ve adopted a paperless approach in the office through the increased use of emails and digital invoices. These initiatives are central to our effort to reduce our environmental footprint. Technology has transformed the retail landscape. How has Kontessa embraced technological advancements to enhance the customer experience and streamline operations? We are deploying technology across several aspects of our business. Our payment systems are constantly being enhanced, as are our inventory management systems, particularly as we have multiple stores. We also do a lot of customer-centric marketing based on the analytics we obtain from our clients. What we do, for instance, in Abuja is different from Lagos. Indeed, from our data, our clients in Ikeja have different tastes than those in Victoria Island, Lagos. Indeed, you can’t escape embracing technology in the space in which we operate. You recently ventured into the real estate business; could you share the story of what motivated you to start a career in real estate, and when did you decide to take the plunge? I started this about four years ago through a close friend who is big in the real estate and dredging space. He kept on encouraging me to start with a piece of land I had acquired about 20 years ago when I saw how the area had fully developed. I built that successfully and made a healthy profit, so I decided to delve more into it, and today, I have a few more projects under my belt. We actually have some properties for sale at the moment. It’s tough with the unpredictable exchange rates, the proliferation of similar properties and daily rising costs, so profits are now reduced. To combat this, we’ve adopted strategies that enable us to sell quickly and move on to the next project. We also differentiate ourselves by our innovative designs, workmanship, and highquality materials.
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
COLOUR TRENDS
DÉCOR
Colours to be on The Look Out For in 2024
BY IJEOMA EZEANYIKA
rom the findings of colour trend forecasters, life will F be bolder in 2024, as colour experts predict that people will be much more adventurous with their colour choices. Of course, neutral colours will never go out of style and are warming up, with buttery and blush tones rising in popularity. Every expert agrees that colour will be more personal than ever in the coming years. Here are some of the colours set to dominate 2024.
GLORIOUS GREENS Greens aren’t going anywhere! It is a natureinspired hue that evokes a soothing quality most people find relaxing. This fresh colour with a nurturing sense is predicted to make a splash in the upcoming year. However, darker shades of green will take favour over light and pastel tones. To be more particular, olive green will have its moment.
RETURNING BROWNS
NEVER FADING BLUES Having an innate connection to the natural world, blue is one of those colours that will never lose popularity. It is a feel-good colour that perfectly resonates with tranquillity and serenity, and in 2024, there will be more spaces that reflect these moods. Blues will have a significant moment in 2024, and livelier shades of blue like teal and aqua will pop up everywhere.
The return of the seventies has been influencing interior trends, and the brown colour is one of those things that has returned. There is a shift from grey to more dramatic shades like brown, and this warm, earth-based colour reinforces a connection to nature. The brown colour is both an exciting and complex shade to work with. Looking like part chocolate and part woodland with a dash of purple grape, an unexpected richness reveals itself in different ways. It creates a cocooning field for rooms facing the north, while in brighter spaces, it allows the opportunity to layer in other shades of brown for more impact. You’ll see brown everywhere, from mushroom brown to taupe, mocha, and espresso.
ENTHRALLING PURPLES Purple is a colour that can feel intimidating to work with, but it helps to motivate people to stand out and experiment more with colour. Being an excellent companion to pink, blue, and green, purple will also rise in popularity this coming year. Depending on the shade of purple you use, it can add depth or vibrancy.
WARM WHITES Whites with warm undertones are predicted to still wane in popularity in the coming year. These shades of white bring sophistication and depth to a space while keeping it bright and neutral.
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BEAUTY
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
Beauty Resolutions New Year, New Glow BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
A
s we say goodbye to another year, it’s time to welcome the new beginning that a new year offers. And there’s no better way to start 2024 than by emphasising self-care and highlighting our inner beauty. With open arms and a beautiful glow, welcome the new year with a few straightforward yet powerful beauty resolutions. These resolutions are doable actions to help you feel and look your best rather than radical makeovers or unreachable objectives. Let’s start with six simple beauty resolutions that will keep you looking radiant all year in 2024.
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. CLEAN BEAUTY CHOICES
Choose sustainable and clean products to uplift your beauty routine. It’s critical to broaden our awareness to include the products we consume as we get more environmentally conscious. Opt for cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and chemicalfree beauty products. Your skin will appreciate the sensitive care you give it, in addition to the fact that you are helping the environment.
1
. HYDRATION IS KEY
5
Put hydration first as you embark on your beauty journey. You can achieve a glowing complexion by drinking water, which is not just an elixir for survival. Try drinking more water every day on a mindful basis. This practice improves general wellbeing in addition to its positive effects on your skin. Staying hydrated can help you bid goodbye to dull skin and welcome a naturally beautiful glow.
. MINDFUL MAKEUP REMOVAL
The importance of taking off your makeup before bed should never be understated. Make sure to remove all makeup traces thoroughly so that your skin can breathe and heal overnight. Choose a mild cleanser appropriate for your skin type to prevent unwanted irritation. By making this commitment, you’ll stop breakouts and encourage a complexion that looks beautiful from the inside out.
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. SKINCARE CONSISTENCY
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. BEAUTY SLEEP IS REAL
In the realm of skincare, consistency is paramount. Create a regimen that suits your skin type and follow it religiously. Consistency will produce apparent benefits whether you’re cleansing, toning, moisturising, or applying specific treatments. Maintaining your skin can help you easily attain the desired “litfrom-within” appearance.
They don’t call it “beauty sleep” for nothing. To promote skin and body regeneration, make sure you get adequate sleep every night. Face dullness, dark under the eyes, and early ageing can all be caused by sleep deprivation. Set a high priority on getting enough rest so that your skin is rejuvenated and ready to take on the day. The greatest thing you can do for yourself is invest in beauty sleep.
3
. SUNSCREEN EVERY DAY
Include using sunscreen in your everyday routine without exception. You should always wear sunscreen; it’s not only for beach days. Put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from damaging UV rays. This simple step lowers your risk of developing skin cancer and protects your skin from premature ageing. Let your skin reward you as you responsibly embrace the sun.
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CONCLUSION If you want to brighten your appearance for the new year, these six beauty resolutions provide a path to a more radiant you. Remember that the secret is to enjoy the journey, stay consistent, and keep things simple. Accept these goals and make 2024 the year you radiate confidence and inner beauty, shining brightly from the inside out. Cheers to a new year full of healthy habits, self-love, and a glow that brings out the best in you.
VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
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BON APPÉTIT
Mindful Eating During the Holidays Balancing Indulgence And Nutrition
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
T
he holiday season is upon us. This season, elaborate dinners and delicious treats are frequently the focal point of family get-togethers. While savouring these seasonal treats is a fun part of the occasion, balancing enjoyment and maintaining a mindful approach to our eating habits is important. This article provides six simple guidelines to help you enjoy the New Year feast without straying from your mindful eating practice.
1. SAVOUR EACH BITE Amidst the festivities, take a moment to enjoy the tastes and textures of your cuisine. You can engage your senses and improve your dining experience by taking your time and enjoying every bite of food. With this conscious approach, you can avoid overindulging and improve your digestion at the same time.
2. PORTION CONTROL Portion control is essential because holiday feasts frequently include various delicious dishes. Start with little servings of your favourites rather than heaping your dish sky-high. You can eat a range of foods without going overboard in this way. Your body will appreciate the balanced approach if you pay attention to its hunger cues and are aware of them.
5. BE MINDFUL OF EMOTIONAL EATING
3. STAY HYDRATED Amidst the celebratory food and drinks, remember the importance of staying hydrated. Drinking water is essential for digestion and helps differentiate between thirst and hunger. Try to have a glass of water before meals, and ensure you stay hydrated all day. This easy practice helps with mindful eating by helping you stay aware of your body’s needs.
Many emotions can be evoked over the holiday season, and food becomes a coping mechanism for some people. Watch out for emotional cues that could cause you to overindulge in eating. When stress or boredom makes you go for food, take a moment to evaluate your feelings. Participate in joyful activities or establish connections with loved ones to improve your overall well-being.
6. PLAN AHEAD Consider organising your meals and snacks for the day before attending holiday parties. By taking the initiative, you can avoid making snap decisions and make well-informed choices. Make sure there’s a nourishing alternative available by bringing a healthy dish to share. You can handle holiday events with awareness and strike a balance between fun and dietary needs if you prepare ahead of time.
4. CHOOSE NUTRIENTRICH OPTIONS Holiday tables are frequently decorated with rich confections, but it’s important to have nutrient-dense foods available as well. Lean proteins, colourful fruits, and veggies will help you balance your excesses. These options supply vital vitamins and minerals and enhance feelings of fullness, lessening the desire to overindulge in less healthful foods.
CONCLUSION Finding a balance between indulgence and nutrition is the goal of mindful eating during the holidays. You can enjoy the holidays without sacrificing your health if you plan ahead, appreciate every bite, exercise portion control, drink enough water, select nutrient-rich foods, and be aware of emotional eating. Accept these thoughtful practices, and make the holidays a season of happiness, family time, and well-balanced eating.
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TECH TALK
HOLOGRAPHIC PERFORMANCES Unveiling A New Dimension of Entertainment BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
t’s no news that the advancement of technology has its Iindustry effects on every area of society, and the entertainment is not left behind.
In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, a revolution takes centre stage, and one sensational innovation that has captured the imagination of artists and audiences alike is holographic performances. Breaking the boundaries of live shows, holographic technology has brought in a new era for entertainment, allowing legendary artists to grace the stage once more, offering audiences an audiovisual experience that can be considered out of this world. A few things that holographic technology offers to audiences include:
Reviving Legends: A Resonance of Nostalgia Holographic performances have become a means of resurrecting music icons who have left their ever-green mark on the industry. From Tupac Shakur’s virtual appearance at Coachella to the holographic presentation of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson, these posthumous performances allow fans to relive the magic these beloved artists have created in a surreal and emotionally charged manner.
Environmental Impact: Reducing the Carbon Footprint As the music industry struggles with sustainability concerns, holographic performances present a smoother alternative. By minimising the need for extensive travel and elaborate stage setups, holographic shows reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional touring, aligning with the industry’s growing commitment to environmental consciousness. This initiative would also be good for the artists, reducing the stress of trips, having their body clocks constantly readjusted, and avoiding such disadvantages.
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Technological Wonders: The Science Behind The Magic To bring such a big idea into reality, cutting-edge technology that goes beyond typical depictions has to be utilised and deployed. Advanced 3D projectors, laser beams, and intricate light displays combine to create holographic illusions seamlessly blending with live music. Innovations such as volumetric displays and motion-capture technology make it even more realistic, creating a visual spectacle from holographic performances.
Challenges And Controversies
As much as such ideas are being brought to reality to entertain the masses and give them what they have missed, there’s no doubt that such an initiative would spark lots of controversies and backlash. We live in a world where everything is questioned and this is definitely one to get people talking. Questions surrounding the ethics of resurrecting deceased artists, concerns about potentially replacing living musicians, and how authentic such concerts would be regarding the audience’s experience.
Holographic performances represent a massive change in how things are run in the music and entertainment industries. Although many would accept it, many would also oppose it. Nonetheless, artists and technologists are collaborating to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Holographic shows are likely to become an integral part of the music world, and they will captivate audiences and shape the future of live entertainment.
VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
TRAVEL
BASEL, SWITZERLAND W
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
A Tapestry of Culture and Charm Unveiled Basel Minster: A Gothic Marvel
hen listing out several underrated travel destinations, one honourable mention would definitely be Switzerland. The country and what it offers aren’t discussed enough, so this travel guide will share a glimpse of what you are missing out on. Nestled along the banks of the majestic Rhine River is Basel, a city known as Switzerland’s oldest, weaves its rich history and vibrant culture together. Boasting almost 40 museums in its location, Basel is the city with the highest density of museums in the country. This particular city captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, picturesque landscape, and large historic market square. Here is a journey through some of the must-visit tourist sites in this enchanting Swiss city.
Basel Zoo: A World of Wildlife Basel Art Museum (Fondation Beyeler): Modern Elegance
Dominating the skyline, the Basel Minster is a breathtaking Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can climb the towers for panoramic views of the Basel and the Rhine River, immersing themselves in the historic charm of this architectural masterpiece.
Kunstmuseum Basel: Art Enthusiast’s Haven
Basel Zoo, one of the oldest in Switzerland, is a haven for nature lovers. Home to over 6,000 animals, including endangered species, the zoo offers a captivating journey through diverse ecosystems. The Masoala Rainforest Hall, replicating Madagascar’s tropical environment, is a highlight that immerses visitors in a lush, vibrant world.
Tinguely Fountain: A Whimsical Water Ballet
Set amid scenic gardens, the Fondation Beyeler showcases a stunning modern and contemporary art collection. The museum’s minimalist architecture, designed by Renzo Piano, serves as an elegant backdrop for works by artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Giacometti.
Basel Historical Museum: Time Travel Through The Ages Renowned as Switzerland’s oldest public art collection, the Kunstmuseum Basel houses an impressive array of European art, from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. With pieces by masters such as Holbein, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh, the museum is a cultural gem that invites art enthusiasts to explore centuries of artistic expression.
Rhine River Promenade: Serenity by The Water Strolling along the Rhine River Promenade is a serene and picturesque experience. Locals and tourists enjoy the leisurely pace, charming cafes, and the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing waters during the summer months. The bridges spanning the river add to the city’s romantic ambience.
Located on Theaterplatz, the Tinguely Fountain is a kinetic masterpiece created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. The playful and interactive fountain features whimsical mechanical sculptures that come to life, delighting both children and adults with their choreographed water ballet.
Experience a captivating journey through Basel’s history; the Basel Museum offers artefacts, documents, and exhibits that bring the past to life. The Barfüsserkirche section, housed in a former church, is particularly noteworthy for its medieval art and artefacts. With its harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy, Basel beckons travellers to immerse themselves in a city that treasures its past while embracing the future. Each tourist site unfolds unique details of Basel’s identity, creating an unforgettable tapestry of culture, art, and natural beauty that lingers in the hearts of those who wander its enchanting streets.
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VOL 3 NO. 53 • NEW YEAR EDITION 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com 023 has been a wild year for the movies. Who would’ve thought this year would’ve seen the resurgence 2experience of concert movies, underperforming Marvel films, a rise in original properties, and the massive theatrical that was Barbenheimer? Even with the strikes, 2023 managed to put out an absurd number of
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
The 7 Best Movies I Saw This Year
great films throughout the year, from gigantic blockbusters that did worse than usual to compelling original projects that became surprise successes. With the long shadow of the pandemic in retreat, cinema came back in all its infinite variety, filling theatres to such an extent that the term Barbenheimer was coined to describe the two summer movies that opened on the same day and shattered box-office records. Few had much hope for Barbie, a film about a doll, or Oppenheimer, an epic about nuclear doomsday. But look at them now, heading into the Oscar race with dollar signs attached to their rave reviews. But it’s not surprising how many excellent films we got throughout 2023, and as the year ends, it’s hard to even narrow down the list of the year’s best to just seven films. From auteurs like Martin Scorsese, David Fincher, Sofia Coppola, and Wes Anderson, to hit feature film debuts from YouTubers The Philippou Brothers, it gets difficult to narrow this great movie year to just seven films, but I’ll do my best.
Spiderman: Across The Spider-Verse
There are as many artistic virtues in Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse as there are alternate versions of Spidey across the multiverse. However, what’s especially impressive about this animated sequel is how deftly it wove jaw-dropping spectacle with such intimate displays of emotions. Even with so many characters and action sequences to juggle, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’s filmmakers never lost sight of the internal plights of Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy.
Barbie:
From the very first images we received of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling standing amidst the pink, plastic world of Barbie, it was clear writer-director Greta Gerwig knew exactly what she was doing. That clear vision permeated through the bits and pieces of the film that continued to be teased leading up to July. But when the movie finally premiered, it’s safe to say it surpassed almost anyone’s expectations, my own included. It would be easy to define Barbie by its success, especially pertaining to its box office — for a film that wasn’t a sequel, remake, or attached to any well-known superhero franchise, the audience response was unparalleled. It crossed the $1 billion milestone worldwide, and proved a career high for Gerwig in terms of broader recognition. But setting all numbers aside, the reason Barbie is inarguably one of the best films of the year is because it’s an entirely joyful experience from start to finish, and sometimes, that’s all you need from a movie.
Mission: ImpossibleDead Reckoning Part 1
That name is still a mouthful. Former IMF director Eugene Kittridge (Henry Czerny) returns with a mission for veteran agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise). He informs him that a dangerous AI has gone rogue and that it can be activated by a key that has been split in two. Hunt must track down the halves of the key before they fall into the hands of the myriad of villains who would use the technology for evil. His quest takes him across the globe, from Washington, D.C., and Abu Dhabi to Venice and the Arabian Desert. It’s an intriguing and topical premise, given the recent strides in AI and renewed concerns about where the technology might be headed. Writer-Director Christopher McQuarrie fleshes the narrative out with a sprawling ensemble cast, including wonderful performers like Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, and Pom Klementieff. He also raises the stakes when it comes to the stunts, most notably with Hunt’s death-defying motorcycle ride off a cliff face. Dead Reckoning did not perform as well as hoped at the box office, but this was not due to any flaws with the film itself but rather stiff competition from Barbenheimer. It’s spectacle filmmaking done right; combining epic scope with interesting characters.
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There was always such a beautiful human element to this stylised story that embraced all the wacky tomfoolery that could previously only happen in comic books. With this quality, Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse transformed into as much of an emotional triumph as it was a groundbreaking visual experience. While many superhero films in 2023 lost sight of anything even remotely resembling a human touch, SpiderMan: Across the Spider-Verse dazzled the heart and eyes with equal levels of mastery
John Wick Chapter 4 Though 2019’s John Wick: Chapter 3 certainly didn’t skimp on the epic shootouts or the martial-arts-laced throwdowns the series is known for, it did feel padded and narratively shaky in a way that made it fair to ask: Were we sure the Wick team still had gas left in the tank? Well, John Wick: Chapter 4 answered that question this year with a Dragon’s Breath shotgun blast to the face, taking everything fans loved about the series and blowing it out in ways that were staggering in their bravado. Do you want a sword fight between Asian action legends Donnie Yen and Hiroyuki Sanada? You got it. Do you want a seemingly impossible car chase that just so happens to tear through the crowded roundabout at France’s Arc de Triomphe? You got that, too. How about B-movie brawler Scott Adkins, unrecognisable in facial prosthetics and a fat suit, throwing roundhouse kicks as a German mob boss? Or villainous Bill Skarsgård finding ways to chew through scenery even though Ian McShane is standing right there next to him? Done and done! And at the middle of it all remains Keanu Reeves’ stoic yet weary assassin, saying less but conveying more than he ever has before in a Wick film that’s nearly three hours long but still feels effectively streamlined. Chapter 4’s closing moments seem to indicate John may have finally found peace, and, if that holds true, it’s tough to imagine a more kinetically majestic sendoff. And if Reeves and director Chad Stahelski do decide Wick’s not done fighting yet … well, it’s probably wise if we just all agree to never doubt them again.
Talk To Me
Remakes, sequels, reboots, and reimaginings; the horror genre knows where it gets its bread buttered and that is sadly not with original titles. It’s become rare to see a title from an up-and-coming horror auteur like Hereditary or The Witch come on the scene and blow all the IP out of the water. But 2023 was treated to one such film, Danny and Michael Phillippou’s (also known as RackaRacka on YouTube) Talk to Me. When Mia (Sophie Wilde) and her gang of friends continuously play with a mysterious artefact in the shape of a hand that allows spirits to enter the body seemingly without any long-term effects as long as it does not exceed 90 seconds, it’s treated as the new recreational drug. Videos are posted on social media as each kid feels the rush of adrenaline when they let a spirit in. However, when Mia’s best friend’s younger brother
gets a go and ends up possessed by Mia’s dead mother, the teens learn that they are very much playing a game of life or death. To go further would be to ruin it. Driven home by an outstanding lead performance from Wilde, Talk to Me is undoubtedly the best horror title of 2023.
Killers of The Flower Moon
Martin Scorsese has never shied away from making movies about the worst people in American society and how they’re microcosms of larger institutional rot. With Killers of the Flower Moon, Scorsese takes this concept into an especially searing direction as he shows the gradual slaughter of the indigenous Osage people of Oklahoma at the hands of White people. Scorsese doesn’t hold back in depicting the relentless cruelty white people from all walks of society got away with, but not while sacrificing the humanity of the film’s Osage characters. Performers like Lily Gladstone and Cara Jade Myers turn in some of the year’s most richly detailed performances as Mollie Kyle and Anna Brown, respectively. Gladstone especially excels in a turn that sees her outshining Leonardo DiCaprio in their many scenes together and grabbing every ounce of the audience’s attention with just the way she moves her eyes or twitches her throat. Many Scorsese films have been about distinctly American corruption. But the raw human consequences of all that corruption have rarely been more vividly represented in this man’s filmography than in Gladstone’s unforgettable Killers of the Flower Moon performance.
Oppenheimer
Like many cinephiles, I am an admirer of Christopher Nolan’s work as a filmmaker. Oppenheimer is his greatest achievement. Never has Nolan’s direction felt this confident. It’s ambitious, like all of his movies, but this is one of those rare moments where all that momentum and experimentation pays off beautifully. Considering all the events going on in our world, Oppenheimer is Nolan’s most timely and politically charged movie to date. Seeing the Trinity Test sequence in IMAX was a pulse-pounding and unforgettable experience. This is what going to the movies is all about.
Cillian Murphy, who has been criminally underrated for years, gives a career-defining performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer, alongside a stellar supporting cast including A-listers like Robert Downey Jr giving their best performances to date, to a wide array of “that guy” actors like Josh Hartnett and Alden Ehrenreich, who also turn in stellar work. Oppenheimer is, without a doubt, the best movie I saw in 2023. But I’ll also admit that this film wouldn’t have been nearly the pop culture sensation that it was without Barbie. Just saying.