Shaffy Bello isn’t your regular Nollywood actor; she is also a singer who became famous in the entertainment industry for her vocals in Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit song, Love Me Jeje. She moved back from the US, debuted in the movie Eti Keta, and has acted in numerous English and Yoruba films since then. Bello believes that whatever you are set upon this earth to do comes to you, and if you are aware of it, you recognise it and latch onto it. So, what she did over the years was to be sensitive to the things around her. Unlike other Nollywood actors, Bello would rather not be called an actor. Instead, she prefers being called a becomer because once the camera goes on and you hear “action,” you should become the character. When she’s not on set, she wakes up any time she pleases; Shaffy Bello describes that as a blessing. Read her interview on pages 8 to 10.
Leggings can be worn in various ways. Although many people think you can only wear them to the gym or while lounging, this fashion piece can be worn to different events as well; the secret is in the styling. We show you six simple yet stylish ways to look put together when wearing leggings. Scroll to pages 4 and 5.
Our beauty page discusses locs. While locs can be distinctive and adaptable, they require some work and attention to keep looking clean, fresh, and healthy. On page 12, we highlight six easy-to-follow methods for keeping the best-looking locs.
On October 1st, we celebrated our Independence Day. Happy 64th Independence to Nigeria. To commemorate this, our movie review page features five Nigerian movies you must watch. It’s quite a good selection.
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 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.
Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
6 WAYS TO WEAR LEGGINGS AS PANTS
Wearing leggings in various elegant ways makes them an essential wardrobe piece. Unlike what some people may believe—that they’re only for working out or lounging—leggings can be worn for a variety of events. The secret is to style them properly so they appear polished and sophisticated. These six simple yet stylish ways will help you seem put together even when wearing leggings as pants.
1
PAIR WITH A LONG TOP OR TUNIC
Pairing leggings with a long top or tunic is one of the simplest ways to wear them as pants. The length of the top enhances your comfortable yet fashionable look, counteracting the tightness of the leggings. Choose tops that cover your hips or fall slightly above the knee. You can accessorise this ensemble with sneakers or flat sandals to make it appropriate for informal get-togethers.
2
GO FOR AN OVERSIZED SWEATER
Leggings go well with oversized sweaters, especially in the colder months. The leggings balance the ensemble by giving your legs some structure, and the oversized sweater gives off a warm, relaxed vibe. This combination is perfect for casual get-togethers with friends, running errands, and relaxing. You’re ready to leave if you put on some ankle boots.
LAYER WITH A BLAZER OR JACKET
Try wearing a structured jacket or blazer layered over your leggings for a more put-together and stylish appearance. With a long, fitted blazer, your leggings can be quickly transformed from casual to business casual. Wear a simple T-shirt or blouse with your leggings, throw on a blazer, and accessorise with heels or ankle boots to complete the ensemble. This ensemble is ideal for a laidback day at work or even a lunch meeting.
TUCK IN A BUTTONUP SHIRT
Button-up shirts can be tucked into leggings for a stylish, streetstyle look. For a more laid-back style, wear the shirt slightly loose; alternatively, tuck it in for a more put-together ensemble. Wear a vest over the shirt or add a belt to give the outfit some dimension. Wear with sandals, sneakers, or loafers, depending on the occasion.
If you know how to style them, leggings can be worn as fashionable pants, as well as great for the gym or relaxing at home. The secret is to balance the fitted silhouette of the leggings with other pieces of your wardrobe, whether you wear them with blazers, long tops, or oversized sweaters. The next time you reach for them, try one of these six ideas to transform your leggings into a stylish yet cosy outfit suitable for any occasion. 5 3 6 4
STYLE WITH A DRESS
You can also pair dresses with leggings. It’s a great idea to wear leggings underneath a short dress to make your ensemble fashionable and functional, particularly during the colder months. You can wear dresses that usually feel too short because the leggings cover your legs. For a casual yet stylish look, choose a dress that is fitting or has a modest flow, and wear it with flats or boots.
WEAR WITH A CROP TOP AND LAYER OVER
Wearing a crop top with leggings and a long cardigan is an excellent alternative if you love wearing crop tops but want more coverage. The crop top draws attention to your waist, while the long cardigan creates equilibrium by covering your thighs and hips. Wearing leggings without feeling overly exposed is attractive and fashionable with this look.
6 Simple Tips to
MAKE YOUR HOME
LOOK MORE EXPENSIVE
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Everybody wants their house to be comfortable and elegant, yet creating an upscale appearance can occasionally seem difficult. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to seem opulent. You can create an upscale atmosphere in your house with a few well-thought-out design elements and smart adjustments. This article will provide six simple yet effective techniques to add a more expensive-looking feel to your home without going over budget.
1. UPGRADE YOUR LIGHTING
Setting the mood of a space is greatly influenced by the lighting. Simple or inexpensive lighting fixtures can add a lifeless feeling to your room. Invest in statement lighting fixtures like chandeliers, pendant lights, or distinctive table lamps to create an affluent atmosphere. Choose between classic or modern designs based on your taste in style. Consider layering your lighting and combining floor lamps, ceiling lights, and candles to create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The whole space is instantly made more elegant by changing the lighting.
2. ADD MIRRORS FOR ELEGANCE
Light is not the only thing that mirrors reflect. They can create the impression of more space, lightness, and sophistication when appropriately placed. In your living room or bedroom, a large, decorative mirror can serve as a focal point and give the impression of depth and space. Interesting-framed mirrors, such as ones with metallic coatings, geometric patterns, or retro elements, can also function as stylish works of art.
3. USE LARGE-SCALE ART PIECES
With the addition of art, any area can feel sophisticated and well-curated. If you want your house to appear expensive, consider displaying one or two large-scale pieces of art. Large artwork catches the eye and gives the space character. Select artwork such as posters, pictures, or paintings that suit your style. Bright colours or simple patterns can be effective depending on your home’s motif.
4. INCORPORATE LUXE FABRICS
The luxurious feel of your home can be significantly influenced by the fabrics you select. Luxurious and plush materials such as silk, velvet, or faux fur quickly exude grandeur. Incorporate these in your drapes and blankets, and toss pillows. Making a little yet classy upgrade to your bedspread or cushion covers can have a significant impact.
5. DECLUTTER AND KEEP IT MINIMAL CONCLUSION
6. BRING IN GREENERY
A clutter-free area always appears more expensive. Keeping your surfaces neat and organised will help your home feel more spacious and well thought out. To keep everything organised, get rid of everything you don’t use or need and choose chic storage options like shelves or baskets. Your house does not have to appear empty when you follow minimalism. Rather, the focus is on incorporating a limited number of outstanding elements that will make it stand out.
One of the simplest and least expensive ways to add a lively, fresh vibe to your house is with plants. When positioned correctly, they not only offer an elegant touch but also enhance the quality of the air. Go for huge plants in a corner of your living room, such as a monstera or fiddle leaf fig. On your coffee table or dining table, tiny potted plants or fresh flowers can also produce an exquisite effect if you don’t have enough room for larger plants.
It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to make your house look expensive. You may quickly improve your living space by concentrating on a few essential components, such as lighting, mirrors, art, fabrics, decluttering, and greenery. These easy-to-follow tips will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your house but also assist you in creating a cosy, inviting space that feels and looks luxurious.
SHAFFY BELLO
NOLLYWOOD ROYALTY
Severalnotable figures in Nigerian cinema have shaped the field for many years, contributing to Nollywood’s development into what it is today. Both in acting and film production, these industry legends have devoted their lives to advancing their respective fields. They have helped Nollywood become known internationally for their devotion, and their efforts have established high standards for aspiring performers and filmmakers to follow. Their perseverance, imagination, and hard work have paved the path for the next generation to succeed in an industry that is always evolving.
Shaffy Bello, an actor and singer who first gained popularity in the entertainment industry for her vocals on Seyi Sodimu’s 1997 hit song Love Me Jeje, is one of these remarkable figures. After growing up in the US, Shaffy moved back to Nigeria, where she made her Nollywood debut in the Yoruba movie Eti Keta. She has acted in many English and Yoruba movies throughout the years, in addition to wellknown TV shows, including Taste of Love and Tinsel. Shaffy is well-known for her
adaptability and has successfully juggled acting and music, making a name for herself in both fields. Many young actors still find inspiration in her work as they look up to her as an example of longevity, success, and excellence.
In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, Shaffy Bello talks about her experience in Nollywood, her sense of style, how she manages to stay true to herself in an evolving field, and her strategies for staying relevant over the years.
You’ve had an incredible journey as an actress. What inspired you to make the leap from music to acting? I believe very much that whatever it is that you’re set upon this earth to do comes to you. And if you’re very aware, you recognise it and latch onto it. What I have done over the years is to be sensitive to things around me. I was sensitive to the fact that there was an opening there. I had a yearning for it. When I came to Nigeria, musically that career for me, had gone into a coma. Let me not say died. It had gone into a coma. So when I got back to Nigeria, I wanted it because I had acted in two films in the U.S. before I came. I knew very much that I loved it. I had also been doing some stage plays and things like that in the U.S. before coming, so I knew I loved it. So, coming here, I wanted to, but I didn’t know what direction to take. But when you’re sensitive to a higher power, it just leads and guides you. So it wasn’t a matter of saying this is what I wanted to do. The universe opened the door to me. And I just walked right into it. And it was my set time.
Your first major film was Eti Keta, a Yoruba film. What was the experience like working on that set? It was quite interesting because, having played a few roles in the States, things were a bit different. Some things were familiar, though, but it was a Yoruba set. So, as you can imagine, things were not the same, and this was years ago. So things were not the same as it is today. Now, keep in mind that, at that time, that story had already been told. I met Saheed Balogun, and we just launched into it. He looked at me and was like, I’ve finished this film, but I wish you were in it, and he created a space. That’s what I mean by when the universe, when God says it’s time, He just opens the door. A film that was already completed, and then the producer goes, you know what? I would change the story, intertwine it, and put you in it. That was an opportunity that God opened up for me. It was great. I felt like it was a great opportunity. So, if anything was going on that was not even up to par for me, I scaled through it. Because I saw an opportunity, I didn’t see anything else. So I launched into it. Thankfully, it was a great venture because that film became a huge cinematic film. This was when cinema wasn’t doing great; it wasn’t the way it is now, but surprisingly, that film did exceptionally well in the theatres. He did a huge premiere. And, yeah, it was a great experience.
Looking back at your career, what has been the most challenging role you’ve ever taken on?
I think it would be Iyaloja in Eleshin Oba, The King’s Horseman. That was the most challenging role. And I’ll tell you why. It wasn’t because it was an indigenous film. That, for me, was challenging, because this was a Pulitzer Prize winner, Professor Wole Soyinka’s film. And then, of course, it was produced by Ebony Studios. It was challenging, more so because of the language barrier. I could speak Yoruba, but indigenous Yoruba was another challenge. So I had to have a coach. And so playing that role, it wasn’t even just getting in the role itself and into character. That wasn’t the only problem. It was a language problem. So I had to study. I must say, throughout my career, that’s been the most challenging role. Because it took a lot of work. A lot of work, I must say. But I welcomed the challenge. And I still do to this day. Characters like that show people how versatile an actor is. And I often wanted to let people see how versatile I am as an actor. And that proved it. And it opened so many other doors for me.
How do you prepare mentally and emotionally for the intense role that you play?
For me, I’ve often said being called an actor is not something that I like. But, of course, it’s an internationally known word to use. I often say I love being called a becomer because I always say that once the camera goes on and
we hear action, if you’re acting, then you’ve failed. You should become the character. Even after reading a script once or twice to get into character. I’m not going to lie, there are some scripts you read and it’s very easy to become because it’s just second nature. You’ve played such characters over and over again. It’s not a big deal anymore. But I still read some and still find it a little bit difficult. I did a film recently, The Masked King, and I had to play a queen in Calabar and it was in the colonial days, Mary Slessor days. The film should be out very soon. And in that film, I had to speak a little bit of Calabar here and there. I had to be very indigenous to the people. So, to achieve that, I went back and studied some of the nuances, how they are, and who they are as a people. Calabar people are very calm. I would look through the people while we’re on set. I would just, you know, watch the women. See the way their nuances and things like that. So you study, and that’s how you become. You study why they are who they are or why that character is who she is. I gave a class recently to some actors. And I was telling them that it’s very important to have a character bible of the character you’re about to play. When she’s angry, if she’s an angry character all the time, you want to ask, why is she angry? And then, if you look back, you probably find out or give that character a story. It helps to define the reason why a character is like that. Because we’re only human, when we’re playing these characters, we’re playing real people. When the writer sat down to write the character, there was a reason behind every character and their nuances. Why are they angry? Why are they always happy? Why are they confused? Why do they want to be married? Why do they want children so badly and they are doing whatever it takes? There is a reason behind everything. So, if you know the reason behind why a character is who they are, and you give yourself that story, it makes it easier. But to put it in a short word, you study hard.
I would love to play. I think she would be fun to play.
“I often say I love being called a becomer because I always say that once the camera goes on and we hear action, if you’re acting, then you’ve failed. You should become the character. Even after reading a script once or twice to get into character.”
What’s that one role you’ve played that you feel is kind of closer to your real personality?
I don’t think I’ve played any role that I feel is me. Maybe I can say Adora in Battleground was more, without the story of her life, the way she lives, the way she thinks. Adora is a well-travelled character. She spoke well. It was very much easier. It was easier to play Adora. But emotionally, Adora is a different person than I am. But in terms of the nuances of the character and how she spoke, I didn’t have to tone down anything with Adora. So I think I’ve played so many characters like that, but I would say Adora from Battleground
Are there any characters or roles that you would like to play in the future that you haven’t had the chance to yet?
There are so many roles. I often say as an actor, I am pregnant, and I just need to deliver. I use that all the time to just tell people how I feel. Every actor always wants to show forth their versatility in them. There are many characters that I would love to play. For example, Chief Daddy in The Black Book was also a character that I loved playing because there was nothing about her that you could fish out, she’s still evolving. So, is there any character that I would still love to play? So many more. Do you know that character in The Devil Wears Prada? That woman. That would be a character that
As someone who has worked in both music and acting, what similarities and differences do you find in expressing yourself through these two art forms? I think they’re both the same. I don’t see any difference in acting and music. I’m not talking about the technical aspect of it. In this one, you’re singing. In this one, you’re playing a role. Both of them come with you being very true to yourself. As a singer, you have to be true to yourself in telling stories. And you find that when you look at a musician like Asake, he tells his story. You can tell from his music and his background what moulded him. With Davido, when you listen to his music, you can tell that these are stories that mean a lot. So what it is, is when they get the songs or when they write the songs, the story itself tells who the artist is. It’s the same thing as an actor. When you see an actor perform, the performance ought to tell you who that character is. So the difference between an actor is an actor is not bringing himself or herself into that character, whereas a singer has to be singing about themselves and what’s going on in their environment all the time. It’s still a form of entertainment. Both of them are forms of entertainment; first of all, they’re both entertaining, but to be successful in both of them, you have to be true to yourself. For me, a lot of times, people who do not truly know who they are; they are confused. And when you’re confused and you don’t know who you are, it becomes a problem for you to even tell a story. When you know who you are, you put that aside and you tell a story. As a singer, you tell a story of who you are and who you’re not. Asake can sing about the wealthy life because now he has lived it. In the beginning, he didn’t because he hadn’t lived it. So it’s very difficult to see a singer who is suffering, who you can tell hasn’t made it in the career, to talk about “money, money, money, we dey spend am, e plenty, e plenty”. It’s very hard to connect with that person. Do you see where I’m going with that? So it’s very hard to connect with that singer. But when a singer sings about the trenches, because that’s where he’s from, it resonates because he can sing it with all his soul. So when an actor also studies the character they’re about to play and puts yourself, you put that down and you go deeper into the story because you know who you are, so this is not telling a story of who you are. This is telling a story of who this character is. So, those are the differences. But the similarity will be knowing who you truly are and living a selfawareness life.
our culture. I took it with me when I went. I lived it over there. I never forgot where I was from. So when I got back here, you didn’t bring what you learned over there. It works for them over here. You get to Nigeria, you adjust. Now, you do not adjust to the things where you lose who you are as a person. Being kind is universal. Being sensitive to other people is universal. The only difference that I see is that sometimes people are not courteous, and that happens all over the world. I don’t think there’s a difference between there and here. It’s just an individual thing. So there are people in Nigeria who are self-aware where they know human relations and space and giving people space. Say maybe we’re in a queue. I don’t want the next person behind me standing so close to me, which they do here. Over there, you will look back and say, excuse me, can you step back a bit? They don’t understand that here. So those are the little things that you see. Not much of a difference. Being human is universal. And I think because I didn’t bring the Western expectation to what I do. There’s a reason why Nollywood has grown to where it is and that’s because Nollywood is peculiar to Nollywood. You can’t take the character of Hollywood and bring it here. It doesn’t work. So, you adjust wherever you are. I often say if you take me now and put me in Angola, I will adjust because it’s not about the things around me. It’s about what is in me. So, I believe that one of the reasons why I did so well was because I just adjusted to the way things are done here. It doesn’t mean they’re bad. It just means they’re different.
How do you handle the pressure of being a public figure, balancing your career with personal life?
“There are so many
roles.
I often say as an actor, I am pregnant, and I just need to deliver. I use that all the time to just tell people how I feel. Every actor always wants to show forth their versatility in them.”
What were the biggest cultural differences you had to adapt to when you returned to Nigeria to pursue your acting career? Well, there are so many things here that are different from living in the Western world. But please know that, for me, I’ve never been that person that looked down on the way we are and
I believe in a higher power. I don’t just operate in a physical form. I believe I’m a spiritual being living in a physical body. So because of that, I do not do anything on my own. I tap into a spiritual power. And my form of referencing that higher power is I say that I am a Christian who believes in Jesus Christ. Therefore, through that, I don’t make decisions on my own, and because of that, I walk in a knowledge of I have to be better, do better, and be a better, higher version of myself daily. When I walk into a space, I must acknowledge and know that this person is different. I operate that way in everything that I do. Decisions are not just made with me just feeling, oh, I’m just going to make this decision. I tap into my higher power, and I am guided. Now, because of that, I try to get people to realise that I don’t make the mistake. Because of that, God gave me a brain. I use it. I work very hard. I’ve been very consistent. I am a person of integrity. And because of that, doors open. People want to be in business with me. And when I say business, I mean the entertainment, I mean the influencing, everything that I do, MCing, speaking engagement. People want to do business with me because there is a positive energy around me. And that’s how I can balance it because the pressure of living in the world, and especially in Nigeria, is quite high. You cannot do it alone. So I don’t try to do it alone. So because I am guided, because I am given knowledge, and wisdom, by the grace of God, I make the right decisions. And because of integrity and consistency, I attract the right people. Let me put it that way. It’s never easy to take the positive way out all the time. Because what that means is you say no to a lot of business deals. You say no to some things that can enrich you financially. I’ve also learned to say no to some things that just don’t connect with my brand and with my beliefs. But when I do say yes, I realise that this is the reason why God was directing me this way. So, I anchor on a higher power. That’s how I stay balanced.
What are the things that keep you grounded?
I have a son and I have a daughter. My children anchor who I am. That’s also one of the things that
keeps me grounded. My children anchor me. I must show them, I must be a light and an example to them always.
How do you unwind after a long day on set or after a particularly challenging role?
So, how do I unwind when I’m not working? I unwind by just dropping everything. I believe very much in taking time for yourself. So I take time out. Sometimes I travel. And it’s not just about travelling. Sometimes, I just take the time off social media. Like right now, if you look through my page, I haven’t posted in about a week. Maybe I’ll do a story here and there. But I haven’t posted. And that’s because sometimes I just feel like the energy there is very negative. So I retract, and I just concentrate on the things around me. The positive things around me. The air around me. Just sitting in a place, drinking a cup of coffee with a journal in your hand. And just being present with nature. Being present with what’s around you. Enjoying the calmness. I don’t want people to think that you must have money, you must travel, you must be affluent to be able to enjoy things. No. Sometimes, I don’t travel, and I still have that Zen. I make my home as comfortable as possible. I can be in my house for three days just reverencing God and just being present and restoring what I have put out. Because in what I do, you put out a lot of energy, and you have to get restored. So I go to a place where I restore. Then I have friends and family that I start to connect back with. Because as an actor, you stay so busy. I’m an actor. I’m a speaker. I am an influencer. That takes a lot of energy from you. So, to restore that, I shut down all of that. And I start to connect with the people that love me and matter to me. Those are the times I connect with them. I talk to them.
I make phone calls. We laugh. They put back into me those things, the energy that I have exhausted.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self starting in the industry?
Be patient. You are going to get to that place where you now see why you were patient, and things were the way they are. You have to be hardworking. And you have to be consistent. And in hardworking, I would say to you, my younger self, drop your phone sometimes. And if you have to pick up your phone, use it for something positive. Instead of scrolling through TikTok and Instagram, go to YouTube and study acting. Study the entertainment field. Study the business of it. Study the influencing part of it. Study the reason why you need an Instagram page as an actor. Study the reason why you need to read your script as an actor. Study the reason why character bibles are important. Go to YouTube and study Acting 101. Click it in there and use your data. Use that data positively. Study, study, study. Practice, practice, practice. Go to auditions. Be the first person there. Be consistent. Be good at what you do. This industry is no longer looking for quantity. They are looking for quality. How good are you when you step into a room, and you give an audition piece? Will they remember you? Those are the questions you need to ask yourself. If you want this, don’t want it for popularity, want it because this is what your heart yearns for. And this is what you want to do. Because if you’re doing it for the wrong reasons, you are going to be exhausted. So be consistent. Work hard and pray.
Having been in the industry for years, how would you say Nollywood has evolved throughout your career? Nollywood has evolved tremendously. That question for me, everybody can answer it. People say it all the time. It’s grown. Whatever it is that we’re doing in life, we expect that, at some point, it will grow. Those are the legends of this industry. I give them kudos because they went through a whole lot. They opened doors and channels for us with their sweat and hard work that we are now enjoying. When you start something from the beginning, there’s no money in it. You just do it for the sacrifice and for the love of it. It’s almost like a new actor coming in. You put in the sweat. Those who are our true legends and icons put in the hard work and the sweat. And by the grace of God, some of them are enjoying it now. Look at someone like Mama G, Mama Patience Ozokwor. They put in a lot of hard work. And thankfully, I am grateful that people like that are now enjoying and reaping that. Although some are not fortunate enough to do so. If you go back to the movies that they were shooting then it was the basics. But look at where we are now and, of course, the streaming platforms that came and changed everything, that also made the industry evolve, and the business aspect of it has evolved. So, a lot of things about
the industry have evolved; it just makes sense that everything about it has transformed. I often say that Nollywood is about quality and not quantity anymore. What do you bring to the table? And yes, I said it; what do you bring to the table is now part of the question and is something you must be able to answer. We are now in an era of social media, that also transitioned the industry. Now you have the likes of influencers becoming actors because innately that’s probably why they started influencing, to get recognised and that has evolved them into being in films. So a lot of things happened, and we have a lot of opportunities to come into the industry now. So, it has evolved because life itself is about change.
In your view, what do you think the Nigerian film industry needs to improve to compete on a global scale
We need to continue telling our stories. We’ve been doing it, but we need to continue telling our stories authentically. No one can tell our stories like we can. Nigerian women, either Igbo, Hausa, or Yoruba their nuances are so different. When we hear a Yoruba woman speak, we can sort of tell. When we hear an Igbo woman speak or a Hausa woman, we can tell. So when an international actor takes on our role, we know the differences. Other people around the world may not see it, but we can see it, and we can tell if some of the nuances are not there. So, we need to just keep going by telling our stories. So, I believe that if we keep doing that, we would just keep evolving.
What is a typical day like for Shaffy Bello when you’re not on set?
I would wake up any time I please without any alarm. That in itself is a blessing. So when I do, I use the time well. I wake up, I say my prayers, get my word in to give myself the daily bread, and then I speak good things into my life; I always do that every day, though. That’s a daily practice. But when I am not working, I think the most beautiful part is being able to wake up without an alarm. I get to do whatever it is I want to do. I check in with my home. I mean the things I don’t normally do at home, like cleaning things up and getting things situated, because I love it when things are the way they ought to be. Those are the times that I make phone calls. I try not to do work during those periods.
From Around The World TRAVEL Colourful Festivals
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Holi (India)
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, is one of the most colourful celebrations in the world. Primarily celebrated in India and Nepal, Holi marks the arrival of spring and indicates the victory of good over evil.
People celebrating Holi throw coloured powder at each other, turning the streets into a display of bright shades. The festival is a joyful event that fosters unity and goodwill among people.
Rio de Janeiro Carnival (Brazil)
The Rio Carnival is one of the world’s most famous and visually stunning festivals. Held annually before Lent, it features massive parades with samba dancers dressed in dazzling costumes decorated with feathers, jewels, and beads.
The atmosphere is always electric, with music, dancing, and street parties taking over the city for several days. Attending the Rio Carnival is a bucket-list experience for many travellers.
La Tomatina (Buñol, Spain)
La Tomatina is one of the most unique and messy festivals worldwide. During this festival, participants engage in a massive tomato fight in the streets of Buñol, Spain. Held on the last Wednesday of August, the festival sees thousands of people throwing overripe tomatoes at each other, covering the town in red. While it may not be glamorous, it’s undoubtedly a fun and unforgettable experience.
All over the world, different cultural groups have special festivals to honour their roots and traditions. These festivals bring people together in celebration of culture, tradition, and joy, most times featuring extravagant displays of colour, music, and dance. One of the best things about these festivities is that it welcomes foreigners from far and wide to witness and experience the splendour of their culture.
These festivals are a feast for the senses and a fantastic way to experience the rich traditions of different cultures. There are so many of these festivals in various countries, and for this week’s travel guide, we will highlight a few of these colourful festivals worth experiencing.
Venice Carnival (Italy)
The Venice Carnival, held in the weeks before Lent, is known for its elaborate and elegant masks worn by attendees as they stroll through the streets and attend masked balls. The festival induces a sense of mystery and romance.
The stunning Renaissance-era costumes, the scenery of Venice’s canals, and the historic architecture make this a truly magical event.
Harbin Ice And Snow Festival (China)
For a winter wonderland experience, the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival in China is a must-see. From January to February, this festival features massive ice sculptures, ice palaces, and light shows. Artists from around the world come to Harbin to carve elaborate designs out of ice, creating an enchanting landscape that attracts visitors despite the freezing temperatures.
These festivals allow locals and foreigners to experience the local traditions and cultures with their vibrant displays of colour and energy. No matter your type of scenery, there are festivals sure to suit your taste.
BEAUTY
1.
Regular moisturising is one of the most crucial aspects of loc maintenance. If locs aren’t properly hydrated, they can become dry and brittle like any other hair type. Dry locs can seem dull and are more likely to break. Use a mild oil, such as coconut, almond, or jojoba oil, or a waterbased leave-in conditioner to keep them hydrated. Alternatively, you can combine water, a few drops of essential oils, and your preferred lightweight oil in a spray bottle to create a basic moisturising spray. To keep your locs hydrated, mist them every few days or as needed. Never forget that water is your hair’s best friend; use it without hesitation.
How to Moisturise, Care For And Maintain Your Locs
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Dreadlocks, or locs, are a great and organic way to wear your hair. They can convey your individuality and style and are distinctive and adaptable. Nonetheless, a little work and attention are needed to keep locs appearing clean, fresh, and healthy. To ensure your locs remain strong, vibrant, and long-lasting, you must moisturise, clean, and maintain them properly. Here, we highlight six easy-to-follow but highly effective methods for keeping the best-looking locs.
A healthy scalp is essential for having locs. Your scalp naturally produces oils to lubricate your locs, but product buildup, sweat, and dirt accumulation can cause itching, dandruff, and even an offensive smell. Wash your locs using a residue-free shampoo regularly to maintain a clean scalp. Shampoos that don’t leave behind thick residue that can lead to buildup are designed to thoroughly clean the hair and scalp. Washing your hair every two to four weeks should be enough, depending on your lifestyle and type of hair. Ensure your locs are completely dry after washing to avoid mildew and odour.
Two benefits of retwisting are keeping your roots clean and preventing locs from marrying (coming together). It is best to retwist your hair every four to six weeks, depending on how quickly it grows and the style you want. Avoid retwisting too frequently, as this can cause scalp strain and thinning at the roots. Seeking professional assistance from a Loctician will guarantee proper retwisting if you’re new to the process.
Protecting your locs is essential, especially at night. Frizz, dryness, and breakage can result from the friction created by cotton pillowcases. Try wearing a satin or silk pillowcase or a scarf to protect your locs. Lint, dust, and other debris can become lodged in your locs, giving them an untidy appearance. By wrapping your locs, you can avoid this from happening. To keep your lengthy locs from tangling, you can also loosely braid or twist them.
5.AVOID HEAVY PRODUCTS
Although heavy products like butter, waxes, and thick creams may appear as if they provide your locs a lot of moisture, they may be more detrimental than beneficial. These products often result in dull, weighed-down locs since they build up quickly and are challenging to wash out. Choose natural oils and light creams that quickly penetrate and nurture locs without leaving a sticky residue. Avoid purchasing cosmetics that contain dangerous chemicals like mineral oils, parabens, and sulfates by always reading the ingredients list.
Being kind and patient with locs is crucial because it is a journey. Retwisting or styling should not include pulling, tugging, or excessive strain since this might result in breakage and thinning. Locs develop over time, and every stage is distinct. Let your locs grow organically and accept the process. Check frequently for any signs of damage, thinning areas, or weak spots, and take immediate action to fix them. Your locs will be more beautiful and healthier the more you love and care for them.
Though maintaining and caring for locs requires commitment and consistency, it can be a gratifying and pleasant experience when done correctly. Your locs reflect your individuality and sense of style, so be proud of the upkeep and attention you give them.
BEST EXERCISES FOR POSTURE AND BACK RELIEF
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Ageing is an inevitable process in the life span of every living thing. When combined with vigorous daily activities, ageing can cause pain, especially back pain, and sometimes lead to bad posture when nothing is done about it.
Maintaining good posture and treating back pain is important for overall health, especially given the increasing number of people who sit for long hours, relaxing or working.
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to address these fitness issues. Exercising helps to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and improve spinal alignment. For our fitness editorial this week, here is a guide to some proven exercise routines that aim to improve posture and relieve back pain.
This yoga-inspired stretch is one of the best techniques that improves spinal flexibility and relieves tension in the back.
It is a simple routine that begins with you going down on all fours, arching your back like a cat, and then moving into a cow pose by dropping your belly and lifting your chest.
This has to be done repeatedly as this movement slowly loosens tight back muscles and enhances one’s posture.
Another yoga pose is the Child’s Pose. This exercise routine helps stretch the lower back and spine while boosting relaxation.
To begin, kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels, stretch your arms forward, and rest your forehead on the ground. This stretch helps elongate the spine and relieve back tension. It’s an ideal warmup technique before beginning your full workout sessions.
Planks is a core-strengthening exercise that also improves posture. A strong core supports the spine, making it easier to maintain proper alignment throughout the day. To perform this, start in a push-up position, plant your hands directly under your shoulder, engage your core, and hold the position for 30 seconds to a minute.
Note that you can begin by holding that position for 30 seconds and then increase the time as you improve.
Bridges are exercise routines that strengthen the glutes and lower back, supporting the spine. To do this, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Lift your hips towards the ceiling while squeezing your glutes. This exercise not only helps with posture but also reduces lower back pain.
Seated Rows
Seated rows, which can be done with a resistance band or on a rowing machine, target the upper back and shoulders. This routine strengthens these muscles and helps pull the shoulders back, preventing slouching and improving posture.
The seated row is performed on a weighted horizontal cable machine with a bench and footplates. This piece of equipment can be used as a stand-alone piece or part of a multi-gym. Seated cable rows can be used as part of an upper-body strength workout.
Plank
Bridges
Cat-Cow Stretch
Child’s Pose
BON APPÉTIT
Italian Indulgence Spaghetti Carbonara
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Do you find yourself craving a taste of Itay in your kitchen? Well then, you are in luck because this week’s recipe is an Italian special.
We all know that Italy is world-renowned for its delectable dishes. From ravioli to pizza to lasagnas, Italy continues to serve us deliciousness. This week’s recipe is one of Italy’s finest: “Spaghetti Carbonara.”
This creamy dish full of flavour will transport your taste buds to the streets of Rome with every bite. With its rich flavours and simple yet sophisticated preparation, Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless masterpiece that continues to delight taste buds around the world. Here’s how to cook up this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
• 320g spaghetti
• 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 50g grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 50g grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or guanciale and cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Whisk the Eggs
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated pecorino romano cheese, and grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese until well combined.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the spaghetti is cooked, return the skillet with the cooked pancetta or guanciale to low heat. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat it with the rendered fat.
Add the Egg Mixture
Remove the skillet from heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, stirring constantly to coat the spaghetti evenly. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
Adjust Consistency
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
Season and Serve
Season the Spaghetti Carbonara generously with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired, and now, enjoy your sumptuous creation.
Spaghetti Carbonara is a true Italian comfort food classic, with its rich, velvety sauce and irresistible flavours. Whether enjoyed as a cosy dinner for two or shared with family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress both. Buon Appetito!
Everything You Need to Know About
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Conversations about open partnerships have increased in numerous areas in recent years. Both parties must consent to let each other have romantic or sexual interactions with other people for a relationship to be considered open. This kind of non-monogamous relationship is one in which the couple is open to pursuing relationships outside of their union, yet they remain committed to one another. Open partnerships have benefits and drawbacks, even though some people may find them desirable. In this article, we will break down the pros and cons of being in an open relationship.
1. FREEDOM TO EXPLORE NEW CONNECTIONS
The freedom that comes with being in an open relationship is one of the main reasons people embrace it. Being faithful to one person is expected in a conventional partnership. However, in an open relationship, both parties consent to be free to mingle and make new friends. This can be exciting since it allows each partner to try new things and gain knowledge from various connections. This sensation of independence helps many people feel less constrained. It can be a breath of fresh air not to feel as though you’re losing out on other possible relationships or experiences. You can achieve balance by following your interests while preserving your main relationship.
2. JEALOUSY AND INSECURITY
In an open relationship, jealousy is one of the main obstacles. It is normal for feelings of insecurity to surface, even in cases where both partners approve of the arrangement. Whether you’re enough for your lover or if they’re more interested in someone else may become a concern for you. It can be difficult to overlook the emotional stress this can cause. When it comes to whether you can tolerate seeing your spouse with someone else, it’s critical to be honest with yourself. If jealousy or insecurity are not dealt with, they can lead to issues and possibly even the breakup of the relationship.
3. REDUCED PRESSURE ON ONE PARTNER TO MEET ALL THE NEEDS
One individual is frequently under pressure to satisfy all of your emotional, physical, and even intellectual requirements in a conventional relationship. There are moments when this feels too much. In an open relationship, you might find fulfilment in many aspects from various people. For instance, you can connect with someone else if your partner doesn’t share your interests or hobbies. Doing this lets you enjoy different facets of your personality with other people and relieves some of the pressure on your main spouse.
4. POTENTIAL FOR COMPLICATED EMOTIONS
Complex emotional issues can arise from open relationships. Things can get complicated if you feel more strongly for someone outside your main relationship. Feeling divided between your main spouse and someone else could cause uncertainty and emotional strife. To complicate matters, you and your partner may date other individuals, and they may also feel something for each other. In an open relationship, it can be challenging to forecast how feelings will develop, and this uncertainty can be stressful.
5. HIGH CHANCE OF EXPERIENCING GREATER SEXUAL SATISFACTION
A study found that people in open relationships were equally happy as those in monogamous relationships and that they frequently felt more sexually satisfied during the process, “especially if they did so with the explicit goal of addressing sexual incompatibilities within their relationships.” Therefore, an open relationship may be beneficial for both of you if you feel that your primary partner isn’t satisfying your sexual demands or isn’t willing to explore a particular want or aspect of your sexuality with you. They may also be alright with you trying to meet them elsewhere. Setting such limits upfront will help you ensure your desires are met, improve your self-awareness, and prevent your partner from feeling like they’ve let you down.
CONCLUSION
6. SOCIAL STIGMA AND JUDGEMENT
Despite societal acceptance of open relationships, there is still a great deal of stigma associated with them. A common belief among people is that being monogamous is the only “correct” way to be in a relationship. Friends, relatives, or even strangers who don’t respect or understand your decision may criticize you if you’re in an open relationship. This can be emotionally taxing, particularly for those who are sensitive to the opinions of others. You and your spouse may experience more stress if you are required to defend or explain your relationship regularly.
This decision requires a great degree of trust, understanding, and emotional maturity, so it shouldn’t be made carelessly. Whatever works for one couple may not work for another, as every relationship is unique. Your values, emotional needs, and capacity to handle the associated difficulties will determine whether an open relationship fits you best.
The Wild Robot
Inolonger feel the imperative to see and review every animated feature that comes along, but Chris Sanders’ The Wild Robot is exceptional in every way. It embraces a wide range of emotions and somehow manages to keep cynicism at bay.
Based on a book by Peter Crown, The Wild Robot enables us to watch the equivalent of a classic fairy tale unfolding, beat by beat. Its main character is a futuristic robot (whose deliberately imperfect rendering differentiates her from earlier animated droids like The Iron Giant and Wall*E.) Following a disastrous crash landing on a remote island, this malfunctioning machine—with a female voice and personality— becomes the unlikely mother figure to an orphaned hatchling who imprints on her from the moment he opens his little eyes. Amidst the fauna on the island, a wiseguy fox becomes her sidekick.
With no sense of following an agenda, the movie embraces primal feelings of loneliness, attachment, friendship, loyalty, and kindness while doling out smart, funny gags involving faceless Big Brother-ish corporations, global warming, and the need for all different species to find a way to get along.
Lupita Nyong’o delivers a beautifully nuanced performance as the robot Roz, perfectly matched by Pedro Pascal as the cunning fox named Fink. As the gosling grows up, he is played by Kit Connor, and if your ears are welltuned, they may recognise other actors like Bill Nighy, Ving Rhames and Catherine O’Hara along the way. However, there is no sense of “stunt casting” or drawing on these actors’ perceived personalities; they are all working in service of the film.
The Wild Robot is a genuinely beautiful movie in every sense of that adjective. Its production design is impressive, to say the least, but there are no weak links in its chain, from character design to its exquisitely rendered environment. Sanders and DeBlois put together an A-list team of colleagues to help them realise their vision for this picture. One of them, the gifted composer Kris Bowers, also brings his A-game to the project.
If you don’t have children, don’t feel funny about going to a cinema to experience The Wild Robot. As you brush away a tear, you’ll thank me for recommending it.
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
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WATCH OF THE WEEK
5 NOLLYWOOD FILMS I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED
Independence Day was Tuesday last week. I spent the day doing what I always do: watching a lot of movies. In the spirit of the occasion, I focused on Nollywood and was thoroughly entertained by nearly everything I saw. I thought I’d use this opportunity to give you five of the best ones I saw. I’ll also add where I saw them in case you want to tune in as well.
1. Country Hard (2021)
A crime drama written and directed by Paul Utomi, this film revolves around seven strangers whose paths connect in a manner that might affect their lives forever. In a desperate conversation with Jubril (Paul Utomi), Chima (Timini Egbuson) paints Nigeria as a ‘sea of sadness’, and that is what director Utomi set out to convey in Country Hard. This film is a montage that depicts a day in the lives of seven different individuals whose lives intersect in myriad fascinating ways. Country Hard is a well-thought-out and written flick with top-quality cinematography work by Kayode Kasum. (Available on Amazon Prime Video)
2. Shina (2023)
4. Juju Stories (2021)
Juju Stories is a three-part anthology of magical horror films written and directed by The Surreal16 Collective. Inspired by Nigerian folklore and urban legends, the movie Love Potion, directed by Michael Omonua, tells the story of a woman who uses juju to win back her recalcitrant lover. Yam, directed by Abba T. Makama, follows a street thug (who has picked up some cash on the street) and a vulcanizer (who is about to make an immoral decision), revealing the seedier side of Lagos. In addition, C.J. Obasi’s Suffer the Witch portrays a college student who draws the interest of a witch. Juju Stories’s dedication to quality filmmaking and telling Nigerian-inspired stories makes it stand out.
5. Eyimofe (2020)
Written and directed by Arie and Chuko Esiri, Eyimofe (This is my Desire) contains two touching narratives set in Lagos. It follows the lives of Mofe, a mechanic, and Rosa, a hairdresser, and their struggle to leave Nigeria in quest of a better life abroad. Their plights are emblematic of the desire of everyday Nigerians to japa Eyimofe has a strong association between social status, financial resources, gender identity, and family composition at the bottom of the social ladder. As central as the struggle to leave the country is, it is but one aspect of this film in which the subjects of the plot have to endure several misfortunes.
(Available on Amazon Prime Video)
If you’ve ever hopped in a taxi or Uber in Lagos, you know the drivers have got stories for days! They’ve seen and heard it all; sometimes, they’re even part of it all. Shina takes that familiar scenario and cranks it up. Timini Egbuson is absolutely magnetic as Shina, a young Uber driver whose life takes a wild turn when he agrees to deliver a mysterious package. What starts as a simple gig quickly spirals into a highstakes adventure filled with danger, intrigue, and a surprising amount of heart. Egbuson captures the essence of a true Lagos hustler perfectly – charismatic, resourceful, and always ready with a quick quip.
(Available on Netflix)
3. 76 (2016)
(Available on Amazon Prime Video)
If you enjoy historical fiction, then 76 is the movie you want to see. Set in the pre-civil war era, this film tells the story of a young officer, Joseph Dewa, who gets romantically involved with a student, Suzanne, from the East. Their relationship is strained due to constant military postings and a lack of approval from his wife’s parents. Joseph gets accused of participating in the unsuccessful 1976 military coup and assassination of General Murtala Mohammed. Suzanne, however, fights for his innocence. Directed by Izu Ojukwu, this political drama stars Ramsey Noah, Rita Dominic, and Chidi Mokeme.
