THINKING ALOUD
ISSUE
8 A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE publication of rehoboth dream solid foundation (rdsf)
OCT - DEC 2019
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A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
CONTENTS
Cover Photo: Adetola Juyitan
Dr. Folasade Hunsu Department of English, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
Mr. Patrick Edebor Editorial/publishing consultant. Owner, Patrick Edebor and Associates.
Mr. Akin Adejuwon Curator, Institute of Cultural Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
Dr. Mrs Olayinka Opadiya Senior Pastor, Every Nation Church Sydney Australia.
Mrs. Abimbola Komolafe Founder/Executive Director, Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Rear Admiral (Rtd) Oladeinde Joseph , Chairman, Board of Trustees Pharm. Samson Igbokwe Mrs Roseline Igbokwe Mrs Ronke Osikoya Ms Ketumi Alasa Pastor (Dr) Joshua Opadiya Dr (Mrs) Yinka Opadiya Mrs Abimbola Komolafe Rear Admiral (Rtd) K O Komolafe
Editor Bimbo Komolafe
Publication & Design Benjamin Eze
Project Manager Tomi Olatunde
Project Team Edison Egere Othniel Komolafe Eunice Olatunji Celestina Osiki
@2019. Thinking Aloud Magazine, a publication of Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non -commercial uses permitted by copyright law.
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EDITORIAL
ISSUE
8
OCT - DEC 2019
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the Q4- 2019 edition of the Thinking Aloud Magazine produced by the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation (RDSF). Our cover story in this edition features the inspiring story of Adetola Juyitan, a trained banker turned Entrepreneur. She shares her journey to the business world as well as her experience as the immediate past president of JCI Nigeria, an organization with a mission to create positive change by providing development opportunities that empower young people. The “RDSF Success Story” features Leslie Smart Abiola, a past beneficiary of RDSF whose academic goals almost succumbed to the death of his father while he was in college. His story will encourage you. He says ‘…RDSF does more than paying your fees, they monitor you, they set you straight, they make you want to improve on yourself….’.,, The Finance Coach Column highlights ‘Money mistakes to avoid in the new year’ while our Health and Fitness columns both focus on the importance of Water for good health and staying fit. Watch out for a special feature introducing members of the ‘TA magazine production team’ who work tirelessly to ensure every edition meets your expectations. As usual, sit back and have a delightful reading experience. Remember to share the magazine with your loved ones, as there is something interesting in there for everyone. Send your comments on any of the featured articles to ThinkingAloudPublication@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
Bimbo Komolafe Editor connect with us on social media | thinkingaloudmagazine
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“
When you honour people and treat them with kindness, it is literally as though you are doing the same for God Himself.” – Robert Barriger
HONOUR IS A BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE The subject of honour is at the core and foundation of Christianity. Therefore, it is a relevant consideration in our all relationships. God is a God of honour. The concept of honour is at the heart of who God is. He asked in Malachi 1:6, “If I am your Father and master, where then is my honour?” As Christians, to honour God means that we would never intentionally do anything that will bring embarrassment or disgrace to the name of the God we serve. This is a question upon which we must ponder; “Where is God’s honour in our relationships?’ How are we honouring God in the way we relate to significant people, God has placed in our lives? The culture and quality of honour are fast disappearing as fewer and fewer people are living by the code of honour in their relationships and dealings. I have seen children acting disrespectfully towards their parents and significantly older people in the permissive society we now live. I have seen fathers exasperating their children; treating them with disdain because their word is law that must be obeyed, and the culture dictates that the elder cannot be told they are wrong. I have seen husbands dishonouring their wives—treating them like tools they own to provide food and pleasure. I have seen wives disrespecting their husbands in words and actions. I have seen sibling rivalry transmitted from one generation to the other. And I wonder, where is the culture of honour God expects in the lives of those who claim to be submitted to His lordship. I believe that God designed honour to go in both directions. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
WHAT DOES HONOUR MEAN? Honour, like love, is a verb and, therefore an action word. Honour requires action. Honour is active. To honour someone is to express value, esteem, consideration, and weight that elevates the object of our honour. Honour is a quality of character involving honesty, respect and doing what is morally correct. Practicing the honour principle requires us to do what is right by God’s standard of rightness. Honour means to accord due weight and significance to someone or something. It has to do with recognizing the value of the person and seeing them through the love of God. Honouring God in our relationships and all our dealings require faith and selfless commitment. To dishonour means to take something lightly or to confer no worth or value to that person. Dishonour means to treat someone with lack of respect and to devalue the person. One of the ways to show honour is to remember and to show gratitude for the sacrifices and contributions of the person you honour. It is a recognition of the importance accorded to the individual. How would it modulate your attitude and action if you consider your spouse, your siblings, your parents, and even your children as the sons and daughter of God who He loves with an everlasting, faithful, protective, and passionate love? In this article, I will discuss honouring God in our marriage and our parent-children relationships. I believe that if we get the concept of honour right at the family level, it will ultimately shape our conduct in the public and marketplace. A child that is raised in a home where the father and mother treat each other with honour of God is more likely to go out to honour and respect all other constituted authorities. | 5 |
HONOURING GOD IN MARRIAGE One of the most critical decisions we will make in life is who we marry. A good marriage can bring happiness, joy, security, true friendship, companionship and honour to God. The wrong marriage partner can literally destroy our life and bring nothing but misery, poverty, stress, dishonour, and might even ruin our health.
express what the couple desire to create in their relationship.
Love cannot be without honour. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly and mutual love; try to outdo yourselves in respect and show eagerness in honouring one another.” (Romans 12:10).
Even in situations where the standard vows are to be shared, it is essential to take time to study it and know what you are committing yourself to. You will also note that God is called in to witness the vows if the marriage is being celebrated in the church. These vows are promises that the couple is willing to commit to working hard to honour and keep in their marriage. It is a commitment to one another come what may. These vows remain sacred and unchanging through the changing seasons of the marriage.
In a God-honouring showing honour to expression of love is the other. To prefer
marriage, we must be the best in each other. The most significant the willingness to sacrifice self for the other person and to act in the
Honouring God in our marriage requires us to honour each other. How well are you honouring God in your marriage when things are not going your way, when you are unhappy about something or when you are upset
best interest of the other person. This is the definition of honour and love in Marriage.
with your spouse? Do you still remember the honour code when you cannot have what you want, when you want it? Honouring God is not only when things are fine and rosy. Honouring God is even more important in difficult and challenging times. That is when our decision and desire to honour God in our lives and relationships are tested.
The second point to note is that marriage is a lifetime covenant contract between God, a husband, and a wife. So do not marry someone that you do not plan to live with for all of your life. You do not marry with the mindset of a plan B if you are to honour God and His wishes in your marriage. Honouring the Marriage Vows At the center of any marriage ceremony are the vows. They are the words the couple says to each other which express both an intent and a promise. Whether we are aware of it at the time of taking the vows or not, the vows shape the foundation of the marriage. Therefore they should be carefully chosen so that they most accurately
“Do nothing for selfish purposes, but with humility, think of others (your spouse) better than yourself. Instead of watching out for your own good, watch out for what is better for others (your spouse).” Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity. Don’t allow self-promotion to hide in your hearts, but in authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourself. This is an application of Philippians 2:3-4 in a marriage that seeks to honour God. | 6 |
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Love does not dishonour others. It is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered. It keeps no record of wrong. Love does not traffic in shame and disrespect. It does not selfishly seek its own honour. Love is not easily irritated or quick to take offense. Love honours others by treating them as valuable and important (1Corinthians 13). Love sees the other persons as God sees them--someone worth sending Jesus to die for. Love is courteous. Love shows respect. God-honouring love will lead you to respect your spouse as your fellow-heirs with Jesus and as God’s precious person. Imagine what our marriage will be like if we love and honour our spouses, as described above. Imagine how this will make godly marriage attractive to not only our children but also others in our sphere of influence. Pause and ponder on this.
PARENTS AND CHILDREN RELATIONSHIP Children are instructed to honour their father and mother. If God be our Father in Heaven, how much more should we honour Him? Where then is His honour? "Honour your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise (Ephesians 6: 3 and Deut. 5:16). When we honour our parents, it adds life to us. Honouring your father and mother is God’s prescription to avoid heading down the road of rebellion with its destructive consequences and living in the blessings of God, who rewards honour. It is an instruction concerning our conduct and actions. Honouring parents is a form of honouring all authority, THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
including God himself. As Tim Keller says, “it is respect for parents that is the basis for every other kind of respect and every other kind of authority.” We honour them through obedience, in the way we respect and esteem them, and also in the way we forgive them when they hurt us. There are no perfect parents. It is on the job training. We honour our parents when we speak well of them, and refuse to speak evil of them, no matter what they have done to hurt us. We dishonour them when we air our grievances publicly in a disrespectful manner. There are penalties in the Bible for assaulting your parents. When we seek their wisdom and counsel, we confer on them significance and value, which elevates them to a place of honour in our lives. We honour our parents
when we take care of them in their old age no matter how wealthy or well-to-do, they may be. It gives parents an indescribable joy to share stories of how well their children are taking care of them. The promised blessing of a long life is given to those who show honour. Because God designed honour to be in two directions, parents also have responsibilities that depict their honour of God in their relationship with their children. It is the responsibility of the parents to teach their children to honour and respect the Lord. “I have chosen Abraham so that he may command his sons and his descendants to obey me and do what is right and just…” (Genesis 18:19). Parents, you have been chosen by God to teach your children what is right, good and just. It is responsibility conferred by God, and to Him you will account. | 7 |
Fathers are specifically admonished not exasperate to resentment or provoke their children to anger by excessively coming down hard on them. Fathers are to take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master and to raise them with discipline and godly instructions (Ephesians 6:4). Making unreasonable demands or humiliating and abusing your children dishonours them and also dishonours God. Pulling them down in public and shaming them before others dishonours God and the father who is doing the shaming. Every father must recognize that God has given him authority in his home and that God has established him as a ruler in his home. This God-given authority is not meant to be oppressive but to use this authority to bring out the best in every member of his family. In that position, the father imposes righteous standards by which his members of his family will live. It is a God-given authority. And it is the responsibility of the father supported by the mother to teach members of the family to honour the Lord, to share the commandments of the Lord at home, to remember to obey, and to serve the Lord. As part of honouring God, a good father is expected to leave a legacy for his children, to the third and fourth generation. It is not just about material legacy, but a legacy of a good name and character. Such a legacy can only be built gradually and over time, with trust, patience, commitment, and diligence. No one who wishes to honour God in this regard will squander his wealth on things that have no eternal value. Such a man will also be diligent in raising his children in the fear and honour of God so that they build on the father’s legacy and not squander it. REWARDS AND BENEFITS OF HONOURING There are rewards and benefits for honouring God in our relationships. The Bible says “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear and honour, and those who worship Him with reverence and obedience, to guard, protect, rescue and deliver from danger.” If you honour God, He will send His angels to surround and defend them. There are significant consequences of what we honour in life. Are you honouring God by honouring those God has placed in your life especially those who you are in relationships with? Are you taking your relationships lightly as if they are of no value? The truth we can never do away with is that, God will honour those who honour Him in their lives, in their relationships and all their dealings.
Dr. Irene Titilola Olumese, is an inspirational speaker and the founder of The Feet of Grace Foundation. She speaks and writes to inspire hope; she is the Author of Grace In The Storms: A Living Proof. She worked as a Nutrition Specialist with United Nations Children’s Funds (UNICEF) for fifteen years in three countries – Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt. She currently manages the Hands of Grace Creations. She is married to Dr. Peter Olumese and they are blessed with two children.
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As
you look ahead to year 2020, it is important to look back at how well you have done in your quest to attain financial freedom and to grow your wealth. This article will discuss some mistakes often made by people which hinder their desire to attain financial independence. Let me start by emphasising the need for YOU to ‘take ACTION’. If you acquire financial knowledge and do nothing with it, your desire to be in control of your finances will be just a dream. Merriam Webster Dictionary defines taking action as ‘to do something: to act in order to get a particular result.’ Oxford Dictionary defines it as ‘to do something official or concerted to achieve an aim or deal with a problem.’ As I highlight and discuss 10 of the numerous mistakes people make, I want to point out that personal discipline, determination and resilience are key characteristics needed if you want to succeed in attaining your personal financial goals. Therefore, you must be determined to do what is required in order to be financially free. 1. Not having a financial plan for the year. Cambridge dictionary defines Financial plan as ‘a plan
made by a person or organization about their income, spending, etc’. Every person who desires to have financial freedom and grow his wealth must work with a plan. The need for you to work with a plan cannot be over emphasised. If you fail to Plan, then you are planning to Fail! Your financial plan is what gives direction to your efforts and provides the needed guidance for your choices. Your financial plan is the detailed proposal for achieving your financial goals. If you want a robust plan, you need to start by identifying your financial goals i.e., what you want to achieve, where and how you want to end up. Do you want to ensure your salary covers your immediate THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
needs till the next pay day? Do you want to pay off certain debts? Do you want to acquire some assets? Or acquire additional academic or professional certifications? These are examples of financial goals. Once you have identified your financial goals, your financial plan will then outline the steps you need to take to achieve them. Most people who struggle to stay financially afloat often work without a plan and make unguided choices that are not aligned to their financial goals. This is one mistake to avoid by anyone who wants to be in control of his/her finances. As part of your 2020 financial plan, set a savings and a spending target for yourself. This way you can direct expected funds appropriately. 2. Not working with a budget. If you want to be successful at effectively managing your finances, you need to work with a ‘budget’. A budget will show your expected cash inflow and planned outflow for a specified budget period (for a month, quarter or year). It ensures you plan for all expected funds thus making the most of your financial resources. Preparing your budget also helps you understand your money and thus have better control over your financial circumstances. People who work with budgets find it easier to exercise financial discipline as their decisions are guided by their budgets. Without a guide, you cannot measure performance. With your budget, you can check compliance and areas you have deviated from your plan. Don’t make the mistake of spending without a budget, as working with a budget is fundamental and very important in having control over your money. When you don’t have a budget, you won’t maximize opportunities to save, you will struggle to deal with surprise expenses, and you can easily get into debt. | 9 |
Everyone needs a budget; if you are struggling financially, it is a tool that can help you become more organized and ultimately become financially fit. If you are wealthy, it is a necessary tool to ensure you retain and grow your wealth. Creating a Budget is the best gift all hard working people can give themselves. Finally, Do WRITE out the budget. Don’t budget in your head! 3. Don’t fail to TRACK your expenses and keep good financial records To be in control of your finances in 2020, you must keep good records and track all your expenses. This is important as these records form the basis for tracking and analysing performance against your budget and financial plan. When you track your expenses, you can see what your money is being spent on. Tracking your money gives you more awareness of your spending habits and what you are spending on. Tracking will help you see the result of your financial choices and habits. If you don’t know where your money has been spent, you will not be able to identify your pressure points and make necessary changes. Tracking can be easily achieved by recording expenses in a dedicated notebook or a simple spreadsheet. This simple action will help you achieve your goal of financial excellence and success. Keeping good financial records also requires you to effectively use financial statements such as your bank statements and utility receipts and statements. Don’t ignore these statements. Make deliberate efforts to periodically review these statements for accuracy. 4. Not discussing finances with your Partner. If you are in a serious relationship, whether married or about to get married, it is important to discuss your money goals and financial targets with your partner. You will be more effective at achieving Financial freedom if you and your partner are fully aligned on money matters. You should have a conversation about what your priorities will be in the coming year and how you intend to achieve them. It is important to discuss and agree on what your savings and investment targets will be. Develop your financial plan and create a budget together. You will both be committed to making the budget work, if you draw it up together. You will then have the same understanding about the reason and basis for your financial choices and decisions. Your financial freedom is incomplete if you have financial discipline while your partner is reckless. 5. Do Not BORROW to finance wrong things. One money mistake to avoid is ‘borrowing for the wrong reason’. Financial excellence requires that if you must borrow at all, it should be to fund an investment that will
grow in value or that will generate income in the long run. This is classified as GOOD Borrowing while BAD borrowing is debt incurred to purchase something that adds no value or will quickly lose value. Do not borrow to fund frivolities or to ‘keep up with the Joneses’; i.e. to live above your means while emulating others. Spend at your level. Let your expenses be determined by what you earn and can afford. Set a rule not to buy something unless you can afford it. Weddings, birthdays and funeral expenses are better contained at the level you can afford, and you should never borrow to host elaborate parties. 6. Do Not INVEST if you do not understand. One money mistake often made is to commit to an investment opportunity without fully understanding the scenario. Every business/investment opportunity comes with measured risks which must be well reviewed and checked before investing. Where an opportunity offers unbelievable returns, it is a red flag and you must ask enough questions.
If you don’t understand, don’t invest! Seek expert advice if required. Though it is important to take investment decisions promptly to avoid losses, this does not mean you should take decisions without having full information. You must ensure you have answers to all your questions. Only take investment decisions when you have all the answers. 7. Avoid telling yourself financial lies It is a money mistake to deceive yourself about the state of your financial wellbeing or about your financial weaknesses. Don’t deceive yourself about the level of your financial knowledge, otherwise you make choices based on wrong information. Do not also deceive yourself on the bad money habits you are struggling with. When you lie to yourself, these lies becloud the reality of your money habits and the true condition of your finances stalling your progress towards financial freedom. Be honest with yourself and set a target to drop your negative money habits. You must also be honest about the state of your finances. When you fail to assess your circumstances to know the truth about your finances, you stand a higher risk of remaining in financial bondage. Everyone desiring financial freedom is advised to examine their records and know what they own and what they owe. Take an honest assessment of your finances and build on that. Knowing the net of this position will give you a fair knowledge of how well you are doing and will guide your steps and decisions. Rich people are honest to themselves and take responsibility for their money errors and weaknesses, while those that blame others for their misfortunes remain in financial bondage. | 10 |
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8. Avoid Wasting your TIME Time is a precious resource and available equally to everyone. Everyone has 24 hours in a day and it is often said that the difference between a rich and a poor man is the way each applies his time. Create a plan for your time and highlight what you want to accomplish with your time. Having set a financial plan, every step should take you towards what you want to achieve. One mistake to avoid in the new year is inadequate compensation for your time and labour. This means you should seek and commit to the employment that pays you the most out of your available options. Where possible, combine two or more options to make the most of the available working hours in a day. If in paid employment, you owe your employer your hours while at work. However, your non work hours belong to you and are available for your use. Apply yourself in these extra hours to earn some extra money. There is a better chance of coping with financial responsibilities and pressures when you earn more money. Always tell yourself, you are losing money when you are wasting your time. 9. Don’t miss paying yourself first Do not pay yourself last. Learn to pay yourself first by putting some money into your savings account. No matter what you earn, put something away as savings. Most people say “how can I save anything when my pay packet is not enough to meet my immediate needs”. Tell yourself that if you are earning 80 per cent of your current pay, you will still find a way to survive. Saving requires making sacrifices and being disciplined. It also requires you to work with a budget. Simple budgeting ahead of your next pay goes a long way in helping you to save. Allocating funds to the different classes of bills would be helpful in identifying excesses. Learn to allocate funds to basic expenses like food, transport, utilities, entertainment, miscellaneous and see the window for possible savings. One way to save is from unexpected financial bonuses and gifts. Instead of applying the entire bonus or gift to long-standing desires, you can save a percentage. There are numerous benefits of saving. Savings help you when you have emergencies and unexpected financial needs. It also gives you a cushion if you suddenly lose your job. You can make better financial decisions because you are more confident knowing you have back-up funds. Your savings can also be eventually used to pay for a desired asset (e.g. car, house or shares etc). 10. Don’t mix personal funds with Business funds It is a financial error to mix your personal funds with your business funds. This is a mistake to avoid if you want to achieve financial excellence. You must set clear boundaries around your business funds. Open different bank accounts for your business to ensure that business related cashflow is properly monitored and managed. If you pool both funds together, there is the big risk of applying business funds to personal needs and vice versa. It means you should also have separate and clear ‘personal financial plan and budget’ different from your ‘business financial plan and budget’. The easiest way to enforce a boundary between your business finances and your personal finances is to place yourself on a salary. By paying yourself a salary, you know that only your salary can be withdrawn from the business. When salary is due, you should take money from your business bank account and transfer it to your personal bank account as if you were working for somebody else. This will ensure you only take approved money out of your business and leave room for your business to grow. Bimbo Komolafe FCA, FCIB writes from Lagos and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers. For more tips from the Finance Coach, follow her on: Instagram: @financecoachtoday Twitter: @financecoachbk Email: financecoachtoday@gmail.com Website: www.financecoachbk.com Facebook: Finance Coach Money and Wealth THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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I
quit my job and it’s been an amazing two weeks since.
whenever I think about it, it always feels like I started working a little too early.
I’ve read a lot about people who quit their jobs for a variety of reasons. I always thought them to be brave, strong and confident, especially those who quit a paying job for a non-paying endeavour or those who do just because the job began to feel inadequate, even without having any plans. A job, for most people, consumes more than half of their entire adult life. A 2007 study found that humans spend one-third of their life working leaving two-third to everything else — sleep, family, , religion etc.
My daily commute was and is hectic, as it is usually in Lagos, but for my first job, I didn’t pay it much mind. I was excited to finally have a job after the countless speeches I had heard from parents and teachers alike — “There are no jobs in Nigeria anymore”, “Take
Inconsequential if you’re a 9–5er, a CEO or whatever category you might fall under, chances are you lose sleep, miss out on important family time amongst several other things just because of work. It’s what the world is today. A good job should translate to getting paid which should, in turn, translate to a better life but unfortunately, that’s not the case for many who toil away trying to make ends meet and dream of living a better life, a dream that never materializes.
whatever it is you get”, “You might have to start a business”. A job as a software engineer fresh out of school was a blessing, I could not complain. Of the three, it was one which was an opportunity for career development, monetary compensation (not so much and as I would come to realize). After just one month of working, I began to realize I did not quite enjoy the work I was doing for a number of reasons. This made work hectic and monotonous.
For me, a good job should have three main things — good compensation (money, owo, kudi + benefits), opportunities for career development and growth and it should be fun. The order of these things will be determined by the individual but nonetheless, all three should be present.
Waking up at odd hours to leave for work became even more gruelling knowing I was going to the office to do uninteresting work. I stayed on at the job hoping things would get better for some reason. It never did. On the day I quit, I went to work as usual, barely did anything while I was there and left, five hours before closing time. It was not the best way to handle the situation but it had to be done to protect my sanity. The job stopped providing any of the three important things and there was no reason to stay any longer.
I graduated just over a year ago, and since then I’ve had the opportunity to work as a software engineer at two different places, each with its own unique culture, value propositions and offerings of the three things listed above. However, from both places, I quit for very similar reasons. I started working just a month after graduation without getting any time to chill and prepare, prepare for what exactly, I do not know but
Two weeks later, I had gotten another job, taking into consideration all of what made me quit at the previous job before acceptance and everything seemed to check out. There was much better culture, environment was more enabling, the people were so much cooler, the compensation was although not the best, much better and the chances for development were even better and as I came to realize, I enjoyed every last minute of it. It was a perfect fit.
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My daily commute remained the same, I still got very few hours of sleep but waking up to the knowledge that I was going to meet the best co-workers, work on the most exciting things and get paid well for it made it a little more bearable. As you might have guessed, and as I have been told by many people, I am a workaholic, so it made me excited that I was getting a ton of work to do. As time went on, the most exciting thing about going to work became less the work and more of the people — I worked with the most amazing people. I loved the job, everything about it. But in all of this, I still hardly got any rest. I hardly ever took holidays, I worked even while I was at home and it started to tell. In the last few months, I’d get to work drowsy and exhausted, unable to work at peak performance. Work became slow, not too slow for anyone else to notice, because I got the job done regardless but I could feel it. I drudged on, it was a great job and I did not want to lose it. Three months before I quit, that’s when everything began to fall apart. The company (it’s a startup) started running low on finances to the point they could not afford salaries. Many people had to be laid off and many others had to leave by themselves, no more amazing coworkers. About 70% of staff left the company and it only got worse from there. No salaries, no amazing coworkers and work became significantly less fun. It still offered opportunities for career development but that was not enough reason for me to stay. Eventually, like with company A, waking up became more of a chore and I did not want to be there anymore. I went through due process this time and sent in a resignation letter one month before I was to leave. I had been applying to multiple other
places in that time and gotten offers from all of them so getting a new job was never going to be a problem for me. I also do not like being at home too long .
company or not. It is why I made sure to visit all companies that made me an offer to observe their culture before making a decision on which to join. 2. Co-workers: I used to be a lone ranger, an introvert; I kept my interactions with people to a minimum especially as relating to work because I always felt I could accomplish more without “unnecessary input” from anyone else. “Too many cooks spoil the broth” goes the popular saying eh? Working with a variety of intelligent people with different characters bringing different perspectives in their contributions has made me rethink my standing. Great teammates make working much more fun, because as much as we like to ask that relations with colleagues at work remain professional, humans are very social beings and there would always be more to relations together than work. At my last job, we’d watch Game of Thrones together, discuss everything that happened on Twitter together, go out to get Pizza together while also keeping up with our professional responsibilities. 3. Prioritize Compensation, Development and Fun: In your first few jobs, some of these might be lacking but as you go on, it is important to make sure that before taking any job, all of these things exist and in the priority you have defined for yourself. Prioritization of these things also helps in the case where a decision between multiple options is to be made. I can say this for certain because I was faced with the challenge just recently. I picked the job offer that fell in line with my priority the most and I feel content. I start a new job in 2 weeks (because I have no selfcontrol and I always want to work) at a place I’ve always wanted to. It’s a dream come true. Till then, I’m going to keep enjoying the peace and quiet of being home with little to no stress.
I’ve been at home for two weeks now since I quit and I cannot remember the last time I was this relaxed. I sleep much better, I’m much more productive than I was in the weeks before and life is a lot less gloomy. It goes to show the impact a job can have on your wellbeing. Few things I’ve learned from the two jobs (these are subjective): 1. The importance of company culture: The culture of a company is one of the most obvious pointers to how good (or bad) a job is or would be. From things as big as company policies on how workers are treated and managed to things as seemingly trivial as the office setup (closed vs open spaces) and the dress code (casual vs corporate), the culture of a company is a reflective lens with which to determine how you would enjoy working at the
Ifeoluwa Sobogun is a software engineer with many interests that translates into the kind of literature he reads and subsequently, his writing. He enjoys reading and writing fiction, and on social topics. He believes writing is a tool that can educate the society on such issues as feminism, oppression amongst other things. You can find some of his writing on Medium https://medium.com/@hackthievist. | 13 |
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1) Tell us about your family/educational background I was born in Lagos and I have lived there most of my life. However, my state of Origin is Ondo State. My childhood was a blend of good memories with tough times but, it has turned out well. I graduated with a B.Sc. Accounting from the University of Ado Ekiti (now called Ekiti State University). I furthered my education to obtain an MBA from the prestigious Lincoln University, California, USA. I am also a certified John C. Maxwell Trainer. 2) You started your career as a banker, how was that phase of your life and how was your rise up the ranks in the industry? Indeed, I started out as a banker and I must confess, I had a swell time in that field but like every other profession, it came with its own challenges. I spent about a decade and half in the Nigerian banking industry. I spent about 13 years with Zenith Bank Plc and later moved to UBA where I was the branch manager of one of the triple -A rated Business Offices in Lagos. During my career as a banker, I was able to rise through the ranks. This was not an easy feat, as the competition was stiff but due to my consistency, proactiveness, productivity and the “God-factor”, I was able to achieve all that I achieved.
4) Tell us about your business lines. What is the Glitz business group about? How big is your business? Staff strength etc Glitz group is a conglomerate of several ventures which include Glitz Occasions/Glitz Event Centre, Glitz Garages, Glitz Business Services, Glitz Entertainment & Promotions, Glitz Food & Beverages, Glitz Homes, Glitz Morphosis Foundation and a host of others, all properly registered. Glitz Occasions is an event management company which provides event services ranging from planning, organizing to hosting of events. For hosting, our marquees are specially designed to provide all that is needed to give you a successful event. Glitz Occasion was opened to the public on the 3rd of October, 2016. It comprises two ultramodern marquees, central air conditioning systems, well-furnished VIP suites, entertainment technology systems, professional performance stage, silent standby generators, ample car parking space for about 200 vehicles and a whole lot more. Glitz Garages handles all vehicle services like oven bake, wheel balancing and alignment, just to mention a few. All the companies in the group (as their names imply) have different areas of businesses that they focus on; so yes, you’d be correct to say that I’m a serial entrepreneur.
“Entrepreneurship has been a part of me from childhood. It was a passion for me.”
5) How did you start exploring the entrepreneur in you? 3) What motivated you to leave a thriving career in the banking industry to become an entrepreneur? Entrepreneurship has been a part of me right from childhood. It was a passion for me. I had so many times in the past engaged in several petty businesses so it was really not odd that I decided at some point to become a full time entrepreneur. More so, I believe that we are all cut out for different paths in life, not all of us will turn out to be full-time career persons, bank CEOs etc so for me, I only ventured into who/what I believe I was made for. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
Sequel to what I said earlier on, right from a young age, I had a passion for entrepreneurship/business. Hence, I had ventured in several petty businesses even while in the higher institution. All along, I knew I would do quite well as an entrepreneur as I had been learning consciously and unconsciously the skills needed to succeed as an entrepreneur. I traded from time to time and ran several small businesses both personally and by way of joint ventures. | 16 |
8) You have achieved a whole lot in a short amount of time, how have you managed to stay grounded? I am constantly reminded of Proverbs 11:2 - "when pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”. This has helped me stay levelheaded. 9) What other surprises should we expect from you? What are your plans for expansion? Of course, there are plans for expansion for each of the businesses. We have plans to expand our services to the four corners of the country and soon that will begin to materialize. Expect some fresh ideas and new businesses also. A few new collaborations as well. 6) How has the journey evolved so far? what setbacks have you faced and how did you move past them? Honestly, just like every other great and successful business, there will always be challenges. However, the key is to expect them and be prepared to face them. At a point, I had issues with delegating and I needed that skill to move forward as I couldn't do everything myself. Along the line, it seemed every time I delegated a task, something goes wrong and I have to attend to it myself. As time went by, I learnt to get the best people for a job description no matter the cost; I also learnt to sometimes accept the results that people are able to offer particularly when it’s obvious that they’ve put their best into the assignment even if it could have been better. I have by different ways, learnt to delegate. 7) What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs out there who look up to you? Indeed, the entrepreneurship journey isn’t a bed of roses. My advice to young entrepreneurs is to remain focused, determined and most important, embrace patience in any business line they pursue. Rome was not built in a day and every successful entrepreneur started from somewhere. Of course, there will be challenges but be persistent and never give up on your dream.
10) Who are your mentors? Well, over the years, I have had so many mentors (for/in different areas of life) and they have all played a huge role in my life. 11) What do you see as the place of mentoring in building a successful business as an entrepreneur? Mentorship is vital and its importance cannot be overemphasized. In building a successful business, mentorship is pertinent. The mentors one chooses are those that have trod the same line of business one is going through. Since, they have gone ahead, they can guide, advice and proffer solutions to an entrepreneur to help avoid the mistakes that can be made. Beyond entrepreneurship, mentorship in other areas of life is also important. 12) Do you have any mentoring programme to assist younger entrepreneurs and business owners? There is no structured programme for now but I am a huge fan of mentorship, and as I said earlier, it is vital so I try my best possible to add a new mentee under my care from time to time. I currently mentor so many young ladies and the Glitz Morphosis Foundation is currently working on a structured approach to best manage this. 13) There is a young girl out there saying if Adetola can do this, I can do this too. What is the one important advice you will give to her.
“Every successful entrepreneur started from somewhere. Of course, there will be challenges but be persistent and never give up on your dream.”
That young girl should keep believing in herself, stay focused, determined and persevere always. It’s also very important to stay positive. She will achieve her dreams in due time! Gender has nothing to do with Success so she should believe in herself and know that if she can dream it, then she can achieve it. | 17 |
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“Take everything you see on social media with a pinch of salt. People only share what would make them look good in the eyes of others”
15) My JCI Journey?
In 2016, I was elected as National Vice President overseeing local organizations in Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti state. In 2017, I was elected National Executive Vice President for the Local Organizations in the North-West region of N Nigeria. In 2018, I was appointed Executive Assistant (for Africa and the Middle East) to the JCI World President. In 2018, I also doubled as the Chairperson for the permanent Secretariat Team. Afterwards, I was elected 2019 JCI Nigeria President.
I joined JCI over 20 years ago at Ekiti State University. I served in different board capacities until I graduated.
16) We are aware of your involvement with JCI. Can you share the mission of JCI and how JCI gives back to the society?
In 2011, I joined JCI Ikoyi where I also served in various capacities at the board level.
The Mission of JCI is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. JCI gives back to the society through several means.
14) What drives/motivates you? The passion to be a change-maker and make positive impacts around me drives me a lot. That’s one of the reasons I joined Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria. JCI gave me the platform to fulfil this ambition. The fact that I cannot think of staying a failure also drives me to continue to strive and push till I record success in whatever my hands find to do.
Later on, I co-founded JCI Victoria Island and served as the Charter President. In 2014, I served as the Conference Director for JCI Nigeria Southwest Conference in Lagos. A year later, I was appointed as the Team Chairperson for the JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
One of which is by executing community development projects through our various Local Organizations (Chapters) across the country; our projects are always in alignment with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and are always focused on IMPACT! | 18 |
17) You are the outgoing President of JCI Nigeria What leadership lessons did you learn during your tenure? Well, of course, a good number of them. • Everything rises and falls on Leadership; therefore, I had to take responsibility and ownership for the Organization. • Don’t wait to respond or throw stones to every dog that barks at you while journeying; keep going and stay focused. • Choose your battles; not every battle is worth fighting neither is it necessary to fight every single battle. Silence itself, is sometimes, a strong weapon of war. • People are like seeds, it’s the leader’s job to plant the seeds, water them, and watch them grow. Neglect the seed and it won’t grow. Leave it once it becomes a plant, and it will die. So, it is highly vital that you nourish and help those who follow you to grow. It’s part of the journey of being a leader.
best shot and left JCI Nigeria better than she met it.”.
“I just want to be remembered for having given my all to the organisation, after my tenure as President of JCI Nigeria”
18) How does Glitz give back to the society? Do you have current projects or future plans for this? We partner with JCI and Freedom Foundation a whole lot in executing community projects and people-rehabilitation; as we truly believe in the impact that the mission of these organizations can have on the world. We also have some CSR projects in the pipeline that we would be unveiling soon. 17B) What were your greatest achievements for JCI and how would you like your tenure to be remembered? I try to be very conservative when I discuss “achievements”; however, for a fact, I have done very well as President of JCI Nigeria this year. My desire is to have those coming after me, push it further year-in-year-out and in just a few years, we will all have delivered an Organization that we will all be proud of. I just want to be remembered for having given my all to the organization. When people speak of my tenure, I want them to say, "Adetola gave it her
19) It is often said that failure is inevitable in the journey of life. Do you agree and can you share an experience and how you moved past it? I learnt very early in life that failure is not final, neither is it fatal, it is the courage to continue that truly counts. In all my dealings, I have had several failed projects, but I moved on very quickly. I have learnt to “fail forward”, learnt from my setbacks and made the necessary adjustments to succeed in my next attempt. | 19 |
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20) People who run their businesses have to work extra hard to ensure it is successful. How do you ensure you have a good work-life balance? There are several schools of thought as regards work-life balance, and it is a very tough topic. What I would suggest to people is to try to find a job they genuinely love, one that doesn't look like work, an environment they can thrive in; a job that if they were not paid, they would still want to participate in it. In cases like that, you find fulfilment and work becomes fun. 21) Looking back at your life so far is there anything you would change about your past experiences even though they have made you who you are today. Nothing really; somehow, every single experience has helped shape me to be a better person. 22) When you are not working hard and pursuing JCI initiatives, how do you relax? Travelling with friends! 23) What impact did your spirituality have on your successful career? What is the place of God in your life experience? God has been very faithful in all aspects of my life. I am a Christian and I genuinely believe in Christ Jesus, hence, I do all I can to ensure my actions are in alignment with his principles as stated in the scriptures. And this has helped me over the years in navigating through the sometimes-murky waters of life. For me, EVERYTHING starts and ends there; my relationship with God means everything and I will not compromise it for any worldly gain. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
24) People marry for different reasons. What key attributes should intending couples look out for in their choice of a life partner? Can you give one valuable marital advice for young couples aspiring to be successful in their marriages and careers? That would be arguably one of the most important decisions we get to make in our lifetime, so it is really crucial we get it right. Marriage is teamwork; and for any relationship to work there has to be communication, trust, honesty, mutual respect, and understanding from both parties. If any of this is lacking, such relationship would find it hard to stand the test of time. 25) What kind of impact do you think social media has on marriages and relationships these days and how should this be tackled? The adverse effect of social media doesn't end with marriage and relationships; it cuts across several areas of our life. And if we do not take caution and find a way to limit its consumption, we would be driven to depression. My advice is simple; take everything you see on social media with a pinch of salt. People only share what would make them look good in the eyes of others. It is called “social currency�. But that is only a part of the story, so the key is to not judge our lives based on a single story of another person's life. We really do not know the hurting and the healing that is going on in the background; all of which do not appear on social media. Live your own life irrespective of what you see on social media. 26) Health is wealth. What are your key actions for keeping healthy and remaining fit? You are very correct. Health truly is wealth; therefore, I engage in regular exercises and I try to take fruits and vegetables a lot. | 20 |
RDSF 2020 PLANNED EVENTS
We
wish to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported the RDSF vision from inception till date. We are indeed delighted and grateful for your overwhelming support received this year and prior years. Your support has ensured our continued commitment to our beneficiaries, improve their lives and give them hope for a better future; by giving them educational opportunities otherwise out of their reach. In 2020, we plan to continue the various programmes we initiated this year and also expand our charitable activities to accommodate more indigent Nigerians through the execution of new projects. It is our hope and belief that these projects will enhance value creation in the short, medium and long-term. Education Support Programme This programme started in 2011, and is the medium through which we provide sustainable education that spans through the duration of our beneficiaries’ academic programmes. Over 180 indigent students have benefited and applications are treated on a case by case basis. We are proud of the success stories that have emanated from beneficiaries over the years. In 2019, we expanded this programme by introducing the regional scholarship scheme to enable us take the programme closer to beneficiaries. We are making plans to increase the number of beneficiaries next year by partnering with more tertiary institutions in Nigeria to identify and award scholarships to stranded students. However, students from other tertiary institutions located in States we will not be visiting can apply during the January application window. Please see advert section for application details.
Skills Acquisition and Mentoring Programme Studies have shown that there is a ‘skill gap’ between employers need and graduate competence in Sub-Sahara Africa; including Nigeria. This programme was established and designed to teach soft skills channelled towards entrepreneurial and career success using practical and top notch follow up approach. It aims to empower indigent youths and undergraduates with relevant ICT and soft skills to prepare them for their chosen career path and also create an avenue for experienced and trusted advisers to use their wealth of experience to guide young people. This year, we were able to train a total of 141 undergraduates from the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Delta State University, Ambrose Ali University, Federal Polytechnic Nekede and University of Benin. The curriculum for the programme includes Microsoft Excel, Emotional Intelligence, Goals setting and Developing Creativity. The programme also gave opportunity to some indigent students that participated to be identified and awarded scholarships. Drawing from the feedback of participants over the years, the programme has made tremendous impact. Therefore, in 2020, we plan to increase the number of beneficiaries by executing two projects that will directly benefit at least 500 undergraduates and 1000 secondary school children in five States. Back to School Project This project was inaugurated in January 2019 with the aim to reduce the alarming rate of ‘out of school children’ in Nigeria. Being the maiden edition of this project, we were able to adopt twelve (12) primary and secondary school children in Benue, Ogun, Lagos and Kaduna State. We hope to adopt more indigent children by 2020. | 21 |
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Annual Lecture This lecture series was inaugurated in 2018 with the aim of providing a platform for informed debate, independent analysis and new policy ideas on issues that will contribute significantly to the improvement of access to quality education in Nigeria, with feedback to relevant stakeholders. We also use the opportunity to showcase our achievements and success stories of beneficiaries over a period of time. RDSF Teachers’ Excellence Award The aim of this award is to encourage teachers in public education who have contributed to quality education in Nigeria. This first edition of this award took place at the maiden edition of the annual lecture, had a cash award of N250,000 and was limited to teachers in Eti-Osa local government area of Lagos State. This year, the award ceremony was held during the Annual Lecture and was limited to public school teachers in Lagos Island local government area of Lagos State. The awardees received both cash prize and certificate of merit. Ways to partner with the Foundation 1. One Time Donation You can give a one-time donation through a transfer to the Foundation's account or pay online through our website.
THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
2. Pledge Sponsors can also make a pledge to give some money to the Foundation on a regular basis (weekly, monthly, quarterly, biannually or annually). Such sponsor will just send an email with details of the pledge and credit the Foundation's account. 3. Adopt a student scheme Under this scheme, the prospective sponsor will work with the Foundation to identify an indigent student who will be adopted and sponsored for their full academic programme. The sponsor can choose to be anonymous or meet the beneficiary. Here the sponsor will be provided with a periodic statement of the beneficiary's academic performance. 4. Sponsor a Workshop/ Training/ Event Sponsors can also choose to sponsor any of our annual events like the Annual Lecture, Thinking Aloud Magazine and Teachers’ Excellence Award or support the skill acquisition programme organized for indigent undergraduates to equip them with relevant ICT and soft skills. Upcoming Events - First Quarter (Jan-Mar 2020) 2020/2021 academic scholarship session Application opens 13th January 2020 Application closes 31st February 2020 Visit our website www.rehobothdreamsolidfoundation.org to apply
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PERSONAL INFORMATION: Title:_______________ First Name:__________________________________________________________________ Last Name:________________________________________________________________________________________ Occupation:________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email Address:____________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone number:_______________________________________________________________________________
Please tick your preferred option and notify RDSF using the contact details below: ADOPT A STUDENT SCHEME: Under this scheme, the prospective sponsor will work with the Foundation to identify an indigent student who will be adopted and sponsored for the full academic program. The sponsor can choose to be anonymous or decide to meet the beneficiary. Under this scheme, the sponsor will be provided with periodic updates of the beneficiary’s academic performance. DONATE BY CHEQUE: Please complete this form, and include a signed cheque payable to “Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation”. STANDING ORDER / PERIODIC DONATION: You can make periodic donations by instructing your bank to make regular transfers using the bank details below. Please add the transfer reference ‘RDSFTA2018’. ONE-OFF DONATION: You can make a one-off donation by direct bank transfer using the bank details below. Please add the transfer reference ‘RDSFTA2018’. Account name: Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation Bank: First Bank Nigeria Account Number: 2015884815 Sort Code: 011152442
CONTACT US: Please contact us for any assistance or additional information to aid your sponsorship or donation. Phone: Call RDSF on +2348079407057 Email: Scan and send the completed form to rehobothdream@gmail.com Post: Return the completed form to P O Box 51843, Falomo-Lagos, Nigeria.
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THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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the rehoboth dream solid foundation board of trustees Rear Admiral Oladeinde (‘Deinde) Olusoga Joseph was born at Ara-Moko, Ekiti State into the humble family of late Mr. Joseph Owolabi and late Mrs. Ajibabi Owolabi on the 9th of May 1948. He enlisted into the Nigerian Navy in July 1967 and later graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna and was commissioned as a Sub -Lieutenant in July 1971 in India. He received professional training as a naval officer in India, United Kingdom and the United States of America. Rear Admiral Joseph is a graduate of the Nigeria Command and Staff College Jaji and the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies Kuru. As a professional naval officer, he went through all the ranks in the Navy until he was promoted to the full Rear Admiral rank in 1998. While in the Navy, he had 4 sea commands, which included that of NNS Aradu (the Navy’s flag ship), 2 Training bases and 2 Operational bases. He had 2 tours at Jaji Staff College as Chief Instructor and Director of the Naval Faculty. He was also the Military Governor of Ogun State between 1990 and 1992. His last job was Chief of Navy Personnel at Naval Headquarters until he retired in June 1999. Married to Mrs. Katherine Lolade Joseph since April 1975, Rear Admiral ‘Deinde Joseph is blessed with 3 children; Toyin (now Mrs. Borisade), and the boys Seyi and Jide, all University graduates. His hobbies are photography, reading and he is a handicap 9 golfer. A practicing Christian of Methodist Church of the Trinity, Tinubu since 1967, he has a passion to help the less privileged in the society. Rear Admiral Joseph is a recipient of the National Honour of the Commander of the Order Of the Niger (CON), and brings his experience and goodwill to the Foundation as the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Ms. Ketumi Alasa was born on 12th February 1956 and hails from the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State. She had her tertiary education (HND Computer Science) from the Sheffield City Polytechnic, England. Her work life commenced with her NYSC, during which she served with The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd. in Lagos between 1979 and 1980. Thereafter, she worked for Royal Exchange Assurance as a Computer Programmer from 1980 to 1981. She was also employed by Delta Steel Company Aladja as a Computer Programmer/ Analyst developing and maintaining computer applications from 1981-1984. In 1984, she was employed by The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd as a Computer Programmer Analyst in the Information Technology department. She worked with Shell until 2008 when she retired after a successful and rewarding career. Since retirement, with her strong entrepreneurial skills, she has been running a business of furniture, household and home decorative items. She has 5 kids, 4 of whom have successfully completed their university education. In her leisure time, she enjoys gospel music and playing golf, for which she has won numerous awards. She is a devoted Christian with a deep passion for missionaries and their families. She loves to extend help and support to the less privileged. Ms. Ketumi Alasa is a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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Deacon Samson Madu Igbokwe is a 1983 B.Pharm Graduate of Pharmacy from the former University of Ife (Unife), now known as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). In addition, he gained a Masters in Business Administration Degree (MBA) from the University of Lagos (Unilag) in 2000. He also acquired a Certificate of Proficiency in Information Systems Management (CPISM). Shortly after his Youth Service Corp at Military Hospital Lagos, he set up his own pharmacy business at S.W. Ikoyi, Lagos in 1985 which he has been running as Chairman/Managing Director till date. This is a company that supplies and distributes pharmaceuticals to its community and hospitals in Lagos State. A devout and practicing Christian, he gave his life to Christ on March 31, 1991 in The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Akoka. Since then, he has served in various capacities in TREM as House Fellowship Centre Leader, Zonal Leader, Assistant Area Co -coordinator and Financial Secretary/ Treasurer of Caleb Group of the Christian Men Fellowship. He is currently serving as the Chairman Hospital Visitation Ministry in TREM. He is a member of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) and a Treasurer at Ikoyi Pharmacy Community Zone. He has passion for contributing to his community, and often assists in reaching out to orphans, the fatherless and widows in the community. Periodically, he visits in a group and prays for the sick in hospitals in Lagos, ministering to their spiritual, physical and material needs. He is happily married to his amiable wife Mrs. Roseline Igbokwe and they have 5 children. Deacon Samson Igbokwe is a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Deaconess Roseline Igbokwe was born on November 2, 1965 in Ikoyi, Lagos, and is married to Pharmacist Samson M. Igbokwe. She is an alumna of Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), Gangtok, India and the University of Lagos (UNILAG); Bsc. in Applied Information Technology, Business Administration and Masters in Business Administration(MBA) from the same institution. She holds a Certificate of Proficiency in Information Systems Management (CPISM), Advanced Diploma in Systems Engineering (ADSE), Certificate in Strategies for Managing and Collecting Data (LBS) and Certificate in Core Sales Skills (LCT). She worked with Texaco Nigeria Plc as well as Chevron Oil Nigeria Plc as Food Mart Supervisor, Senior Retail Business Consultant, South, and then MRS Oil Nigeria Plc as District Sales Manager, Southwest Nigeria, Credit Control Manager for Nigeria, Aviation Commercial, Retail Sales Manager for Southeast/Southwest Nigeria and Head, Sales & Marketing. Nigeria. A hard worker with enthusiasm for excellence, in 2006 she won the ‘African Pakistan Global Downstream 2006 Cultural Award, of Customer Facing and Market Focused ’ in Chevron, having executed superior and consistent execution and sales implementation of all programs, processes and systems. She had focused the department’s organization around achieving the best business financial targets through an agreed set of Profit & Loss control measures in all MRS Oil Nigeria Plc service stations in Nigeria. She is an ordained minister with The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM): and at various times has held the following positions: Assistant Secretary, Young Women Fellowship; Assistant Secretary, Christian Women Fellowship and Chairman Disciplinary Committee of the Evangel Voices Choir and Team Lead with the Christian Women Fellowship. Deaconess Roseline Igbokwe is also a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation. She is blessed with (5) five children.
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Pastor (Dr.) Joshua Gbadebo Opadiya is the Senior Pastor of Every Nation Church Sydney, Australia, a worldwide family of churches and ministries. He is currently serving as the Hub Leader of the Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, Papa New Guinea and Fiji) overseeing the ‘Every Nation churches and ministries in the Oceania region. Pastor (Dr.) Opadiya previously lectured in the Lagos State University, Nigeria for 6 years, before moving with his family to Innsbruck in Austria where he lived for almost 6 years. Thereafter, the family moved to Sydney Australia in 1999 where together with his wife, Dr. Mrs. Opadiya started the ‘Every Nation Church. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the reputable University of Ibadan in Nigeria and holds a doctorate degree in Ecotoxicology from the Technical University, Innsbruck, Austria. Pastor (Dr.) Opadiya has a burden to raise godly leaders and see the nations return to Jesus Christ. He has travelled and ministered in several nations worldwide. Pastor (Dr.) Opadiya's passion is to connect with young adults and adults alike who are leaders, peacemakers and bridge builders in their colleges, universities and in their communities. His life has been dedicated to this cause, reaching out, equipping, counseling and mentoring. He is also the dean of Every Nation Leadership Institute, a part-time program that is purposefully designed to provide discipleship training and biblical teaching for people from all walks of life. Pastor (Dr.) Opadiya and his wife have been married for 31 years. They are blessed with children. He is a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Dr. (Mrs.) Yinka Opadiya is a senior pastor with Every Nation Churches and Ministries. Alongside her husband Pastor (Dr) Joshua Opadiya, she oversees the multi-congregational Church organization in Sydney, Australia – a church with members from diverse cultures, age groups and professions. She is a teacher and motivational speaker with a passion for teaching about God's love and His purpose for humanity. She is also passionate about women and youth ministry; and is committed to mentoring women and young girls. Her heart-cry is to see ‘the Church’ respond to the Great Commission of ‘making disciples’ and transforming nations. A graduate of the prestigious Universities of Ife and Ibadan in Nigeria, she also holds a Doctorate degree in French (Women Literature) from the University of Innsbruck in Austria. She had worked as a French Lecturer in the Lagos State University and in various schools in Sydney Australia. Dr. (Mrs.) Yinka Opadiya been married for 31 years. They are blessed with children. She is a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Mrs. Ronke Osikoya holds a law degree (LLB) from the University of Lagos and an MBA (1988) from the same University. She is a Certified Trainer for the Commonwealth Association on Corporate Governance and has facilitated on the Directors course on Corporate Governance. She is a Management Consultant that co-runs a management consulting firm, Pedion Partnership Limited. Her values are strongly shaped by her Christian faith and she believes very passionately in supporting the under-privileged, particularly children, which accounts for her involvement with the Foundation. Mrs. Osikoya is a Trustee of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation and lives with her husband and 2 sons in Lagos, Nigeria. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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Mrs. Abimbola Komolafe is a devout Christian who was ordained as a Deaconess of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in the year 2000 and as an Assistant Pastor in August 2013. She served as a Coordinator in the Teens ministry of the Resurrection Parish of the RCCG in Lagos where her passion for supporting the education of the less privileged was birthed . She is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Banker and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Mrs. Bimbo Komolafe has taken various management, Leadership and professional courses, within and outside Nigeria and is an Alumna of the Lagos Business School. She worked for 9 years in a reputable Merchant Bank in Nigeria and thereafter worked for 20 years with one of the leading Oil and Gas companies in Nigeria. She currently works as a Principal Consultant for Threshold of Trust Nigeria Limited. Married to Rear Admiral Kehinde Komolafe (Rtd) who is also an Ordained Pastor of the RCCG Nigeria, they are blessed with 3 children. Together with her husband, they are committed to providing financial support to as many less privileged students as they can accommodate. Mrs Bimbo Komolafe is the founder and Executive Secretary of the Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation.
Rear Admiral Kehinde Komolafe (Rtd), is a highly revered and distinguished military officer who served meritoriously with impeccable records in the Nigerian Navy. He graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1980 and was commissioned as a Naval Officer a year after. Due to his quest for knowledge and passion for competence, he proceeded to study at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where he graduated in 1985 with a B.Sc. Degree in Accountancy. He attended several courses nationally and overseas and witnessed consistent career growth during his active years in the military. Rear Admiral Komolafe is a change agent with a commitment to providing transformational leadership and ensuring realignment of processes, operations, resource and people on various integrated fronts for optimum value creation. He held various sensitive positions in the Navy before his voluntarily retirement from the Service after 35 years of meritorious service. He presently sits on the Board of many prestigious organizations. Beyond his Military career, Rear Admiral Kehinde Komolafe (Rtd.) is a lover of God and a Pastor. He is married to Mrs. Abimbola Komolafe and they are blessed with 3 children.
Charity to the less priviledged
Skills Acquisition programmes
Raise funds for the needy
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Supporting the poor
A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
My name is Leslie Smart Abiola, a beneficiary of (Mrs. Williams) through my mother, I remember her Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation. telling my mother she liked me and all. I was young and filled with the passion and the drive to be successful, but at a point my wherewithal was taken away from me by nature (I lost my dad) while I was in secondary school (SS2).
All of a sudden I found myself working for her and learning a lot, and in the process she asked about my school and I was like my post UTME exams was in one week, then she called me into her office and handed me a small piece of paper where she wrote I never fully grabbed the full extent to which the (REHOBOTH DREAM SOLID FOUNDATION). loss would affect me, because I was quite oblivious of the fact that all responsibilities would be too much She said google it and fill the form, write your essay on my mother. and show me before you upload. Well I was still amazed I didn't understand what she was trying to The promise say, then I googled it and discovered that it was a My father had the policy of making sure all his scholarship board and I was sceptical and wasn't so children were well educated in the best schools and eager to fill the form or even do any of the process best environment for learning. He made my mother because I always felt this “scholarship thing” is a promise him, we all would be educated no matter real waste of time. what happens to him. Then she called me and said “Leslie I am waiting for Then he died and she remembered the promise and your essay; I need to see your essay by tomorrow”. said to me “Leslie, I made a promise to your father that you are all going to be educated”; knowing deep I had to rush the essay, gave her the following day, down she did not know how that was going to she read it and she pointed out lots of errors. She happen. She had five children who needed to be asked to know the course I would like to study and I educated up to university level. said English and Literature, and she said “you can't even write about yourself”. Mrs. Education I wrote my JAMB matriculation exams and passed. Williams made me write that essay seven times and Before my post UTME test, my mother and I had a made corrections until it was perfect. And then she late night discussion on how to pay my university gave me the go ahead to upload. The most captivatfees when I eventually get admitted. She had always ing thing about my story is that Mrs. been the most supportive and most independent woman, she would always say, “Leslie don't worry Williams didn't just give me the link like she gave trust me”. other people; she made sure I got the scholarship. My point is Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation How did I get to know about RDSF? handed me my passport. And it is up to me to decide During the process of trying to pray for the future which country to go or how many countries I decide and getting closer to God I met a Wonder Woman to go. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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Uniqueness: the quality of being the only one of its kind. Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation isn't just an ordinary platform that pays your school fees just because they are a foundation, they monitor you, they set you straight, they make you want to improve on yourself, that is what makes RDSF unique. Education plays a great role in the life of everyone all through life. Getting proper education is very necessary to getting success and a happy life; just like food is good for a healthy body. It is important to live a luxurious and better life. It develops the personality of the people, provides physical and mental standard and transforms people's living status. It promotes the feeling of physical, mental and social wellbeing by providing opportunities to live a better life. Good education is constructive in nature and therefore constructs our future forever. I remember when I was applying for the scholarship I was asked to write the reason I deserve the scholarship. This was what I wrote 1. I deserve this scholarship to reduce my mother’s burden in the aspect of paying school fees alongside feeding money, and other expenses. I lost my father and every burden had been on my mother. 2. My reasons for applying for this scholarship is to enable me continue my education uninterrupted. No matter the circumstances I face, I believe I must go to school. My father ’s wish before his death was for every one of us to go to school and become successful. 3. To make positive impact in the society and be useful to the world at large. I want to be a role model to those who look up to me, and also to make everyone who has helped me one way or the other not to regret their actions. 4. I deserve a scholarship because I have my aims and objectives. if I finally reach my destination in life and that aim is to help others because I believe everyone is a helper to someone and I strongly believe it is God’s will for me to earn a scholarship. 5. Furthermore I want to join the race to reduce illiteracy in the country and to prevent people from living a useless life, and going against the law of the society. Lastly, I need this scholarship to be able to take myself to the next level, help people and make REHOBOTH FOUNDATION proud. Those where my exact words and now I am glad that Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation has helped me fulfil some of those words as I hope to achieve the rest. To me, God is the creator and ruler of the universe and source of all moral authority; the Supreme Being; a superhuman being or spirit worshipped having power over nature or human fortunes; a deity. Well whichever religion you believe in, I want you to know that no matter what you do, have it at the back of your mind that God exists and He is really at work for you! Thank you so much, I'm speechless right now but all I can say is thank you and I love RDSF. I will never forget RDSF no matter where I go. You have made me closer to my goals and I feel I can actually be somebody important in the future. God bless RDSF.
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R
elationships are a necessary part of healthy living, but there is no such thing as a perfect relationship. Relationships, from acquaintances to romantic types have the potential to enrich our lives and add to our enjoyment of life especially when they are healthy. What makes a healthy relationship? Generally, all relationships require a certain amount of work to maintain them, they get stressful sometimes and that's all right. A healthy relationship causes more happiness than stress. A healthy relationship is comprised of the following: - Mutual respect - Trust - Reciprocity - Healthy conflict resolution - Appreciation - Boundaries - Honesty - Support - Fairness/equality - Individuality - Good communication - A sense of fondness The more positive effort you put into a relationship, the healthier it should be. People in healthy relationships love and support each other. They help each other practically as well as emotionally. They are there for each other in the good times and the bad times. Healthy relationships can improve your outlook on life. They increase your sense of worth and belonging. Healthy relationships make you feel understood, loved, supported and well cared for. They help you discover and improve yourself. Healthy relationships are THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
beneficial for all these reasons and require intentionality from all parties involved. We should all aspire to form healthy bonds at work, school, home and online. Healthy Communication Builds Healthy Relationships Good, effective and healthy communication is important when it comes to positive social interaction. We need to communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings that may cause hurt, anger, resentment or confusion. Relationships are not difficult to maintain, if they involve healthy communication with one other. When each one knows how the other person thinks and feels about certain things, there is more openness and freedom in the relation, thus making it easier to maintain it. Any relationship that lacks effective communication might experience their share of misunderstandings, frustrations, unhappiness, fighting – and can ultimately lead to the dissolution of the relationship. There is a clear difference between communication and effective communication, and that difference lies in the effectiveness. Effective communication makes people understand each other. The end goal of communication should always be to understand – not to fight, not to dismiss, not to invalidate, but to understand. In relationships, it can be a good thing to know that someone is actually there to talk to us about anything at all. Effective communication can help others feel comfortable with approaching us any time they need or want to talk about anything that might be bothering them. We are likely to have a more open and healthy relationship if we are approachable. Let's focus on relationships in the family setting and reasons why healthy communication is important. | 31 |
Reason One: Reaching an Understanding When you communicate with family members, you are able to share your beliefs and learn what others feel is right. While you may not agree, you may begin to understand more the reasons why they do what they do or say what they say. You could even grow a better appreciation of them. Reason Two: Solving a Problem Many issues among family members arise because of miscommunication. Coming together to talk about a particular problem can open the lines of communication so you can find solutions to what negatively affects all of you. Reason Three: Encouraging Support A family system helps every one of its members through the good and the bad times. When a family communicates well, everyone understands what loved ones need, making them better able to provide support. Even if nothing can be done about the situation, just providing a listening ear can make all the difference as the family member feels heard and understood. Actively listening may aid better appreciation of how each family member would like to be supported and cared for.
the family. Good communication helps everyone come to an understanding, which is the basis for all healthy familial relationships. Here are some quotes to drive home the point:
“A healthy relationship is a feast of affection/giving for both people; not one receiving crumbs and trying to convince themselves it’s enough.” – Shannon Thomas “Love in such a way that the person you love feels free.” –Thich Nhat Hanh “We can improve our relationships with others by leaps and bounds if we become encouragers instead of critics.” — Joyce Meyer Healthy relationships are worth the effort, always remember that.
Reason Four: Providing Insight on Situations Family members often disagree about how they should deal with their personal problems. While it may be difficult to hear, sometimes it's good to have a family member share another perspective of a situation. This enables the person dealing with the issue make an informed decision based on a family member’s perspective. Whether or not they choose to take this perspective into consideration is totally up to them. Reason Five: Forming Tighter Bonds Trusting in family members by communicating with them will foster the love you share and tighten your bonds. Many families grow apart because each individual member becomes wrapped up in their individual lives and forgets to come home to their family's love. When problems come up, if you've established a strong communicative base with your family, you'll know your family is a safe place to seek shelter. Importance of Family Communication During Disagreements Communicating with family members on neutral ground is easy. However, during disagreements it may seem impossible to communicate anything to the other person. It's important not to turn the other way though, or you could ruin the relationship you have with that person for many years. Many families go through this and it causes strife for not just the two in conflict, but for other family members as well. If you often have family issues or you have fallen out with your loved one, learn about conflict resolution in
Oreoluwa C. Macaulay is a graduate of the University of Birmingham. She is a legal professional, writer, performance artist and storyteller. She is also a content and creative freelance developer, contributor and editor. With writing experience spanning ten years, Oreoluwa covers through her body of work, various aspects of life such as religion, friendship, loss, identity, love, rape and family to name a few. She uses her storytelling abilities as a tool for self-expression and examination of her multifaceted identity. Oreoluwa writes to understand and explain her world and that of others. She believes in one being the change they want to see; hence she uses her voice through public speaking, poetry, spoken word and social media to express herself and encourage others to be change makers in their respective spheres. | 32 |
A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
health & fitness
In
the very beginning (Genesis 1:2,6-10) there was water. The Bible tells us that the spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters, the entire universe was water and God first created light, then proceeded to separate the waters to create the heavens, the earth, and the seas. Water has always been a crucial part of man’s existence from the beginning. Water is life, Water is perfect, and Water is king. Modernization however has caused us to loose the importance of water and we have migrated to processed drinks as a substitute for water. STOP PRESS! There is no substitute for water. WATER FACTS
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After a long hot and traffic filled day, do you take a much needed bath with fizzy soda instead of water?
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To make that pot of rice for the family, do you use a pack of fruit juice instead of water?
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Or you are getting a pedicure and the nail technician proceeds to soak your feet in a nice warm bowl of coffee or green tea.
These analogies are a bit over the top, but that's the truth right there. Water is water, not to be mistaken or replaced with any other liquid. FIVE QUICK BENEFITS OF WATER The benefit list is long but I will focus on just five, which have worked for me.
The human body is 60 percent water The human blood is 90 percent water. Water helps our kidneys and other bodily functions to perform well, keeps our skin healthy and our joints well lubricated. DEHYDRATION DEFINED Dehydration is simply the absence of water. According to the Cambridge dictionary, to dehydrate means to lose water, or to cause water to be lost from something, especially from a person's body. I love this definition because it distinguishes between water and other liquids, while other liquids partly contain water and help to hydrate you, they can't be compared with a glass of 100% H2O A few analogies to paint the picture why and how water cannot be substituted; THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
1. The digestive and respiratory systems depend on it: there is no simple way to put this. Just drink water. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems and constipation. It could also cause an overly acidic stomach which increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers. Water is highly important in the processes of sweating and removal of urine and faeces - dehydration causes stool to be hard and difficult to pass, it causes urine to be dark yellow or even brown - if your urine is any shade darker than a light yellow or clear apple juice colour, you need to be drinking more water. (There are urine colour scales available on the internet) 2. Healthy skin, hair and nails: With good hydration habits, the skin is more supple, less vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling. The healthier skin helps to promote hair growth and stronger nails. | 33 |
3. Regulated body temperature: dehydration leads to heat storage in the body, leading to heat strain or general fatigue and stress (similar to a car overheating). For those living in hot climates or engaging in regular exercise that result in excessive sweating, constant hydration is critical to reduce physical strain and tiredness. 4. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean and healthy (vs sweetened beverages which can cause tooth decay). It promotes healthy saliva and mucus glands, which primarily helps us digest our food and also keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist preventing friction and damage. 5. Distribution of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body: Since blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen, minerals and nutrients to different parts of the body. It then means that proper hydration supports the transportation and distribution of these life giving elements through out the body ensuring all organs are well 'fed'. This hydrated transportation system is also important for evacuating toxins from our organs (through sweat, faeces and urine).
In concluding this article, this is not about shaming other drinks, some have their time and place (like my morning mug of green tea to help my system boot); this is about high grading the profile which water currently has in our lives. I also want to caveat (yet again) that yours truly is no expert. I share what has worked for me on my personal healthy living journey. I do not claim to have attained all my goals, but like Apostle Paul in Phil 3:12-14, I press towards the goal, eyes on the prize. It starts with the mind, then the will and the body follows. Doing more water has improved the way my body functions, it'll do the same for you. Remain Blessed, Remain Hydrated
SO HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? How much should we drink daily? It depends on various circumstances; climate, ones activity level, gender. However, a general rule of thumb by the professionals is two and three litres a day for females and males respectively. While the recommendation is to consciously drink more water and choose water over other drinks as a primary hydration source, there is no hard and fast rule for how to achieve this target. For me, it's a daily battle, win some - loose some but the wins must be in my favour. Below is my personal game plan, please adopt freely. •
I drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.
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I invested in a good spill-proof water bottle to carry around. Mine is 0.75L and so the plan is to finish a full bottle over the course of the morning (a sip here and there) and top up by lunch time for the second half of the day. Remember success starts with a plan, so although I may not complete 2 bottles every day, I most likely will always finish the first.
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I choose water over other drinks with my lunch
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Each time I pass a water dispenser, I stop and drink some.
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PS. Thou shalt pee more, but that in itself has its benefits of aiding the efficient exit of toxins from the body :)
Mrs. Elozino Olaniyan holds a Bachelor’s of Engineering Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Benin-City, Nigeria and has 25+ years industry experience as a Petroleum Engineer. She is married to Engineer Olafemi Olaniyan and together they have three children. She lives in Lagos Nigeria where she serves as a minister in her local church. In her spare time, she writes an inspirational blog www.Elozino.wordpress.com. She is passionate about her fitness regime and shares some health and fitness tips with TA readers.
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health & fitness
The
dry season will be here very soon. Climate change has led to high temperatures at all times. We therefore need to constantly hydrate our bodies. Keeping hydrated is crucial for health and well-being, but many people do not consume enough water each day.
1. It lubricates the joints Cartilage, found in joints and the disks of the spine, contains around 80 percent water. Longterm dehydration can reduce the joints' shockabsorbing ability, leading to joint pain. 2. It forms saliva and mucus
Around 60 percent of the body is made up of water, and around 71 percent of the planet's surface is covered by water. Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of water that means drinking enough each day is not at the top of many people's lists of priorities. Fast facts on drinking water •
Adult humans are 60 percent water, and our blood is 90 percent water.
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There is no universally agreed quantity of water that must be consumed daily.
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Water is essential for the kidneys and other bodily functions.
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When dehydrated, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and wrinkling.
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Drinking water instead of soda can help with weight loss.
Benefits of drinking water Possible benefits of drinking water range from keeping the kidneys healthy to losing weight. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water. Here are some reasons our body needs water: THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
Saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. Drinking water also keeps the mouth clean. Consumed instead of sweetened beverages, it can also reduce tooth decay. 3. It delivers oxygen throughout the body Blood is more than 90 percent water, and blood carries oxygen to different parts of the body. 4. It boosts skin health and beauty With dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling. 5. It cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning. 6. It regulates body temperature Water that is stored in the middle layers of the skin comes to the skin's surface as sweat when the body heats up. As it evaporates, it cools the body. | 35 |
Some scientists have suggested that when there is too little water in the body, heat storage increases and the individual is less able to tolerate heat strain. Having a lot of water in the body may reduce physical strain if heat stress occurs during exercise. However, more research is needed into these effects.
“Having a lot of water in the body may reduce physical strain if heat stress occurs during exercise�
7. The digestive system depends on it The bowel needs water to work properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers. 8. It flushes body waste Water is needed in the processes of sweating and removal of urine and faeces. 9. It helps maintain blood pressure A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure. 10. The airways need it When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse. 11. It makes minerals and nutrients accessible These dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach different parts of the body. 12. It prevents kidney damage The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. Insufficient water can lead to kidney stones and other problems. 13. It boosts performance during exercise Dehydration during exercise may hinder performance. Some scientists have proposed that consuming more water might enhance performance during strenuous activity. More research is needed to confirm this, but one review found that dehydration reduces performance in activities lasting longer than 30 minutes. 14. Weight loss Water may also help with weight loss, if it is consumed instead of sweetened juices and sodas. "Preloading" with water before meals can help prevent overeating by creating a sense of fullness.
Mrs. Ajayi Olubusola is the MD of Florencejohn Health affiliated to Narayana Health India. A highly experienced Nursing Professional with over 35 years working experience. She previously worked in the medical unit of a reputable Oil and Gas company for 31 years with quality experience as a Senior Nursing Sister in all aspects of Nursing Care Units.
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Let us take the burden of caring for your loved ones off your shoulders. We care for them at the comfort of your homes by reliable and Registered personnel. We are affordable. www.nursentriccare.com
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health & fitness
Benjamin Eze Project Role: Production & Design
since volunteered to support the Foundation with my skills as a demonstration of continued gratitude. Thinking Aloud Magazine project is one area where I am responsible for the production and design. Motivation to Support RDSF/TA Magazine: I share in the vision of the Foundation to support individuals in achieving a good education. I also share in the vision of TA Magazine to publish resources and information in various areas that inspire positive thinking, and promote ethical values. Lessons from working for RDSF/TA Magazine: I have learnt the practical importance of working well in a good team to make any dream work.
Background: I was born in Lagos-Nigeria, into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Sunday Fabian Eze. I am one of seven children. After completing my secondary school education in Nigeria, I travelled to the UK where I completed an undergraduate programme in Business Information Technology, and a Masters in Geographical Information Systems; both at the University of Greenwich, London.
Dreams for RDSF/TA Magazine: My dream for RDSF is for the Foundation to continue to exceed all its objectives and attract more sponsors. My dream for TA Magazine is for it to become a household resource and a reference point. Hobbies: I enjoy playing the Alto Saxophone and can play the melody to any song within 10 minutes.
I am currently working as a Software Developer in the Music Industry where I develop applications to automate financial reporting and processes, and provide business intelligence capabilities for strategic decision making. I am also the Author of the book “Eze Went to School�, published in 2013. Connection to RDSF/TA Magazine: I had been a recipient of financial support from RDSF at some point during my studies in the UK, and have THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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Tomi Olatunde Project Role: Project Manager
affiliation/connection to the foundation or myself as an individual. Your dreams for RDSF? I hope in the years to come, the foundation has a much wider reach and is able to impact more lives. I also hope the individuals that have been impacted by the foundation in turn pay it forward and reach out to other individuals around them who may need one form of help or the other. Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, reading books, drawing and exploring new opportunities.
Edison Egere Background: Tomi joined Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation (RDSF) in 2017 as a Project Management Consultant. She works closely with the RDSF team on various projects from building new strategies to managing new projects- the Thinking Aloud Magazine , which is an initiative of the foundation to share information that will improve societal values in various areas/ phases in life and the RDSF Annual Lecture Series which is a platform to discuss/address issues that will contribute towards improving access to quality education and the education sector as a whole in Nigeria.
Project Role: RDSF Administrator
Tomi graduated from the University of Toronto in Canada with a BSc. in Geology; and Environment and Resource Management from where she commenced work as a Geological Technician and transitioned to become an Exploration Geologist in one of Canada’s major gold mining company. Tomi currently works in the Oil and Gas industry in Nigeria.
Background: I was born into the family of Mr and Mrs. Edwin Egere in Delta State and I am the first child in the family of six children. I am a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) and have a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance. Over the years, I have gained experience in financial reporting, project management, data analysis and foreign exchange risk management.
Tomi is a PRINCE2 certified Project Manager; she enjoys working with SME businesses and NGOs to improve operational efficiency and manage various projects. What motivates you to support RDSF and Thinking Aloud? RDSF is doing amazing work in line with the vision it has and the values it stands for which resonates with me personally. That has been more than enough motivation and it is a privilege to be part of the impact RDSF has on people’s lives. Any lessons or impact to your life working for RDSF/ TA? One constant reminder from working with RDSF/TA has been to stay focused and consistently work towards the vision/goal. Keep doing what you do and make sure the recognition or achievements do not distract you. It is beyond us as a foundation or me as an individual; it is all about the lives that will be better off as a result of their
Connection to RDSF/ TA Magazine: I am one of the beneficiaries of the personal support the founder of RDSF was giving to indigent students prior to establishing the NGO. I later became an active volunteer in 2014, three years after graduating from the University. As a volunteer, I am privileged to supervise projects within and outside Lagos. I am currently the Administrator of Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation. Motivation to Support RDSF/ TA Magazine: As a child I never had a smooth academic session in primary and secondary school because of lack of finance. I even had to wait three years at home to work and save for tertiary education; yet I still would not have been able to achieve my dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant if not for the continued financial support I got from my mentor. Hence, I share in the vision of the Foundation to economically empower indigent young people through scholarship and mentoring support. | 39 |
A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
health & fitness Lessons from working for RDSF/ TA Magazine: Working for RDSF has taught me to show love and kindness in any way I can and that every action of little kindness has immeasurable effect on both the receiver and the general public. There is great gain and joy when you positively contribute to make an impact in someone’s life.
Lessons from working for RDSF/ TA Magazine: Working with RDSF has exposed me to a wide range of people from different backgrounds and lifestyles. It has shown me that we may not be able to choose our circumstances, but we can work to change and improve them by working with people who may be stronger where we are weak.
Dreams for RDSF: My dream for RDSF is for the Foundation to garner the needed support it requires to impact the lives of more indigent young people in Nigeria. My dream for TA Magazine is for it to have a large audience to achieve it’s objective of promoting ethical values in the society.
Dreams for RDSF: My dream for RDSF is for the foundation to do more and continue to grow from strength to strength. The moment the gospel of RDSF is spread well enough, I feel it will challenge all other NGOs to contribute more, it will also show that there are benefits of being honest and open.
Hobbies: I enjoy traveling and hanging out with my mentees.
Hobbies: Working for God, Football, Experimenting & Research
Damilola Othniel Komolafe
Celestina Osiki
Project Role: Member, TA Magazine project team & Social Media Support
Background: Mr. Damilola Othniel Komolafe holds a BA (Hons) Business Management & Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Digital Marketing from the Nottingham Trent University UK. He has experience in General Marketing, product branding and social media management. Damilola currently works as the Marketing Manager and Social Media Lead strategist for Threshold of trust Nig. Ltd. and provides the coordination and delivery of the marketing strategies for the Threshold of trust Nig. Ltd. Othniel has been a volunteer at RDSF since 2016 when he completed his Masters degree. Motivation to Support RDSF/ TA Magazine: I am motivated by the slogan of RDSF, “little drops, big changes” and I love how RDSF makes impact in the society. I am very keen in fulfilling the purpose God has for me and grateful to have the RDSF Platform to work with to make my own contribution to the society. I am happy working with RDSF where ‘we are stronger, working together’. THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
Project Role: Member, TA Magazine project team
Background: I am a graduate of Quantity surveying from Kwara State polytechnic. I currently work as an administrative officer with Threshold of Trust Bureau De Change and as a Volunteer for Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation. I am a young lady with so much potential, a fast learner and humble. I am a person of integrity, with great enthusiasm for knowledge. I desire to impact my world positively. I hail from Edo State in Nigeria and my hobbies are reading, travelling and sport activities. Motivation to Support RDSF/ TA Magazine: I am motivated by the mission and vision statement of RDSF, whose mission is “To provide relevant and sustainable education and mentoring, for economic and social empowerment for the poor and less privileged, in order to help them achieve their dreams and aspirations” Lessons from working for RDSF/ TA Magazine: Thinking aloud magazine is very rich and educative and has positively enriched my life. I love reading the magazine and have been especially impacted by the Finance Coach column. Reading this column has | 40 |
helped me in managing my income, saving for the future and not to depend on one source of income. I also love the second edition, which featured Dr. (Mrs.) Irene Olumese’s interview “Never give up on hope”. This interview encouraged me to have a positive mindset and motivated me to keep moving in any situation I find myself.
Eunice Olatunji Project Role: Member, TA Magazine project team & Social Media Support
RDSF vision. With RDSF, attaining Educational goals becomes easier for indigent students. RDSF will not only give financial sponsorship, but also give continuous mentorship at no cost. I enjoy being part of this and I have no reservation in volunteering for the organization in any part of the Country. This year, we have been to Benin and Owerri and still planning to reach other states. I am glad to be part of these activities as it has made me a better person. Lessons from working for RDSF/ TA Magazine: Personally, working for RDSF has made me discover some of my skills. I learn daily especially when I am given a task that may initially appear difficult. RDSF has very intelligent and patient leaders and this has made me more professional and efficient. The organization has a way of bringing out the best in you. I have become more productive and proactive.
Academic Background: I am graduate of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. I have a B.Tech degree in Geology and have experience in Digital Marketing, and Ui/Ux design. Occupation: I currently work with Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation where I am serving my mandatory NYSC internship. My role involves giving Social Media support to the Foundation and all her projects including the TA Magazine. Connection to RDSF/Thinking Aloud Magazine: In a bid to meet my academic needs, I decided to browse the available scholarships in Nigeria that support undergraduate study. I got Rehoboth Dream Solid Foundation that supported me till my Fifth/ final year. This support led to my academic excellence because I had less worries thereafter. I graduated as the best female student and the second-best in my department. Shortly after graduation, I became a Volunteer to the organization even before NYSC. One of my major roles in RDSF is the social media management. I enjoy creating posts on the social media handles to make people see RDSF activities and to reach a wider audience. Motivation to Support RDSF/ TA Magazine: The fact that RDSF seeks to impact lives and put a smile on people's faces motivated me to support the
Thinking Aloud Magazine: I am a poet. Thinking Aloud Magazine published my poems in the Q1-2018 and Q3-2019. This has helped me reach a wider audience. I not only write but I was given a platform for people to read my poems and I am glad my writings can touch lives. The Thinking Aloud magazine is so complete that it touches almost all aspects of life. Talk about Family in 'Parenting', Finance in 'Finance Coach', Health in 'Health and Fitness', Entrepreneurship in 'Interviews', Fun in 'Book review and Poetry corner', Motivation in 'Success Stories', academics, business, career, etc I don't miss the Finance Coach and Parenting columns. A topic in Finance Coach called "Debt vs. Savings" has personally helped me manage my finances. I have returned to read it over so many times. You can read more on www.financecoachbk.com My Dream For RDSF: My dream for RDSF is to get more sponsors so as to reach more indigent youths and give them the best gift ever - education. I dream that all the beneficiaries will become great and influential people and give back to the Foundation by sponsoring more indigent students. I also dream that RDSF will be globally known and win awards as the best Foundation that has positively impacted less privileged Nigerians in obtaining education, mentoring and skills acquisition. Hobbies: Writing, reading, travelling, watching wresting and playing recorder.
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running my race I am not giving up I am not giving up. I will continue To strive for perfection, To embrace holiness, To achieve purity. I will continue to believe in righteousness. I strive for perfection and striving is what I do. Pursuing after righteousness with sin as close as my shadow. Sometimes I stop running and my shadow catches up too. The extra weight hinders my progress, I become slow. “Sin, please I need a break. My legs are tired and my knees have begun to shake.” The guilt and condemnation sits heavy on my head causing my shoulders to ache. This crown of sin I don’t want but I just can’t seem to shake. So I harlem shake off course. Right there, I lost sight of my main focus. Even though everything felt fine, I was at a loss.
Desperately searching for somewhere to dump this cross. Cross? I remembered the cross And He who paid it all. The ultimate price was the shedding of His blood that went Drip drop drip drippity drop. He who knew no sin was made to become sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
I am free to continue my race . And I can’t even afford to trip on my shoe lace. Can’t get distracted by the world calling my name. Leaving in the dust behind me, every blame and shame. So I run into obedience, slam into purity and dance with peace. I grow and increase with divine ease.
Therefore, I have been made right in God’s sight. Bought and brought into the kingdom of light. That memory should give us strength to fight.
With the Holy Spirit as my coach, I inch closer and closer. And when the enemy comes again, do not be fooled, he will come again.
So I become a freedom fighter, I fight for my freedom. Freedom from the shackles of sin. Guilt and condemnation cannot stand when my God comes into the scene. Hallelujah you have won the victory and given me the win. And this is my testimony yeah, I once was a slave to sin, Once bound but now I’m free.
Here’s a tip you might find handy. Tell him you have received sanctification through redemption. Let him know you are saved by grace, renewed by the Spirit, redeemed by mercy and loved by the Almighty God. And lastly, tell him gerrariaheremehn. Now watch him run his race in the opposite direction.
Oreoluwa C. Macaulay is a graduate of the University of Birmingham. She is a legal professional, writer, performance artist and storyteller. She is also a content and creative freelance developer, contributor and editor. Oreoluwa writes to understand and explain her world and that of others. She believes in one being the change they want to see; hence she uses her voice through public speaking, poetry, spoken word and social media to express herself and encourage others to be change makers in their respective spheres.
THINKING ALOUD | OCT - DEC 2019
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