THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 31TH MARCH 2024

n a country like Nigeria, where the lifespan is estimated to be 56.06 years old, a 0.55% increase from last year’s 55.57 years, turning 100 years old is a huge deal. Violet Iyabode Ladipo, who celebrated her centurion birthday last week, is among the fortunate few whom God has blessed to live that long.

It’s in the little things

At a time when our headlines are often filled with turmoil and uncertainty, witnessing someone celebrate 100 years of life, still strong and surrounded by loved ones, is nothing short of a blessing. Imagine a century of love, experiences and milestones. Amazing. Yeah, I am talking about today’s cover personality, Violet Iyabode Ladipo.

Seeing her surrounded by family, their faces filled with love and admiration was a beautiful reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we hold dear.

You should read her interview. My takeaway is that maybe the secret to a long life is focusing more on the seemingly smaller things and just generally taking life easy. And come to think of it, this echoes sentiments we hear time and time again – put God first, be honest, diligent, patient, and maintain a clean heart. So, I guess by now, we all know that these really are the pillars of a well-lived life even though, despite hearing these lessons repeatedly, many of us still struggle to live by them.

I’ll be the first to admit that patience has never been my strong suit. I used to attach unrealistic deadlines to everything I did, constantly setting myself up for disappointment when things didn’t go as planned. While I’m still a work in progress in that regard, have also learned to let go of the need to control every aspect of my life.

Instead, I’ve embraced the ebb and flow of life, trusting that everything will fall into place in due time. And you know what? It’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. Letting go of unnecessary worry has allowed me to find peace and contentment in the present moment. Sure, things may not always go according to plan, but stressing over them won’t change the outcome either way. We can put in all the effort in the world, but ultimately, it’s the grace of God that crowns our endeavours. As a good friend of mine would say, “Your own na to roll dice, na God dey give double 6 “.

To everyone reading this, may we all live long, happy, and fulfilled lives guided by faith, patience, and gratitude.

hope your Easter break has been filled with love, laughter and relaxation. Wishing you a beautiful holiday surrounded by loved ones and filled with blessings.

Love,

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An inside look at global movies creating the most buzz in the run-up to awards season

When Violet Iyabode Ladipo Turned 100

Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered on Thursday, March 24th, to celebrate with Oloye, Mrs. Violet Iyabode Ladipo, the matriarch of the Ladipo family of Lisabi Mills. The day started with a Thanksgiving service at St. Peter’s Church (faji) on Ajele Street, Lagos Island, and ended with a grand reception at the Habour Point Event Centre in Victoria Island. The birthday celebration presented another opportunity to reflect on Mama’s life and her achievements and acknowledge the efforts and contributions she made in no small measure to the Nigerian food industry. It was a fun-filled day with many notable Nigerians present to celebrate and honour the graceful Amazon.

CELEBRANT’S CHILDREN, DUPE LADIPO; JK LADIPO; VIOLET LADIPO; SHEX AND SHOMI LADIPO

CHIEF VIOLET IYABODE LADIPO

EMEKA & BUNMI ANYAOKU

ADIBA ANYAOKU-IGHODARO

OLUSEGUN OSUNKEYE

ABI OSUNKOYA (GRAND DAUGHTER) HRH ADEDOTUN AREMU GBADEBO III

GEN IKE NWACHUKWU RTD

DAYO ABAYOMI & JOKO ONABOLU

TOKUNBO

GBENGA ADESANYA AND HAKEEM BAKARE

TUNDE FASINA, SHEX LADIPO AND SEGUN OSHIN BOSE BAKARE; FOLAKE SANWO-OLU AND JUMOKE OSOBU

L’Oréal Professionnel Paris launches Absolut Repair

Molecular range to tackle damaged hair

L’Oréal Professionnel Paris — the professional product division of the world’s leading beauty group, L’Oréal — has launched the Absolut Repair Molecular product range in Nigeria. The range was introduced at an exclusive event on Thursday, March 21, at The Wings, Lagos. Guests had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sensory experiences at different booths, such as the Perfume stand, where they could explore the distinct scents defining the product range and the science stand, which allowed them to feel the texture of each product.

Designed to reform and rebuild the molecular structure of any hair type, the Absolut Repair Molecular range was crafted through collaboration between scientists and hair care specialists and is chosen from a selection of 17 highly effective formulas. As with all L’Oréal Professionnel Paris products, the Absolut Repair Molecular range is suitable for professional services and home use alike. It is available at salons near you and on Jumia.

Zenith General Insurance Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

Zenith General Insurance Company Limited recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary, marking a remarkable journey of industry leadership and outstanding service.

The event, which took place at The Banquet Hall of the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos saw the company honour its history, recognise the invaluable contributions of its dedicated staff and express appreciation to its valued stakeholders.

Founded as Piccadilly Insurance and later acquired and rebranded as Zenith General Insurance under Dr. Jim Ovia’s (CFR) visionary leadership in 2004, the company has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic insurance service providers.

CHIOMA IKWOKU & LAILA CADNE MO CHEDDAH EKU EDEWOR

SARI AJAJ, KEMI

AMARA EZUKANNA

AKUCHI EZE AND RASHIDAT SUNMONU

HOW TO GET OVER A BREAKUP

Breakups, the universal rite of passage that most of us inevitably face, can feel like navigating through a storm with no compass.

You’re not just losing a partner but also a part of your daily routine, dreams, and perhaps a slice of your heart. However, as you stand at this crossroads, it’s very important to remember that this is not just an end but also a beginning—a chance to rediscover yoursaelf and embrace a future filled with possibilities.

Embrace Your Emotions

First of all, let’s acknowledge the emotional rollercoaster. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, confused, or even relieved. These feelings don’t follow a neat timeline, and expecting them to do so can lead to frustration. Allow yourself the grace to feel without judgment. Writing in a journal or talking to a trusted friend or family can provide a healthy outlet for these emotions.

Rediscover Your Individuality

In relationships, we often inadvertently mould aspects of our lives to fit into a shared existence. Post-breakup is a golden opportunity to rediscover what makes you uniquely you. Revisit old hobbies or explore new interests. Travelling solo, joining a class, or simply dedicating time to a long-neglected passion can be incredibly fulfilling.

Physical Wellness

Never underestimate the power of physical wellness in healing a bruised heart. Exercise releases endorphins, nature’s mood lifters. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or joining a dance class, find an activity that suits you. Eating well and getting enough sleep are pillars of maintaining physical and emotional health.

Social Support

Your social circle plays a pivotal role during this transition. Spend time with people who uplift you. It’s also a time to give back - helping others can be surprisingly therapeutic. However, avoid the temptation to seek constant distraction from your feelings.

Setting Boundaries

Consider a social media detox or at least unfollowing or muting your ex to avoid the constant reminders. Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries with mutual friends and family members, too. Clear boundaries help create a space where you can heal.

The Art of Letting Go

Letting go is an art. It doesn’t mean forgetting, but rather accepting and moving forward. Acknowledge the good times, learn from the challenges, and then gently let go. This might mean getting rid of physical reminders or consciously stopping yourself when you start to dwell on the past.

Embracing Change and New Beginnings

Change, though scary, is the only constant. Embrace it. Use this time to set new goals and dreams for yourself. Whether professional achievements, personal growth, or new adventures, focus on what lies ahead.

Patience

Lastly, be patient with yourself. Healing isn’t linear, and comparing your journey to others can be counterproductive. Trust that the pain will ease with time, and you’ll emerge stronger.

FROM WASH TO WEAR; MASTER THE ART OF CLOTHING CARE

Know Your Fabrics

Understanding the materials your clothes and accessories are made from is essential for proper care. Different fabrics require different treatment, so take the time to familiarise yourself with the care instructions on the labels. Whether it’s delicate silk or sturdy denim, each material has its own needs to keep it looking its best.

Handle with Care

One of the most common mistakes people make is being too rough with their clothes. Avoid unnecessary wear and tear by handling your garments gently. When putting on or taking off clothes, be mindful of buttons, zippers, and delicate fabrics.

Follow Proper Washing Techniques

Washing your clothes properly is crucial for maintaining their quality. Always separate your laundry into similar colours and wash them in the appropriate settings. Use a gentle detergent suitable for the fabric, and avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure thorough cleaning. Additionally, consider washing clothes inside out to minimize friction and prevent fading.

Air Dry Whenever Possible

Hang your garments to dry whenever possible, especially those made from delicate fabrics like silk and wool. Not only does air drying help to preserve the shape and colour of your clothes, but it also reduces energy consumption and extends the lifespan of your garments.

Invest in Quality Storage Solutions

Proper storage is essential for pro-

The key to building a timeless wardrobe lies not just in what you buy but also in how you care for it. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your favourite pieces last for years to come, saving you money and reducing your environmental footprint in the process.

tecting your clothes and accessories when they’re not in use. Invest in quality hangers, garment bags, and storage bins to keep your items organized and protected from dust, moths, and other potential hazards. When storing seasonal items, make sure they are clean and dry before packing them away, and consider using cedar balls or lavender sachets to repel pests and keep your clothes smelling fresh.

Treat Stains Promptly and Properly

Accidents happen, but how you handle them can make all the difference in the longevity of your clothes. Treat stains promptly using appropriate stain removers or home remedies, but always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging the fabric. Blot, don’t rub, to avoid spreading the stain, and wash the garment as soon as possible to prevent it from setting in.

Rotate Your Wardrobe

Wearing the same clothes and accessories day in and day out can lead to excessive wear and tear. Rotate your wardrobe regularly to give your favourite pieces a break and allow them to recover between wears.

Invest in Professional Care When Needed

Some items, such as delicate fabrics or intricate beading, may require professional care to ensure they remain in pristine condition. Don’t hesitate to take your clothes and accessories to a trusted dry cleaner or tailor for specialized treatment when needed.

VIOLET IYABODE LADIPO FIRST 100 YEARS!

In a country like Nigeria, where the lifespan is estimated to be 56.06 years old, a 0.55% increase from last year’s 55.57 years, turning 100 years old is a huge deal. Violet Iyabode Ladipo, who celebrated her centurion birthday last week, is among the fortunate few whom God has blessed to live that long.

Violet Iyabode, an astute businesswoman and well-respected voice in the food processing industry, assumed control of Lisabi Mills as Managing Director in 1962 at 37, when her late husband Josephus Kayode Ladipo unexpectedly passed away in 1961. With five children to support, she was compelled to venture out and navigate the Lisabi Mills family business’s ship. We can say now that she was up to the challenge because she managed to save the company from a massive loan debt and transformed it into a successful family business that has endured and thrived to this day.

Aunty, as she is also fondly called by her children and all whom she has nurtured (because she is a foster mother to many), is a businesswoman of great distinction who has made significant contributions to the Nigerian food industry. She is highly esteemed by her peers and remains a formidable female entrepreneur in the country. In this interview, she talks to Funke Babs-Kufeji about managing her family business, turning 100, and much more.

Photography- Kunle Ogunfuyi

Happy Centennial birthday to you, ma. This is a big deal, especially in a country like ours (Nigeria). Did you ever believe you would live this long, and can you tell us what has contributed to your longevity?

If God says one can reach that age, who can say no? It’s not my doing, but God’s. All things are possible through God. Once he says this is it, then it is. I don’t have any special diet or anything in particular that do that has made me live this long. eat whatever like, but what I know is that I do everything in moderation. So, will say it’s not my power, but it is by his power, mercies, and glory that he has kept me this long.

Let us go back to when you were the MD of Lisabi Mills, running the company’s day-to-day activities. What was it like to fill the boots of your late husband, and how did you make your own mark?

was really young when my husband passed away, but made up my mind that this business was not going to die because my husband was no more, and had children to bring up. You see, I was not only his wife, who was home taking care of the children, but was part of the factory’s daily operations and knew how things were run, so I followed that trajectory. I was determined not to fail because I knew people were watching. I prayed about it, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work, and today, I’m thankful it all worked out. I wasn’t a professional or an academic or anything like that, but I think my determination, with the help of God and the encouragement and help I got from my children and others who helped me, prevailed.

Being a woman in charge back in the 60’s, what were the challenges you faced, and how were you able to overcome them?

I do not know if faced challenges because was a woman and didn’t notice it. In business, many people will encourage you and discourage you, but once you have your God to direct you and you are honest with whatever you are doing, I think there is nothing you cannot overcome. Honestly, I didn’t know women faced challenges because of their gender because only knew about myself and what happened to me. When took up the role of managing director, knew the ethos and ethics of the company and already had the respect of people working under my husband, so I had no internal issues. Externally, challenges in business, I think, are not peculiar to just women alone; both men and women face challenges, and like told you, I only knew my own challenges and never attributed them to me being a woman, but I kept my focus on what needed to be done and didn’t worry much about what people thought or did. I knew what needed to be done and did it, challenge or no challenge.

Under your leadership, Lisabi Mill was one of Nigeria’s most successful food processing companies and is still a major stakeholder today. Tell us what some of your strategies were to keep the company going.

Like every business owner, think just got on with

it. Nigeria has had the same issues for many years, and we are all aware of the difficulties of doing business in Nigeria, but we get on with it because we must make a living to survive. Did have any strategies? won’t say had strategies, but I had God on my side.

Given your experience as the MD of Lisabi Mills, what are the success factors for anyone who wants to follow your path to success?

will say that an important path to success in business is honesty. Be honest, put God first, and do your best. In my opinion, there is no set path to success; God will crown all of our efforts. I did the little could, and my children also helped me.

challenges in business, I think, are not peculiar to just women alone; both men and women face challenges, and like I told you, I only knew my own challenges and never attributed them to me being a woman

How did you prepare for the days of retirement?

didn’t prepare for retirement. When I left the position of MD, my late son, Dr. Josephus Kehinde, who studied food technology, took over as Managing Director, and I became Chairman. Lisabi Mills was a part of me. I never really retired; stayed to give advice and help my children run the business. They take good care of me, and lack nothing. I’m very content, I am in good health, and I give thanks to God.

What is the most amazing thing that has happened to you or that you have seen in your lifetime, and why does it stand out for you?

There have been so many things that have happened in my life. I’m 100! I won’t say have one single amazing memory, but I will say many things have happened that stand out in my mind. Some good and some bad, but that is life. I remember the death of my late husband. That was a bad time in my life. was young but needed to get on because of my children. Also, remember all my children graduating, growing up, and excelling in their different careers. I’m grateful to God; he is at the centre of everything.

What activities have you found most enjoyable through the years? I hear you play the banjo; tell us more about that. The banjo! haven’t played that in many years. I’m not even sure I can even read music anymore. My husband founded and directed an orchestra, The Mills Orchestra. He played the trumpet, clarinet, and harmonica, and I played the old banjo, so was an active member of the orchestra, but that was so many years ago. I think the banjo is still somewhere in this house. I haven’t seen it in a while.

I like to read. read my bible and do my devotionals daily; I read the newspaper daily because I want to know what is happening in Nigeria; and I read books that are not too voluminous, preferably about the Yoruba and the Egba people. You see, I am an Egba woman, so I like to know about my people. I also like to tend to my plants; for me, it is a form of exercise and keeps me active. weed them one day, and the next day I water them. I also love to dance.

Is there anything you regret or wish you had a chance to change?

I have no regrets. As a person who knows and loves God, know everything that happened in my life was his doing. The Yoruba people will say, “Olorun o kin se nkan Ki o ma fi aye ope si le,” which means God doesn’t do things and does not give room for thanksgiving. have no regrets.

Do you have any advice for us on running a successful business?

My child, just be honest, have a clean heart, and leave the rest to God. We all know how things are in Nigeria today. It’s nothing to write home about. Be honest is what I can tell you.

A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO COLOURING YOUR HAIR AT HOME

Thinking of becoming a little more adventurous with your hair, like dyeing? Then this is for you! There are many misconceptions about hair dyes, including that they cause breakage. While this is true for the most part, you should know that the product, manner of application, and length of wear matter a lot. Therefore, it is essential to approach the process with care and caution. Here are some valuable tips to help beginners achieve beautiful, salon-worthy results at home:

By Bukola Amoboye

1. Choose the Right Shade

Selecting the right hair colour is crucial for achieving your desired look. Consider factors such as your skin tone, natural hair colour, and personal style when choosing a shade. If you’re unsure, start with a shade that hits close to home: a shade close to your natural colour.

2. Read the Instructions

Before getting into the hair dyeing process, carefully read the instructions provided with the dye kit. Pay close attention to the recommended application techniques, processing times, and safety precautions to ensure optimal results and minimise the risk of damage.

3. Perform a Patch Test

Prior to applying the hair dye to your entire head, perform a patch test to check for allergic reactions or sensitivities. Apply a small amount of dye to a discreet area of the skin, such as behind your ear or on your inner elbow, and wait 24-48 hours to observe any adverse reactions before proceeding with full application.

4. Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a clean area for dyeing your hair to minimise mess. Lay down old towels or newspapers to protect surfaces from stains, and wear old clothing you don’t mind getting stained.

5. Protect Your Skin

Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a barrier cream along your hairline, ears, and neck to prevent the dye from staining your skin. This will make cleanup much easier and help prevent unsightly dye stains.

6. Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into sections to ensure an even application of the dye. Start with the bottom sections and work your way up to the top to ensure thorough coverage.

7. Follow Application Guidelines

Apply the hair dye according to the instructions, using a brush or applicator bottle for precise application. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, making sure to saturate each section evenly for consistent colour results.

8. Time it Right

Keep track of the processing time as specified in the instructions, and avoid leaving the dye on longer than recommended. Use a timer to ensure accuracy, and promptly rinse the dye once the processing time is up.

9. Rinse Thoroughly

After the designated processing time, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Follow up with a shampoo and conditioner to help lock in the colour and nourish your hair.

10. Maintain Your Colour

Extend the life of your newly dyed hair colour by using coloursafe hair care products and avoiding excessive heat styling and sun exposure, which can cause premature fading. Touch up your roots as needed to keep your colour looking fresh and vibrant.

THE MODERN GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO ACCESSORIES O

By Funke Babs Kufeji

WATCHES

A classic watch is more than a timekeeping device; it’s a symbol of style and sophistication. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist design or a bold, statement piece, a watch should complement your outfit and fit comfortably on your wrist. For formal occasions, opt for a classic leather strap or a metal bracelet. For casual wear, consider a sporty chronograph or a digital watch.

BELTS

Belts do more than hold up your trousers; they tie your entire outfit together. When choosing a belt, the first rule is to match it with your shoes. A leather belt in black or brown is versatile and can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. For a more relaxed look, try a braided or fabric belt. Ensure the belt fits properly and fasten in the middle hole for an ideal fit.

SUNGLASSES

Apart from protecting your eyes, sunglasses add an edge to your look. Choose a frame that complements your face shape. Aviators and wayfarers are classic choices that suit most face types. For a more contemporary look, try geometric or round frames. Remember, the key is in the balance—our sunglasses should stand out without overpowering your face.

TIES AND POCKET SQUARES

Ties and pocket squares add a touch of elegance to formal attire. The tie should harmonise with your suit and shirt, not compete for attention. Stick to classic colours and patterns for business settings, and feel free to experiment with bolder hues and designs for social events. A pocket square adds a

dash of sophistication and should complement your tie without exactly matching it.

HATS

Hats can transform an outfit from ordinary to noteworthy. From the classic fedora to the laid-back baseball cap, there’s a hat for every style and occasion. A well-fitted hat should be comfortable and proportionate to your face. Be mindful of the occasion and choose a hat that complements your outfit rather than detracts from it.

CUFFLINKS

Cufflinks are a subtle way to add personality to your formalwear. They come in various designs and materials, from classic silver and gold to more modern carbon fibre or enamel. Cufflinks should coordinate with your watch and other jewellery. For a cohesive look, match the metal of your cufflinks with your watch and belt buckle.

BRACELETS: THE SUBTLE STATEMENT

Bracelets can be a subtle way to express your style. From leather bands to metal cuffs, choose a bracelet that reflects your personality. Keep it simple for a sophisticated look; a single, well-chosen bracelet can be more impactful than a cluster of bands.

BAGS

A stylish bag is both practical and fashionable. Whether it’s a briefcase, backpack, or messenger bag, choose one that suits your needs and complements your style. Leather bags in neutral colours are timeless and versatile, while canvas or technical fabrics are more casual and rugged.

IKECHUKWU URUM

BLACK DOESN’T HAVE TO BE BORING

The fashion world whispers a truth universally acknowledged when in doubt, wear black. But before you roll your eyes and dismiss this as another ode to the LBD (Little Black Dress), hear us out. Black, the fashion industry’s darling, doesn’t have to be synonymous with ‘boring’ or ‘predictable’. In fact, with the right mix of creativity and flair, wearing black can be a bold statement. Here’s how to reinvent black for your wardrobe, making it as dynamic and exciting as a technicolor rainbow!

Texture Play

Incorporating diverse textures into your outfit is one secret to elevating black from basic to breathtaking. Mixing textures adds depth and visual interest, making your all-black ensemble anything but ordinary.

Statement Accessories

Accessories are the exclamation points of an outfit, and when it comes to black fashion, they can make all the difference. Opt for bold statement pieces like chunky metallic jewellery, embellished belts, or intricately designed handbags to inject personality and drama into your look. A pop of vibrant colour in your accessories can also provide a striking contrast against the backdrop of black.

Play with Proportions

Playing with proportions is a surefire way to breathe new life into your black attire. Experiment with oversized silhouettes juxtaposed with sleek, form-fitting pieces for a modern and unexpected twist. Pair voluminous wide-leg trousers with a fitted crop top, or layer a structured blazer over a billowy maxi dress for a fashion-forward ensemble that commands attention.

Mix in Metallics

Infusing metallic accents into your black ensemble is a foolproof way to add a touch of glamour and sophistication. Whether it’s a pair of metallic heels, a shimmering clutch, or statement-making metallic detailing on clothing, the interplay between black and metallic hues creates a dynamic and visually captivating aesthetic.

Prints and Patterns

Who says black can’t be playful? Integrate prints and patterns into your black wardrobe to inject personality and whimsy into your outfits. Whether it’s classic stripes, bold florals, or edgy animal prints, incorporating patterns into your black attire adds an element of surprise and individuality.

Layering Mastery

Experiment with layering different lengths, textures, and styles to achieve an effortlessly chic and intriguing look. A longline coat over a sheer blouse, paired with tailored trousers and ankle boots, creates a sophisticated and layered effect that is sure to turn heads.

Unexpected Pairings

Embrace the unexpected by pairing your black staples with unconventional pieces for a look that defies expectations. Mix casual with formal, masculine with feminine, and high-end with low-key for an eclectic and distinctive style that is uniquely yours.

Playful Silhouettes

When styling your black outfits, have fun with silhouettes. Experiment with asymmetric cuts, exaggerated proportions, and unconventional shapes to create a fashion-forward look that is anything but boring. Whether it’s a deconstructed blazer, a sculptural skirt, or avant-garde sleeves, playful silhouettes add an element of intrigue and excitement to your ensemble.

This is Dr. Abiola Salami. As a world-class performance strategist, I understand that any organisation, industry, community, country, or continent that wants to consistently deliver excellence must constantly empower, engage, and recognise the sterling contribution of its women. This is why I have consistently powered a few interventions to support this thinking since 2013, culminating in The Peak Performing Woman of The Year. Every fortnight on this platform, I will share insights to help women flourish and deliver excellence as career professionals, entrepreneurs, and nation builders.

Inclusive Leadership: Fostering A Supportive Environment for Women

Ever before March became universally celebrated as Women’s History Month, Abigail Adam, on March 31st, 1776, wrote a letter to her husband, John Adams, compelling him and his colleagues in the Continental Congress to include women in the scheme of things as America was in the crucible of fighting for independence from Great Britain. Here is an excerpt from her famous letter: “I long to hear that you have declared an independency. And, by the way, in the new code of laws, which I suppose it will be necessary for you to make, I desire you would remember the ladies and be more generous and favourable to them than your ancestors.” It took 144 years since Abigail’s letter before the United States of America got the 19th Amendment in 1920, which legally gave women the right to vote. It took courage and foresight to see that a society where universal suffrage wasn’t allowed was stunted in its development; she imagined that the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave would be the leading light and beacon of hope around the world as it could model inclusion of every demography in what would be described as representative democracy. Here are some ways to deepen inclusive leadership and foster a supportive environment for women.

1. Orientation

Many people, institutions and countries discriminate against women because they don’t know any better. The culture of a people is whatever is generally acceptable and agreed to as a norm at any given time. Thus, if it is normal for women to take the back seat in terms of leadership, chances are the exclusion culture will perpetuate itself. People behave according to their beliefs - to change how people act – there must necessarily be a change in their beliefs. That’s where those of us who know better should come in. A new education and advocacy about inclusion should be the gospel we preach with every opportunity. Everyone will not magically imbibe this enlightenment; it must be relentless and compelling such that even the most incorrigible culprits will reconsider their stance.

2. Inclusive Laws

To put it anecdotally, chickens don’t vote for Christmas, and neither do turkeys vote for Thanksgiving. This means that, left to them, the people who benefit from the exclusion don’t have any incentive to upend the status quo that empowers them. If we were to depend on morality to make women more inclusive in leadership, it would take light years to achieve because the sense of right or wrong is incredibly subjective. Organisations and countries that are progressive in their thinking go beyond

rhetoric to codify their intentions. This is why we have concepts like affirmative action, gender equality and universal suffrage. The very idea of representation is defeated without diversity, and such diversity doesn’t always come organically but through socio-political engineering.

3. Investing in Women & Women Related-Causes

Talent is gender-agnostic, but opportunities are not. That is a gender bias that comes with leadership in many fields that don’t favour women. Taking certain traditional perspectives, for example, some parents don’t think it’s a smart idea to invest heavily in the education of the girl-child because, in their erroneous estimation, girls will end up in their husbands’ houses, change their last names and will not be an insurance policy for age-old. Certain businesses frown at women occupying certain executive positions because they feel women are not ultimate-decision makers, and, in the event of pregnancy, their absence from the workplace owing to maternity leave. In the music industry, many record label execs believe that female talents have a shorter shelf-life than their male colleagues. In politics, most parties don’t think women are sellable candidates on tickets; at best, they are compensated with tokenism by assigning them vice or deputy roles. Even in communities of faith, women leading the line are the exception, not the rule. The laundry list is endless. We must invest in women. Women’s History Month is more than an attempt to pander to the sentiments of women; it is a genuine opportunity to mainstream the conversations around inclusion or the lack thereof. This year, as we celebrate Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, we must be careful to curate their stories as examples of people who move the needle, those who champion the cause for underserved and underrepresented communities. There are thousands, if not millions, of women out there heralding positive changes and making the world much better. Out of sheer determination, most of them have made it to the spotlight, but for everyone who does so, many more are unsung. It is, therefore, incumbent on every one of us to make the space more accommodating and supportive for women to live, love and lead.

ABOUT DR. ABIOLA SALAMI

Dr. Abiola Salami is the Convener of The Dr. Abiola Salami International Leadership Boot Camp, The Peak PerformerTM and The Peak Performing Woman of The Year. He is the author of The Peak Performing Woman’s Companion. He is the Principal Performance Strategist at CHAMP – a full-scale professional services firm trusted by high-performing business leaders for providing Executive Coaching, Workforce Development, and advisory services to improve performance. You can reach him at hello@abiolachamp.com and connect with him at @ abiolachamp on all social media platforms.

FERRAGAMO

JACQMEUS

LEMAIRE

ALEXANDER WANG

MARNI

GIVENCHY

RETROUVAI NECKLACE

ALAIA

ESEOSA ANENIH DERIN ODUGBESAN THOMAS

JENNIFER UKOH-OSAMWONYI

Reflections from a First-Time Mum

There’s a common saying that nothing quite prepares a young woman for the manifold experiences of motherhood, a journey replete with joys, struggles, and a depth of emotion that defies simple explanation. This adage suggests that the essence of being a mother is better lived than described.

As part of our Mother’s Day Celebration this week, we had the privilege of having this conversation with Jennifer UkohOsamwonyi, a first-time mother and the Public Relations Manager at Showmax Nigeria.

For Jennifer, the transition to motherhood has been both beautiful and challenging. “I am learning to take each day as it comes. Some days have been easier than others’’, she says

Can you describe the moment you first realised you were going to be a mother? How did you feel?

The moment the test strip came out positive, my first thoughts were, “Okay! This is really happening. am pregnant.” shared the news with my husband, and together, we celebrated the moment in thanksgiving to God. Following that, began my numerous baby bump checks and did loads of research.

What were some of the initial challenges you faced in the early days of motherhood?

I believe the challenges I faced were similar to what most women faced, with ‘sleep deprivation’ being on top of that list. I also had a bit of a struggle with breastfeeding in the first 48 hours; my milk production was not a lot, but thankfully, I was surrounded by family and nurses who encouraged me to keep at it till we both found our rhythm. Returning to work was also another challenge, as I had to juggle my 9-5 with the responsibilities of being a mum.

How has becoming a mother changed your perspective on life and your priorities?

Before becoming a mother, I did not fully understand the work, energy, and sacrifice it took (and continues to take) to be one. Now, I pay closer attention to life and the people around me. I am more gracious to other mothers and women in general who are at different stages of their journeys.

Becoming a mother has also made me extremely protective and more empathetic. My priorities have also changed. now have this little human who is dependent on me, and have to put her first in every decision I make. basically plan my schedule around her (LOL!).

What has been the most surprising aspect of motherhood for you?

The most surprising aspect is definitely how much love fills my heart whenever I hear, smell or see my daughter. It’s surreal! Her every milestone leaves me in awe. I just catch myself watching her closely. I am intrigued by how her mind works. am already seeing her personality blossom!

What role has your mother played in your journey as a new mom?

There’s no one-sizefits-all approach to motherhood. We are all unique, and our journeys are different.

invaluable to you as a new mother?

Aside from family, I will say friends and acquaintances on social media. When I recently gave birth, my DM was full of resources, tips, prayers, and words of encouragement from fellow mums and people in general. It was really humbling. A particular friend who was in her second pregnancy at the time was extremely helpful every time I needed to talk about what I was going through and what to expect. I also downloaded and signed up for a number of motherhood apps to stay informed.

Before becoming a mother, I did not fully understand the work, energy, and sacrifice it took (and continues to take) to be one. Now, I pay closer attention to life and the people around me

How do you balance the demands of motherhood with your personal time and self-care?

I don’t think one can fully “balance” the demands of both, as sometimes one will have to give way for the other. It’s more of what one considers a priority per time. When my daughter was a newborn, there was no way I could leave her for a spa appointment because bonding with her in those early moments of her life was my priority. Now, I can do that because she is a little older, and I have a robust support system in place. But I will say this, though – it’s important for mums to create time to refresh and reboot because it takes a lot!

My mum has been very much supportive. She has taken off the burden of many tasks from me so that can focus on my child and pretty much be present in the moment. also have aunties and my older sister, who have been on hand to help with my numerous asks. A simple “Don’t worry. It gets better” from my sister, who is also a mum, can be very reassuring.

I also speak to other new mums, and we’re able to learn from each other. Sometimes, it’s just good to know that you are not alone. It truly takes a village to raise a child.

In what ways do you feel society could better support new mothers?

Society should let mothers breathe! There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to motherhood. We are all unique, and our journeys are different. Yes, there are time-tested and trusted methods, but society can support mothers by first being less judgemental. We need to do away with the pressure to “snap back” or to have the next baby. Working mums with young children especially need all the support they can get. The future of work should be one that provides an enabling environment for mothers to thrive. This could be providing in-office childcare or allowing mothers to have some flexibility in the form of closing early or working from home and also supporting fathers with parental/paternal leave so they can care for the baby and support the mother.

What resources or support systems have been

Can you discuss any misconceptions you had about motherhood that have been dispelled?

None, really. I was the cool aunty who did not think so much about motherhood. I just knew that when it was time for me to be a mother, would lean into the Holy Spirit to help me. That’s exactly what am doing now.

How do you manage the balance between work and motherhood?

I am learning to take each day as it comes. Some days have been easier than others. On days I have to work late or travel, I am grateful for my support system, from my husband to my mother and nanny, who allow me to focus on work without worrying much about her.

Looking back, is there anything you wish you knew before becoming a mother?

I will say I wished knew how much sleep would miss in the first year!

Finally, what message would you like to share with other new mothers celebrating their first Mother’s Day?

It’s a blessing, honour and responsibility to be a mother. Cherish it! Enjoy and celebrate every milestone for both you and your baby because time goes by quickly.