THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 17TH JULY 2022 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

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SUNDAY, JULY 17, 2022

OLU JACOBS FIGHTING CHALLENGES AT 80

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Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

EDITOR’S LETTER

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SOCIETY

HIGH

CONTENT

COVER NOTE

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Putting your best foot forward

In the long, storied history of Nigerian film and theatre, is there anyone who should be more celebrated than an actor who, at eighty, has more years of experience and impact than some of us have been alive? And is there an actor alive who is more worthy of honour than Olu Jacobs? Yomi Owope reports

Society OLU JACOBS @ 80

It was an evening of artistic elegance and emotions as RADA trained, award winning actor Olu Jacobs celebrated his 80th birthday alongside side his wife, renowned actress Joke Silva.

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S yle Embracing the ‘Alté Movement

EXECUTIVE EDITOR KONYE NWABOGOR 08111847087

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE EDITOR OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI 08111847086

Lifestyle & Fashion

VISUAL/SENIOR DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500

Gen Z Dating Terms and What They Mean

Ten Things This Week

It’s More Jungle Fever For The Kuku Tribe

Pursuit of Unhappiness

CONTRIBUTORS AZUKA OGUJIUBA DIDEE ETA AYO LAWAL

Ten Restaurant, Bars and Cafe’s Fashion Insiders Love in Lagos

PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO’

Ife Durosinmi – Etti

DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

STYLE CORRESPONDENT ISIOMA USIADE GUEST CORRESPONDENT ENIAFE MOMODU

@thisdaystyle |

eeing how well Olu Jacobs was celebrated this past week warmed my heart. What’s most interesting is that it didn’t come from within his industry alone. This 80-year-old thespian showed up on our screens at a time when the movie industry had no promise of wealth and fame, yet he focused on his passion and craft, building one of the best legacies ever. His life examples have taught us that there is nobility in hard work and traditional values. This right here is reminiscent of what my father always told me. Do your best every time, not just because people are watching but because it is the right way to live your life. In my life experiences, I have found that to be very accurate. Whatever you do in life, doing it to the best of your abilities brings great rewards. And yes, I know that might not necessarily reflect financially, but committing to personal excellence ensures a life full of success, passion, and fulfilment. This concept of excellence can be applied to any area of our life, be it our health, career, or relationships. If we give our absolute best, we achieve miracles. I once read that the average person can achieve at least 20 times more than they do. Imagine what we all can achieve if we truly believe in this statement? Why don’t you take this as a cue to honestly ask yourself if you are capable of achieving more than you have done so far? When you are willing to consider that you are capable of more, you have the right mindset to change your life for the better. Be honest and look carefully at what you have accomplished so far. I often ask myself, “Am I willing to settle for ‘good enough?” I am sometimes, but most of the time, I am not. Especially in my personal life and career, I am just not willing to settle for anything that is not excellent. I might be wrong, but I believe people do not give their best because, deep down, they feel that they are not capable of doing so. At the end of the day, doing better is about YOU. Yes, it takes effort and can be just plain hard. Mentally and physically, it will test your endurance and push you to your limits, but at the end of the day, it will fill you with a sense of accomplishment that only strengthens the good in you. Don’t be one of those who believe that a task that requires effort is not worth doing. Or that great success is only reserved for the truly gifted or very lucky. You cannot make progress unless you know where you are and why you are there. Today, tell yourself that in the past, you did the best you could, but from now on, promise to aim for excellence. After all, excellence is not about what you do but how you do it!

Konye

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SUMMER Scares

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SOCIETY

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SOCIETY

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MR & MRS PETER IGHO

Olu Jacobs @ 80

By Isioma Usiade e and emotions t was an evening of artistic eleganc r Olu Jacobs as RADA trained, award winning acto e side his celebrated his 80th birthday alongsid The event was wife, renowned actress Joke Silva. Memorial held at the historical landmark Glover for the occasion in Hall, Marina, Lagos and bedecked Parts of the enterportraits of the actor and his family. the Lufodo theatre tainment line up included a play by on the life of Jacobs troupe as well as a short docu-film mi. There was not by acclaimed filmmaker Femi Odugbe brant proceeded a dry eye in the house when the cele od delegates as to cut his cake as the veteran Nollywo him a standing ovawell as friends and dignitaries gave tion.

OLU JACOBS & AJOKE SILVA

GLORIA & NOBERT YOUNG

EKITI STATE FIRST LADY, BISI FAYEMI

RICHARD MOFE DAMIJO

SEGUN & DERINSOLA OSOBA EGO BOYO

SONI IRABOR & ALIBABA

TAIWO AJAYI LYCETT

KATE HENSHAW

LATASHA NGWUBE

MO ABUDU

CHUKWUKA & IFEOMA MONYE

SOLA SOBOWALE

CHIOMA UDE

KENZY UDOSEN & DARA EGERTON SHYNGLE

HAUWA MUKAN

HILDA DOKUBO

PATIENCE OZORKWOR

MAY & PATRICK MBU

FEMI ODUGBEMI

VICTOR OSUAGWU

INI EDO

IRETI DOYLE

KUNLE AFOLAYAN

SONNY MACDON

ROLI OLUMIDE & JOKO ABEBE

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Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

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&Embracing the 'Alté' Movement’

STYLE

By Isioma Usiade he Alternative Movement, colloquially known as the ‘Alté Movement,’ traces its roots to Lagos, Nigeria, where young Africans embrace the idea of being misfits or nonconformists. The movement promotes unconventional self-expression in all facets of life, particularly in music, fashion, and visual arts. In celebration of this movement, Google recently hosted a group of 25 alternative creatives, influencers, and journalists from around Africa for a two-day Residency Program in Nairobi to upskill and celebrate young African creatives that identify as Alternative or Non-Mainstream. During the two-day residency, creatives had the opportunity to socialize, share their experiences in their different nations, and discuss potential future partnerships. The program lasted for two days. It is safe to say that Google gathered a mixed bag of the continent’s most fashionable creatives with a variety of stylish, witty, and daring characteristics. Speaking during the Residency, Sharon Machira, Communication and Public Affairs Manager for Google Kenya, said, “Alternative youth culture is rarely recognized in mainstream media; therefore, creators have turned to YouTube to connect with their audiences because there are no barriers to entry. The aim of the residency is to celebrate and amplify the impact of the Alté movement in Africa and the world. “We also want to showcase how products like YouTube Shorts can help drive the culture forward,” added Sharon.

SHARON MACHIRA

DESIGN

SOCIETY

STYLE

WONU OSIKOYA

SIYA MADIKANE

TEMINA KAVELWA SEMO

SINDA MATIKO

Can you speak Gen Z?

ENNEDYMIREMA, AKIBA HAIOZI & DAUDI O

GEN Z DATING TERMS AND WHAT THEY MEAN By Funke Babs-Kufeji

It’s so hard to keep up with Gen Z’s and their dating terms and trends as they seem to invent new ones by the second. Back in the day, dating was so easy. It was a matter of boy meets girl, girl likes boy, he asks her out and voila; they are an item. These days you hear words like gaslighting and situationship and wonder what that has to do with dating. For those who are as confused and curious as us, we have researched the new dating patterns and terms out there. Keep reading to see if you recognise any of them.

Breadcrumbing

LARA RAWA & JUMOKE MICHAEL OJO

ANTO NEOSOUL, MPHO SEBINA & DJ PAYNE

LUCA KENYA

Breadcrumbing is the act of sending out flirtatious but non-committal signals to lure a romantic partner in without putting in too much effort. In other words, someone who breadcrumbs leads you on by dropping small words of interest — an occasional message, phone call, date plan, or social media interaction. In other words, it’s leading someone on. These happen sporadically and usually don’t have any followthrough.

Ghosting

A CROSS SESSION OF THE ALTÉ RESIDENCY

Ghosting is the practice of ending a romantic relationship with someone suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication. You go on a date or two, maybe you get intimate and talk continuously for hours, then one of you goes silent. The person ignores text messages, calls and their social media accounts can no longer be stalked or accessed. Then you’re left staring at your phone and wonder-

ing what went wrong.

Benching

Benching is when a person strings you along as a backup plan with no intentions of a long-term relationship. In other words, like when players get benched in basketball, “benching” refers to keeping someone on the sidelines as an option because you’re not ready to commit or don’t feel strongly enough about them to make anything official.

Vulture

Vulture is when someone senses that a relationship is on the rock, is at the brink of a break, and then starts to get closer to one of the persons who are about to break up with the intention of dating them or having an intimate relationship with them.

Pocketing

Pocketing is when you date someone who keeps you a secret. Someone who is pocketing you probably is already in a relationship or has multiple relationships. Don’t get it twisted; there is a huge difference between keeping things private and hiding your relationship.

Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a term that comes

from the 1944 film Gaslight, where the protagonist’s husband gaslights her by turning down the lights in their home, so they flicker. When she asks him about it, he denies they’re flickering, intending to make her believe it’s all inside her head. Gas lighting is a form of emotional abuse. The person doing the gaslighting creates a situation where the other person starts to doubt their feelings or memories. A series of manipulation tactics makes someone feel like they’re going crazy or can’t trust themselves.

Situationship

Situationship is very easy to define, It’s not a friendship, and it’s not a relationship; it’s something in between. A situationship usually lies between a committed relationship and a friendship — essentially an undefined romantic relationship

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Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

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Ten Things This Week

DESIGN

FUNKE AKINDELE NAMED PDP LAGOS DEPUTY GOV CANDIDATE

SENATOR KASHIM SHETTIMA IS THE APC VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

ollywood actress, Funke Akindele, has been named the Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate of Lagos State. The actress confirmed her deputy governorship candidacy in a video on her verified Instagram page. With this position, she becomes the running mate of the PDP Lagos State governorship candidate, Olajide Adediran, popularly called Jandor.

he presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, has named Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate. He announced this while visiting President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State. With this development, Ibrahim Masari, the placeholder running mate of the APC presidential candidate, has resigned from his hitherto position.

REMEMBERING SOUND SULTAN

uly 11 marked the first anniversary of the death of Nigerian musician, Olanrewaju Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, who passed away after a “hard-fought battle” with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL), a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Regarded as one of the pacesetters of modern hip hop music in Nigeria, the late singer, songwriter, and actor was known for using his music to speak against poverty, corruption, bad governance and societal ills. He was buried in New Jersey, U.S. (the same day he died) according to Muslim rites. He is survived by a wife, three children and his siblings. Continue to RIP LANRE.

THE AFRILEISURE COLLECTION

igeria’s leading Sports and athleisure brand has released its latest collection, The Afrileisure Collection. The collection is designed and made 100% in Nigeria, from original African traditional wear to modern athleisure concepts. The combination of delicate authentic African craftsmanship and well-curated soft fabric gives an all-around comfort for everyday activity.

BRITISH-NIGERIAN KEMI BADENOCH DECLARES FOR THE OFFICE OF U.K. PRIME MINISTER

igerianborn Kemi Badenoch recently made the list for the conservative party tussle to succeed Boris Johnson as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Badenoch will compete for the role of Prime Minister through a thorough voting process which will occur in stages. The winner is scheduled to be announced on September 5 and will automatically become prime minister without needing a national election. Currently, Kemi serves as a Parliament member and has served as Minister of State for Local Government, Faith and Communities and Minister of State for Equalities between 2021 and 2022.

DANGOTE IS NOW THE 63RD BILLIONAIRE IN THE WORLD

BOVI: NAUGHTY BY NATURE

amous Comedian and actor Bovi Ugboma will today play host at his one-man showthemed Bovi: Naughty by Nature. The event, which is taking place at Eko Hotel and suites, features an in-built theatre that accommodates everyone who will be available for the event. Bovi Ugboma has earlier stated that comedy has evolved from cracking jokes to helping people maintain their sanity .“I ensure that people get value for their money. It is not just about entertainment but also a form of therapy. I feel comedians should be designated as doctors.”

STYLE

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TWITTER SUES ELON MUSK TO FORCE HIM TO COMPLETE $44BN ACQUISITION

witter Inc sued Elon Musk on Tuesday for violating his $44 billion deal to buy the social media platform and asked a Delaware court to order the world’s richest person to complete the merger at the agreed $54.20 per Twitter share. “Musk apparently believes that he – unlike every other party subject to Delaware contract law – is free to change his mind, trash the company, disrupt its operations, destroy stockholder value, and walk away,” said the

complaint. The lawsuit sets in motion what promises to be one of the biggest legal showdowns in Wall Street history, involving one of the business world’s most colourful entrepreneurs in a case that will turn on staid contract language. Musk said he was terminating the merger because of the lack of information about spam accounts and inaccurate representations that he said amounted to a “material adverse event.” He also said executive departures amounted to a failure to conduct business in the ordinary course – although Twitter said it removed that language from the merger contract during negotiations. Twitter also said it did not share more information with Musk regarding spam accounts because it feared he would build a competing platform after abandoning the Acquisition.

BURNA BOY RELEASES VISUALS FOR ‘VANILLA.’

ABDUL SAMAD RABIU RE-ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE FRANCE-NIGERIA BUSINESS COUNCIL

F 10

rench President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, as the President of the France-Nigeria business council. The France-Nigeria Business Council inaugurated a year ago, brings together the top businesses in Nigeria and France to improve business relations between Nigeria and France whilst ensuring routine cooperation that will bring about immense economic benefits for both countries.

ccording to a ranking released by Bloomberg, Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote recently became the 63rd richest billionaire in the world. Up 37 places on Bloomberg’s recent billionaire list, Dangote is worth $20.2 billion as of Monday, July 13, 2022. According to the same ranking released by Bloomberg, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been named the richest billionaire. Dangote is the founder, current chairman, and CEO of the Dangote Group, the largest industrial conglomerate in West Africa.

igerian Grammy award-winning Superstar, Burna Boy, has released the visuals for ‘Vanilla’, one of the songs of his latest album ‘Love, Damini’. The music video is a collaboration between Burna Boy and designer sunglasses manufacturer Ray-ban. ‘‘Vanilla‘ is the second video to be released off ‘Love, Damini’ after the visuals for ‘For Your Hand’ featuring Ed Sheeran was released alongside the album. Burna Boy’s most personal body of work yet, ‘Love, Damini ‘boasts of two hit singles — “Kilometre” and “Last Last,” a banger which samples Toni Braxton’s classic, “He Wasn’t Man Enough,”.

COVER

Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

There is nothing more important than doing my personal best in everything, as a father, a husband and as an actor.”

I OLU JACOBS & AJOKE SILVA

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OLU JACOBS AND HIS SONS ; SOJI AND GBENGA

n the long, storied history of Nigerian film and theatre, is there anyone who should be more celebrated than an actor who has more years of experience and impact than some of us have been alive at eighty? And is there an actor alive who is more worthy of honour than Olu Jacobs? An outstanding leading man with an imposing screen presence and a muscular voice, Mr Jacobs, who turned 80 this past week, is a colossus of Nigerian film, dating back more than five decades. He came up at a time when actors were not expected to be rich, and it was more fashionable to be a doctor or a public servant. As a young man, he moved with the relentless urgency of someone who had something to prove, especially to his father, who initially was not in support of his ambition to be an actor. For him, being an actor was borne of passion, not fancy; his life’s calling, not something that happened by accident. “My father was a prolific drummer and entertainer,” he recalled once, “so acting was in my blood.” He credits his journey on stage and television to the legendary Hubert Ogunde, who, around 1950, came to Kano, where Jacobs grew up: “I saw him on stage, and I said to myself, this is the job I want to do, and nothing else.” It’s a well-known story of how, at the age of seven, the young Olu’s simple encounter with Ogunde’s Theatre Party changed his life for the next 70 years. This dream only became possible through the support of his mother and uncle, who were able to help him get to London. He eventually found himself at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, also attended by Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins, Roger Moore and many other legends of film and theatre. Jacobs made his stage debut in 1971 at age 29. Over the next seven years, he would be cast in several theatre productions, including “Julius Caesar” and “Black Man’s Country”. He was simultaneously on television during this period, appearing in popular British shows like “The Professionals” and “The Tomorrow People.”.Often the only black man on set, he was cast in several major motion pictures, most notable of which was “Dogs of War,” where he starred opposite a young Christopher Walken and Tom Berenger in 1980. For Nigerians of a certain age, Olu Jacobs’ most memorable television role was Inspector Best Idafa in the series “Third Eye,” which aired on NTA in the early 90s and hasn’t found its match since. Third Eye, a late Sunday-night staple for years, featuring the late child star, Yomi Adeyemi Wilson, was a detective series that

used clues to solve crimes. It also marked Mr Jacobs’ final relocation back to Nigeria, a decision he never regretted, despite the many challenges besieging the industry at the time. He has said that his return to Nigeria at the time was to help develop the industry. With his wife, the indefatigable Joke Silva, a virtuoso in her own right, Mr Jacobs has been credited with helping to build the next generation of actors through their Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. One of his most quoted sayings, often repeated in interviews and to his proteges, is: “the repetition of an act makes it almost automatic; the more you do something, the better you become.” Therefore, it was no surprise that he continued to strive to improve the industry by training actors and consulting on many productions. Ten years ago, when Mr Jacobs turned 70, he said, “that thing that you have chosen, if it is acting or entertainment, the fire must continue to burn. That is how it has always been and will always be with me.” In recent years though, Mr Jacobs seemed to shun the limelight. It was not until his appearance at the Africa International Film Festival Awards (AFRIFF) last year that it was widely reported that he was ill. His wife Ajoke Silva will eventually confirm this in an interview with Chude Jideonwo; our very own legend, the great Olu Jacobs, had been battling Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) for some time. Like Ulysses, we have to admit that at eighty, “We are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are; Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will. This has in no way whittled his influence on the industry and on the next generation of actors who look up to him. His wife Ajoke Silva In 2013 AMVCAs, where he received the will eventually confirm Industry Merit Award, Mr Jacobs had some advice for young people: “Make sure you know this in an interview what you want, and when you do, pray that you with Chude Jideonwo; recognize it when you see it.” How profound. our very own legend, We have seen Olu Jacobs for over 50 years the great Olu Jacobs, and recognize him as one of the greatest of all time. Happy 80th Birthday to Nollywood’s father had been battling figure, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs. Dementia with Lewy WORDS BY YOMI OWOPE

bodies (DLB) for some time 15

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STYLE

By Funke Babs-Kufeji

Eponymous fashion brand Banke Kuku has updated its Jungle Fever collection. Inspired by nostalgia and the booming 1970s Nigeria, the collection pays homage to the most exciting era for music, art and culture. It features a mix of brights, fresh and playful prints and patterns in a combination of classic and new designs. Short sets, Agbadas, slip dresses in linens, organzas, and the brand’s signature silks are also featured. The collection can be purchased from the Banke Kuku flagship store.

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Life has taught me happy feelings don’t always come. Sometimes, they are experienced at the most unexpected moments, are not promised to anyone, and can be short-lived when obtained.

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IT’S MORE JUNGLE FEVER FOR THE KUKU TRIBE by Princess Modupé Ozolua ModupeOzolua@yahoo.com

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Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

PURSUIT OF UNHAPPINESS “Are you happy?” my late father asked every time we spoke. Without hesitation, I always answered, “Yes, papa, I am happy.” He would respond, “Good, my precious daughter, I want you to always be happy.” Many years later, I finally understand why he always asked that question. Back then, I was naïve and took happiness for granted, thinking it was always guaranteed. Not anymore. Life has taught me happy feelings don’t always come. Sometimes, they are experienced at the most unexpected moments, are not promised to anyone, and can be short-lived when obtained. My darling father, in his wisdom, knew this, but he was wrong in assuming I did. What is happiness? I don’t know. However, I believe happiness should be shelved alongside controversial topics such as religion, politics and sexual preferences because when discussed, people get irrationally emotional about what, how and why it is critical to human existence. Although I might not have a universally acceptable definition of happiness, I believe it should not be obsessed over and only truly experienced when you stop pursuing it. Irrespective of sickness, poverty, unemployment or heartbreak, society and religions expect us to always “be happy;” if not, we are labelled ungrateful because “things could be worse.” Yes, gratitude is fabulous, but does experiencing unhappiness mean we don’t deserve to live? Festivities are worse. They resurrect both good and bad memories because in-between the wonderful Wizkid songs, display of sexy dance steps, chilled champagnes, delicious small chops and laughter, we simultaneously remember our shattered dreams and disappointments. Smiling, we descend into emotional whirlwinds of happiness sprinkled with suppressed anger, shame, jealousy, bitterness and regrets over self and externally

imposed life’s battles. Of course, those feelings cannot be expressed because life’s rat race compels all runners to pursue endless happiness relentlessly. Anything less is an abomination! What is happiness? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, happiness is “a state of well-being and contentment.” What is Contentment? Merriam-Webster says, “It is the quality or state of being contented.” Pardon, but contended with WHAT? It states that Contented is a “feeling or showing satisfaction with one’s possessions, status, or situation.” Huh?! Based on these definitions, can we establish that guaranteed happiness is attained only when we are satisfied with our current possessions, status or situations? Although our definitions of improvement differ, are they saying one should not aspire for better? I don’t believe possessions, status, favourable situations, and marriage are guaranteed recipes for contentment. I have experienced all of those, but the “contentment” experienced was short-lived. If anything, I was filled with prolonged sadness that converted me into a miserable introvert! Can we derive pleasure from material possessions, money or fame? YES. Can we be “happy” when society considers us upright because of marital status or income? YES, but do these guarantee sustainable pleasures? NO. According to research, thanks to our DNA, we must satisfy our never-ending hedonic desires and persistent cravings for MORE because something else is ALWAYS better than what we have. YES, we are conditioned to need external dynamics to feel good…and you KNOW that high feels do damn good! Most of us wear smiling masks deceiving ourselves and others into thinking we are basking in life’s perfect bliss. Some fueling factors for our obsessions are unrealistic expectations of unending joy, fairy-

tale marriages, faithful love, ageless beauty and guaranteed success. Woe betides you should society discover you put on weight because you cheated on the diet while indulging in your favourite foods. Or that your never truly happy relationship finally ended, your children did not perform well at school and are now unemployable, or you finally decided to close your celebrated business, which was indeed a nightmare to your sanity! Questing for never-sufficient smiling adrenaline that seems to please others more than ourselves, some rush into unhappy abusive marriages and develop addictions that could lead to debt, depression, murder and suicide. Considering we are told that happy people live longer, it seems a lot more people die in the process of pursuing it! I concur with philosopher John Stuart Mill, who says, “Ask yourself whether you are happy, and you cease to be so.” Why? We panic when our happy feelings take a toilet break. We immediately start faulting everything, including ourselves and then hunt for new pleasure replacements. Desperate for a happy fix, we move to the next relationship, party or new friends to fill the emptiness. When those also fail, darkness sets in. According to the American Psychological Association, “Happiness may be achieved by simply orienting oneself toward social connections and engagement.” Wow! Talk about pressure to feel an unexplainable sentiment! Does this mean people that do not engage in social rendezvous due to their personality, illness, financial constraints, or work and family commitments are eternally doomed to the land of unhappiness? Happiness is mainly associated with being loved by others, religion, success, physical pleasures and material possessions. Some experience it only when those elements are present, but when gone, their worlds collapse. Rather than pondering on definitions, maybe

we should ask, “what moments do we experience joy? Genuinely smile? What do you selflessly enjoy doing?” According to philosopher John Mill, “only those who have their minds fixed on some object other than their happiness…find happiness by the way.” I partly agree with Mill’s position because I find tremendous pleasure when engaging in humanitarian activities. Conversely, despite the pleasure, I eventually feel fatigued, unappreciated and need a break. Yet, before long, I miss the “happiness” derived from the programs and return for more. Wait, do prolong pleasures eventually lead to resentment? Considering the great lengths we go through to experience happiness, is the Universe trying to save us from self-destruction by restricting doses of this addictive sensation because too much eventually evolves into “unhappiness?” Is that why some people unexplainably eventually resent things/people that previously gave them so much ecstasy? Is temporary sadness a death sentence? Is the need to be loved, drive for success, love of religion, enjoy physical pleasures and desires for possessions a flaw in our DNA or deliberate mechanisms placed to prevent self-destruction? What are the alternatives? Should we continue searching for them? Some psychologists say the search for happiness is endless due to our greedy genes. Others say it is achievable by being a social butterfly, and a reputable dictionary says it is only obtainable by not desiring more than you already have. Despite the confusing definitions, most would agree that once experienced; we want more. Whatever it is, I believe happiness is a shapeshifter that cannot be clung to. It is a free radical Spirit that only visits when it feels we deserve to be graced by its magnificent presence. Now, I ask you…what is happiness? Do YOU truly know what it is, and WHY do YOU deserve it?

July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929 S Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929 S yle yle Sunday,

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1) Nok By Alara

DESIGN ENTERTAINMENT

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Nok by Alara is a typical fine dining setting with a contemporary pan-African twist. It’s located at Victoria Island, and it’s a beautifully designed piece of architecture with nicely furnished interior and exterior rich with greenery and art from across the country. The menu is a revamped list of already known African dishes expressed innovatively.

2) Circa non-Pareil

RESTAURANT, BARS AND CAFE’S FASHION INSIDERS LOVE IN LAGOS.

Circa non-Pareil is a restaurant everyone needs to at least experience once in their lifetime. Located off admiralty way in lekki. It boasts a rather diverse architectural design comprising the following compartments: a private restaurant, lounge, rooftop and another restaurant on the terrace that faces the beautiful lagoon. You’ll enjoy wonderfully prepared French, African and grilled cuisines.

3) Sketch Lagos

Sketch Lagos has to be one of the most artistically creative spaces ever because it’s almost like walking into a storybook. It’s located at Victoria Island, with an interior finishing of 2D/3D elements everywhere which is quite intriguing. The food is delicious, mainly because they also have Egyptian cuisine on their menu. And cocktails that’ll melt your heart.

By Charles Didee Eta

Isn’t it cute how fashionistas sometimes separate themselves from everyone else, especially with the places they want to hang out, totally strapped with emphasis on how they want the entire experience to be? Usually, top on their list would be a photo-ready space, which is quite understandable considering how important it is for Instagram-worthy images. Next is how eclectic the place can be, and the last but certainly not the least thing is to be able to meet equally creative people. In as much as this lifestyle may seem larger than life, a certain level of simplicity comes with the terrain of being a fashion person. So, expect luxury spots and places that are pretty laid-back and relatable. On this list, we have 10 of these favourite go-to’s here in Lagos.

4) Hard Rock Cafe 4) Hard Rock Cafe 8) Kapadoccia

Hard Rock Cafe is located along the beach line at Victoria Island. The Rock ‘n’ Roll themed franchise is a high-energy place specialising in burgers and classic American cuisines. The building has two floors, including indoor/outdoor seating, an inside/outside bar, a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and a swimming pool area that’s bound to be a one-of-a-kind dining experience for you.

5) Slice Lagos

Slice Lagos is an upscale contemporary restaurant right in the heart of Victoria Island. They literally combine the flavours of numerous cultural cuisines and happen to have a jaw-dropping space with artistic vibes that can be quite memorable.

1) Nok By Alara

DESIGN ENTERTAINMENT

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Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9927 Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

6) Light House Bar & Grill

The lighthouse bar & grill is an outdoor and indoor seating that’s so easily accessible. It’s located off admiralty way Lekki phase one, with a couple of lovely advantages: it gives you the amazing view of the lagoon, probably the nicest grilled food you’ll ever have, and an impressive drink menu of cause.

5) Slice Lagos 9) Kaly Restaurant

7) Eric Kayser

Eric Kayser has one of the best ambiences on this list. It’s located in the ikoyi environment and is known for its Italian offerings. Like the delicious pasta, you should also visit them for their freshly made pastries, especially the croissants, which are usually so moist and irresistible.

8) Kapadoccia

Kappadocia is undoubtedly the first and only cave restaurant in Lagos. Located in Victoria Island, it’s named after the prehistoric city of Cappadocia in turkey. They create a delicious fusion of Nigerian and Turkish cultures that put you on a surreal journey of adventure and discovery while maintaining a dedication to customer satisfaction at the same time. Exciting, isn’t it?

2) Circa non-Pareil

6) Light House Bar & Grill

10) South Eatery and Social House

9) Kaly Restaurant

Kaly Restaurant is quite a lavish place with a bar/lounge included, and the fun part is its structure overlooks Eko Atlantic. It is located in Victoria Island in Lagos and has a lovely ambience and aesthetic. Bringing the best of Mediterranean culture & cuisines that have a great mix of exotic flavours adding an interesting tang to each item on their menu. Plus, the drinks are also carefully curated for personal preferences.

10) South Eatery and Social House

7) Eric Kayser

South Social, as it’s popularly called, is a major hub within the Lekki phase one environment. This New Orleans-inspired gastro pub offers probably the best Burgers and Southern American food. The ambience is quite casual with indoor and outdoor spaces. And with such a memorable bar set-up, you’ll find that their cocktail menu is top-notch.

S yle Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

Ife Durosinmi – Etti &

S yle

DESIGN

STYLE

DESIGN

STYLE

The importance of saving for a rainy day can never be overemphasised, moreso as a woman living with the current harsh realities in our country. Enter Ife Durosinmi – Etti, founder and CEO of Herconomy, who, through her platform, champions high-yield, low-risk savings opportunities for women to help reach their savings goals faster. Through her platform, she has brought together a community of like-minded women focused on connecting each other to various opportunities such as scholarships, grants, fellowships and job opportunities. With a BSc in Biochemistry and an MBA in Global Business, Ife has recently worked across several industries from banking, Fashion, FMCG to Tech and has built relationships, which coincidentally is a huge part of what she does today. She is also part of the Africa Startup Initiative (ASIP) Accelerator Programme and a recruitment partner with Amazon. In acknowledgement of her achievements, she received the Women’s Advocacy Award from the West African Leadership Organisation for her exemplary leadership and dedication to socio-economic development in West Africa. She was also named a Peace Scholar by the Dutch Ministry of foreign affairs and appointed as a Youth Advisory Group Member for Solutions for Youth Employment (S4YE), a global coalition formed by the World Bank to catalyse employment support and productive work for 150 million youth by 2030. This week, she lets RUKY SALAKO in on her journey so far, building Herconomy, the fintech industry and her plans going forward. What was the ‘lightbulb’ moment and motivation for launching Herconomy? Laughs. Everyone always asks me this question. I’ve always been an advocate for women since I was very young. I never liked seeing men bully women. I saw many women give up their careers after getting married, but the men later abandoned them, mainly because they didn’t measure up anymore. I saw domestic violence happen; women couldn’t save themselves or move out because they didn’t have a choice. I saw men lose their jobs, and my friends lives changed for the worst because their dads were the only ones bringing in income. I saw many policies that didn’t favour women because they weren’t in those rooms where the policies were created. Also, as I got older, I noticed that things started getting a bit better for women but at a certain class. I didn’t like all I had seen and experienced. I saw only the same women in specific rooms, so I knew that information was now a problem. At this time, I was a lot older and more informed; I knew I had to do something about it with the little I had. So, I created a community called AGS Tribe to empower women by giving them access to an amazing community of empowered women, capacity building and access to opportunities that could boost their careers or business. This community grew very fast over a year. In between, I shared my story with my community members about the fact that I couldn’t save and how it was challenging to save even though I was earning well and working at a multinational company. I shared how now, as an entrepreneur, I started saving N1,000 a day and now was on N10,000 a day and how I felt saving was more of a mindset thing that became addictive once you start seeing your money grow. Many people began reaching out to me to say they also had the same challenge, so we decided to host a savings challenge to encourage more women to save. We called it the AGS Savings Challenge, which was done on another savings platform. We got over five

intentionally built my network from primary school. It wasn’t stressful at all. I knew my target already was women. I understood the needs and created ways we could address those needs, and in a year, we grew to over 1600 paying members. Still, I knew I wanted to reach even more women, and some of those women may not have been able to pay, so we decided to introduce a free membership tier which was still valuable. Today, we have over 17,000 members.

hundred women to join us on this challenge. When it ended, our members still requested to save more and wanted it to be more consistent. At this time, we had also built our mobile app for our community, so we wanted the savings feature on the mobile app, and we were going to do it in partnership with the company again, but their tech platform wasn’t ready for us at the time. The pressure grew, so I decided to build the savings product from scratch in-house, and that’s how we also decided to change our name, so Herconomy was launched. Did you have any prior experience which prepared you for this? Haha. Honestly, nothing prepared me for this life. I was a strict science student who never thought I could do anything businessrelated. When I did my MBA, I didn’t really enjoy the finance classes. I don’t know if it was because I was young, but I honestly didn’t enjoy reading finance, but my interest in it grew as I got older. I realised that because I didn’t enjoy it growing up, I could explain or break down things better, making it easier for people to grasp. I am now keener to learn. I recently took a Fintech Course with Said Business School University of Oxford. I ask a lot of questions. I also believe in the power of a team. I cannot know it all, so I am happy to delegate things to trusted team members and focus my energy on areas I am excellent at, and things have worked for us this way. I am a big risk-taker and am happy I took on this huge challenge that didn’t seem qualified on paper. In my books, all that is jargon. God qualifies the called. My job is to be willing and open to learning, make mistakes, learn from them and grow FAST. I imagine it wasn’t an easy task building an online-based community of women. How did you go about it? What were your biggest issues and challenges? Building a community was actually second nature for me. As I mentioned, I have

How far have you come in realising your mission? Haha, I’ve not even scratched the surface. I am still very far from my mission. I aim to have at least 1 million women with at least 100,000 in their bank accounts with us by 2025. How does Herconomy work, and what are the benefits of being a part of your community? With Herconomy, you build an amazing savings culture. On our platform, you not only save and earn high interests, but you also save as you spend on things you need as a woman. We currently partner with restaurants, retail stores, hotels, accommodation, travel, health care companies, etc. These are brands women need. On top of this, once you start saving with us, you can access our weekly capacity-building sessions and networking events. We understand women’s peculiar needs, which is why we are building the future of banking for women. We understand that women cannot be empowered through bank accounts alone. According to Melinda Gates, women need access to a network of like-minded women and training. We are creating an ecosystem that provides just that.

I knew I had to do something about it with the little I had. So, I created a community called AGS Tribe to empower women by giving them access to an amazing community of empowered women, capacity building and access to opportunities that could boost their careers or business.

How can participation in your network help empower females already in leadership positions? Leadership is about service, and as leaders, your number one responsibility should be to create other leaders. That alone is empowering. When you can see another woman grow just because you created time and resources to pull her up. You also grow your network; People do business/work with people they know and trust. A community is a place where you can grow that network. Yes, you’re already a CEO or in a top position in your organisation, but do you know how to serve on boards? There’s always something new to learn; if you aren’t learning, you are also giving back. We need to look more at how we can give and not just ‘take’.

Speaking of communities, how has your experience with Herconomy impacted you as a person? Building a community like Herconomy has been a blessing for me. I have seen so many people grow right through my eyes. We have come through for different families, and I am happy that, as a community, we go through so many issues together. I will give two examples, a happy one and a sorrowful one. I actually get goosebumps when I think about how far we have come. I met Maryam Salami in 2018. She attended our training and eventually received a $5,000 grant from us in 2019. Since then, her business has quadrupled in revenue. She is now NAFDAC certified. She now has over 27 distributors across the country; she has moved into her factory space. Her business has been able to employ more people, and she has moved her children to better schools. Because of this one woman, her community is blessed. We have many more success stories like this. Another example of how we have come through for our members is Olamide Alli. In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, her fiancé, who later committed suicide on the same day, murdered her. It was such a horrific and painful situation, but we swung into action as a community. They had two kids, and in less than a week, we raised 26 million Naira and kept it in a trust fund for her children’s education. Building this community has brought me so much peace and direction, and I am honestly so glad I decided to risk it all and pursue it. It has given me a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Let’s talk about the Fintech industry; what do you think are the major barriers to the advancement of women in this space? This industry is tough, period. I do not think it’s peculiar to women, though; it’s tough generally for everyone because it is highly regulated, but guess what, you’re dealing with other people’s money. It needs to be regulated seriously. Do you think society should be doing more to encourage women and young girls to consider a career in tech? Oh yes, for sure. We need to encourage so many young women to choose careers in tech not just because it pays more or gives you flexibility but because Technology is the future. It was a huge task when I was looking for a Chief Technical Officer (CTO) to join me in building Herconomy. I wanted it to be a woman, primarily because of what we were building, but it was extremely hard to find one; but I am glad we did, in the end. Today, we have about 13 people on our tech team asides from our CTO, and they are all men. Very painful, but we need to build with the current resources. I love them too, but we need more female tech talent. Where do you see Herconomy in the next ten years? I see Herconomy becoming the choice bank for women in Africa. I see many women in the network growing because they met in our community. I see many more women deciding to build their careers and homes without having to choose because they saw other women do it within the community. Drawing on your experience, what advice would you give to all those women who are on their road to success but encounter challenges on the way and are an exception within a male-dominated company? You will meet even more challenges; use them as fuel to push you to the next level. Never give up. You are closer than you think. Anything else you would like me to know? Oh yes, for sure, Save with Herconomy by visiting our web app on dashboard.herconomy.com or download our mobile app on the Play Store. Our platform is straightforward to use. Join us on our journey to build the future of banking for women. Saving is just step 1!

S yle Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

Sunday, July 17, 2022 Vol. 22, No. 9929

S yle

theayolawal@gmail.com

A-Gen with

Ayo Lawal On February 14, 2022, the Academic Staff Union of Universities - the umbrella body of the teaching staff of Nigerian public universities - announced a ‘warning’ strike in yet another “Money in the Bank” wrestling match with the Federal Government. The reason for this 16th strike in 23years? ASUU accused the government of failing to implement the Memorandum of Understanding and Memorandum of Action signed between the union and the government. The government’s poor commitment to the payment of academic earned allowances, the continued use of the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System and refusal to adopt the Universities Transparency and Accountability Solution, plus the expansion of the universities in the country. Since ASUU’s first strike in 1988, when it protested against the extremities of the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, which led to the group’s ban on August 7, 1988, the union’s strikes in Nigeria have been so repeatedly over the years. It has almost become a yearly event, a time when academic activities stall and public universities go on forced breaks. A forced break that puts students’ lives on hold and, in turn, prolongs their academic timeline by years. Not-so-shocking, some of them have experienced more than one ASUU strike in their journeys toward higher education. I spoke to a few of these lives affected.

OLAMIDE UNILAG - YEAR ONE Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? Oh Yes How has this affected you? Tbh, I’m good. I mean, I expected it, but not so soon. I got my admission the week the strike started. I got a job and learning a skill - just trying to improve. I’m doing what I can; I don’t think about it much. What I know is my destiny is not at the mercy of Nigeria. Governments and systems work in my favour. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Whenever they open it, I’ll go back - Finish it up. Wherever God says I should go, I go at this point.

MOSOPE OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY - YEAR FOUR Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? No, this should be my third strike experience. How has this affected you? Can I really put it into words?The emotional drain, plus emotional fatigue and sadness.

ASUU Abeg!

Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Yes, my parents would never consent to me stopping school.

MICHAEL UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN - YEAR ONE Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? Yes How has this affected you? I have lost my enthusiasm and energy for schooling. Currently, I have disconnected from everything related to school. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? No. But then, because of my parents, I don’t have a choice.

OYIN OAU- YEAR FOUR Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? Nope How has this affected you? Academically, I’m always trying to catch up - just to pass exams. I’m really not learning anymore. Mentally, I am past annoyed, which is dangerous because now I don’t care anymore. Emotionally, I sometimes leave my parent’s house to avoid slipping back into anxiety. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Tbh, I don’t know if I can get the opportunities I want without a degree.

OFFIONG UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR - YEAR FOUR Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? Nope. There’s been a strike every year since I got into University. So this isn’t my first rodeo. How has this affected you? Lol. My mates and juniors in private universities have finished. This should have been my grad year. We were class of ‘22, Covid happened and made us the class of ‘23. I still have a semester and a whole session before I can say done and dusted. I hope I eventually finish next year, but this country doesn’t care about your feelings and hopes, so I’m just here hanging. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Lmao. Na me talk “law or nothing”. I’ve given a lot, made progress, and have hope. Also, I’m being sponsored. It’ll be a tad bit unfair to my parents and myself to give up.

TOLU UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS - YEAR THREE Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? No How has this affected you? Academically I’m stunted. Mentally, nothing is stimulating my mind. Emotionally, I was tired and frustrated at first, but now I’m just numb. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Yes, the three years I’ve spent can’t be for nothing.

JUMPMAN UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA - YEAR FOUR Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? At all. My third one or so How has this affected you? Well, I wouldn’t say I’ve been really affected by it. If anything, I’ve had time to focus on production. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Yeah sure. It’s destabilising for sure, but it’s one final lap.

TITILOPE UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN - YEAR THREE Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? No, this is the second time. How has this affected you? Academically, I don’t think I’d realise the full extent of its effect till we resume. Seemingly, there’s more time to think now, and it’s usual thoughts on stupid things I’ve done in the past, and it comes with regret. This makes me anxious for my future. However, in some ways, I’m thankful for it. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? In Nigeria? I really don’t know. Mine is a medical course I want to continue with and eventually practice. It’s not like one can walk to Australia. So I’m honestly in a bind in my head right now.

CALEB KADUNA STATE UNIVERSITY - YEAR FIVE Is this your first time experiencing an ASUU Strike? Not at all! How has this affected you? I feel like my life is on pause, and when we eventually resume, I have to put in extra work. Are you still willing to continue your schooling? Yeah, I really need this degree.