...NOT IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN YOU’RE NOT IN STYLE
BOY BURNA
BANA OBI CU
A JARUM
LOF MR JOL DIKEH TONTO
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2021
SKY BOBRI
EKE MERCY
A AKINW M E K TO Y MIKE PRETT
, A I D E M L A I C ! O A S Y MEDI Z A CR G! N I ND A T S L L STI
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CONTENT Fashion MOST DRAMATIC OUTFIT PG 6-7
STYLISH SUN HATS PG 8-9 MATCH THE FACES
10-11
NOLLYWOOD LADIES
PG
• CAPSULES • COLOURS OF LIFE
ON ARISEPLAY
PG 19
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL PG 20
HABITS THAT MIGHT BE CAUSING YOU TO BREAKOUT PG 21
BATH OIL Social media platforms have come a long way over years and play a significant role in most of our daily lives. It is one of the major and probably the best platforms for communicating and connecting us to, family, friends and like minds from different parts of the world. Social media is also an outlet to express and showcase creativity and selfexpression and much more. Social media, therefore, is a gift and a curse but it is up to you to determine which it will be for you because there are as many pros as there are cons to courting social media. FUNKE BABS KUFEJI reports…
THISDAY STYLE FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR RUTH OSIME
08111847085
EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR
08111847086
08111847087
SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 CONTRIBUTORS ISIOMA USIADE GUEST CORRESPONDENTS AZUKA OGUJIUBA ZINA ANUMUDU JOANNA MACGREGOR SEYI ALAWODE PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196
PG 22
There was a time when the stiff upper lip was the order of the day. Many things about our private lives were kept sacred and there was such a thing as aura of mystery. Characters were dissected like the peeling of an onion. With each peel was a new found layer. There was curiousity and the somewhat excitement of new discovery with each find. Well, those days are long gone. With the advent of social media, nothing is sacred anymore. Everything is out there. And the more shocking, the higher the followers. As Africans, age old traditions of preservation of certain things have long become outdated. In fact, every single thing, up to when you go to the loo is documented for all to see. You can choose to ‘tell it all’ with no holds barred. In fact people have become famous simply for living their lives out on social media. Like with everything in live, we have the good, The Bad and The Ugly! Our Social Media Sensations have made lives just a tad more exciting with their outrageous posts and comments. They say and do what most people can only think but dare not act out. They have awakened the ‘innermost’ thoughts people harbour but do not have the guts to see through physically. Who would have ever thought there would come a time in Nigeria where tranverstites are ‘celebrated’? Who would have thought that marketing sexual enhancers would be acceptable. These are the sign of the times where a reality show would garner more likes than a celebrated academically genius. But there are also many pluses to this phenomenon called social media. Worthy cause have gained more attention than ever. Otherwise hidden or covered crimes have been highlighted and showcased at the touch of a button. Hidden talents that would never have seen the light of day been discovered and celebrated. Many businesses have started from nothing and grown to global brands simply because of the content of their pages. The sky is now the limit. People have created brands they would otherwise have been unable to just a few years back. Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Twitter: @thisdaystyleon | Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Website: www.thisdaystyle.ng
FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
Boater
A preppier take on the sun hat, this variation usually has a slightly more compact brim and works well for dressier occasions like garden cocktail parties. Embrace the summery sophistication by wearing it with a white free top and tailored pants or a breezy linen dress or jumpsuit. YAMIKO
Frayed Straw Hat
BY USIADE ISIOMA
With an artisanal feel, there’s no denying the allure of a straw hat with frayed detailing at the brim. Whether your taste tends toward a curved silhouette, a floppy style, or a Panama shape, there are myriad versions to choose from both for beach days and city strolls alike. RENEE
HATS
The temperature is certainly on the rise, and it’s more important than ever that you take care of your skin. Wearing a hat this period is a great way to elevate your outfit but also to stay sun-smart. Not only can you unleash your inner aesthetic, but you can truly master the latest fashion trends while staying cool in the heat. Whether you’re looking for a timeless beach hat, casual-cool style, or glamorous silhouette made for jet-setting, below, we will guide you through the chicest hat trends of the year. From throwback buckets to supersized straw shapes and brimmed classics, you’ll be sure to find your perfect style.
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Visor
This is your go-to when you want to show off your killer ponytail, top knot, chignon, or braid while also protecting yourself from the sun. Get playful with texture here, a translucent coloured brim and sleek leather band will give you a more contemporary aesthetic, while a woven straw pattern channels a subtler seaside spirit. TOKE MAKINWA
Bucket Hat
Another casual hat infiltrating the world of impeccably woven shapes and brimmed classics, bucket hats have become the coveted accessory trend to try with a nostalgic bend. Though they’re inherently sporty, designers like Dior and Prada proved how elevated and feminine the hat style could be. To wit, stylish fashionistas have demonstrated the bucket hat’s appeal for a stylish summer look; the key is leaning into the minimalist aesthetic. NAFY BELLA
Sun hat
Panama hat
This breezy, wide-brimmed number synonymous with Bond villains is perfect for hot, humid temps and beachside locales. It’s a bit more formal than the sun hat, so you can pair it with a flowing maxi or a linen jumpsuit at cocktail hour on your next tropical vacation. SHANNAH
Nothing says languorous poolside glamour like a billowy sunhat. The full-circle brim provides instant shade, while elevating the elegance factor be it with a one-piece swimsuit, a maxi dress, or short shorts and tank. Keep a couple of sun hats in your closet, so you can change up brim widths depending on how strong the sun is. SADE AKINOSHO
The Supersized Straw Hat
No summer hat trend is more statementmaking or glamorous than the supersized straw hat. What has become synonymous with the French label, Jacquemus, billowing brims that extend out past your shoulders, and in some cases, reach arm’s length, are the ultimate in chic sun protection. This XXL take on timeless straw design is one we love for sun-drenched days on the beach, aboard a yacht, or for luxuriating poolside. ALERO
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
DRAMATIC OUTFITS
T S O M
@2021
KIM PETRAS IN COLLINA STRADA
ALLYSON FELIX WEARING FENDI COURTURE BY MR KIM JONES
DAN LEVY IN LOEWE
MET GALA
KIM KARDASHIAN IN BALENCIAGA
GABRIELLA UNION-WADE IN IRIS VAN HERPEN
BY USIADE ISIOMA
LILI REINHART IN CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
MJ RODRIGUEZ IN THOM BROWNE VIRGIL ABLOH
LIL NAS X IN VERSACE
ERYKAH BADU IN THOM BROWNE RIHANNA IN BALENCIAGA
IMAN IN HARRIS REED AND DOLCE&GABBANA
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MOST DRAMATIC OUTFITS AT MET GALA 2021 by USIADE ISIOMA Affectionately referred to as “fashion’s biggest night out,” the Met Gala is typically held on the first Monday in May, but this year, the event was postponed due to COVID-19 and fell right in the middle of fashion month September 13th at its usual location: the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The gala was in celebration of the Costume Institute’s newest exhibition, “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” which opens to the public in the Anna Wintour Costume Center on September 18th. The event welcomes stars, young creatives, and industry paragons, the celebrity guests embodied the theme of American style, from flashy, star-spangled ensembles, to more discreet nods to Americana motifs. The Met Gala’s red carpet has a history of creating memorable outfits of past events’ biggest moments and below are the most dramatic outfits that made fashion statements this year!
SIMONE BILE WEARING ATHLETA AND AREA CUSTOM DRESS
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F h a c c t e a s M
STYLE & DESIGN
er? c n e u infl e t i r u avo f r u o y w o n k ou y o d l el How w
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
REFER TO PAGE 20 FOR ANSWERS
THE
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
BY US IA
DE ISI
She wears many hats…beauty Queen, reality show contestant, model, social media influencer, the whole nine yards! Fill in the gap!
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There’s something that stands out with this lady. It’s the first thing you notice about her but not the only thing she is known for. From her spell at her last reality show, she has gone on to build her brand by creating a presence online selling products that best packages what stands out most about her.
Both her names begin with the 12th letter of the Alphabet. Less than a decade ago, she scooped the title of Miss Photogenic at MBGN. She is a young and energetic actress from a state whose spelling begins with the first letter of the alphabet! She’s also a business woman who runs a hair company beginning with B, of which she is the CEO. She is an only child and she has a popularly coined name by her fans.
Though she emerged winner, the first female to do so actually, in a famous show in Nigeria several years back, she remains relevant today especially as a vixen. So much so that she was nicknamed after a famous luxurious car not to mention her other moniker which makes her ‘Q of H’!
She is very much an influencer on the social media space. She runs a you tube channel not to mention the various challenges she participates in. All her slots are well thought through. She is a face that has staying power and she knows how to use it well.
She has successfully blended in two far apart aspects in public and private service. Both as a participant in a reality show and modeling industry all the way to the political arena as a Special Assistant to a Governor. Such versatility shows her adaptation to anything she puts her mind to. Now she runs her own shoe business. This is definitely a woman with so much diversity as she is also an ambassador. Coat of many colours spring to mind.
OMA
Born in the early 90s, she was a trending topic during one of Nigeria’s biggest shows of which she almost cinched the title of winner. A few shorts years back, she launched a sports clothing line, names begins with a C. She was given an award recently by a paper whose brandname begins with the same letter C. She has won several other awards from the social media awards.
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COVER
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
COVER
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
CONTROVERSY COURTERS
N
SOCIAL MEDIA, CRAZY MEDIA!
With the technological advances and the increased scope of media, communication with anyone worldwide is at the tap of a finger. Gone are the days of waiting for hours or sometimes, days to keep abreast of things, now it’s just a fraction of seconds, all thanks to the internet and social media platforms. These platforms are the easiest way to connect to people all over the world. But as with every silver lining, there’s always a dark cloud lurking around. There are pros and cons. Two sides to every coin. On the positive side, Social media is one of the easiest, fastest ways of communicating; it helps to stay up to date with family and friends worldwide. It helps connect people to new friends and communities; network with other people who share similar interests or ambitions. It allows for effective advertising because of its broad reach, costeffectiveness and business development features. Social media is also an outlet to express and showcase creativity and self-expression, and much more. On the negative side, social media keeps you hooked for hours on end, which can also be addictive. It has also killed the need to dialogue as people are too engrossed with their phones. Many accidents have occurred when users were too distracted to see what is in front of them. Numerous posts about ‘perceived and packaged’ lifestyles displayed on various pages increase the feelings of inadequacy and discontent amongst followers. Even though many images viewed on social media are heavily filtered and airbrushed, many people cannot see beyond the ‘perfect’ images. Not also getting as many ‘likes’ on your page can lead to despondency. Many a time, some posts are made as far from reality as possible. A prime example of ‘judging a book by it’s cover’ which most times, is different from what is portrayed. There is also the obsession to put everything out there, so much so, that privacy has fast become a thing of the past in today’s times. As human beings, we most times, need face-to-face contact to mentally connect. Nothing reduces stress and boosts your mood faster or more effectively than eye-to-eye contact with someone who cares about you. The more you prioritize social media interaction over in-person relationships, the more you’re at risk for developing or exacerbating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Social media, therefore, is a gift and a curse, but it is up to you to determine which it will be for you because there are as many pros as there are cons to courting social media. 14
T
igerian tranversite/ cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known to as Bobrisky, is a celebrity known for controversies on social media. He rose to fame via snap chat giving his viewers a daily dose of his life as a man dressed up as a woman and making insightful statements about being the biggest ‘girl’ in Nigeria. Over the years, Bobrisky has had good and bad social media publicity, but he remains one of the most intriguing celebrities on social media. His recent birthday party was one of the most talked-about social media topics this year. He dresses like a woman, acts like a woman and actually boasts of his many beaus who spend lavishly on him. He/She has many times, dared women to step up to him when it comes to showing off and using his ‘assets’ well!
onto Dikeh is unarguably Nollywood’s most controversial actress. The singer, songwriter, and actress came into the social media limelight when her marriage dispute with her ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill, was made public on social media. She made several alligations concerning him which eventually led to their divorce. The mother of one is also one of Nollywood’s most prominent actors but has caused more controversies with her posts and comments on her personal life than her acting career. Tonto was in a recent in social media brouhaha with her now ex-boyfriend, who claims the actress can only be compared to Helen of Troy.
B
urnaboy is one of Nigeria’s biggest music exports to the world and easily one of the most talented musicians in Africa today. But like with all superstars, perceptions are made rightly or wrongly depending on what is posted about them. The Grammy and BET award winner is known for making controversial statements on Twitter or dragging issues with fellow Nigerian musical artists, claiming to be the best in the music game. He is also controversial for criticizing the Nigerian government, but if anything, this only increases his already massive following on all major social platforms.
T
oke Makinwa is also undoubtedly one of the most controversial social media celebrities in Nigeria. The OAP and actress is a very vocal celebrity who never shies away from making statements that are so bold it’s knocks the socks off listeners! She says things that people might think but are not brave enough to say. Some of her comments have sparked numerous debates among Nigerian social media users. Her TikTok impersonations are also literally off the roof with each one getting tens of thousands of likes each time. Toke loves attention and knows how to keep her audience captivated. Like her or not, she cannot be ignored. Even with all the negative backlash she has gotten for some of her outrageous commentaries, Toke has built a solid personal brand that has made her one of Nigeria’s highest-paid social media influencers. With her social media presence, Toke has written a book, built a fashion brand that designs bags, makeup, and more.
M
ercy Eke’s road to stardom and prominence kicked off when she emerged winner of the reality TV show Big brother Naija Pepper Dem Gang. She was the first female winner to emerge since the show kicked off many years ago. Since leaving the house, Mercy has become the toast of many blogs and tabloids, and her social media pages have become a mini temple for millions of her fans who adore her.
M
r Jollof is a comedian and social media activist. He is the crooner of “Them go hear word”, “Everywhere Stew”, and “Doings”, which has become a known slogan across continents on the social media space. He chose the name Mr Jollof because it is a known fact that everyone loves Jollof rice, and since his sole career’s objective is to make people happy, the name was just appropriate. Jollof, a graduate of Political Science, has gained popularity on social media with his comical ways of criticizing the government and many other social issues.
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COVER
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
COVER
CONTROVERSY COURTERS
J
retty Mike is an entertainer, social-media influencer, and coowner of Club Uno who likes to spark controversy. He is known as the king of stunts, and loves to flaunt his wealth on social media. Pretty Mike came into the social media limelight when a picture of the socialite went viral with him holding two females on a dog leash. Despite the backlash which subsequently led to his arrest, Pretty Mike continues to spark controversy on social media by attending parties with outrageous themes, like sitting on a ‘throne’ and being carried by eight men in loincloths. Such stunts which keeps his over 400,000 followers constantly entertained.
DISPLAYING EMPTY DESIGNER BOXES AND BAGS ON THE GRAM
O
binna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, earlier this year, took over the Nigerian social media space with everyone talking about his mother’s burial ceremony, which happened at Oba in Anambra State. The burial ceremony was arguable one of the most ostentatious events Nigerians have seen in a very long time. Social media was agog for the show of wealth during the five days celebration, with many celebrities and social media influencers in attendance. Over 200 cows were gifted to the businessman to slaughter for the celebrations, and this didn’t deter his friends from raising millions of Naira to support Obi in sending his mother home in grand style. One would have thought this show of affluence would have given the businessman negative backlash; still, instead, it only boosted his social media status and secured more followers.
SOME DISCOVERED TALENTS A few examples of people who have benefited from social media…
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umoke Orisaguna, the bread seller, was discovered after a picture of her taken with British/Nigeria artist Tinie Tempah for the cover of THISDAY STYLE went viral on Social media. People from all works of life rallied around to give the bread hawker a new lease on life. She is now a model and can be spotted in magazines, unveiling collections for notable designers around Africa.
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J
THE FAKE PERCEPTIONS
Every invention follows the same trajectory and Social Media isn’t any different. Once hooked, some live vicariously through it so it’s easy to ‘package’ yourself and portray a life of your dreams even if it’s as fake as a two dollar bill! Some go to extreme lengths to achiever their aim when it comes to this packaging. Want to be seen inside a private jet, want to launch your ‘new car’ or ‘designer bag’…it’s all about appearances and perceptions!
P
aruma is a controversial sex therapist on social media. She claims to be the most expensive sex therapist in Nigeria, selling local and natural sex enhancing herbal mixtures. Coming from Northern Nigeria, where discussing sex is taboo, Jaruama, via her social media pages, is changing the perception people have about women from the North and how they see themselves sexually.
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
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2 years ane Obiene is also one who has old benefitted from social media. Ignatius Obiene’s picture went viral on Twitter Asabor from when she marched out with one limb Delta state to join the EndSARS protesters in Abuja. and a technical She gained traction on Twitter for being college graduate was discovered via a brave hero. Nigerians, via social media, Facebook for building locally made raised over N7m to buy her a prosthetic drones. So impressed by the young leg and help make life easier living with talent, an engineering company based her disability. in Finland immediately employed the A good Samaritan who also came young talented graduate to join their across the brave lady’s picture on social team of engineers. Ignatius was given media gifted her a house of her own. Jane an all-expense paid trip and work permit can now boast of being a homeowner to Finland and is currently living out his and running a bakery where she earns a dreams to be a master of drones. daily living.
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ollywood actor and broadcaster Sadiq Baba also received aid from Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola when a picture and write-up of the ill veteran went viral after being diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Otedola took care of the veteran actor and broadcasters hospital bill till his death in March 2021. He has also given money to other old time veterans suffering from one ailment or the other.
Aesthetics are everything in the visual social media space. Some adopt a ‘fake it till you make it persona’ on social media by posting empty designer shopping boxes and bags they buy from sites like eBay, Poshmark and co to portray having a level of affluence they can ill afford. They do this to attract attention that will boost their ‘likes’ on social media. These designers paper bags are actually also advertised for sale for those who choose to tow the path of ‘illusion of grandeur’.
EDITING PICTURES TO GET UNATTAINABLE IMAGES
It’s not new to see picture-perfect photos on social media. People post heavily edited pictures of themselves, especially influencers who have large followers on social media platforms. This unattainable idea of perfection is one of the fake ways influencers and individuals attract more followers and likes on social media handles. Applications like Facetune, lighthouse, Prisma, Snapseed and more, can help attain these picture-perfect results…far from reality but who cares?
PAYING PRIVATE JET STAFF TO PICS ON A JET
We all know images and perceptions are exaggerated on social media. People or influencers have no problem staging and editing photos to make their lives look better than it really is. Posting pictures of shopping sprees, beautiful apartments and flying on private jets are some of the many ways these influencers fake their lifestyle on Social Media. It is now common practice to pay a private jet staff a fee to take pictures on jets to show off a luxetravel lifestyle without having to do any expensive private travel in itself. Also, photo studio owners are building studio sets like the interior of private jets for their clients to take pictures with, to give off the perception of living a high flying luxury lifestyle.
PASSING OFF USED CARS AS BRAND NEW
It’s now a norm for some Instagram users to pass off used cars as new to fake it for the gram. You ask how do they do this? Well, it’s simple, used cars auto dealers now offer their clients a little extra fee for nylon wrapping the interior of their cars to give off the perception of their cars being new.
RENTING CLOTHES TO TAKE PICTURES!
This is probably the oldest trick used by some social media influencers, and we can see why? Why buy an outfit when you can rent it for a fraction of the price and get good wear out of it. This also helps portray the affluent lifestyle on social media, and anyone who doesn’t know this can be mislead to believe the individual has a wardrobe fit for a queen or king. Sites like Rent The Runway and stylists can provide such services for a fraction of the cost of the outfit.
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
LANRE
A L O H S U L O
Lanre Olusola is acclaimed as Africa’s foremost Life Coach and Cognitive Behavioral Psychologist. He is the Chief Catalyst at the Olusola Lanre Coaching Academy (OLCA). He is a certified life coach with years of experience and expansive studies in the fields of Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Performance Improvement Management, Human Cognitive Behavioral Psychology, Meta Medicine, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and Matrix Reimprinting. in this interview, he speaks to Funke Babs-Kufeji about the growing social media trends and how its negatively and positively impacting us all as a people and global village.
What do you think of mental health in today’s society, particularly regarding the rise of technology and most especially social media? There has been an astronomical increase in the use of mobile phones, digital devices and technology in the last decade. Smart and cellphone use particularly have gone up to 81% in 2019 compared to 35% in 2011. Of all adult-aged cellphone users, those between 18 and 29 are most likely to have a mobile Internet service, studies show that approx 90% of this age group use smartphones and other social media platforms. Another 80% of people aged 30-49 and 64% of people aged 50-64 are on social media. Even one-third of adults over 65 use it, compared to just 10% in 2010. About 97% of teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 have at least one Social Media account. Since the release of smartphones and social media, mental health concerns have increased drastically among children and young adults. The number of adolescents who reported symptoms of major depression each year increased by 52% from 2005 to 2017. From 2009 to 2017, it grew by 63% in adults ages 18 to 25. Between 2012 and 2015, depression in boys increased by 21% and in girls by 50%. By 2015, 92% of teens and young adults owned a smartphone. Psychological distress monthly also grew 71% in young adults from 2008 to 2017. The rate of suicidal thoughts in young adults increased 47%, young girls increased 65% during this same period. Child suicide rates increased by up to 150% and self-harm by girls ages 10 to 14 nearly tripled. So as we see from this data, there’s a very close correlation between the increase in social media use, smartphone use, the increase in feelings of depression, mental illness and suicidal thoughts and suicide. Though correlation doesn’t always mean causation, researchers suggest that the increase in mental illness is in part connected to the increase in social media use among young people and it is quite clear from these statistics that the technology improvement and the ease of access to Social Media has influenced the increase in mental health cases across different ages and sexes. But Social media is a major part of our daily lives. Surely there must be more positive than negative effect on our lives regardless of the statistics given above? Though virtual interaction on social media doesn’t have the same psychological benefits as face-to-face contact, there are still many positive ways in which it can help you stay connected and support your
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Self-absorption and self centeredness has drastically increased because more people are consumed by taking selfies and putting out all their innermost thoughts on social media.
wellbeing. On the one hand, social media especially during this covid pandemic, has made positive impact and enabled many people; • communicate and stay up to date with loved ones around the world, find new friends and communities; network with other people who share similar interests or ambitions. • Increase sphere of influence and sense of feeling important. Join or promote worthwhile causes; raise awareness on important issues, increasing a sense of purpose. • Seek or offer emotional support during tough times. Find an outlet for creativity and self-expression. On the flip side, based on multiple studies, social media has increased the risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self harm and even suicidal thoughts. Social media has also created the following; • Inadequacy, dissatisfaction and insecurity about life or appearance when comparing self with others on social media. • Unhealthy urge to stay up to date with current trends. • FOMO - Fear of missing out. Many feel like others are having more fun, living a better and more flamboyant life. • Increase in loneliness and isolation as a result of high usage of Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram. • Depression, anxiety and stress rate have increased as a direct result of reduced physical interactions. Many people today prioritize social media interaction over in-person relationships, this increases the risk for heightening mood disorders. Self-absorption and self centeredness has drastically increased because more people are consumed by taking selfies and putting out all their innermost thoughts on social media.
How is one able to detect when social media is affecting their mental health? • When you feel like you can’t do without social media or it’s gotten to the stage of addiction. Even when you say to yourself I’m going to do without checking my social Media but you keep returning to it over and over again because you feel left out. • When social media is your number one go to and becomes your crutch, comfort, security and self esteem/worth booster. • When it begins to consume your time to the extent that you get distracted and can’t seem to focus on doing other things that are more important and beneficial to you. • When your sleep time is being cut short by the extended time you spend on social media. How long is too long to be on social media and what are the effects of spending too much time on it? While Social Media addiction is not yet recognized as a mental health disorder, there’s a growing body of research that’s pointing towards the likelihood of certain people being more vulnerable to problematic social media use than others. Research however states that more than two or three hours on your phone daily is too much, if that’s not your day job. The following behaviors determine whether you have a problem with social media; • It’s the first thing you check in the morning. • You take down a post if it doesn’t reach a certain amount of views, comments or likes. • You feel angry when nobody comments on your posts. • You overanalyze images of yourself before you post. • You can’t go to the bathroom without your phone. Do you think there is any solution to this growing issue of addiction to social media? There is a solution to all problems thus there is also a solution to social media addiction, such as; • Remove all social media apps which does not positively influence your state of well-being. • Turn off Notifications and only go to your phone when you want to. • Place your phone out of reach for a specific amount of time each day as you focus on the more important things. • Set your boundaries, limits and controls. • Engage someone else to manage your social media activities, let them change your password and only grant you access at the agreed time. Shalom. I am the Catalyst
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
Alero Adollo aleroadollo@yahoo.com
COVER
CAPSULES BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI
Seriously this world dey tire pesin ooooo, too many stories that touch, person go weak reach emotional bone I tell you. You ponder on love and life and the horrid things that husbands do to wives and vice versa, and even in relationships and “situationships” and ask yourself if blood runs through the veins of these lot. I remember a woman way back then who worked in the UK to put her husband through school (also in the UK) she hurriedly did a secretarial course and they then moved back home, fast forward to years later, he got a woman pregnant and told his wife to move out with her children as she was not up to par. Let’s not even go near husbands getting their sisters in law pregnant thereby bringing enmity amongst siblings. They say there is nothing new under the sun thus the “gbe omo oba, fun osun” thingy is also not new, but it hurts to the point that it squeezes life out of the victims, we must really stop doing this. I read somewhere recently that as bad as men are, they don’t give other people’s children to their wives and call them theirs, but wait a moment, if this was biologically possible, I am sure men will do it……..it is wrong sha, not passing judgement, but it is wrong. Why do we all, male and female have very little respect for one another up to the extent that we wound mortally, abuse repeatedly, when this relationship thing no be by force, why are we like this biko? Let us delve into the realm of materialism and watch as people treat the purportedly “have not” …… I kind of sit back and watch how it is easy for many to dance around people whose pockets are deep but once “world people” believe you don’t have much to offer, they treat you like a nobody, forgetting that the person you think a nobody today can be a somebody by your standard tomorrow, everyone created by the Almighty is somebody by the way. Money and the love of it has squeezed empathy and morality out of us in such a way that we have lost our true essence as human beings. We worship it and it’s attendants. Is the world a better place since we started worshipping money, I doubt that somehow. Another hysterical jagbajantis is the level of our hypocrisy, it so deep that we do not even know how far we have fallen, we are so quick to try in our uppity way to remove the speck in the eyes of a neighbour whilst the log in ours is blinding. We rationalise things that stretch into the realm of inanity, and pussyfoot around logic, we then thump our chests and pat our backs at the superiority of our knowledge. The reason why hypocrisy riles and rankles is because we do these things with clear eyes because of what we believe we stand to gain, we forget that destiny helpers are God instructed so no matter how much we “kiss ass” what will define our tomorrow may not be in the hands of those we mount on our backs and dance around with like idiotic scarecrows in the market square. We need to advice ourselves and get a life I beg, we will one day account for the lives we are living in the here and now and there will be no advocate to stand for us on that day. If our conscience is not seared and our hearts are not rock, how can we continue behaving like we have no soul and expect our souls to speak of our great exploits. One day, some day, we will come to the realisation that you truly get away with nothing and that there is seed time and harvest despite grace, you cannot plant tomato and reap potato and the belief that because there is grace, you can do whatever you like and nothing will happen is a slippery slope. We get away with nothing, trust me on that. Seed time and harvest is as certain as night and day.
with Koko Kalango
Jesus In Proverbs Some weeks ago, my followers to act with Jesus is wisdom friend Oyinkan and I had wisdom. He left us with personified. a conversation about this many instructions in the book. My takeaway was that Gospels, but the ultimate Proverbs teaches I dislike Proverbs for the same provision of that wisdom that wisdom is reasons many Christians is the Holy Spirit. The same more than just seem to love it: its convenient sagacity – it is the Spirit one-for-each-day-of-the“of wisdom and of reverence of and month layout, its bite-sized understanding, obedience to God. lessons and independent The Spirit of counsel and According to that verses, its common-sense measure, all of us of power, advice, its sometimes morally The Spirit of knowledge are foolish every ambiguous statements. and of the fear of the Lord” now and then. I love reading the Bible Isaiah 11:2 because it satisfies my that rested on Jesus now appetite for history whilst simultaneously dwells within us. showing the emotions, likes and dislikes Seeing as this is a series about the Bible, of God. Neither of those is a particularly now would be a good time to mention that strong theme in Proverbs. we need the Holy Spirit to understand the What is a strong theme amongst the Holy Scriptures. Take it from your favourite proverbs is wisdom. In fact, the message of Bible scholar (me!) who still struggles to the book can be summarised in this verse: see Jesus in certain books, or to pray, or “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get to submit to God’s will, despite having wisdom. knowledge. So whilst it’s good to read Though it cost all you have, get through the proverbs and learn from them, understanding.” Proverbs 4:7 what is even better is to do so under the Inspired by the Spirit of God, King guidance of the One who inspired Solomon Solomon warns that the costs of forsaking to write them. wisdom are high, ultimately ending in Wouldn’t you agree? death. “…now one greater than Solomon is here.” Can you think of anything else the Bible Matthew 12:42 tells us we will die without? Tarari Kalango I’ve got one – Jesus. Due to the absence of messianic SEE WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE - A BOOK prophecy or allusion, Proverbs is one OF TESTIMONIES book which really requires us to look at it Is God real? Does He intervene in the holistically in order to see Jesus. He can’t affairs of people? Does He answer prayers? be found in one single verse, but in all 915 Most of us have asked questions like these verses combined. at least once in our lives. I believe that we Jesus is wisdom personified. Proverbs would find answers to these questions in teaches that wisdom is more than just our testimony books: See What The Lord sagacity – it is the reverence of and Has Done - Amazing Stories of God at Work obedience to God. According to that Today. measure, all of us are foolish every now and We have put together three volumes of then. The Old Testament word most often twelve testimonies each, covering stories of used for fool refers to one who lacks morals healing, provision, divine intervention and or incorrectly applies knowledge. So, we are so much more. These books will also make foolish when we sin against God, or when great gifts and additions to our Christmas we fail to live out the knowledge we have of hampers. His truth. The books are available at Laterna On the other hand, Jesus was never Bookshop, Victoria Island, Lagos or they can foolish. He acknowledged God in all His be got directly from us at +234 814 182 9650. ways, and only acted as instructed by the Father. Like Solomon, Jesus taught the Jews COLOURS OF LIFE SHOW how to correctly apply their knowledge of For inspiring stories, conversations and God. He demonstrated what prophets like testimonies that build faith and offer Isaiah, Micah, and Jeremiah had tried to hope, tune in to our Colours of Life show. tell the people of Israel – devotion to God The Colours of Life show airs on DOVE is a state of the heart, not only of outward TV, DSTV channel 349. It is also available actions. And when His enemies attacked on you tube (colours of life TV). Follow Him for this, Jesus deftly sidestepped all us on Instagram (@coloursoflifeministry) their traps. That’s wisdom in action. for daily devotionals. Reach us: contact@ Moreover, Jesus also charged His coloursoflife.org
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL BY EFENA E. OTOBO
Disabled access, or the lack thereof, is a very important conversation in today’s socio-political climate. In other parts of the world, it is a trending topic amongst celebrities like the Paralympians at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, or amongst ordinary people trying to thrive in various stifling environments. This is a tale of one differently abled person navigating her way through one of the most limiting cities in the world, otherwise known as Lagos, Nigeria, and her quest to make it a better place for all the disabled people in her environs. On the 21st of April, 2014, a road traffic accident caused a spinal cord injury, leaving me paralysed from the waist down. After three and a half years away from the place where the accident happened, (Lagos), I returned, worried about my future and how I was going to figure out a life in this constraining place. My fears were completely valid because Lagos is what I like to call “The Land of Steps.” Technical architects, civil and structural engineers and interior designers currently do not consider the needs of mobilitychallenged people who have to struggle just to get into banks, bars, restaurants, friend’s houses, and even their own houses. These physically challenged people are forced to stay at home because they do not feel included in the architecture of the commercial and residential buildings they are trying to gain access to. Everything is a struggle. Nearly everywhere is limiting. That is why I decided to start a Foundation called Light at the End of the Tunnel (L.E.T.). I have a fighter’s spirit, perseverance, determination and willpower. I thought if I could just get my foot in the door and spread awareness of the difficulties disabled people have to go through in Lagos City, things could finally start to change for the better. The first port of call was to establish the Foundation, the second was to introduce and launch it, the third was to engage and work with the Lagos State Office of Disabilities Affairs and the fourth was to organise an international Conference with three other physically challenged persons who possessed the knowledge and experience to compare disabled access across continents. The inaugural L.E.T. Foundation Conference successfully took place in October 2020 and a second is being planned. The Light at the End of the Tunnel Foundation was birthed out of another mantra, “Always Keep Fighting,” started by the awesome Jared Padalecki, one of the stars of the TV show, Supernatural. He struggled with depression during the third season of the show and launched a campaign to remove the stigma of mental health. Being influenced by such an important message, I came up with my own slogan: “There is Always Light at the End of the Tunnel.” It is a reminder that no matter what you are going through in life, you should always fight to get to the other side. There will be light in the darkness. Being a disabled person in Nigeria is a very complex and problematic experience. I decided
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to work with different people to ensure that there is a significant change on the policymaking side of things. It is actually written in Lagos State law that commercial establishments should be wheelchair accessible and they have two years to make the necessary modifications as soon as they have been notified by the relevant authority. The main problem is because disability access is not a top priority of the Federal government, despite the fact that equality for all (I am paraphrasing here) is part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal No. 10, the Federal and State authorities in charge are currently ineffectual. Implementation and monitoring are virtually non-existent. Did you know that 25 per cent of the Nigerian population is disabled and 15 per cent of those living and breathing in the world are differently abled? Surely the fact that these people make up a sizeable proportion of our country should mean their rights are protected? That their voices should be heard and they should be considered in the urban and town planning of a city? Back to the issue at hand. The Foundation was created with four main goals in mind: • The first is to spread awareness of spinal cord injuries and other disabilities. • The second is to influence disability policies in Lagos State, and eventually, Nigeria. • The third is to mobilise donations to cover living and medical expenses for those that are differently abled. • The last, but certainly not the least, is to start a scholarship fund for disabled children in Lagos. They are indeed noble goals but one question remains – how do I go about achieving them? Firstly, collaborations with the ‘right’ people are the way forward because I cannot fight this battle alone. Working hard and putting my all into the Foundation is the second thing I must do. Third is simply to believe in myself and my capabilities. It is going to be a long, hard road because there are obstacles at every turn. It is going to be an uphill battle, fraught with dark twists. People are apathetic because it does not concern them directly. There are many little hills to die on but the show must go on. In conclusion, the right to be treated as an equal in the eyes of the Federal and State governments in Nigeria is something that we need to work on. We need to band together and ensure that we give voices to the voiceless. Awareness must be raised through hosting as many hybrid Webinars and Conferences as possible to ensure that we bring this salient issue to the fore front. Inclusivity must become a top priority. Exclusion must become something of the past. We will conquer this beast of restriction and lift up those that are physically challenged. Let us start today and become forerunners in this race. As I always say, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
STYLE & DESIGN
Match THE
Faces
Stress, food sensitivities, your period and other hormonal factors aren’t the only reasons you might be breaking out. And while it may seem that your acne just showed up randomly one day and started causing trouble, there may actually be a link between your everyday habits and sudden or persistent pimples. Here are some surprising but common, adult acne causes.
S T I B A H E B T H G I M T A TH OUR BY FUNKE BABS KUFEJI
ERICA NGOZI NLEWEDIM
Y G N I S CAU UTS
ASOGWA ALEXANDRA
O K A E BR
DORATHY BACHOR
Using The Wrong Product For Your Skin Type
If you start breaking out after using a new product, it may not be the right one for your skin type. Check with your dermatologist about finding an alternative and make sure you ask him or her how to identify what your skin type is. Just because something works well for your best friend doesn’t mean it will work for you. You might have different skin types.
Not Washing Your Face After Working Out
Letting sweat sit on your face after you work out, is likely to lead to breakouts. Make sure to clean your face ASAP after you exercise, even if you can’t shower right away.
Wearing Your Hair In Your Face
MERCY EKE
REBECCA NENGI HAMPSON TACHA
CYNTHIA NWADIORA
When your hair is constantly falling in your face, the grease and sweat that accumulates in your hair is making its way to your face as well, which can very easily cause acne. If you’re sweating a lot or even if you haven’t washed your hair in a few days, it’s best to pull it back to keep that grease and sweat away from your face.
Not Washing Your Pillowcase Frequently
Every night when you go to sleep, the bacteria from your face is transferred to your pillowcase. This happens night after night and can certainly cause you to break out. If you’re washing your face thoroughly before bed, that will surely help, but nothing will do the trick better than washing your pillowcase
on a regular basis.”
Forgetting To Moisturize
It’s true that oily skin is more prone to breakouts, however, contrary to what many people believe, those with dry skin can suffer from acne as well. Acne is caused when your pores become clogged. Usually, this is from oil, but it can also be from dirt, bacteria or dead skin cells. Many acne products also tend to dry out your skin so keeping it moisturized is extremely important if you’re using any kind of acne treatments.
Not Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes
Using makeup brushes that aren’t cleaned regularly is a very common cause of acne. These brushes collect dirt, bacteria, old makeup, oil and more and if you don’t clean them regularly, you’re just putting all of that right back onto your face each morning. Dirt, bacteria and oil are a recipe for disaster when it comes to your skin so make sure to keep those makeup brushes clean!
Talking on Your Cell
These days, we’re on our cell phones 24/7. We touch them with dirty hands and then put them up against our faces when we’re chatting away. This transfers any dirt and bacteria that has accumulated on your phone right onto your face, which can lead to breakouts and acne. Make sure you are cleaning your phone on a regular basis. Not only will this keep you from getting sick and make you healthier all around, it will also help with breakouts.
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
BEAUTY Fur Bath Drops
Naturopathic a Lavender Blossom Bath & Body Oil
If lavender is your thing, this bath oil will delight you. It uses lavender flower oil, as well as lavandin flower oil (which is a hybrid form of lavender) to create a relaxing and aromatic oil that you can add to bath water or massage directly onto your skin. However, you choose to use it, the brand promises it will relax your mind and your muscles, all thanks to rosemary leaf oil, which contains a compound that stimulates blood flow in order to warm muscle tissue.
Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil
Add a capful of this oil to your bath water for a deeply relaxing experience. It combines vetivert, chamomile, and sandalwood to promote a night of restful sleep and provide an instant calming effect.
Province Apothecary Radiant Bath & Body Oil
Ren Clean Skincare Atlantic Kelp and Microalgae AntiFatigue Bath Oil
The star ingredients in this bath and body oil are organic argan kernel oil, black cumin seed oil, and avocado oil. Let’s start from the top. Organic argan kernel oil is rich in vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Black cumin seed oil soothes and moisturizes with a blend of vitamins and minerals. Avocado oil, while also rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, fights dryness and dehydration with omega-3 fatty acids.
This product is unique in that it combines moisturizing oils like rosemary leaf oil, geranium oil, and sunflower seed oil with Atlantic kelp and microalgae. It’s like they bottled up a refreshing ocean swim and infused it into a bath oil.
Espa Positivity Bath & Body Oil
Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Bath Oil
If you’re a fan of Jo Malone’s fragrances, you’ll surely love the brand’s sweetsmelling bath oils, too. We are partial to English Pear & Freesia. It’s somehow fresh, fruity, and floral all at once and never fails to make my bathroom feel like a bucolic spa in the English countryside.
Dr Teal’s Eucalyptus & Spearmint Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil Budget-friendly bath oils are out there, and if you know which ones to choose, they will make your bath feel just as
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9628 Sunday, September 19, 2021
luxurious as products that cost triple the price. Take this Dr Teal’s pick, for instance. It contains a blend of eucalyptus and spearmint essential oils, as well as jojoba, sweet almond, and grape-seed oil. The best part? It’s only N3,000.
These bath drops contain the brand’s signature Fur oil. They dissolve when they hit the water, imbuing your bath with softening oils. They contain good-for-skin ingredients like calming clary sage oil, moisturizing jojoba oil, and vitamin-rich grapeseed oil.
This bath oil is meant to nourish both your skin and your mind with moisturizing and fragrant ingredients like jasmine, gardenia, and rose geranium essential oils. Bergamot and sweet orange are also included for an extra uplifting effect. If you count on the powers of aromatherapy to relax and unwind, this spa-quality bath oil is for you.
STYLE & DESIGN
Bath Oils That Will Make Your Skin Feel Just Plain Rich We are convinced there’s an art to bathing. Sure, you can run the water, step in the tub, spend a few minutes soaking, and leave it at that, but that’s like going to a five-star restaurant and ordering a cup of soup. It’s just scratching the surface. In order to truly elevate the experience and transform it from a standard soak to something more spa-like, you need the right line up of products. Bath oils aren’t as visually stimulating as bath bombs, nor are they as nostalgia-inducing as bubbles, but they never fail to make your skin feel soft, smooth, and moisturized, and that’s what it’s all about. STYLE has compiled 12 luxurious bath oils that will make your skin feel just plain rich BY USIADE ISIOMA
Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Bath & Body Oil These bath drops contain the brand’s signature fur oil. They dissolve when they hit the water, imbuing your bath with softening oils. They contain goodfor-skin ingredients like calming clary sage oil, moisturizing jojoba oil, and vitamin-rich grapeseed oil.
Ahava Bath & Shower Oil This bath oil is perfect for anyone who has red, sensitive skin but really, the brand says it’s gentle enough for newborns. It’s rich in antioxidants and nourishing and balancing oils like castor oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil.
Seven Seven Cosmetics Bath Oil
Another simple yet chic bath oil, this one contains safflower, sunflower, grape-seed, apricot kernel, and eucalyptus oil for supremely soft and smooth skin.
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