Allure 05 July 2015 by Vanguard Media Limited

July 5, 2015

VIMBAI MUTIHIRI

EKENG BASSEY

SIKA OSEI

OZZY AGU

TV Presenters Living Their Dreams

CON

T S N E T e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

JULY 5 JULY 11, 2015

COVER

TV PRESENTERS LIVING THEIR DREAM

7-11

FASHION

• Taking The Plunge

FEATURES

• SideTalk And Catwalks

TEAM EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos. For advertisement / enquiries, call DEBBIE: 08039675880, OGE: 08039777910 Office Auxiliary: EBERE OKOH CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: AHAM IBELEME STYLIST: ANNITA AZUBIKE FOR @SOUPOFFICIAL ALL OUTFITS FOR FEMALE PRESENTERS BY TRISH O’ COUTURE, RED BLAZER BY KING HAKBAL HAIR : AKIN FOR TJ HAIR MAKEUP: EVELYN & OLUCHI ONUIGBO FOR ZARON COSMETICS BAGS BY DOT LOCATION: MAISON FAHRENHEIT HOTEL, VI, LAGOS

PEOPLE

• At The Traditional Marriage Of Olowo’s Son

From the editor... When in 1963, American civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his now most famous speech, “I have a dream” in which he called for an end to racism in the United States, for many, his dream of freedom and equality for all, seemed like a mirage. But he saw beyond the limitations of his physical environment. Today, that dream has become a reality. Men and women carry in them dreams; while some are able to birth their dreams, others live letting their dreams die. On our cover today are four young Nigerians, Ekeng Bassey, Sika Osei, Ozzy Agu, Vimbai Mutihiri who dreamt of working in front of the camera. Against all odds, their dreams carried from childhood, have come to pass for them. Now living their dreams as TV presenters, they inspire other young Nigerians across the African continent not just to dream but to see their dreams come true. They spoke with Yemisi Suleiman, pg 7-11.

QUOTES... “If equal affection cannot be, Let the more loving one be me.”

- W.H. Auden

“No matter how much you love someone, you still want to have you own way.” - Chuck Palahniuk

“Y ou can’t truly hate someone until you’ve cared about them. Until you’ve loved them.” - Kirsten Hubbard

On our fashion pages, the knotty problem about knowing how much to bare is addressed with Pamela Echemunor who shows different ways to wear plunging neckline without looking indecent, pg 4. she also shows different ways to make sheer a delight to wear. pg 5. And on Side Talk & Catwalks, our contributor, Latasha Ngwube who was in NewYork for Independent Handbag Designers Awards, reports on the event and the bags that are currently making the buzz. Once again, this edition will make your Sunday an enjoyable one. Have a great time!

Jemi Ekunkunbor Acting Editor @ Vanguardallure1

FA S H I ON

ALLURE’S

WEEKLY FAB LIST!!! By - Fatima Garba

Looking for the latest trends to transition into? Hopefully our weekly fab list will help you decide the major trends to keep you looking fab all day and all week.

WHITE DENIM JEANS When things heat up, it’s time to lighten up. Swap your blues for a perfect pair of white jeans. Plus, white has been creeping its way onto all of the major runways for a few seasons now so it is time to get on board. That said, the easiest way to embrace white is with denim

River Island stripe high waisted shorts

HIGH-WAISTED SHORTS TREND

Topshop red lace high waisted shorts

Long before Beyonce and Taylor Swift were showing off their proverbial assets in high-waisted shorts, style icons, like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, were taking the sought-after summer staple out for a spin.This season, high-waisted short is a casual chic option for a weekend full of sailing or an evening dancing with friends.

Chanel Magenta crossbody wallet purse

Cassie in Jbrand white denim jeans trend

MAGENTA TREND Magenta is in the red-pink scheme. Designers have used this colour on most of their collection this season.This trend is a must-have.

SHEATH DRESS

Christian Louboutin Magenta heels

The Sheath Dress is one great classic dress styles, that yearly gets a new spin by fashion designers.The sheath dresses’ versatility has earned its place on the top ten list of fashions that truly defy “the hands of time”.... Although each year designer’s change it up a bit, the classic design of the sheath dress always shines through.

PAISLEY PRINT TREND Paisley will be infused into so many great fashions items this season. Some designers have added a bit of Bollywood glam by infusing fun bright paisley into otherwise, boring fashions. Consider adding a bit of paisley into your wardrobe. Paisley print this season will not only be used to create some fabulous dresses, but you will also find some wonderful Paisley prints all done up in jeans, blouses, handbags, shoes, and more. Paisley prints fashions are surprisingly versatile.

Jbrand white denim skinny jeans

Sugarhill paisley top

Ted Baker paisley skirt

Alexander McQueen kimono belt sheath dress

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FA S H IO N

Taking the Plunge by - Pamela Echemunor

Plunging peek-a-boo

Working the deep V-neck look can be very challenging. Most times, one fails to pull off this look especially if it doesn’t match your silhouette. The deep V trend comes in various forms and proportions and it’s a look made for the brave. Here are a few ways to take a plunge.

The fact is, plunging is a very risqué trend to take on. One might turn out looking either too sexually aggressive or just downright trashy. One of the ways to plunge, is to use it as a peek-a-boo. You could do a simple V-neck design in front that measures about 3 inches at your chest region. Try not to expose too much cleavage, except you are the bold daring kind.

Dare to Bare So you want to be adventurous? Make your plunge a little less provocative by adding a see-through material to cover up the bared region. This way, you can plunge up to the top of your navel without being too exposed.

Halter V Another great way to plunge is by doing it the halter way. The halter V is perfect for summer and is a very sassy trend.

plunged wrap dress Suit up

Tired of dresses? Why not wear a nice two buttoned blazer with dark lapel detail? The trick to pulling off a great plunge with this, is to do without any inner wear, it’s sophistication with a touch of sexiness.

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Thanks to Diane Von Furstenberg, the wrap dress has become a fashion phenomenon. The best part of the wrap dress, is that it fits all physiques. Take a plunge in a vintage wrap dress today.

FA SHION

Mix with solid Mix your sheer with solid items, whether you add a solid hued accessory or you wear solid on top sheer or under it.

Make sheer an overlay Another fabulous way to wear sheer is by combining it with other fabrics, you can do this by either making it an overlay or by adding it to the sleeves of an outfit or even using it as a peeka-boo or cut out.

Rupert Sanderson nude shoE

GOLD BELT

THE SHEER FACTOR By Pamela Echemunor The sheer trend recently made its way back into fashion by conquering runways and red carpet events across the globe. It has adorned the physical perfection of Hollywood stars such as Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian

and Beyoncee Knowles. Although some may consider sheer a bit vulgar to wear, there are ways to tone it down a notch without looking too sexually arousing to the eyes. Here are a few ways to do sheer on and off the red carpet.

Play with hues Black spagetti inner wear

Always wear visible inner To avoid wondering eyes, you could embrace the singlet of a dark hued underwear. This works best especially during the day, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing worse than exposing too much cleavage through an outfit.

When it comes to sheer, most people prefer hues close to their natural skin colour. But you can do other hues like white, pink etc just like Toke Makinwa in this pink sheer top. These colours are less likely to cause a stir.

Print and Patterns Wearing print and patterned sheer is another tricky way to rock the sheer trend. Be it animal print or any pattern you choose, this will not only look chic, but very catchy too.

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FA S H IO N

NIKKI KHIRAN’S SPRING/SUMMER 2015 By Yemisi Suleiman Foremost Nigerian designer, Nikki Khiran, recently, launched her new collection aptly tagged; ‘Resort Collection, Spring/ Summer 2015’, to a selected audience in Abuja. Inspired by the need to create a wardrobe of unique designs for a woman who is a global traveler, the collection is made up of jersey, silk chiffon, beaded tulle and distressed knits; fabrics that are multifunctional, comfortable, beautiful, yet easy to pack for traveling. For Nikki, the collection depicts the exotic, free-spirited, sexy, yet lady-like, individualistic and confident woman who could walk on the beach in her tube dress, do lunch in her draped caftan, sundowners in her catsuit, and go with a one shoulder toga or gladiator fringed dress for her gala night or dinner!

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REPORTAGE

EKENG

SIKA

OZZY

VIMBAI

Tv Presenters Living Their Dreams By Yemisi Suleiman

keng Bassey, Vimbai Mutihiri, Ozzy Agu and Sika Osei are young presenters currently making their mark in theÂ entertainment industry in Africa. With an infectious amount of energy they infuse in the shows they present, these vibrant presenters have all it takes to make a crowd happy and react to whatever they say. Now living their dreams and impacting society, they each share their story on the journey to fame. July 5, 2015 /

REPORTAGE

Life Is My Passion

What advice would you give to other budding presenters? Study the greats then break all their rules and what you have left will be your own unique style. Keep that. What is your greatest fear in life? Wasted talent.

What was your big breakthrough? Working on television is a boost, for sure. My TV origins were on the show, Tinsel, where I played the character Omar Babayaro. When I revealed that it was Philip Ade-Williams who shot his father on the soap, people were very angry with me in real life. I remember buying groceries and the cashier was very terse with me. Confronting me, she asked, “Why did you report Phillip, eh? He didn’t kill Fred Ade-Williams!” Not wanting a fight, I calmly told her, “Madam, I was just reporting what I saw.” And, I ran out as fast I could. But since then, I have been doing more hosting and presenting. Working on 53 Extra has been a boon as it has challenged me in new ways and forced me to grow as an artiste. It’s a lot of hard work and irregular hours but I never feel like I’m a big breakthrough or that I have ‘’arrived”. My deepest joy comes from doing the job. What has been your biggest challenge so far? Living in Nigeria. It is always the lack of infrastructure and such. There are so many bright ideas that die with power outages. So, the biggest challenge is keeping dreams alive. There are days when you accomplish nothing but finding new shortcuts in your battle with traffic. The resulting feeling is one of abject hopelessness as production schedules are thrown out of sync, clients are frustrated, and vendors still demand payment. But with prayer, it becomes clear that tomorrow is another day. Besides, ‘change’ is here.

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The biggest lesson you have ever learned? Like Femi Kuti said, “Believe in yourself and hold on to the truth. No matter how bitter it is.”

- SIKA OSEI

zzy Agu is a TV host and presenter on Africa Magic who is also impacting the movie world. With a transient job at Ebony Life TV, Ozzy currently plays a supporting lead role in the TV series, ‘Desperate Housewives’. The graduate of Business Administration from Mercer University, Georgia, also has a certificate in Drama from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, New York.

What were the first few steps you took? Well, after the dust settled, I auditioned at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and was accepted. Support was slow but it was a start. A big milestone was when my entire family came for my graduation play series and they got to see me for the first time in a play as multiple characters and the conversation changed to: “Maybe, this olodo boy can do this thing o!” I did more theatre in New York City to keep learning on the job. I also sought out other artistes and masters I admired and tried to create work with them and learn. When I came home, I did my NYSC at Royal Arts Academy, Surulere, as a drama teacher to share the tools I had learned abroad. There, I met more people in the industry and was ultimately cast in a movie. That’s how it all started.

What are your future aspirations? My dream is to partner with artistes and visionaries to produce quality content for film and TV.

Standing Out Is Key To Breakthrough

- OZZY AGU

You read Business Administration. What motivated and inspired you to start a career in the entertainment industry? Business Administration is the wisdom of my parents, to be honest. As a kid, all I knew was that I liked watching movies and imagining myself in them. Or, reading super-hero comics and then drop-kicking my brother because I thought I was Batman. But it was all child’s play. At the university, I tried every major but that just fed my appetite for learning new things. I had imagined myself as a global economist or a lawyer and my parents would be so happy. And, then I’d take up Modern Art classes and they would frown. It must have been frustrating but with their guidance, I found a happy medium with Business Administration. Every enterprise has a business side. It was after business school, when I started to see plays and ingest more arts and culture, that I decided that this life is too short. My biggest fear at the time was offending my parents because this is no longer child’s play. It’s a career. But I had to do it.

What is your passion? What drives you? Life is my passion; the living of it; culling joy from the smallest of things; the good, the bad, the ugly; all of it. As long as I am living and life is not just passing me by, I get a boost out of it. That is why I am drawn to human stories.

ika Osei is the new face and co-presenter of Studio 53 Extra, the fashion and lifestyle programme on Africa Magic. With a bubbly personality, the Ghanaian star brings to the show, elements that keep you glued to your TV set while she’s on.

S • OZZY AGU How do you overcome challenges? Prayer. A lot of Prayer. What do you love most about your job? As a presenter, I love that I get to meet and interview all kinds of people. I always try to learn something new from the diversity of experience I find on the job. I was interviewing Femi Kuti recently and he told me that no matter who you are, people will try to bring you down some day. For him, it was when he lost his father and people almost drove a wedge into his relationship with his brother Seun. I listened. He advised me to always believe in myself and to hold on to the truth, no matter how bitter it is. How do you stay motivated through difficult times? As the saying goes, the only thing that is constant is change. So, no matter how difficult the path I’m walking is, I know that it cannot last forever. This too shall pass. However, a trick I have discovered in making the bad season pass quicker is to call on family and close friends. That kind of support is the most potent antidote. Tell us about your growing up years, where you were born and family life generally? I was born in Texas. I grew up in Port Harcourt, where I attended Beretton Primary and Montessori School. I had just completed my first year of junior secondary school at Igbinedion University, Edo State, when my parents were transferred to Abuja so I had to change schools. I was very upset about that because I used to travel by road but I was proud that I could do it by myself. Abuja was different. I started at Christ the King College, Gwagwalada. My senior secondary school was at El-Amin International School, Minna, Niger State, where I was elected social prefect. I hosted social nights and choreographed talent shows. You used to live in the UK. At what point did you leave Nigeria and why? I lived in the UK when I was studying British Museums and Painters at the American Intercontinental University, Marylebone High Street as part of a ‘study abroad’ programme through Mercer University. Study Abroad was becoming very popular, at the time, and since Art and travel have always been my greatest weakness, it was a perfect match. I left Nigeria after graduating from El-Amin to pursue my studies. How have you found life in Lagos on your return? And what has moving back been like on lifestyle basis? Lagos is an unforgiving mistress. She is tough, brutal, and aggressive but she does have her charms. Like any metropolis, you can find anything you are looking for. So, Lagos depends on the seeker.

How did you get on board Studio 53 Extra? I flew in from Ghana to Lagos for the audition in 2013. A few months later, I got a call from the producing company and Africa Magic that I was chosen to be the next co-host on 53 Extra. I remember asking the lady if this was a prank or for real. She kept laughing at my genuine surprise. When she finally convinced me that it was for real, I almost passed out with joy! It was a great day! What is it like being a presenter of 53 Extra? Has it impacted your life in anyway? I believe that one of the main reasons why I even have this privilege of being on Allure magazine today and other platforms, is because of 53 Extra and the amazing opportunity that it offers. In under 2 years, it has not only taught me a lot about presenting and also what it takes to put together a good production, it has also given me a solid foundation to build the ‘Sika Osei’ brand for which I am very grateful. Before 53 Extra, what were you doing? Well, I was in Law School in Ghana studying to get my LL.B (Bachelor of Law) degree whilst simultaneously presenting a show on local terrestrial television. Your bio says you grew up in Lesotho, America and India. How did the cultures impact your life? Each country came with its own experiences. It was a period of constant movement from one country to another, which meant that I made and lost friends very easily. However, it was a great learning experience. It broadened my mind and world view. The many cultures have given me great adaptive skills useful for wherever I find myself. I have become a citizen of the world because of that. Tell us about your educational background and what informed your choice of career? Well, being a diplomat’s kid, I had the privilege of attending various diplomatic schools in every country that we lived in, which gave me access to top notch education. I have done both O’ Levels and A’ Levels as well as the International Baccalaureate and all these took a holistic approach to education; so, not only was it academic but it exposed me to

extracurricular activities as well as the Arts such as Drama, Music and Drawing. I gained my love of entertainment and performance from this exposure so it’s no surprise I finally chose this career in the long run. What was your big breakthrough? 53Extra without a doubt! What has been your biggest challenge so far? It would probably be finding myself and understanding my unique selling points and what I bring to the table in this huge industry as a presenter and actress. That could be daunting. The desire to fit in quickly puts a lot of pressure (on one) to toe the line, to try to be like everyone else. However, that could also be your downfall. I believe standing out is key to eventual break through. What do you love most about your job? Not to sound sappy or cheesy, I truly love that I have found a job that doesn’t feel like a job but is truly an extension of me and through it, I am getting to inspire other young girls and boys to also follow their passion. I love getting to meet all the people that we interview and the network I continue to build as a result. It is really awesome that I get to share my gift and live my destiny every day. What does style mean to you? Style means freedom and confidence to be who you are through your clothes. So, in effect, style must be comfortable and uniquely you. Being in the public eye, does your new job put some sort of pressure on your wardrobe? Oh yes, it does. I guess, it’s a blessing that we have stylists and designers who graciously allow us to wear their clothes and look beautiful on the red carpet, at events etc. Thanks to them all. But in general, there is a higher expectation of you to be a “fashionista” of some sort just because you are a public personality, which not all of us are. So, for me, it’s important to always try and look presentable and classy and not succumb to the pressure.

• SIKA OSEI July 5, 2015 /

REPORTAGE

Life Is My Passion

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The biggest lesson you have ever learned? Like Femi Kuti said, “Believe in yourself and hold on to the truth. No matter how bitter it is.”

- SIKA OSEI

What are your future aspirations? My dream is to partner with artistes and visionaries to produce quality content for film and TV.

Standing Out Is Key To Breakthrough

- OZZY AGU

• SIKA OSEI July 5, 2015 /

REPORTAGE Do you have a favourite Nigerian food? Does jollof rice and fried plantain count? What attracts you to the opposite sex? What is your idea of a great guy? Humour, confidence and the fear of God. A man who truly fears God is one that also knows how to truly love. A guy who makes me laugh and brings out the child in me wins my heart very fast. He must be someone

REPORTAGE who doesn’t take himself too seriously but has enough confidence to earn his respect wherever he finds himself. Should we expect wedding bells soon? By faith, I will say yes. I am waiting for Mr. Right to find his way to me. I will keep you posted. What advice would you give to other budding

presenters? It is simple! If presenting is truly your calling and passion, then be a presenter. This means first, find out who you are and just be that so that the audience watching can connect with you on a really genuine level. This is one of the biggest advice that I was given when I went for my Hosting course in Los Angeles last year, which completely changed my approach to presenting.

I Learnt To Be Independent From A Young Age - VIMBAI MUTIHIRI imbabwean actress and TV personality, Vimbai Mutihiri, shot to fame in 2011 with her antics at the Big Brother Africa Amplified’2011. She has gone on to host major African events and is, perhaps, best known for her apt presentation skills as co-host of the annual Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA). She studied in South Africa, graduating from the University of Cape Town with an honours degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics.

From BBA Amplified to TV presenter and host of AMVCA, what has the evolution been like for you? It has been such a phenomenal journey. I always dreamed about doing the things I am doing today but genuinely never expected them. I went into BBA to expose my personality to opportunities in the entertainment industry. I am so grateful for the people and organisations that took notice of me, and believed in my potential enough to give me a lucky break. The evolution has been very organic. I have grown steadily and systematically as a person. I have paid my dues and learnt many lessons along the way. I am still learning and still evolving but I have certainly come a long way from being the quirky, eccentric young girl on BBA. What were you doing before you went in for Big Brother? Before BBA, I was working as a model in South Africa and had recently moved back to my home country, Zimbabwe, to pursue a job in my area of expertise. I graduated with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. Times were tough in my country, so it was a very difficult period of my life. Tell us about your educational background and what informed your choice of career as a teenager? I started school at the International School in Belgrade, former Yugoslavia, and then went on to high school at St. Edwards School in Oxford, UK. I then rounded off at Arundel School and Peterhouse Girls School in Zimbabwe, respectively. I come from a very political family and wanted to be a force of change from a very young age. So I knew that me and my strong will and headstrong mind, belonged in the political arena. I am still highly passionate about politics but I believe that my purpose is to inspire people in a different way.

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What motivated and inspired you to start your career in the entertainment industry? I always wanted to be in entertainment. From the day I watched Ashwariya Rai win Miss World in 1994, I knew I wanted to be a part of the world of entertainment. I loved Janet Jackson. My parents would buy me her cassettes and I would create my own routines to perform at school. My parents encouraged my creativity so my love for entertainment grew quickly. Watching the likes of Whitney Houston, Naomi Campbell and Oprah inspired me hugely. I wanted to be amongst them.

What were the first few steps you took? My very first steps towards getting into entertainment were at the tender age of 5, when I begged my parents for music lessons. I terrorized the house for many years after that with my singing, dancing and piano playing. But that was definitely the birth of the dream. I learnt how to perform for audiences – it became an innate part of me. Guests at our home used to be treated to performances by myself and my brother whenever they arrived our home. You hosted the 1st and 2nd edition of the AMVCA along with IK. That sort of makes you an official host for the AMVCA. How does that make you feel? I absolutely love the AMVCAs and everything they stand for! It is an absolute honour to be a part of such a phenomenal platform that uplifts and empowers an entire industry. Being given multiple chances to grace the stage of such a monumental event is a major blessing to me. I am so grateful to Africa Magic for the opportunity. Tell us about life as a Zimbabwean and fond memories of your growing up years. Life as a Zimbabwean is akin to life as any African child. Our strong values and disciplinarian background are all similar. Mine were even more so because my father is a military man – so it was rules and order all the way. I spent my childhood travelling across Europe and that was wonderful. I gained priceless exposure from a tender age. Growing up was epic. What was your big breakthrough? Big Brother was my major breakthrough because it opened me up to all the subsequent blessings that followed! What has been your biggest challenge so far? And how do you overcome challenges? My biggest challenge has always been being away from home and my family so early in life and for so long. I have been in a different country from my family since I was 17 and that has some very tough moments. I just had to learn how to be highly independent and self sufficient from a young age. What do you love most about your job? I love working with so many different people from so many walks of life who are all united by their unique talents. They are called celebrities but I am so intrigued

by people who have harnessed their craft to the point of being adored by the world. That is so powerful!! What does style mean to you? Style is self expression; it is a statement of individual and silent communication. It is a message to the world about who I am and how I want you to address me.

I love Nigeria and Nigerians. I feel like Nigerians are somehow my long lost relatives. I fit in so well. I adore the culture; the food and music are fantastic. Call me Ayomide Darling. Do you have a favourite Nigerian food? I am currently going through a love affair with ofada rice.

Being in the public eye, does that put some sort of pressure on your wardrobe? I think that you should pay attention to your wardrobe whether or not you are in the public eye. It is a form of respecting yourself and those around you. So, no added pressure! It’s life.

There is this story that you like Nigerian men. What’s the catch for Nigerian men? Journalists and their headlines! Hahahaha. Like any woman, I have a weakness for tall, dark and handsome brothers and Nigeria has them in abundance.

You have been in Nigeria for some time now. What’s your impression about Nigeria and Nigerians?

Should we expect wedding bells soon? Possibly…

What advice would you give to other budding presenters? Stay true to yourself! Make-up artists are magicians. Stylists are like fairy god mothers. Layers of Brazilian weave-on can make anyone look like a star and publicists can make you famous. My advice is: work on the person you are without all these things. You will stand out from the crowd and go so much further. What is your greatest fear in life? My biggest fear in life: that aliens are real! (laughs) What is the best lesson you have ever learned from life? The biggest lesson I have learned is that what God has for me is mine, no one else’s.

I Am Living My Dream - EKENG BASSEY e is a tall with an impressive personality. He started out as an aspiring musical artiste. For Ekeng Bassey, it was a long road to fame, having taken part in musical reality shows from Glo Naija Sings to Nigeria’s Got Talent with no success. However, that platform became a stepping stone to realising his dreams when he later got hired as a presenter on Ebony Life TV. The graduate of Mass Communication from the Covenant University tells his story.

You participated in several musical talent shows before hitting it with Ebony TV. What has the experience been like for you? It has been phenomenal. I have come to believe that life is in stages. I have passed the test for each stage and here I am today-a TV personality! The evolution wasn’t easy, especially when my followers and friends knew me from the reality shows as a singer. For them to see me now as an anchor, sometimes seem strange. But it is an evolution. I am proud of it. How did you get the Ebony job? And what has the experience been like so far? I auditioned for it. I had just been evicted from Nigeria’s Got Talent Season One when a lady friend of mine said to me, “You have been round these mountains for too long. You need to consider TV”. She told me of the closed auditions of EbonyLife TV in search of presenters. I went for the audition but the feedback was negative. Then, I went in for the drama audition for their soap opera, The Governor, which they haven’t commenced even as we speak. Mo and her panel said they would get back to me. They did but, this time, they were offering me a job as a TV presenter! Believe me I can’t trade my experience on ELTV for anything in the world. I have learnt so much about the media. So, would you say you are living your dream now? I can say that I am living my dream. There may be more things I will love to do with my life but anchoring a daily show on TV, has been one dream come true. When did you discover your love for music and how far do you hope to take your career in music? I’ve always liked music since I was a little boy. It was what I grew up with. I could practically sing every Disney song; from Little Mermaid to Beauty and the Beast. Not to talk of Kiddies Praise. Then Maranatha

praise singers. Though being on TV has been a career I wanted all my life, music is something I couldn’t deny. I felt it was a force that would open me up to other things like what I am doing now. I have released a limited edition of my debut album Live and Unplugged. I see it going far. I see me on international stages, singing at the Dove Award, Stellar Award, Grammy’s and all the big international concerts you can think of.

• EKENG BASSEY

Tell me a bit about your growing up days. Where were you born? I was born in Kaduna. My father was an army officer, so we moved from one state to another. I attended primary School in Port Harcourt and secondary school in Zaria. My tertiary education was at Covenant University, Ota. I was in the pioneer set. Growing up was fun though. From taking my dad’s boots off his feet to going on summer holidays to London was just amazing. Life was like bread and butter. You got an award while in the University. What was it about? I was the first president of Green Week. This eventually became ‘College Week’. The Green Week was created by Bayo Akomolafe, other colleges decided to join in subsequent years. What we did was, we took a week off studies to provide human and environmental friendly services in the school community. We washed dishes at the cafeteria and let the staff go off duty. We served students food at the cafeteria. We washed our lecturers’ cars. We conducted lessons for younger students. We assisted in marking for lecturers; generally making life

easy for both staff and students. It was fun. I’m proud to be a brain behind that. What has been your biggest challenge so far and how do you overcome challenges? My biggest challenge has been living beyond the limits Bell’s palsy caused me. Whatever challenges I face, I never take my faith out of the picture. I pray always. I ask for guidance and counsel and God always makes a way of escape for me. How do you take time off to relax and where is your best holiday spot? After working hours, I watch all the talk shows I can catch on TV. Then, I’m off to my room to have a chat with friends on my phone. I relax that way. I also love visiting friends. We could either watch a movie at theirs or go for karaoke. My best holiday spot would have to be any of the islands. Mauritius was like the best holiday spot I ever went to. What is the biggest lesson you have ever learnt? The biggest lesson I have ever learnt would be the importance of family. They may reject you, misunderstand you, but they are your greatest link to your past, present and future. July 5, 2015 /

• VIMBAI MUTIHIRI 6 10

/ July 5, 2015

You have been in Nigeria for some time now. What’s your impression about Nigeria and Nigerians?

Should we expect wedding bells soon? Possibly…

• EKENG BASSEY

H EA L TH

HEALTHY LIVING101 by - Teri Mendes

e t o u Q of the week

Getting a good night’s rest is

Beauty is but a lease from nature.

Today I have put together 6 suggestions to help you get your

- EDWARD COUNSEL, Maxims

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

For comments and questions please email terimendes@gmail. com, @terimendes. I would love to hear from you, till next week. - it’s ta ta for now! XOXO

TERI Speaks Dear Teri, Is Quinoa locally available here in Nigeria? Best wishes, Imeh

/ July 5, 2015

Dear Imeh, If you live in Lagos, Quinoa can be bought from Park and Shop, L’epicerie Supermarket on Idowu Martins off Adeola Odeku V.I. Lagos. Best wishes, Teri M

F EA T U R E

Get Captivated By - Jerome Onipede

ON YOUR MARKS! TELL LIES! GET MARRIED! I sit back these days and Wonder why telling lies seem to be in vogue. When I was growing up, it was a shameful thing to lie, and if you are caught, you are on your own, because there’s a probability that one of your parents will expose you and get all the other children in the neighborhood to sing on your head one of those songs that may give you nightmares and never make you lie again. But things have changed now; even parents can be your no 1 fan when it comes to someone who encourages you to tell a lie. People are not ashamed of telling lies anymore even in public places. Take for example, you are in a public transport on your way to Abuja, and this guy beside you receives a phone call, you will be shocked to know that he doesn’t give a damn about those in the vehicle with him as he goes on telling litany of lies. You may ask how I know he is lying. Well, he just told the caller he is down with flu and is on his bed! Some other times, you hear people on the phone saying they are somewhere very different from where they really are. All these really send shivers down my spine. You can imagine what I have to go through working with people, these same people. I was in Abuja once when a potential lady client came to see me in my hotel, so that I may

interview her and know if she’s the kind of person I would like to work for as regards The Matchmaking Program. By the time we were through, I decided to see her off to the door; a tradition i keep with my clients or counselees to the door, and I realize she was a little bit uncomfortable, about my kind gesture, so I asked her if she was okay, and she said yes, but that she would be more comfortable if she left on her own. I then probed a little bit further to find out why. I learnt some guy had actually brought her over and she wouldn’t want him to see me. I went a bit further to know what relationship she has with the guy, and reluctantly, she told me that he is her boyfriend. I stood there speechless wondering if what she said was what I heard. When I was bold enough to face the reality that my potential client was brought by her boyfriend to seek the service of a matchmaker, I made her sit back at the reception, and we started another round of counseling session. I learnt from her that she has been dating this guy for some time, but that he wasn’t making any move towards marriage despite the fact that he is single, though he has been very nice to her. In her confusion, she decided to look elsewhere, so that she wouldn’t put her eggs in one basket according to her. Now

POCKET FINA by - Omilola Oshikoya 25 Questions you should ask yourself to know if you are financially intelligent Financial intelligence could be defined as financial literacy. Individuals require financial intelligence for their personal lives as well as in their business. In order to know if you are financially intelligent, you need to take the financial intelligence test below. FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE TEST Take a sheet of paper and pen and answer yes or no to the following questions: 1. Do you know what stage you are at in the financial life cycle? 2. Do you know your net-worth? 3. Are you satisfied with your current net-worth? 4. Do you have a financial plan? 5. Do you set financial goals? 6. Do you have an emergency fund i.e. enough savings to see you through six months of normal living expenses if you lose your job or have an emergency? 7. Do you save money regularly? 8. Do you have a bank account? 9. Do you reconcile your bank statements every month? 10. Do you know how much you spend on a monthly basis? 11. Does your spending exceed your earnings? 12. Do you have a personal, household or family budget and do you successfully manage it? 13. Do you avoid credit purchases? 14. Do you have any investments 15. Do you take advantage of savings and investment opportunities that come your way? 16. Do you diversify your investments?

17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

that is what I call lying! I agree with so many things here, but disagree with the fact that she made her boyfriend bring her to seek for another potential guy for a potential relationship? Why didn’t she just call off the relationship Poor Guy! You see, it’s not only men who lie after all. Women lie too, and when they do, it’s usually so perfectly done that it will take the help of God for you to find out. I` was in a women’s meeting once at Wuse Zone 7, Abuja, when a good female friend of mine said openly that one thing she is sure of is that while it is easy for you to catch a man who is into adultery, it may take forever for you to discover that a woman has been cheating on you all along. You know what! I couldn’t agree less. She is quite right about that. TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK…

AFOLABI. He is 32, works for a Security Firm in Lagos, Nigeria. Determined, constantly developing himself. He is excited about meeting a wonderful SINCERE woman with FORESIGHT. He has the Personality of a Family Man, and his company you will enjoy. Are you a Female working and living in Lagos, 25-30 years, ready to build a meaningful and promising life with a Good Man, then you may want to give Afolabi a chance. To know more about Afolabi, please call +2349051669991

Counseling inquiries on Marriage, Relationships, Career and Matchmaking >> @jeromeistalking on Twitter. “Like” Jerome Yaovi Onipede on Facebook.

NCE

Do you have life insurance? Do you have a plan for your children’s education? Do you own a house or have a mortgage? Do you have a retirement plan? Do you have a will? Are you financially independent? Do you give money to a worthy cause or the less privileged? Are you satisfied with the contribution you have made to the world? Do you have a financial coach or financial adviser?

SCORES Do not despair if you have more no’s than yes’. The key thing is awareness. The law of awareness says,“You must know yourself to grow yourself”. The key thing is to know you need help and begin to take the necessary steps to get yourself to where you want to be. SO HOW DO YOU IMPROVE YOUR FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE? First of all, you are already on the right track since you are reading this column. Good job. There are a lot of resources available to us in this present generation. The internet provides access to unlimited resources and information regarding financial intelligence. It is important to read books and also speak to experts in the field such as financial coaches. You should also attend seminars and make sure you continue reading this column. Omilola is a UK certified life coach, financial/wealth/business coach, public speaker, entrepreneur, media and publications specialist. Omilola spent the last 12 years in Finance/Investment banking and Accounting in different sectors such as Healthcare, Aviation, Hospitality and Retail, Financial Services, Infrastructure etc. For comments and questions please email pocketfinance101@gmail. com. Follow @pocketfinance and @omilola on twitter. Also visit www. pocketfinance101.blogspot.com www.omioshikoya.blogspot.com July 5, 2015 /

F EAT U R E

SIDETALK&CATWALKS A weekly column

by LATASHA NGWUBE

You have something to say to me? Send a text to 08114495303 Ff me on twitter @latashangwube

INDEPENDENT HANDBAG DESIGNER AWARDS 2015 The 8th Independent Handbag Designer Awards founded in 2007 by Handbag Designer 101, to celebrate handbag designs and creativity from around the world, took place recently in New York. Being the only international design competition of its kind, IHDA is the platform for putting new handbag designer talent on the map. This year’s edition which took place at the SVA Theatre on West 23rd Street, saw a host of creativity curated from across the globe. It was also special for a different reason as Nigeria’s O’Eclat Designs by Gbemmy Johnson, was nominated in the category of Most Socially Responsible Bag. In full support of the ever present “Buy Nigerian” campaign, I turned up at the venue on special invitation by Ms. Johnson, to be a part of one of the fashion industry’s most memorable evenings of the year- responsible for high profile collaborations and hundreds of success stories. There were nine categories up for grabs in totality as well as a special recognition to The 2015 IHDA ICONOCLAST Recipient: Rebecca Minkoff. All winners have been slated for features in the September Issue of InStyle Magazine.

THE CATEGORIES THE TRINA TURK BEST STUDENT MADE HANDBAG:  Students who successfully started their lines while still in school.

THE BERNINA BEST HANDMADE HANDBAG:   Made with any material where the designer is making their bag by sewing machine or by hand.

THE EVINE LIVE BEST HANDBAG IN OVERALL STYLE AND DESIGN:   Best executed handbag overall in style and design .

/ July 5, 2015

THE KLEAN KANTEEN BEST GREEN HANDBAG:   Bags that are made out of sustainable, recycled or organic materials .

DISTINCTLY DENIM BY GUESS HANDBAGS: T   he most trend driven use of denim, in a playful and imaginative way by embracing the personality of the brand .

THE STAND OUT & LOOK GREAT WORK BAG BY MOO:   Creating the unisex bag for professionals on the go. Business does not have to be boring. THE FASHION 4 DEVELOPMENT MOST SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE HANDBAG:   Bags that are made in a country where the proceeds are given back to the country of manufacturing or people that are employed to manufacture handbags to better their lives and/ or conditions .

THE MARY KAY MOST IRRESISTIBLE MAKEUP BAG:   The most versatile and stylish makeup bag that every woman will want.

QUICKIE WITH GBEMMY JOHNSON OF O’ECLAT DESIGNS Tell me a bit about getting to this point in your life? I have a university degree in Microbiology. After venturing into the art and business of handbag making, I knew a lot had to be done to perfect our production and business, so as to enable us stay relevant and successful. I got a diploma in fashion merchandising and design while on the job and I also had training and apprenticeship programs on Leather Cleaning and Restoration. How did you feel about your IHDA nomination? Being selected as a finalist for the 9th Independent Handbags Designers Awards out of 1500 applications was such a great honour and I was very excited about it. I didn’t win it eventually, but trust me when I say that the nomination in itself felt like I’d won the jackpot and I know how lucky I am to have made it thus far. “Most Socially Responsible” that is not a title one hears often in these parts, why is that? What is/are the rewards of toeing this path?

Gbemmy Johnson

Being an ethical and socially responsible label, takes a lot of determination and hardwork, as producing in Nigeria can be frustrating. Regardless of the challenges, we work closely with our local artisans and weavers within the country, so as to keep the traditional art and techniques alive while providing them with fair wages and in return help them sustain themselves and their families. What did you take away from this entire experience despite not clinching the award? To continue to believe in my dreams and keep pushing the brand. What is in the pipeline for O’eclat? We like to take things one step at a time and keep it simple. We will continue to push the boundaries for O’Eclat both nationally and internationally.

O’EclatDesigns

PEOPL E

“ O N E PA RT Y AT A T I M E ! ”

AT THE TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE OF OLOWO’S SON By Abayomi Adeshida

It was a demonstration of rich Owo traditional marriage rites as the son of the Olowo of Owo, Oba Olateru-Olagbegi, Prince Olaleke Olateru-Olagbegi wedded his wife, Princess Olubunmi Aladejebi at a princely reception held at the ancient town of Owo, Ondo State.

OBA OLATERU-OLAGBEGI AND OLORI OLOLADE OLATERU-OLAGBEGI

OBA EBIYANMI ADAKO OF IYERE OWO

PRINCE OLANREWAJU ABEGUNDE

PRINCESS OLUBUNMI OLATERU-OLAGBEGI

THE OJOMO OF IJEBU OWO

MULIKA OLORA

PRINCE OLALEKE OLATERU-OLAGBEGI

BRIDE’S GRANDMA

PRINCESS ADEJOKE ADEBUSOYE

PRINCESS FARAMADE OLATERU-OLAGBEGI

OLAYEMI OGUNSAKIN

PRINCESS ADESOLA ARALEPO

OMOBOLANLE OJOTU

July 5, 2015 /