C O N T E N T S
Vital Fashion - PAGE 14 Careers Portfolio PAGE 16
COVER STORY VW “Be Inspired” Lisa Alexander , famously known as the Marketing Stylist, shares with us some of her passions. She says about her latest book - “I wrote “This Woman Knows” because I kept encountering women who didn't know. They didn't recognize their worth. They undersold themselves in the workplace or marketplace.”
PAGE 6 Leading Ladies - PAGE 9
Spotlight on a Vital Woman PAGE 17 Vital Devotional PAGE 18 Youthful Fashion PAGE 19 Style Splash! PAGE 22
Vital Beauty - PAGE 10 Vital Home - PAGE 12
Real Estate Realities PAGE 24 Vital Woman-Life Coach PAGE 25
Chef's Corner - PAGE 13
VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
Vital Travel PAGE 26
Editor's Note Finally, spring is here and so is our spring edition, packed full with wonderful tips to prepare you for the beautiful Spring/Summer months when the weather is kinder to us and we get the opportunity to get some sun and lots of colours out!
Vital Home is another column not to be missed; “Punkin Patch Interiors” has wowed us once again with fascinating contributions that always keeps us excited about adding more beauty to our homes! I will definitely be borrowing a leaf out of her book.
We are filled with excitement as we bring Over at “Chef's Corner", we bring you you refreshing features beaming with mouth-watering dishes from an hope and inspiration! awesome lady who has gone on to write a cookery book packed full with exquisite Make your first stop at the VW “Be and gastronomic recipes. The proud Inspired” pages to enjoy our interview receiver of the Gourmand World with the incredible Lisa Alexander. Find Cookbook Award 2009, Funke Koleosho out what she has to say about her is making waves in the UK. Enjoy! amazing new book and be truly inspired to move forward with your dreams and “Real Estate Realities” brings you a passions. worldwide view on women and property rights, another insightful not-to-be “Spotlight on a Vital Woman” and missed segment! Very intriguing read! “Leading Ladies” are columns you want to keep your eyes on as we feature Vital Devotional takes us deeper as we women who are working hard to help explore the ever essential subject of inspire others! fusing our faith with our everyday lifestyle – How we rise from the place of Stop over at “Careers Portfolio”, the prayer and live as a witness for God place to pick up tips to help you on your amongst people. journey as you build your own successful career. Don't leave out our Readers' page designed specifically to bring you; Pick up some motivation from our Life information, advice and news about Coach, Bridget Washington as she talks some of the innovative things happening about how to move mountains! This is a here at Vital Woman! must read! Bridget takes you through a few pointers about riding with the tide Our Events page is also a great place to until you come up the other end – have a peek at what we've been up to Success. here at Vital Woman since our last edition. A great place to play catch up! Stunning ideas for your wardrobe comes to you from “Anita Quansah London”. Be I eagerly look forward to reading your sure to soak in the beauties on our Style emails as you feedback your comments Splash and Vital Fashion pages as I have and questions. no doubt that you will find her ideas Cheers, interesting, invigorating and exciting! Lara Mfon.
Magazine Team Founder/Editor-in-chief Lara Mfon Fashion Editor Patrice Augustus-Brown Columnists Toks Ferreira-Aruoture FunkeAdeaga BayoMfon BolajiYemi Bridget Washington Youth Editor Joshua Mfon Contributors A Very Present Help Ministries Anita Quansah London 3D Looks Design and layout Nigel Quist Advertising, Editorials and General enquiries Telephone: +44 774 599 7624 Email: info@avitalwoman.com Website: www.avitalwoman.com www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
Vital Blogs
Reader's Connect
Ask Vital Woman
JUST ASK Question How Can I Increase My Client Base? Answer There are many things you can do to increase your client base but, I will take you through three pointers of what you can start to do today. 1 – Special offers/Prize draws to any new clients – a free gift for a certain order level. 2 – Open a Facebook page and a Twitter account for your business – to increase your network. 3 - Offer free advice and tips around your subject area – this will call people's attention to what you do and set you apart in your industry. For more business success tips, visit and follow our blog ; http://runningahomebasedbusiness.wordpress.com/
News
We are delighted to announce a new addition to our magazine team; Bolanle Feyita , Head of Artistry at MAKEUPPRO, joins our team of columnists as our Beauty Writer. Her beauty column will feature lots of helpful information as well as some make-up tips! Watch out for her amazing work in the summer edition of the magazine!
VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
Blogroll Vital Woman Blog http://avitalwoman.com/blog Business First Steps http://www.businessfirststep.co.uk Make Up Pro http://bymakeuppro.com/ Run A Home Based Business http://runningahomebasedbusiness.wordpress.com Inspire Me http://inspiremeinc.wordpress.com Connect with Vital Woman on Social Media Facebook https://www.facebook.com/VitalWomanMagazine Twitter https://twitter.com/VitalWoman
SPECIAL OFFER ADVERTISING RATES – FOR A LIMITED PERIOD ONLY For our quarterly digital magazine: Full page £50 Half page £30 Quarter page -£20 Executive Profile package – Please send us an email to enquire about the rates for this. *Prices quoted are for publication in one issue only. Facebook Advert Slots – Please send us an email for further enquiry To place an advert contact us by email – info@avitalwoman.com
Over the years after losing loved ones and friends at such premature ages, I have come to realise that what you take into your body is paramount. A NATURAL HEALTH SUPPLEMENT -The Kyäni Health Triangle is made up of three distinct products that work synergistically to give the body an all-natural and unmatched source of vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, nitric oxide, and antioxidant compounds.
All of this can protect the body at a cellular level and lead to optimal health, which can help fight diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, joint pains, Autism, ADHD, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's diseases and many more . Together, these three products can be the blueprint to neutralizing free radicals and protecting our cells and achieving a new level of health and wellness. Based on cutting-edge science and nutrition, Kyäni has worked diligently to develop superior products that promote health and wellness. The Kyäni Health Triangle™ features the power of Wild Alaskan Blueberries, tocotrienols (the most impactful form of vitamin E), omega-3 fatty acids, and nitric oxide with one easy-to-use system yielding positive results. Taking these products within a short period of time has helped to boost my immune system especially against influenza. I feel a sense of strength and improved health inside out. I would normally take a pain reliever every two weeks for some pain or the other but so far Kyani has been tremendous. I personally know of an autism, insomnia and many joint patients whose health have improved or been completely healed soon after using some of our Kyani natural health supplements.
For Sales, Information and General enquires: Contact Essie Rewane at; Email: essierewane@gmail.com Telephone: +44 7809 410 642 Facebook:www.facebook.com/kyanihealthuk Website: www.essy.kyani.net
VW “BE INSPIRED”
Who is
Lisa Alexander?
Lisa Alexander is a woman who knows what she produces is good! Believe me, the journey to this place of knowing was a long one. But what a satisfying feeling knowing that you're doing and being all you were created for. So whether I'm speaking to an audience, writing, consulting with a client or designing, I know the work being presented is good. I'm also the wife of a good man for the past 25 years, and we have two children and rambunctious Labrador named Kobe.
record collection growing up and I remember pouring over the album covers. I loved the music and the covers. I especially loved the Rufus featuring Chaka Kahn album cover. I was also enamoured with Aretha Franklin's Amazing Grace cover and of course Michael Jackson's Off The Wall cover. Oh how I loved Michael! I went to private schools and for the most part they were very nurturing environments-especially the junior high school I attended. I'm still friends with some of my classmates and cherish those friendships! I do talk about my education and career in my How would you describe your childhood, educational background book so I don't want to give it all away here. I will say that I did go and career? back to school later in life and finished my undergraduate work of As I child, I loved the arts. I loved to write poetry and short stories. I which I'm very proud. I even graduated with honours! loved photography. I admired abstract art and sculptures and I loved to dance. Even as a kid who wasn't exactly rail thin, I danced So, what was the main attraction into the world of writing? well. I took a modern dance class and the instructors were I've always loved a good story. Whether listening to my Nana recall impressed with my abilities. My children find it hard to believe that her days as a young girl on the farm or enthralled in a gripping their mother once danced and was actually pretty good. My whodunit—a good story has the ability to catapult you into a daughter picked up where I left off and is an amazing dancer and different place and time. When my Nana passed away, I found has danced for a few Christian hip-hop artists. solace in a good book. I read so I could suspend my reality just long My father is responsible for my love of music and probably enough to keep from crying. I finished an entire novel the weekend influenced my career as a graphic designer. He had this massive she passed away. So the art of telling a story and telling it well has always intrigued me. I'm a bit competitive so I challenged myself to write in such a way that would keep readers engaged and create imagery that placed them in the story. Phenomenal storytellers were my attraction and I wanted to tell good stories too and discovered I was pretty good at it! Who or what inspired you to write this book? I wrote “This Woman Knows” because I kept encountering women who didn't know. They didn't recognize their worth. They undersold themselves in the workplace or marketplace. I kept reading articles and blog posts about women who were afraid to charge what they were worth. I read post after Facebook post from women who were scared to pursue their dreams and I knew it was time to tell my story. Because something incredibly amazing happens when you turn 40, you've finally figured some things out and see things clearer than you've ever seen them before and you realize you do have a story to tell and that your experience can benefit others. I had the idea for the book about ten years ago and even had a working title but the timing wasn't right. Now is
VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
the perfect time and I had to wait for it . How did the book come about? I talk about it in the book but there was one particular job interview that utterly changed my life. I was asked a question that I was completely unprepared for and I never forgot the interviewer's words. That experience was the beginning of my journey of knowing and accepting who I was and recognizing my own worth. That experience was the catalyst of my change into a woman who knows.
market myself from that place. I don't try to be anybody else because that has never proved successful. I'm forever the student and I need to learn something new. At one point, I thought I could be a career student! I love learning new things. I never allow myself to believe that I know it all or that I have arrived—that attitude certainly precedes a downward spiral. I believe in taking care of my customers, my vendors and very soon…my employees. I've been successful because I've remained true to who God created me to be and by listening, observing and being willing to try something I've never seen done before.
How would you describe your role as a Marketing Stylist? I love my life as The Marketing Stylist™! I get to help male and female business owners grow their businesses through targeted marketing efforts. In some instances, I function as a coach for those who've never operated a business before or need a bit of direction. But for the most part, I develop marketing strategies and plans for my clients. I still do some design work too. I am still passionate about creating for the printed and electronic page. In my role as marketing stylist, I have the privilege of training business owners who may not have a large marketing budget yet still desire to grow their businesses. So I developed a marketing bootcamp where I teach business owners the basics of marketing and how to avoid costly mistakes. My marketing bootcamp participants swear by it.
The vision of Vital Woman is to encourage, empower and enlighten others, as they embrace their calling and step into their God-ordained destiny whether in business/ministry. How do you think your role has impacted the lives of women generally? David Weekly of David Weekly Homes said that we have to be good stewards of influence as well as good stewards of affluence. That statement struck me deeply because we do have to be mindful of the influence we have. Jesus said we are the light of the world and we have a responsibility to that Light. We have to manage our influence and make sure that we are positively influencing others. I've had women tell me that they were inspired or blessed by something I wrote or said. That they've made some positive decisions based on those words. This absolutely amazes me! I was having lunch with a friend and business owner and I was sharing some things…nothing too deep I thought…and she said stop. Apparently I said something she needed to hear and she needed a minute to let that word settle. This influence happens or works even when you think you're just casually chatting over lunch. Manage your influence well.
Where do you see your marketing outfit in10 years from now? In ten years, I will have relaunched my marketing communications firm! I'll be doing less consulting, more public speaking, more traveling and spending more time with family! I'm really excited about this next phase too. I'm looking forward to employing and training the next generation of marketers, designers, researchers, copywriters and Web developers. A young man I know and correspond with is currently serving time in prison and he's an incredible artist. I sent him a book on logo design and nothing would make me happier than to hire him once he's released. He's an amazing talent and I want to expose him to a variety of opportunities. Opportunities I didn't know existed when I graduated from high school. Maybe, just maybe, I can shave some time off someone else's process and they can go further faster and also pay it forward.
We are curious to know if you have time for any hobbies or interests outside of work? I love photography, particularly black and white fine art photography! Back in 2000, I had my own show for FotoFest and picking up my camera again is definitely on my list of things to do. I also like to garden and successfully harvested a small crop for the first time last year. I'm currently making plans for an expanded garden this year.
Thank you Lisa, for such an inspiring interview, we pray God's blessings over you and all that concerns you! I have no doubt that your area of influence will increase and you will be a greater blessing to many. We hope you will return to share some more with us in the very near future as God moves you into greater If you could have done something slightly heights and deeper depths in Him! differently in your career or set up of your - Lara Mfon. business, what would it be? I wish I would have dismissed the lies I told Contact Lisa Alexander via; myself sooner. I wish I would have believed www.facebook.com/TheMarketingStylist the truth about myself sooner and acted on www.twitter.com/LisaNAlexander that truth instead of hiding. Thank goodness “all things work together ” and I'm moving www.linkedin.com/in/LisaNAlexander forward—full steam ahead. www.ThisWomanKnows.com
How are you able to successfully run your marketing outfit with the competition out there? I know my USP or unique selling proposition and I
www.TheMarketingStylist.com
www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
VW Events Jewellery Making Workshop.
Vital Woman activities over the winter months.One of our initiatives to help empower women through skill acquisition and skill empowerment. This jewellery workshop was delivered by Anita of Anita Quansah London.
Vital Woman Business Start-Up Workshop. Another one of our initiatives to help equip business owners with adequate skills in running successful businesses. Images from workshop delivery to members of a local community in England.
VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
VW LEADING LADIES they will appreciate your time and skills. Many people who have started their own businesses have also suffered the same way, and I think that when we have skills we would like to share and in the hope of benefiting others it would be possible not to be treated badly as if we are second rate because we are women. The challenge I am facing at the moment is getting my story finished so I can get it published. I am writing my life story so far regarding my relationship with God the Achievements/Awards:I suppose my main Father, and how he has been helping me achievement would be that I have throughout all my life and sharing the successfully driven across Spain on my own wonderful things that he has done for me. and started a new life and met a lot of Without my faith in God and His hand on my interesting people along the way. life I would not have been here to tell the Present occupation: I work freelance as a story. Marketer on the Internet, I help people find When I was 21 I was dying of Chronic property for their dream home. nervous Indigestion – which on the face of does not sound too serious – however when you are unable eat or drink for a period of Who inspired you to pursue your present time it becomes very uncomfortable and career/profession/business? It started because my husband and I decided miserable, especially as you do feel hungry that for me to work outside the home was but are then in a state of fear that you are proving impossible as we never saw each not going to be able to keep anything down. other, we both were tired and fed up with During this period I was reading the that so we decided to try another route. scriptures and although I did not believe in I started getting interested in the internet God something was happening. One night I and wanting to find something interesting to lay in bed in absolute pain and fear, it do. I discovered there is a lot more to seemed like a great weight was crushing the making money on the internet and learning very life out of me, I cried out to God and marketing strategies and developing said that “God you know I do not believe in networks across the world was a challenging you but please would you help me” at that one. However, my main aim has always been moment, the weight was lifted off and the to try and find ways to help other people pain went and I fell to sleep, in the morning I reach their goals in life. did eat and although it was very strange how I have a very happy settled way of life and I I felt I knew that God had heard my cry and enjoy it. he had delivered me from death. During the rest of my life I have been an avid reader of the Word of God and have been learning What were the main challenges you faced more and more about the amazing God – during the early stages of pursuing your creator of the universe, how all his rules and career/profession/business? Being ripped off was a great difficulty teachings make sense and how when you because no matter how hard you try to consider the way we as human beings have achieve your goal of becoming self-sufficient treated each other it is a wonder that he has and offer good services, there is always not chosen to wipe us all away. I praise God someone around who is wanting to for my life and am grateful for every minute “promote you” for loads of cash, which of the day. I enjoy writing my blogs about amounts to nothing happening except large the Word of God and what he has been holes in your bank account. I learnt the hard teaching through it and in the hope that as way of trying to achieve in setting up my people read what I write they too will look at own secretarial business as people wanted their own lives and see just how amazing we the work done but not pay for the service. are. I am grateful for the opportunity to That is also a great problem. share my faith with others. I suppose because I am fairly friendly and I do not presume to teach others, I just share helpful people seem to want to take what I have learnt. advantage, unfortunately this attitude does not really help. For me working for myself is What are the top 3 time management tips a challenge and finding the right way forward that you have adopted and imbibe into your has always been difficult, however the best daily routine? way for me to move forward is to always 1) Learning to take time to come offer the best service possible and hope that before God and pray for his Name: Sue Page Education and Qualifications: Clydebank Technical College – Scottish Certificate of Administrative & Professional Education – Secretarial training, with languages – French and English, Office Practice – Shorthand, Typing, Duplicating. Escola de MariaImmaculada – Santo Amario – Sao Paulo EscolaBritanica – Sao Paulo, Brazil Profession: PA/Audio Secretary
guidance and his peace in my daily walk. 2) To rest in his grace, knowing that all my earthly planning and clever ways of dreaming up stuff do not really amount to much in the scheme of His ways. 3) I take a walk with my dog and spend time appreciating the beauty that surrounds us, I enjoy the breeze on my face, the smells of the flowers and trees, watching the birds and animals enjoying the very life that they have. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I see myself sitting on a mountain watching beautiful sunsets and appreciating the very breath in my body to rejoice every morning. I see myself walking with my dog and my daughter's dogs enjoying the company of others, developing new skills and learning new languages.Helping others grow. What would you say to other women who aspire to become professionals in your chosen field? Well I suppose whatever you are really happy doing and enjoy doing and for me it is helping others. The calling on my life is one of faith – God spoke clearly to me when I was in my 20's when I asked him what He had given me my hands for – at the time I was decorating the house. The answer was simple – he could use me best as a wife and a mother to bring comfort to the people. So in my writings and daily life that is what I try to do. When I hear of someone's sorrows I try to help them find a solution. You do not get rich helping others by money standards but you sure feel rich when you watch the persons face turn from sorrow to joy and help them come to some resolution in their own lives. What are your hobbies? Reading the Bible,knitting, Sewing, working on my marketing, property matchmaking. How have you successfully introduced relaxation into your busy routine?Each morning I get up have breakfast – read the word of God – pray, take the dog out for a nice walk and then come home and ready for the day. Being relaxed and rested and trusting God helps me to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that no matter how difficult things may at first appear He knows all my needs and he is able and does provide me with a solution. I trust and obey His Word over and above anything else I do. www.avitalwoman.com VITAL WOMAN
VITAL BEAUTY first look. I powdered a bit where needed using Ben NYE Loose powder in Banana. EYES: I extended the liner to create a winged line effect using Inglot gel liner#77. I added some lashes to the top and the bottom of her eyes to create a dramatic effect. I reapplied the Urban Decay 1st look- NATURAL/CLEAN LOOK I started out with a clean look so it will be easy to add on as I concealer in the water line and left the eyeshadow application by transform the model. Yaby Cosmetics from the first look as is. FACE: The foundation of choice was KevynAucoin skin enhancer LIPS: I used MAC Cosmetics lip pencil in Currant all over the lips, mixed with the Graftobian HD foundation from the warm palette. and a black opal lip color and added some clear gloss. This was applied using the Beauty Blender. It gave the model beautiful and dewy skin. I highlighted using Urban decay cream 3rd look- COLOR- EYES AND LIPS highlight, topped with MAKE UP FOREVER Compact shine which SKIN: I kept the base the same as it was from look #1 but I applied added glow to the skin. I used Nars blush in TajMahal ever so lightly concealer from the MAKE UP FOREVER #1 Camouflage Cream on the apples of the cheeks. I contoured slightly with Face atelier Palette to highlight under the eyes a bit more. I powdered that with bronzer in brushed sable. Kett Cosmetics pressed powder. I used Covergirl Bronzer to warm EYES: I started out filling her brows slightly with MAC Cosmetics up her skin by adding some contour as well. Fluidline brow gel crème and MAC Cosmetics eyebrow pencil in EYES: I used MAC Cosmetics eye pencil in engraved and applied strut. My eyeshadow of choice was from Yaby cosmetics. I used all over the lid to act as a base. I used some blue/turquoise/ green some neutral shades from Yaby cosmetics to create a soft yet and brown shadows from Yaby Cosmetics on the eyes. I lined with neutral eye look. I lined the top using Inglot gel #77 close to the Inglot Gel #77 and topped it up with MAC Cosmetics eye pencil in lashes. I used Urban decay concealer pencil in DOD in the waterline. Engraved. No lashes were used for this look. I added some Covergirl mascara LIPS: Same from second look to her lashes LIPS: I added some clear gloss form Victoria secret. 4th look-PIGMENT EXPLOSION I left everything as it and changed the lip color to an orange lip shade called morange from the MAC Cosmetics Pro Lip editorial 2nd look- ALL ABOUT LASHES SKIN: I kept the skin the same but added a little more blush and Pallette in Orange. I then sprinkled some loose pigment from NYX contoured a bit more using the same products as mentioned in the Cosmetics on one side of the face for added drama. Model: JosmaryAdames Makeup and Hair: Victoria Dada Theme of shoot: Transformation
VITAL WOMAN
www.avitalwoman.com
3D Looks - Website : www.3dlooksmakeup.com Email : info@3dlooksmakeup.com
Pamper Me Jewels
Website : www.pampermejewels.co.uk Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pamper-Me-Jewels/427544687336657
Decorating on a Budget
stores dotting the outskirts of town where Over the years, experts have labelled our the old stock is sold off at sale prices. lifestyles based on what's going on in the economy. Currently we are in the period of Revamp the old 'make do and mend'. Are you a dab hand at DIY? You can purchase As the phrase suggests, this is not a season special effect paints from DIY stores and to purchase new items but to make do with revamp your old furniture. Your dining table what you have and mend what's torn or really doesn't have to be oak or pine broken. In other words, it is a season to be coloured, why not add a vibrant colour to frugal. your home by painting the legs or entire Women have a natural gift to be frugal when table orange or green? If your furniture is needed, but frugality does not have to mean already painted, you can cheat by sanding dull and mundane. lightly and priming the surface with a 'Home is where the heart is', 'an primer, before painting. The primer keeps Englishman's home is his castle' and 'there's the paint on. There are also paint removers, no place like home' are all phrases that chemicals that you brush unto the surface, emphasise the importance of our homes, making scraping easier. For your dining besides being simply a roof over our heads. chairs, recover the seats in a bright and Home is where dreams are formed and cheery fabric like this fabric I found in Ikea. memories are created. Home is where you There are six different colours on this fabric want to come to after a long hard day at alone, which means you can cherry pick on work; it is a place of refuge in times of what your main colour will be. The mustard distress. is a lovely colour so buy some plain mustard Thankfully you are not limited to charity or fabric and make a pair of curtains for the second-hand shops while decorating on a budget- those are great for vintage finds and antiques and you may find some unusual pieces that will fit in nicely with your personal style- but there's even more you can do on a budget.
Fairs and Exhibitions Consumer and trade shows feature cutting edge designs often at prices that do some damage to your bank account. However if you go on the last day of the show, you are bound to pick up some bargains. The exhibitors want to end the show on a good note and any sale is usually welcome. Also stock that did not sell are gotten rid of at discount prices. You will save them transporting their items back to storage so it is certainly worth a try- and remember to bargain on the price too.
End of Season Buys
dining room. I picked mustard because yellows reds and oranges whet the appetite making it ideal for dining rooms- that's why the fast food companies use those colours in their logos. The same principle will work for the sitting room, use a patterned fabric for the cushions and pick a coordinating solid for the curtains. Tired and worn carpet tired? Remove it and you just may find good floorboards that can be sanded down and stained. Dress with a brightly coloured rug.
Online Marketplaces
Craigslist and Gumtree offer a wealth of Just like the world of fashion, the world of goodies when it comes to buying things for interiors follows a trend. For instance the Pantone colour of 2013 is Emerald Green, while last year's was Tangerine Tango, chosen for its vibrancy thereby encouraging us to recharge and move forward. What this means for you is that at the start of each year- and in between seasons the old will be on sale to make way for the new. Some stores sell off their stock to discount stores like TK Max, Burlingtons Coat Factory, etc, while others like Next (in the UK) have outlet VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
your home. Search for large items like dining tables or sofas and you are bound to find someone moving home. Target affluent areas when you do your searches and you will get a better quality of results. Also do the same in the classified section of local newspapers. Drive to high end neighbourhoods and pick up their local papers, or use their libraries. Many local newspapers now have online versions which you can peruse. Finally‌ Have fun! Your home is a place where memories are formed, make them fond ones. If you have fallen on hard times and you can no longer afford to shop like you did, have a thankful spirit that you are even alive to experience it. Be thankful that there are options and give yourself a pat on the back for being so creative.
Resources MalinSten Fabric, www.ikea.com www.gumtree.co.uk www.craigslist.com For paints and removers: www.diy.co.uk
Toks Aruoture is an interior designer and the CEO of Punkin Patch Interior designs, a luxury boutique for infant and children furnishings. Besides her passion for design and creative living, Toks loves to encourage and motivate women to stir up the gift of God inside them. She does this through her blogs, www.pawpawandmango.com and inspiremeinc.wordpress.com Toks is happily married with four beautiful boys.
Jollof Rice Jollof rice is a popular West African dish believed to originate from the Wolof people of Senegal/Gambia, based on the“onepot�technique of cooking referred to as Benachin.The dish is made with basic ingredients such as fresh tomatoes, onions, chillis and red peppers with a variety of herbs, spices and fruits depending on country and/or tribe. Jollof is served daily as a staple and at special events or parties across the whole of West Africa, with Nigerians thought to be the highest consumers of Jollof rice.Nigerians arrogantly claim have popularised the dish and that their version (which incorporates more chilli peppers) surpasses all others in taste and flavours! (Try my exciting Jollof rice recipe...)
An Exciting & Unique Taste Jollof rice is enjoyed for its rich and bold taste, full of exotic spices and slightly smoky flavours. The dish is typically served with an abundance of vegetables, meat, chicken or fish. Traditional Jollof rice is cooked in a cast iron pot over an open wood fire, even though it is now regularly cooked using newer modern techniques. The key to preparing a delicious Jollof rice dish lies in two things: good quality stock and an excellent blend of spices. What these deliver are the moreish taste & flavours that make you want more and an aroma which just lingers on, on your tongue! The next important thing to take note of is the pepper to rice ratio and your choice of rice. Whatever method you decide to use, you will discover and get addicted to the exciting and unique taste of Jollof rice. Try my recipe below.
What To Do Blend the tomatoes, pepper scotch 1. bonne 9if using)t and onion in a liquidizer. Simultaneously, gently heat the oil in a large pot and add the fresh thyme, nutmeg, pimentos,
garlic powder and curry powder. Allow the spices to infuse for about 2 minutes then pour the blend. Now add the chicken stock and bring to the boil. Pound the ginger, add and stir. Also add the tomato paste and allow to boil for 3-5 minutes under high heat. 2. Turn heat down and slowly introduce the rice stir in. Add just enough hot water to cook the rice, cover pot first with a sheet of foil paper and then with the pot lid. Allow to steam for about 10 minutes. 3. Open pot and check if rice is cooked. Add more hot water if required to cook the rice till soft. When all water/moisture has evaporated, gently stir rice avoiding scraping the bottom of the pot. Crush and sprinkle the crayfish cube or the ground crayfish. Stir well to distribute seasoning, then taste for salt, (use more or less crayfish depending on preference). Add the butter and stir in. Cover pot tight and simmer for a further 5 minutes to allow the flavours develop. 4. Jollof rice is typically served with fried chicken and fried plantain. You can vary this by serving with stewed fish or meatand steamed vegetables or other exciting side dish like moin-moin, mashed up beans or a rice crisp salad. Enjoy! Funke Koleosho is a Gourmand World Cookbook award winning Author. Funke also developed a cooking App Cook! Nigerian which features over 120 traditional and fusion Nigerian recipes, Nutritional calorific information on traditional ingredients and how to source them.
Download at: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/funke-koleoshoscook-nigerian/id423317864?mt=8&ls=1 www.contemporarynigeriancuisine.com info@contemporarynigeriancuisine.com www.facebook.com/funke.koleosho @tasteofnigeria www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
VITAL FASHION
AFROCENTRIC
Spring/Summer is fast approaching. Whilst we wait eagerly for the sun, we have infused our capsule wardrobe with bright and African inspired pieces. Making references to tailoring with strong architectural lines mixed with pieces with textures, embellishments and prints. For the Afrocentric look: we have for day look, paired an African inspired linen Jacket with a textured skinny belt, topped off with a statement necklace. Keeping this look still fun, we have kept the shoes and bag neutral to add a hint of contrast. For the evening look, we have gone for a tailored jacket with an African Print dress, accessorised with an embellished Bag, necklace and neutral coloured shoes. VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
One of the key trends for Spring/Summer 2013 is the ethnic/tribal. For this trend we have made reference to African traditional motifs mixing and clashing different shapes, embellishment and colours. For the day time look, we have teamed a printed culotte, with a soft pastel chiffon top, clinched into the waist with a skinny belt. Accessorised with a statement necklace, neutral bag and coloured blocked platform heels. For the evening look we have styled a draped jersey skirt with statement pieces, like the printed top with ethnic inspired necklace, Ikat bag and crystal encrusted shoes. www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
VITAL FASHION
WORLD TRAVELLER
Careers Portfolio Be the CEO of your career
Part 2 – Discovering your gift by JC Designs OUR ORIGIN In the first article written in the first edition of Vital Woman Magazine, it was mentioned that our gifts are inborn talents, which are unique to the individual. However, to expatiatemore on this will be to mention that it's something holy, the part of our nature from God. It's something that has to be nurtured and encouraged with kindness. This is because it is associated with a calling or purpose. A person's gift starts to show in the early form of our lives – as a child, the gifts begin to shine brightly. This is when a parent or teacher should identify it, support it and nurture it, so that it can be established before the flame is put out. One will notice that some things just come naturally to you than others e.g. learning a language, singing or doing some form of sports. Michelangelo looked at a block of marble and saw his David locked inside. According to him he wanted to glorify God with the masterpiece he created. In a family of four children, parents will have to identify the different gifts and help each child develop his/her gift. The fact that one of them is good at playing the piano doesn't necessarily mean that they all must be good and even if they are all good with musical instruments, they may not all play the piano.
-
To p l a y a n i n s t r u m e n t Entertainment on a new level MCs, DJs, /instruments Comedians - To sing in the choir not necessary as a soloist - It's our responsibility to identify - To have the capability as an end the gift user to be creative with music - Acquire knowledge to enhance it - Apply skills to boost it Also take riding a bicycle as an example, to one this may be a form of exercise or Peradventure, you still don't know what pleasure but for the other it maybe a you are good at then try the following: career. Or driving a car which is just a form of transportation for many of us - SWOT yourself but, for somebody else the desire may - Ask your family be to develop driving skills to the point - Break your daily routine of building a career out of it e.g. Formula - Experiment 1 drivers or perhaps running a luxury /prestige car hire business. “To become a great champion you must Tapping a football on Sunday afternoon believe you are the best. If you're not maybe a form of relaxation for some but, pretend you are” – Mohammed Ali for some it puts bread on the table. Some people can cook endlessly without tears in comparison to cooking being a chaos. There are a number of people who find great joy in cleaning the house from top to bottom every day in comparison to cleaning the house every Saturday with tears. Likewise some have green fingers – Plants naturally grow when they just touch them. The truth is natural gifts are possessed by everyone. The difference between those who succeed and those who don't istaking the time and effort to develop those abilities.
Football and David Beckham Acting and Singing – Will Smith One may have any of the musical Cooking – Jamie Oliver abilities which differ from the other: Extreme Cycling Stunts – Olympics VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
Bolaji Yemi is CEO of Jc Designs, a Spainish based company whose focus is on creating unique and personalized gift items. Contact: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages /JC-Designs/223453351041773
Kimberly
Wiefling
When did you start your business? Feb. 1, 2001 Why did you go into business for yourself? The company I was working for went totally out of business in the "dot com bust" of 2001. It was EXCITING! . . . and scary." What is your mission in life, what do you want to see happen? I'm afraid it will sound arrogant . . . but my mission is planetary transformation. Naturally I'm not doing it alone! YOU all are helping, right??!! Name one woman that inspires you and why? Hannah Kain. She's a personal friend of mine, and also the founder and CEO of the highest revenue womenowned business in the Silicon Valley, Alom, Inc.. She is determined, competent, and has an amazing sense of humor. She leads her business according to best-inclass standards, and she's an inspiring and capable leader. She's truly committed to empowering women to contribute to solving the problems we face on Planet Earth . What advice do you have for ladies going into ministry or business for the first time? Be prepared to stick to your principles, live by your values, and REFUSE to give up for at least 6 months after you think things are hopeless! That's when the miracle occurs. What advice do you have for those currently going through financial or relationship challenges? The reality is that we all go through difficult times in our lives. Reach out and ask for help. No one succeeds without it. Don't try to do this thing called "life" alone. If there is one lesson you have learned, what would it be? In any sphere of life. Be who you are, and don't measure your success by the approval of other people. Sometimes you're a hero, and sometimes you're a zero. Fans are fickle. You and your values should not be. Finally would you recommend Vital Woman Magazine and why? Vital Woman Magazine invites us to celebrate the joys of being a woman! Enjoy romping with the Queen's diamond jubilee or the latest fashion trend. VWM helps us relish being a woman!
www.avitalwoman.com
S P O T L I G H T
VITAL WOMAN
Vital Devotional
Reflection -
TAKE A LOOK IN
THE MIRROR
A great way to think about the word "reflection" is to take a look in the mirror - we instantly see a reflection of our physical appearance. Our spiritual life is supposed to mirror our actions when we are out doing our regular, daily mundane things. Basically, the time we spend doing our usual everyday stuff, should be a reflection of the time we are spending in communion and fellowship with God. As we spend time in fellowship with God and communion with the Holy Spirit, our character is being built up. The goal is not for us to live a double-standard lifestyle, where we are one person in the "presence" of God and another when we are relating with our friends or colleagues something like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. We must realise that we are always in the presence of God, whether we are spending time in worship or enjoying a meal with a friend in a fancy restaurant. If we lived our lives the same way as when we kneel in prayer before God, wow! What amazing peace and supernatural bliss we will experience and how much more of God's power we will carry, experience and enjoy! Kneeling before God in prayer, I can imagine how awkward it will be to be mean or say an unkind word to anyone. There is nothing wrong with telling God how upset you are with someone or indeed how you may be finding it difficult to allow a hurt or an offence go. Guess what? God knows already - He sees your heart always. Take everything to God in prayer and speak to Him, you will be amazed at how you will begin to get pointers on how to deal with the issue - God is in the business of restoring lives! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you! " And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another comforting Counselor like me, the Spirit of Truth, to be with you forever." (John 14:16) Complete Jewish Bible where there is an imbalance in our heart's attitude when we are before God or for example serving a client - there is a great problem! God is interested in your heart and your attitude when you are VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
serving that client as much as He is interested in your heart and attitude when you are having fellowship with Him. You cannot lie to a client and think "O! That is a little white lie necessary in this industry, to get the business going" and then go before God in prayer or fellowship and pretend nothing happened! Does the time you spend before God mirror the way you live your life on a daily basis? When we come before God we speak His word to Him - we speak words of "life" and lift people up in prayer. We are supposed to then go around living our lives in like manner; speaking words of faith, victory, love, life and blessings. The same way we do not gossip about others in the presence of God or back-bite or think evil of others or talk another down. This is the same way we are to live our lives when we have left the "place of prayer". For many are pulled back due to their own conduct. Living a double-standard lifestyle. Galatians 6:7 "Do not be deceived God cannot be mocked, a man reaps what he sows. Be careful therefore what seeds you go around sowing. Be true to yourself and then to others. Living a double-standard lifestyle is doing more damage to the soul that lives like that. Whatever you can say or do while you are in God's presence, let that be the standard by which you live your life. Each one of us is a work-in-progress, we are being built up in character, and no one is there yet. God is always working in us, so don't feel discouraged - but, be willing to embrace God's help in shaping and molding you into that Christ-like version of yourself that pleases Him. All of these ties in with God's word of promise for us this year Isaiah 1:19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land; (Isaiah 1:19) - Complete Jewish Bible. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE -
Vital Youth 2012 Fashion trends could be considered a blast from the past for some. Garments from the 40's, 60's and 70's were all re-introduced and adjusted to fit the modern day wearer. The most popular styles this season being Leather, chunky jewellery, studs the Midi skirts and dresses and heavily patterned attires. Footwear has become more outrageous since the 1940's. With creepers and studded moonwalk heels becoming more general, wearing a pair of plain black flats would be considered outdated to say the least. However, it is free to say that if your mother wore hippy shoes back in the 70's wearing them today would be totally acceptable.
To get this Sophiticated look you can find the following products from these stores:
To get this more youthful, outgoing look you can find these items at the following stores:
Top shop - Pencil Skirt River Island - peplum top and Bangle H&M Shoes Blazer from Dorothy Perkins
Top shop - for the jacket, double ring and leggings Schuh or Office - for the Dr Marten boots Newlook - for the plain white vest Asos - for the necklace
Courtnae Butcher, our Youth Fashion Writer is an 18 year old dedicated Christian who has just recently started writing for the magazine. She is also on her way to starting her career in Events Management. www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
Lande Sanusi Education and Qualifications: BSc, Mathematics & Computer Science. Project Management Certification. Profession: Engineer/Entrepreneur Engineer/Entrepreneur What are your future plans: Build my company and brand to be recognizable around the world as an organization that positively fosters the culture of Africa in today's young generation. What are you passionate about? My Children! Watching them grow is an incredible inspiration to me and I'm passionate about anything that will opportune me to work and have fun with my kids. www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
STYLE SPLASH!
HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS
Bag www.topshop.com
Looking to get away for a weekend break? We have pulled together the perfect weekend getaway essentials for you, that will sure keep you looking stylish and sophisticated in the latest SS13 trends. For this look we have gone for a long Tri-colour chiffon gown, in this seasons' sporty trend and styled it, with statement accessories. This dress is perfect for all body types, the clever use of colours is flattering from the upper part of the body to the lower part of the body. Whilst we have gone for a glamourous couture look, we have kept other accessories neutral. Have fun on your holiday and stay chic :)
Add a touch of Africa to your living space with these cushions from Afrocessories. Bespoke Handmade Accessories www.afrocessories.com I love the traditional style cushions made from African print fabric. So whether you are reminiscing over your trip to Africa or looking forward to one, let them light up your home and keep you comfy! - VW Lara Mfon. www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
REAL ESTATE REALITIES
If you are a woman, as I expect you are likely to be if you are reading this, then consider yourself extremely fortunate to be living in the 21st Century and in a developed country. However, there also those women who are also reading this right now but are living in those developing countries that still have impediments to the notion of gender equality in the realm of Property Rights even in the 21st Century. Property Rights include the legal right to acquire, own, sell and transfer property, collect and keep rent, enter into contracts, bring lawsuits and actually keep your own wages. Historically a woman's property was not always under her control but under the control of her father and if she was married under the control of her husband. Lucky hubby! Colonial right? In those times the law generally followed the legal dictates of the motherland, which for countries like the United States, France and Spain was England. Soon thereafter in the 18th Century, States had gradually started giving women limited property rights such as when a Judge would call a wife into chambers to confirm if she indeed approved of the sale of the property that was hitherto in the control of her VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
husband. The Married Women's Act, New York, 1848, further expanded the property rights of women and ultimately formed the basis upon which most states subsequently legislated for the benefit of women's property rights. Due credit must be given to numerous petitions particularly the notable address of Elizabeth Cady Stanton to the legislature on the subject in 1854. Across the ocean in England, the Married Women's Property Act (1870) enabled married women to have some rights over personal property such as income earned apart from their husband. They were also given the right to control the rent over their real property and actually retain as much as 200 Pounds Sterling from sums they inherited, the rest would be under the control of her husband. Lucky hubby again! Just about 20 years after this milestone development, the long term campaign by members of the Married Women's Property Committee, spearheaded by well-respected women such as Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon (1827-91) and Elizabeth Wolstenholme (1834-1913) paid off and gave way to greater civil liberties for women, particularly the Married Women's Act, in 1882, which recognised husbands and wives as two separate legal entities and consequently extended the law to allow wives to retain full ownership of any property they were entitled to before and after marriage, the fruits of 27 years of campaigning. Persistence! Persistence! In comparison, a few African countries have actually taken legislative steps to assure that women have equal access to land and property as men. Those that have some legislation in place include countries like Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Mozambique, Niger, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Although Ethiopia and Eritrea don't have specific legislation in place, there are no impediments for women to own land. Botswana and Namibia are currently amending the relevant laws, whilst women in Kenya still have limited access to land. The good news is there is now growing consensus that the right to acquire and inherit property is a basic human right equally applicable to men and women. Traditional legal systems and societal norms and in some jurisdictions formal law - including customary and religious laws still deny women the right to inherit and acquire property, especially in countries where Sharia Law applies. Since some major world conferences like Habitat II in 1996 and other UN associated meetings, some countries in the developing world have actually legislated explicitly recognizing women's rights in property. However, even in developed and developing countries where legislation is already in place, unless and until the social and cultural attitudes of both men and women are transformed, particularly in those countries where traditional practices still prevail, sustaining the social and legal progress made will require the involvement of each every and one, especially the women who are ultimately the final beneficiaries. No matter where you live in the world today as a single, married or widowed woman, you can find a platform around you where your voice can make a difference in our collective battle against inequity and inequalities.
Vital Woman
M
ost of us say that we live by faith, but do we really? We all have seen others (including ourselves) claim to live and die by it, but we still don't “overcome”, we “undercome”. We aren't high achievers, we are low achievers. Why is that? Frequently our actions don't dictate the faith that we claim to ride on. Mountain moving faith does not mean just standing at a cliff and looking down, or sit on the edge of it. Mountain moving faith requires the ability to not fear and jump off that cliff! Mountain moving faith is not merely touching your toes in the water. Mountain moving faith is faith that dares to step into deep water. How do we begin to establish mountain moving faith in your life as a normalcy? It comes from Visioning, Believing, Beginning, Waiting, and Affirming. *Visioning – What do you see for your future that is not indicative of your present? Understand this- your faith will begin with a vision. Your vision is the spark to your future reality. If you don't have a vision, then you don't have anything to aim for. Ask God to give you clarity to what things you would like to see come to pass. Once He gives it to you, don't doubt or second guess it, especially if it is something huge or beyond your scope of reasoning. Imagine that you and God are partners. He came up with the creative idea and WILL provide the funding; you just have to implement it. *Believing – Believe what you have been shown! See it in full manifestation! You have to believe it in order to be put into a position to receive it! Don't wear the “Oh Ye of little faith” banner across your heart. * Hungering – There should be hunger
Life Coaching pai ns that won't subside when you trust and believe for the heavens to shake ctatio on your behalf! You believe that no matter E x p e n opens the door to manifestation! what, no matter how, no matter when, that it shall come to pass. When God * Declaring – Faith is making a declaration paints a detailed mental picture of your of the success before it appears and is dream, chew on it. Great desire is fueled achieved! Mountain moving faith boldly by deep passion and great determination! declares success, and makes the *Beginning - Plan, organize, and work atmosphere conducive to receiving it! until you see it. Don't just hold on and Declarations speak life into the vision, believe, work it until you achieve. All God heighten the sense of expectancy, and is waiting on is for you to take a step generate great enthusiasm! towards the reality, and He will fill in the I admonish you to walk in mountain moving faith. Watch God move on your gaps where it is needed! behalf mightily! *Waiting – As you are, believe and act, realize that everything may not move in warp speed. This is the time NOT to get discouraged, but to hold on to the promise that has been imbedded in your spirit! Allow the art of patience to kick in, and continue to move forward. Great patience creates great bounce b a c k a b i l i t y ! Tr u e s u c c e s s overcomes the slow times, the setbacks, and the disruptions that may come. Bridget Washington is a highly empowered life coach, *Expecting - The expectation of Writer, and Speaker whose razor sharp direction, positive success creates a no matter what mental infiltration, and Godly edification will have you attitude within. By any means moving from the edge of the ordinary and plunging into necessary becomes your mantra. the extraordinary life that God has ordained for you. She is the founder of Fruition Mission, a faith inspired There is a level of confidence that company that is devoted to “Coaching Your Holistic Needs, cannot be shattered when we are Inspiring You to Wildly Succeed”. She resides in Metro on high expectation alert! When Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and son. you expect a thing to come to pass, For more information please visit then nothing can hold back! www.fruitionmission.com . www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
Vital T
Hawaii / In this edition of Vital Travel, Essie Rewane shares with us one of her favourite holiday spots. Explore some of Hawaii as you read through this article.
HAWAII/WAIKIKI A taste of paradise, great smell of Hawaiian flowers round your neck as you step into haven, utopia and indeed paradise on earth. This lovely country located about 2500 miles west-southwest of the mainland U.S.A., is known as Hawaii. It is about a five hour flight from California. We visited Oahu one of the many islands in Hawaii, home of the Waikiki beach, Diamond Head, Pearl harbour and situated in the city and county of Honolulu. I had heard so much about Hawaii, watched the city on television, seen pictures but the real deal was just out of this world! Excitement filled our souls and spirits as the plane VITAL WOMAN www.avitalwoman.com
flew over the city and began to decrease in altitude. Touch down and out of the plane we could literally feel the breath of fresh flowery air! We went into the taxi draped with Hawaiian flowers and headed for the Sheraton hotel, the gateway to Waikiki beach - Hawaii's favourite playground. I have stayed in a number of Sheraton hotels, but not one that actually sits on the famous Waikiki beach Honolulu. Right from the door step, the hotel and its facilities exhibits a sense of sophistication. Waikiki is well known to be Hawaii's centre of the tourist industry. There were so many fantastic attractions and I would honestly fill up five pages to share my experience, so I have decided to highlight the precious days of our trip. The Diamond head crater, just a few miles from the Wakiki beach is a sight that cannot be compared with any other. It is
Travel
/ Waikiki the most popular volcanic crater in the world and the main land mark of Hawaii. To get to the Crater we had to drive up the eastern side of the rock and through the tunnel. There are two sets of stairs which leads to the top of the hill on the Diamond head crater and the view from the top is amazing and awesome! A complete view of Wakiki became clearly visible from the height!Without a doubt, I can confidently say that this has been my most memorable experience! We breezed into the IOLANI palace for a proper sightseeing historic attraction. This palace was built in 1882. You will hear firsthand about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and its modern technology in the 18th century. The palace structure from the outside is breath-taking and even more so the interior pats of the palace. The entire palace is totally magnificent.
W e needed to do some shopping so we visited the international market place. We did not only get bargains and lots of quality jewellery, Pearls, Coral beads including genuine gold, but so much fun and entertainment! The natives really know how to pamper tourists. Be prepared to spend at least 2-3 hours at the market place and still wanting more. There is a whole lot more to see such as the pearl harbour, wet n' wild and not to mention the breath-taking restaurants! The smell of the food a mile from the place is just out of this world! No wonder Hawaii is themed a country of paradise. Article by Essie Rewane, 2013 Š Please contact us via email at info@avitalwoman.com if you would also like to share some of your beautiful holiday memories with us.
www.avitalwoman.com
VITAL WOMAN
VITAL WOMAN'S 5th Exhibition
Workshop and Exhibition Taking Place On
Jewellery Making Workshop
Saturday 15 June 2013. At Oxley Park Community Centre Redgrave Drive Milton Keynes MK4 4TA.
Business Workshop
All workshops will run from 12 noon till 5pm. Exhibition and Networking will end at 8pm. To Book a table in our Exhibition area, to book a spot in our Networking area or to book your space on any one of our workshops;
Please Call: 0774 599 7624 E-mail: info@avitalwoman.com Free Entry To All
Make-up Workshop
Bag Making Workshop