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5 Women Who Have Thrived in Male-Dominated Fields and What We Can Learn from Them.

Rachel E
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5 Women Who Have Thrived in Male-Dominated Fields and What We Can Learn from Them.

#womenshistorymonth

Some industries have long been dominated by men, making it challenging for women to break through. Fields such as aviation, technology, oil & gas, law enforcement, etc, are often considered male-dominated, yet many women have successfully paved the way, proving that talent and determination know no gender.

Through sheer determination, and resilience, these women have proven that limits only exist in the mind. They have shattered ceilings, and excelled in their own rights.

As we commemorate Women’s History Month, let us take a look at a few of them in this article.

Marie Salomea Skłodowska-Curie– Research & Science.

Polish-French Marie Curie lived between November 1867-July1934. She was the first woman to win a Nobel prize and remains the only person to receive Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields—Physics and Chemistry. At a time when women were largely excluded from scientific research, Curie’s groundbreaking discovery of polonium and radium championed her research on radioactivity, which ultimately changed the world.

Despite facing gender bias and institutional barriers, Curie refused the word “no”. She gave everything to her research, proving that perseverance and passion can push past any obstacle.

Amelia Mary Earhart– Aviation.

Amelia Mary Earhart is recorded to have lived a bold life. She was an author, women’s rights activist, but is mostly recognized for being the first woman to complete a solo non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean.
Asides being recognized as one of America’s most famous pilots, Amelia was also an enigma. There is no record of her death, because she is said to have disappeared while flying over the Pacific in July 1937.

Nevertheless, her bold spirit and fearless journey became a powerful symbol of courage and opportunity, inspiring generations of women to pursue careers in aviation and other fields.

Serena Williams- Sports

Serena Williams is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in history. Born in 1981 in Saginaw, Michigan, she began playing tennis at an early age under the guidance of her father, Richard Williams. With her powerful playing style and unmatched determination, she rose to the top of a sport where men traditionally received more visibility, prize money, and recognition. Despite facing criticism, adversity, and setbacks throughout her career, Williams remained focused and resilient, ultimately securing 23 Grand Slam singles titles—one of the highest achievements in the sport’s history.

Serena’s journey teaches us that with hard work, determination, and self-belief, we can excel in any competitive environment.

Katherine Johnson- STEM (Mathematics & Space Exploration)

Katherine Johnson a brilliant mathematician, made groundbreaking contributions to NASA’s space missions, including calculating the trajectories for John Glenn’s historic 1962 orbital flight—the first by an American astronaut. Katherine lived between 1918-2020, displaying exceptional mathematical abilities from a young age and overcame racial and gender barriers to work at NASA. Her precise calculations were vital in ensuring astronaut safety and mission success, yet her contributions remained unrecognized for years. Her legacy now serves as an inspiration for women and minorities in STEM fields.

Katherine Johnson’s life teach that mastering your craft and striving for excellence can break down barriers and overcome bias. Her story serves as a reminder that true expertise commands recognition, paving the way for future opportunities.

Indra Nooyi- Corporate Leadership

Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, is a trailblazing business leader known for her strategic vision and transformative leadership. Born in India in 1955, she earned an MBA from Yale University before rising through the corporate ranks. As PepsiCo’s CEO from 2006 to 2018, Nooyi drove significant revenue growth, championed sustainability initiatives, and steered the company toward healthier product offerings. Her ability to navigate the competitive corporate landscape with intelligence, resilience, and innovation cemented her legacy as one of the most influential women in business.

Nooyi’s success reminds us that women can rise to the top in business by embracing change and making bold decisions.

In Conclusion

Advancing in any career field requires adaptability and forward-thinking. These five women are proofs that gender should never be a barrier to success. Whether in science, aviation, business, sports, or space exploration, their stories inspire us to dream big, work hard, and break barriers.

If you’re looking to thrive in any male-dominated field or office, remember:

  • Work hard, stay resilient, and believe in yourself.
  • Stay curious and committed to learning.
  • Take risks and embrace challenges.
  • Lead with confidence and strategic vision.

BRINGING ART TO LIFE: Ejiro Fenegal

Rachel E
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BRINGING ART TO LIFE: Ejiro Fenegal

#womenshistorymonth #internationalwomensday

In a world where women continue to push boundaries and redefine success, sculptor Ejiro Fenegal stands out as a remarkable figure worth celebrating.

Born in 1991 in Ughelli, Delta State, Nigeria, Fenegal’s art journey  began at the School of Arts, Design, and Printing at Yaba College of Technology, where she earned a Higher National Diploma in Sculpture in 2019. 

Working from her Lagos studio, Ejiro meticulously crafts figurative sculptures that delve into the complexities of the human condition. Her creative process involves modeling with clay, followed by molding and casting using materials like resin and marble dust. She then applies vibrant polychromatic patinas to accentuate the expressive features of her subjects. 

Fenegal’s artwork primarily focuses on depicting female figures, presenting women as strong and beautiful symbols. She begins by sculpting her subjects in clay, then creates molds and casts them using materials like resin, marble dust, and stone particles. To enhance the expressive details of her subjects, she finishes them with polychromatic patinas.

Ejiro’s dedication to her craft has led to notable projects, including the production of the Zorya Statue at the Lagoon Restaurant in Lagos (2020) and a collaborative sculpture on combat soldiers with sculptor Ato Arinze, commissioned by the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja (2022). 

Her works, such as “Before You Know Me” (2023) and “Sound of Silence” (2023), reflect her commitment to exploring the depths of human emotions and experiences. Fenegal has also showcased her sculptures at prestigious international art fairs across both America and Africa, including Art X Lagos in November 2023. 

Through her art, Fenegal delves into the complexities of the human condition, exploring themes characterized by fear, doubt, and hate, while simultaneously celebrating the resilience and beauty inherent in the female form.

We applaud her dedication and unique perspective as she continues to contribute significantly to contemporary African art.

What You Need To Know About Women’s History Month.

Rachel E
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What You Need To Know About Women’s History Month.

It’s Women’s History Month!

Every year, the entire 31 days in March are dedicated to recognizing the accomplishments, contributions, and exploits of women throughout history.

This month-long observance is now widely commemorated across the globe, complementing The International Women’s Day, which is specially marked on March 8th.  

Women’s History Month gives us the opportunity to reflect on the indisputable achievements of women who made profound impact in different fields, and fought selflessly for others. From business owners, to CEOs, to scientists, to policy innovators, to inventors, to housewives, to missionaries, we’re reminded of their sacrifices and stories. 

In addition to reflecting on the past, Women’s History Month inspires us to consider both the present and the future. By emphasizing on the struggles and successes of women, young girls are inspired to dream big and pursue change with resilience. 

To further expand on the topic, here are five lesser-known facts about Women’s History Month:

Origin Story

Women’s History Month actually started as Women’s History Week. The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the status of women, planned a week long celebration in Santa Rosa, California. This was done in 1978, when the celebration was made to coincide with March 8th (International Women’s Day). 

Then, between 1980 and 1995, it was officially enacted into law that the entire month of March would be designated as “Women’s History Month.”

A New Theme Each Year

Each year, a theme is chosen by the National Women’s History Alliance, to provide focus and steer conversations. Each theme spotlights the contributions of women in different fields such as Politics, Education, Healthcare, and so on. This year, the theme is “Moving Forward Together”; Women Educating & Inspiring Generations. 

This year’s theme aims to celebrate women who have dedicated their lives to building careers in education and mentorship. These women have played a crucial role in shaping the future by sharing their knowledge and experience. In doing so, they have provided valuable guidance and structure for the younger generation.

Different Dates In Different Countries

Although Women’s History Month has become universally accepted, it is not observed in the same month, by all nations of the world.
While the UK, US, Australia, Russia, Nigeria, etc, choose March, South Africa celebrates hers in August, and Canada goes with October. 

Colors For International Women’s Day

Every year on March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day. It is a day in the month of March that is specially earmarked to honor women, and campaign for pressing issues.

The universally accepted colors for International Women’s Day, are purple, green, and white. Purple represents justice, dignity, and loyalty to the cause, while green symbolizes hope and white stands for purity.

The colors were first used by the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK back in 1908.

Pioneer Of It All

Lastly, historical records indicate that the concept of International Women’s Day was first proposed by German activist Clara Zetkin. She, along with other feminists of her time, believed that women deserved a day to honor their struggles. And also raise awareness about the challenges women face worldwide. 

Today, let us remember that a movement began to speak up against women’s oppression and inequality. This movement encourages women to take a more active role in creating change and to speak out about unacceptable conditions.

Women’s History Month allows us to remember and honor women who have made significant contributions to our communities and left their mark on history.

Celebrate a woman you admire today. 

Find out how you can be a part of International Women’s Day here.

Danielle McKinney: A Leading Lady Of Art

Rachel E
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Danielle McKinney: A Leading Lady Of Art

Art is all around us, in animate and inanimate things. For some people spotting the artistic beauty in even the mundane, isn’t something that comes naturally. But for Danielle Mckinney, she was born to lead in the world of Contemporary Art.

In a society where women’s voices are often muffled, Danielle McKinney’s work speaks boldly, tilting more towards introspective, and unapologetically feminine paintings. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, her story serves as a powerful reminder of how embracing one’s authentici self can transform not just a career but an entire art form. 

Little Beginnings: From Camera To Canvas

Born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama, USA, Danielle has always had the support of her family. After her mother gifted her an old Nikon camera, and her mum introduced her to painting, from as young as 15,  her curiosity for the arts was ignited. 

Pursuing a BFA from The Atlanta College Of Art, and an MFA from Parsons School Of Design, also helped hone her craft. She developed an eye for composition, light, and storytelling—skills that would later become the basis of her career as a Visual Artist. For years, McKinney mastered her craft as a photographer, exploring the depths of humanity and identity through her lens. But it wasn’t until 2020, at the peak of the COVID-19 lockdown, did her career take a monumental shift. With people holed up in their homes, and no opportunity for photography, she found her passion for painting. 

This shift was smooth as she had already built a photographer’s precision and a storyteller’s heart. It was also a powerful evolution in her ability to express the interior lives of her subjects—primarily Black women depicted in moments of solitude and self-reflection. 

Danielle Mckinney, Hold your Breath, 2024
Danielle’s ‘Hold your Breath’, 2024.
Photo Credit: Pierre Le Hors.

Danielle Mckinney, Read the Room, 2024
Danielle’s ‘Read The Room’, 2024.

Her Art-Her Message

For Mckinney, painting is much more than a medium—it’s an avenue for reinventing black feminine representation. Her works are Afro-centric, celebrating the strength, complexity, and beauty of women, with zero need for external validation. This focus resonates with a generation of art lovers and collectors, hungry for authentic and diverse narratives. 

Danielle’s paintings are a reflection of her personal life. In a recent interview she shared that her subjects are often portrayed in contemplative poses, enjoying solitude, even amitds activities. These depictions invite viewers into a world that is at once personal and universal.

Leading In The Art World

Since her shift to painting, Danielle McKinney’s rise has been meteoric. Her first solo exhibition, “Smoke and Mirrors,” received critical acclaim, with collectors and curators alike drawn to her masterful use of color and her ability to convey complex emotions. She has also had her work showcased in prestigious galleries, including Marianne Boesky Gallery in New York, solidifying her status as a rising sensation in the art world. 

In 2022, Mckinney was listed among the most influential contemporary artists to watch, a recognition that highlighted not just her talent but also her impact on expanding the narratives available to Black women in art. By presenting her subjects in moments of introspection and power, McKinney challenges the historical underrepresentation of Black women in portraiture and reframes the conversation around identity and autonomy. 

In honor of Women’s History Month, we celebrate countless women, who like Danielle McKinney are succeeding in unconventional industries and careers.

Mary Seats: The Self-Made Mogul Who Turned $300 Into a Multi-Million Dollar Empire

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Mary Seats: The Self-Made Mogul Who Turned $300 Into a Multi-Million Dollar Empire

Success in entrepreneurship isn’t about where you start – it’s about resilience, vision, and the ability to rise after every fall. Few people embody this spirit as powerfully as Mary Seats, also known as Mz. Skittlez. From launching a fashion brand with just $300 to becoming a branding powerhouse, her journey is a masterclass in determination and strategic growth.

Mary Seats was not born into wealth, but she was born with ambition. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, she always had an eye for fashion and branding. From a young age, she showcased her creativity by selling clothes for dolls, unknowingly foreshadowing her future as a fashion mogul. But dreams are rarely met with instant success. Mary had to work her way up, often facing skepticism from those who couldn’t see the vision she had for herself. However, she never let doubt define her path.

Her first major opportunity came when she worked as an assistant stylist for an international music tour. This experience exposed her to the fashion and entertainment industries and allowed her to build relationships with celebrities like Missy Elliott, Da Brat, and Lil’ Kim. These connections would later prove instrumental in growing her brand.

Beyond her entrepreneurial journey, Mary’s personal life has also played a significant role in shaping who she is today. She is married to Tony Seats, an entrepreneur who shares her vision for success. Having a partner who understands the highs and lows of business has been a major support system for her. Mary has often spoken about the importance of surrounding yourself with people who uplift you. she once said:

“When you have a dream, you need a team – whether it’s in business or in life. You need people who see the vision, even when it’s not yet clear“

In 2011, with only $300 in her pocket, Mary took a bold leap into the fashion industry and launched Cupcake Mafia, a streetwear brand designed for women who exuded confidence and empowerment. She didn’t have investors or a large team – just creativity, relentless hustle, and a keen understanding of branding.

What made Cupcake Mafia stand out was its unique storytelling and aesthetic. Mary leveraged social media, guerrilla marketing tactics, and her celebrity connections to turn the brand into a global phenomenon. Within a few years, Cupcake Mafia was being sold in over 800 stores across 69 countries.

Reflecting on her early days, She said:

“I wasn’t waiting for a big investor. I built this with what I had. Too many people wait for permission to start – just start”

Just as Cupcake Mafia was reaching new heights, Mary faced her biggest challenge yet. After partnering with an investment firm to scale the business, she was unexpectedly fired from her own company. The brand she had built from the ground up was now out of her control. For many, this would have been the end of the road. But for Mz. Skittlez, it was just another chapter. She fought back, refusing to let her dream be taken from her. With unwavering determination, she repurchased Cupcake Mafia for $60,000 – proving that no setback was too big to overcome.

Image Credit: Refinery 29

Rather than dwelling on her loss, Mz. Skittlez saw an opportunity. She realized that her greatest strength wasn’t just designing clothes – it was branding, marketing, and creating experiences that made people connect with products. In 2015, she launched The Icing Agency, a branding and marketing firm designed to help businesses, particularly female entrepreneurs, build and scale their brands. Her expertise in branding quickly attracted major clients, and her agency became a sought-after name in the industry.

Mz. Skittlez didn’t stop at marketing. Seeing a gap in resources for female entrepreneurs, she founded The Bakery CoWork, a co-working space designed to foster a community for women in business.

“I needed support when I was coming up. I needed community. Now, I’m creating spaces where other women don’t have to feel like they’re doing this alone “

she shared.

Today, Mary Seats is not just a businesswoman – she’s a mentor, speaker, author, and role model for countless entrepreneurs looking to build their own success stories.

For any aspiring entrepreneur reading this: Don’t wait. Don’t doubt. Just start. As Mz. Skittlez herself said:

“You are the brand. You are the business. Act like it”

Sources: Forbes, Billion Dollar Moves, Black Enterprise

Do We Really Need a Crisis to Change? How Georgia Byrd Transformed Adversity into 5 Life Lessons

Seun Tayo-Balogun
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Do We Really Need a Crisis to Change? How Georgia Byrd Transformed Adversity into 5 Life Lessons

I recently saw Last Holiday, and I can tell you it’s more than just a movie – it’s a celebration of life. In the film, Georgia Byrd (Queen Latifah) is confronted with a crisis when a misdiagnosis leads her to believe she has only a short time left to live. Instead of succumbing to despair, she seizes the moment, reclaiming her life and embracing every opportunity to live on her own terms. Her journey reminds us that we don’t have to wait for a crisis to force change; we can choose transformation every day by:

Appreciating the Little Things:
Georgia’s genuine love for a good meal is infectious – so much so that Chef Didier adored her. Savoring everyday pleasures, like a delicious meal, helps build a foundation of gratitude and mindfulness.

Not Worrying About What Others Think:
Whether it was the unsolicited opinions from her company’s owner or judgments from strangers, Georgia refused to let others dictate her choices. Her fearless attitude shows us that when we let go of the need for external validation, we’re free to pursue what truly matters.

Making the Most of Every Moment:
Georgia dove headfirst into experiences that brought her joy: dressing impeccably, taking a thrilling helicopter ride, upgrading to the best hotel room when plans fell through, base jumping, and even skiing despite having no idea what she was doing, yet she ended up on the cover of a ski magazine! And let’s not forget her casino win: the $100,000 she clinched gave her the means to start her very own restaurant. Every moment became an opportunity for adventure and transformation.

Appreciating Your Loved Ones:
Amid all her newfound adventures, Georgia deepened her connections. Her candid, unapologetic way of speaking her truth won everyone over – from the hotel staff and even guests like the charming congressman and the senator, to the culinary genius of Chef Didier. And in a delightful twist of fate, she found love with her shy co-worker, Sean Matthews (played by LL Cool J), who became the love of her life.

Following Your Dreams and Passions:
Perhaps the most inspiring lesson of all is that Georgia didn’t allow a dire diagnosis to hold her back. She pursued her dreams relentlessly, proving that growth and fulfillment come when we set aside our fears and step out of our comfort zones.

In her words:

Never in my life did I think I would end up in such a beautiful place, doing so many incredible things. So, I’m sorry if I was maybe a little bit too honest with you. But I wasted too much of my life being quiet.

Georgia Byrd, Last Holiday

In the end, when Georgia discovered that the diagnosis was wrong, it didn’t matter – because she had already lived a life overflowing with passion, joy, and unforgettable experiences.

Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Live Boldly Like Georgia Byrd in ‘Last Holiday’

9 Ways to Teach Your Children Entrepreneurship Skills Early in Life

Seun Tayo-Balogun
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9 Ways to Teach Your Children Entrepreneurship Skills Early in Life

Did you know that the skills and values your children learn when they’re young will stick with them for life? It’s true – about 90% of what they pick up before they hit their teenage years stays with them well into adulthood. So, why not start teaching them entrepreneurial skills while they’re young? You don’t need to wait until they’re in college to talk about business.

Here are 9 practical and heartwarming ways to introduce them to the world of entrepreneurship:

  1. Encourage Creative Thinking
    Entrepreneurs are creative problem-solvers. Encourage your children to brainstorm with you and come up with their own ideas. You can provide them with small challenges to solve, like creating a fun project, designing a simple business idea, or even thinking of a new product. This nurtures their problem-solving abilities and helps them build a foundation for entrepreneurial thinking.
  2. Include Them in Decision-Making
    Kids love to feel involved, and it’s a great way to teach them about responsibility. When making simple business decisions – like choosing a product to sell or deciding on a marketing strategy or even what post to share – ask for their input. One time, my daughter helped me pick out new styles for our activewear launch, and we made the decision together to go with a design she suggested. Her face lit up when those designs sold out first!
  3. Teach Them the Value of Money
    One of the core principles of entrepreneurship is understanding the value of money. Start teaching your children about budgeting, saving, and how money flows in a business. If possible, you could set up a small “business” for them, where they earn play money through tasks and then spend or save it. This helps them grasp the concept of money management early on.
  4. Let Them Try Small Responsibilities
    When kids take on small responsibilities, they get a taste of what it’s like to run a business. Let them help out with simple tasks – whether it’s organizing supplies, answering a customer’s question, or packing orders. My daughter loves to help me with responding to customer questions over the phone. It’s a small thing, but it makes her feel like she’s part of the team, and it teaches her the importance of attention to detail.
  5. Read Entrepreneurial Books Together
    There are many children’s books that focus on entrepreneurship, business skills, and leadership. Choose books that are fun and engaging, and read them together with your children. This will introduce them to key concepts such as risk-taking, innovation, and perseverance while helping them relate the lessons to their own lives.
  6. Teach Them About Failure and Resilience
    Entrepreneurship often involves taking risks, and sometimes those risks don’t pan out as expected. Teach your children that failure is a part of the process and is an opportunity to learn. Share stories of entrepreneurs who faced setbacks and how they bounced back. It’s okay to share personal stories too. This will help your children understand the value of persistence and resilience in the face of challenges.
  7. Encourage Independence
    The more your child feels like they can do things on their own, the more confident they’ll become. Encourage them to take on small projects and manage them from start to finish. Allow them to make decisions, manage tasks, and deal with the consequences of their actions. This instills confidence and teaches them that they can control their destiny.
  8. Teach Time Management
    Successful entrepreneurs are masters of managing their time, and this is a skill kids can start learning early. Help them create a schedule for their daily tasks or set goals together. This helps them develop the discipline required for success in both business and life.
  9. Promote a Growth Mindset
    The best entrepreneurs know that challenges are simply opportunities to grow. Teach your children to embrace a growth mindset – encourage them to see every challenge as a chance to learn something new. When they encounter challenges, remind them that learning and growth happen through perseverance and continuous improvement. This mindset will help them face entrepreneurial obstacles with optimism and a willingness to learn from each experience.

By teaching these valuable entrepreneurial skills early, you’re giving your children a head start on becoming resilient, independent, and creative thinkers. More than just business skills, these lessons will help them grow into confident, capable individuals who understand the power of hard work, perseverance, and believing in themselves. However, it’s important to remember that kids often hate being lectured all the time or having every moment turned into a teaching moment. They just want to enjoy your presence, have fun, and learn naturally through experience. So, balancing the lessons with moments of just being together and sharing simple joys is key. Let them see entrepreneurship as an exciting adventure, not a constant lesson, and they’ll embrace the journey with enthusiasm!

Jennifer Lopez’s Ageless Secrets: 5 Steps To Youthful Glow At All Age

Grace Joshua
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Jennifer Lopez’s Ageless Secrets: 5 Steps To Youthful Glow At All Age

Ever wondered how Jennifer Lopez, at 55, maintains her youthful glow and enviable physique? The answer lies in her dedication to fitness, mindful eating, and self-care. While her age-defying beauty is often discussed, it’s her commitment to health and vitality that keeps her looking as radiant as ever. There are high chances to be a replicant of her looks by adjusting to Lopez’s Ageless Secrets. In this guide, we reveal how you can follow in her footsteps to unlock your own vitality and youthful glow with a simple 5-step plan.

Unlock Lopez’s 5 Steps to Youthful Glow at Any Age

Step 1. Choose Exercises That Energize Your Body Jennifer Lopez’s workout routine is a dynamic mix of cardio, strength training, and dance. Whether it’s high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or yoga, find what motivates you. The goal is not just to get fit, but to feel vibrant, energized, and youthful.

Step 2. Embrace a Wholesome Diet to Nourish Your Skin and Body Lopez credits much of her radiance to her balanced diet, rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. A diet filled with nutrient-dense foods helps support healthy skin, energy levels, and overall vitality. Avoid processed foods and focus on meals that fuel both your body and your skin.

Step 3. Hydrate for a Fresh, Dewy Glow Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain youthful skin. Jennifer Lopez drinks plenty of water throughout the day, and you should too. Water helps keep your skin supple and flushes out toxins, leaving you with a fresh, glowing complexion.

Jennifer Lopez Inspiring Health and Fitness

Step 4. Prioritize Sleep for Restorative Vitality While we often overlook the importance of sleep, Lopez makes sure to get enough rest every night. Sleep is crucial for cellular repair, reducing stress, and giving your body the energy it needs to shine. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep for optimal health and youthful vitality.

Step 5. Mindset and Consistency: Your Path to Lasting Youth It’s not just about what you do it’s about how consistently you do it. Lopez’s longevity in fitness and wellness is a result of her mindset: she believes in loving yourself and making self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. As she famously says, “You have to love yourself first. Take care of yourself, eat right, and exercise. You owe it to yourself to be the best version of you.” It’s about making those small, healthy choices every day. Age is just a number when you prioritize your health and well-being.

Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, inspiring Ageless Glow

Jennifer Lopez proves that it’s never too late to start your journey to vitality. At 55, she’s showing the world that youthfulness is a reflection of inner health. By incorporating these five simple steps into your life, you too can unlock a radiant, youthful glow and experience the vitality that comes with self-care, healthy living, and consistency.

Are you ready to embrace your own ageless beauty? Start today by making small changes and watch as your confidence and radiance flourish. Share your progress with us and let us know how you’re embracing the path to vitality. Click here to view the 5 steps to youthful glow.

3 Inspirational Moments from Jade Osiberu’s Christmas in Lagos

Seun Tayo-Balogun
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3 Inspirational Moments from Jade Osiberu’s Christmas in Lagos

A few days ago, I watched Christmas in Lagos by Jade Osiberu, and I couldn’t help but reflect on these three powerful moments that stood out to me:

Ajani’s Insight
Ajani, (Ladipo Eso, Ladipoe), is the quintessential Lagos hustler – guitar boy by night, delivery guy by day. When he met Ivie (Rayxia Ojo), a writer struggling with self-doubt, he asked her:

"Do you want to break your own heart before the world has a chance to?"

This line hit hard. It’s a reminder to stop self-sabotaging. The world already comes with its share of challenges; why add to them by being overly critical, doubtful, or unwilling to give ourselves a fair shot?

Fiyin’s Grandmother’s Wisdom
When Ivie complained to Fiyin (Teniola Aladese @theteniola) about her mom’s skepticism regarding her writing career, Fiyin shared something her grandmother always said:

"May we not let what we will eat stop us from becoming who we will be"

This profound statement is a call to resist letting immediate needs or short-term comforts derail long-term dreams or purpose. It reminds us to prioritize our vision and personal growth over momentary satisfaction.

Gbemi’s Realization
In a conversation with Zach (Richard Mofe-Damijo) her ex, who’s been divorced 3 times, and who once broke her heart), Gbemi (Shaffy Bello) expressed a poignant truth:

"The need to stop rehashing a relationship that could have been but never was. The idea of it is actually much better than the reality it could ever be"

This is a reminder to let go of the past – whether it’s relationships, missed opportunities, or unfulfilled dreams. Holding on to an illusion of “what could have been” can keep us stuck. Accepting reality and moving forward allows us to find true happiness and freedom.

I enjoyed the tracks from Adekunle Gold, Ayra Starr, Waje, and Esua’s (@esuamusic) soulful rendition of D’banj’s classic Fall in Love, beautifully produced by Cobhams Asuquo. The display of affluence, culture, food, and the enchanting Lagos Christmas scenery – especially the magical Ajose Adeogun – were beautiful additions. The choice of characters brought a unique charm and definitely added cheer to the festive season. That said, I would have loved to see a bit more intrigue and unexpected twists in the Christmas in Lagos storyline to make it even more captivating.

As an aside, watching Adekunle Gold’s stage performance in the movie brought back memories of King Sunny Ade’s (KSA) performances. Now, I’m not saying they’re on the same level (yet!), but it feels like Adekunle Gold’s trajectory might mirror the kind of cultural and emotional impact KSA had on us while growing up.

Have you seen Christmas in Lagos? What moments stood out to you?

Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian girl, receives $11.5 million to fund her innovative air filter design.

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Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian girl, receives $11.5 million to fund her innovative air filter design.

Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian-American student from Connecticut, has made significant strides in addressing a pressing issue in schools: the spread of airborne diseases. Inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, she designed a simple yet effective air filter that has garnered national attention and significant funding.

A Young Mind, A Big Solution

Tasked with creating a solution to enhance school safety during potential future pandemics, Eniola, a fifth-grader at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, turned her attention to the air we breathe. Her innovative air filter design is not only effective but also remarkably affordable.

The design is straightforward: a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard. This ingenious combination results in a unit that can be produced for approximately $60, making it a cost-effective alternative to commercial air purifiers.

Scientific Validation

Eniola’s design was rigorously tested with the support of scientists at the University of Connecticut (UConn). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed that the device can eliminate over 99% of airborne viruses, demonstrating its potential to significantly improve classroom safety.

Funding

The Connecticut State Bond Commission recently approved $11.5 million in funding to implement Eniola’s air filters in schools across the state. This funding is part of UConn’s SAFE-CT: Supplemental Air Filtration for Education Program, which aims to equip every public school classroom with these vital air purification systems.

Eniola’s vision extends beyond Connecticut. She aspires to see her air filters implemented in classrooms nationwide, believing that science holds the key to protecting children’s health. Her words resonate: “A lot of people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science.”

Eniola Shokunbi’s remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration to young people around the world. Her story underscores the power of innovation, the importance of scientific inquiry, and the potential for young minds to make a significant impact on the world.

Eniola Shokunbi Credit: Shoppe Black

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