thisday styles magazine (sundays) oct 20, 2019 please … · 2019-10-20 · she left a huge void in...
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THISDAY STYLES MAGAZINE (SUNDAYS) Oct 20, 2019
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L I F E O N T H E P I N K L A N ESURVIVORS
BREASTCANCER
AWARENESSMONTH
ADVOCATES &
THISDAY STYLEFASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
RUTH OSIME
EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI
EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR
STYLE CORRESPONDENT MOJISOLA ALLEN
STYLE CORRESPONDENT SAFINA MOHAMMED
SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG
CONTRIBUTORSRUKY SALAKO
JULIET ALUAYODEJI ROTINWA
PHOTOGRAPHERTY BELLO
DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION. CHUKS ONWUDINJO
08111847085
08111847086
08111847087
08116759745
07054965500
08077092196
Society
Since this is the month of October, it is only natural that we acknowledge what it represents...Breast Cancer Awareness month. Because of this,
we always try to showcase a cancer related cover featuring survivors or those helping to fight against it. This month we have both survivors and advocates for the Life In A Pink Lane campaign, orchestrated by jewelry designer, Gbenga Ayo Dada of Artsmith jewelry. He has not only brought attention to the cause of the campaign, he has also designed the jewelry worn by both survivors and advocates on this cover. The proceeds from the sales of this jewelry will go towards
funding for the breast awareness campaign programs. The stories of these survivors are there to give hope to the hopeless. To assure people
that cancer is not an automatic death sentence especially if caught early! Most importantly, this edition is to lessen and if possible, eradicate the fear
of the dreaded disease.For many, emotional and financial support also plays a big role in their path to recovery.
That said, it is inspiring to know that people do survive this ailment and things are not as bleak as perceived simply because the fear of it far outweighs the inspirational stories of survival. Where there is hope, there is chance. Where there is courage, there is success. Where there is faith, there is survival.
For those going through this, please hold on to these virtues. For those whose loved ones are going through this, remain positive. For those who have never gone through this and hope never to go through it, when you wake up every day, kneel down and just thank Him for blessing you with another new day.
FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
CONTENTFashion
FAREWELL BID TO VICTORIA ANEKE PG 4-5
70 HEARTY CHEERS FOR JOHN OBAYUWANA PG 6-7
PRETTY IN PINK PG 10-11
REAL MEN WEAR PINK PG 20-21
So, as all things turn Pink this month, we show our support by speaking to a group of survivors and advocates who have all come under the umbrella of the Life on the Pink Lane Campaign to not only enforce breast awareness but also provide succour for those living with the disease. KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR reports...
PHOTO CREDIT – GLINTZ PHOTOGRAPHY
BIYI & SOLA
ADESUWA GIWA-OSAGIE
For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted.
The late Victoria Aneke had a personality so strong, it would not be forgotten in a long time to come. Such was her charisma that she left a huge void in the lives of those she left behind. But it was reassuring for all that she is resting in a better place. At the ripe old age of 89, madam Victoria lived a life well worth emulating. She will be sorely missed and a befitting funeral was held in her honour at the Rock Cathedral House on the Rock. The service was well attended with a closing reception at Harbour Point event center.
FAREWELL BID TO VICTORIA ANEKE
NIYI ADEBAYO
DONALD DUKE
P H OTO K U N L E O G U N F U Y I
ATEDO PETERSIDE
AWELE & TONY ELUMELU ADA IBRAHIM-ALFA
OSCAR IBRU ONARI DUKE DOROTHY ATAKE ENIOLA BELLO HELEN PREST-AJAYI DUPE OLUSOLA & OSAYI ALILE SEGUN SENBANJO IFY NWAKWES
CASSANDRA OMAGEISIOMA EKWA DEBBIE OGHENENIMI AKINKUGBE OSKAR IBRUJOSEPH KESHIYEWANDE ZACCHEAUSNKEM NWADIKEUCHE NWOKEDIKENNEDY UZOKAGRACE OSIME ALBERT OKUMAGBAAIGBOJE AIG-IMOUKHUEDEHELEN OMINIABOHS
MALTINA OLADIPO BAKARE ANGELA OJO-OSAGIE
IFY DOZIEELIZABETH JIBUNOH
NIKKY OGBUEFI VICTORIA EZEOKOLIE
WENDY TABANSI
BIMBO DUROSIMI-ETTI TONIA OGBORO YEMI ADEBIYI BIMBO HEFFNER FURO HART CHINYERE
SYLVIA & TONYE COLE ELUOJO VALENTINE ANEKE FEMI YOUNG NDUKA OBAIGBENA MONSIGNOR PASCAL
NWAEZEAPU PASTOR PAUL ADEFARASIN MOSES IHONDE YEMI CARDOSO
OGOCHUKWU, HELEN & ANGELA ANEKE
DONALD DUKE
AKUNNA NWALA & TOKE MAKINWA
ANTOINETTE TAMUNO
70 HEARTY CHEERS
FOR JOHN OBAYUWANABY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR
It was a fun outing for friends and family of the luxury maestro John Obayuwana as they recently gathered at the Sky Lounge restaurant in Eko hotel & Suites, Lagos to celebrate his 70th birthday. From a stunning performance by Asa to a sumptuous dinner, John left no stone unturned in making sure it was a memorable gathering for all in attendance.
Often referred to as the King of luxury, John Obayuwana is the Founder and Managing Director of Polo Luxury Group, a foremost luxury goods retailer in Nigeria.
John Obayuwana founded Polo in 1991 out of the desire to create a company that enriches people’s lives with products of the finest quality and craftsmanship. Till date, he remains a connoisseur of luxury goods and runs one of Nigeria’s most successful luxury stores alongside his daughter Jennifer.
JOANNA OBAYUWANA, JOHN OBAYUWANA & JENNIFER OBAYUWANA
MR & MRS SUFIANU
MR & MRS JIDE ODUSOLU BEN OBI & JOE AIKHOMU ESOHE KADIRI KENNEDY UZOKA NDIDI ANYAEHIE OLU AKPATA
IFY & DILLY
MR & MRS YEMI OGUNBIYIAUDU OGBEABDULRAZAQ ISA & FLORENCE ITA-GIWADONALD DUKEGOV GODWIN OBASEKI OF EDO STATE
HELEN AJAYI PREST & RUTH OSIME
PHIL ODUOZA
GREG UANSERU & MUSA DANJUMA
AKIN SEMOWO & CHRIS UBOSI
TOYIN SUBAIR
FIDELIS ANOSIKE MR BERHNHARDT
AYO SUBAIR ALEX OTTI LANRE DA SILVA & RITA DOMINICALI BAL
MURRAY BRUCE
PRETTY PINK INLately it seems everywhere we turn, we spot the colour PINK. One of the loudest colours in fashion, it has made its way to red carpet, runway and now to our hearts. The pink trend might not be for everyone, especially if its styled in the most trending way now, which is through a monochrome all pink outfit. However, if you scroll through your Instagram feed, you’d see that some
bloggers and fashion lovers alike have given us a few ideas on how to wear pink every day in a more wearable way.There are many ways you can incorporate pink into your outfit with accessories and makeup. So, find the ones that suits you the most, but also don’t forget to experiment, you might end up finding your new favorite outfit color choice...
BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR
CHINYERE ADOGU
MIMI ONALAJA
SHIRLEY
STELLA UZO
KENZO ROTATE BIRGER HANEY MICHELLE MASON
SADE AKINOSHO
NAOMI
ALEXANDRIAH
CHIOMA IKOKWU
TOKE MAKINWA IDIA AISIEN
VALENTINO
DOLCE AND GABBANA
JIMMY CHOO
PRADA
MIU MIU
GUCCI
MALONE SOULIERS
HERVE LEGER PALMER HARDING
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S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
When did you discover your lump?
I discovered my lump in January 2015 through self-examination. I was 27 years old at the time. At first, I thought it was totally harmless, until I went for a breast scan, FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) and biopsy which detected malignant cells in the lump. At that point it was very hard for me to believe until I was referred to the oncology department. For me, it was doubt and disbelief all the way until I started my chemotherapy which was my first treatment.
How were you able to handle the journey mentally, emotionally and spiritually?
God. Daily I read and meditated on the word of God regularly. I also prayed a lot and focused on my work, trying as much as I could to give less attention to the disease. That was my mental escape.
Did you have any support and what role did this play during your treatment?
Yes, I had a lot of support from my husband, parents, in-laws, siblings, church members, doctors and colleagues. Everyone played a very huge role that made the treatment a lot easier for me. Some helped through their prayers, some financially and some emotionally. I had a mild treatment though because it was detected early. It lasted within the space of one year.
What key things did you learn during this tough journey?
I learnt a lot about life, God and humanity. I learnt to depend on God in every situation. Casting all my burdens on Him. I also learnt the place of God in my life and what really matters most to me. Right now, my mind is fixed on achieving the purpose of my existence. Serving God and helping others survive. I also look forward to fulfilling my life goals.
Do you have any fears or thoughts of it returning?Not at all, the bible says affliction shall not rise again.
Has this experience changed your outlook to life?
Yes, it has. My priorities have changed. Let’s just say I am more concerned now about the unseen things than the seen things.
What more steps do you feel should be taken to create even more awareness?
It will be great if women talk about it to enlighten themselves and not just express fear and withdraw at the mere mention of breast cancer. Also, young women in their 20’s, should be breast cancer aware too. I didn’t think it was possible to get it at my age. There’s this false notion out there that it only affects women in their 40’s and above. That needs to be corrected.
Many women still see this ailment as a death sentence. What do you have to say to them?
Early detection saves life. It saved mine. Secondly, with God on your side you can win ANY battle.
It has been said that your state of mind plays a huge role in terms of survival. What is your take on this?
Yes, it does.
Many people don’t survive cancer because of fear, some eventually die from fear. You have to have faith to survive. And faith cometh by hearing, hearing the word of God.
One needs the word of God to be in the right state of mind and have peace and joy while facing this challenge.
Many people don’t survive cancer because of fear, some eventually die from fear. You have to have faith to survive. And faith cometh by hearing,
hearing the word of God.
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when men and women around the world unite in a show of support against the disease. The annual campaign has helped put breast cancer under the spotlight, and it has worked hard to teach women the importance of early detection and breast awareness, the best weapons in the fight against the disease. Both approaches have helped save the lives of hundreds of thousands of people who have successfully battled breast cancer because it was caught in its early stages. Once upon a time, Cancer was viewed as a death sentence. Most victims throw in the towel even before the fight for survival begins. The reason for these awareness is not just to survive but to also learn how to survive. Spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically...sometimes even financially, avenues are being created to find solace and build faith. Fear is one of the biggest battles to overcome and when replaced with hope, builds the determination to survive. So, as all things turn Pink this month, we show our support by speaking to a group of survivors and
advocates who have all come under the umbrella of the Life on the Pink Lane Campaign to not only enforce breast awareness but also provide succour for those living with the disease. KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR reports...
When did you discover you had Breast Cancer?
I discovered I had a lump during my breast self-examination. I had not done one in a very long time and after I heard an awareness message on radio, I decided to check my breast and that was how I discovered a lump and my numerous hospital visits began. I was 23 at the time.
When I got my diagnosis, I was in a state of confusion, I wondered what will become of me. I did not know anything about breast cancer, so it was a rollercoaster of emotions. I was so afraid that I kept on wishing it was all a dream that will go away once I woke up.
How were you able to handle the journey that followed your diagnosis?
I don’t think anyone is ever fully prepared to handle a journey such as cancer, but I think having that conversation with myself early and making peace with the situation. I told myself I was going to live and in other to do so, I was going to fight as hard as I could. I am here today because I had and still have the most wonderful family, friends and my employer at that time. The encouragement, their thoughtfulness and showing up when I was at my lowest is something I could never repay in this life. I had a team that chose to stand by my side and so it did not feel like it was just me against the world. Having that sort of backing made me feel valued and I desperately wanted to stay alive for them too for all the sacrifices they were making.
How long was your treatment? And what lessons did you take away from the journey?
I had all my treatment here in Nigeria and it lasted for a year and two months. It would have been shorter but at that time there was only one radiation machine working in the country so there was a long queue.
The breast cancer journey is a school on its own with lots of learning curves. 3 major lesson I took from my experience are:
1. You are the number one advocate for your health. Initially when I presented my lump at the hospital, I was told I was too young to have breast cancer but I insisted on going through proper testing, so I learnt to be vocal about my concerns and not rest until I get the proper attention.
2. People will always have different opinions and proffer various solutions. You have to sift through them and do what is in the best interest of your wellbeing. If your pastor, Iman or herbalist is not an Oncologist then they have no business treating you.
3. Lastly, no one will know what you are going through if you do not open about your issues and you don’t know who might be of the greatest help. I was referred to the doctor that managed my treatment by my boss at that time and he paid for more than half of my treatment. I know people are always worried about stigma and how they will be treated differently.
For me, the focus was to be alive first and I needed and accepted all the help I could get.
What’s your state of mind now that you have survived cancer?
It’s been five years post treatment and I couldn’t be more thankful.
My life purpose has taken a new direction and I count every opportunity to share my experience as a blessing. I strongly believe God kept me for this purpose. I’m more passionate now and I choose to live my best life every day.
When I face any setback or difficulty now, my default pet talk to myself is “lf I survived breast cancer then this will be easy”.
Do you have any fears or thoughts of it returning?For the first two years after treatment, I lived in fear
of breast cancer coming back and I would check my breast often just to catch any signs and my doctor at a point worried for me but not anymore. I have made peace with that phase of my life. Life happens to everyone. I’m more concerned about living a purposeful life now and using my experience to bring awareness to this horrible disease. I still check my breast because it’s the right thing to do.
Has this experience changed your outlook towards life?
I would say my breast cancer experience has refined me. I appreciate relationships a lot more now and I’m invested in my friends and loved ones. I see life as a privilege and not a right and most importantly, I have quit complaining about Nigeria and simply identified an area where I can make an impact and that’s what I channel my energy into.
What more steps do you think should be taken to create even more awareness of Breast Cancer?
There is a lot of ongoing work on awareness right now in Nigeria unlike before but one aspect which really needs to be highlighted is survivorship. The public perception is that breast cancer in Nigeria is a death sentence and one of the reasons is that they only see the critical cases in the media but not much of the survivors. We keep saying that there is life after breast cancer, but they don’t get to see it.
I believe survivors need to lend their voices to the awareness drive. I know ladies who have gone ahead to marry, have kids, get their dream jobs and live their best lives but do not want to be associated with the word “cancer”. We are not our scar, but your story might be the only source of hope for the next woman.
Breast cancer when presented early, is treatable and the survival rate is very high. On the other hand, breast cancer when presented late can only receive palliative care and the survival rate is low. Early diagnosis amongst other factors makes all the difference and like I always say, if I survived, that means you can survive but please make a habit of subjecting your self to routine screenings and also do your own breast self-examination monthly. If you ever have any breast concern, see a medical doctor in a standard hospital and not your Pastor, Imam, any traditional herbalist and neither should you waste money on any alternative drugs.
How well do you feel Nigeria is dealing with creating awareness of the fight against breast cancer?
I would say the awareness drive is increasing in Nigeria at least I can see the difference between now and six years ago when I was diagnosed. Beyond awareness, there needs to be access to free screening programs and this cannot be left to only Non-Governmental organizations. If we really want to see increase in early detection in Nigeria which is actually the goal of awareness, then let there be free screenings in every primary health centers around the country so that even the local women in the most remote part of the country can have access to it. I can bet you that in 2019, there are still women who have not heard of breast cancer and we need to reach everyone.
What parting words do you have for those dealing with this ailment at the moment?
Dealing with breast cancer will drain you in every way possible and sometimes the people around you may not understand how you feel but you have to be strong for yourself. There are days you will feel like crying, it’s actually good to let out emotions so please cry it all out but don’t forget to laugh too, it will do your soul a lot of good. Breath in positivity, never lose hope and most importantly, do the things that make you happy. You need rest too so allow the people around you take care of you too…you are deserving of all the love, care and attention.
I believe survivors need to lend their voices to the awareness drive. I know ladies who have
gone ahead to marry, have kids, get their dream jobs and live
their best lives but do not want to be associated with the word “cancer”. We are not our scar, but your story might be the
only source of hope for the next woman.
LIFE ON A PINK LANE
CHINENYE NGOZI OKEKE
REALTOR AND BREAST CANCER SURVIVORAGE - 31
SURVIVORS
PATIENT NAVIGATOR AND BREAST CANCER SURVIVORAGE - 29
HALIMAH AMARACHI OKAFOR
C O V E R C O V E R
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
When did you discover your lump?I discovered in June 2009. I was 49yrs and
8 months. When I got the news, I was naturally devasted and my heart literally dropped to my feet. But with the support of my family and self determination to live, l was able to cope emotionally. Physically, l was in denial and somehow, l think that helped. Spiritually, l only really prayed the first day the news broke. I begged God to spare my life for the sake of my daughter who was just five at the time, then l held on to the meditative mode of prayer with my rosary beads which I always had with me.
Did you have any support and what role did this play during your treatment?
Oh yes! My sister was with me throughout when l had to go outside the country for treatment. This helped a lot because l was able to concentrate on getting better while she took charge of the associated care and logistics that comes with seeking treatment abroad. My initial treatment lasted for nine months after which l had to return after three months for checkup. Thereafter, every six months for three years, then yearly and every two years. Hopefully to end in 2020 God willing.
What key things did you learn during this tough journey?
Faith, prayer, resilience, strong will, love of family and from family can see you through any challenge. Most important of all, I’d tell you that God’s grace is real. I am a very happy, contented and humbled person. I am also very grateful to God having survived this ordeal. Some who caught it did not make it but here l am, alive and well and just trudging on.
Do you have any fears or thoughts of it returning? Yes, l do. Because it metastasized to my chest in
2010 and l had to go through some radiotherapy treatment again, but it has been in remission since then and hopefully forever. Also, you hear of how the big ‘C’ returns with a vengeance and just literally takes over all the major organs and then death. So, l worry sometimes.
Who was most encouraging to you while you went through this process?
My husband, my daughter and my siblings.
Has this changed your outlook to life?Yes, it has changed my outlook to life, because it
was a near death situation, and you realize that all life is vanity. All you need is peace and contentment.
What more steps do you feel should be taken to create even more awareness of Breast cancer?
Breast cancer awareness should be like a popular song all over the country. We need to create jingles, awareness centers and also find a way to take it to the nooks and crannies of our villages in the language they understand.
Many women still see this ailment as a death sentence because of the low rate of survival. What do you have to tell them to assure them that it is a battle that can be fought and won?
Dear women, breast cancer is not a death sentence. You must fight it and take the decision to conquer. Healing starts with you. So never say never.
You must reach out because of the financial implications and be ready to fight the big ‘C’ with optimism and self-confidence.
It has been said that your state of mind plays a large role in terms of survival. What is your take
on this? It is very true. Some people give up as soon as they
get their diagnosis. But l will like to encourage them to put on the cloak of ‘not again Big ‘C’’ and give themselves all it takes to conquer. Early detection and treatment is the bright light at the end of this tunnel.
People rarely focus on the loved ones of people going through cancer. Do you feel there should also be platforms or channels that will assist them in better ways to deal with the emotional grief they also go through?
I strongly believe so. This is already going on in advanced countries, so Nigeria should stand up to the challenge and take up this responsibility. If loved ones have the opportunity to share their experiences, they will be able to cope better. It is really tough on them seeing their cherished ones suffer while they look on helplessly.
How well do you feel Nigeria is dealing with creation of awareness?
Some efforts are being made particularly with the NGO’s and private sector but with greater awareness I believe we can stop cancer in all forms in its tracks, because as you know early detection and care is key.
When you were low, what did you find most uplifting? How were you able to deal with the mental/emotional and physical pain of treatment?
Definitely, my low days were bad. I hardly spoke to anyone. I refused eating or drinking. You are not happy with your physical outlook and so your emotions are down and out. My sister, Nyoreme was my Florence Nightingale at times like this. Spiritually I could not really pray but l always said in my mind ‘Lord Jesus have mercy on me’.
What parting words will you like to say to those going through what you went through?
To all my Pink Ladies, l must tell you, going through breast cancer is not an easy road, physically, emotionally and financially. Never give up. Be optimistic. Tell the big ‘C’ you will be victorious. God help us all.
Dear women, breast cancer is not a death sentence. You must fight it and take the decision
to conquer. Healing starts with you. So never say never. You
must reach out because of the financial implications and be ready to fight the big ‘C’ with optimism and self-confidence.
KESSIANA MARTINS ENTREPRENEUR, HOMEMAKER AND BREAST CANCER SURVIVORAGE - 59
C O V E R
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
Why did you decide to get involved in the Life in the Pink Lane campaign?
Well I have seen the effects of cancer close hand, too close for comfort. One of my close friends has just been diagnosed and is receiving treatment. Another very dear friend died within 10 days of diagnosis. Even closer still, another I regard as a dear sister, thank God, survived and is living healthily and happily. So, in support of them and so many others whenever I have an opportunity to advocate for cancer awareness I do so.
Why is it so important to continue to raise awareness on breast cancer?
We can never advocate too much for awareness. Awareness is vital, early detection can make the difference between life and death.
What would you tell women who have just discovered they have cancer to give them hope and comfort?
HELEN PREST-AJAYIWRITER, EDUCATOR, LIFESTYLE EXPERT EX-BEAUTY QUEEN (MISS NIGERIA 1979) AND BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE
Why did you decide to get involved in the Life In The Pink Lane campaign?
Gbenga Art Smith discussed the project with me and I agreed to come on board immediately. I didn’t overthink or overanalyse it primarily because breast cancer needs as much awareness as it can get. More people need to know that they have to check themselves often and that cancer is not a death sentence if detected early. This campaign celebrates women who have survived cancer and I wanted to be part of something that highlights victory. I have lost two aunties to cancer, so I am willing to do anything to reduce the chances of more women dying of this dreaded disease. Lastly, I did this
because Gbenga does
very well with pushing out messages with his jewelry line.
How can we support Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
First, we all need to encourage the women in our lives to get checked very often. We need to let them know that they don’t need to be afraid of getting checked. Teaching women how to check their breasts for lumps or anything unusual will also help support the awareness.
What do you believe is missing from the current conversation regarding
KEMI LALA AKINDOJU ACTOR, PRODUCER, HOST AND BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE
Why did you decide to get involved in the Life in the Pink Lane Campaign?
The campaign was brought to my knowledge through a good friend of mine. Being part of a worthy cause in support of Breast Cancer is gratifying for me. Life in the Pink Lane is all about awareness, hope, celebrating survivals, and most importantly, remembering our loved ones who have lost their battle to cancer. That for me, was more than enough reason to be part of it.
How can we support a loved one who’s just been diagnosed with breast Cancer?
We need to “Love our neighbors as ourselves”. A little kindness goes a long way. We can offer support physically, mentally, and emotionally, and endeavour to keep their hope alive. Knowledge is power. It is important to know the stage the Cancer is at and act quickly without delay.
Tell us your thoughts on the
role self-love and self-care play in the battle against Cancer?
It is important to love yourself, and be comfortable in your own skin, and general wellness. Regular medical check-ups should be a priority for everyone as it helps to diagnose cancer before it spreads to greater proportions.
LANRE DA SILVA AJAYIFASHION DESIGNER AND AND BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE
That was in 2008. I first flirted with the idea of jewelry designing in 2005 but did not take
it seriously until 2008 when I decided to go for proper training in the craft. What was initially a hobby soon became a business.
The Life In The Pink Lane campaign presumably must be emotionally tasking. How do you manage detach yourself mentally after each day?
It is, actually. Most days are emotionally tasking for me as there is hardly a day, I do not deal with the task of having to help out somebody in need. So, I have over time, grown a habit of detoxing by spending time on YouTube listening to music, inspiring messages, intriguing stories, comedy skits, etc. I usually feel rejuvenated after this routine.
Tell us about the Life on the Pink Lane Campaign?
“Life on The Pink Lane” campaign is an initiative of Gbenga Artsmith jewelry. It is in partnership with Cancer AwareNigeria, a non-profit organisation. This project will not only increase breast cancer awareness and support early detection and treatment, but it will also raise funds for indigent patients through the auction of pieces in our pink-themed collection. 20% proceed from sales would go towards this.
Who and what was the inspiration behind it?My first “encounter” with breast cancer was 20 years
ago when my mum lost one of her closest friends to breast cancer. She was a pioneer in the event decoration industry. Cancer nipped her very promising career in the bud. This year again, we lost another family friend to breast cancer. She was a formidable force by many standards; an accomplished lawyer both in public service and private legal consultancy.
I then realised that we will continue to lose great assets to this merciless disease if we do not rise up to fight it in whatever way we can. By the way, 85% of my clientele base are made up of women and so what affects women invariably affects my brand.
How much support have you
received while running it and from who?We have enjoyed substantial support from both
individuals and brands- CNN, Ebonylife TV, TVC, The Place Restaurant, Vanguard Allure Magazine, Glintz Photography, BM Pro Makeup, Bellanaija, The Sun Newspapers and of course, THISDAY Style magazine. Even though we hope to get more support to fully achieve our set objectives, we are very grateful for that which we have received so far.
Has working with these women changed your perception of life?
Absolutely! It has. I am confronted with the transient nature of life; how everything can change suddenly in a matter of hours, days, weeks or months. You are here today, gone tomorrow. More than ever before, I now know for a fact that the quality of a man’s life is never to be measured on a scale of abundance but by the significant impact it has.
Let’s talk about Gbenga Artsmith? When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as a jewelry designer?
GBENGA AYO DADA CREATIVE DIRECTOR, GBENGA ARTSMITH JEWELRY, BREAST CANCER ADVOCATE AND CONVENER, LIFE ON THE PINK LANE CAMPAIGN
breasat cancer?I think Hope is missing from the conversation.
Hope that we can survive breast cancer if caught early and hope that there will always be cancer survivors. A lot of people see it as a death sentence. In my own little way, I try to encourage women to get checked often and more importantly, to make better life choices. I encourage people to exercise, eat right, sleep enough and generally check the things we consume.
Staying positive mentally is crucial to
survival. Never give up hope, stay cheerful, have good thoughts, pay attention to
your diet and pray. With early detection, the survival rate is increasing. Most importantly don’t suffer in silence. Nigerians are kinder and more helpful than you think.
THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
ADVOCATESC O V E R C O V E R
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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
Wearing pink
automatically tells people you’re a
confident character. Its absence from most outfits
means it stands out in yours and, so long as you pick hues that suit your skin tone and that sit pretty with the rest of your outfit, it’s a statement that flatters.
Probably the most
statement piece you could
wear to tackle this trend, the pink
jacket will no doubt add a standout vibe to your wardrobe. Surprisingly, this is a colour that incorporates brilliantly into any
man’s outfit, but you just have to
know what to pair with it.
When we say pink, we don’t mean the hot, almost Barbie-esque pink that was massive back in the early noughties, well, it can be, but you can really play around with the hue that you’re comfortable with wearing. This could be anything from hot pink to a salmon colour or something really muted and subtle.
The main
worry for guys is that they could look
effeminate in pink. But the truth is no colour is off limits. It all boils down to the way you style it and the confidence with which you pull it off.
Now, this
may not be
your first choice when
it comes to tackling pink this season, but a pink traditional wear will be more versatile
in your wardrobe
that you first thought.
BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR
EBUKA UCHENDU
The stigma of pink being only for women has long been placed as an archaic and odd thought. One of this year’s biggest trends for men is, in fact, this once feminine hue, and this handy little guide will tell you all you need to know about pulling it off confidently. From jackets to shoes, this week, we teach every man how to wear pink.
REAL MEN WEAR PINK
Something you thought would never come into style
for men is a pink double-breasted
suit but as the times change, so does trends. Do like Ebuka and pair with white sneakers for a
casual vibe.
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GABRIEL AKINOSHO DENOLA GREY
BAYO OKE LAWAL
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S T Y L E & D E S I G N S T Y L E & D E S I G NTHISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
THISDAY Style 935 Sunday, October 20, 2019
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