Glamsquad_Magazine_Jan_2024

january 2024 

The Best 

Fashion 

Tips to 

Guide You 

in 2024 

Model to 

celebrate: 

Victoria 

Michaels 

Exclusive 

Michelle 

Obama: 

10 Most 

Influential 

Women in 

the World 

top 30 

Fashionable 

Outfits of 

2023 

Mauritius: 

The Pearl 

of Africa’s 

Tourism 

Jennifer 

Lopez Reveals 

the Best 

Concealers for 

Mature Skin 

America’s 48th President? 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com 1

Inside 

Glamsquad 

Magazine 

January 2024 

FOOD 

Gong Bao 

Chicken 

Recipe 

ESCAPE 

Mauritius: The 

Pearl of Africa’s 

Tourism 

60 

54 

16 

Michelle 

Obama: 

America’s 48th President? 

glamsquadtv glamsquad3 glamsquadTV glamsquadmag 

2 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com

Editor-In-chief / 

Publisher 

Remi Diagbare 

Editor 

Amenna Dayo 

Deputy editor 

Chioma Esui 

Stand-By/Ad-Hoc 

Praise David 

Grace Effiong 

Oyindamola 

Staff Writers 

Sasha Bokamoso 

Contributors 

Dr. Nkechi Omoson 

Chef Amaka Obiefuna 

Kabirat Opoola 

graphics / 

Web Manager 

Layi Success 

MARKETING Director 

Tega Diagbare 

Imioms Dan Anyiam 

10 

Most Influential 

Women In The World 

T 

he choice of Michelle 

Obama as the cover for 

our first edition in 2024 

resonates with power, brains, 

achievement, family – and of 

course beauty! 

In this edition, we have 

showcased Mrs. Obama in a 

manner you have never seen her 

– a 360-degree retrospect! Over 

the years, Michelle has continued 

to show us that a woman can have 

it all – power, fame, success, love, 

and family. She embroiders the 

aspirations of the modern woman. 

As usual, our editors went no holds 

barred to once again deliver an 

edition that meets the Glamsquad 

standards. Opening up the 

edition with the Best 2024 Fashion 

and Beauty Deals Every Chic 

Should Shop Early, to Our Top 50 

Fashionable Outfits of 2023, leading 

to the 10 Most Influential Women in 

the World, and the 20+ Under-$100 

Home, Beauty, and Fashion Items 

to Kickstart the New Year, your 2024 

fashion goals are cut out for you. 

Our feature interview with 

Nollywood hot celebrity, Christiana 

Martin would blow your mind! Trust 

me when I say it is a MUST-READ! 

As you should already 

know, Glamsquad will 

be transitioning soon to 

becoming a premium 

subscription-based 

magazine, and we are 

soliciting your continuous 

support to enable remain 

afloat and continue to 

deliver great content 

monthly. 

Once again, have a great 

read and remember to send 

the link to as many friends as 

you can! Happy New Year 

and each day! 

Warm 

Rega rds, 

A . 

50 

Ameena Dayo 

Editor, G.S 

Head Office: 

Suite B2, 388. HFP Shopping Complex, Abraham 

Adesanya Junction, Lekki-Epe Way, Lagos, Nigeria 

For advert enquiries, 

please contact the marketing Director 

Tel: +09150764272, +44 7424 594773 

or email, 

info@glamsquadmagazine.com, 

glamsquad.magazine.tv@gmail.com 

We pay for exclusive celebrity stories. 

FASHION 

Best 2024 

Fashion 

Deals Every 

Chic Should 

Shop Early 

4 

Disclaimer: 

Please note that all photos used in this special 

digital edition of Glamsquad Magazine were 

sourced freely online. 

Glamsquad maintains no rights over the images/ 

photos, while we have tried to give appropriate 

credit where due, we are aware some artistes 

were not credited. 

We remain committed to supporting intellectual 

property and creativity. 

© 2024 Tegali Communications 


FASHION 

Chic List 

Best 202 

Deals Ever 

Should Shop 

By Abigeal Bankole 

Perfumes 

Perfumes are one of the finest 

accessories to create a bold fashion 

statement in 2024. You should go for 

premium fragrances that complete 

your look from top to bottom and 

show you as a true fashion influencer. 

As the fashion season of 

2024 is all set to come, 

chic dresses are stealing 

all the limelight. So, let’s 

help you with the best 2024 

fashion deals every chic should 

shop early in this new year. 

Check out the best tips curated 

by our editors. w 

Attractive 

Handbags 

Adorning an attractive handbag 

can make a beautiful statement 

piece and the best way to carry your 

essentials. A matching handbag 

with your clothes can make you as 

a fashion-forward person. So, try to 

match a unique handbag to your 

ensemble and get a completely 

stylish look. 

Vibrant 

Colour Trend 

Bold and attractive, the 

vibrant colour fashion trends 

in 2024 are adaptable with 

different styles like throwbacks 

for amazing looks. It generally 

involves clothing in bright 

colours, for example, blue, 

green, orange, yellow, and 

red. Consider a bright colour 

hoodie with matching shorts 

and sneakers or a yellow crop 

top matched with wide-leg 

trousers. 

Bohemian Trend 

This fascinating trend takes into 

account a mix of classic and 

modern ensembles. This fashion trend 

involves unique textures, floral prints, 

embroidery, fringe, and colour tones 

featuring earth or jewels to make 

ravishing clothing pieces. 

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FASHION 

4 Fashion 

y Chic 

Early 

Adorable 

Wrap Dress 

Going ahead with tried-and-true 

silhouettes, the wrap dress is making 

a resurgence with the latest updates, 

such as playful textures and bold 

prints. This clothing piece is usually 

flattering and can be dressed 

according to the occasion. 

Cosy Slip 

Dress 

The slip dress is an effective trend 

for those who like simplicity. This style 

includes lightweight and breathable 

fabrics and fewer designs, making 

it an ultimate dress option for any 

event. You can combine these 

dresses with sneakers for a casual 

appearance or dress them with 

heels for a beautiful night out. 

Work Leisure 

Wear 

The work leisure trend is 

going to be one of the 

latest fashion trends in 

2024, mixing professional 

style with casual ease. 

Think of a world where your 

clothes simply change 

from business meetings to 

simple night outs. You can 

mix them with sneakers 

or flats for a more casual 

appearance. 


FASHION 

The Best Fashion 

Tips to Guide You 


By Grace Ode 

As we bid adieu to the old 

and welcome the new, it’s 

an opportune moment 

to contemplate our personal 

growth and set aspirations for 

the approaching year. Beyond 

the common resolutions to hit 

the gym or acquire a new skill, 

why not direct some attention to 

your closet? Yes, we’re delving 

into fashion resolutions! 

Consider these as your 

wardrobe aspirations and the 

roadmap to attaining them. 

Find inspiration to establish style 

objectives that will refine your 

appearance and empower you 

to embrace your unique fashion 

sense. 

Here are a few fashion 

resolutions to make 2024 your 

stylish year: 

Rediscover 

and Revamp 

Who doesn’t relish finding 

treasures, particularly those 

forgotten? An impactful 

fashion resolution involves 

revisiting your wardrobe’s 

past and uncovering 

overlooked pieces. This 

can be exhilarating 

and also helps in saving 

money. Once you 

rediscover them, restyle 

and reimagine these old 

favorites to birth fresh and 

innovative looks. 

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www.glamsquadmagazine.com 

Venture Beyond Your 

Comfort Zone 

Admittedly cliché, yet undeniably valid. The first stride in fashion 

resolutions involves liberating yourself from the style routine by 

experimenting with fresh colors and silhouettes. Stepping out of 

your comfort zone could mean embracing vibrant prints, exploring 

inventive pairings, or adopting a new aesthetic. Whatever path you 

choose, this journey can lead to exciting revelations about your style.

FASHION 

Invest in Versatility 

Let’s make 2024 the year of 

adaptability. Pledge to invest in 

pieces that transcend multiple 

occasions and seasons. A wellthought-out 

collection of versatile 

staples ensures you’re always 

prepared for any event while 

maintaining an elegant style. 

Consider timeless blazers, classic 

denim, and refined accessories 

that effortlessly enhance your 

appearance, regardless of the 

setting. 

Support Local and 

Emerging Designers 

Commit to supporting local tailors 

and emerging designers in the 

upcoming year. Explore the hidden 

talents of artisans and creatives within 

your community, championing their 

work in your local fashion scene. 

In doing so, you contribute to 

the growth of local talent while 

infusing your wardrobe with 

distinctive pieces that narrate a 

culturally rich story. 

Embrace Your 

Individuality 

Fashion is inherently subjective. 

Celebrate your distinctive style by 

focusing on what exudes confidence 

and comfort for you. Rather than 

merely following online trends, allow 

your outfits to mirror your personality. 

Play with accessories, blend different 

textures, and curate an ensemble 

that speaks volumes about your 

unique persona. 

Document Your 

Style Journey 

One final touch: transform your 

fashion resolutions into a documented 

expedition. Share the looks you create! 

Whether it’s opening an Instagram 

account dedicated to your daily style or 

maintaining a style journal offline. 

Fashion resolutions are about fostering 

growth, fostering creativity, and 

embracing self-expression. As the new 

year unfurls, seize the opportunity to refresh 

your wardrobe and refine your style. What 

fashion resolutions will you adopt in 2024? 


FASHION 

30 

Top 

Check Out Our 

Fashionable 

Outfits of 2023 

By Praise David 

Less talk, more fashion! Check 

out our top 30 Fashionable 

Outfits of 2023! Trust us, you 

will love what you see! 

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FASHION 


FASHION 

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FASHION 

20 

+ 

Under $100 

Home, Beauty, 

and Fashion 

Items to Kickstart 

the New Year 

By Amenna Daayo 

Crossbody 

phone case 

Pullover and 

Joggers Set 

Wool Clog 

Finding a great item at the right 

price is no easy task. There 

are a lot of things to consider 

when shopping for someone 

else, including their personal 

interests, personality and gift-giving 

preferences. 

For some, a sentimental item that’ll 

cue happy tears will hit the mark, 

while others opt for presents that 

they can actually use in their daily 

lives. So how do you find something 

they’ll love for less? To help you out, 

we’ve done tons of online research 

to bring you the best items under 

$100 that we could find. 

No matter who you’re shopping for, 

there are items for mom, your BFF, 

grandparents, siblings and more. 

This list of items under $100 has 

everything from an Apple AirTag to 

help them find their keys to a solarpowered 

statue that’ll light up their 

garden at night. 

As you sift through this guide, rest 

assured that every gift on this list 

is affordable, so you can shop in 

peace without totally blowing your 

budget. And the best part? These 

picks are so nice that they’ll never 

know they’re under $100 

Beanie 

Bluetooth Speakers 

Birthdate Candle 

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FASHION 

Volumier 

Cotton bathrobe 

Hand Wash 

ortable 

blender 

Bracelet 

Belt Bag 

Fitbit 

Moccasins 

Knot Pillow. 

Pillow slippers 

Weather Travel Set 

Tassel Midi Dress 

Sneaker 


REPORTAGE 

Michelle 

Obama: 

Her Inner Light, Global 

Influence, & Life Beyond the 

White House 

By Amenna Daayo 

Michelle Obama is one of the most 

influential and powerful women 

on the globe, who has made a 

significant impact across the globe. 

Growing up, Michelle Obama, a little Black girl 

from the South Side of Chicago, didn’t know how 

to unlock her personal power. 

Sure, she had supportive parents, good grades 

and a straight head on her shoulders. But what 

was missing was a sense of belonging. 

Of course, for eight years, we came to know 

her as the polished first lady to America’s first 

Black president, Barack Obama. Since leaving 

the White House, she’s discovered a megaphone 

she couldn’t always use under the watchful eye 

of political critics, and she’s still living by the motto 

she first made famous, “When they go low, we go 

high.” 

She’s written another book, “The Light We Carry: 

Overcoming in Uncertain Times,” that speaks to 

such empowerment. And Obama has started 

recording “The Light Podcast.” It allows her to 

share stories of family and lessons about inner 

confidence. 

Working through the Obama Foundation’s 

Girls Opportunity Alliance, Obama has joined 

forces with philanthropist Melinda French Gates 

and human rights attorney Amal Clooney to 

help girls around the world move closer to global 

gender equality. Their goals include ending child 

marriage and getting more girls into classrooms. 

“Gender equality – and the plight of young 

women around the world – has always been an 

important issue area for me,” Obama said in 

writing, responding to questions provided to her 

as a Women of the Year honoree. “There are over 

100 million bright, hardworking, and capable girls 

out there who aren’t in school – who aren’t being 

given a fair shot or opportunity to succeed. That’s 

not just a tragedy for these girls, it’s a tragedy for 

all of us. We know that when girls go to school we 

are all better off: poverty goes down, economies 

grow, and babies are born healthier.” 

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REPORTAGE 


REPORTAGE 

French Gates said millions of girls around 

the world look at Obama and see the 

woman they want to be. And the reason 

Obama is such a powerful advocate for 

them is because she looks back at those girls 

and sees herself. 

“Michelle is a true global icon who 

has lived and worked in one of the most 

important buildings on the planet, but you 

get the sense that when she looks in the 

mirror, she still sees the little girl with big 

dreams that she used to be,” said French 

Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates 

Foundation and founder of Pivotal Ventures. 

“That comes through in the conviction she 

brings to her work on behalf of young people 

and rising leaders. 

“We haven’t seen too many people on the 

world stage who manage to exude the same 

combination of competence and warmth, 

and it’s an incredibly effective combination,” 

French Gates said of Obama. “Whether she’s 

speaking to heads of state or high school 

students, you see her treat everyone with the 

same attention and care. She doesn’t get 

distracted by who happens to be powerful. 

She is laser-focused on who has potential 

and what she can do to help them achieve 

it.” 

Obama has also become a founder and 

co-chair for When We All Vote, a nonpartisan 

organization that helps people register to 

vote and understand the power of their voice 

as a tool for change. She believes the way to 

advance equality is through the lens of racial, 

social and economic justice. In her view, that 

starts at the polls. 

“Mostly, I’m just trying to share my story,” 

Obama wrote. “And by doing so, I hope I’ve 

helped some people see the value in their 

own stories – and share theirs as well. It’s 

that give-and-take with folks all around the 

country and around the world that’s meant 

the most to me.” 

Below, we have some excerpts of 

Michelle’s responses to an interview after 

her award as the USA TODAY’s Women of 

the Year, a recognition of women who 

have made a significant impact in their 

communities and across the United States. 

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REPORTAGE 

Who paved the way for 

you? 

More than anyone else, it’s 

my parents: Marian and Fraser 

Robinson. They gave me the 

courage and determination I 

needed to always be myself 

and live with confidence. This 

process started early, back when 

I was a little kid, sitting at the 

kitchen table with my brother. My 

parents always wanted to hear 

our thoughts and opinions about 

the world around us. They always 

made us feel like our voices 

mattered. We weren’t told to be 

This may not be the most surprising 

answer for you, but Barack and I really 

did use “going high” as a mantra when 

the critics were loudest. For us, going 

high was a line in the sand, a decision 

point – a place to step back and decide 

who we wanted to be. It’s not always 

easy to go high, of course. 

“seen, not heard,” like a lot of kids 

of our generation. They wanted to 

hear us – they liked it, even. And 

that level of engagement and 

support really laid a foundation 

that helped my brother and I 

thrive. 

You had such a strong 

platform as first lady, but 

your voice and influence 

are stronger now. Does that 

surprise you? 

You know, I don’t really worry 

about that kind of stuff. There’s 

not much I can control about 

what others think about me. 

Throughout my time as first lady 

and even now, I think I’ve just tried 

to make the most of my platform 

by focusing on things that are 

authentic and real to me. At the 

White House, that meant helping 

kids and families live healthier 

lives, talking with military families 

that inspired me, mentoring local 

students in D.C., and talking to 

kids about college. 

What is your proudest 

moment? Do you have a 

lowest? 

Well, I’ve got to start with 

the birth of my two beautiful 

daughters – because they are 

without a doubt the thing I’m 

most proud of in the world. Those 

girls mean everything to me, and 

I am so lucky to be the mother 

to strong, thoughtful, and resilient 

young women. I’m also just really 

grateful that our family made it 

out of the White House in one 

piece. It’s tough to raise children 

– or feel normal – in such unusual 

circumstances, and we made it 

through. I’m proud of that. I would 

say losing my dad was my lowest 

moment. I was just devastated. 

I lost him about a year before 

Barack and I got married, and 

knowing that he wouldn’t be there 

to walk me down the aisle and 

or meet his grandchildren was so 

painful. I think anyone who has 

lost a loved one knows that the 

pain never really goes away. 

Is there a guiding principle 

or mantra you tell yourself? 

This may not be the most 

surprising answer for you, but 

Barack and I really did use “going 

high” as a mantra when the critics 

were loudest. For us, going high 

was a line in the sand, a decision 

point – a place to step back and 


REPORTAGE 

decide who we wanted to be. 

It’s not always easy to go high, 

of course. But unlike making 

the choice to take the low 

road, going high will never, ever 

diminish who you are. It always 

helps us shine our brightest 

and lead lives with a little more 

dignity. 

It’s not always easy to go high, 

of course. But unlike making 

the choice to take the low 

road, going high will never, ever 

diminish who you are. It always 

helps us shine our brightest 

and lead lives with a little more 

dignity. 

Who do you look up to? 

Of course, I look up to all 

the greats: Nelson Mandela, 

Dr. [Martin Luther] King, Maya 

Angelou, and so many others. 

But I’m probably someone who 

looks up the most to those I’m 

closest with, like my big brother 

and my mom. I just think the 

world of them – who they are 

and how they live their lives. And I 

really, truly know them, flaws and 

all. I think there’s a real power 

in understanding someone’s 

whole self – the full truth of their 

example – especially if it’s an 

imperfect one. 

How do you overcome 

adversity? 

Well, going high is a big part 

of it. But I also think a few other 

things have gotten me through 

rough patches over the years, 

and I talk about a lot of them in 

my book. Barack, of course, is 

one of them. I am so grateful to 

have a partner who listens to me 

when I’m down, reasons with me, 

and does everything he can to 

lift me up. I know how rare that is, 

and I just love him for it. 

I also have an incredible 

group of friends, who I refer to 

20 


REPORTAGE 

as my Kitchen Table. They are 

my tried and true friends, and 

they are just there for me. Period. 

When I’m struggling, I know I can 

just pick up the phone and call 

them, and they’ll be my shoulder 

to cry on. They’ll be there for me 

to help me make it through. 

You’ve written that your 

first book tour was among 

the most meaningful 

experiences of your life. 

How does your new book 

compare with that? 

“Becoming” really did change 

my life – publishing it lifted a 

lot off my shoulders. It was an 

exhale. Writing “The Light We 

Carry” was cathartic in a different 

way. Like a lot of folks, I found 

myself in a low spot during the 

pandemic. And part of what 

helped me get through it was 

the process of writing this book. 

It was my way of answering 

those questions that so many 

of us were asking: How do we 

live with uncertainty? How do we 

overcome? So for me, this book 

is about understanding that none 

of us are alone in this world; that 

we all have a light inside us that 

can shine bright even through 

all the uncertainty the world 

throws at us. We just have to keep 

kindling it. 

What advice would you 

give your younger self? 

I think I would say something 

like: “Hey Miche – you are good 

enough. You can do this.” I 

remember feeling so much 

anxiety as a younger person. 

Did I belong? Did I measure 

up? I remember even having 

a counselor once who told me 

that I wasn’t good enough for 

Princeton. And that introduced 

a whole new set of doubts for 

me about how I saw myself in 


REPORTAGE 

the world. It took me time, but I 

eventually found my place – and 

gained more confidence in my 

voice. 

Who paved the way for 

you? 

Our people have been on 

the frontlines for generations 

– those are the people that 

paved the way for me in my 

advocacy work. And I think, more 

specifically, my mom and my 

aunties really paved that trail for 

me because my mom is also an 

incredible advocate. I learned 

everything from her. She was a 

single parent raising me and my 

brothers. We always had help 

from our community, and one 

thing that I’m very thankful for is 

having a great connection to my 

community. 

What is your proudest 

moment? 

I have been blessed with 

some amazing opportunities. But 

some of the proudest moments 

are when I go back to my 

community and am surrounded 

by Native children and elders 

who are excited and happy and 

who feel proud of who they are. 

A lot of our people carry shame 

due to generational trauma. 

Seeing these young kids have 

healthy representation and have 

healthy people they can look up 

to and, when they go to the store, 

see a Native person on the cover 

of a catalog or a magazine. 

What is your definition of 

courage? 

My definition of courage is 

someone who is courageous 

enough, brave enough and 

open enough to just take up 

space. It takes a lot of courage 

to take up space unless that 

space was just given to you. 

But for people like me and, 

honestly, Indigenous people, our 

voices, our perspectives and our 

experiences had been pushed 

out of the media – out of every 

narrative. 

We are reclaiming that 

narrative. We’re reclaiming our 

identity and showing people who 

we truly are as a people, not just 

what Hollywood stereotypes were 

created about Native people. 

My definition of courage is someone who 

is courageous enough, brave enough 

and open enough to just take up space. 

It takes a lot of courage to take up space 

unless that space was just given to you. My 

definition of courage is someone who is 

courageous enough, brave enough and 

open enough to just take up space. It takes 

a lot of courage to take up space unless 

that space was just given to you. 

Is there a guiding principle 

or mantra you tell yourself? 

My mom repeated this to me 

growing up: “Always remember 

who you are and where you 

come from.” 

Who do you look up to? 

I look up to my mom. Why she 

has been such a powerhouse 

in so many different ways. She’s 

had so many different careers in 

her lifetime: She’s won awards for 

protecting women. She was in 

law enforcement for a long time; 

she was the only Native woman in 

22 


REPORTAGE 

her line of duty in Alaska. She has told her truth, told her 

story, her experiences, and shared traditional knowledge 

that has been passed down for generations. 

How do you overcome adversity? 

We were living out of a car when I was a toddler. And 

(my mom) was able to bring us to a place where we 

had everything we ever wanted and needed. And I think 

about those moments when things were horrible. She 

made it seem like nothing was wrong. And she still made 

sure that we were happy, and we were good, and we 

were fed. 

And in moments when I feel like I am struggling, 

or I’m having a hard time with the work, I always think 

about my blessings; I have to count my blessings. And 

I have to really take a step back and be like, “Look, this 

is a challenge, you are going to be challenged. But we 

have been through worse, and we will overcome this.” 

And I just really pray, you know, I have to ask my 

ancestors, my creator for guidance. I think it’s really 

important to stay connected and grounded within your 

culture. Because growing up, you know, I grew up with 

my culture and my ways of life. And whenever I feel 

disconnected from that, I don’t feel myself and then 

everything else becomes harder. 

But in moments where I do feel weak, I have to 

remind myself how much strength it took for me to be 

here. How many attempted genocides my people have 

overcome. 

My people aren’t even supposed to be alive. I’m not 

even supposed to be here. But I am. And I’m thankful for 

that. 

What advice would you give your younger 

self? 

I would tell myself that things get better. I have had 

some pretty dark moments, especially going into my 

teen years. I was bullied on and off for having different 

facial structures, or being too skinny, too tall, or having 

long hair. I was really hard on myself. I tried to become 

that beauty standard and after a while, I realized I had 

to create my own beauty standard. There is beauty 

everywhere in everyone. I am in a place where I 

look back I wish I could tell my younger self, “You are 

beautiful,” because there were so many times I didn’t 

feel that way. I wish I could tell that to every young 

person that is struggling. Because I know everyone at 

one point needs to hear it. 


FEATURE 

Model To 

Celebrate 

24 


FEATURE 

Victoria 

Michaels: 

The Nigerian-Ghanaian 

Model Lighting Up 

Runways 

By Lindiwe Owolabi 

V 

ictoria Michaels is a 

Ghanaian-Nigerian 

model, fashion icon, actress, 

brand ambassador and 

philanthropist. She is the 

recipient of several accolades, 

including Ghana Models 

Awards, Glitz Style Awards, and 

the City People Entertainment 

Awards. 

She recently celebrated a 

major success: Her beautiful 

smile was featured in the April 

issue of Cosmopolitan Italia, 

one of the world’s bestselling 

lifestyle magazines. 

Obviously joyful with her 

achievement, Michaels took 

to Instagram to pen a lengthy 

post. But instead of focusing on 

herself, she used the attention 


to motivate other young 

female models that may 

come after her. This is 

what she had to say to 

inspire models who are 

longing to achieve their 

dreams: 

“For a model, you 

may not be on the cover 

page of vogue or strutting 

the fashion capital of the 

world, it really doesn’t 

matter,” Michaels wrote. 

“What I consider 

really important is what 

you’re doing in your 

space. Be consistent, 

build your content and 

remain original. Work with 

your God-given space 

regardless of where 

that place is located 

geographically. Girl, if you 

are living your dreams, 

that’s all that matters”. 

26 



FEATURE 

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 

Up-Close and Personal 

with Nollywood Celebrity, 

Christiana 

Martin 

By Sebastiane Ebatamehi 

When the internationally 

celebrated poet and 

writer, Avijeet Das, 

penned the phrase “She is a 

Volcano of Talents,” he was 

undoubtedly referring to 

Christiana Martin. 

Recognized as one of the most 

talented film-makers and actors 

by any standards, Christiana 

Martin is a leading Nigerian- 

German actress with several 

blockbuster movies to her credit. 

Born on October 26th in 

the bustling city of Warri, Delta 

State, Christiana Martin boasts 

a multicultural heritage, being 

the offspring of a Nigerian 

mother and a German father. 

Recognized as Nigeria’s most 

stunning actress, she also 

showcases a remarkable 

collection of exquisite tattoos. 

Having pursued a robust 

education, Christiana obtained 

her First School Leaving Certificate 

and West African School Certificate 

in Nigeria before venturing to the 

esteemed New York Film Academy. 

There, she specialized in HI-DEF 

Filmmaking and Acting, achieving 

this milestone in 2015 at the Abu 

Dhabi campus. 

Upon her return to Nigeria, 

Christiana made her mark in the 

entertainment industry, gracing 

numerous films and TV series 

including “Gidi Up,” “Breakfast,” 

“Lekki Wives,” “Thieves and 

Weavers,” “Twenty Four7,” “Love 

Notes,” “Four Brothers,” “Midlife 

Blues,” “Mirage,” and several others. 

Throughout her career, she 

has collaborated with industry 

heavyweights like Femi Branch, 

Daniel K Daniel, Tamara Eteiemo, 

Mofe Duncan, Diana Childs, Jimmy 

Odukoya, Uzor Arukwe, Angel 

Ufoma, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Alex 

Ekubo. 

Beyond her acting prowess, 

Christiana also excels in the culinary 

arts. In 2020, she was tapped to 

host the television cooking show, 

“Soup Tube,” where celebrities 

showcase their culinary skills. 

Renowned personalities who 

have appeared as guests on her 

show include Gbenga Adeyinka, 

Uti Nwachukwu, Esther Agunbiade, 

Uche James Iroha, Fred Amata, 

Chris Okagbue, and Efe Henry, 

among others. 

Our team sat down with 

Christiana Martin for an Exclusive 

interview and photoshoot, and the 

multi-talented superstar left no 

stones unturned as she opened the 

doors into her world. Enjoy! 

28 


FEATURE 


FEATURE 

30 


FEATURE 

Christiana, you’re having such 

a successful career in the movie 

industry. What first drew you 

to acting, and what keeps you 

passionate about it? 

Christiana Martin: I got drawn 

into acting after I did a cameo on a 

movie set I was shy at first but then 

I found out I enjoyed that little role. 

After that, I decided to pursue a 

formal education at the New York 

Film Academy. Acting for Film and 

Hi-Definition Film making. After school, 

I loved portraying different characters 

and bringing them to life. That’s what 

keeps me going. 

Can you take us through the 

journey of your career so far? 

What have been the highlights and 

challenges along the way? 

Christiana Martin: After school, I 

produced my first movie SCORNED 

where I won best producer in TINFF. 

After that I have had the opportunity 

to work with a lot of talented actors 

and actresses, learning as I go. I 

just co-produced 2 more movies 

DESPERADOES and A MOTHER’S LOVE 

which you guys should watch out for. I 

have had my fair share of challenges 

but I don’t dwell on them or talk about 

them because they are all learning 

processes. Every mistake is a lesson 

learnt. We just move forward. 

Are there any specific roles 

or genres that you’re particularly 

drawn to? What attracts you to 

these types of characters or stories? 

Christiana Martin: Well, honestly, 

I am very diverse. I could play most 

characters. Soft, tough, crybaby. But 

what matters most to me is being able 

to bring the character to life. I have 

always been drawn to being in a soft 

action movie where I can be tough 

and do some stunts. I don’t do all 

these workouts for nothing. At least let 

me use it to do an action film. Lol 

Tell us about your upcoming 

projects. What can fans expect to 

see from you in the near future? 

Christiana Martin: Well like I 

mentioned earlier I just co-produced 

two movies DESPERADOES AND A 

MOTHERS LOVE which will be out in 

2023 and 2024. I would be trying my 

best to dive into more production. 

So expect more movies from my 

production company - SILENT MEDIA 

PRODUCTIONS, by His grace. 

Building on your successful 

acting career, you’re now exploring 

entrepreneurial ventures. What 

motivated you to venture into 

business, and can you tell us more 

about your new endeavours? 

Christiana Martin: I am the 

Marketer for the factory. I believe 

You can’t have just one source of 

income that is what drove me to get a 

diploma in Digital Marketing. And I love 

being diverse, as a creative I like trying 

different things. From selling my artwork 

as an artist to being a chandler and 

making resin home decorations. 

As a fitness enthusiast, how 

do you incorporate your love for 

healthy living into your busy 

schedule? Any tips for our readers 

on maintaining a healthy lifestyle? 

Christiana Martin: Well fitness 

is a lifestyle for me. It’s something 

I already incorporated into my life 

for a long time. I wake up at 5:45 

in the morning to be able to get to 

the gym and train for two hours. I 

have built my schedule around that 

time and it all seems to work for me. 

My diet is quite simple because I 

developed IBS last year. And I just 

have to cut out a few things that 

cause me discomfort but I still eat 

like everyone (I love amala) in small 

portions. But I do try to avoid refined 

sugar. I advise people that you 

don’t necessarily have to train like 

an athlete but an hour of walking/ 

jogging would do you good and 

maintaining a good diet also is very 

important. You can’t go to the gym 


and then go and swallow one basin 

of fufu afterwards. 

Are there any particular fitness 

regimens or exercises that you find 

most effective in staying physically 

and mentally fit? 

Christiana Martin: I normally prefer 

working out in the mornings cos it 

makes me feel more energetic during 

the day. And I love HIIT or CrossFit. 

Anything to get my heart racing. I do 

lift heavy. But I don’t advise anyone to 

lift heavy without a proper trainer or 

spotter. 

What advice would you give to 

young actors who are just starting 

out and hoping to achieve the 

success you’ve experienced? 

Christiana Martin: My advice is 

never to give up, go for auditions, 

perfect your craft, and put yourself 

out there. Learn from the people 

before you or people that are already 

there. You can never have too much 

knowledge. And honestly just work 

smarter not just harder. 

Moving forward, what are your 

goals for your acting career? 

Are there any specific roles or 

achievements you’re aiming for? 

Christiana Martin: Well, I am a 

very simple person all I want with my 

acting career is to be a well-known 

household name. My kiddos are 

already very proud of what I have 

been able to accomplish but that 

would be just wonderful to achieve. 

How do you recharge and 

relax when you have a moment to 

yourself? Any favourite hobbies or 

indulgences? 

Christiana Martin: I love the water 

so I am constantly at the beach. 

There is something about the fluidity 

and freedom of water. I also am an 

artist well not Pablo Picasso kinda artist. 

But I have a thing for abstract art and 

abstract geometry. When I am tensed 

up or stressed, I pick up my brush 

and canvas. Some of my artworks 

are being displayed at MOBILIA 

FURNITURES even though they get sold 

out quickly. 

32 



Millennial P 

Runway Loo 

Real World 

FASHION 

By Abigeal Bankole 

Ever since the skinny jeans 

debate, there seems to be 

underlying online animosity 

between millennials and 

Gen Z. For the most part, the 

divide is trivial—many of the 

millennial-loved trends of the 

‘90s have been reborn for the 

TikTok generation and practically 

everyone is wearing ballet flats 

again. 

The younger group managed 

to make millennial moments 

a trendier, cooler part of their 

identity—and for the record, 

I fall directly between the two 

age groups and take no sides. 

However, while Gen Z may 

be able to add their stamp of 

approval to a trend, they aren’t 

necessarily the ones behind the 

trend’s creation, and the fashion 

trends for 2024 presented during 

Fashion Month prove it. 

Bridal Suits 

You don’t have to be walking down the aisle to 

buy a white suit. Short, long, tailored, and flowy 

white suits were all welcome on the Spring/ 

Summer ’24 runways. Whether you’re looking for 

a strong winter white, or are already planning 

your work wardrobe for next summer, a white suit 

should definitely be included in the line-up. 

34 


FASHION 

ink & Other 

ks For The 


Millennial Pink 

Do you remember the chokehold this specific 

shade of pink had on millennials (and probably 

every other age group) in 2015? From home 

decor accents and wedding color schemes to 

brand campaigns, this color made every palette 

more palpable. 

However, over the last few years, the shade 

disappeared from collections as quickly as 

the phrase “girl boss” disappeared from our 

vernacular. The bright shade of Barbie Pink took 

its place and has hopefully (finally) run its course. 

According to designers like Carolina Herrera, 

Simone Rocha, and Tory Burch, it’s time to add 

Millennial Pink back into our closets. Based on the 

Spring/Summer ’24 collections, you can expect 

to see the shade heavily incorporated into formal 

wear—no 2024 bridesmaid is safe. 


Mega Bags 

Prepster 

If you still have your Abercrombie & Fitch polo shirt from the 

early 2000s, it’s time to pull that relic back out. Preppy fashion 

is back and Miu Miu is leading the charge with polos, layered 

collared shirts, boat shoes, and elastic waist mini skirts. In Miu Miu’s 

collection, the trend is taking on the full Y2K identity but you can still 

find more classic versions of preppy style in 2024. Brands like Bally 

and Tods took a more streamlined approach to preppy fashion with 

pleated skirts, thin belts, and collared short sleeve button-up shirts. 

Your portable charger, book, laptop, 

makeup routine, gym clothes, 

and a pack of gum finally all 

have a place to go. Mega bags 

are here to crush all of the other 

2024 handbag trends—those 

Jacquemus mini bags better watch 

out! Designers like Brandon Maxwell, 

Sandy Liang, and STAUD proved that 

the bigger the bag, the better. It 

looks like the basic work tote is finally 

getting an upgrade. 

36 


Bunches 

of Lilac 

If you aren’t excited about the return 

of Millennial Pink, maybe this shade of 

lilac will make up for it. Lilac is a color 

that, dare I say, genuinely looks good 

on everyone and works in many forms. 

The soft hue looks inviting when woven 

into a chunky winter sweater and looks 

as whimsical as a lace summer dress. 

The shade is seasonless which means 

there’s no excuse to wait to wear it. 


Drop 

Waist Dresses 

The Gold 

Standard 

This fashion trend is gunning for a first-place spot in your closet. 

Metallic gold is sure to win you over in 2024. Gold automatically 

makes any outfit appear more formal. For special occasions, use 

Blumarine’s stunning gold strapless dress as inspiration. If you’re 

looking to score extra points in the office, consider adding metallic 

accents as demonstrated on the Miu Miu runway. Rabanne made 

a strong case for mixed metals with a gold and silver set. The 

trend can have a gladiator look—if you want to tone it down, pair 

metallic gold with alternate materials like denim or leater. 

The days of belting a dress to 

emphasize your waistline are in 

the past. Instead of opting for a 

high-waisted silhouette, try the 

sexier drop-waist alternative. This 

style is typically paired with longer 

dresses which bodes particularly 

well for eveningwear and special 

occasions. Take note from designers 

like Prabal Gurung and Phillip 

Lim and look for dresses with an 

asymmetrical neckline to give the 

look a modern feel. 

38 


Satin Trench 

Coats 

Get inspired by your grandmother’s 

closet and give your outerwear 

rotation a facelift by adding 

a satin trench coat to your 

wardrobe. The look of this coat is 

naturally more formal than a classic 

canvas trench which actually gives it 

more styling versatility. As presented on 

the Spring/Summer ’24 runways, this style 

clearly works over a dress with heels—for 

a more casual look, wear it open with a 

white T-shirt and jeans. Either way, the look 

has a vintage feel and will add texture 

and dimension to any simple ensemble. 


TRENDS 

New Year 

Fashion 

Trends of 2024 

By Grace Ode 

If you’re ready for this kind of 

a wardrobe refresh, we’ve 

got an array of answers for 

you plucked straight from 

the spring/summer ‘24 runways. 

Consider this roundup to be your 

glimpse into which 2024 trends 

are about to dominate clothing 

racks, cyber carts, and social 

media feeds alike so you can 

shop accordingly. 

We should begin by 

highlighting that the resounding 

message woven into the SS24 

collections was that it’s time 

to prepare for the boldest 

Hollywood styles to infiltrate the 

mainstream. 

Much like how the naked 

dress became ubiquitous far 

beyond the red carpet, the 

current celeb-adored trend of 

forgoing pants is making its way 

into everyday attire, too. 

Full Skirts 

The next iteration of 2023’s mega maxi skirt trend has arrived, 

and while longer hems are still very much in, we’re noticing a 

lot more volume when it comes to bottoms that land below 

the knee. Instead of slinky fits or Y2K-inspired denim fabrics, fuller 

skirts — a Molly Goddard signature — and ball gown silhouettes 

will be all the rage according to designers like Bottega Veneta 

and Staud. Batsheva even used an old-school hoop technique 

to accentuate its “cheerleader full-circle skirt” look. 

40 


TRENDS 

The Luxury 

Jumpsuit 

After utilitarian style reigned supreme 

as one of the top trends in 2023, the 

ongoing quiet luxury movement — in 

which ultra-minimalist styles and muted 

color palettes form the foundation of 

an expensive-looking aesthetic — is 

borrowing one of its star garments. 

The durable, one-and-done jumpsuit 

is getting the high-fashion treatment 

by the likes of Hermès, Saint Laurent, 

Carolina Herrera, and Isabel Marant. 

Expect to see this pared-back 

piece making stealth leaps in luxury 

throughout the year ahead. 

Ankle Action 

While décollétes were on display at Dior, 

Altuzarra, and more, the rising popularity of 

strapless dresses has not signaled the end 

of straps. The fastening fabric removed from 

shoulders this season seems to have been 

repurposed elsewhere, most notably around 

the ankles. Flats and Mary Janes with straps 

were shown at Salvatore Ferragamo, Collina 

Strada, Molly Goddard, and Burberry, while 

Miu Miu and Fendi added anklets to their 

sandals and pumps. Other ankle activity 

across runways featured higher-rising socks 

at Proenza Schouler and The Row. 


TRENDS 

Track Star Style 

If the abundance of 

preppy polos and rugby 

shirts by the biggest players 

in the game (think Louis 

Vuitton, Gucci, The Row, 

and Miu Miu to name a 

few) tells us anything, it’s that 

higher education is also high 

fashion. From windbreakers 

and hoodies at Dion Lee to 

tracksuits at Coperni, you’ll 

knock your 2024 style out of 

the park as long as you’re 

dressing like you’ve got an 

athletic scholarship beneath 

that popped collar. Pro tip: 

Don’t be afraid to borrow 

from the boys on this one. 

Short Suits 

If you were a fan of officecore 

attire this fall, get ready 

for a spring-friendly take on the 

trend: the short suit. Blazers worn 

with matching tailored shorts 

at Chanel, Maison Margiela, 

Givenchy, Coperni, and Staud are 

giving this professional(ish) look a 

convincing stamp of approval for 

2024. The short suit’s bossy yet fun 

aesthetic sets the tone for wearers 

who mean business without taking 

themselves too seriously. And 

while we don’t suggest rocking up 

in the aforementioned pantless 

trend to your next Monday 

morning meeting, we do predict 

shorts will be big for office suiting 

— albeit in more of a Bermuda 

variety. 

42 


TRENDS 

Florals 

While florals are decidedly 

not groundbreaking according 

to Hollywood lore, the same 

can’t be said of floral fabrics. 

Designers are ditching 

blossomy motifs for something 

far more dramatic when it 

comes to flowers, like the extralarge 

embroidery cut-outs at 

Valentino, multidimensional 

floral breast pieces at Loewe, 

knitted rosettes at Alexander 

McQueen, and actual pink 

roses stuffed inside sheer 

garments at Simone Rocha. 

However you parade around 

your petals this year, make 

sure they’re not limited to a flat 

pattern. 

Not-So-Winter White 

Considering Valentino has become the unofficial 

arbiter of the It color since its prescient endorsement of 

hot pink back in 2022, we turned to Pierpaolo Piccioli’s 

runway once again to get a feel for which shade the 

fashion house is favoring for the new year. Our findings 

were as stark as the color itself: white. We’re not talking 

about the ivory, grayed-out, eggshell whites that are 

associated with winter. This is the Meghan Markleapproved 

Husband-shirt, can’t-wear-it-after-Labor-Day 

levels of bright, unquestionable white. Other designers 

are also backing the hue in the form of flowy gowns and 

blouses (Victoria Beckham, Chloé, Courrèges), sharp 

blazers (Brandon Maxwell), and denim (Sergio Hudson). 

Meanwhile, Maisie Wilen and LaPointe are applying it to 

footwear. 


Top Street 

Photos to 

You into 2 

FASHION ESCAPE 

Style Du Monde, Sandra 

Semburg, Paul Won Jeong, 

Shoichi Aoki, Phil Oh, 

Jonathan Daniel Pryce, Scott 

Schuman, and Søren Jepsen are 

8 of the most in demand street 

44 


FASHION 

Style 

Welcome 

024 

By Praise David 

style photographers working today. 

We have carried out extensive 

researches to delve into their 

archives and select their most 

inspiring shots and share the stories 

behind the snaps. 


FASHION 

46 


FASHION 


BEAUTY 

BEAUTY 

Knows No Age: 

Jennifer Lopez Reveals the Best 

Concealers for Mature Skin 

48 


BEAUTY 

By Taylor Jeffries 

Jennifer Lopez is a jack of 

all trades, given that she’s 

a multi-talented singer, 

actor, and dancer. But 

after watching her latest 

Vogue Beauty Secrets tutorial, it’s 

fair to say that she’s just as adept 

at getting glam. Luckily for us, 

the 54-year-old spilled all of her 

secrets for glowing, flawless skin. 

Lopez isn’t the only one who’s 

a fan of this concealer. It’s a 

hit among other stars including 

Hailey Bieber, who revealed that 

she loves the creamy formula for 

“simple day-to-day or date night 

evening makeup,” earlier this year 

in a video interview with Harper’s 

Bazaar UK. 

When it comes to enhancing her 

complexion, one of Lopez’s go-to 

products stood out from the rest: 

Nars’ Radiant Creamy Concealer. 

And right now, you can take 

advantage of a discount on 

this long-lasting concealer at 

Nordstrom; snag this celebapproved 

product for as little as 

$13 for a mini size. 

The Nars Radiant Creamy 

Concealer is made for those 

looking for medium-to-high 

coverage. This buildable formula 

brightens, corrects, and hides 

blemishes for up to 16 hours, so 

it’s no wonder why Lopez swears 

by this multi-purpose product 

for covering dark spots on her 

face. 

It’s infused with a 

botanical blend of 

magnolia bark and 

grapeseed extracts, 

plus vitamin E to 

rejuvenate skin. 

Together, these 

ingredients firm, 

calm redness, and 

strengthen skin’s 

barrier by locking 

in moisture all day 

long. As a result, the 

concealer delivers a 

softer and smoother 

complexion with each 

use. Best of all: It comes 

in a variety of 30 shades, so 

you’re sure to find your perfect 

match. 


FEATURE 

10 Most 

Influential 

Women in 

the World 

By Sasha Bokamoso 

Discover the 10 most powerful 

women in the world who are 

changing the game in politics, 

business, and philanthropy. 

In today’s world, women have made 

tremendous strides in various fields, 

breaking barriers and making their mark 

in previously male-dominated industries. 

These women have not only achieved 

great success in their respective careers 

but have also inspired and paved the way 

for the next generation of women. This 

article aims to highlight and celebrate the 

achievements of the ten most powerful 

women in the world, 

The ranking of the 10 most powerful 

women in the world considers criteria 

such as position of power, societal 

impact, financial standing, global 

influence, leadership, and media 

presence. These factors contribute to 

assessing their overall influence and 

contributions to society. 

Kamala 

Harris 

Jina Mahsa Amini 

Jina Mahsa Amini, also known as Mahsa, has become 

a symbol of freedom. Her death in police custody 

(September 16, 2022) after being arrested for wearing her 

hijab improperly, sparked protests across the country and 

a rallying cry for women’s life and freedom. Her death 

and the widespread demonstrations it inspired highlights 

the ongoing struggles for women’s rights in Iran and 

around the world. Amini’s courage and determination in 

the face of oppression have made her a symbol of hope 

for those fighting for equality and justice, earning her a 

place as one of the most influential women in the world. 

50 


FEATURE 

Kristalina Georgieva is the 

Managing Director of 

the International Monetary 

Fund and one of the world’s 

most powerful women. 

She previously served as 

CEO of the World Bank and 

European Commission Vice 

President for Budget and 

Human Resources. 

She serves on international 

panels, co-chairs the 

Global Commission on 

Adaptation and the United 

Nations Secretary-General’s 

High-Level Panel on 

Humanitarian Financing, 

and has authored 

numerous publications 

on environmental and 

economic policy. 

Kristalina 

Georgieva 

Kamala Harris is an American 

politician and the first female 

Vice President of the United States. 

Prior to becoming Vice President, 

she served as a Senator from 

California and was the first South 

Asian and African American 

woman to hold this position. 

Harris is known for her experience 

as a prosecutor and her advocacy 

for criminal justice reform, and 

has used her platform to address 

a range of social and political 

issues affecting the country. She 

is a strong advocate for women’s 

rights, immigrant rights, and 

equality for all. Her historic election 

as Vice President has been a 

catalyst for change and a symbol 

of hope for millions of people, 

particularly women and people 

of color. Her leadership and 

commitment to making a positive 

impact on the world have earned 

her a place as one of the most 

influential women in the world. 

Greta 

Thunberg 

G 

reta Thunberg is a Swedish 

environmental activist who 

rose to prominence in 2018 

with her school strike for climate 

action. At the age of 15, she 

started skipping school to 

protest outside the Swedish 

parliament. Her actions inspired 

students around the world to 

join her cause. 

Thunberg is widely recognized 

as one of the most powerful 

women in the world for her 

inspiring leadership and 

impactful activism. She has 

been named as one of 

Time Magazine’s 100 most 

influential people. She has 

received numerous awards 

for her efforts in raising global 

awareness about the urgent 

need to address the climate 

crisis. Through her speeches, 

activism, and leadership, 

Thunberg has become an 

influential voice in the global 

movement to tackle the 

climate crisis. 


FEATURE 

Mary Barra is an American 

business executive who 

serves as the CEO of General 

Motors (GM). She took the 

helm of the company in 

January 2014, becoming the 

first female CEO of a major 

global automaker. Under her 

leadership, GM has undergone 

significant transformation, 

including the introduction of 

electric and self-driving vehicles, 

and a renewed focus on 

sustainability. 

Barra has also been an 

advocate for diversity and 

inclusion in the workplace. 

She has worked to modernize 

GM’s manufacturing processes 

and operations. With her 

combination of business 

acumen and visionary 

leadership, Barra has become 

a highly respected figure in 

Mary Barra 

the automotive industry and 

a role model for women in 

business. She has been named 

to Fortune’s list of the World’s 

Most Powerful Women multiple 

times. She has also received 

numerous awards for her 

leadership and contributions to 

the industry. 

Christine 

Lagarde 

Christine Lagarde is a French 

lawyer and politician who 

has served as the President 

of the European Central Bank 

since 2011. Prior to her role at 

the European Central Bank, 

Lagarde served as the two 

times Managing Director of the 

International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

She was also the first woman to 

hold the position of Managing 

Director of this important financial 

organization. 

Lagarde’s impressive background 

in law and finance, combined 

with her leadership skills and ability 

to navigate complex international 

economic issues, have earned 

her a reputation as one of the 

world’s most powerful women. 

Abigail 

Johnson 

Abigail Johnson. She is an 

American businesswoman 

and investor. She serves as the 

CEO of Fidelity Investments 

one of the largest investment 

management companies 

in the world. Johnson, who 

is a granddaughter of the 

company’s founder, has been 

with Fidelity for over 30 years. 

She has held several senior 

leadership positions within the 

company. 

Under her leadership, Fidelity 

has expanded into new 

areas such as cryptocurrency 

and robo-advisory services. 

The company has also 

consistently delivered strong 

financial performance. 

Johnson is widely recognized 

as a visionary leader in the 

financial services industry. She 

has been named one of the 

most powerful women in the 

world by Forbes and Fortune. 

Her combination of business 

acumen, leadership skills, 

and dedication to innovation 

make her a significant figure 

in the world of finance and 

investment. 

Ursula von 

der Leyen 

Ursula von der Leyen is a 

German politician and the first 

female President of the European 

Commission. She previously 

52 


FEATURE 

She has been consistently 

named on Forbes’ list of the 

100 Most Powerful Women. 

Consequently, she has been 

recognized for her efforts to 

promote gender equality and 

inclusive economic growth. 

Melinda Gates is a 

philanthropist and the cochair 

of the Bill and Melinda 

Gates Foundation, one of the 

largest private foundations in 

the world. 

Melinda is a passionate 

advocate for global health 

and development, and works 

to improve the lives of millions 

of people around the world 

through the foundation’s 

initiatives. Her philanthropic 

efforts focus on reducing 

poverty and improving access 

to healthcare, particularly in 

developing countries. 

She is also a strong advocate 

for women’s rights and gender 

equality, and has used her 

platform to raise awareness 

about these critical issues. 

Melinda Gates’ leadership 

and commitment to making 

Melinda 

French 

Gates 

a positive impact on the world 

have made her one of the 10 


world. 

served as the Minister of Defence 

in Germany and was the first 

woman to hold this position. 

As the head of the European 

Commission, she is responsible 

for formulating policy on behalf of 

450 million people and has been 

a strong advocate for a unified 

and sustainable Europe. 

She rose to prominence in 

the face of Vladimir Putin’s 

unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, 

announcing economic sanctions 

against Russia in response to the 

war. Von der Leyen’s leadership 

and commitment to protecting 

freedom and democracy earned 

her recognition as the world’s 

most powerful woman in 2022, 

according to Forbes. 

Von der Leyen’s handling of the 

COVID-19 pandemic further 

highlights her leadership skills and 

her dedication to improving the 

lives of Europeans. 

Giorgia 

Meloni 

Giorgia Meloni is the current 

Prime Minister of Italy. 

She took office on October 

22, 2022, making her the first 

woman to hold this office in 

the history of Italy. 

In the Forbes 2022 list of the 


world, Giorgia Meloni held 

the 7th position, highlighting 

her significant influence and 

impact on the global stage. 

Known for her straightforward 

and assertive communication 

style, Prime Minister Meloni has 

been vocal about her vision 

for Italy. She emphasizes the 

importance of safeguarding 

national interests, promoting 

traditional values, and 

addressing the concerns of 

ordinary citizens. Her policies 

focus on boosting the 

Italian economy, reducing 

bureaucracy, and enhancing 

security measures to ensure 

the safety and well-being of 

the nation. 


ESCAPE 

Mauritius: 

The Pearl 

of Africa’s 

Tourism 

By Sasha Bokamoso 

With its beautiful locations and 

its legendary hospitality, Mauritius is 

one of the top tourist destinations in 

the world. Here is our selection of the 

10 Top-Rated touristic attractions in 

Mauritius: 

Flic enFlac 

Located completely to the west of the island, Flic enFlac is 

a small touristic coastal village. The west of the island, in fact, 

is the warmest region of the island and this coincides with the 

presence of one of the most beautiful beaches of Mauritius, the 

beach of Flic enFlac. 

Luxury hotels, villas, beach restaurants, water sports, diving, 

swim with dolphins or undersea walk, everything here makes 

way to the ocean. The beach of Flic enFlac is the longest and 

most spacious beaches out there. The ever shinning sun warms 

up its azure lagoon up to 26 ° C on average over the year. 

Read our article on hotels in Mauritius here. 

54 


ESCAPE 

Grand Bassin 

The sacred lake of Grand 

Bassin is the largest place 

of worship in Mauritius. This 

inactive volcano is now 

a place of pilgrimage on 

the occasion of Maha 

Shivaratri religious festival. 

This ceremony celebrated 

in honour of Lord Shiva takes 

place early in the year. 

Grand Bassin is 

somewhat impressive for 

its height, located over 

1,800 meters above the 

level of the sea. There is 

also a statue of 108 feet of 

Shiva that brings a touch 

of originality to this sacred 

place. 

Ile aux Cerfs 

Mauritius is surrounded by 

several small islands. Ile aux Cerfs 

Island located within the east 

lagoon of Mauritius, is certainly 

the most famous of all. The island 

of Ile aux Cerfs is almost entirely 

enclosed by white sand beaches 

and turquoise waters only add to 

its beauty. 

Ile aux Cerfs is the perfect 

place to relax, enjoy a barbecue 

and go parasailing while enjoying 

majestic aerial view of this pristine 

island. The main beach of the 

island provides basic services, 

including beach restaurants 

serving local dishes. If you are 

walking to tour the island, you 

will surely find small and more 

discreet beaches. 


ESCAPE 

Chamarel 

The village of Chamarel 

located in the south of the 

island is the most visited 

natural site in Mauritius. This 

small village is home to 

the highest waterfall of the 

island and the famous seven 

coloured earth. The Chamarel 

waterfall is a waterfall of over 

100 meters that ends up in a 

huge natural pool. 

The seven coloured 

earth of Chamarel is a 

unique marvel in the world. 

This place is composed of 

distinct colours of sand dunes. 

Depending on the climate 

and the time of day, the land 

of Chamarel takes different 

shades. This phenomenon is 

due to the cooling of the land 

of volcanic origin at different 

temperatures. 

Grand Baie 

Grand Bay is the resort 

of Mauritius. Very popular 

amongst Mauritians and 

tourists, this small village 

located in the north is one of 

the most beautiful places to 

stay in Mauritius. With three 

white sand beaches and its 

sunny climate, the bay is the 

perfect place to enjoy water 

activities and visit the many 

northern islands. 

The village of Grand Baie 

and the surrounding area 

is also known to be a very 

“trendy” place in Mauritius. 

For youngsters and adults 

alike, there is always some 

entertainment like restaurants 

beaches, pubs, casinos and 

nightclubs. 

56 


ESCAPE 

Black River Gorges 

National Park 

This natural park covers 6574 hectares of lush forestation includes 

a nice range of Mauritian fauna and tropical flora. This dense forest is 

home to over 300 species of plants and shrubs. 

For wildlife lovers, the national park is the shelter of one of the 

rarest birds in the world; the Pink Pigeon, an endemic bird of Mauritius. 

For the conservation purposes and in respect of the natural habitat of 

the species, the park is to be visited only by walk. Hikers and trekkers 

will be delighted with the numerous trails in between gorges, peaks 

and waterfalls. 

Pamplemousses 

Botanical Garden 

Officially known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam 

Botanical Garden, this park spreads over 60 hectares and 

consists mainly of palm and fruit trees, including some 

endemic species in Mauritius. 

However, the photogenic attraction of Pamplemousses 

garden is its giant water lilies. For not more than Rs 150, you 

can wander the long romantic aisles. 


ESCAPE 

Port Louis 

Amongst the wide variety of treasures of 

this island, local culture is certainly the most 

valuable and the city of Port Louis is the 

perfect example of this multiculturalism 

country. Among the most beautiful 

buildings in the capital you will find multiple 

religious monuments, some statues of the 

founders, racetrack of Champ de Mars, 

Citadel and the Aapravasi Ghat, a site 

classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. 

The main attraction of Port Louis is its 

famous colourful market. Sometimes 

called “bazaar” for the active atmosphere 

reigning there, the market is a place not 

to be missed in Mauritius. It has everything; 

from exotic fruits to the best souvenirs of the 

island, traditional Mauritian clothing and 

the famous street food like Dholl Puri and 

Gateau Piment. 

58 


ESCAPE 

Le Morne 

If you are looking for a place 

cut off from rest of the world, 

there is Le Morne. This small 

village like no other is located 

on the southwest tip of the 

island. The public beach of 

Le Morne is one of the most 

beautiful and pristine beaches 

of the island to relax in privacy. 

Far from the cities and touristic 

influx, the four-kilometer long 

beach is almost deserted. 

The village is also home 

to the most beautiful natural 

site from the south, Le Morne 

Brabant. The site offers the best 

views on the southwest coast 

of the island. This mountain 

classified as Cultural Landscape 

World Heritage Site of UNESCO is 

a bookmark of a sad chapter in 

Mauritius’ history. 

Château 

Labourdonnais 

Located within a fine natural 

plantation, the Chateau de 

Labourdonnais offers rediscover 

the Mauritian way of life of the 

nineteenth century … Brilliantly 

restored, this majestic palace, 

built in 1859, was restored to its 

original splendour and offers a 

unique experience its visitors. 

After visiting the castle you 

can enjoy a walk in the garden, 

or visit his distillery to taste the 

traditional sugar cane rum. At 

the castle, you will also have 

the opportunity to enjoy the 

Mauritian gastronomy which, 

undoubtedly, will be a pure 

delight your taste buds! 


FOOD 

Gong Bao 

Chicken 

Recipe 

By Chef Amaka Obiena 

T 

his delicious Chinese chicken dish is 

flavoured with fresh ginger, garlic, chilli 

and peanuts, and drizzled in a soy-infused 

sauce. A classic Chinese recipe that can 

be made in just 20 minutes and a great 

dinner for two idea. See method 

60 


FOOD 

Ingredients 

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil 

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into 

2.5cm pieces 

• 2 spring onions, sliced 

• 5cm piece fresh ginger, 

finely sliced 

• 2 garlic cloves, finely 

chopped 

• 1 dried red chilli, 

crumbled, plus extra to serve 

• handful roasted peanuts 

• steamed white rice, to 

serve 

• 100ml chicken stock 

• 2 tsp dark brown sugar 

• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar 

• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce 

• 1 tbsp cornflour 

Method 

For the sauce, put the stock, 

sugar, rice wine vinegar, soy 

and cornflour in a bowl and 

whisk to combine. Set aside until 

needed. Heat the oil in a large 

wok set over a high heat. Add the 

chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 

mins, until golden. Remove and 

set aside. 

In the same wok, stir-fry most 

of the spring onions, the ginger, 

garlic and chilli for 2 mins, or until 

fragrant. Add the peanuts and 

continue cooking for 2 mins, or 

until golden. 

Return the chicken to the wok 

and pour over the sauce. Cook, 

stirring, for 3-4 mins, until the 

sauce is glossy and thickened 

and the chicken is cooked 

through with no pink meat 

showing. Divide the chicken 

between plates and scatter over 

the remaining spring onions and 

a little extra chilli. Serve with rice. 


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