Bellafricana, Author at Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in bellafricana, Entrepreneurship November 8, 2022

Post Bellafricana Recognition Event 2022

Bellafricana Recognition Event Winners 2022

As expected, the first-ever held Bellafricana recognition event came with its glitz and glamor. With the high turn out, the members of the community came out in full to support each other as well as grace the occasion. It also came with several emotions and feelings as the members expressed their love and affection towards how much Bellafricana has impacted their various businesses.

The Bellafricana community platform has done greatly in providing succour and support to its members since its inception, from providing use resources for business growth, great opportunities as regarding business, financial supports in form of grants, increased visibility and a lot more. Bellafricana has been a lifesaver and a shoulder to lean on for most creative entrepreneurs. You want to join? click here to become a member.

Meanwhile, back to our recognition event, these 3 days virtual event which kick started on the 27th of October and drew its curtains on the 29th of October. It was super loaded with amazing guest speakers who shared their grass to grace stories, awards, and mind blowing testimonies.

Day one of the event featured the grand opening where members where taught methods of gaining brand visibility and credibility using the ASAP model (Association, speaking, awards and publication). This session was anchored by Michelle Raymond, (CEO, the people’s partners), she spoke on the theme ‘The psychology of being a business owner and how to deal with heat”. This is an eye opener for the members as they learnt how to keep their business running even in economic hard times and downtimes.

Day two also featured amazing activity with its theme on “celebrating success in tough times”, this session as well showcased the different ways and approaches entrepreneurs could adopt in business.

Then came day three, the highlight of the recognition events. This day was very thrilling and captivating, I can boldly say I learnt a lot on day 3, it reminds me of the saying, “the best is saved for the last”. This session had in it different discussion on “Increasing streams of income” for business and several investment platform one can venture into. This session was held by Mrs Temi Ajibewa (a personal branding coach).

Another discussion on “How to prepare and position your minds for the future ahead” by Mr Lanre Basamta (mentor and author).

The community members shared their experiences as members of Bellafricana. According to the CEO of Yasmin craft, who talked about how she made use of the grant opportunities and resources on the platform to expand her business. Awards were given to well deserving members of the platform;

The most exceptional founder and resourceful member went to Princess Adeyinka of Happy Coffee
The most active and promising member went to Doyinmola Olajoye of Dhoney NG
The most supportive member went to Mrs Serifat Davies of Sisi Aladire

Conclusion

Bellafricana is bent on growing young and enterprising creative business owners as well as seeing to their expansion and growth. Many of the members have testified to the great impact it has had on them within and outside the country. Join the community to get exceptional testimonies on your brand. Click to see the full list of recognition winners 2022 and founding members.

Bellafricana published in Beauty, Health & Beauty October 31, 2022

6 Effective Natural Remedies For Acne

Oriki face oil by Oriki on bellafricana marketplace

There are a lot of speculation as to what really causes acne and can often be daunting to find effective natural remedies for acne. While some will argue that the food we consume has a lot to do with facial breakouts, others are of the opinion that bad hygiene has its role to play, and also it could be genetically transferred or environment too matters.

All these speculations seems true and can be argued. I used to have terrible acne and I remember being told that was my season for it. Until I got myself good home remedies and skincare products to ultimately set me free.

For people suffering from these, here are 6 effective natural remedies for acne problems that was my last resort solution:

1. HYDRATING FACE CREAM

Hydrating face cream is one of such solution to acne problems. as dry skin more often than not tend to cause acne problems. The skin contains lots of hair follicles from which hair grows. Acne is the result of these becoming blocked. Tiny glands near the surface of the skin produce sebum, an oil that prevents the skin from drying out. They can produce too much sebum, which blocks the hair follicle. Other debris, such as dead skin, also builds up. With the Treda organic hydrating face cream, this gives the face the right amount of moisture that it deserves, thereby keeping the face smooth and silky.

2. ANTI-ACNE CREAM

This is a special anti-acne treatment, This is a product of janeli global and this is also very effective for the total eradication of pimples spot on the face. What prompted me to purchase this products was how well my friend hyped it.As small as it may look, it does big magic to the face. If truly you are tired of acne, then rush and get this janeli global anti pimples cream.

3. FACE OIL

Back then I use to avoid face oil, as I thought it was the reason why I had severe breakout. Until I bumped into this matolo face oil. This was wonders, it worked like magic. This face oil is a combination of apple extracts and rosewater with its antioxidant richness, then that was my final bye bye to acne problems. My face stopped wrinkling, it was greazy and super glowy. I would forever remain grateful to this matolo face oil product. Yea!

Also read: Natural beauty brands in Nigeria

4. GLOW FACE WASH

Apart from using good creams on the surface of the face, what we also need to pay attention to is what we wash our face with. Some people spend more money on getting good face creams only to allow bad facial wash spoil the work. Matolo skincare product is one I would always vouch for, No matter the skin issues, This brand will help restore your beauty, confidence and smiles back. Trust me, Acne can cause depression atimes.

5. FACE WASH

Three years ago I was a top fan of Oriki face oil product, from moisturizers, body oil, body wash etc, I used them a lot. Those were my best products to use. This oil free Acne wash will perform the exact same thing I use to experience when I use this brand. I will always recommend this brand because of the high value I have received by using it.

6. FACIAL SUNSCREEN CREAM

The use of sunscreen helps slow down the development of wrinkled, premature-aging skin. It helps to prevent facial brown/dark spots and skin discolorations. This l’avyanna face sunscreen is super effective.

CONCLUSION

These products were carefully selected from my personal experience with them and also from lot of reviews and recommendation received on each brand. If you also want cream that will help your skin look bright and ageless, click on this link to order for more.

Bellafricana published in bellafricana, business, Community, Entrepreneurship, Events October 26, 2022

Bellafricana Recognition Event 2022

Bellafricana community is holding its very first recognition event. The purpose of the Bellafricana recognition event is to acknowledge the contributions of well-deserving members of the community, give them a forum to share, learn, be celebrated and prepare for the year ahead.

Just like other events, this promises to be a very exciting, intriguing, and applauding event. This is the very first time, our community will be awarding its well deserving members. Bellafricana is the home of creative entrepreneurs, and by this reason, that have nurtured, groomed, encouraged, and built over 20,000 community members since its inception, through various projects.

Knowing how times are with businesses especially in this part of the world, with the current inflation that has rocked the world not only Africa and Nigeria, we have always been particular about creative businesses as we have held their hands through thick and thin to watch their business grow. So let me ask, don’t these creative deserve a pat on the back for all their efforts so far? your guess is just as good as mine.

Just like our Ace Awards, this recognition award is targeted to just its members, and if you are not a member, what are you waiting for? Click to become a member today. The 3-day event, scheduled from the 27th-29th of October 2022 will consist of an open session with renowned business owners, international speakers, experts in the business industry, and a recognition session of several outstanding community members who have been nominated and voted for by their fellow members.

I have been saying this event is going to be engaging and worthwhile, here is why. Firstly, this event will help promote your brand through our website and social media platforms. This is a good way to create more brand awareness and place your brand out there.

Alot of these business creatives are small business owners that are only recognised by just a group of people. Businesses now leverage on our platform to gain recognition within and outside the continents.

Meanwhile, our awardees will get granted free media publicity in media outlets as well as free publicity on social media. Interesting right?

The Recognition event has also put in place a session to appreciate and acknowledge the contributions of well-deserving members of the community who have been nominated and voted for.

Here are the Categories put in place to recognize members:

1. Most Exceptional Founder

2. Most Promising Founder

3. Most Resourceful Member

4. Most Supportive Member

5. Most Active Member

6. Best Founding Members

CONCLUSION

Bellafricana is a tech-enabled community that provides a platform for creative entrepreneurs in the fashion, arts & craft, health & beauty, home & living, food produce & snacks industry, to gain visibility, increase sales, have the right business support and structure that gives them the capacity to grow their business.

Bellafricana published in Gift Items October 18, 2022

6 Baby Kits Items For Expectant Mothers

Hand knitted crotched onsie by Funke Akinlosotu the founder of Tender Hugs, a Nigerian crotchetier Bellafricana Member

Whether you are a first-time mom or long-time mum, it’s very much advisable to always make sure your baby kits are in place before his or her arrival. Other necessary items such as diapers, bath items, grooming kits, beddings, feeding supplies etc should be the first items to go for.

Meanwhile your kids need to be nurtured, nourished and made to look excellently well always.

Here are 6 baby kits items for expectant mothers.

HAIR COSMETICS FOR BABIES

I remember bumping into a cute baby boy with full, thick grown hair at the mall, He was a beauty and he got lot of admiration from on lookers. If you want your baby to be the centre of attractions with nice hair, then this Amal botanicals hair kits can be your kids hair delight. It comes with the combination of a shampoo, conditioner, hair growth oil and hair butter. This contains the right hair nutrients to help boost bald hair, or scanty hair.

2. BODY WASH

This is specially formulated with the right skin care therapy to soothing your baby skin. This black soap pampers the skins and its ideal for any skin type and skin color. This gives glow and brightens the skins. And it contains very mild and foamy ingredients to help your baby enjoy his or her bath time time.

3. FULL SKIN CARE KITS

Having a full set of skincare kits is ease and bliss. Instead of having to buy this in singles, Amal botanicals has helped to put up this combo to help manage all skin issues and live that baby with the glow and glam he/she deserves. This combo pack contains the black soap, body butter, body wash, hair kits, body oil and so much more.

ALSO READ: 5 Fabulous Home Decorative Items Using African Fabrics

4. PLAY TOYS

This is a great toy for little ones, I recommend this toy cos it is super skin friendly and unlike other hard toys that could end up injuring or bruising the skin. This is particular toy is soft, comes in beautiful animations and light to carry about. Tender hugs crochet crafted this with love, care and attention at heart.

5. CROCHET TUTU

I see lot of beautiful baby girls wear this for a photoshoot and nice parties. Tutu makes the already beautiful babies even more beautiful. No matter the color used to sew, it still look flashy and stylish. This fits for babies from 1 month and above. You can have this handy in your babies closets to rock with you to any outing.

6. SCENTED CANDLES

It’s been proven that enjoyable and mild scents improves babies’ mood, calmness and alertness. Babies tend to cry or get uncomfortable when they are found in stuffy or unpleasant places. Just as we adult like our vicinity nice scented, babies too find such places more relaxing and joyful for them. Thats why most kiddies cosmetic contains floral and fruity scents to improve the babies sensory experience and development. So, if a scented candle wasn’t included in your list of items to buy, I guess it’s time to add it.

CONCLUSION

There are still lots and lots of items to have when expecting your new born, but this just seems to be my favorites. You can get other varieties when you click here to order.

Bellafricana published in Beauty, Health & Beauty, People & Culture October 18, 2022

Fabulous African Hairstyles For 2022

There is something pretty unique about the afro culture and African hairstyles. Most especially how different hairstylist craft different styles to sit properly on every woman’ s hair. A woman’s hair is her crown, that is what makes every woman is a queen.

The black culture is blessed with thick, full, curly, kinky and amazing. It also seems to draw so much attention to the person carrying it, and interestingly, it can be styled in different fascinating styles.

Here is a list of several fabulous African hairstyles for 2022 to rock:

TWISTING BRAIDS

This beautiful hairstyle is well adorned and neatly made. I see lot of African brides’ rock this on their wedding or any special events. this twist cornrows come in varieties of styles. Thanks to African stylist for allowing us to have different feel in our choice for hairstyles

CORNROWS BRAIDS

This too is an amazing type of African hair do. This is made by inter weaving the hair and forming a nice knit between them. This is also very common in Africa as well as among our western counterparts.

Also read: 5 Suitable Hair Care Products In 2022

BANTU KNOTS

This originally originated from the Zulu tribe of south Africa. This hairstyle has also be accommodated into western culture and rocked by most famous celebrities like Rihannah. This can also be traced by to the ancient women warriors who use this hairstyle to signify feminism and increase their status. Bantu knots is made by divide the hair into sections, then twisted and wrapped to form spiral knots. Bantu originally means ‘people’ in over 300 African languages no wonder it is very popular among Africans and even African Americans.

TREDA ORGANIC HAIR KITS

Maintaining natural afro hair isn’t any easy. it demands careful attention, care, good hair products and time. This is not to scare anyone that wants to transition to natural hair, but just to give you more details to what truly growing natural hair entails. But thanks to hair products that have helped to ease the process of growing natural hairs.

Treda organics complete hair product is a great for growing natural hair. with its conditioner, shampoo, hair growth formular and other vital hair product, you are very sure your hair will blossom, sprout and flourish like a healthy tree. So put your natural hair up in a bun, get some coffee and let treda soft care kits.

BLACK SOAP SHAMPOO

Black soap shampoo is a product of sahara sunrise, this was manufactured mainly to treat issues like dandruff, strong and stunted hair growth. Sahara sunrise pays attentions to soft, curly hair and uses subtle ingredients to treat this hair as to not to cause damage to the hair.

CONCLUSION

Rocking that fabulously thick African hair is luxury and prestige, despite the fact that African hair could be very porous, hard to comb (depending on how it is been taken care of), but it’s amazing how it can be nicely styled and rocked. If you are an afro hair lover like me and you are finding it difficult to style your hair, click here to get amazing hair product to grow and nurture that crown you are carrying.

Bellafricana published in Furnitures, Gift Items, Home & Living, Painting, People & Culture September 27, 2022

5 Elegant African-Inspired Home Decor

My Africa Throw Pillow by Pillow Talk 9ja sold on Bellafricana Shop and Marketplace

Your home should have a touch of elegant African-inspired home decor telling the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love. It’s no doubt that public areas like hotels, conference centres, and recreational areas. This helps to bring out more sparkle, flamboyance, and embellishments to the space.

The beauty of African decorative items is the combination of vivid colors combined with earth tone and vibrant colors like green, yellow, and red to resonate beauty in a way and add glow to a space.

Adopting these 5 Elegant African-inspired home decorative pieces for your space will transform your space

AFRICAN PRINT THROW PILLOWS:

African print throw pillows are very catchy and beautiful to stare at. It serves as a decor accent to a space; bedroom, sitting room, office spaces, and corners. African throw pillows makers tell stories, using our rustic lifestyles, our commonness, and what makes us unique as Africans. Apoti Lagos, Bosh Designs are design and craft companies that manufacture artistic throw pillows, with beautiful colors, patterns, and craft designs to add feelings and emotions to your space.

Bosh Deigns African Drum throw Pillow sold on bellafricana shop and marketplace — ilu gangan throw pillow

1B. AFRICAN INSPIRED PILLOWS

Pillow Talk 9ja is another creative pillow design maker that uses Nigerian tales to craft elegant pictorial designs and messages. The brand uses relatable Nigerian themes such as festive events, Lagos lifestyle, folklore, and African traditional experiences. It also crafts personalized messages and seasonal/festive celebrations.

2. AFRICAN ARTS AND PAINTINGS

Art pieces are placed in strategic positions like accent walls, shelves, sidewalls, corner spaces to give details to a space. Ronke Scott, an artist has an interesting way of telling African cultural and traditional stories through her edifice. From capturing local and rustic to creating people’s experiences and realities, as well as emotions and doctrines. One of her great pieces of work, “psyche of a black woman”, examines the great features African women possess, strength, struggles, challenges, resilience, beauty, creativity, and uniqueness. Let your home always tell a story.

Ronke Scott Gallery Artworks MINIATURES sold on Bellafricana Marketplace

3. WOODEN HYACINTH LAMPS

Wooden hyacinths products are handcrafted fibers (otherwise known as waste or environmental menace). Waste products are recycled into beautiful furniture pieces. Adding beautiful wooden items can make your space look extra, on the edge and fabulous. MitiMeth creates unique and beautifully handmade hyacinth using fibers to produce crafts for dining chairs, rugs, tissue boxes, storage baskets, and a lot more. Mitimeth does fabulous items using waste fibres which are repurposed into usuable items for the home.

Lamp hyacinth sold by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace, African inspired home decor — Lamp hyacinth sold by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace

Also read: Top 6 Afrocentric Gift Ideas

4. AFRICAN THEMED PERFUME DIFFUSER/ SCENTED CANDLES

Do you know perfume diffusers have a lot to do with your wellbeing? There is nothing better than your favorite scent welcoming you as you walk into a space. Diffusers/candles not only smell great but look great too. They are stylish additions to window sills and act as great minimal centerpieces to tables. Have your house tenderly and nicely scented with Abela World scents perfumery. Abela world scents can last for up to 12 weeks, thereby causing a long-lasting scent in your space.

Perfume/Oil diffuser sold by Abela scents on Bellafricana marketplace

Scented candles sold by Abela scents on bellafricana marketplace, African inspired home decor — Scented candles sold by Abela scents on bellafricana marketplace

5) TISSUE BOX

This tissue box is a very excellent way of having your space free of littered tissues. This Ankara covering helps protect it from getting destroyed easily and stylish. Mitimeth helps repurpose waste from natural fibres into good decorative pieces suitable for any space. Adding finesse to your space with this great item will not only improve the glow of your space but also adds that edge and color harmony to any vicinity. its infusion of nice ankara material and fibre makes it more catchy and elegant to any space.

CONCLUSION

Afrocentric designs add elements of personality, charm, edge, uniqueness, emotions, warmth and inspiration. This fusion of bright and vibrant colors sends great appeal and sentiment to any environment. To order for your beautiful home decoration, click here

Bellafricana published in Destinations, Travel September 16, 2022

7 Fun Places To Visit In Lagos

The Good Beach Fun places to visit in Lagos Nigeria Bellafricana

Lagos is a city packed with many top attractions and sights which you can visit for free if you are looking for fun places to visit in Lagos. As a matter of fact, when I first stepped into Lagos after my Youth service. I had researched over 50 different attraction sites that one can visit and get thrilled.

Watching all these wonderful places on Tv and seeing people make post on IG for me was not enough. I wanted to be there, I wanted to feel same measure of excitement, I wanted to get in touch with nature, I wanted that warmth and nostalgia, truthfully, my expectations on a daily was really running wild.

I still had Exceptions, I mean, just after finishing service, allowee (monthly stipends) too won’t be forth coming as usual, but how do I satisfy my long-desired cravings still with my low-budget and minimal plan.

I finally came to a conclusion, so here are my forever top 7 fun places to visit in Lagos.

1. LEKKI CONSERVATION CENTRE

If you are a nature lover, then this is the right spot for you. This is a natural habitat for wildlife and aside the wonderful animals to view, this place is indeed a sight to behold. There are lot of interesting things to do at LCC which includes sightseeing, canopy walk, tree hous on top of the tallest iroko tree, the swamp lookout station, there are also tons of games to play like the life size chess, ludo, draught, snake and ladder and lots more. Asides this, you can decide to just chill in the popular koi and tilapia fish ponds, barbecue joint and a step down coconut drink. There is lot more than you can ask for.

2. KAPADOCCIA

I call this place, my seceret hide out. This is my favorite hideout. This is Nigeria’s first and only restaurant situated in Victoria Island in Lagos. This restaurant serves mouthwatering cuisines and intercontinental dishes. This place offers its customers unsual experiences. With its turkish themed design designs, it gives people the vibes and feeling of being in turkey. So it’s actually you visiting turkey while you are still in Nigeria, LOL!.

This place has been given so much credit for its ambience, architectural design, cuisines, customer service, and its affordability as well. No kidding! Pasta cost 10k and cocktail is almost 5k. For me it’s a 10 over 10. And most importantly, flat shoes and slippers are not allowed for ladies, You have to rock your beautiful heels.

Also Read: 5 Beautiful Souvenir Items In Nigeria For An Event

3. THE GOOD BEACH

Experience London in Lagos. That’s what I hear many say about this new beach in Lagos, lol. It’s well-lit, fun-filled and has the nicest view ever. Good beach is one cosy area that will be recommended for spouses that need a getaway location, singles that want time out to relax. It also features live band, orchestra and a whole lot. This place is beautiful and you don’t have you a choice, you just gotta visit asap.

4. NIKE ART GALLERY

Another wonderful sight you would love to behold is the Nike Art Gallery, one of the great fun places to visit in Lagos. This is Nigeria’s leading art gallery. It is also No.1 on Trip Advisor’s list of top places to visit in Lagos, Nigeria. The gallery is owned by Chief Nike Davies Okundaye. The Lagos gallery is located at 2 Elegushi Beach Road in Lekki.

This four storey gallery comprises of an art gallery and textile museum featuring over 7,000 pieces. On-site is also home to a coffee shop. Nike art gallery houses incredible beading and textiles as well as variations of art works. Excite yourself with the beautiful views, nice arts works and scintillating artefacts. Entrance here is absolutely free.

5. TAKWA BAY BEACH

This is an an exhilarating atmosphere to feel. The warm breeze, the cosy ocean, the sound of water clapping beautifully at your feet. This beach is a complete ‘oasis’ from the noise and chaos of Lagos. You would agree with me that most times especially if you stay in Lagos, you seriously need a breather and this is a highly recommended place to ease your stress. I remember my first vacation to Takwa bay at night, I really never wanted to leave, I truly enjoyed every moment and i’m most certain you would too.

6. EPE RESORT AND SPA

This is also one of the many beautiful resorts in Lagos and this resort is located in the coastal town of Epe. Epe resort is the perfect destinatino for corporate events, destination weddings, honey moons, hangouts, picnics etc. If you need a vacation or a baecation as the case maybe, then this is the right location for you. It is also equipped with a spa, neat and exotic rooms. This is a perfect get away for you and your friends, family and spouses.

7. LAKOWE LAKES AND GOLF RESORT

Lakowe lakes and golf resorts is situated in the heart of Epe. Lakowe Lakes is the perfect place for a quiet & restful getaway. The resort area has different accommodation types (cabins, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments) while the residential area has some units being used as shortlet apartments. The golf course itself is full fledged and well maintained, a perfect attraction for golfers. Some activities such as cycling (bikes provided by the resort), pedal boating and table tennis are complimentary for lodgers while additional activities such as bird watching, golf lectures for beginners and “bonfire night” are available but at a fee.

There aren’t that many things to do once at the resort but perhaps that’s the whole idea I.e. a focus on rest and relaxation. The food is pricey but tastes amazing. Lakowe is perfect for activities like cycling, morning runs, evening walks. Food-wise, you have the option of buying from the resort itself or the on-site restaurant (called The Wine Bar). Generally the staff are courteous and attentive.

On the flip side, their menu items are quite limited and also quite pricey. There’s no gym on the resort (though I understand same is under construction) and the activities list needs to be expanded a bit to prevent boredom. Overall however, it’s a lovely place and definitely recommend but for a short stay (say 3 days or a weekend).

CONCLUSION

After all the stress, hustle and bustle, you sure need a place to “relass and be taken care of” as Nigerians would say. These 7 fun places to visit in Lagos are places that will hold such much memories and you will definitely want to go back. Have fun enjoying these places. After visit and you need souvenirs to purchase, visit Bellafricana shop online to place some orders.

Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders September 15, 2022

Meet The Founder of Lilifeys Fashion and Lifestyle

Ever since she was a little girl she fell in love with fashion. Her curiosity and love turned into a passion and she made her own dreams come through by starting her business Lilifeys Fashion and Lifestyle.

Let’s meet another Bellafricana member, the founder of LILIFEY’S FASHION AND LIFESTYLE;

Please introduce yourself and your background

My name Ifeyinwa Brendan-Ndukwu, the Founder, Creative Director/CEO of LILIFEYS FASHION AND LIFESTYLE. I am from Imo State but married to BRENDAN-NDUKWU from Anambra State. I am a graduate of English Language/Literature but presently into Fashion.

Meet The Founder of Lilifeys Fashion and Lifestyle

How did you come about the brand name and what does it mean?

My Brand name LILIFEYS’ is a combination of my second name LILIAN and my first name, IFEYINWA. LILIFEYS is a reflection on what fashion means to me… Stylish, Trendy, Comfortable and Affordable. Coincidentally that’s what most women cherish.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

As a young girl I love dresses and my curiosity into how dresses are led to my fascination and passion for dressmaking. By observation and divine ordination I started making dresses by myself with just needle and thread. My dresses gradually developed into beautiful dresses that attracted people’s attention and they started ordering dresses from me.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

My niche is ‘Comfortable women wear’. I believe that a woman should be comfortable and happy in her clothes and not struggle or sustain body injuries while wearing a dress.

Also Read: Meet The Founder of Miel Clothing [Exclusive Interview]

Where do you get the inspiration for your products

My inspiration are mostly divinely ordained… I receive inspirations for most of my designs in my dreams. I am also highly inspired by nature around me such as the sky, vegetations and the woman’s body shapes.

Can you remember one of the first products you made or service you started? What makes it memorable?

The products I made as a young girl were for my Baby dolls but as an adult I remember making this lovely sleeveless, boat neckline with a gathered low waistline maxi dress with Nichem wax, sewn with needle and dress. I made this dress while I was still an undergraduate in the university.

What made this dress memorable was that it fit me so well that it attracted a lot of attention. People started noticing my sewing and my style of dressmaking. In fact my Late Mum had to buy a Hand Sewing machine to help facilitate my sewing because according to her…”why are you suffering yourself my dear daughter sewing dresses with needle and thread?”

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Some of the challenges I face in my business is high cost of production resulting from epileptic supply of electricity and high cost of powering generators. Not having enough local textiles industries for consistent design print production. Relying on importation of fabrics makes the prices of the materials exorbitant as well as non available of some materials over time. Another challenge I face is lack of expertise of the Labour. Most times when they are trained instead of staying back to work they leave. This results in low production capacity some times.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

No no, I don’t have any regrets venturing into this line of business. Fashion Designs and Dressmaking are like oxygen for me. This is one vocation I carry out effortlessly!

What is your most popular product?

Circle pants.

Meet the founder of Lilifeys fashion and lifestyle, exclusive interview of bellafricana member

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

To a large extent, my African heritage has a lot of influence on my work. I used a lot of handwoven and hand-dyed fabrics for my clothes.

What are some of your short term goals and long term goals, both in your business and life in general

My short term goal is to consistently meet the needs of my local customers satisfactorily. My long term goal is to export my products internationally to Europe, America, Canada, and South Korea.

What would people be surprised to learn about you

People would be surprised to know that I was a Secondary school English Language and English Phonetics Teacher .

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

Food vendor/ Caterer

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

The advise I would give to anyone starting out in the Fashion industry is to have a good knowledge of the art of Fashion designs and dressmaking so as not to be caught on the level of mediocrity. To succeed in this industry ‘good is not enough when best is possible!’

To connect and meet the founder of Lilifeys Fashion and Lifestyle, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: lilifeys_fashion1

Whatsapp: +2349064774851

Bellafricana published in Skincare September 15, 2022

6 Natural Skincare Products for different skin types

Matolo face wash on bellafricana marketplace

Just as our fingerprints differ, our skin types differ too with the type of natural skincare products used. What might be most suitable for one person can be harming for another. I use a skin body butter but on the other hand same cream tends to be more oily for another person who uses it.

It is very important to understand your skin and know which natural skincare products in Nigeria will be most suitable for your skin type.

These are 6 Skincare Products for different skin types I will highly recommend:

1. ASAKWA BLACK SOAP

Asakwe soap is an indigenous African product made with the finest ingredient locally sourced from in Nigeria. It initially means ‘bathe’ among the local tribe of the Igbos. This skin care product has been tested and trusted, if you so desire a glow and rejuvenation of your skin, then this is perfect for you. It is infused with Tumeric and its perfect for light skinned people. it also contains essential oils that helps to tone and brighten the skin. its most suitable for dry skin. This is a product of Modara naturals.

2. BAOBAB OIL

This is a product of organic life plus, one special attraction to this brand is how will it helps in restoring and rejuvenating dry skin. Baobab seed most times are edible and it is also used in beauty products. It also can be used to boost hair growth. This particular ingredient does wonders in several aspect, it contains antioxidants and Vitamin E and it is a great anti dote to dry and cracky skin types.

3. ANTI PIMPLE

I was a chronic attacker of acne, it got me really depressed until I found this life saver, Anti pimples cream by Janeli Global. This product works super for all skin types. Apart from taking care of your acne issues, it also helps your skin look flawless and less oily. its very much recommend for people wilt oily skin. Janeli global helped me restore my confidence back with this anti pimple and anti ageing cream.

4. BODY GLOW

Body glow is another wonderful product I would recommend because even though I haven’t used this, but from reveiws I have heard so far, this product does magic to the skin. If you wanna drip in finness and you want your sin to be silk as milk, then try using this wonderful product from Treda organics.

5. BRILHO OIL

Brilho oil which was coined from the Angola Portuguese native, means “to glow”. This too is specially made by Modara naturals, I specifically recommend this product because it is made from the finest and most nourishing products. it also contains moisturizing and regenerating ingredients such as Avocado oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil and carrot oil. All these essential natural ingredients help to awaken and smoothen the skin. It works well on dry skin as it helps to keep it bright and shiny.

6. FACE WASH

This is essentially for the face. it is infused with good and natural ingredients that will live the face radiant and smooth. I once visited a dermatologist who once advised that body treatment should not be used as facial treatment. I found that interesting too because lot of people I have met will complain how a product is good for their body but not good for their faces, that is why Matolo Botanicals has made this special blend to work well with the face.

CONCLUSION

These are my top 6 Natural Skincare Products for different skin types that I will most likely recommend. Though there are still other products that does great to the skin too. Click here to check other amazing products that will work well for your skin.

Bellafricana published in Travel September 15, 2022

6 Essential Travel Items For Your Next Journey

You would agree with me that this year has welcomed the highest number of migrations to other countries. With this rate of travel, one needs to have certain travel items in place to be able to have a comfortable and convenient travel experience.

Especially for international travel, where one can spend over 5 to 10 hours or above, your comfort is paramount. So, I am going to show you 5 essential travel items for your next trip that are very necessary.

HEAD PILLOWS

This I must say, is a must have. Especially for long distance travels, this pillow will not only help correct your sitting position, but it will give you ease, comfort and convenience. And it can also help you rest your back properly and prevents fatigue. This serves same purpose your bed pillow serves; it is also referred to as cervical pillow because it helps the backbone by providing comfort to the neck and also improve rest. Pillow talk is the designer is this neck pillow. In order not to experience back pains over a long distance, I advise you purchase this.

2. DUFFLE TRAVEL BAG

These are very essential, for someone who wants to travel light then this is absolutely a good choice. With its different compartment, this can handle a lot of items and still doesn’t look like you carried too much baggage. It’s stylish and durable as it’s made with long lasting leather. The infusion of the Aso-oke African fabric makes it look more elegant. Ethnik Africa, the brain behind this beautiful travel bag, adds royalty to any craft. This bag is available in different colours and sizes.

3. THROW BLANKETS

This too is advisable for any form of travel be a short or long distance. This blanket is thick enough to protect you from cold or windy environment. This too is attractive and has a beautiful look. It also of high quality and can be used at home too. frankly, Ethnik Africa is well known for producing long lasting and durable materials like this throw blanket using Aso-oke.

4. BUCKET HAT

Bucket hats are really beautiful to help you adorn your look, since you will need to be sitting for a longer till you reach your destination, you can still look stylish and elegant with this touch up accessory. If you don’t need to look too over the top but edgy and classic in your flight, then this will do the trick. it also protects your ear and head from cold too. This is another exceptional travel piece from Ethnik Africa.

Also read: 5 Fabulous Home Decorative Items Using African Fabrics

5. NOSE MASK

We know that this virus called Corona still is plaguing in most country, and it is still advisable to for all to stay masked up and well protected. This nose mask, well decorated and styled up. This is a good replacement for the boring look mask. Add a touch of beauty to your fashion by covering up with this beautiful mask. Pillow talks crafted these beautiful designs.

6. HANDBAG

These handbags are made by O’Eclat designs. These is also good thought optional for travel. It will help safe keep important items you might be needing at the train stations, parks or airports. so instead of having to box everything up in a big luggage box, this will make searching for important documents easily. These handbags combined with nice fabric and well patterned leather, also adds glamour to your outfit.

CONCLUSION

I bet these 6 essential travel items will be planned for your next trip. Like Nigerians would say, If you are ready to “japa”(leave the country), these items are quite useful to carry along with you. If you need more items to choose from, click on this link to get updated .

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Conclusion

1. HYDRATING FACE CREAM

2. ANTI-ACNE CREAM

3. FACE OIL

4. GLOW FACE WASH

5. FACE WASH

6. FACIAL SUNSCREEN CREAM

CONCLUSION

CONCLUSION

HAIR COSMETICS FOR BABIES

2. BODY WASH

3. FULL SKIN CARE KITS

4. PLAY TOYS

5. CROCHET TUTU

6. SCENTED CANDLES

CONCLUSION

TWISTING BRAIDS

CORNROWS BRAIDS

BANTU KNOTS

TREDA ORGANIC HAIR KITS

BLACK SOAP SHAMPOO

CONCLUSION

1B. AFRICAN INSPIRED PILLOWS

Also read: Top 6 Afrocentric Gift Ideas

CONCLUSION

1. LEKKI CONSERVATION CENTRE

2. KAPADOCCIA

3. THE GOOD BEACH

4. NIKE ART GALLERY

5. TAKWA BAY BEACH

6. EPE RESORT AND SPA

7. LAKOWE LAKES AND GOLF RESORT

CONCLUSION

Let’s meet another Bellafricana member, the founder of LILIFEY’S FASHION AND LIFESTYLE;

How did you come about the brand name and what does it mean?

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Where do you get the inspiration for your products

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

What is your most popular product?

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

What are some of your short term goals and long term goals, both in your business and life in general

What would people be surprised to learn about you

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

These are 6 Skincare Products for different skin types I will highly recommend:

1. ASAKWA BLACK SOAP

2. BAOBAB OIL

3. ANTI PIMPLE

Also read: 5 Popular Black-Owned Skincare Brands In 2022

4. BODY GLOW

5. BRILHO OIL

6. FACE WASH

CONCLUSION

HEAD PILLOWS

2. DUFFLE TRAVEL BAG

3. THROW BLANKETS

4. BUCKET HAT

Also read: 5 Fabulous Home Decorative Items Using African Fabrics

5. NOSE MASK

6. HANDBAG

CONCLUSION

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