NOSIZWE “I’m sure we’ll have another conversation where I’ll share in detail, the story of dear Abike, but for tonight, let us talk about why I am a ‘full time housewife’ like you described. When you look at Naomi for instance, what do you see? You might see an adorable and brave kid but, what…
According to the United Nations (UN), there are about 258 million widows around the world, and nearly one in ten widows live in extreme poverty! Sadly, people do lose their loved ones, and this can leave a huge void in the lives of the ones left behind. For many women around the world, especially in…
LYDIA Lydia looked through her window for the zillionth time. Her patience had worn thin. She was guaranteed to be late if her Uber driver failed on their agreed time. She frantically put on her shoes as she dialled his number again, and when the call connected, she went straight into thug mode. Lydia looked…
LYDIA By the morning of her lunch date with Rumi, Lydia had developed cold feet. She was not sure anymore, if she was ready to undergo such a rigorous journey of learning, unlearning and re-learning. She doubted in her ability to articulate her thoughts, and most especially, why she was always angry. She called her…
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Amelia’s relevance cannot be overstated and that’s all thanks to the level of impact she has had in her sphere so far. Her deep understanding of issues makes her a thought leader in her industry and a global icon consulted far and wide. Her ability to duplicate herself and galvanise her team to achieve above and beyond, epitomised the values and global appeal of this 59 year old woman. Accomplishing a lot in the last 2 decades despite raising 3 young men of exemplary character mostly on her own (since the passing of her husband 10 years into their marriage), makes her inspirational. She continues her role as a visiting lecturer in the faculty of Public Health whilst serving on several boards.
A 51 – 69yr old is inspirational, insightful, a visionary and relevant
Daring but reserved, savvy and yet still naive, these are the troubles of 21 year old Rumi. A beautiful fashion model and law student who prides in her astute understanding of the social and digital space. A little while back, she was sure she had figured out all she needed to know about boys, but bumped into big challenges, one of which was a major heartbreak. ‘What is it with these creatures anyway?’ she often wondered. She had trust issues and insecurities, doubted her abilities and stumbled a bit along the way. She was opportune to meet the right mentors at the right time and is gaining clarity over her fears. Now she is set for the brightest future ever, one she is sure would not be easy to attain, but she is preparing for.
A 19 – 25yr old should be elegant, articulate, savvy and authentic
Fatou just crossed the notable age of 16 and is very excited about her future. It was tough losing her parents at age 10 to an unfortunate peaceful-turned-violent protest for which gunmen involvement was unplanned. Her uncle took her and her younger brother to live with him and his family and she has adhered to the rules of her new home since then. With the consciousness to work twice as hard as her peers, she has excelled in school work, is becoming adept in her primary hobby of sewing, and is still committed to her monthly volunteer work. She is blossoming into a fine young woman and is determined to pursue a career in investigative journalism.
A 13 – 18yr old should be adaptable, submissive, industrious and have clarity of purpose
With a mind that always seemed to work in overdrive, people know Imani to be the person you call when in a jam. A 41 year old who seemed to always have the solution for any problem, and poured herself so selflessly and so often. Little wonder she is such a gem to the people around her and is rightly praised. Never wanting her achievements in the tech industry overly publicised, and going about her business in all modesty, she gets things done with grit and precision, traits she claims were learned from her parents who served in the airforce. She never does all the superwoman stunts to the detriment of her wellbeing however, knowing self-care is essential and she can only give what she has herself. In typical fashion, the infusion of these values and others to her family and those in her company is underway.
A 36 – 50yr old should be tactical, dogged, humble
Iverem recently received a lifetime achievement award for leaving a lasting footprint on the fashion world. She is beaming with smiles as she reminisces on the thoughtful and heart-warming speeches directed her way, at the surprise party organised by some members of the ministry of women affairs to mark her 70th birthday. With the eventful year winding to a close, she is looking forward to the 1-week boat cruise experience on the Mediterranean sea, a small segment of a well thought out holiday with family and friends. A trip masterminded by her children, though she initially wanted to enjoy the quiet and freshness of Ikogosi Warm Springs.
A 70-80yr old should leave an indelible print on the world with her values
Immortality is the genius to move others long after you yourself have stopped moving…. Frank Rooney
When her time on this side of eternity is over, Olivia can rest assured she lived a full and worthy life. It is the holidays once more and she is meeting her 2 newest great grandchildren for the first time! With everyone together, the young children of the Abbey dynasty can scarcely wait for post dinner time to gather around the feet of their Matriarch and hear enthralling tales of events from her past. Through all the festivities, Olivia is thrilled and grateful being surrounded by generations of loved ones in her latter days at Christmastime. She still volunteers at Sunday school to keep herself engaged and vibrant.
A woman beyond 80yrs of age should be happy with and proud of everything she has produced
Noziswe might be accused of not blessing the corporate world fully with her skills, but this 32 year old cannot be accused of not doing a terrific job with whatever she sets her mind to do. The current happenings and exposures that could easily be detrimental to a formative mind, inspired stellar accountant Noziswe to make the commitment to be very hands on raising her twins. Being their primary caregiver the last 6 years and ensuring a peaceful home became her mission, pride and joy. She reignited her passion for cooking 2 years ago, initially sharing recipes with just friends but, with the inflow of nice reviews and major encouragement by her husband, she took it to the next level and began a blog that has taken a life of its own! With a current international following, the eloquent teeny weeny afro beauty has made a dual career of reigniting taste buds and taking on the role of a financial adviser for the occasional client, as she keeps honing her skills and preparing to fully provide top value in the marketplace when her children are older.
A 26-35yr old should be competent, proactive, innovative and strategic
Here is the lovely 7 year old Naomi. She noticed Peter who lives up the street and sits across from her in class, had not been to school that week. She drew the attention of the teacher who informed her of his illness, and this prompted her to use some of the emergency money dad gave her to buy a juice pack and make a quick stop after school to her neighbour’s house. Peter’s mum so touched by Naomi’s visit, ushers her in and takes her to see Peter who has been coated head to toe with calamine lotion. ‘Does our favourite TV show need a new ghost?’ Naomi says as she offers her gift which Peter receives chuckling. They gist briefly about the current ongoings in school. Naomi is thanked for lifting his spirit and heads home where she is quick to do her homework, and begin helping to set the dinner table. These activities are now done with more ease to the joyful relief of her mum, who put a halt to her long hours in-front of the TV and iPad months ago, ensuring she learns right priorities.
A 5-12yr old should be empathic, courageous and witty
This is Kesha; a bubbly and delightful 4 year old girl who loves to play with everyone she comes across. Her laughter is infectious and her nanny adores her. Her mum says she kicked a lot in the womb and thought she might make a good career out of martial arts! Despite her immense energy, she shows restraint and has overgrown the terrible-twos syndrome. She knows to stow her toys safely in the store box in her room and away from the floor of dad’s study as instructed. When no one was looking, she accidentally knocked down the vase on the living room table and it shattered to pieces. She soberly announced what happened to her mum as soon as she returned from work.
A 0-4yr old should be energetic, joyful, disciplined and honest.
