A beat… two, one, three, two, two, one, three, two. A song – haunting and captivating – full of longing and dark promises. And a blood-curdling scream filled the air…
Kefe showed no sign that she was aware that somebody was watching her. After several minutes had passed she looked up, and she saw a young man with dreamy eyes and a killer smile – oh he is lovely, she thought, pleased with herself.
She blew him a kiss and pretty boy was taken aback – not what he was expecting. She laughed and waved him over.
“Sorry! I did not mean to disturb you, I was just listening…I heard you drumming and singing all the way from my father’s farm. You are very talented. I think yours is the most beautiful voice I have ever heard.” Pretty boy said in a single breath.
“Thank you. And don’t worry, you did not disturb me.”
He was younger than she had thought. All those big muscles must be from years of working on a farm.
‘My name is Akpan. Nice to meet you. Please, what language was that song? I’ve never heard it before.”
“Delta – Igbo.”
“Oh. That’s lovely. What’s your name?”
“Kefe.”
“It’s beautiful, just like your voice.” Akpan said shyly.
Kefe giggled.
Akpan was quick to forgive her for laughing at him because it was the most beautiful laughter he had ever heard. In fact everything about her was beautiful. She was an angel.
“Are you alone?” She asked him.
Akpan looked as if she had insulted him.
“Of course, I’m alone. I have been working on Papa’s farm for years… Besides I’m a man and I can take care of myself. You are a woman. You shouldn’t be out here by yourself.” He replied, mildly offended.
“I didn’t mean it that way.” Kefe said. Wonderful…he’s a fiesty one. Ah! He will be a mouthful, she thought.
“Well…okay. You don’t look like you have ever done a day of farming and this place is very far from town. Did you get lost?
“I was searching for food.”
Akpan frowned. “You don’t have money to buy food in town? And it’s not the time of harvest…but it doesn’t matter. I brought some food with me, enough to feed two people. It’s back at farm. I’ll share it with you.”
She looked down at her palms. They were red and stinging. She must have been singing and drumming for a long while. Maybe she shouldn’t have come this far out but it was harder to find deserted places in town. Because of the mess she makes whenever she eats, cleaning up was too much work.
Kefe looked back up, “Thank you.”
“Let’s go to the farm.”
“It’s okay. I already have food.”
“You have? I don’t see any food here.” He looked around. “Kefe, no need to pretend. I don’t have a problem sharing my food with you.”
“You are so kind but I’m not pretending.” She said licking her lips.
Akpan stared at her mouth. Her lips were full and red, her teeth white and perfect. The tongue was so pink and for a moment he forgot what they were talking about.
He scratched his head. “Okay.” “Ehm, will you sing again? I think I will die a happy man if only I can hear you sing again.”
Kefe laughed softly.
“You are right about the dying part.” She said.
A beat… a song…and a blood-curdling scream filled the air.
When a person I just met and was getting to know asked me, “Who are you?” I was taken aback by the question for a second. I quickly recovered and told him my name because that was the answer I could come up with. His reply was something like this, “That’s not who you are. Do you know that there are other people out there that have the same name as you do? So, your name can’t be who you are, because it’s just a name.” In my head, I was like, “Eskise me brah! What do you mean? Okay, maybe, I didn’t answer your question, but my name is a part of who I am, at least give credit to that.” Sigh. Well, if you ask me what has been on my mind, I’ll tell you that I’m concerned about the woman that I am. I couldn’t answer the question truly because I had no answer. It’s funny that uncertainties about myself pop up unexpectedly. I am conflicted about the choices that I’ve made, experience fears when I think of starting something new, and just find myself stuck in a whirlpool of what-ifs. There are times that I stand as the champion of my story and other times I play the villain. Why else will there be a constant war within me about who I am? Who else feels this way? Let me know in the comments.
Today, I’m so excited to introduce our guest, Ogoke Oluebube – no wait, before you say I am always excited, for real I’m over the moon that I got to interview her. Not to sound like a tv commercial, but you know that I’m all about first meetings. Well, meeting Ebube was one of the highlights of this year. Okay, storytime. It was a beautiful day and I was excited about working with an NGO, Led Initiative, on the launch of a library for their latest project (Lead 2 Read). So, this amazing group of people had volunteered to make a library for a Boy’s Correctional Home. After many weeks of designing, decorating the place, and asking people for supplies, the library was ready. I was the photographer covering the launch and it was a first for me (I will share the pictures). Little did I know that the day would hold more firsts. I walked into one of the rooms and Ebube had a spread of books on the table. I only had eyes for the books because they were new and shiny. While I was taking pictures of the book, she started talking about how she purchased them, and how many bookstores she visited. Maybe I forgot the books and started paying attention to her. A few minutes later we had introduced ourselves and were both reading nursery rhymes to each other, and laughing so hard at our slip-ups. The best part, it felt natural to be that way with her. Now, that’s something I won’t ever forget in a long time. Because of this interview, I’ve gotten to know Ebube a little more and I still have stars in my eyes (even though it took her forever to do the interview. Note to everyone else, don’t behave like Ebube).
Q. Can You Introduce Yourself?
A. I am Ogoke Oluebube Chinazo. I am an uptight recovering Perfectionist, learning to loosen up my uptight personality. I’m currently exploring life’s hardest questions by trying to view the world from God’s perspective (not quite an easy task). At sunrise I am a Business Lawyer (for Startups and SMEs), at sunset, I am an aspiring Novelist, Poet and, an Apologetic obsessed with the Historical, Literary, and Creative Arts. On a good day, the perfectionist in me expects a certain standard of morality and uprightness in the conduct of everyone, but the explorer in me just wants to fit in and get to know people for who they are.
Ogoke Oluebube Chinazo
Q. Why do you do your job, and would you rather do something else?
I have an obsession with seeing small businesses and startups grow from inception to a multinational (yet to see that) – hence the passion for my job in proffering business solutions to startups and SMEs. I position them to take advantage of the legal and financial structures put in place to encourage the growth of SMEs and startups. While my job as a Creative Writer, Poet, and Apologist, is more like a ministry than a job. If I am to do something else, I would love to be a Freelance Journalist and would love to travel to the ends of the world to report stories unheard of or that no one is reporting.
Q. What’s your idea of real success?
A. I measure success by how well my actions and words impact people, businesses, communities, and states. Even if it’s only one person.
Q. When do you feel the most confident about your work?
A. It speaks for itself. I am diligent and put my heart into my work. I provide my clients with everything that they want, therefore the result speaks for itself.
Q. What have you accomplished so far that made you so proud?
A. Writing and publishing my short stories and entrepreneurial articles.
Q. Can you describe who knows you best?
A. I can’t think of anyone at the moment. But would love to think that my future husband would know me best (whoever he is lol)
Q. What was the last book you read and what can you say about it?
A. I am currently in between books at the moment so can’t say. Nevertheless, I can recommend one of my favorites reads this year (as I have read quite a lot), lol. ‘His Only Wife’ by Peace Adzo Media, is a perfect read for every young woman that have expectations about love and marriage. The book made me realize that sometimes love is about letting the person go.
Ogoke Oluebube Chinazo
Q. What pet peeve would you make illegal if you could and why?
A. Bureaucracy in civil service is a poor excuse for internal control and creating jobs in the civil service.
Q. What do you appreciate about yourself and what would you like to change?
A. I appreciate my mind and its thirst for knowledge. I would love to change my lazy and nonchalant attitude to opportunities I deem less important. I mean that I no longer want to undermine the little opportunities that I get – “Don’t try to eat the big size of cake when you have not learned how to swallow the small size.
I have an obsession with seeing small businesses and startups grow from inception to a multinational (yet to see that) – hence the passion for my job in proffering business solutions to startups and SMEs, by positioning them to take advantage of the legal and financial structures put in place to encourage the growth of SMEs and startups. While my job as a Creative Writer, Poet, and Apologist, is more like a ministry than a job.
Ogoke Oluebube Chinazo on Thursday Talk Series
Q. If you could, what’s the one thing you do change about the world?
A. Let every human harness his/her inherent ability to reason rationally. I believe that we do not reason as we should and prefer to follow trends. We set aside rational thinking and let others think for us instead. In my experience, those that reason, stand out.
Thank you so much Ebube for the interview and for the book that you recommended (your reminder to send the book to me). I wish you all the best with your job and look forward to reading your publications. To everyone that stuck to the end, thank you. I wish y’all a terrific Thursday.
Hello guys, let’s play a game. No need to panic it’s not Squid Game guys. This game will help us understand why the little things are impactful.
I want you to read the sentence below, and as you do so count the number of Fs that you find.
Awesome. How many Fs did you find? 3, 4, 5, or 6?
Did you perhaps miss the two-letter words ending in Fs?
Feel free to check the sentence again.
Matt Abraham from Stanford Graduate School of Business used this game as an analogy in his lecture – Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques – to teach his class the little things that can affect speaking in public spontaneously. According to him, “It’s the little things that make a big difference in being effective.”
If your answer was incorrect do not think that you are not smart (olodo). However, it’s as a result of not paying attention to the teeny weeny things.
Little things can make a big difference
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that neglecting the little things will only have consequences in spontaneous speaking. Can you not recall a time when it was the little things that kept you sane?
The other day I was washed, pressed dressed, and ready to leave the house. I was going to be late if I did not leave on time, traffic being what it is in town. I was going to take the bus but couldn’t find my keys. I hear you groaning too. It is one of the most infuriating situations a person can find themselves in.
I was disgruntled and pulled at my hair as I searched all over the apartment for the keys. I went back to the table where we kept the keys and stared blankly at the empty spot where the keys should have been. I was late and bemoaned my existence.
The takeaway is that you need to pay close attention to those little things that can be easily overlooked. They come back to bite you in the butt – take a huge chunk too. They may likely ruin your plans. So keep it in mind that doing the little things make a huge difference between getting it right and making a mess.
If only I had returned the keys to the table when I got home from work the previous day. It was such a little thing to do that would save me time and energy.
For you, it could be taking a 20mins break from work every day, or waking up early to meditate and plan your day, or it could be a smile from a stranger, or wearing your favorite shirt, or cooking a meal for your spouse, or staying consistent with your exercise routine, walking the dog in the evening, tending to your plants, feeling wanted and loved and so on.
These little things can a big difference in your day, your relationship, your work, and your life in general.
Conclusion
The little things are called little for a reason. They are those things that you see and yet you don’t see. You may not be able to realize it until it may be too late. By paying attention to yourself and your surrounding you’ll be able to notice the little things that you miss. Spend time doing these little things that give you pleasure, makes you stronger, lifts your spirit, improves your productivity and better your life.
Let’s play a game. Not Squid Game guys (I haven’t watched the movie but a lot of you are very loud about it). This game is simple and nonfatal, please. I want you to read the sentence below, and as you do so count the number of Fs that you find.
Awesome. How many Fs did you find? 3, 4, 5, or 6? Click here to see the answer and find out whether you are smart or not. Did you get the right answer? 😁😏
Moving on. Today, I’ll be introducing Augustine Ojeh. Let me confess. I have reason to believe that he gets high from giving expression and meaning to the world around him with words. Having recently made his acquaintance, I have no informed impression of his person. However, I can tell you that I deduced he’s a craftsman who has a sizzling relationship with words by stalking hisInstagram page.Yes, that’s right! I did that. I was curious you see, and best believe that now I want to know even more about him.😂 I’m aware that he’s an earnest coach – ready to teach and also learn. He’s a book-lover, has no pet that I know of, is a certified night owl, and is an amazing writer and editor.
Q. Can you introduce yourself and what you do?
A. Augustine Ojeh here. Somewhere deep down, I reaffirm myself to be a genius but, in reality, I’m just another nobody, scratching his way upwards and seeking clarity of purpose. In my quest for clarity, I read books. I wouldn’t say it’s been a lot of books but enough to heighten my curiosity and desire to teach. What better way to learn than to teach? So, I’m a writer, editor, and writing coach. I write about business growth, global and workplace sustainability, diversity (gender, racial, and cultural), economics, and a pinch of psychology (for the love of it). However, I’m a questioner of illogical religious doctrines and the credulity of its believers. Some (including clergymen) have called me an Atheist but I’ll excuse their assertions to their purportedly ill understandings of Atheism.
Augustine Ojeh
Q. Why do you do your job, and would you rather do something else?
A. I wouldn’t say that I have a job. Just as footballers never called playing soccer a job, writing has never been a job to me. At least, I’ve never seen it that way and probably never will. I’d do something else if it has a negative opportunity cost, like starting and building a business which I’m already doing (won’t say more than that). However, I doubt if any of that would stop me from writing.
Q. What’s your idea of real success and how can it be achieved?
A. The “real” seems weird. Success is never faked. And, in my opinion, there’s no rigid formula to achieving it. I have several ideas of success, depending on what area of my life is under the magnifying lenses. In marriage, parenting, career, mental development, and all others, the ideas of success change. The methods to achieving each also vary. In marriage and mental development, for instance, stern principles are important while in parenting and career, flexibility and amenability to change are virtues.
Q. What is your morning routine like?
A. a. Wake up by 9:00 AM. That alarm is annoying and the funny thing is that the 9 am alarm description reads, “OJEH, YOU’VE GOT 1,440 MINUTES TODAY. NOW, GET IN THE TOILET, YOU PISS OF SHIT!”
b. Sit on the toilet seat for 30 minutes (maybe drop some poops if there’s any coming. Eewww! But it does feel good.)
c. Bath right after.
d. Brew some coffee in the kitchen.
e. Read three important newsletters [from the New York Times (US), The Economist (UK), and Punch (NG)] while I wait for coffee.
f. Read and respond to emails.
g. Update my to-dos for the day.
Q. What two things do you think of the most each day and why?
A. I’m not sure there are any two particular things that I think about each day. However, my mind has been occupied by the book project that I’m working on recently. And why does that occupy my mind? Of course, you know. I think the second thing that fills my head is the business that I’m creating (but I won’t say more). It’s on my mind often because it should be. Nevertheless, I’ve got my family sitting pretty at the corner of my mind. They never leave there.
Q. How do you manage to deal with stress as you work?
A. I use the gym when the spirit leads but mostly in the evenings. I take long walks to clear my head also. And I play snooker as often as I can. It’s an opportunity to meet new faces and share a good laugh. It does help deal with the stress, no doubt. Chess also comes in handy when I’m a bit unhappy or frustrated.
Q. What do you feel is the difference between living and existing?
A. The difference is our perception of time. For those existing, time travels through them. So, they often sit pretty as time rides along. Living puts you in a race against time. It gives essence to time. It’s the reason 24 hours is too short for one day. If only it could be 28. Pfffft! But a jolly race against time without prizes to pick at random stops is a spokeless wheel.
Augustine Ojeh
Q. What was the last book you read and what can you say about it?
A. Perfectly Confident by Don A. Moore (Ph.D.). I think Professor Moore does have a lot to say about the dangers of blind optimism and unbacked confidence. I’d say the book is excellently written and laced with relatable research, accurate accounts of events, and exciting exercises to help you stay on track.
Q. Do you think we have a greater purpose or are we just waiting for our turn to die?
A. I think we are on a lap to create our heaven or hell. When this lap is over, we would return to the life that we created, clueless about how and when we created them. So, yes, we do have a purpose albeit its greatness is relative.
I wouldn’t say that I have a job. Just as footballers never called playing soccer a job, writing has never been a job to me. At least, I’ve never seen it that way and probably never will. I’d do something else if it has a negative opportunity cost, like starting and building a business which I’m already doing (won’t say more than that). However, I doubt if any of that would stop me from writing.
Augustine Ojeh on Thursday Talk Series
Q. What is that thing that you see as an obstacle that can stop you from having success?
A. Death.
Thank you very much for the interview, Augustine. I’m really glad to have met you and I look forward to all the amazing things you are set to do. For everyone still reading, thank you for being here. Wish you a spectacular Thursday.
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Do you know that pattern is one of the elements of composition in photography?
I saw a Bollywood movie yesterday and as always their storyline is intriguing, and the acting was superb and hilarious. The name is A Magical Love Story, and it’s about love, family, fate, curses, deceit, and magic. We know real-life is not the same as a screenplay but we do all we can each day to find happiness. There is no substitute for trying again and again. Sometimes life is to be enjoyed and other times it picks you up, does a little spin, and sets you down. You can be sure that it will take a while before you will be able to find your balance – you will eventually find it. Let have this in mind, “Nature has given us all the pieces required to achieve exceptional wellness and health, but has left it to us to put these pieces together.”—Diane McLaren. Whether you believe that love/life is magical, it’s up to you to write your own story.
Today I’m introducing Tobe and I’ve found him to be one of those people (rare) who are completely honest with themselves. This makes him able to interpret his feelings without trying to convince himself otherwise. He pays attention to details, especially in his work, and always tries to find a balance between business and personal life – to the best of his ability. In his relationship with people, he is understanding and reliable, makes amazing connections (he always knows a guy). I can’t remember our first meeting but we’ve had several easy and open-minded conversations. That said, he’s the first to start conversations with people – he still hasn’t realized that he has an amazing gift of relating with people – even strangers. He is a goal-getter and an exceptional manager, and when it comes to having fun he gets into the mood 100%.
Trivia on Tobe
- A foodie
- Loves to dance
- An Arsenal fan
Q. Can you introduce yourself and what you do?
A. My name is Tobenna Afamefuna Nnamdi Amechi. Yes, I do not have an English name and for a while, I didn’t like it. However, today I am proud of my Igbo names because each of them has specific meanings which are relevant to life and living. I am a photographer and I run a photography business in Lagos, Nigeria.
Tobenna Amechi
Q. Why do you do your job, and would you rather do something else?
I started the business because it was a skill I had and I needed to make money while waiting to get full-time employment. I wasn’t also so bombed with the idea of working for someone except for having the idea of ‘corporate work’ at the time and being responsible. Over time, the reasons for being in business have grown from money-making and now emotional and core business principles. At some point, I just wanted to make money, other times I just wanted to be happy. There was a period it was powered by how people felt when they got served by my business. Now all of those things have faded, and I am more interested in building a business that solves clients’ problems while meeting the needs of the individuals offering the service. There are days in the cause of running this business that I felt I would rather be doing an actual 9-5, step out every day and do actual work, and then come back. I have gone ahead to even apply for jobs on some days. In the end, I am still here going through the motions and believing. I am a corporate guy. I have an affinity for emails, suits, ties, warm regards, etc. It excites me, and I sincerely want to experience it, if I get the opportunity, either by building it into my own business or getting that actual job and maybe just doing it for 6 months. For me, the travails of being a business owner are always looming. There are busy days, lazy days, and days I question my existence and relevance to both myself and the universe. I like activity – purposeful activity – hence I feel very uncomfortable when I am not doing anything. Why do I currently do what I do? I am not sure I know anymore. I believe many entrepreneurs have gone through this phase too. However, I am at the point where I want to prove my relevance to myself. I want to be sure I am not just existing, and inconsequential to the happenings of life.
Images by Wise Visuals
Q. What two things do you think of the most each day and why?
Growth – I am really scared of not measuring up to my mates, of poverty and stagnant.
Relevance – I want to make a mark in peoples lives I don’t want to have just existed, I want to have touched lives so when I die in the next 80 years, people can have good testimonies about me.
Money – to make more and never lack while giving to people in need.
Love – I feel alone most times, I need a girlfriend in my life.
Sex – How I am not having it and wish to get married quickly so I can indulge without guilt
Family – current and future.
Heaven – How I try not to do the many different things I could be doing that seem normal but will cost me eternity, I can’t go to hell Biko.
Q. What is the best thing about what you do?
A. Sincerely, the best thing about it right now is delivering to the clients’ satisfaction and the consequent balance that comes. Of course, making great images satisfy me, and this was the best thing at some point but not now making great images also means the client would be satisfied.
Q.What do you appreciate about yourself and what would you like to change?
A. I appreciate my soft nature which makes me want to do good for people all the time. I also would like to change it, to be a little more strong-willed, not caring what people will say and a lot of other things.
Q. What have you accomplished so far that has made you proud?
A. A little while ago, I was in a virtual meeting with my staff. I looked at my computer screen and saw their names registered and I realized how blessed I was to have two individuals on my team. I am proud to have been able to build Wise Visuals by God’s grace from a one-person team to where it is now. I am proud and grateful for it.
Q. What was the last book you read and what can you say about it?
A. Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. There is no successful person who didn’t have opportunities handed to them, in most cases they didn’t realize they were opportunities that would make them world-famous. However, they still made the best out of the opportunities that were presented to them, putting in the time and work needed to be great at what they did, clocking their 10,000 hours of work to be excellent. In light of this, I figure that everyone is presented with a series of opportunities in their lifetime, we are tasked to view each season as an opportunity and make the best of it. Achieving expertise at something requires you to have put in much time work approximately 10,000 hours, which the successful people we know put in both voluntarily and involuntarily as a result of the opportunities they were presented with. If this is true which does make sense, then intentional practice over time helps the mastery of and success at one’s craft.
Q. What do you feel is the difference between living and existing?
A. The major difference is impact and self-satisfaction. When you live, you affect lives, small and big and you are happy and self-satisfied doing that.
Over time, the reasons for being in business have grown from money-making and now emotional and core business principles. At some point, I just wanted to make money, other times I just wanted to be happy. There was a period it was powered by how people felt when they got served by my business. Now all of those things have faded, and I am more interested in building a business that solves clients’ problems while meeting the needs of the individuals offering the service
Amechi Tobenna on Thursday Talk Series
Q. What is that thing that you see as an obstacle which can stop you from having success?
A. Inconsistency. I find that I can start things and most times I don’t know how to finish or sustain them. Knowing this is a challenge, has also posed an inhibition to start for me, because I don’t want to start and not finish.
Q. If like a movie your life up to this point is played for you to watch, describe how you’d feel about it?
A. I’d feel how I am feeling now, unsatisfied and some level of regret. Grateful for the wins and optimism and faith for a better ending.
Thank you so much Tobenna for the interview and I hope you find what gives you satisfaction. And thank you everyone for sticking around. Have a blissful Thursday.
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“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”
So, I wrote a poem for the first time in many months and want to share it with you. Yet again I am looking forward to this month, and grateful to have had an awesome start. I pray October stays kind to me and to you.
Okay, enjoy the poem, bye.✌️🏾
Under dark skies City lights sparkle like stars But soon the sun will come To chase away wispy dreams
Of magic and spells Conjurings and potions Of wizards and witches And freshly mown grass
Deep in dungeons Ancient powers stir Waiting to be awakened On the day of the dead
To walk among the living And feel life throbbing Blood hot and red Awakens sinful pleasures
These are the last days of fall For soon winter comes Bringing endless night And warmth will be no more
Life is really funny. Previously, my biggest challenge was starting a blog, and now it’s trying to keep up with my blog. I don’t even want to talk about where my head has been these days. They say most writers write from experience, theirs or others. For me, a lot of what I write comes from my experiences. I’ve come to realize that it takes a lot of effort for me not to translate my emotions and thoughts into my work. Not everything that I write is doom and gloom but as humans the things that hurt us tend to cling the most. Well, I have good news to chase away the bad vibes. I covered a bridal shower last week and it was so much fun. Also, the pictures I took turned out to be awesome and I got great feedback from the client. I know I mostly put up pictures I took with my phone but I’ll make an exception today. The good news is that I’ll be sharing the images I took from the bridal shower at the end of the interview. I’m so excited that I’m getting better at photography and look forward to breaking records😂
Today’s guest is Chinenye, and she’s one of a kind. I call her Tiney (she’s got ropes for limbs) and I’ve known her for the longest time – watched her grow into a lovely woman. Her favorite thing to do is to draw. She’s got that arty vibes and the attitude. I remember that she could nap for about nine hours and still wake up grouchy. Wow! However, for a very long time, sleeping was a form of coping mechanism for her. The more time she spent sleeping, the less time she had to deal with people and reality in general. I’m glad that she has come so far, and have let more people in. She’s one of my best girls, and I’m always rooting for her. Nenye is also a foodie, eat with her to your detriment. She taught herself to play the guitar – her elfin hands can also play magic on drums – and she now has a special way of loving people that’s open and enduring.❤️
Q. Can you introduce yourself and what you do?
A. My name is Uzomah Faith Chinenye. The 5th child of the Uzomaki clan. I just graduated – so I want to believe (I’ve got no idea what’s next). I studied Fine Arts and Design at the University of Portharcourt, Rivers state.
Chinenyenwa Faith Uzomah
Q. Why did you study your course and would you rather study somethingelse?
A. I have always wanted to draw since I was little because it made me happy ☺. What I mean is, when I’m happy, I draw, and when I’m not happy (sad) I also, draw. Actually my happiness features a great deal in why I chose to draw 😁. I would have loved to study nothing else but Fine Art.
Q. What have you accomplished so far that has made you proud?
A. I’m not so adventurous, to be honest. I don’t like taking risks. I’m a very careful somebody. What can I say is my accomplishment? Well, I got through school. I’m living a better life spiritually, and I’m so overwhelmed by it. I got to be more social and well, I didn’t get fat 😁. I’m proud of my family. They never made the distance noticeable. They are awesome!
Q. Can you share the time when you were certain it was what you wanted to do?
A. Uhm, what can I say about this? It was when I wrote JAMB, which was, fortunately, the period screening was introduced to schools. I felt that it was a sign because I was very nervous and unsure of how I’d perform if post utme had eventually happened. I thought I may not have gotten admission in that case – I was so scared! 😂 😂. I remember that when I saw my JAMB result I started crying. My fear of post utme was real. Then the first and second lists for admissions came out I just taya because I didn’t see my name. My older brother wanted me to come live with him so that I could prepare to sit for another JAMB but I turned down his offer. I was also working at that time and I was convinced that I would still gain admission regardless. I was also advised to take up another course of study at another University which I considered it, and it made me cry a lot. Eventually, the third list came out, and my name was on the list (at last😅). The best thing was that I got what I applied for, Fine Arts and Design. I remember laughing coz’ in my heart of hearts, I no get the strength to write JAMB again, abeg). Another thing that made me certain was the peace I got while praying over my admission when I despaired. The peace was the confirmation before every other thing happened – I gladly cut my hair as I would be starting a new life, in a new place 😂😂.
Q. What do you feel is the difference between living and existing?
A. Well first would be the spelling! Second, to live for me is to complete a cause/course. To live! There is always something to do or something to finish. Meanwhile, to exist is to be a tool 😑. If the carpenter uses a hammer to drive in a nail, who did the actual work? Shey, you get? The person who exists makes no difference or even an effort – just does nothing. But a person who is living is doing something, has a certain goal, and makes a plan on how to get to it.
Chinenyenwa Faith Uzomah
Q. What is your reaction when people criticize/judge you?
A. Ah! First I die! I have tried all kinds of positive thinking to counter what I hear people say about me, but e no work. It used to be that I would think and think – still do sometimes – and this would make me sad and try to meet up people’s expectations. The more I did, the more empty I felt. There were times I formed introvert sef, that was worse gan. Sometimes I would lash out and leave my tormentors (or were they assassins) scarred. No matter what I did though, it didn’t just feel right. These days, I believe I’m being helped by the Good Lord to not take to heart what people say. I’m breaking out from the former way I dealt with criticism and judgment. I always pray for my own heart, and also for wisdom to direct me. IT HAS BEEN THE BEST AND ONLY SOLUTION FOR ME.😁 Therefore, I’ll stick to the Good Lord.
Q. What do you appreciate about yourself and what would you like to change?
A. I appreciate the fact that God is intentional about my life and I’m responding to him. I appreciate the fact that I can now sincerely talk about the changes that have happened in my life. Nowadays, I accept that I’m wrong😂 my family knows how I like to defend myself whether right or wrong – that’s vewi badt – but I’m getting better at being wise concerning these things sha😂. What I will love to change about myself is the fear of uncertainties.
Q. What two things do you think of the most each day and why?
A. To be very very honest, what I think of is how I can please God and how well. Why? (call me a freak, I kuku have explained what my reaction would be if I am being bad-mouthed). It’s been God and I through school (so shall it be forevermore. Haters die! 😈) and I have been receiving help from him. What I must do and what not to do. Where I should go and where not to go. Who I should keep and who I shouldn’t. How I should not worry so much about family, because God’s got them, and so on. Many people have a lot to say about this, but it is what works for me and I’ll stick to it. Abi now?
Q. What superpowers would you like to have and why?
A. Lol, see me see case! Wetin Musa no go see for gate? 😂 😂 Oh well, I can’t pick reading people’s minds because I suspect I’ll die of migraine. I choose, uhm 🤔having the ability to answer all questions (is that even considered a superpower?) Why? Well, you said I should tell you what powers I’d like to have but I’ve never given it any thought before. All I have, I give to you 😂. I felt like I just had to say something.
I have always wanted to draw since I was little because it made me happy ☺. What I mean is, when I’m happy, I draw, and when I’m not happy (sad) I also, draw. Actuality my happiness features a great deal in why I chose to draw 😁. I would have loved to study nothing else but Fine Art.
Chinenye Uzomah on Thursday Talk Series
Q. If you could, what’s the one thing you’d change about the world?
A. Uhm, one change can affect many other things. It’s something to think properly over, and I think my time with you is up 😂 😂. If I must answer sha, the one thing I’ll change is myself. 😁 A better me, a better world.
Thank you Chinenye (Tiney) for the interview😂 Congratulations on your graduation 🎓 and next time we’ll share your work. Thank you all for being here. Have a lovely weekend. Bye!
Holla! Have you listened to Ed Sheeran – Shivers? You should do – like right now – I don’t mean now, but after you’ve read today’s Thursday Talk Series you can skedaddle outta here and go listen to Eddie’s latest song if pop is your kind of jam. All week I had it on repeat. The first time I listened to the song I started dancing even though I’m a tragic dancer. I hope I’m never asked to dance to save my life because it would be my obituary. Yes, that bad. But Ed’s Shivers is that good.
Standing on non-existing protocols, I’d like to introduce Idowu Adeyemi, The Oracle (it’s a fact that I always hear a thunderous cheer anytime he’s introduced). If Orishás (traditional Yoruba spirits) walked the earth, it is safe to say that Idowu is an ancient spirit trapped in a human body, but still offering service to humankind. His personality shines through in all of his affairs, and the work that he puts into the things he’s passionate about places him above his peers (notice I didn’t say he puts passion into his work). He’s also one of the best people that I have been privileged to know. He’s a dreamer by nature, a lawyer by profession, and an Orator by might. I believe the world is waiting to know a man like Idowu, and soon they’ll get to meet him. When he’s not busy with legal matters, he reads (African literature is his favorite), cooks, listens to music, take short walks, and engages in lively discussions (from how to develop the reading culture of Young Africans to the which housemate was evicted on BBN).
Trivia about Idowu
He loved to watch Bollywood😂😂😭❤️
Q. Can you introduce yourself and what you do?
A. My name is Idowu Olamilekan Adeyemi but my friends and fans like to call me “The Oracle.” Not that I truly believe that I’m one but it has a nice ring to it, so I stick to it. I am a Lawyer with my practice areas including Intellectual Property Law, Corporate and Commercial Practice, Legal drafting, Research and Writing. So, if you are ever in need of my services, don’t hesitate to reach out. I am also trying to get a Communication Consulting Company off the ground and I am optimistic it will turn out great pretty soon.
Idowu Olamilekan Adeyemi
Q. Why do you do your job, and would you rather do something else?
A. I have to say that I am not one of those privileged people who have the incredible gift of knowing what exactly they want to do with their lives from an early stage. I was a commercial student throughout my secondary school but then I stumbled on law when I was going to write my o’ levels exam and it felt like the right thing to do because it aligned with my natural abilities but then I got to the University and it felt like a total disaster. It took me another year after law school to fall in love with this profession. So, I practice law because I finally believe that this where I am meant to be and I am good at it and it does align with a major part of my personality not to mention the fact that money doesn’t hurt too. As far as doing something else goes, I won’t. I will rather complement my law practice with other creative endeavors that I am certain I have abilities for.
Q. When have you felt like giving up?
A. Good gracious! That has been too many times already. In fact, it use to be everyday. Being a person with disability and living in an unstructured society like Nigeria is a double jeopardy to say the least. And a specific instance of such frustration will be when a prospective employer hinted at my disability as the reason for not getting the job. This had happened more than once but this particular day, I went back home depressed and I was sure I was never going to try again. But after hunger waya my head for a couple of days, I needed no extra motivation. Lol. I figured if the society is not going to give me a space, I can either take it or create one for myself and that is what I have been doing since that time.
Q. What two things do you think of the most each day and why?
A. I think about self and professional development. I want to be the best at whatever I do. My career and future mean a lot to me and I am always thinking about how many positive steps I have taken each day to get closer to it. I think about family too. A lot, but that is a story for another day. Lol.
Q. What have you accomplished so far that has made you proud?
A. Honestly, I have a lot of things to be grateful for. But what I am proud of the most is the fact that I am able to attain independence. My worst fear growing up use to be that I will forever be dependent as a person with disability. It hunted me so bad that I use to cry in my private space but today, e no too hard to drink small garri and groundnut daily. Lol.
Photo credit: Rigozo
Q. If money was not relevant, what would you do all day?
A. I will sit with peers and engage in interesting and intelligent conversations all day. I will sit with old people and listen to stories about the past and learn more about our various cultures and languages. I will spend more time trying to understand the dynamics and the diversity of humanity. I sure as hell will travel a lot and explore the world beyond my immediate reality and environment.
Q. What kind of people do you allow in your circle?
A. All kinds of people. Everyone is welcome, as long as you are kind, empathetic and you can show and appreciate love. Tribe, race, religion, class and other basis of discrimination do not apply in my relationships.
Q. Do you consider that people are basically good or bad?
A. I think we are both and I think we are more than that. Humanity is complex, it will be cheap oversimplification to say we are either just good or bad. The part of us that we exhibit however is dependent on various factors; like the part of us we have nurtured the most, socialization process, level of knowledge and exposure, how complex the dilemma we are presented with is at the point of making each decision and a lot more. We can only try to do the right thing but we have to admit that we will not always get it right and that’s okay.
It took me another year after law school to fall in love with this profession. So, I practice law because I finally believe that this where I am meant to be and I am good at it and it does align with a major part of my personality not to mention the fact that money doesn’t hurt too. As far as doing something else goes, I won’t. I will rather compliment my law practice with other creative endeavors that I am certain I have abilities for.
Idowu Adeyemi, ‘The Oracle’ on Thursday Talk Series.
Q. What is your biggest complaint about this country?
A. It’s the lack of a system for me. You cannot single out a sector in Nigeria where things are working the way they should. Everyone just dey freestyle and living each day as it comes. It’s pathetic!
Q. What is the one thing you think that should be taught in school about choosing a career that isn’t?
A. Actually, for me, it’s two things. First, it’s okay to figure out your career path much later after school. It doesn’t mean you are a loser or irresponsible or dumb. It only means you are yet to find yourself and that can take a lot of time for some people and it’s absolutely alright. Just don’t give up on yourself. Whenever you wake up is your morning. All you need do, no matter how long it takes is ensure that you wake up. Second, do not underestimate the power of social capital. Great people in your circle are worth infinitely more than money. So, build relationships and don’t burn bridges. When you finally wake up, those people will be there to say good morning to you and help you get off to a beautiful day ahead.
Thank you so much, Idowu for the interview and I wish you all the best. Remember that your dreams are as great as you envision them to be and it’s only a matter of time. And to everyone still reading thank you so much. Also, you can like, comment and share. Have a lovely Thursday.
Below is a little something I wrote for Idowu a while back, hope you enjoy it.
The Oracle,
When they started calling you ‘The Oracle’ back in school, I teased you at every given opportunity. Well, that was my job description as your friend and sometimes tormentor. I tried my best to be at all of your competitions anyway.
In a packed lecture hall, when it was your turn to speak, I could sink my teeth into the tension in the air. Maybe I didn’t hear all that you said, and that was the least reason why I was there anyway. The main reason was to watch people as they listened to you.
To see a mass of bodies lean a little further, hold their breaths, and scream as one at the words you said, was euphoric. That you held sway over the emotions and the actions of people was in itself a form of power. And that was when I realized that you may not be a deity, but you were at those moments the most powerful person in the room.
Dedicated to Idowu Adeyemi.
Fam! Lately, my thoughts are so random, all over the place, and I accuse my mind of deliberately playing ping-pong just to mess with me. I decided to do a bit of self-reflection the other day, you know, ask myself tough questions like, ‘Is it that time of the month? Bank account gathering dust? Did I put on weight or did my jeans shrink? Valid questions. So, I got my answer but I didn’t like it one bit. Lo and behold, I’m suffering from an acute case of nostalgia. Sucks! Now that I have been diagnosed, I just want to find the cure and get well. But now my other self is looking at me and tutting because she says I can only feel better without my memories. I completely agree with her. I think selective amnesia is the way forward, except I can’t just keep the good memories and get rid of the bad. For the time being I’m stuck hauling my nostalgia around like some twisted trophy.
Moving on. Today I have Lara and I’m excited that she’s here as always. I’ve come to understand that people are a lot like mold, they can be found everywhere. However, quite a few of them stick around you and become something more. That’s why Lara of the Wildfire, as she prefers to be called, reminds me of music in all the years that I’ve known her. Sometimes Lara is like a concerto featuring an orchestra of strings, keys, and horns. Other times she’s a solo flute with dark haunting notes. Or a she’s a soft hum you’d have to strain very hard to listen to or else she’d slip away when you least expect, and all that will be left is a terrible ache. She’s like the kind of music that leaves you feeling more than you bargained for. Lara also loves stargazing, writes love letters to the moon, keeps a cat or two as her familiar, and crushes on book characters.😌
Q. Can you introduce yourself and what you do?
A. Heyyyy! My name is Agbaje Olohuntosin Omolara. Most people call me Lara, a few people call me Shukrah, but I really prefer Lara of the Wildfire. It’s quite a mouthful, but it’s such a sexy name! I’m a content manager, so this means I create content for different brands. Blog content, social media content, email content and the works. I’m also training to become a product designer, because tech is where the money’s at, yo!
Agbaje Olohuntosin Omolara
Q. Why do you do your job, and would you rather do something else?
A. I started in the world of content creation because of my natural flair for writing. I studied Chemistry at The University of Ibadan, yeah? But after graduation, I started getting writing gigs and it just went on from there. Currently, I’m hella tired of the content world. I’m a creative writer above all else, but this job is sucking the joy out of writing for me, and I’ll very much like to stop before that happens. And that’s the real reason why I am training to be a product designer.
Q. What is the best thing about what you do?
A. Seeing as I’m tired of the job, this might be difficult to answer. But if I absolutely have to, I’ll say the best thing about it is the fact that I get to do it from home. I honestly can’t imagine a world where I have to leave my house every day for work. Am die, mehn.
Q. What do you appreciate about yourself and what would you like to change?
A. I absolutely love how creative I am, especially with words. I can make a story out of any situation and that keeps me entertained, you know? Reality can be too much a lot of times, these stories I tell myself kind of make things easier. What I would love to change…well. I tend to be very forgetful, geez! I would definitely want to change this.
Q. Do you consider that people are basically bad or basically good?
A. Good or bad? Wow. That’s an overly simplistic way to categorize people that are anything but. I don’t believe one person is just good, or that another is just bad. I strongly believe that good and bad is something that we all carry within us, and what we exhibit is the side we nurture. Besides, we never really know what we’ll do in a situation until we’re actually living in it. Will I do the ‘good’ thing when xxx happens? Honestly, there is no telling. I could be a monster.
Lara with wingsHer familiar
Q. What kind of people do you allow into your circle?
A. Kind people. I love love kind, deliberate people. Also, I have a natural affinity for writers, readers and dreamers. I kind of just meet them and we decide to do life together.
Q. What have you accomplished so far that has made you proud?
A. I recently published my debut book, Letters, Stamps and Seals, and that book is literally a part of my soul set on paper for the whole world to see. I was freaking terrified before it was published, but I’m also damn proud of myself for what I have done with that book.
Lara at her book launch, Letter, Stamps and Seals
Q. What two things do you think of the most each day and why?
A. (Insert laughing emoji) Food and money na. I never know what to eat, and I like food die! So that’s kind of a recurrent thought. I’m always thinking of money as well, because tbh, money can solve A LOT of your problems! To quote Ari, “Whoever said money can’t solve your problems must not have had enough money to solve em.”
Q. If money was not relevant, what would you do all day?
A. I’ll read! Fantasy, YA, Sci-Fi, Thriller,Poetry, any damn thing that catches my eyes, I’ll read it! I can already picture me lounging all day, reading, drinking tea and eating cake. I’ll also travel a lot and take a lot of landscape pictures. To paraphrase something one of my favorite IG poets said, I have a spinning compass where my heart should be. If money isn’t an issue, I’ll let that compass take me everywhere.
I recently published my debut book, Letters, Stamps and Seals, and that book is literally a part of my soul set on paper for the whole world to see. I was freaking terrified before it was published, but I’m also damn proud of myself for what I have done with that book.
Agbaje Olohuntosin Omolara on Thursday Talk Series
Q. If like a movie your life up to this point is played for you to watch, describe how you’d feel about it?
A. I’d probably say something along the lines of ‘Why the fu*k am I being made to watch this?” while I cringe and try not to die from second-hand embarrassment.
Thank you Lara for the interview, it was my pleasure and all the best with product designing. And thank you guys for showing up every Thursday.❤️
I’m reading Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged, and the book has taken over my life. Literally. It’s Thursday already, you see what I’m saying. The last thing I remember was diving into the book, and that was Monday. A little something from that corner.
I mentioned taking photography seriously this year in my memoir, right? If you don’t know all about that check it out here. Well, it hasn’t been easy at all but I think I’ve come a long way and I have learned a lot. (It’s belated I know but we are still in August so Happy world photography day! and if you’d like to see how I celebrated it, click here)
I love to tell stories and well this is a story, sort of, where I tell you how far I have come as a beginner photographer and how I’ve improved my skills. I hope you find it helpful if you are interested in jumping into photography or just taking it as a hobby.
Here’s an update on what I’ve been up to
I finished a 6month photography internship (I started late last year and finished sometime around March).
I was retained and have since worked as an assistant photographer.
Joined an online photography class.
If you are a beginner photographer and want to improve your skills, you shouldn’t be thinking of what gear to buy or how to get 1000 likes on Instagram. I’ll share with you the basic thing you need to know to start as a beginner photographer.
Start from where you are
As a beginner photographer, start from where you are. When I first started photography I used my phone, Samsung Galaxy GT18552 and I remember this because I loved that smartphone. My selfie camera was a mess but the main/back camera worked quite fine. After the first introductory class which I had during my final year in school, I was ready to take pictures everywhere I went. I was like Dora the Explorer without the backpack and monkey. I’ve discovered something new and exciting, and I wanted everyone around me to be aware of it. You can use your phone and if you can afford a DSLR camera, then go for it. The most important thing is to start and then you can build up from there.
Use YouTube
Youtube is a great resource to learn a lot about photography for free. Yes! You can’t always know everything. Me? I don’t know everything. What I know about Snapseed and editing when I first started with my phone, I learned from those wonderful people on YouTube. Today I still use it to learn about lighting, focus, camera body and settings, exposure triangle, composition, photoshop, lightroom, and so on. It’s amazing for a beginner. There’s knowledge for anyone interested in learning and improving their skills. Fantastic❤️
Be patient
Be patient with yourself. I am lucky to have people around who encourage me, and not because I am a pro or genius or anything close. With time I’ve come to realize that growth is a process. The child is the father of a man, is an expression by William Wordsworth which indicates that childhood traits and experiences impact the life of a man. So also as a beginner photographer, with years comes experience and improvement. I know so much more now than I ever did when I first started photography.
Believe in yourself
From phone photography to using a camera, it’s wonderful to see that I can chart a map from my early beginnings as a photographer to now. The journey has not always been easy like I said, sometimes excruciating. What stood out for me is how much believing in myself goes a long way. Not that getting support from people around me doesn’t count (it does), but I stand a better chance of accomplishing my best when I believe in myself. As a beginner photographer that’s like your super power.
Try new things
Don’t be scared to do shake things up. Move out of your comfort zone; pack your bags. You’ll find opportunities to explore your creativity as a photographer. Sure you may not take those images that will make people want to lick their screen as a beginner but you’ll learn a thing or two. Use the internet to find prompts or just walk around the house and look for something to shoot.
Keep Practicing
That’s the golden rule in my opinion. All the books, online classes, YouTube videos etcetera, won’t make a lot of sense if you don’t practice as a beginner photographer. I mean even the professionals do a lot of practice. Whether you are using a camera or a phone, don’t skip on practicing. It can be anywhere; on the bus, at a park, inside the house, at the mall, and so on.
Have fun
What’s the point if you are feeling sad and awful all the time. You should be having fun even though as a beginner it won’t be easy. I know, I know, you are saying, ‘what if I miss the moment.’ Well, you missed it. Now focus on having fun, and keep an eye out for the next moment. Easy peasy😌😁. I’m still hoping from one place to the other looking for a niche, but I’m having a ton of fun and you should too.
Waking Dreams Unmasked 