Glamsquad Magazine April 2024

APRIL 2024 

How to 

Define 

Your 

Personal 

Beauty & 

Fashion 

Style 

Model to 

celebrate: 

Candice 

Swanepoe: 

Exclusive 

10 Black- 

Run Beauty 

Businesses to 

Shop Year- 

Round 

All you 

Missed at 

the Oscars 

2024 

Venice: 

The 

Romance 

Capital of 

the World 

Kamala 

Harris: 

The Most Powerful 

Woman in the World 

Can You Use 

Rosemary Oil 

for Beauty and 

Hair Growth? 

What to Know 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com 1

Inside 

Glamsquad 

Magazine 

April 2024 

FOOD 

Gong Bao 

Chicken 

Recipe 

ESCAPE 

Mauritius: The 

Pearl of Africa’s 

Tourism 

62 

58 

18 

Kamala 

Harris: 

The Most Powerful Woman in 

the World 

glamsquadtv glamsquad3 glamsquadTV glamsquadmag 

2 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com

Editor-In-chief / 

Publisher 

Remi Diagbare 

Editor 

Amenna Dayo 

Deputy editor 

Chioma Esui 

Stand-By/Ad-Hoc 

Praise David 

Grace Effiong 

Oyindamola 

Staff Writers 

Sasha Bokamoso 

Contributors 

Dr. Nkechi Omoson 

Chef Amaka Obiefuna 

Kabirat Opoola 

graphics / 

Web Manager 

Layi Success 

MARKETING Director 

Tega Diagbare 

Imioms Dan Anyiam 

Dear friends, 

As we experience the thrills 

of April, a month teeming 

with the promise of renewal 

and growth, I am thrilled to 

welcome you to the latest edition of 

Glamsquad magazine. 

In this issue, we embark on a 

journey of empowerment and 

power, celebrating the essence 

of womanhood in all its forms. 

To achieve this, we went for the 

woman at the very top of the power 

food chain – none other than Vice 

President Kamala Harris. 

In this edition, you will see Kamala 

Harris through the lens – understand 

the journey of how a migrant country 

girl worked her way to becoming the 

most powerful woman in the world. 

From insightful features on 

personal growth to uplifting stories 

of resilience and triumph, our April 

edition is dedicated to inspiring you 

to embrace your unique journey 

and embrace the beauty of your 

individuality. Of course, as you know 

we do not serve fashion on small 

platters at Glamsquad! Our fashion 

pages are glowing with the best 

fashion stories and photos that will 

keep you glued. 

As the world blooms with the 

arrival of spring, so too do our 

pages blossom with vibrant content 

designed to ignite your passions, spark 

your creativity, and nourish your soul. 

A . 

42 

Best and Worst Dressed 

Celebrities at the BAFTAs 2024 

Whether you’re seeking fashion 

inspiration, wellness tips, or 

thought-provoking articles 

on current affairs, we have 

curated a collection of articles 

that cater to every aspect of 

your multifaceted life. 

So, dear readers, as you 

delve into the pages of 

our April edition, I invite you 

to savour each moment, 

embrace each opportunity, 

and revel in the magic of 

possibility. Together, let us 

embrace the spirit of renewal 

and embark on a journey 

of growth, discovery, and 

empowerment. 

With warmest 

rega rds, 

Ameena Dayo 

Editor, G.S 

Head Office: 

Suite B2, 388. HFP Shopping Complex, Abraham 

Adesanya Junction, Lekki-Epe Way, Lagos, Nigeria 

For advert enquiries, 

please contact the marketing Director 

Tel: +09150764272, +44 7424 594773 

or email, 

info@glamsquadmagazine.com, 

glamsquad.magazine.tv@gmail.com 

We pay for exclusive celebrity stories. 

FASHION 

Check Out 

the 2024 

Chic List 

Must Haves 

4 

Disclaimer: 

Please note that all photos used in this special 

digital edition of Glamsquad Magazine were 

sourced freely online. 

Glamsquad maintains no rights over the images/ 

photos, while we have tried to give appropriate 

credit where due, we are aware some artistes 

were not credited. 

We remain committed to supporting intellectual 

property and creativity. 

© 2024 Tegali Communications 


FASHION 

Chic List 

Check Ou 

Chic List Mu 

Abigeal Bankole 

As the new year unfolds, it 

brings with it opportunities 

for change, whether in our 

personal lives, professional 

endeavors, or fashion choices. It’s 

a perfect moment to reassess your 

everyday wardrobe and inject it with 

a fresh perspective for the months 

ahead. 

1 

The Editor- 

Approved 

Dress With 

an Oversized 

Blazer: 

Opt for Joseph’s color-blocked 

knit dress, a chic and effortless 

winter workwear staple. Layer 

with H&M’s oversized blazer and 

complete the look with knee-high 

boots from The Row and a roomy 

work tote from DeMellier. 

2 

The Trouser- 

Esque Black 

Legging with 

a Statement 

Sweater: 

Pair sleek black leggings, like those 

from Toteme, with a bold Bottega 

Veneta sweater. Complete the 

look with black Mary Janes from 

Everlane and a cozy faux fur coat 

from Toteme for the perfect winterin-the-city 

ensemble. 

4 


FASHION 

t the 2024 

st Haves 

While having a reliable lineup 

of wardrobe essentials is essential, 

why not elevate your style this year 

by reinventing these classics in the 

most stylish and contemporary ways 

possible? 

From the timeless white T-shirt to 

staple denim pieces, we’ve curated 

10 essential outfit formulas to guide 

your midwinter wardrobe refresh. The 

best part? You likely already own these 

classic pieces. Here’s your guide to 

revamping your midwinter style: 

The Chic City Sneaker 

With a Cool-Girl 

Corduroy: 

Embrace urban style 

with Adidas Samba 

sneakers, paired with 

cool corduroys from 

Dries Van Noten and 

Banana Republic’s 

plaid coat. Layer with 

Theory’s turtleneck for 

a cozy yet chic look. 

3 

4 

The All-Purpose 

Knitwear With 

Winter White 

Jeans: 

Elevate your style with a versatile gray 

cashmere crewneck from The Row, 

paired elegantly with winter white jeans 

from Frame. Finish the look with Aeyde’s 

metallic ballet flats and a warming coat 

from Favorite Daughter. 


FASHION 

The Sleek Smoking 

Loafer With a Denim 

Midi Skirt: 

Make a statement with Loeffler Randall’s 

sleek smoking loafers, styled with an 

emerald green V-neck sweater from Toteme 

and an asymmetrical denim midi skirt 

from Tory Burch. Add edge with Proenza 

Schouler’s shearling-lined leather jacket. 

leather shoulder bag 

The Editor- 

Approved 

Dress With 

an Oversized 

Blazer: 

Opt for Joseph’s color-blocked 

knit dress, a chic and effortless 

winter workwear staple. Layer 

with H&M’s oversized blazer and 

complete the look with knee-high 

boots from The Row and a roomy 

work tote from DeMellier. 

5 

The Go-To Denim with 

a Best in Belts: 

Embrace the versatility of blue jeans with 

Agolde’s slouchy style, paired effortlessly with 

Everlane’s chunky crewneck sweater. Add a 

touch of sophistication with Gucci’s lug-sole 

loafers and Khaite’s studded Benny belt for 

added flair. 

7 

6 


FASHION 

6 

The Plain 

But Perfect 

White Tee 

With a 

Minimalist 

Maxi Skirt: 

Style a classic white tee, like the one from 

Leset, with a minimalist maxi skirt for effortless 

chic. Add a touch of sparkle with crystalembellished 

ballet flats and layer with & 

Other Stories’s gray cardi for a polished finish. 

8 

9 

The Crisp White 

Button-up With a 

Polished Work Pant: 

Embrace menswear-inspired style with Citizens 

of Humanity’s poplin shirt layered over Uniqlo’s 

gray ribbed turtleneck. Pair with wool trousers from 

Toteme and finish with little white loafers from Le 

Monde Beryl for a polished look. 


FASHION 

How to Define 

Your Personal 

Beauty & 

Fashion 

Style 

By Chioma Esu 

Unlocking your personal style isn’t about blindly following trends; 

it’s about embracing what resonates with you. But if you’re 

unsure of where to start, fear not! Crafting your unique style is 

an exciting journey that involves seeking inspiration, curating a 

mood board, and daring to experiment with fashion. 

Understanding Personal Style: 

Personal style is your distinctive 

expression, whether it’s through 

your attire, writing, or architectural 

preferences. In the realm of 

fashion, it encompasses how you 

convey yourself through clothing, 

accessories, hairstyle, and outfit 

combinations. 

True style transcends fleeting 

trends; it’s about cultivating a 

sense of self-expression rather than 

merely mirroring what’s popular at 

the moment. Personal style evolves 

from a genuine understanding of 

your preferences and aesthetic 

inclinations. 

5 Steps to Discovering Your 

Personal Style: 

Explore Your Wardrobe: Start 

by delving into your closet and 

identifying pieces that resonate with 

you. What items bring you joy? Take 

note of common themes or features 

among your favorite pieces. 

Seek Inspiration: Look to 

various sources for fashion 

inspiration. Observe friends, family, 

and celebrities whose style you 

admire. Dive into social media, 

perusing outfits from casual wear to 

professional attire. Explore fashion 

blogs, magazines, and follow stylists 

8 


FASHION 

or influencers who align with your 

tastes. 

Craft a Mood Board: Compile 

your fashion inspirations into a mood 

board. Whether it’s digital or physical, 

gather images that encapsulate 

your desired aesthetic. Even if the 

styles seem diverse, you’ll likely 

notice overarching themes or vibes 

that resonate with you. 

Build a Capsule Wardrobe: 

Streamline your wardrobe with a 

capsule collection of timeless basics. 

These versatile pieces in neutral hues 

form the foundation of effortless 

looks. Think classic items like a little 

black dress, denim jacket, simple 

tees, or a leather tote. Keep what 

speaks to you and replace the rest 

with essentials that truly reflect your 

style. 

Experiment Fearlessly: 

Embrace experimentation by 

incorporating unique pieces into 

your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to 

mix bold accessories, play with 

vibrant colors, or experiment with 

prints and textures. Personal style 

flourishes when you dare to explore 

and discover what truly makes you 

feel confident and authentic. 


FASHION 

See Every Red 

Carpet Look 

From the 

2024 BAFTAs 

Praise David 

Get ready for a star-studded 

evening at the 2024 BAFTAs, 

where Hollywood’s finest will 

grace the British capital amidst 

the buzz of London Fashion 

Week. A lineup of A-listers 

including Margot Robbie, Emma 

Stone, and Bradley Cooper are 

in contention for prestigious 

awards, alongside celebrated 

British talents like Carey Mulligan, 

Emily Blunt, and Rosamund Pike. 

As the stars, including royalty 

(the Prince of Wales, president 

of BAFTA), step onto the red 

carpet, all eyes will be on the 

fashion spectacle. With the 

BAFTAs leading the charge in 

introducing a sustainable dress 

code back in 2020, anticipation 

is high for possible archival looks 

and daring fashion choices. 

Will anyone emulate Zendaya’s 

iconic move of wearing a dress 

before its runway debut? 

Stay tuned as we unveil all 

the show-stopping looks from 

the 2024 BAFTAs red carpet. 

10 


FASHION 


12 



10 

Black-Run 

Beauty 

Businesses to 

Shop Year-Round 

By Amenna Daayo 

Fenty Beauty 

founded by Rihanna, stands out for its 

inclusivity, offering makeup products 

in a diverse range of shades. 

Let’s embrace the truth: 

Black-owned beauty brands 

deserve recognition and 

support every single day of 

the year. 

The beauty industry owes much 

of its vibrancy and innovation to 

the Black community. Many of the 

industry’s most iconic treatments 

and trends, from hair extensions to 

nail art, have deep roots in Black 

culture. Yet, despite their immense 

contributions, Black entrepreneurs 

often face barriers accessing 

capital to fund their businesses. 

The 2022 Black Pound Report 

revealed that in sectors like health 

and beauty, Black and multi-ethnic 

consumers spend an average of 

25% more than any other group. 

If we truly appreciate the beauty 

industry, it’s only right to show 

unwavering support for the Blackowned 

businesses that are integral 

to its vitality. 

To spotlight Black-owned 

beauty brands and ensure 

they receive the recognition 

they deserve, we’ve curated 

a list of companies that merit 

our championing. Supporting 

14 


10FT: 

Lola Lawal’s creation 

offers stylish and 

functional acrylic 

makeup storage 

solutions, keeping 

your beauty essentials 

organized and 

accessible. 

Briogeo: 

these brands isn’t just a onetime 

gesture—it’s an ongoing 

commitment. These brands 

encompass a wide range of 

beauty products, from haircare to 

skincare and makeup. 

Moreover, these brands are 

predominantly female-owned, with 

many prioritizing sustainability as a 

core value. By making a purchase 

(or simply following and sharing 

their content, if financial constraints 

apply), you’re not only supporting 

the Black community but also 

empowering female entrepreneurs 

and businesses dedicated to 

sustainable practices. 

With a focus on 

individuality, positivity, 

and transparency, 

Briogeo offers crueltyfree 

haircare products 

made from 90-100% 

naturally derived 

ingredients. 

Here are 10 Black-owned 

beauty brands that warrant our 

steadfast support: 

Afrocenchix: 

Rachael Corson and Jocelyn Mate 

created Afrocenchix to provide 

natural hair products for Afro hair, 

addressing concerns like sensitivity 

and alopecia with non-toxic 

formulations. 


ORI Lifestyle: 

A holistic lifestyle brand by Titi Bello, 

offering high-quality products for Afro 

hair and skin care. 

The Afro 

Hair & Skin 

Company: 

Known for natural and eco-friendly 

products made from locally-sourced 

British ingredients, promoting selfcare 

and self-love. 

Boucleme: 

Founded by Michele Scott-Lynch, Boucleme offers 

ethical curly hair products manufactured in the UK, 

catering to the needs of women with curly hair. 

16 


Danessa 

Myricks 

Beauty: 

Founded by Danessa 

Myricks, this brand 

features multifunctional 

beauty 

products designed 

for diverse individuals, 

blending beauty with 

artistry. 

Plant 

Apothecary 

Beauty: 

This brand offers 

skin and body care 

products formulated 

with natural 

ingredients and 

packaged in ecofriendly 

materials. 

Essentials by Temi: 

Temi Shobowale’s skincare brand combines 

beauty and philanthropy, offering vegan 

products that deliver a radiant glow. 


REPORTAGE 

Kamala 

Harris: 

The Most Powerful Woman 

in the World 


Kamala D. Harris serves as the Vice 

President of the United States, known 

for her unwavering advocacy for the 

people. From her groundbreaking tenure 

as District Attorney of San Francisco and Attorney 

General of California to her proud service as a 

United States Senator and Vice President, she has 

consistently championed the rights and wellbeing 

of individuals. 

On January 20, 2021, Kamala Harris made 

history as she was sworn in as Vice President—the 

first woman, first Black American, and first South 

Asian American to hold this esteemed position. In 

her role, she has tirelessly worked to unite people 

and advance opportunities while prioritizing family 

welfare and safeguarding fundamental freedoms 

nationwide. 

Vice President Harris has been at the forefront 

of critical issues, advocating for women’s 

autonomy over their bodies, gun violence 

prevention, voting rights, and environmental 

protection. Additionally, she has represented 

the nation on the global stage, undertaking 

numerous foreign trips, engaging with over 150 

world leaders, and reinforcing vital international 

alliances. 

In collaboration with President Joe Biden, Vice 

President Harris has spearheaded transformative 

initiatives benefitting millions of Americans. Their 

joint efforts have resulted in record job creation, 

historic reductions in prescription drug costs, and 

significant advancements in maternal health 

care. Notably, they enacted groundbreaking 

legislation addressing gun safety and investing in 

infrastructure, including the removal of lead pipes 

and expansion of high-speed internet access. 

As President of the Senate, Vice President Harris 

has made history by casting the most tie-breaking 

votes in the role’s history. Her pivotal votes have 

secured passage of landmark legislation such 

as the Inflation Reduction Act and significant 

investments in climate change mitigation. 

18 


REPORTAGE 


REPORTAGE 

Beyond her legislative achievements, 

Vice President Harris has played a pivotal 

role in promoting diversity and representation 

in government, notably overseeing the 

confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson 

to the Supreme Court—the first Black woman 

to hold this position. 

Born in Oakland, California, to immigrant 

parents deeply engaged in the civil rights 

movement, Kamala Harris was instilled with a 

commitment to justice and equality from an 

early age. Inspired by her mother, Shyamala 

Gopalan, a pioneering breast cancer 

scientist, and her father, both activists, Vice 

President Harris has dedicated her career to 

uplifting marginalized voices and building 

inclusive coalitions. 

A graduate of Howard University and 

the University of California Hastings College 

of Law, Vice President Harris is married to 

Douglas Emhoff, with whom she shares a 

blended family. Committed to paving the 

way for future generations, she embodies her 

mother’s admonition to be a trailblazer and 

ensure that others follow in her footsteps. 

Throughout her remarkable journey, 

Vice President Harris continues to embody 

resilience, compassion, and a steadfast 

dedication to serving the people—an 

enduring legacy shaped by her upbringing, 

experiences, and unwavering commitment 

to justice and equality. 

Who Is Kamala Harris? 

How a San Francisco prosecutor 

became vice president 

Kamala Harris has achieved the historic 

milestones of becoming the first woman 

and the first woman of color to serve as 

the vice president of the United States. Her 

groundbreaking career includes notable roles 

as a former California attorney general and 

U.S. senator. Explore some of the highlights of 

Vice President Kamala Harris’s personal and 

political journey, as well as her positions on 

key issues. 

Early Life and Education 

Kamala Devi Harris was born on Oct. 20, 

1964, in Oakland, California to immigrant 

parents. Her mother, Shyamala, emigrated 

20 


REPORTAGE 

‘Kamala 

Harris is the 

most Powerful 

Woman in 

the World, 

PERIOD!’ 

from India and became a 

renowned breast cancer 

researcher and received her 

doctorate in the same year 

Kamala was born. Her father, 

Donald, came to the U.S. from 

Jamaica and was an economics 

professor at Stanford University. 

Harris’s parents were involved 

in the civil rights movement and 

emphasized the significance 

of bringing people together 

to champion the rights and 

freedoms of all individuals. At 

a young age, she participated 

in civil rights marches, even 

attending as a toddler. 

Her parents divorced when 

she was seven. She moved 

to Montreal at age 12, 

along with her mother 

and her sister, Maya. 

It was there that 

Kamala and her 

sister organized 

a reportedly 

successful protest 

against the owner 

of their apartment 

building who 

wouldn’t let children 

play on the building’s 

lawn. 

As a student at Westmount 

High School in Quebec, Harris 

dreamed of becoming a 

lawyer. She returned to the U.S. 

after graduation and entered 

Howard University in Washington, 

D.C., where she earned a 

B.A. in political science and 

economics. Then she went back 

to her home state of California 

and attended the University of 

California Hastings College of the 

Law where she earned her J.D. in 

1989. 

Notable Accomplishments 

Harris has a number of notable 

accomplishments to her name. 

She began her legal career 

as deputy district attorney in 

Alameda County, California, 

focusing on sex crimes. She 

became managing attorney 

of the Career Criminal Unit 

in San Francisco from there 

and became chief of the San 

Francisco Community and 

Neighborhood Division of the 

DA’s office in 2000, where she 

established the state’s first Bureau 

of Children’s Justice. 

As the district attorney of San 

Francisco in 2004, Kamala Harris 

presided over the first same-sex 

wedding following the overturning 

of Proposition 8. She also created 

an environmental justice unit 

and launched a program called 

“Back on Track,” which is aimed 

at providing educational and 

employment opportunities to firsttime 

drug offenders. 

In 2010, Kamala Harris 

was elected as the attorney 

general of California. In this role, 

she achieved an $18 billion 

settlement for homeowners who 

were facing foreclosure and 

secured a $1.1 billion settlement 

for students and veterans who 

had been deceived by a forprofit 

education company. 

In 2021, Kamala Harris 

achieved a historic milestone by 

taking the oath of office as vice 

president. She marked a series 

of “firsts” as the initial woman, 

woman of color, and South Asian 

American to assume this role. 

As part of her responsibilities, 

Harris has engaged in numerous 

international visits, traveling to 

more than 19 countries and 

holding discussions with over 150 

world leaders to enhance global 

partnerships and alliances. 

In 2022, Biden signed 

the Inflation Reduction 

Act, a significant legislative 

achievement in which Vice 

President Harris played a pivotal 

role. It aims to cut expenses for 

families, address the climate 

crisis, reduce the budget deficit, 


REPORTAGE 

and ensure that major corporations 

pay their share of taxes. One of the 

key aspects of this act, influenced 

by Vice President Harris’s advocacy, 

is the empowerment of Medicare 

to negotiate prices for certain 

high-cost medications. It limits the 

monthly cost of insulin for seniors 

to $35, eliminates out-of-pocket 

expenses for recommended adult 

vaccines under Medicare, and sets 

a yearly cap of $2,000 for seniors’ 

pharmacy-related expenditures. 

San Francisco Attorney 

General 

Harris defeated her former boss, 

Terence Hallinan, in an election 

to become San Francisco district 

attorney in 2003. She was the first 

Black woman to hold the office. 

The conviction rate in San Francisco 

jumped from 52% to 67% during 

her first three years. She launched 

the “Back on Track” initiative that 

cut recidivism through job training 

and other programs for low-level 

offenders. 

Harris went from a police favorite 

to being shunned by police unions 

during her tenure as San Francisco 

DA due to a reputation for only 

prosecuting the most airtight of 

cases and for her handling of a 

case against a cop killer in 2004. 

Harris had an often-stated personal 

opposition to the death penalty and 

had made a campaign promise 

to never seek it. It turned many of 

those on the blue line against her 

when she refused to request the 

death penalty for a gang member 

convicted of killing police officer 

Isaac Espinoza. 

Attorney General of 

California 

Harris became the first woman 

and the first Black and South 

Asian American attorney general 

of California in November 2010, 

narrowly beating Los Angeles 

County District Attorney Steve 

Cooley in the race. She made an 

22 


REPORTAGE 

immediate mark by withdrawing 

from settlement negotiations with 

five of the country’s largest financial 

institutions for improper mortgage 

practices, and eventually settled 

for five times the original proposed 

amount. 

Harris created Open Justice as 

attorney general, an online platform 

that makes criminal justice data 

available to the public at large. 

The database has helped improve 

police accountability by tabulating 

the number of deaths and injuries 

of those in police custody. She 

also presided over the creation 

of “Operation Boo,” a mandatory 

curfew for all homeless sex offenders 

on Halloween. 

U.S. Senator for California 

Harris became the first South 

Asian American to enter the U.S. 

Senate when she defeated Loretta 

Sanchez in 2016. Her pointed 

questioning of high-profile witnesses 

like then U.S. Attorney General 

Jeff Sessions and Supreme Court 

nominee Brett Kavanaugh drew 

her high praise from the left. Harris 

supported a single-payer healthcare 

system in the Senate and 

introduced legislation to provide 

financial relief to those facing rising 

housing costs. 

Harris joined bipartisan bills 

less often than all other Senate 

Democrats, according to GovTrack. 

Of the 696 bills she co-sponsored, 

only 14% were introduced by 

Republicans. On the other hand, 

she received bicameral (House and 

Senate) support on more bills than 

any other member of her Senate 

class and had the most co-sponsors 

on her bills of anyone in her class. 

Harris introduced one bill while 

serving as senator that became law 

in 2019: S. 129 (116th): Saint Francis 

Dam Disaster National Memorial 

Act. It provides for the establishment 

of a national monument to 

commemorate those killed by the 

collapse of the Saint Francis Dam 

on March 12, 1928. Three other bills 


REPORTAGE 

that she’s sponsored have been 

enacted via other legislation: 

S. 3055 (115th): Disaster 

Victims Passport and ID Relief Act 

of 2018 

S. 3033 (115th): COUNT Victims 

Act 

S. 729 (115th): John Muir 

National Historic Site Expansion 

Act 

The Presidential 

Campaign 

Harris announced that she 

was running for president in 

January 2019. One high point of 

her campaign came during the 

first Democratic debate when 

Harris confronted Joe Biden 

over his opposition to crossdistrict 

busing in the 1970s. She 

delivered a stirring anecdote 

about the opportunity that busing 

afforded one child, ending with 

the dramatic line, “And that little 

girl was me.” The clip became an 

immediate viral sensation and so 

did her candidacy. 

But the resulting surge in 

poll numbers didn’t last. Harris 

shut down her campaign in 

December 2019 and endorsed 

Biden in March 2020. He 

announced Harris as his running 

mate in August 2020, saying, 

“Back when Kamala was attorney 

general, she worked closely with 

(my son) Beau. I watched as they 

took on the big banks, lifted up 

working people, and protected 

women and kids from abuse. I 

was proud then, and I’m proud 

now to have her as my partner in 

this campaign.” 

Biden was declared the 46th 

president elect of the U.S. on Nov. 

7, 2020, making Harris the first 

female, the first Black person, and 

the first Asian American to hold 

the position of vice president. She 

was sworn into office on Jan. 20, 

2021. 

Philosophies and 

Publications 

Harris has published three 

books. Her first was “Smart on 

Crime: A Career Prosecutor’s 

Plan to Make Us Safer” in 2009. 

It explores her philosophy and 

ideas for criminal justice reform. 

The book focuses on issues such 

as government corruption and 

justice for sexual abuse victims. 

It portrays Harris as a prosecutor 

with a tough but empathetic 

approach, emphasizing support 

for victims and measures to 

prevent crimes. It’s also viewed 

by some as pro-law enforcement, 

and aligned with an era focused 

on crime prevention rather than 

racial bias and police presence. 

Two other books appeared 

in early 2019. “The Truths We 

Hold: An American Journey” 

is a memoir that reflects on 

her personal relationships and 

upbringing. “Superheroes Are 

Everywhere” is a picture book 

autobiography for children. 

Harris bluntly told 

Guatemalans “do not come” 

during a June 2021 trip to Central 

America, a remark that drew 

criticism although it reflected the 

realities of a Trump administration 

rule allowing border agents 

to rapidly turn away migrants 

without providing them a 

chance to apply for asylum. 

The administration aims to deter 

migration to the southwestern 

border by working to improve 

conditions in Central America. 

Ideology 

Both Biden and Harris are 

generally considered to be 

in the moderate wing of the 

Democratic Party, though 

GovTrack labels Harris as one of 

the most liberal members of the 

Senate. Her record in the Senate 

is to the left of Biden’s. 

Harris began by joining Sen. 

Bernie Sanders in his call for 

Kamala Harris’s public 

service career has been 

filled with firsts: the first 

woman, and the first 

Black woman, the first 

South Asian-American 

elected to hold various 

government offices and 

positions, including state 

attorney general and U.S. 

senator. The culmination 

of these is the job of vice 

president of the U.S. As 

one publication put it, 

“her political gifts made 

it easy to forget that with 

each step in her career she 

was making history.” 

24 


REPORTAGE 

Medicare for All but she later backtracked, 

leaving her position uncertain. Biden does not 

support Medicare for All and has called for fixing 

and expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) 

instead. Harris was a co-sponsor of the Green 

New Deal, which Biden doesn’t support. 

The area on which they seem to agree most 

is immigration. Both favor a path to citizenship 

for undocumented immigrants living in the U.S. 

Both favor protection of Dreamers, including a 

plan to fix Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals 

(DACA), and she supported his reversal of 

President Donald Trump’s Muslim ban. 

Who Is Kamala Harris Married to? 

Kamala Harris has been married to Douglas 

Emhoff since 2014. An entertainment and 

intellectual property lawyer and litigator, he 

left his law firm after the 2020 presidential 

campaign to teach at Georgetown University 

and take up his duties as second gentleman. 

How Much Is Kamala Harris Worth? 

Kamala Harris’s net worth was an estimated 

$6.75 to $15.29 million as of March 2023, 

according to Yahoo! Finance. 

Where Was Kamala Harris Born and 

Raised? 

Kamala Harris was born in Oakland, California 

to parents who had emigrated from India and 

Jamaica. She spent her early years in Berkeley, 

California and her teenage years in Montreal, 

Canada, before returning to the U.S. to attend 

Howard University. 

The Bottom Line 

Kamala Harris’s public service career has 

been filled with firsts: the first woman, and the 

first Black woman, the first South Asian-American 

elected to hold various government offices and 

positions, including state attorney general and 

U.S. senator. The culmination of these is the job 

of vice president of the U.S. As one publication 

put it, “her political gifts made it easy to forget 

that with each step in her career she was 

making history.” 

Her journey reflects a blend of centrist and 

liberal ideologies, and her role continues to 

evolve, as she focuses on critical issues like 

voting rights and immigration. 


FEATURE 

Model To 

Celebrate 

26 


FEATURE 

Candice 

Swanepoe: 

The Highest Paid 

African Model Alive 

By Sasha Bokamoso 

I 

was born in a little South 

African village called Mooi 

River, where I grew up on a 

dairy and beef farm. I spent my 

childhood surrounded by life, 

love, nature and family. As a 

little girl I always knew I wanted 

to do something different, 

something my family and I 

could be proud of one day. 

I had a passion for beauty 

and fashion from a very young 

age, so I was thrilled when a 

talent scout in a flea market 

spotted me at age 15. At 

the time, I was at St. Anne’s 

College, an all-girls boarding 

school where I embraced new 

friends and the potential of a 

great education. 


My world was about to 

change drastically in a way I 

could never have imagined. 

Within a year of meeting the 

scout, at age 16, I was booking 

more and more modeling jobs 

all across Europe. While this 

was an incredible blessing for 

someone from such a sheltered 

upbringing, it also forced me 

to make tough decisions about 

my life at a young age. 

After two years of traveling 

between Paris, Milan, London 

and South Africa, I took a leap 

of faith and moved to New 

York City to model full-time. 

Separated from everything 

familiar, I relied on my drive 

and ambition as I lived on my 

own overseas. I gave up a 

normal teenage life with my 

family and friends to pursue a 

dream, but what I have gotten 

in return is simply incredible. 

I’ve been blessed to meet 

some very special and unique 

people who have helped me 

along the way and pushed me 

to be the best person I can be, 

both professionally and in my 

personal relationships. Finding 

true friends and mentors in my 

industry has kept me grounded 

during my journey. 

After moving to the Big 

Apple, it wasn’t long before 

Victoria’s Secret found me 

and took me under their 

great big feathery wings. 

With their family of models, 

stylists, designers and artists, 

I’ve continued to grow and 

learn each day. Becoming a 

Victoria’s Secret Angel allowed 

me the opportunity to see a 

completely different side of the 

modeling world. Not only do I 

wear their beautiful products, 

but I am given a voice and 

encouraged to become a part 

of the company. 

Recently I’ve had the 

opportunity to do some 

28 


amazing editorial and high 

fashion work with the incredible 

photographers Mario Testino 

and Bruce Weber. These men 

gave me a chance to show my 

artistic diversity and express a 

genuine love for what I do. Shortly 

afterwards I shot the cover of 

Italian Vogue with Steven Meisel, 

another highly-influential person 

in the fashion industry. With the 

help of these people my career 

continues to grow and change, 

forcing me to take every day as it 

comes. 

After starting my career from 

literally nothing, I will always 

be thankful to the people who 

gave me a chance. I credit the 

success I’ve been blessed with 

to everyone who saw something 

special in me and helped me 

along the way. Most days I still 

wake up feeling like the 15-yearold 

girl from a South African farm 

town, simply overwhelmed with 

gratitude for the journey I am on. 

I could not have become the 

person I am without the values 

instilled in me by my loyal and 

ever-loving parents. 

Despite the high-profile life I 

lead, I’m still happiest and most 

comfortable hiding away on 

a beach with a good pair of 

sunglasses, soft sand and some 

Reggae music. I love exploring 

exercise and nutrition, finding 

new ways to keep my body in top 

shape. 

I can’t express enough thanks 

to the fans who have supported 

me over the years. Your daily 

encouragement and care is what 

keeps my spirits up and puts a 

smile on my face. 

— Candice 


FEATURE 

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 

Up-Close and Personal 

with Nollywood Celebrity, 

Christiana 

Martin 

By Sebastiane Ebatamehi 

When the internationally 

celebrated poet and 

writer, Avijeet Das, 

penned the phrase “She is a 

Volcano of Talents,” he was 

undoubtedly referring to 

Christiana Martin. 

Recognized as one of the most 

talented film-makers and actors 

by any standards, Christiana 

Martin is a leading Nigerian- 

German actress with several 

blockbuster movies to her credit. 

Born on October 26th in 

the bustling city of Warri, Delta 

State, Christiana Martin boasts 

a multicultural heritage, being 

the offspring of a Nigerian 

mother and a German father. 

Recognized as Nigeria’s most 

stunning actress, she also 

showcases a remarkable 

collection of exquisite tattoos. 

Having pursued a robust 

education, Christiana obtained 

her First School Leaving Certificate 

and West African School Certificate 

in Nigeria before venturing to the 

esteemed New York Film Academy. 

There, she specialized in HI-DEF 

Filmmaking and Acting, achieving 

this milestone in 2015 at the Abu 

Dhabi campus. 

Upon her return to Nigeria, 

Christiana made her mark in the 

entertainment industry, gracing 

numerous films and TV series 

including “Gidi Up,” “Breakfast,” 

“Lekki Wives,” “Thieves and 

Weavers,” “Twenty Four7,” “Love 

Notes,” “Four Brothers,” “Midlife 

Blues,” “Mirage,” and several others. 

Throughout her career, she 

has collaborated with industry 

heavyweights like Femi Branch, 

Daniel K Daniel, Tamara Eteiemo, 

Mofe Duncan, Diana Childs, Jimmy 

Odukoya, Uzor Arukwe, Angel 

Ufoma, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Alex 

Ekubo. 

Beyond her acting prowess, 

Christiana also excels in the culinary 

arts. In 2020, she was tapped to 

host the television cooking show, 

“Soup Tube,” where celebrities 

showcase their culinary skills. 

Renowned personalities who 

have appeared as guests on her 

show include Gbenga Adeyinka, 

Uti Nwachukwu, Esther Agunbiade, 

Uche James Iroha, Fred Amata, 

Chris Okagbue, and Efe Henry, 

among others. 

Our team sat down with 

Christiana Martin for an Exclusive 

interview and photoshoot, and the 

multi-talented superstar left no 

stones unturned as she opened the 

doors into her world. Enjoy! 

30 


FEATURE 


FEATURE 

32 


FEATURE 

Christiana, you’re having such 

a successful career in the movie 

industry. What first drew you 

to acting, and what keeps you 

passionate about it? 

Christiana Martin: I got drawn 

into acting after I did a cameo on a 

movie set I was shy at first but then 

I found out I enjoyed that little role. 

After that, I decided to pursue a 

formal education at the New York 

Film Academy. Acting for Film and 

Hi-Definition Film making. After school, 

I loved portraying different characters 

and bringing them to life. That’s what 

keeps me going. 

Can you take us through the 

journey of your career so far? 

What have been the highlights and 

challenges along the way? 

Christiana Martin: After school, I 

produced my first movie SCORNED 

where I won best producer in TINFF. 

After that I have had the opportunity 

to work with a lot of talented actors 

and actresses, learning as I go. I 

just co-produced 2 more movies 

DESPERADOES and A MOTHER’S LOVE 

which you guys should watch out for. I 

have had my fair share of challenges 

but I don’t dwell on them or talk about 

them because they are all learning 

processes. Every mistake is a lesson 

learnt. We just move forward. 

Are there any specific roles 

or genres that you’re particularly 

drawn to? What attracts you to 

these types of characters or stories? 

Christiana Martin: Well, honestly, 

I am very diverse. I could play most 

characters. Soft, tough, crybaby. But 

what matters most to me is being able 

to bring the character to life. I have 

always been drawn to being in a soft 

action movie where I can be tough 

and do some stunts. I don’t do all 

these workouts for nothing. At least let 

me use it to do an action film. Lol 

Tell us about your upcoming 

projects. What can fans expect to 

see from you in the near future? 

Christiana Martin: Well like I 

mentioned earlier I just co-produced 

two movies DESPERADOES AND A 

MOTHERS LOVE which will be out in 

2023 and 2024. I would be trying my 

best to dive into more production. 

So expect more movies from my 

production company - SILENT MEDIA 

PRODUCTIONS, by His grace. 

Building on your successful 

acting career, you’re now exploring 

entrepreneurial ventures. What 

motivated you to venture into 

business, and can you tell us more 

about your new endeavours? 

Christiana Martin: I am the 

Marketer for the factory. I believe 

You can’t have just one source of 

income that is what drove me to get a 

diploma in Digital Marketing. And I love 

being diverse, as a creative I like trying 

different things. From selling my artwork 

as an artist to being a chandler and 

making resin home decorations. 

As a fitness enthusiast, how 

do you incorporate your love for 

healthy living into your busy 

schedule? Any tips for our readers 

on maintaining a healthy lifestyle? 

Christiana Martin: Well fitness 

is a lifestyle for me. It’s something 

I already incorporated into my life 

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

in the morning to be able to get to 

the gym and train for two hours. I 

have built my schedule around that 

time and it all seems to work for me. 

My diet is quite simple because I 

developed IBS last year. And I just 

have to cut out a few things that 

cause me discomfort but I still eat 

like everyone (I love amala) in small 

portions. But I do try to avoid refined 

sugar. I advise people that you 

don’t necessarily have to train like 

an athlete but an hour of walking/ 

jogging would do you good and 

maintaining a good diet also is very 

important. You can’t go to the gym 


and then go and swallow one basin 

of fufu afterwards. 

Are there any particular fitness 

regimens or exercises that you find 

most effective in staying physically 

and mentally fit? 

Christiana Martin: I normally prefer 

working out in the mornings cos it 

makes me feel more energetic during 

the day. And I love HIIT or CrossFit. 

Anything to get my heart racing. I do 

lift heavy. But I don’t advise anyone to 

lift heavy without a proper trainer or 

spotter. 

What advice would you give to 

young actors who are just starting 

out and hoping to achieve the 

success you’ve experienced? 

Christiana Martin: My advice is 

never to give up, go for auditions, 

perfect your craft, and put yourself 

out there. Learn from the people 

before you or people that are already 

there. You can never have too much 

knowledge. And honestly just work 

smarter not just harder. 

Moving forward, what are your 

goals for your acting career? 

Are there any specific roles or 

achievements you’re aiming for? 

Christiana Martin: Well, I am a 

very simple person all I want with my 

acting career is to be a well-known 

household name. My kiddos are 

already very proud of what I have 

been able to accomplish but that 

would be just wonderful to achieve. 

How do you recharge and 

relax when you have a moment to 

yourself? Any favourite hobbies or 

indulgences? 

Christiana Martin: I love the water 

so I am constantly at the beach. 

There is something about the fluidity 

and freedom of water. I also am an 

artist well not Pablo Picasso kinda artist. 

But I have a thing for abstract art and 

abstract geometry. When I am tensed 

up or stressed, I pick up my brush 

and canvas. Some of my artworks 

are being displayed at MOBILIA 

FURNITURES even though they get sold 

out quickly. 

34 



FASHION 

Check Out the Be 

Fall 2024 Show 

By Abigeal Bankole 

The fashion elite has descended 

upon London for the next leg 

of the fashion month circuit, 

and the fall 2024 schedule is 

brimming with excitement. 

This year marks the 40th 

anniversary of London Fashion Week, 

a momentous occasion that the 

city plans to commemorate with a 

grand celebration at 10 Downing 

Street, hosted by the Prime Minister. 

The week ahead promises a total 

of 44 shows and 15 presentations, 

showcasing the whimsical, 

36 


FASHION 

st Photos from the 

s in London 

experimental, and boundarypushing 

designs that have become 

synonymous with British fashion. 

Leading the pack is Burberry, set 

to dazzle audiences with creative 

director Daniel Lee’s latest collection 

for the brand. Meanwhile, Simone 

Rocha, fresh from her couture 

debut at Jean Paul Gaultier, returns 

home to the U.K. to showcase 

her ready-to-wear collection. J.W. 

Anderson, known for his daring and 

commercially innovative designs, 

delights audiences with his playful 

and oversized creations infused with 

Pop art influences. 


Making a highly anticipated return 

to London Fashion Week is Marques 

Almeida, marking their first show in 

the city since 2020. The duo behind 

the brand, Marta Marques and Paulo 

Almeida, previously showcased 

their designs in Porto, where their 

company is headquartered. 

Of course, London Fashion Week 

wouldn’t be complete without the 

avant-garde vision of the city’s 

emerging designers. Central Saint 

Martins alumni Amber W. Smith 

and Susan Fang, along with Paolo 

Carzana, recognized as an LVMH 

prize semi-finalist, are among 

the rising talents set to captivate 

audiences with their innovative 

creations. 

38 



FASHION 

Da’Vine Joy Randolph 

All you Missed at the 

Oscars 


By Praise David 

The glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s 

most anticipated night, the 96th annual 

Academy Awards, brought forth not only 

on-screen magic but also a flurry of 

behind-the-scenes moments that added to the 

excitement. 

Host Jimmy Kimmel kicked off the evening 

with his signature humor, poking fun at various 

topics including Robert Downey Jr.’s past 

struggles with addiction, Robert De Niro’s 

relationship, and the Academy’s omission of 

Barbie director 

Greta Gerwig 

from the 

nominations. 

Ryan Gosling 

Leading 

the pack with 13 nominations, Oppenheimer 

dominated the awards night, followed closely 

by Poor Things with 11 and Killers of the Flower 

Moon with 10 nods. Despite Barbie missing out 

on the Best Picture award, star Ryan Gosling stole 

the show with his performance of “I’m Just Ken” 

alongside Mark Ronson and a lineup of Kens, 

40 


FASHION 

including Simu Liu and Kingsley 

Ben-Adir. The emotional rendition 

of “What Was I Made For?” by Best 

Original Song winners Billie Eilish 

and Finneas O’Connell tugged at 

heartstrings. 

John Cena’s humorous nod to 

a historic streaker at the Oscars, 

and a Twins reunion featuring 

Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny 

DeVito added to the evening’s 

entertainment. Al Pacino’s standing 

ovation marked the end of the 

show with the presentation of 

Best Picture to Christopher 

Nolan’s historical drama. 

Da’Vine Joy Randolph 

kicked off the awards 

ceremony by winning Best 

Supporting Actress, moving 

the audience with her heartfelt 

acceptance speech. Throughout 

the night, stars like Emily Blunt, 

Kirsten Dunst, and Regina King 

mingled and cheered on their 

colleagues, creating memorable 

moments of camaraderie. 

As the night progressed, 

lighthearted interactions 

between celebrities filled the 

atmosphere. From impromptu 

dancing between Robert 

Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo to 

heartfelt embraces shared by 

Bradley Cooper and Robert De 

Niro, the evening was filled with 

warmth and camaraderie. 

Ariana Grande’s extra hug 

for Billie Eilish, and heartfelt 

moments between winners 

like Eddie Murphy and John 

Krasinski, added to the 

emotional highs of the night. 

As the ceremony drew to a 

close, celebrities relaxed and 

celebrated their achievements, 

making memories that will last 

a lifetime. 

Winners 


FASHION ESCAPE 

Global Fashion 

Police: 

Best and 

Worst Dressed 

Celebrities at 

the BAFTAs 



As with any other awards ceremony, the BAFTA 

night was a spectacle of fashion. Dubbed 

as Britain’s Oscars, these awards celebrate 

the finest achievements in cinema for 2023. 

A-listers from both sides of the Atlantic graced the 

red carpet at the Royal Festival Hall in London, 

England, showcasing their best fashion choices. 

However, not every celebrity looks earned 

accolades for being the best-dressed—some were 

unconventional, while others missed the mark 

entirely. 

As we conclude the glamorous evening, here’s 

a roundup of all the stunning, unconventional, 

and disappointing looks from the red carpet. 

Emma Stone 

Emma Stone’s look at 

BAFTA was not flattering 

at all. The Poor Things star, 

who took the Best Actress 

trophy, showed up wearing 

an orange Victorian gown. 

Her one-shoulder dress 

with a dramatic balloon 

sleeve featured a chiffon 

skirt with a textured top. 

Verdict: 2/10 

42 


FASHION 

Emily Blunt 

Emily Blunt’s daring 

sheer dress landed 

somewhere in 

between the best and 

the worst. At 40, Blunt 

made a statement in 

an Elie Saab Couture 

gown embellished with 

intricate beading from 

top to bottom. While 

the dress featured 

striking cutouts around 

the stomach area and 

dramatic sleeves, it 

didn’t quite break new 

ground in terms of 

design. 

Verdict: 3/10 


FASHION 

Naomi 

Campbell 

Lilly 

Collins 

Lilly Collins showed 

up in a breathtaking 

dress at the BAFTA red 

carpet. For the event, 

Collins chose to wear 

an impeccable offthe-shoulder 

gown by 

Tamara Ralph. 

Verdict: 4/10 

Renowned supermodel 

Naomi Campbell 

usually wows with her 

fashion choices, but 

this time, she fell short. 

Campbell graced 

the BAFTA red carpet 

in a flowing gown 

complete with a 

hood, giving off vibes 

reminiscent of a dark 

fairytale witch. 

Verdict: 4/10 

44 


FASHION 

Deepika 

Padukone 

Deepika Padukone 

stole the spotlight in a 

resplendent golden 

saree! Gracing the 

BAFTA red carpet, 

Padukone radiated 

elegance and 

pride for India in her 

stunning ensemble by 

Sabyasachi. Opting for 

a minimalist approach, 

she complemented her 

attire with delicate drop 

earrings and an elegant 

high bun hairstyle. 

Verdict: 7/10 


FASHION 

Margot 

Robbie 

Margot Robbie and 

her Barbie fashion! 

The actress walked 

the 2024 BAFTAs 

red carpet wearing 

a custom Giorgio 

Armani Privé pink and 

black gown with a 

sweetheart neckline. 

Her black opera gloves 

added more drama 

to her. 

Verdict: 3/10 

Dua Lipa 

Dua Lipa dazzled in a 

breathtaking ensemble, 

donning a striking 

floor-length red gown 

with a halter neck and 

complementing red 

cape. Accentuating her 

attire with a diamond 

bracelet, her burgundy 

hair added a hint of 

drama to her overall 

look. 

Verdict: 8/10 

46 


FASHION 

Emma Corin 

Emma Corin and her 

unusual outfits! At BAFTA, 

Emma, who uses they/ 

them pronouns, wore 

an outfit that is hard to 

describe. The Crown star, 

who wore attire from 

Italian fashion house 

Miu Miu, featured sheer 

black pants with blue 

tights and a full-sleeved 

crop top. Corin’s look 

left everyone scratching 

their heads. 

Verdict: 2/10 


The Best Street 

Outfits from Pa 

Week Fall 202 

FASHION ESCAPE 

By Abigeal Bankole 

Paris Fashion Week is always a highly 

anticipated event in the fashion 

industry. It showcases the latest 

collections from renowned French 

fashion houses like Dior, Chanel, Louis 

Vuitton, and Miu Miu. 

But it’s not just the runway that steals the 

show; the street style during Paris Fashion 

48 


Style 

ris Fashion 

4 Shows 

FASHION 

Week is equally awe-inspiring. Fashion 

enthusiasts, influencers, editors, and stylists 

from all corners of the industry come 

together to flaunt their unique and trendy 

outfits. 

Attendees showcased their unique 

fashion sensibilities, pushing boundaries and 

embracing the latest trends. From classic 

and chic looks to bold and experimental 

ensembles, the street style during Paris 

Fashion Week was a true reflection of 

individual style and fashion creativity 


FASHION 

50 


FASHION 


BEAUTY 

BEAUTY 

Can You Use Rosemary Oil for Beauty and 

Hair Growth? What to Know 

52 


BEAUTY 

Sasha Bokamoso 

Rosemary is a culinary and 

healing herb. This woody 

perennial is native to the 

Mediterranean region, where 

it’s been used as food and 

medicine for centuries. 

Much like oregano, 

peppermint, and cinnamon, 

rosemary is frequently found in 

essential oil form. Essential oils 

are highly concentrated and 

distilled extracts of volatile plant 

compounds. These are used 

for cooking, cleaning, beauty, 

health, and other purposes. 

Rosemary essential oil is 

a common variety you can 

purchase and use as a home 

remedy. The oil’s health uses 

range from antioxidant benefits 

and anti-inflammation to 

memory enhancement and 

more. 

In recent years, there have 

been claims that the oil may 

be great for hair growth. Some 

say it could even prevent hair 

loss, pointing to Mediterranean 

cultures’ use of rosemary in hair 

rinses to promote hair growth for 

hundreds of years as supporting 

evidence. 

Can rosemary oil treat 

hair loss? 

The idea that rosemary oil 

encourages hair growth may 

come from the rosemary’s basic 

health benefits. The plant in 

essential oil form is said to: 

Like peppermint essential 

oil (also used to promote hair 

growth), rosemary essential 

oil strengthens circulation. As 

a result, it could prevent hair 

follicles from being starved of 

blood supply, dying off, and 

leading to hair loss. 

Beyond stimulating hair 

growth, rosemary essential oil 

is used to prevent premature 

graying and dandruff. It may also 

help dry or itchy scalp. 

How should I use 

rosemary oil for hair 

loss? 

Here are a few ways to try 

using rosemary essential oil as 

a hair restorative and thickener. 

Try any of these treatments one 

to two times per week to start 

out. Use them more often when 

desired or you’ve become 

comfortable using them. 

1. Massage it directly 

into your scalp 

After mixing about 5 drops 

of rosemary essential oil with a 

teaspoon of carrier oil (like jojoba 

oil or coconut oil), massage 

evenly into your scalp after bath 

or shower. Rinsing out the oil 

afterward is optional — though if 

you do rinse, let the oil sit on your 

scalp for at least 5 to 10 minutes 

beforehand. 

2. Mix it into your 

shampoo 

This can also apply to 

conditioners, lotions, or creams. 

Play it safe and don’t add too 

much. Keep to about five drops 

per ounce of product. Afterward, 

use the product like usual. You 

can also add 2 to 3 drops 

directly to any hair product when 

you apply a dollop of it on your 

palm before use. 

3. Add it to your own 

homemade shampoo 

There are many recipes online 

for a shampoo base. You can 

also add essential oils for your 

preferred health and beauty 

benefits. These may incorporate 

a mixture of baking soda, 

coconut oil, essential oil, and 

possibly other oils. Try this one at 

Tiny Apothecary. 

What should I know 

before using rosemary 

oil? 

Avoid getting essential oil in 

your eyes. If contact occurs, 

quickly rinse your eyes with cold 

water. 

Likewise, be careful not to 

apply too much to your scalp. 

Rosemary essential oil has been 

known to irritate the skin. It may 

cause discomfort, but no health 

dangers. To avoid skin irritation, 

dilute the oil with a carrier oil or 

other product before applying it. 

Not enough is known about 

the safety of using rosemary 

essential oils while pregnant or 

breastfeeding. Though using the 

essential oil for hair loss is only 

done topically, be cautious — 

its effects in this regard are still 

unknown. 

The bottom line 

Rosemary has been used by 

many to promote hair growth 

successfully. Using rosemary 

essential oil could very well do 

the same for you. 

Science and personal 

experience together both 

strongly suggest the essential oil 

does protect against hair loss, 

particularly that related to male 

or female pattern baldness. 

It may even be effective for 

alopecia. 

Rosemary essential oil is a 

simple remedy that you can use 

at home, and it may even be 

competitive with commercial 

products. What’s more, it’s quite 

safe when used correctly and 

yields very few side effects. 


BEAUTY 

6 Top Hair 

Trends to 

Look Out 

For in 2024 

According to the Experts 

By Carol Lee 

Bob Up 

Chin-length bobs have always 

been stylish (Twiggy’s hair in 

the 1972 film The Boy Friend 

immediately comes to mind), 

and everybody’s catching 

on. “Maybe it’s because 

it’s the first of the year, but 

many clients are coming in 

wanting a chop to the chin right now. 

It’s timelessly chic and always in style,” says Macedo. 

It’s pretty easy to style at home, too; use a touch of heat and a 

little product, and you’re out the door. Plus, a quick spritz of dry 

shampoo in the morning keeps it bouncy and fresh in the days 

following wash day. 

Hair is a deeply personal 

experience. It’s a part 

of your identity and how 

you present yourself 

to the world, and the slightest 

change can either make you 

feel euphoric or send you 

spiraling (who hasn’t cried 

because of a bad haircut or 

coloring job?). Entrusting a stylist 

to deliver your desired results 

is a gamble, equally as risky 

as trusting yourself to find a 

hairstyle you’d feel confident in. 

Enter: ELLE.com’s guide to the 

best hair trends of 2024. 

We’re in the throes of a new 

year, so what better time than 

now to switch up your signature 

look? In the past year, TikTok 

users have spawned a barrage 

of hair trends, from Sophie 

54 


BEAUTY 

Volume, Volume, 

Volume 

“With the mob wife aesthetic continuing 

to be popular, I think voluminous styles 

will stay a huge trend for 2024. I see big 

bouncy blowouts and intentionally messy 

updos continuing to be popular this year,” 

says Laura Polko, a celebrity hairstylist 

based in Los Angeles. If 2023 was about 

tight, slicked-back buns, 2024 is the year 

of letting it all loose. Justine Marjan, a 

celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles, 

also predicts “layered cuts with lots of 

volume. We see many more bouncy 

blowouts and naturally looking voluminous 

curls that need a soft layered cut to 

support the added texture and root lift.” 

If you have fine hair that resists teasing, 

Marjan recommends extensions like the 

ones from Great Lengths to add some 

fullness. Just make sure to lock in any 

voluminous style with plenty of hairspray to 

keep it all in place. 

Richie-inspired buns to ‘70s-style 

fringe curtain bangs. As we look 

towards 2024, there are a variety 

of trends to look out for, so we 

compiled a guide to six of the best 

ones to make your new signature 

style. 

In order to gather our top six 

hair trends of 2024, we observed 

product releases, watched the 

runways and red carpets, and 

consulted seven hair stylists and 

experts who know their way 

around a salon chair. Maximalists, 

minimalists, and everyone in 

between are sure to find a trend 

they connect with. Who knows? 

Maybe you’ll want to add volume 

to your hair with hair extensions 

or bleach your hair, too. The 

possibilities, as always, are endless. 

PHOTO: MIKE COPPOLA/GETTY IMAGES 


BEAUTY 

Rebel Pixie 

Harry Josh, a celebrity hairstylist and the 

creator of Harry Josh Pro Tools, says, “I see 

a big, rebellious cut, like the one Florence 

Pugh is known for, becoming popular in 

the coming months. We are seeing a lot of 

short, dramatic haircuts replacing the long, 

wavy look that we have ruled the media for 

the last 10 years.” Chopping your hair is an 

easy—albeit dramatic—way to switch up 

your vibe in a flash, and it might be time for 

those wanting to make a bold change to 

finally take that step. Amy Abramite, a stylist 

and the creative director at Maxine Salon in 

Chicago, recommends salon visits for touchups 

every four weeks when sporting this style. 

“Daily styling is low maintenance—no hot 

tools required. Push up and off the face with 

wax for a mussed-up matte finish and hold,” 

she adds. 

Bleach 

Blonde 

Not everyone is into lowmaintenance 

looks. Bleaching your 

hair is still very much en vogue, 

as evidenced by celebrities like 

Beyoncé and Rihanna. And it’s 

not just platinum blonde hair that’s 

getting all the love. “Warm colors 

are also becoming popular. Think 

honey and golden blondes,” says 

Renegar. If you try this yourself, 

be sure to use bond-supporting 

products that help to reduce 

and repair damage if or when it 

happens. 

56 


BEAUTY 

Bond Girl 

L’Oréal Professionnel and Kerasilk are entering 

the molecular bond repair game and for good 

reason, it just works. “Users can see and feel the 

noticeable improvements in hair strength, texture, 

and appearance. Thanks to innovation and social 

media, there’s an increased awareness about hair 

health and the effects of coloring, thermal styling, and 

environmental stressors. When paired with the in-salon 

treatment and at-home care, the results are impressive, 

as damage and breakage are addressed with this 

scientific approach,” explains Min Kim, the global 

ambassador of L’Oréal Professionnel. These formulas 

don’t just work on the surface of your strands; instead, 

the amino acids within them repair the inner structure 

of each hair, effectively reversing damage and leaving 

you with silkier, healthier hair. 

Au Naturale 

If you’re tired of regular salon visits and your 

hair is begging for a break, this is set to be 

your year. According to Cody Renegar, 

a celebrity hairstylist who splits his time 

between Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., 

and Arkansas, the coming months will be all 

about falling in love with the hair color and 

texture your mama gave you. “Au naturale, 

classic looks, but with a personal edge, will 

be trending in 2024. I see people returning 

to their roots—pun intended. People are 

really leaning into the low-maintenance 

thing right now,” he says. So whether you’re 

letting your roots grow in or learning to work 

with your curly hair, you can trust that you’re 

right on trend. “I’m seeing more and more 

wanting to embrace their natural texture. If 

you have a great haircut, all you need is a 

little product to assist—whether to de-frizz or 

encourage curls—and you should be able 

to have a beautiful air-dry,” Kelly Macedo, 

a stylist and the owner of Interior Hair in Los 

Angeles, explains. 

` 


ESCAPE 

Venice: 

The Romance 

Capital of the 

World 

By Praise David 

The Italian city of Venice 

surely makes it onto every 

traveller’s must-see list. It is a 

destination unlike any other, 

with a reputation for romance 

that surpasses even that of the 

Italian capital, or Venice’s near 

neighbour that was the setting for 

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. 

Why is Venice so associated 

with romance? Well firstly, you can 

whisper sweet nothings into your 

beloved’s ear without the sound 

being drowned out by traffic. 

The main tourist area of Venice 

is entirely car-free, which is most 

conducive to romantic wanderings 

by the canal at twilight, dinner à 

deux in an intimate trattoria, and 

watching the sun set over the 

buildings painted in the softest ice 

cream colours. 

Apart from near silence, there’s 

the all-encompassing presence 

of the water. There is literally a 

canal around every corner in 

Venice. Your hotel is very 

likely to afford you some 

sort of vista of one canal or 

another, so you can watch 

the gondoliers serenading 

their clients as they punt along 

the water. Wandering the cosy, 

cobbled lanes of Venice is one 

of the pleasures of a visit to this 

beguiling city, and the shimmer 

of the water at the end of an 

alley or far corner of a square is as 

enticing a sight as you’re likely to 

behold anywhere on earth. 

The city’s squares are another 

big draw for those visiting Venice. 

St Mark’s in the biggest and best 

known, and is home to the Basilica 

di San Marco as well as some 

ancient coffee shops that are 

packed with local character. Close 

by and right on the waterfront is 

the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent 

gothic structure with a distinctly 

Venetian twist, not least in its pink 

marble and white stone facade. 

58 


ESCAPE 

If the food of love for you 

involves exquisite pastries, 

delicious pasta dishes, freshly 

stone baked pizzas and 

gelato in every flavour, you 

can imagine then Venice is 

simply paradise. Shy away 

from the main tourist routes 

and stumble upon your very 

own secret little osteria or 

ristorante, where ordering 

from a menu you cannot 

quite decipher is all part 

of the fun. 

When was 

Venice built? 

Somewhat unusually 

for Italy, the decline 

of the Roman Empire 

was followed by the 

formation of Venice. The lagoon’s 

islands were initially home to 

salt workers and fishermen, who 

were joined by refugees from 

the mainland when they were 

driven out by the Lombards. In 

584 Ravenna was created, with 

representatives from the islands 

forming part of a Byzantine 

authority. In 641, the city of 

Oderzo on the mainland fell to 

the Lombards. By 727 Venice 

had elected their very first duke, 

and there then followed a period 

of political strife, during which 

pro- and anti-Byzantine groups 

struggled for power. 

Finally, the doge (duke) joined 

forces with the Italian Franks and 

thus succeeded in freeing Venice 

from Byzantine control. Trade grew 

rapidly, and Venice dealt with 

nations all over Europe and the 

Middle East, at one point claiming 

Constantinople (now Istanbul). 

During the 9th century, Doge 


ESCAPE 

Domenico Contarini oversaw the 

construction of St Mark’s church, 

which was intended to convey the 

indomitable Venetian spirit as well 

as providing a place of worship. 

At this time Venice had a very 

cosmopolitan mix of residents, 

including Armenians, Greeks, Turks 

and Germans, as well as Jews 

who had been banished from 

elsewhere. The city’s architecture 

still displays influences from a vast 

range of cultures and styles today. 

The Basilica di San Marco is much 

admired for its domes decorated 

in gold mosaic, and the building 

features a Greek cross, Roman 

archways and Islamic style stone 

floors. 

As Venice conquered new 

territories, new booty was displayed 

on the iconic church, so the 

building features Roman bronze 

and Egyptian marble, and shifted 

in style over time, beginning with 

Gothic and ending in Renaissance 

architecture. 

During the 12th century 

Venice developed its very own 

style of Gothic architecture in an 

attempt to compete with other 

European cities such as Paris, and 

in the 13th century vast swathes 

of Romanesque and Byzantine 

structures were replaced with 

grand Venetian Gothic buildings. 

In later centuries, Renaissance was 

all the rage, then this was in due 

course followed by Baroque and 

Neoclassical styles. All of these are 

evident in Venice today. 

When to visit Venice 

The best time to visit Venice very 

much depends on what you want 

from your trip to the city of love. Do 

you want to wander hand-in-hand 

in secluded silence? Or would 

you prefer to party with the hordes 

during the world-famous Carnival 

of Venice? Are you planning to 

spend your time sightseeing, or do 

you want to enjoy some scorching 

Italian summer weather? 

Venice Carnival takes place 

early in the year, usually during 

February, but the dates do change 

in line with Easter as the carnival 

draws to a close with the advent 

of Lent. The most notable and 

best-known nature of Carnevale 

is the masks, which are intricate, 

colourful, incredibly detailed 

and a breath-taking sight to 

behold. If you don’t mind the 

cold – and the crowds – a visit 

during the Carnevale di Venezia is 

unforgettable. 

Apart from the February 

carnival season, the best times 

to visit Venice are during spring 

60 


ESCAPE 

and autumn. It is not too hot for 

sightseeing during April, May, 

September and October, nor is 

the weather too chilly. If you’d 

rather shiver in near-silence, avoid 

the crowds by planning a trip 

during winter, when the icy air 

gives romantics the excuse to 

huddle together and enjoy the 

cosy conviviality of Venice’s indoor 

spaces. 

If you do visit during summer, 

do not despair. July and August 

are undeniably busy, but for some 

this only adds to the atmosphere. 

Venice’s position by the coast 

ensures it is not as hot as other 

inland Italian cities, so you needn’t 

swelter as much as you might 

elsewhere. 

Whenever you can spare the 

time, make sure you go to Venice. 

There’s nowhere quite like it on 

earth, and this is certainly a city 

that, once visited, will never be 

forgotten. 


FOOD 

Greek 

Yogurt: 

Strained Greek-style 

yogurt offers higher 

protein and lower lactose 

content than unstrained 

varieties, making it an 

excellent option for 

fitness enthusiasts. Enjoy it 

topped with granola as a 

healthy snack or part of a 

balanced meal. 

The Best Foods to 

Help You Keep in 

Shape 

By Dana Angelo White, 

M.S., R.D., A.T.C. 

B 

oost your workout success with 

these 10 essential fitness foods 

that serve as potent fuel for your 

body: 

Bananas: 

Rich in potassium, 

bananas are perfect 

for replenishing 

tired muscles postexercise. 

Freeze 

them ahead of 

time for creamy 

smoothies packed 

with nutrients. 

62 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com 

Chocolate 

Milk: 

The carb-to-protein ratio 

in chocolate milk is ideal 

for post-workout recovery, 

backed by growing 

evidence. If dairy isn’t your 

thing, opt for chocolate 

soy milk as a comparable 

dairy-free alternative.

FOOD 

Nuts: Packed with good-for-you fuel, nuts offer 150 

to 200 calories per ounce. Opt for high-protein options 

like pistachios and almonds for a nutritious post-exercise 

snack. 

Lean Meats: Animal 

proteins like chicken, turkey, and 

lean beef provide essential musclebuilding 

blocks. Choose low-fat 

options to support lean and strong 

muscles. 

Eggs: Eggs are a powerhouse 

of protein, Omega-3 fats, and 

essential vitamins like B12 and 

D. Don’t skip the yolks; they offer 

valuable nutrients. Enjoy egg 

sandwiches for a quick post-workout 

breakfast or combine them with 

potatoes for a satisfying weekend 

meal. 

Oatmeal: Not only is oatmeal a 

delicious breakfast choice, but its soluble fiber 

promotes heart health and stabilizes blood sugar 

levels. Start your day with a small bowl topped 

with fresh fruit for an ideal pre-workout meal. 

Lean Meats: Animal 

proteins like chicken, turkey, and 

lean beef provide essential musclebuilding 

blocks. Choose low-fat 

options to support lean and strong 

muscles. 


for more exclusive content please visit 

www.glamsquadmagazine.com 

Glamsquad Magazine is a Women’s Fashion, Culture, and Lifestyle Magazine. 

Targeted at an upwardly mobile segment of the Nigerian and African market, 

Glamsquad seeks to provide inspirational yet attainable fashion, entertainment, 

and lifestyle culturing to Women. 

Contributing to conversations on contemporary fashion, dining, beauty, wellness, music, 

and movies; our goal is to positively shape the conversation on these topics in a way that 

Informs, inspires, empowers, and ultimately entertains Nigerian and African women. 

Glamsquad is for the sophisticated, tasteful, yet fun-loving woman. Let’s hold you by your 

hands into the world of fashion. Like and follow us on any of our social media platforms. 

glamsquadtv glamsquad3 glamsquadTV glamsquadmag 

64

Glamsquad Magazine April 2024

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?