VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
UNVEILING THE INNOVATIONS OF
DR OMOLOLAin Cancer SALAKO Care
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
(60 Years and Above)
No Fees, No Charges, Just Free Banking
-
PAGE 2
Zero Account Charges Zero Naira Account Opening Balance Free Debit Card, Cheque Book and SMS Transaction Notifications (AlertZ) Priority service at all Zenith Bank Branches. Travel and Holiday Offers.
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
CONTENTS
EDITOR’S NOTE
12
CURATED CHAOS Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
13
BEAUTY
14
BON APPÉTIT
15
F
ebruary 4th is World Cancer Day, a day set aside
internationally to raise awareness for the disease known as cancer. The different kinds of cancer are all deadly, ranging from skin cancer to lung cancer, prostate cancer to breast cancer, and the fight to prevent, detect, and treat these cancers continues. Some people have taken it upon themselves to put an end to the rise of cancer in Nigeria; one such person is Dr Omolola Salako, an Oncologist who founded Sebeccly Cancer Care, Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, The Oncopadi app, and Prosecare AI, a digital patient monitoring platform in Nigeria. She decided to start the fight against cancer after she lost her sister to the disease. Her inspiration to become an oncologist stemmed from caring for her sister and a desire to enhance the quality of cancer care in Nigeria. At one of her organisations, Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, their three-fold priority—prevention, treatment, and survivorship, reflects their commitment to closing the cancer gap. According to her, 40% of cancers are preventable, so prevention takes precedence, with an emphasis on educating individuals on reducing their risk of developing cancer and promoting healthy habits. Her interview is very informative; I urge you to read it on pages 8 through 10.
You’ll find more fantastic content on the other pages of this magazine. Until next week, enjoy your read.
Ultimate Guide 04-05 The to Building An Ultra-
FASHION
Feminine Wardrobe
16
REVIEW
Beauty Tips For Looking Good On Camera
Mastering the Art of Mixology The Aquarius Sign
Saltburn
07
The Surprising Health DOWNTOWN Benefits of A Fulfilling Sex Life
CONFIDENTIAL
of Dr 8-10 Innovations Omolola Salako in Unveiling The
COVER
11
Cancer Care
My Friend Fola: Love,
#SWEETGIRL Even in Death DOINGS
WHAT YOU SAID VOL 4 NO. 04 • JANUARY 28, 2024
Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity
- Contributing Editor Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.
Onah
@onahluciaa
+2349088352246
Virtual Glam
DOWNTOWN Understanding the Spirit of the Water Bearers ZODIAC
What is an ultra-feminine wardrobe? It usually features soft hues, delicate prints, and dainty detailing. Pages 4 to 5, our fashion pages, guide you on how to build an ultra-feminine wardrobe. These days, we mostly have virtual meetings; this era is dominated by them and online content creation. But you don’t have to be caught unawares for your next virtual meeting; look your best on camera. Our beauty page shares tips to help you look picture-perfect for your next virtual meeting or when shooting content for social media. See page 13.
There’s Enough To Go Around
Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.
EDUCATION FOR ALL
Addressing Accessibility in Nigeria
@mayreejay I enjoyed this read.. didn’t know what a third place was till now... its not a myth tho.. I believe in balance. Achieving it can be tough for me most times, but anywhere with greenery, water and where I can listen to jazz and soul music... is surely my third place
@wumituase Sweet girl doingsss
AUSTYN OGANNAH
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Lifestyle Editor at Large: Eki Ogunbor Online Editor: Ntianu Obiora Writer: Johnson Chukwueke Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’ Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’
Dorcas Akintoye Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.
@dotunakande Wonderful
www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown
PAGE 3
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
FASHION
The Ultimate Guide to Building an
ULTRA-FEMININE WARDROBE BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
F
rom the frills to the florals, we can all agree that feminine clothing is undeniably attractive. Putting together a beautiful outfit is even simpler with a feminine capsule wardrobe.
WHAT IS AN ULTRAFEMININE WARDROBE? Like a typical capsule wardrobe, an ultrafeminine wardrobe is a collection of versatile pieces that can be easily matched and mixed. The difference between a typical and feminine wardrobe is that the latter is tailored to suit the romantic, graceful, and elegant aesthetic usually associated with feminine style. So, while a typical capsule wardrobe may be created with a minimalist and neutral colour palette, an ultra-feminine wardrobe would feature and embrace a softer hue, delicate prints, and dainty detailing. Below is the guide you need to build an ultrafeminine wardrobe.
2
. MIDI SKIRTS
1
. BASIC BODYSUITS
In building an ultra-feminine wardrobe, you need to start with the basics. Bodysuits help create a seamless look; you don’t need to worry about them bunching up or coming untucked. It is always best when you have different styles of body suits in your wardrobe, ranging from a square-neck body suit to a V-neck bodysuit or even a long-sleeved bodysuit. Make sure to go for neutral colours to match any of the bottoms in your closet. Believe me when I say these flattering staples will be the basics of your wardrobe.
PAGE 4
When it comes to building an ultrafeminine wardrobe, midi skirts are a must. When choosing this skirt style, go for pieces that are guaranteed to stay in style instead of going for micro-trends that come and go. You need to be very careful when choosing colours for your skirt; keep in mind that you need to focus on going for one with simple palettes. At the same time, if you keep your tops and outerwear simple, you can incorporate more colours with your skirts.
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
FASHION
3 PRACTICAL PANTS .
As much as you would love to find pants that work for various occasions, try to choose them in different colours and styles. You can always bring in different fabrics or textures since you will want to choose pants that are easy to style. Do not go for pants that are too similar. Remember that whatever pants you go for needs to work with the other pieces you’ve chosen.
5
.
CROPPED SHIRTS AND SWEATERS Cropped shirts with a high neckline are feminine and easy to pair with highwaisted pants or skirts. They are not expensive, and they can bring variety into your feminine wardrobe. The options in this category are endless but go for neutral colours for more wearability.
4
.
POPS OF PATTERNS
Incorporating a few patterns into your wardrobe is good because they are versatile. For instance, a neutral floral pattern will match your neutral sweaters or bottoms. Even though a patterned dress won’t need to match any bottoms, you can always pair them with a cardigan. In case you don’t know, a patterned dress helps bring a feminine flair to your closet.
6
.
LINEN DRESSES A linen dress will last you very long if they are taken care of. Linen is a fabric that flows beautifully; it is static-resistant and an extremely comfortable, breathable natural fibre. Linen is one fabric that can never go out of style and is very versatile. When you have this piece in your wardrobe, it means you have something you can quickly throw on and at the same time look both classically feminine and put together.
CONCLUSION
These tips provide the foundation to build an enduring feminine wardrobe, from getting a midi skirt to body suits. You can make your memory a lasting one and your style unforgettable by choosing outfits that express the timelessness of the feminine spirit.
PAGE 5
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
PAGE 6
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL
The Surprising Health Benefits of
A FULFILLING SEX LIFE BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
R
egarding well-being, few things in life are as closely related to our health as our sexual lives. A satisfying sexual life can make a big difference in one’s general physical and mental health, even beyond the obvious benefits. This list of unexpected health advantages demonstrates the importance of fulfilling and engaging relationships.
1
. STRESS REDUCTION
5
. PAIN RELIEF
You can reduce stress naturally by having a satisfying sexual life. The “feel-good” hormones, oxytocin and endorphins, are released by the brain during sexual activity. These substances support peace and relaxation by lowering stress levels. Therefore, think of an intimate connection as a stressbuster the next time you feel overwhelmed.
It may surprise you to learn that having sex is an excellent way to reduce pain naturally. Menstrual cramps and migraines can both be relieved by the analgesic effects of endorphins, which are released during sexual activity. These effects are in addition to elevating mood. It turns out your body may use a fulfilling sexual life as a natural means of coping with pain.
6
. MOOD ELEVATION
4
. CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
2
. IMPROVED SLEEP QUALITY
It may surprise you to learn that having a fulfilling sexual life can help you sleep better. The hormone prolactin, which promotes feelings of relaxation and sleepiness, is released by the body after climax. A fun and healthy approach to improving the quality of your sleep and your sense of overall well-being is to have sex before going to bed.
3
.ENHANCES IMMUNE SYSTEM
Regular sexual activity has been linked to a healthier immune system. Extra defence against common illnesses can come from the generation of antibodies and the growth of immune-stimulating cells during intercourse. Thus, while exercise and a healthy diet are essential for immunity, don’t undervalue the benefits of having a fulfilling sexual life for your immunity.
Beyond relieving stress, having a satisfying sexual life can have a significant impact on your mood. An increased feeling of happiness and contentment is a result of the production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters during sexual engagement. This improvement in mood goes beyond the bedroom and benefits many areas of your everyday life.
Regular sex is like going to the gym. It encourages a healthy circulatory system by getting the heart to beat and the blood moving. Improved heart health can be achieved through increased blood circulation by lowering the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Consider it a fun approach to maintain heart health.
CONCLUSION A satisfying sexual life has many advantages for both physical and mental health that go well beyond the bedroom. Adopting a fulfilling sexual relationship can be a crucial part of a holistic approach to health, helping with anything from stress reduction to cardiovascular health and beyond. So, let’s celebrate the unanticipated pleasures that come with a healthy and successful sex life.
PAGE 7
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
COVER Unveiling The Innovations of
Dr Omolola Salako in Cancer Care
What inspired you to become an oncologist, and how did your journey in the field of oncology begin? The turning point for me occurred in 2003 when my younger sister was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Witnessing her journey through this challenging time was like riding a roller coaster of emotions. Initially diagnosed in Nigeria, she eventually sought treatment abroad, highlighting a stark contrast in the level of care and pain control. As a medical student, it became evident that there was a significant gap in cancer care within Nigeria. The stress, pain and sadness cancer patients and their loved ones go through is a challenge then and now, and I made up my mind my goal to contribute to solving this menace called cancer. This realisation fueled my determination to contribute to improving the cancer care ecosystem in the country. At that time, there were only about 30 Clinical Oncologists in Nigeria, and today, despite some progress, we still have less than 95 Clinical Oncologists distributed across approximately 18 states in the country. My inspiration to become an oncologist stemmed from caring for my sister and a desire to enhance the quality of cancer care in Nigeria. I became an Oncologist a decade ago, and I am working hard to reduce patients’ stress, creating innovative solutions such as the Oncopadi app to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals facing cancer. As an Oncoprenuer, what challenges do you face in founding your various cancer care organisations? And how did you overcome them? Firstly, let me define what an Oncopreneur is. It’s a term I coined to describe a creative individual who confronts problems head-on, swiftly developing and implementing innovative solutions. As Nigerians, many of us are hardwired entrepreneurs, whether genetically or environmentally induced. An oncopreneur is a dynamic entrepreneur who excels in oncology, creating substantial value for the cancer ecosystem while fostering personal and professional growth, all while reaping profitable rewards. My journey into founding cancer care organisations began in 2006, two years after my sister’s passing, when I established the first venture, an NGO called Sebeccly Cancer Care. The second startup is Oncopadi Technologies, a digital innovation company. The third startup is Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital. While the process of founding organisations (ideation)has generally been driven by passion and a commitment to solving the myriad cancer care barriers prevalent in Nigeria, the challenges often surface during the implementation and execution of day-to-day operations and sustainability.
T
oday, February 4th, 2024, marks World Cancer Day, an international awareness day led by the Union For International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise cancer awareness and, most importantly, encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. Among other types of cancer, ranging from lung cancer to skin cancer and even to prostate cancer, breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death among women overall. Even though men are not left out in the risk of getting cancer, women are particularly more vulnerable and susceptible to breast cancer, and their risk increases with advanced age. As the world recognises World Cancer Day, we can’t help but appreciate individuals, organisations, and advocators committed to putting an end to the rise of cancer in the country and, most importantly, how they are working so hard to make cancer control a national health priority. Leading this movement is Dr Omolola Salako, she is an “Oncopreneur” who founded Sebeccly Cancer Care, Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, The Oncopadi app, and Prosecare AI, a digital patient monitoring platform in Nigeria. Through her several vibrant start-ups, she has been able to create solutions that have so far increased people’s access to accurate cancer information, treatment, and prevention services. She is one of the 81 Clinical Oncologists in Nigeria skilled in the multidisciplinary management of solid cancers. Dr Omolola Salako is on a mission to help people, especially women, prevent, treat and survive cancer. In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, she offers insight into her career path from being an oncologist to owning more than three cancer care organisations in Nigeria. She talks about what triggered her interest in cancer care, the rise of breast cancer and how to control it, her perceptions of the enormous influence that technology has on cancer care, and the intricacies of cancer care in Nigeria, highlighting the development, challenges, and inventive spirit that needs to be adopted to drive the sector ahead.
PAGE 8
Setting up the corporate structure, a positive work culture, recruiting and maintaining a high-performance team aligned with the values, managing multiple stakeholders, standardising the processes, marketing, figuring out the business models and raising funds, whether it be grants or sales of the product or services of are just some of the duties of an oncopreneur, and it gets super demanding. Some of the challenges I’ve faced include difficulties in finding and managing human capital effectively. The second challenge revolves around ensuring the sustainability of the services, ensuring they are consumed and appropriately paid for to ensure continued operation. The third hurdle is navigating the rugged economic landscape in Nigeria, where establishing and running an organisation requires meticulous consideration of every aspect, from purchasing medical supplies in light of inflation to the massive brain drain. In summary, the passion for addressing issues might drive the founding phase, but you must equip yourself with new knowledge, skills and networks to stay ahead of the risks. As far as I am concerned, there is no challenge that I cannot tackle because I have faith in God, and I seek His counsel to do what I do. Tell us about the vision of Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital and how it contributes to cancer treatment in Nigeria. Certainly, Peal Oncology’s inception and conceptualisation was as far back as 2006. It’s a divine vision of old that manifested in January 2021 and was rooted in delivering quality cancer care. The vision that had lingered since 2006 took a tangible form with the launch of Peal Oncology Specialist Hospital in January 2021, expanding into a full-fledged hospital by December 2023. Our vision is to be the preferred choice of humane cancer care and an ally to conquer cancer in Africa.
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
COVER Through our chain of cancer centres, research, education and technology, our mission is to prevent, treat, cure and palliate cancer while advancing calm, clarity and hope in every patient interaction. At Pearl Oncology, our three-fold priority (PREVENT. TREATMENT. SURVIVORSHIP) reflects our commitment to closing the cancer gap. Firstly, prevention takes precedence, with an emphasis on educating individuals on reducing their risk of developing cancer and promoting healthy habits because 40% of cancers are preventable. Secondly, we prioritise treatment, recognising that early detection significantly increases the potential for a cure. We employ multidisciplinary cancer treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, and target therapy. Lastly, our third priority focuses on survivorship, acknowledging that the journey doesn’t end with treatment. We recognise that it can be a lonely and scary journey when dealing with cancer. Our goal is to guide our patients and their loved ones towards finding peace and clarity in the face of cancer. Survivorship at Pearl Oncology goes beyond the physical cancer treatment aspect, recognising the multifaceted nature of a human being. We provide a serene environment, counselling, digital tools, telemedicine consultations, and monthly support group meetings led by wellness and health experts. These meetings cover various topics, including treatment, diet and nutrition, mental health, and coping strategies.
that connects the patient and the healthcare team so that the patients feel better or so that the patient’s side effects can be managed. The power of PROSE AI is that it solves the side effects that cancer patients face daily. I would estimate that 60% of cancer patients cannot reach their oncology team or their medical doctors when they need to report a side effect. For example, if the patient has a side effect during the weekend or maybe 7 p.m., most cancer clinics close around 4-5 p.m. Hence, the doctors are no longer there, but PROSE AI provides clinical information and advice on how patients can care for themselves as they experience side effects. The doctors can review these reports and understand what their patients are going through remotely. PROSE AI allows our patients, their caregivers and family members to report their side effects and receive immediate clinical advice. In your extensive experience, how has the landscape of cancer treatment evolved in Nigeria over the past two decades? Fortunately, there is some progress, albeit slow in comparison to the rate at which cancer patients are dying. The first area of improvement would be the evolution of the Government cancer centres; in the past, most of our cancer centres were fully government-owned, government invested and managed, but now we have a growing number of PPPs (Public Private Partnerships) that appear to be sustainable and are overcoming the unique challenges of a PPP. Every year, we see more financial institutions, corporations, and high-net-worth
recorded over 28,000 newly diagnosed breast cancer cases in Nigeria, which represented about a quarter of all newly diagnosed cancer cases. Statistics show that 69.1 in every 100,000 Nigerians will have breast cancer, with a mortality rate of 6.23 per 100,000 persons. According to the World Health Organization, 99% of breast cancer patients are females. Common fears and challenges faced by these patients include lack of financial resources, poor social support systems, inaccessibility to healthcare services, spirituality, poor patient awareness and education, stigmatisation, etc. Developing countries like Nigeria tend to face these challenges more and must combat poor budgetary allocations for healthcare and poor health insurance schemes for the population. So, at Sebeccly, Oncopadi, or Pearl, we are focused on solving a few of these problems by promoting cancer prevention and early detection, treatment and survivorship programs. The TimeToScreen Program is a community campaign that provides cancer screening prevention services to corporations, the Women’s Network, etc, so that we can help more people prevent cancer and be aware of the early warning signs. So first of all, all cancer, most especially breast cancer, starts as a very tiny disease, microscopic in nature- we can’t see it, we can’t touch it, we can’t feel it. Then, it becomes big enough to be detected during medical check-ups. So, some of the initiatives we have and must continue are to conduct community outreach to provide early detection and screening services to women, such as breast and cervical screening services. We also ensure that for women that we screen who have a breast abnormality, like a breast lump, nipple discharge, or breast skin changes, we navigate them through the complex health care system. We ensure that they go to the next step, the second step, the third step, and the fourth step to confirm if the lump they have is cancerous or not. Most times, a woman with a breast lump will present for a clinical assessment, and we would, at the end of the day, discover that the breast lumps are not cancerous. However, it’s essential to get to the end of the assessment: “What is this breast lump? Is it breast cancer or not?”.
“When cancer patients are on treatment like chemotherapy, chemotherapy is given every three weeks or sometimes weekly. When the patient takes the first dose, for example, and they go home a few days after, she may experience side effects such as diarrhoea, vomiting, feeling very tired, and feeling very sick ”
Our commitment is to equip our patients with the tools they need not only to survive but to thrive in the aftermath of cancer diagnosis and treatment. We provide affirmations, navigators, counselling sessions, and support for patients and their relatives, recognising that the journey involves not just the physical battle against cancer but also the mental and emotional aspects. This vision and mission propel Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital towards making a meaningful impact on cancer survivorship in Nigeria.
Prosecare AI is a digital patient monitoring platform. How does it enhance patient engagement and support in the context of cancer care? So, Prosecare AI is one of our survivorship tools. It’s an AI digital patient monitoring platform that helps cancer patients track and manage treatment-related side effects. The Proscare app is currently used in the clinical and research setting by hundreds of cancer patients with over 16 cancer types on treatment across Nigeria. When cancer patients are on treatment like chemotherapy, chemotherapy is given every three weeks or sometimes weekly. When the patient takes the first dose, for example, and they go home a few days after, she may experience side effects such as diarrhoea, vomiting, feeling very tired, and feeling very sick. What PROSE AI does is that it allows patients to report how they feel immediately from the comfort of their homes. I vomited twice. I feel so tired I can’t stand up from bed. At the back end of the PROSE AI app, a team of healthcare professionals monitor and track those side effects and provide clinical advice. This way, our patients are not left alone to selfmanage or travel to the hospital to report their side effects. They know they are at home, but they are still connected to their cancer care team. In reality, thousands of cancer patients are stranded when they have side effects, they can’t reach or connect with their team, and they can’t get clinical advice, so PROSE AI is a digital patient symptom monitoring app
individuals investing and spending billions of naira to provide modern radiotherapy facilities in government hospitals and private cancer centres. With over 200 million people, Nigeria should have more than 300 radiotherapy facilities. However, even though the government is setting up and funding new radiotherapy centres, we still need more than the ideal radiotherapy machines in the country. The second progress is that cancer advocacy has yielded some big wins. Some cancer advocates, NGOs and survivors are hard at work creating awareness and highlighting the wicked problems cancer patients face daily. Under the umbrella of the Nigerian Cancer Society, there is better communication and collaboration between cancer stakeholders. We are still far from maximising the power of united cancer voices. The government is alert to the cancer care needs and recently launched the Nigerian Institute of Cancer Research and Training, tasked with stemming the tide of cancer in the country. And as they roll out and implement their plan, we look forward to better cancer control. Again, the landscape has evolved with innovative financing for cancer care. The Federal Government launched the catastrophic health fund a few years ago, triggered by cancer advocacy. This fund provides free cancer treatment worth one to two million naira. Some patients have benefitted from this fund, but the larger pool of beneficiaries has yet to be discovered or presented. All stakeholders must remain financially accountable, measure the impact of the scheme and disseminate the findings and lessons of the catastrophic health fund. There’s also the rise of indigenous technological products built for Nigerian cancer patients and cancer centres. Oncopadi is an example of a digital product serving over 2,000 cancer patients and their loved ones. Next Wear Technologies also produced a wearable techenabled bra that helps women detect breast cancer earlier. Breast cancer is a significant focus for you. What initiatives or strategies do you believe are essential in raising awareness and promoting early detection? Breast cancer is a focus because it’s the cancer with the most significant problems. It’s the most common cancer in Nigeria. It is the leading cause of cancer death. At the beginning of this decade, the International Agency for Research on Cancer
Another initiative we have is, if a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, we take her through the Cancer Coaching Program, where we counsel the woman on the disease, what to expect, what the possible treatment options are, how we’re going to monitor, we focus on wellness and recovery which include mental health, nutrition, finances, relationships, spirituality. Our goal is to address all the dimensions of life. Then we have the Thank God It’s Friday Breast Clinic. This clinic is held every Friday for our breast cancer patients who require support and financial support. On this day, we provide discounted treatment up to 40% discount. Sebeccly Cancer Care raises funds from various donors, and Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital provides treatment. What role do you think public awareness and education play in reducing the stigma associated with cancer in Nigerian society? Public education is crucial. An informed society, an educated society, you know, is a healthy society. Also, in cancer care, what types of cancers are preventable?
PAGE 9
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
COVER Some cancers should not occur because we know certain risk factors are causing them. And if people, if the general public, know how to modify these risk factors, they reduce their chances of developing these preventable cancers. A common preventable cancer is cervical cancer. It’s caused by a virus, human papilloma virus. It is transmitted during sex. However, some women, a lot of women, after sex, can clear the virus by themself. The immune system will take care of it and eliminate the virus. But a group of few women in which this virus stays quiet on the cervix, stays there for many, many years, 10 years, 20 years. And 20 years later, it begins to form a rash, which we call (PRECANCER), and then a few years later, it causes full-blown cancer. So, if such a woman had gone for her medical checkup and cancer screening, it wouldn’t have happened. We would detect the precancer stage, treat it and prevent it from becoming full-blown cervical cancer. We would detect it in the rash stage and then treat it. So, when it comes to public awareness, we want to ensure that the general public knows that 40% of cancers are preventable. And this is how to prevent it. This is where you can go for medical screening, check-ups, and vaccination. It’s also about the daily habits. Are you drinking up to three litres of water a day? Do you have enough vegetables and fruits in your diet? Are you eating too much carbohydrates, sugar, fat, and oils? Is your diet balanced? Are you physically active? Do you take up to 10,000 steps a day? How are you managing your stress levels? Are you constantly stressed? Do you have any health conditions like diabetes or hypertension? Is that well-managed? Have you contracted one of the viruses that are associated with some cancers? HIV, for example. If someone is HIV-positive, they must use their medications religiously because they have a higher risk of developing certain cancers than a non-HIV person, and that means that they have to do certain medical check-ups earlier than a nonHIV person. For example, an HIV-positive woman has to do her cervical cancer screening earlier and more frequently than a non-HIV woman. Chronic Infection with Human Papilloma Virus causes cervical cancer. The good news is that there’s a vaccination that protects against it, and the federal government has rolled out a massive vaccination campaign to vaccinate more than 7 million girls in Nigeria for free. How many mommies and daddies are taking their children, their girls, for this vaccination? So public awareness is crucial in helping us educate the public to stay healthy, to go for their medical check-up, and to know where to go when something is wrong with their health. When it is suspected that it is cancer, it will help them to know the right facilities to go to to get treated because there are very few hospitals equipped to treat cancer, which is the situation we see a lot in Nigeria, where cancer patients have been to like five hospitals on this cancer issue. Still, they are
PAGE 10
not being told or referred to the right cancer centre. So that’s the role of public education. And these days, we can educate the public through social media and dedicated websites that inform the public, and so on. With your vast experience, what changes do you hope to see in Nigeria’s overall healthcare system, especially cancer care? So, the first one is the low-hanging fruit. Let’s help the population prevent the 40% of preventable cancers. Let’s roll out a national cancer screening initiative where wherever men and women at a certain age have access to
the screening service. We can’t compare ourselves to high-income countries where they say every three years or every once a year, the woman should get screened. If we have limited resources, we can say every once in five years, And in situations where it has to be free, we should have initiatives funding those indigent patients. But what I would like to see in the next two years is a successful national cancer screening service available in the 36 states of Nigeria, which people can access without bureaucracies or stress. Beyond the professional realm, what hobbies or activities bring balance and joy to your life amidst the demanding nature of your career? I have a lot of hobbies. I travel. I love music. I don’t know what they call people who know the music lyrics. There’s no song they will sing on my favourite station that I don’t know. If I don’t know the lyrics, I know the tune. I listen to music every day because it makes me happy and gets me more creative. I paint. I draw. I spend time with my family. And, yeah, I have a weird sense of humour. I always find a funny interpretation of random things. I also have a self-care routine, where I take care of all the dimensions of my health, like physical and mental health.
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
EKI OGUNBOR
#SWEETGIRLDOINGS
MY FRIEND FOLA: @ekiogunbor
Love, Even in Death
O
ne fine Friday, I was tidying up my room and looking for what to wear the next day while Sex And The City was playing in the background. At some point, my mind drifted (as usual), and I started thinking about topics I’d like to write about here. I had an idea to write about a friend. My spirit wanted to write about someone who’s no longer with us, someone who wasn’t even my friend when she was here. So, I pushed it out of my mind. I would go on to look for outfits, but I’d still have “my friend...” ringing in my mind, only to finally ask, “Lord, who do you want me to write about?”
I cosied up in bed with my cup of chamomile and lavender tea, picked up my phone in my other hand, and started scrolling through Instagram. One page led to another and then another, and I stumbled upon a TV presenter’s page— she hadn’t posted in about two years. I noticed a reel from her 30th birthday party was one of the last things she posted. I clicked, I watched, I saw Fola. I sent Fola’s page to one of my best friends and said, “Still can’t believe it.” Preppin’ to go to my friend’s house, I had to go through our saved messages to be sure of her house address because I tend to get my numbers
Other friends would go on to sing and say more heartwarming things about Fola Francis. “Fola lived in a way that was ridiculously audacious.” “She knew who she was and who she wanted to be.” “Fola takes friendships so seriously.” “She made me comfortable to say I love you at the end of every call. Even when she’d say it and I’d cut off, she’d call me back and say, ‘Bitch, I said I love you, say it back!’”.
That last part got to me. Being selfless enough to find joy in giving others what you were robbed/deprived of. There’s something to learn there. We did tequila shots as is customary Fola Francis’s behaviour. We took photos and had cocktails and food. My friend asked if I wanted to write something on the memory wall, and I said, “No, I’d write it all in my column because I KNOW Fola wants me to write about her and my experience here today”.
Getting dressed, I dismissed my initial Saturday outfit and picked out a simple black dress. If you know me well enough, you’ll know I love bright colours, so I thought I’d add some colour. I looked through my crop tops and picked a loose-fitting, pastelcoloured, tie-dye crop top by Fola Francis. Suddenly, the pain from her death hit me all over again.
The feeling got too overwhelming, so I started working on a solution. I lit a candle and made myself some tea—self-care.
Love out loud before time runs out.
“When the world was unfair to her, she created a safe space for others.”
The next day, I woke up super early but feeling low. The outfit I had picked was looking at me like, “Are you really going for that thing?” But we both knew the answer.
You see, Fola and I never really had much of a relationship, but her death hit me really hard. I saw Fola on the 10th of December. We had a great time at our mutual friend’s picnic. And on the 21st of December, she was no more? It was too soon. Fola had been so excited about her 30th birthday this year, and I was pained she wouldn’t get to celebrate that milestone with her tribe. Her passing also hit me hard because I felt I didn’t have enough time to know her better, and we could have been good friends.
everywhere that day. A friend of hers spoke about feeling like a fraud because she hadn’t known her as long as her other friends that were present. I felt that. She mentioned how Fola would always invite her out, but being the introvert she is (much like myself), she’d hardly accept them because she always thought they had time.
mixed up. Was it 35 or 36? While scrolling through, I saw Fola’s bank details because I wanted to buy items from her business. I saw her full name, Folajuwon Francis. I couldn’t believe it. I had just seen her video on a random page I don’t follow, and now I’m seeing her full government name. Hmm. I said a prayer; it was getting weird. I got in the car and arrived at her place. Ate dodo and literally told her, “This is food for champions, and I know because I’m a champion.” Carry your affirmations everywhere you go, sweetie! While eating, her housemate (one of my favourite fashionistas ever) came into the room and mentioned it was Fola’s memorial today and asked if we were going. I was in absolute shock. After everything I had experienced today, leading up to this moment? Wearing her crop top, seeing her having fun at a party, seeing her full name? I knew I had to go. I explained everything to my friend, and she too was convinced I had to go so she got up and got dressed. Her photos, her friends’ words, cries, and tears filled the venue of the memorial. It was palpable. Fola was
My friend Fola was never really my friend when she was here, but whenever we saw each other, she made me feel like we were. If I went to an event, and the only person I knew there was her, she made this socially anxious girl feel welcome and at home. I was comfortable with her. I admired her, and I loved her style. We both loved fashion, and we both loved to be happy. And from all I heard on Saturday, we both loved deeply, and I wish we had more time to explore what our friendship could be, but I get the feeling Fola knew that too, even before I’d written this. Even in death, I felt Fola’s love that day. We miss you.
SGD Spotlight Song of the week: Pink + White by Frank Ocean On our way home, this song played in the car, and this part stood out to me; “Just the same way you showed me (You showed) If you could die and come back to life Up for air from the swimming pool You’d kneel down to the dry land Kiss the Earth that birthed you Gave you tools just to stay alive And make it out when the sun is ruined That’s the same way you showed me, showed me You showed me love.” Fola, you showed us love.
PAGE 11
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
CURATED CHAOS
NTIANU OBIORA @ntianu
THERE’S ENOUGH TO GO AROUND i Friends, H I want to talk to you about
something that’s been on my mind a lot lately, something I think we’ve all grappled with in one way or another: the scarcity mindset. It’s this sneaky, pervasive belief that there’s never enough, be it jobs, love, success, you name it. It’s like we’re always in competition, constantly comparing ourselves to others. I’ve noticed how this scarcity mindset creates an undercurrent of insecurity and jealousy. It’s like we’re set against each other, especially as women, in a world that often feels like it’s saying there’s only so much room at the top. You’ve seen it, right? That subtle (or not so subtle) tug-of-war, whether it’s about appearances, careers, or relationships. But here’s the thing: this mindset does us no good. It holds us back, pits us against each other, and fuels negativity. I remember reading about how entire industries thrive on this, you know, the kind that loves to see women tear each other down. It’s a sad reality, but it’s there.
I’ve been there, too, caught in the grip of scarcity, feeling like I had to compete for everything. But I’ve learned something crucial: It doesn’t have to be this way. Shifting our mindset from scarcity to abundance can change everything. It’s about believing there’s enough for everyone and that someone else’s success doesn’t diminish our own. This shift isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about creating a more equitable, empathetic world. When we operate from a place of abundance, we foster community, collaboration, and collective growth. It’s about seeing the potential in each other and ourselves, about lifting each other instead of tearing down. And this isn’t just wishful thinking. There’s real power in changing our mindset. Have you ever noticed how much more you achieve when you’re positive and openminded? It’s that kind of energy that propels us forward. So, how do we make this shift? It starts with selfcompassion and extends to how we treat others.
PAGE 12
It’s about celebrating others’ successes, sharing our knowledge and resources, and creating spaces where everyone can thrive. It’s about replacing jealousy with joy and competition with cooperation. Social media, for all its flaws, can be a tool for good here. It’s a platform where we can build communities, share stories, and spread positivity. We can use it to uplift each other, to learn from diverse perspectives, and to foster connections that transcend boundaries. And remember, it’s not just about thinking positively. It’s about taking action, about being proactive in supporting each other. It’s about understanding that our collective well-being hinges on the well-being of each one of us. So, next time you find yourself slipping into that scarcity mindset, take a step back. Remind yourself that there’s room for all of us to succeed. That your worth isn’t determined by someone else’s achievements. Let’s challenge the status quo together and create a world where abundance is the norm, not the exception. Let’s be the change we wish to see, one mindset shift at a time.
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
Virtual Glam Beauty Tips For Looking Good on Camera
BEAUTY
4
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
. DRESS TO IMPRESS— EVEN FROM THE WAIST UP
A
ppearing your best on camera has become more crucial than ever since we are in an era dominated by virtual meetings and online content creation. These six beauty tips can help you look picture-perfect and ready for the camera, whether you’re shooting content for social media or attending a virtual conference.
Although it may be tempting to focus mainly on the visible parts of your clothing, covering your entire body is crucial. If you do this, you will feel more confident and prepared for any last-minute camera adjustments. Avoid crowded patterns, which can be visually distracting, and opt for colours that complement your skin tone.
5
. PERFECT YOUR POSTURE
3
. MIND YOUR BACKGROUND
1
. ILLUMINATE YOUR SPACE
Your background creates the setting of your online persona. Pick a simple, uncluttered background to ensure you stay the centre of attention. The finest backgrounds to prevent distracting from your appearance are ones with soft patterns or solid colours. A mindful background design adds to a polished and professional appearance while improving your overall appeal.
An effective lighting setup is your secret weapon for looking fabulous on camera. Put yourself before a window or other natural light source for flattering and uniform lighting. Steer clear of bright overhead lighting since it might produce ugly shadows. Your features are accentuated, and blemishes are reduced with soft, diffused light, giving you that desired natural glow.
Not only does good posture convey confidence, but it also enhances your appearance when filmed. Whether sitting or standing straight, keep your posture comfortable and your chin parallel to the floor. In addition to making you seem better overall, doing this helps you prevent any awkward angles that can come from slouching or adopting an incorrect stance.
6
. BE MINDFUL OF YOUR CAMERA ANGLE
The camera angle can significantly affect how you appear on screen. Position your camera slightly above eye level to give a more attractive and slimming impression. Try a variety of angles to see which one best brings out your greatest qualities. During virtual interactions, a strategically placed camera guarantees you project the most polished and photogenic image possible.
2
. MASTER THE ART OF MAKEUP FOR SCREENS
The art of makeup application for the camera is a craft in itself. Choose a matte foundation to minimise shine because glossy finishes can reflect too much light. Concentrate on drawing attention to your eyes using mascara, skin-tonecomplementing eyeshadow, and well-defined brows. Since cameras tend to bleach away face characteristics, don’t forget to add a hint of blush to bring warmth and dimension.
CONCLUSION
Incorporating these beauty ideas into your virtual routine will improve your on-camera appearance. Learning the art of virtual glam can help you look and feel your best for any online occasion, from lighting to makeup and everything in between.
PAGE 13
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
BON APPÉTIT
MASTERING THE ART OF MIXOLOGY BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
aking cocktails at home M can be a fun and fruitful experience. You can explore
and experiment with various flavours and styles, making as much quantity as you want and sharing with friends and family. This editorial will give you ingredients and instructions to make a few popular cocktails to enjoy at home.
Preparing Popular Cocktails from Home. RUM PUNCH INGREDIENTS
Dark Rum, Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Grenadine
INSTRUCTIONS • •
Mix all ingredients in a shaker Pour over ice.
TOM COLLINS INGREDIENTS
Gin, Simple Syrup, Fresh Lemon Juice, Soda Water
NEGRONI INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
1 oz Gin, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz Sweet Vermouth, Orange peel for garnish
• •
INSTRUCTIONS • • •
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into a rock glass over ice. Garnish with an orange peel.
Shake gin, syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Strain into a glass, and top with soda.
LONG ISLAND ICED TEA INGREDIENTS
MANHATTAN INGREDIENTS
Bourbon or Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters
APEROL SPRITZ INGREDIENTS
Aperol, Prosecco, Soda Water, Orange Slice
INSTRUCTIONS
•
•
ESPRESSO MARTINI
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into a glass, and garnish with a cherry.
INSTRUCTIONS • •
INSTRUCTIONS •
Vodka, Tequila, Rum, Gin, Triple Sec, Sour Mix, Cola
•
Mix all spirits and sour mix. Top with cola, and pour over ice.
Combine Aperol and Prosecco. Top with soda, and garnish with an orange slice.
INGREDIENTS
1.5 oz Vodka, 1 oz Coffee Liqueur, 1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso, Simple syrup (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS •
Shake all ingredients with ice in a shaker. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
•
PIÑA COLADA
BLUE LAGOON INGREDIENTS
Vodka, Blue Curacao, Lemonade
INSTRUCTIONS • •
Mix vodka and curacao. Top with lemonade, and pour over ice.
DAIQUIRI SAZERAC INGREDIENTS
Rye Whiskey, Absinthe, Peychaud’s Bitters, Sugar Cube
INGREDIENTS
2 oz White Rum, 3 oz Pineapple Juice, 1 oz Coconut Cream, Pineapple wedge for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS • •
Rinse the glass with absinthe. Muddle sugar cube with bitters, add whiskey, and stir.
INGREDIENTS
White Rum, Simple Syrup, Fresh Lime Juice
INSTRUCTIONS • •
Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled glass.
INSTRUCTIONS • •
PAGE 14
Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
After successfully preparing these few cocktails, you should be on your way to being a professional mixologist. Feel free to explore and create more cocktails, not just the popular ones. There’s always room to make a special cocktail in a way only you can create, so don’t be tight with your creativity. Mixology is an art, so go ahead and let your creative mind run as wild as possible and push limits. ENJOY!!!
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
DOWNTOWN ZODIAC
The
Aquarius Sign Understanding the Spirit of the Water Bearers BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Tiwa Savage, February 5th, 1980
ELEMENT: WATER. RULER: URANUS. GREATEST COMPATIBILITY: GEMINI, LIBRA, AND ARIES. FLOWER: ORCHID BIRTHSTONE: AMETHYST. DATE: JANUARY 20TH-FEBRUARY 18TH.
I
n the vast expanse of the zodiac, Aquarius emerged as a cosmic trailblazer, weaving its unique thread into the celestial fabric. Aquarius stands out as a beacon of innovation, individuality, and humanitarian ideals. The Aquarius zodiac sign is also known as the water bearers. Individuals born in the Aquarius season are most often considered eccentric, with extreme curiosity and a rebellious heart. They are also defined by their intellectual process and commitment to humanitarian ideals.
Water Bearers as Friends
Desmond Elliot, February 4th, 1974
To an Aquarian, friendship is considered sacred. Authenticity is of utmost importance, and they seek friendship that goes beyond surface-level connections. Aquarians are very inclusive when it comes to their social network; they are
diverse as they thrive in a group setting where ideas are exchanged and celebrated.
Independent Spirit
Whether in a relationship, career, or personal pursuit, Aquarians need space to explore and express their individuality freely. Freedom to Aquarians is a lifeblood. Their independence is everything, and they never compromise when it comes to their freedom, as they never let anyone try to clip their wings.
Challenges and Reflection
Despite their strengths, Aquarians have areas they tend to struggle with. Although they are friendly and have a good social network, they also need their personal space and freedom to have their own thoughts. Finding a way to balance these two contrasting parts of themselves can be challenging, as times like this can lead to moments of detachment.
PAGE 15
VOL 4 NO. 05 • FEBRUARY 04, 2024
THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera or click to Scan this with your camera or click access the playlist (Youtube Music) to access the playlist (Spotify)
MOVIE REVIEW:
Saltburn
or much of the movie Saltburn, Faddictive writer-director Emerald Fennell’s second feature, the viewer is caught in the same seductive web as its timid main character, Oliver Quick.
At first, the middle-class — and therefore invisible — Oxford University student, played by the enthralling Barry Keoghan, becomes obsessed with his dashing classmate Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi, on an absolute roll right now), a handsome member of the upper crust. And so do we. Sure, he’s a bit vapid, flaky and self-absorbed. Who cares? Let’s give Felix the benefit of the doubt because he is attractive and rich! When Felix’s bike tire blows, smitten Oliver graciously lends him his ride, and a quick (heh) friendship commences. At this early point, Fennell’s film is at its most mysterious. Standing on a precipice, the tale might be a classier kind of schoolyard romance, like the sort Netflix keeps pumping out. Or, considering she also directed 2020’s #MeToo revenge drama Promising Young Woman, maybe there’s important social commentary on the way. We are totally unsure. From start to finish, the movie is a stiff-upperlipped striptease toward what it’s actually about. After a tragedy befalls Oliver, and Felix invites him to stay the summer at his family’s stately home called Saltburn, perhaps we have been dropped into an episode of Downton Abbey. The literary parallels keep coming. The name Oliver Quick is awfully close to that of a downtrodden Charles Dickens hero. Oliver, bashful and bumbling, meets his wealthy new roommates — the eccentric Catton family — and they’re won over by his personal trauma and patronizingly gush about how “real” he is. The Cattons, however, couldn’t be less genuine. The fabulously vapid mother, Elspeth ( a scene-stealing Rosamund Pike), is a society gossip who stares wide-eyed
PAGE 16
good graces.
WATCH OF THE WEEK at poor Olly like he’s a lost puppy. Sir James Catton (Richard E. Grant), dad, spends his days hiding behind a newspaper and feeling nothing for his wife and children. Sister Venetia (Alison Oliver) repeatedly screws up for attention. And cousin Farleigh (Archie Madekwe) is an American mooch who pathetically strives to stay in the Cattons’
These aloof elites inhabit a grandly envisioned manse that is something between Downton Abbey and something a rapper like Rick Ross would call home. A climactic party is a drunken dream of unfathomable excess, danger and sexiness. While Saltburn is undoubtedly alluring and has the whiff of a thriller, the family’s aristocratic antics are hysterical. So much high-class satire has been on our screens lately, like TV’s Succession and films such as Parasite and Triangle of Sadness, yet Fennell’s jokes are the laugh-out-loud sort that comes as a surprise every time. Equally as unpredictable are Oliver’s journey and Keoghan’s deftly shifting performance. The skill the Irish actor showed much more fleetingly as doofy Dominic in The Banshees of Inisherin thrives here. As he is ensnared by — and ensnares — the Cattons, we witness his ability to be a clown, a relatable everyman, and deeply disturbed all at once. Using similarly opposing forces, the family actors render their characters simultaneously lovable and loathsome. There are three scenes that will prompt some eww’s and maybe a sprinkle of walkouts among those who expected a more Jane Austen-endorsed English estate movie. Think along the lines of Call Me by Your Name. However, what at first appears gratuitous will later enlighten Oliver’s insecurity, status and ambitions. Saltburn, itself, sheds light on what makes Fennell tick as a filmmaker. Lest you think she is a writer and director mostly concerned with feminist stories or, more broadly, big issues, her latest film shows a different side — Fennell is a supremely gifted entertainer. Saltburn has a brain, no doubt about it, but it also has a script that’s written with jet fuel.
Rating:7.5/10
REBEL MOON — PART ONE: CHILD OF FIRE henchmen to plunder and conquer.
Like the Death Star obliterating planets, Zack Snyder is out to topple countless innocent genres. He already turned the DC Comics films into a black hole of misery with the gloomy Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League. And now the diabolical director is also zapping the enjoyment out of outer space in Rebel Moon — Part One: Child of Fire on Netflix. While that winding, buzzwordfilled title sounds like a cheap parody of a science-fiction epic, this is about as unfunny and unadventurous a movie as you could possibly imagine. What Rebel Moon really amounts to is “Zack Snyder Strikes Back.” Our Tatooine rip-off is an orange-hued world called Veldt, where a group of uptight grain farmers push around dirt all day long and then gather in a meeting house to speak like they’re Moses from the Old Testament. They sleep in what resemble 1800s Irish peat houses that are incongruously souped up with electric sliding doors and fluorescent lights. Actually, the overall look of Rebel Moon is a mixed bag of mismatched time periods and multicultural visual references in a desperate attempt to be clever. However, because they so vastly overdo it, none of these places is believable, even in the context of spaceships, reptilian aliens and villains named Balisarius. When the benevolent King of the Motherworld is slain, and the totalitarian Regent (pretty much the Emperor from Star Wars) takes the reins, he sends a storebrand evil admiral named Atticus (Ed Skrein) and his
The thugs demand Veldt hand over most of their precious grain supply, killing several citizens after they refuse. So, secret local badass Kora (Sofia Boutella) embarks on a mission with softspoken farmer Gunnar (Michiel Huisman) to recruit a crew of warriors to help the town. Setting realistic goals, they choose to save several square miles rather than the whole universe. Meanwhile, Kora, a Lara Croft-style femme fatale whose mysterious past has made her a low-key killing machine, moans she’ll never meet the right guy. “I was taught that love is a weakness, and I don’t know how that will ever change,” Kora says. “To love and be loved — I don’t know if I’m capable of either.” Well, what I know is that when a character makes a cement-truck comment like that, they’ll probably tie the knot at the end of Part 2. The rescued townsfolk can throw some of that grain at the happy couple. But first, Gunnar and Kora need to go off and audition fighters. Their search
is an Oceans 11-style montage of various quirky mercenaries, who are all incredibly dull in their unique way. Spinning-and-kicking Nemesis (Bae Doona) gets in an unpleasant bout with a half-woman-half-spider who is stealing another planet’s children. A once-powerful general named Titus (Djimon Hounsou) has slid into drunkenness. Tarzan-y Tarak (Staz Nair) gets his Avatar moment when he tames a wild flying horse and successfully rides it off a rocky cliff. Kai (Charlie Hunnam) is Han Solo. But that is mostly what Part One is — a recruitment exercise. “The Fellowship of the Moon.” With a second chapter on the way, perhaps the clashing finale can be forgiven for being not so grand. One person sacrifices their life dramatically, and we shrug because we’ve only met them a few minutes ago. Another double-crosses the group, and we shrug because we’ve also only just met them a few minutes ago. Maybe Part Two will turn it all around. But its “Scargiver” title makes me miss those Skywalkers even more.
Alvvays - Tile By Tile
Amaarae - Reckless & Sweet
BLK ODYSSY; Bnxn - Lay Low
Bnxn - Testimony
CKay; Amaarae - Show My Side (feat. Amaarae)
Hiatus Kaiyote - Everything’s Beautiful
Joyce Wrice - Kaytra’s Interlude feat. KAYTRANADA
M.anifest; Burna Boy Tomorrow
Yarden - Wetin