Sarima Magazine: May 2020

Sunday, 31 May 2020

AT THIRTEEN, I WAS ALREADY IN THE ADULT ÇHOIR AND I WAS SINGING TILL I MET MY HUSBAND WHO IS A MUSIC PRODUCER, RITA SOUL

It was such an honour having the gorgeous Edo born Gospel Artist, Rita Soul let us in on her walk with Christ, music and family. You would love this!

How did you get saved?

I was eight years when my mother took me to Christ Embassy Church, ikeja Lagos and that’s where I got born again.

How did you resolve music was the deal for you?

I had joined the Church choir since I was twelve years and at thirteen , I was already in the adult choir, so I was singing till I met my husband who is a music producer. He saw the talent in me and started producing my songs since 2012 till date he has been tremendously a great help.

These songs were ordained by God and became songs known to many and that’s how I began to see the light in my career.

Did you ever feel you were not good enough as you grew in the Music Ministry?

Yes , at some point I almost gave up filling I wasn’t good enough but my husband was always there to encourage me.

What genre of music are you into?

I do a lot of genre like hip pop, rnb, church gospel, but my core genre is soul pop.

Tell us about your creative process, what's it like?

I sing to my husband , sometimes he corrects the melodies and lyrics, some times he just goes-ahead to produce the songs .

Interesting, away from music what do you get up to ?

For now I'm a stay at home mum of three wonderful kids.

I pray and speak in tongues for hours daily

How long have you been singing?

I've been singing for twenty-three years

Wow! Totally amazing. Who do you look up to in the Music Industry?

Sinach is one person I look up to.

Can you say we are doing well in the Music Industry especially in relation to Gospel Music?

The Gospel Music Industry could use a lot of support from sponsors.

Which do you consider your best song from all your works?

As we pray, that's my favourite.

Are there new projects we should look out for from the amazing Rita Soul?

Yes, the video , AS WE PRAY will be out shortly, we are almost done with the video shoot.

What is your Philosophy of Life?

The word of God is my everything.

This word is all I am.

What's your message to your fans and aspiring musicians out there ?

Thanking my fans for the love shown towards me .To every aspiring artiste please, don't let anything discourage you from achieving your dreams.

If there is anything you must not abandon , it's your work. Keep working don’t let anything distract you. Your work should be your source of encouragement. Keep working against all odds and excuses you will get there no matter how long it takes.

No excuse is great enough to give as a result for failure.

Thanks for your time.

COPYRIGHT: SARIMA MAGAZINE
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from SARIMA MAGAZINE.

STYLE FEATURE : MENA'S DESIGNS

Wondering what gorgeous looks like ? Here is more than a glimpse.

Mena's Designs is a Port Harcourt based fashion brand that serves bespoke pieces at the best prices.

We have a convenient worldwide shipping option that gets our pieces to your doorstep in a flash.

Shop these and more by visiting our Instagram profile @menasdesigns

BOOKS :A TOOL BY BETSY NWANKWO.

Adesuwa Asoro finds herself in a wrong relationship and this has certainly not been her first. The young man in question, Deola Adeniyi refuses to take responsibility of the child that came through the relationship.

God uses a Medical Doctor, Adamu Bankole as a Tool to bring Adesuwa out of her frustration to God and gives her testimony.

The Novel "A TOOL" brings to our mind the importance of professing our faith in our Work Place and in every sphere of life we find ourselves; whether as a Doctor, Lawyer, Tailor, Artist. God has put us in such places as tools to win others back to Him.

Available for purchase via okadabooks.com

CEO MOMENTS : ESTHER IJEWERE, IMPACTING WOMEN THROUGH HER FOUNDATION, WOMEN OF RUBIES AND MORE

Can we meet you?

I am Esther Ijewere, a social activist, writer, author, convener of several empowerment projects. Mom to 2 wonderful girls and above all a child of God.

You are very passionate about women's rights and matters affecting the female folk, what's the drive?

Passion for humanity and affinity for change. I love to see voiceless women have a voice and thrive wherever they find themselves.

Your organization, Women of Rubies is changing the narrative for alot of women, can you tell us more about it?

Women of Rubies was created specifically to celebrate inspiring women with exceptional stories, the aim is to bring the story of these women to the fore to inspire other women who are finding it hard to own their voice in the society. For us every woman counts, from the professional woman to the home maker, as long as you are adding value, your story is valid.

What can we do better as women that will set us far apart from where we are right now?

To truly support ourselves, not eye service support, just to be seen and heard, but intentional support to lift another woman without telling anyone you adjusted her crown.

Are there proven ways Christian women can achieve and conquer in a fast evolving world like ours?

Be proud of your association with God, Be proud of your faith and religion. These factors will not only open the door for you but also keep you inside. I usually tell people that many of my blessings come from publicly acknowledging God and his authority in my life.

Away from the laudable works with your organization, Women of Rubies, what do you get up to?

I am a Mom, smiles! That’s the most important and best job I have right now. I also run a platform for men in my bid to seek balance and let people understand; Men also matter in the society and their contributions should be acknowledged. I am also a columnist and ghost writer for several media platforms, all this I am able to do with the Grace of God and because I am always willing to take my light wherever he command

What's your philosophy of life and advise for those who look up to you?

Be yourself and do you always. Never compromise your standards or values, be open to learning and growth. Don’t seek validation for your purpose. Live and breathe.

Are there any projects we should be looking forward to from your facility?

We kicked off or #CovidHero Project through our Men Who Inspire Initiative, to showcase men who are adding value during this pandemic, and to promote the culture of kindness in the world. It started on May 15th and it will run for the next 10 weeks by God's grace.

Are there remarkable life experiences you would like to share to motivate someone out there?

When God gave me the Women of Rubies vision , I hid for 2 years for fear of being seen as doing too much, Oh well God then started troubling my dreams with women who are in circles clapping or doing one activity or the other, It became so frequent that I couldn't help but make the move eventually in 2015. That's one life experience I will never forget. The same platform has won many awards than any of the previous projects, and also become like an household name , where every woman knows she is worthy of being celebrated and recognized. I want eveeyone reading this interview to always be willing to surrender to God's assignment. When he gives you a vision, he makes way for provision. You can't run from your destiny, especially if it's tied to other people and the glory of God.

What is success mean for you personally and for your foundation in years to come?

For me success is helping someone who can never pay you back. If you can attain that position to always want to be there for others; with your time and whatever resources God has deposited in you, and your ability to fix other people’s crown without being scared of yours falling. That’s my personal view of success and it is also spreads to my organisation.

COPYRIGHT: SARIMA MAGAZINE

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from SARIMA MAGAZINE.

RECIPES : PUFF PUFF (DEEP FRIED DOUGH)

RECIPE

3/4 cup of water

2 teaspoon active yeast

1 1/4 cup of all purpose flour

1/4 cup + 2 teaspoon of sugar

1/4 teaspoon of salt.

METHOD

Measure your yeast in a bowl, and add the teaspoon of sugar , mix with little water and allow to rest for 8-10minutes.

Pour the remaining dry ingredients in a bowl and keep aside.

After 10 minutes, add your remaining water into your dry ingredient and your yeast mix, turn together till well mixed , cover with a cloth or foil paper and keep in a warm place for 30-45minutes.

After 30/45 minutes, it must have doubled in size, mix it again together and its ready to fry.

Fry and enjoy your delicious puff puff with a choice drink.

Source: @cakesandchopsbysusan

Tuesday, 12 May 2020

CEO MOMENTS : A MOMENT WITH ONENGIYEOFORI CHINWE , THE BRAIN BEHIND GABY'S_CONCEPT

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Chinwe Onengiyeoforl. I am an accountant, a fashion designer, a makeup artist, wife and mother to the two most beautiful children in the world. Most importantly, I am a devoted Christian.

How did you start Gabys_Concept?

After I graduated, I got Married, got a job, and started a family. As one who is very eclectic I wanted to do more for myself and attain fulfillment. With my love for makeup, fashion and luxury items

I started up Gaby's Concept In 2017 then I sold basically Jewelries and other high-end luxury items. In 2018 I ventured into the beauty industry and birthed my own makeup brand. As my kids started growing up , I wanted them to be styled in certain designs but I couldn't get what I wanted from the tailors around me so I tried my hands on sewing in an amateur way. I started designing the kind of clothes I wanted for them with the help of videos from social media. People loved it and wanted me to produce same for their kids so I said to myself "hey I could add this to the Brand" and that was how our kiddies clothing line came up. In 2019 I then attended a prestigious fashion academy to gain professional knowledge on kids design and every other details on the fashion industry. That same year 2019 was a breakthrough for me as I officially launch Gaby's kiddies clothing line with top-notch senator piece for boys (Prince Collection) and Haut couture dresses for girls (Princess collection). we have made over 200 garments so far. I will say it's been pretty amazing how far we have come.

Impressive, can you kindly share with us some challenges you have encountered pioneering your brand?

There's no business without a challenge. so yes there are challenges as a fashion designer. for me the major challenge is accessibility to the right fabric needed for production as well as prompt delivery by the courier company to our clients outside the States/ country where our facility is located.

What motivates you as a fashion designer?

Fashion designing is all about creativity and having artistic mind. It is the dream of every designer to be the best in the world. What motivates me basically is the ability to make unique designs with good quality fabric such that I can be proud of and eventually make good sales and get more good recommendations.

Where do you see your brand in the next five years?

In the next five years I see Gaby's_concept becoming a household name. A brand to be reckoned with. I see more man power added to our team. I see all-round growth and expansion and Grace to achieve targets goals.

What's your advise for young designers out there?

My advise to young entrepreneurs is they should be patient and focused. Master their craft and keep being the best at what they do.

Where is your facility located ?

My facility is located at Alianz Arena Mall, (Shop 9)along NTA/Mbuoba Road, Port Harcourt.

What is leisure for you , away from designing ?

I love shopping, I love having a good family time with my kids. I enjoy travelling and visiting beautiful places around the world ,swimming , playing games such as Scrabble and Chess.

How do you balance the homefront and the demanding lifestyle of an enterpreneur?

Being an Entrepreneur is hard work. when you have to juggle balancing family and business , trust me you have to give it your best shot, to succeed. As a serial entrepreneur , showing up daily, putting my best in all I do, not allowing myself to be pressured but seeing both roles I have to play (in my business as well as my family) as blessing .

Also, acknowledging the fact that I cannot do all by myself, I tried to delegate the workload with capable personnel whom I can trust .

Having a dependable workforce has been the benchmark in achieving target goals and creating a balance both at the home front and as an enterpreneur.

Thanks alot for your time.

"...ONCE YOU MEET CHRIST, YOU CAN NEVER STAY THE SAME." JOY EDJEREN , SHARES HER EXPERIENCE ON A NEW LIFE IN CHRIST AWAY FROM THE MOVIE INDUSTRY.

Can we meet you?

My name is Joy Edjeren, I live in Texas USA and I'm originally from Nigeria and a citizen of United States of America. I have been residing in Houston Texas since I was 13 years old. I had an early start in the entertainment business through acting, singing and writing movies. I was known as JJ bunny. I had my personal production company called JJ bunny movies and I produced and directed several Nollywood movies before I had an encounter with the Lord in 2012. Since then I stayed out of the spot light until my recent move to evangelize.

It was such a remarkable transformation from a front liner in the movie industry to a life of relentless pursuit for God's kingdom. Can you tell us about it?

Well, once you meet Christ, you can never stay the same. After I encountered the truth and was set free by Christ, I now have a deep desire to expose the truth of Jesus to as many people as it is possible. It’s like when a person finds a hidden beautiful island and you don’t want to keep the place to yourself alone, you want the whole world to come in and enjoy the Island with you. So my pursuit is the desire to see people set free and be connected to the creator Himself.

How has the experience been? For you and those around you.

It started as a huge shock, when the Holy Spirit convicts you; He turns your world upside down with the truth. For instance, what you think is sexy becomes sinful, what you see as beauty becomes ugly, what you used to value becomes worthless and what others run after, you run away from. The bible says that as the Heavens are higher than the Earth so are the ways of God. His ways are truly not our ways and when you become a child of God, He imparts you with His nature and your ways will definitely be changed. The Bible declares that “if any man be in Christ he is a new creature, old things are passed away, behold all things become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Can you tell us more about your recently published book, The Birth and Death you of JJ Bunny?

The book is a very personal book that details my life in the entertainment business few months before my encounter with Christ. The story seems like a movie itself and the story entails not just life before encounter but the transitions and interactions that took place between me and The Lord while I was trying to make sense of my new reality and to stand as a Christian.

Is this your first publication?

Yes, my prayer is that more books will follow but with less personal accounts.

Are there tales of tremendous impact already?

I bless God because people expected the book to be a “thou shall not do this or that” but they were so surprised by its contents that people write me that they could not drop the book once they started reading it. The adventurous content keeps the reader so engaged that they can’t wait to read what would happen next and at the end of the book, most of my readers were so shocked on the information they found out that they write me and resolve that it would be hard to remain nonchalant about the secular entertainment industry after reading my book. So yes, God is really using the book to transform lives.

What's your philosophy of life and advice for aspiring story tellers around the world?

As a star actress, you are often praised and admired by those without spiritual understanding yet the spirit realm is what controls the physical realm therefore my life declaration is “who is in control of your life”? What spirit are you being lead by?

Young artist and story tellers need to be aware that there is no middle ground. You are either with God or with the devil, and if you think you can play both sides, you deceive only yourself. So it’s important for you to discover where you stand in Christ and live by His words so that when your life comes to an end, you will not be shocked that you are going to Hell fire. You see, the world can celebrate you as a star, place your face on magazine covers, present you as an important person and many people both young and old may want to be like you. However, such a person can be an enemy of God all along and spend eternity in Hellfire because they have been working for the devil all their life but blinded by the fact that they were being celebrated by the world.

Are there any new projects we should be looking forward to?

Well, many things had to be shutdown because of the corona virus pandemic and so I have no big project in the works right now, but evangelism messages and videos will continue until this pandemic pass by then I can begin to book different projects again.

I believe that God gives us kingdom responsibilities. What's the one thing you have resolved to do in pursuit of leading people to Christ? How have you set about achieving it?

I feel very drawn to the evangelism of young people especially those who are mesmerized by the secular entertainment industry. I realize that this group of people find it difficult to sit and watch a boring sermon so the Lord has given me the wisdom to make videos that are entertaining and engaging, videos that seem funny or silly or just crazy but all the while preaching and warning this group so that hopefully they can be converted and saved from the chains of darkness by the Holy Spirit.

What's the drive behind your passion?

May the Lord strengthen all true Christians around the world to arise and be fierce in snatching souls from the pit of hell through various means of evangelism. The kingdom of darkness is relentless and fierce in their hellish pursuits, so why should Christians sit back and watch souls being deceived into Hell? I was one of those souls being lead to the slaughter and thanks to the mercy of God and prayers of true born again Christians, the Lord saved me from such great destruction. It’s only fair that I work relentlessly to see that others can have the same opportunity that I had.

Where do you see your Ministry in the next five years?

Before I became a born again Christian, I could have easily answered this question with ambitious answers such as, I will have large Christian studio, large congregation etc but the truth is that I cannot tell where my ministry will be in the next 5 years because we walk by faith and not by sight, so wherever I am in the next 5 years, as long as I am in the Lord, then I am where I should be.

Thanks for your time.

FOUR STEPS TO ATTAINING SPIRITUAL BALANCE AS A TWENTY FIRST CENTURY GO-GETTER

So you have been immensely blessed with all that you have prayed for,; your career expectations have been manifested, this is what we seek as God's children; that our desires come to fruition. Congratulations!

We definitely do not intend to get you all gloomy for what should infact be such a pleasant ride , but we are bent on giving useful tips for attaining spiritual balance as a twenty-first-century go-getter.

Jesus went about doing good and as you know his disciples were hardly idle. Matthew was a Tax collector, remember. Paul who was an ardent preacher of the Gospel was a Lawyer. Idleness is hardly encouraged amongst the Christ like ; a combined reading of Hebrews 6 : 12 and 2 Timothy 5 : 13 shows hard work is encouraged and the negative effects of idleness is emphasized.

It is alot easier to get caught up in sinful pleasures being idle . Remember what the Bible says about an idle mind being devil's workshop ..... Let's

get practical, cast your mind back to one of the totally nasty activities you got caught up in sometime, can you recall it had alot to do with meaningless thoughts that stole in while you were idle?

Don't give the devil a chance in your life to wreck the countless privilege of Salvation. Find the least profitable thing to get your hands busy with through; talent knowledge or skill .

However, as terrible as idleness appears for us Christians, we must also note it is quite possible to get busy with legit activities (your career as a medical practitioner , running a profitable hairstyling business or becoming the musician you had once aspired) and yet have an unhealthy spiritual life.

Your spiritual life will most likely suffer a great deal despite being meaningfully engaged if you have not mastered spiritual balance and this piece is out to showcase tips on how to achieve balance as a twenty-first-century career or business person.

FOUR STEPS TO ATTAINING SPIRITUAL BALANCE

1. Observing quiet time

2. Honesty

3. Contentment

4. Moderation

1. OBSERVING QUIET TIME

We know how demanding work gets, proposals, deadlines, etc coupled with family life as a man or woman. it could get very easy to jump out of bed , head into the bathroom, skip breakfast which is an unhealthy pattern by the way and dash into your office/business space.

Little drops of water makes an ocean conducting the affairs of our lives without having some quiet time to seek our maker and know Him in spirit and truth is not a healthy Christian culture. It is imperative that we apportion time to most of our activities to help us observe our quiet time.

This can be easily done by having a schedule that gets most of your next day line up sorted the day before.

Have you ever noticed how productive days you communed with God first turned out?

Jesus understood the need for quiet time when He took some time out to pray , away from His disciples. Matthew 1:35 - 37

2. HONESTY

Honesty is a worthy virtue.

We are either employees or employers answerable to other person on whom our earnings are hinged . It is inevitable that sometimes unforeseen events surface disrupting plans, schedules, etc which are instrumental to our career or businesses.

What do we do at times such as this when a lie looks like the convenient thing to do.

Sometimes it appears we get into more trouble having done the right thing but a clear conscience before God and man is golden, Acts 24 : 16.

We should choose our Salvation over prosperity and trust God to come through for us.

3. CONTENTMENT

Contentment this is a very important trait as alot unholy acts are birthed from the absence of this virtue. When we are not content it breeds jealousy which results in gossip, nursing evil schemes against each other. It is best to stay content as as we seek the Lord's mercy for growth and progress. This is not to say you shouldn't reach for great heights in your career or business but unnecessary comparison with highfliers in your industry, colleagues etc will drain you and possibly get you caught up in the wrongs; stealing, lying, bearing false witness, etc

While we seek our growth we must endeavor to do things right, as we await the coming of our Lord. 1 Timothy 6 : 6

4. MODERATION

Philippians 4 : 5 emphasizes moderation. Showing up at your office or business place requires you turning up in formal and classy outfits. You did not know? Well , you have got to let your light shine you know but while you are at it , remember moderation is key.

It shouldn't develop into a fashion contest that gets you stealing and exemplify ing coveteousness to stay tops.

God's children must practice moderation. While it is important to socialize and stay abreast with useful facts in your work space , it should not lead you to engaging in idle talks.

May we receive grace to do the will of our Father even as we do exploits.

Merit Gogo-fyneface, Editor, Sarima Magazine

Become a contributor for Sarima Magazine by reaching out via sarimacity@gmail.com

STYLE FEATURE : OCTAVIA CLOTHINGS

Styling the urban woman is our delight at Octavia Clothings.

We are committed to serving bespoke designs that gets you the right atention wherever you go!

We are just a click away, visit our Instagram profile @octaviaclothings and get the excellent stitch you deserve.

Reach out to us via sarimacity@gmail.com for a feature.

THE QUEEN'S BUSINESS SERIES : HEAVEN'S GATE (EPISODE 1) BY MERIT GOGO-FYNEFACE

The dogs from the neighbouring flats barked incessantly Adaobi could barely sleep.

She wrapped her polka dot, off white silk robe, making way into the livingroom to turn off the TV as the noise filtered into her room.

"You are up? "

"Sister! Good morning sister"

"Yea"

"Why are you up so early? "

Amaka laughs and signals her to turn on the light.

"I just got off the phone with my boyfriend"

"Jesus, sister!"

She relaxes into the sofa and stretches her legs on the other end.

She looks even more beautiful than she was the last time Adaobi came around.

She had caged her grey hair beneath an extension from @kims_haven. She looked more relaxed, it was difficult to tell she was in her early fifties.

There was hardly anytime to catch up last night when Adaobi stopped by from the Polytechnic.

"What's with the stare?"she asked

"You said something about a hundred thousand naira when you called last week, what was that for"

"Yes Sister"

"Bya, this girl just call me Amaka leave all these titles"

"Ok sis.. Amaka"

The words felt heavy especially as Amaka was over ten years older.

"It's Laju"

"Laju.. okay, what about him?"

"You know he has been trying to get a job but it's just really difficult"

"I still don't get it.. "

"Okay, he needs some money to start up a business.. I'll pay back Amaka"

Amaka laughs uncontrollably and she gets a grip reallizing it was barely 3:00 am.

She gets off the chair, places the back of her palm on Adaobi's neck and moves to her forehead.

"Isi odi kwa gi nma? "

She asks this time, not smiling.

Adaobi sits still.

'Is it this same Laju that gets you whining half the time. I mean when he was working at what's that oil servicing firm what did he do for you?

She snaps her fingers, staring into oblivion but recalls nothing. Adaobi sits still unwilling to help her ignorance.

By the way you should shut your room when next you are having a confidential convo."

"We have plans Amaka, he needs to get something sorted and I'll pay back I promise"

"How? That's not even the problem. Come"

She pulls Adaobi along.

"Sit"

Adaobi feels uneasy in Amaka's bedroom. She perches her dark skinned behind on a part of the large bed.

She surveys the wall papers, Amaka had gotten them installed by @chauntells_home decor

Her eyes fall on the neon duvet from @kloikish_beddings.

She fixes her eyes now on the rack that holds over ten autogele made by @whitneys_autogele

"Jesus, sister!"

She rose now to feel the healing blisters on Amaka's body.

"He has been hitting you? "

Adaobi is furious, wearing a vengeful contenance that makes it difficult to tell she was born again.

"Tschew"

Amaka hisses, throws her robe over her full flat breast. She had nursed three.

Ifeanyi 15, Chelsea 8 and Solange 5.

She had traces of tears now, she wiped them off. Swallowed hard and pulled Adaobi to sir beside her.

"I don't want you to end up like me"

She fills Adaobi in on how she had stood by her husband, did everything to help him , he had married her and turned into a parasite"

"See these marks, whenever I complain about how he spends the money I make, I end up like this"

Adaobi, I've learnt. I don't bother him anymore. It's painful that he spends my money on women, everything in this house is your sisters sweat Adaobi. I Struggled to see myself through school. I'm here now, a Medical Doctor, working daily for an adult! A man! "

She places her hands over Amaka's shoulders as Amaka cries silently.

"But he thinks I'm foolish, leaves me in this house to the world knows where. At least I have someone in my life now too

"Amaka, thats not the way."

"I see"

"Laju is a good man it's just.. "

"Look Adaobi, I need you to be sure!

Don't tell me all the nice things about this Laju guy, be sure he makes you happy and puts you first just the way you do. I'm your sister and I'll tell you what those your married friends won't say, it's not all so rosy. No one wants to break the ice so they don't look bad or possibly offend you but trust me you don't want to end up like me.

You support a man who is into you as much as you are.

A wife is a help meet, if you start like this hmmm Adaobi...

She stops. Plugs in her headset and forces a smile as she takes Greg's video call.

Adaobi attempts to leave the room, she signals her to hold on. She walks around the bedroom now, she spots a photograph of uncle Ajibola on the wal in his Doctorate attire, she wonders how he could be such a beast. Above the gold framed photo is a pucture of Amaka and Uncle Ajibola in their wedding attire in a different pose from the one in the living room.

Amaka hangs up, looking more cheerful now.

"But sister"

Amaka's stare forces her to address her casually.

"Amaka, having an affair doesn't resolve it"

"Professor of love, what does? I thought so too," she said,seeing Adaobi speechless.

"We could find another way"

"Adaobi nature abhors a vaccum. Who wants to stay at home on Vals day just like that.

She opens her wardrobe scouting for clothes. She throws Adaobi a green midi gown.

"That should size you. Billie and Bloosom "

She mentions in a tone that says Adaobi should know the designe .

A car horn gets Amaka behind the curtains. Adaobi follows behind her.

"Haba Amaka you didn't tell me you guys got a Range:"

""Which guys? I got that car from @cars45 Adaobi. See as e use one hand dey drive like who get motto. This man annoys me"

Amaka draws the blue voile curtains and looks all moody.

"He is still your husband" Adaobi said holding her now.

"Help meet, Understanding, Soulmate, Bresd winner abi is that one not in your Bible? Affection fix the rest abeg. Ajibola? Zero"

"It's okay Amaka, it will be fine:"

"Now it isn't. Si e ba puo I have a date girl!

"Okay see, lets go shopping. Since you can't sit at home on Vals day."

"You know I don't like flimsy clothes, where are you taking me? "

"YOLS AND J'S CITY TOUR, they've got really nice clothes and fabrics. I was there yesterday. we could do movies afterwards"

"Okay, sounds fun. I think I know that page @yolsandjs abi? "

"Yea"

Ajibola slams the car door shut.

"I'll go get dressed, Adaobi says as she leaves the room.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Written By Merit Gogo-fyneface

TO GET YOUR BRAND FEATURED IN THE QUEEN'S BUSINESS SERIES, DO REACH OUT VIA sarimacity@gmail.com

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Friday, 1 May 2020

THE CRIMSONED ONE, KAINE ROBIE TELLS OF HIS BIBLICALLY INSPIRED STORY TELLING OUTFIT, CRIMSON

Who is Kaine Robbie?

I am the founder of Crimson, a multifaceted media, entertainment and educational organization which blesses lives, ignites imaginations and inspires possibilities via our collection of short stories, comics, animations and films.

His love for kids has seen him begin his creation of short stories for kids such as Little Willy and The Wolf, Tumini;The Awakening, The Warrior Princess and lots more.

I am also a content creator and freelance Copywriter and when I am writing, you can find me watching cartoons.

Your Organization, Crimson is a reputable story telling outfit. How did it start? What was the motivation?

Never in my wildest dreams did I see myself doing anything related to what crimson does. I didn’t choose crimson, it chose me. I didn’t decide that I want to create an organization which will tell stories that will bless individual and enable them experience encounters of the God-kind. I didn’t even know how to write a story, but consistent sitting under the teachings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ at Mouldbreak Institute of Change, allowed the river which is crimson, flow freely from my belly.

Each day since its birthing has been an adventure, one where I simply follow the trails and promptings of Abba as he builds Crimson through me.

Since its birthing I have been motivated by the testimonies of people who have been blessed by reading the stories. If one person can experience healing while reading a crimson story, if one person can find answers to life’s questions while reading a crimson story, then this is enough motivation for me to keep writing these stories which will keep blessing lives for a life time!

How long has this outfit been in existence and where do you see your organization in the next 5 years?

Crimson has been in existence for two years now, actually crimson will be three years this may, 2020.I In the next five years, I see crimson at the point where we are a household name in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria and several other countries of the world.

When people think of wholesome, quality and spirit lifting soul food, crimson is top of mind.

When they need cartoons and comics for their kids or for adults who indulge in this, crimson is top of mind!. When people need an organization that will change the face of their educational and entertainment sector, crimson will be top of mind.B Basically we are talking about nation and continent wide domination in the entertainment and educational sector in the next five years.

Away from running Crimson, What more do you do?

Well, for now, I work with an organization whose reading program for kids is innovative, fun and designed to ignite their passion for reading. H

How has the Crimson brand impacted lives? What are your challenges so far running your story telling brand?

I can boldly say that our ever increasing audience base love our stories. So far there is a high demand for more crimson stories from our audience in and outside Nigeria. Also, one of the desires that has been consistent in our audience is to see the animations of Crimson stories and we will make this desire come to pass for them, this year, maybe… just maybe.

So far, not having a website has hindered our reach to a wider number of people and we hope to get one soon. A facility of our own outfitted with all the necessary equipment’s will also greatly improve the quality of our content and the number of stories put out per month.

What's your philosophy of life and advice for aspiring story tellers around the world?

My reality is what God's word says, not what I see happening around me. If there is anything I need to see, I create it by simply speaking in line with what Abba has said and it will come to pass. That which I say, I always handle and this is possible because Christ died for me and shed his blood which is always speaking positive things for me. This is my philosophy of life.

My advice for aspiring storytellers around the world is this; be you, there is only one you and you are simply amazing. Be you, stay true to you, and write from your heart!

Are there any projects we should be looking forward to from your organization?

As a matter of fact, yes! You can look forward to the release of the hard and soft copies of Crimson Stories first mint edition comic titled LITTLE WILLY AND THE WOLF!

Thanks for your time.

TEN LESSONS FROM NEHEMIAH APPLICABLE IN OUR DAILY LIVING.

Nehemiah was the son of Hakaliah , a great man of God who was also the King's Cup bearer.

News came to him that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down and its gates burnt with fire. Nehemiah 1 : 3

This altered his countenance such that King, Artaxerxes noticed.

The book of Nehemiah precisely Chapters 1 and 2 focuses on rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.

I'll like to suggest you read through with the thoughts of the issues that direly need to be fixed or salvaged from wreck as there are so many lessons to learn from Nehemiah which are absolutely applicable to daily living in our time.

TEN LESSONS FROM NEHEMIAH

1. All men go through travails.

You shouldn't beat yourself ugly because there is a situation that seems alot beyond your physical, emotional, financial or spiritual strength.

Even Nehemiah, a great man of God had a fair share of troubles.

He was so sad that his countenance pierced the heart of the King, Artaxerxes who sought to know why Nehemiah was downcast.

Nehemiah 2:2

2. Brace up , utilize every great opportunity in spite of fear.

When the King sought the reason for Nehemia's countenance and concluded it was nothing but sadness of heart, he asked Nehemiah what he could do to ease his burden

Knowing the high authority of the King, it is not strange that Nehemiah was afraid to bare his worry before the King but in spite of fear, Nehemiah braced up, utilizing the opportunity to make known his request.

Nehemiah 2: 2-3

3. God can place the burden of your heart before Kings and men of authority as He did for Nehemia when the King asked, "What is it you want?"

Nehemiah 2 : 4

4. Pray without ceasing, even in the midst of bliss.

Even when it was glaring Nehemiah had found favour in the sight of the King, it wasn't a time to relax, instead he prayed more before making his request known to the King. That is humility, knowing that grace speaks and we need God not just in bad times but in the midst of bliss as well. Nehemiah 2 : 4

5. Grace speaks and we must acknowledge that as Nehemiah did.When his request to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem was granted coupled with a few more to ease the process, we see Nehemiah saying "because the gracious hand of God was upon me,he granted my requests"

It is important to understand that we achieve not by our strength or strong networks but by grace!

Nehemiah 2: 8

6. We all have enemies whom we do not have to offend to earn their hate. Nehemiah had a fair share.

What did the gates of Jerusalem or it's walls do to Sanballat and Tobiah that gave them no choice but get totally engulfed with bile? Why were they so angry someone had come to seek the welfare of the people of Israel?

See why people just hate on you for your little victories? No, you do not have to offend them. The prospect of progress alone suffices.

Nehemiah 2 : 10

7. From lesson six, it's obvious we must exercise caution in our daily living just like Nehemiah . When he embarked on his journey, he told no one what God had laid in his heart to do.

We must plan and conquer silently and men will eventually give glory to God when He perfects His desires for us. Do not be so eager to share your visions. Nehemiah wasn't

Nehemiah 2: 12

8. Do not undermine evaluation when things are broken and you need to rebuild.

You must look into the roots and see why things went wrong, from different realistic angles; analyze possible solutions and procedures just like Nehemiah who set out at night to examine the broken walls in order to rebuild perfectly.

Nehemiah 2 : 13

9. Enemies never stop even when you take off.

When Nehemiah began building the walls of Jerusalem, Sanballat and Tobiah who had talked him down resurfaced with more mockery. Infact I'll call it strategic mockery. "What is this you are doing?" they asked, hoping Nehemiah' will be so carried away as to let them in on his modus operandi. Totally laughable, the Nehemiah we know? That's a No!

Nehemiah 2: 19

10. Nehemiah's attitude towards hate and mockery was something worthy of emulation. He didn't talk back at them but reaffirmed his faith in God without giving out the details of his well thought out works in response.

He said, "the God of Heaven will give us success"

Nehemiah 2 : 20

May we all see remarkable results as we apply these lessons in our daily living.

Merit Gogo-fyneface, Editor , Sarima Magazine.

Would you like to be one of our contributors ,providing valuable content to our readers?

It's easy. Write us via sarimacity@gmail.com

STYLE FEATURE : ILABINBA FASHION HOUSE

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THE QUEEN'S BUSINESS SERIES : FREETOWN (FINAL EPISODE)

"I like you." The words proceeded with wit and audacity. The kind of audacity coated with influence. Good a thing the split unit wheezed noisily in the cozy office at Trans Amadi.

All around the office, everyone poured over documents on laptops to ensure their jobs were perfect. This is the kind of hypocrisy that is awakened when the executive arm would be visiting one of the contracted buildings for commissioning.

Dr. Jamabo didn't need this stretch of work to keep him close to Soye daily to know he loved her. Lust wears no boundaries else he would not play blind to the sterling silver ring telling of a lifetime bond. Lust preys on every opportunity that heralds, just like the one he had now.

He knows she is an accountant at Alfa Prime and was there to make a financial help meet for her husband. It's just so easy to tell she looked well put together every week enough to catch his attention, enough to make him voice it yet the financial strain back home left maps of unrest: always unnecessarily panicked with wrinkled cheek. He is 56 and married to the vainest woman in the world. He knew less than a quarter of his weekly expenses will radiate this 34-year old mother of four.

"Sir, I was saying this won’t fly," she reiterates as she noticed his eyes glued on the ego top by Froc Avenue she had on.

"Of course," he pretended to be fully concentrated on the reports, “and the logo?” he asked as he took another look at her again.

“I’ll have Jimmyfixdesigns sort it out.”

“Okay... it’s a wrap then.”

It was a regular Wednesday and they had been on the presentation all afternoon and at the close of work, Soye had gone to pick her kids from school. On their way home, she had decided to take them on a little outing. They were at the Pleasure Park for about ten minutes when Oyinkansola walked past with a dark-skinned lady. She couldn't have been more than four feet without the burgundy stilettos she had on. It was a Viviene Westwood. She had drooled over it while shopping on Jankaramall.com.

"Deceitful man," she cursed him. "Lets go home," she said to the kids, half dragging, half pulling them along.

"But we only just got here." She turned to face her younger twin and he kept mute reading her familiar daring countenance. He looked more like his father.

She cried her eyes out after she had tucked the kids in. She had rushed to confront him earlier in the day when she heard a knock at the door only to find the power agents requesting her bills. They were disconnected from power supply after confirming that the bills were unpaid. She was mad. She had given Sola some money for the electricity bill and he had obviously squandered it.

“There is power supply in the neighbourhood,” Sola said as he got into the bedroom.

“We have been disconnected.”

“Oh,” he rolled his eyes having figured out why.

"8:45," she voiced, facing Sola whose silhouette further darkened the room.

He threw the car keys towards the mini cupboard but it fell on the cream coloured tiles. He didn't say a word. The wardrobe squeaked as he opened it to hang the shirt he had purchased from Woji nu Nke. He shopped most of his outfits lately. He picked the solar lamp, totally ignoring her.

"Where have you been?"

"Out."

“It's 8:45.”

"So what?"

“I was at the park today... with the kids.”

He was a bit uncomfortable but he acted unperturbed and went ahead to take off his black trousers. He made for the sitting room.

“I saw you walking around with a lady again.”

"Soye, what's all this? I'm a man and I have to make meaningful business relationships."

“That looked too close for comfort but when did meaningful business partners begin to go half nude flirting with other people’s husbands?”

“It's not a good time for your madness.”

He calls me mad! “You don't know how hard I work to take care of us and you still disrespect me by frolicking with other women, and you think I'm mad?”

He slams the door heading to the sitting room; she opens it running behind him ready to ease off her burden with a feast of words.

“So you have to rub it in my face.”

“I regret ever knowing you. All you've done is bring me bad luck. There are much more beautiful women I'll rather be with yet I'm stuck here with a bitter oyibo pepper.”

She grew cold as the words hit her. He didn't care. He went on but she wasn't listening. He had given her the worst and nothing else mattered. She knotted her robe and walked back into the bedroom.

In spite of the bitterness she had felt, she carried on the following day and had swept all his hurtful words under the carpet. In all her efforts at moving on, he projected an attitude of a demigod waiting to be appeased; monosyllabic responses, straight-faced and totally fascinated with whoever he had been chatting with. She couldn't question and she had resolved not to.

Walking through the door, she picked up the throw pillows gotten at Jazzmakinteriors during a giveaway. She locked the doors and took off her shoes at the entrance. She had decided to pick a few things after work especially as the kids were having dance lessons. Staring at Sola and his supposed business partner necking on the couch as she got into the living room, she felt hate and pain too deep for words. It took her dropping her handbags on the floor to disengage them from their stupidity.

"You were supposed to be at work, it's Thursday." He, said as he got up, grabbed his phone with the girl stalking him intently, unashamed.

Soye headed to the bedroom, pushed the wardrobe open and changed into a more casual dress. She altered her nude coloured lips to a red lip stain generously spread, took a less intentional look at them cuddling on the couch again as she walked to the door. She got out and slammed the door shut.

"Are you free?”

“Yea, why?”

She ends the call, picked a cab and made for the Polo Club. She knew he would be there; he had pestered her about witnessing the city tournament with him on several occasions but she had turned him down.

He looked more handsome than she had thought, sitting idly watching nothing keenly. She stopped for a moment, trying to trap her vengeful emotions so as to get hold of herself. She wanted to feel better so she tried to hold back but the scene she just witnessed replayed, too vivid and in all shades demoralizing.

"Sola deserves this foolishness," she said to herself as she approached him and didn’t care if he was married.

“What are you doing here?” he asked looking more excited than anxious.

“Free town.”

‘’What does that even mean?”

“Lets say it’s a page in life where you do things that make you happy,” she said as she took a sit beside him. It became their usual place and they didn't even get bored.

She had stopped caring. She had learnt not to wait up for him or even care. They lived like strangers feeling more at peace with the distance than the excess effort on her end to sustain a dead chemistry.

“I think you are the most beautiful woman I … ”

“I bet you have said that before.”

“No really.”

“Well, thanks.”

They laughed caring less of what might happen if they held each other’s gaze longer than usual. Dr. Jamabo reached for her hands. They were cold and soft with a few brown spots on her very light skin. It was just the same, the warmth brought comfort. He had never seen her differently, she even had a more amazing personality than he could fathom. The gaps closed between them gradually. They neither cared about their environment nor the sound of the children running around. Their lips locked. At one breath, she felt even closer to being even but on the other, she assured herself that she wasn't so evil after all.

"I should go home."

“Let me drop you off.

“Naa, I’ll find my way.”

“Ada George,” she said, negotiating with a cabman.

“I no too know that side.”

“Just across that recently commissioned building.”

“Madam, that one no be how you go take describe place na. Commissioned building plenty for we state na.”

“No worry, drive I go show you.”

She is a bag of mixed emotions and this man is just engulfed in.... by Ace the Rapper streamed out of the stareo. She nodded to the rhythm then stopped as she realized she was undeserving of such peace. She had just kissed Jamabo and if she wasn't mistaken she was in love with him. He gave her solace and he had said she was beautiful. She couldn't imagine how that would sound if it came from Sola. As the car sped past the highway, she yearned to do things better.

THE END.

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BOOK REVIEW : AFFIONG ENEOBONG'S AFTER THE STORM

Wondering what to read at a time like this, when the world is almost at a halt and free time isn't such a luxury anymore, Affiong Eneobong's After the Storm is the book to get locked down with.

After the Storm is a true story based on love, courage and hope. It tells the story of love and

life gone sour and the challenges of filial loyalty and responsibility. The book aims to address

issues which serve as a tool for activism towards spurring principal actors, families and the

society to act swiftly to the increasing spate of discrimination, dejection and disregard for

persons with special needs by advocacy, affirmation and affection.