Connect with us

Fashion/Lifestyle

GLAMOUR AND SALES WHEN MINA LADI OPENED LEKKI SHOP

Published

on

By Ifeoma Ikem

It was a roll call of the literati and cognoscenti, and of the glitterati and paparazzi, entrepreneurs and politicians when Mina Ladi Luxury Enterprise, trading as Asooke by Mina Ladi, unveiled its luxury fashion brand in Lekki, Lagos recently.

While welcoming guests to the epochal event, Lagos polymath and Chairman of the firm, Tunji Suleiman, revealed that Mina Ladi is the brainchild of Hajia Amina Ladidi Suleiman who is the Creative Director of the haute couture label. And that he helped birth it, infused quality control and assurance, and promoted the brand. According to him, “My wife has had a lifelong interest in looking elegant. Right from childhood, she had liked to dress up and be gorgeous.

Whenever her parents got clothes for them kids, she would tinker with hers, attaching a bow here and stitching a pleat there. And she would otherwise tweak such that the garment would be altered when she was done. Later, she started drafting her own patterns and designing outfits and accessories for family and friends for free or next to no cost.”

Continuing, he said, “As we all know, it takes a fashion-conscious man to spot a fashionable woman. Some people have called me a dresser in my own right. So it was not abnormal for me to see the talent and to support the dream and help turn it to reality, especially as I was already an entrepreneur of many years standing, which proved to be an advantage. So we developed the model in-house and conceptualized the process early on. The realization took vision, capacity and resilience. So you can take it from me when I say that this shop is a testament to my wife’s creativity, commitment, diligence and passion, and to teamwork.”

Going on memory lane, Suleiman recollected, “Before we started out, we had agreed she would go to business school. So we had her enrolled in Richland College in Dallas, Texas, USA where she completed a certificate course in entrepreneural and business management. She also attended fashion school and master classes in Nigeria. Her training at an atelier in Dubai where she learned tambour beading and other embroidry techniques has influenced our unique designs.”

“We registered Mina Ladi Luxury Enterprise in 2018 and started production from our home in Lekki; trading on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and on the web at www.minaladiluxury.com.”

“We have since been draping the wardrobes of discerning clients that can afford our garments in Nigeria, in Lagos, South-East and South-South, and in Abuja and the North, leveraging on my wife’s northern connection. And we have patrons in USA, Canada, and Europe. We have also dressed Indian couples for weddings abroad.”, Suleiman recounted.

“As everything celestial must appear or be manifested in the terrestrial for man to appreciate, it was only a matter of time before we came down to earth from cyberspace to unveil this outlet of Asooke by Mina Ladi in the Center of Excellence”, he submitted.

“Now, clients who prefer to transact business on terra firma can shop our ready-to-wear and book appointments for bespoke and fittings in Suite 17, Aaron’s Mall, Lekki 1”, the Mina Ladi Chairman added.

Before the unveiling proper, the Lekki big boy shared the brand’s vision and roadmap, saying, “Our ultimate goal is to take Mina Ladi closer to our clients everywhere and to consistently craft and deliver ready-to-wear and bespoke fashion masterpieces. In the near-term, we will focus on sustainable growth and open more stores as we go along, on the Mainland and beyond”.

Nasir Illias, representing the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN), assisted by Mrs. Ronke Edun, a leading fashion designer and MD/CEO of Bolenny Couture in Otta, Ogun State cut the ribbon to open the black- and gold-themed shop, the interior and lighting of which was designed and executed by Mr. Suleiman (who is an engineer) and admired by the guests, clients, associates, and family and friends present.

In her remarks, the Computer Scientist-turned fashion designer and Director of Creatives and Production, Hajia Suleiman, elaborated on the fabrics, patterns and computer-aided techniques used in crafting some of the unique designs on display. “Our forte is the elaborate and bespoke African wear for weddings, namings, anniversaries, memorials, and other ceremonies where the celebrant or guest desires to ‘shanawole’ and to stand out. We create luxury high fashion and make it affordable.”

She added, “We mostly utilize the Asooke weave and other local fabrics, but add foreign laces, lycra, organza and velvet. We combine colors and panels with our patterns and finish in bead and/or stone work. We also accessorize and embellish with pearls and/or petals as needed for the particular client to handcraft unique, dazzling attires; complimented by our special veils and trademark luxury hand fans without which the outfit is not complete especially for the ‘lolos’, ‘oloris’ and ‘sarauniyas’.

“Our ready-to-wear line of t-shirts, kimonos, tunics, capes, and turbans is doing well, just like the bespoke ”, the Creative Director disclosed.

The shopping session was a success. The bestsellers were the unisex Blinged Patriot T-Shirt which sold out, the turbans and turbanators for ladies and the unique tunic and cap for men – dubbed ‘TJ’s Gbarie & Gobi’ that combined the ‘alari’ Asooke fabric, Yoruba and Ghanaian styling and Hausa embroidery into an iconic garment design popularized and modeled by Mr. Suleiman – which recorded several bespoke orders.

Dignitaries that graced the event and shopped included Engr. Ayoade Lawal, an APC aspirant for the last gubernatorial election in Osun State; Mr. Ted Kpone-Tonwe, Country Manager of Red Transport, an international logistics firm; and Mrs Jennifer Ogbaide, CEO of ZIWA’s Place, a frontline interior designer in Lekki.

Others included Mrs. Zainab Okunola, CEO of Khalten Scents from Port Harcourt; Builder and Estate Developer, Mr Olaku Asupoto; and Mrs Olayinka Abiola, widow of the late MKO Abiola who prayed for business profitability and brand success for the fashion label.

The media was adequately represented with the attendance of Mr. Olawale Abideen, President of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) who led an array of journalists to the event and compered the programme. Also present were fashion photographer, James Atuegbu, reporters and cameramen from City People, Spice TV and a host of other media houses.

Freebie ‘Fascinators’ were gifted to guests for their girls who were all excited as they happily adorned the colorful hair pieces.

In closing, Hajia Amina Suleiman thanked all present for making time out of their busy schedules and in spite of the Coronavirus scare to witness the occasion. She also prayed for the safe return of all guests to their respective destinations.

It was altogether a fun-filled day with plenty to eat, drink and to take away amid pulsating music that lasted till late into the evening.

Fashion/Lifestyle

Introducing “Atupaglowco” : Where Fragrance Meets Feeling; The Story of Our Beginning

Published

on

Introducing “Atupaglowco”: Where Fragrance Meets Feeling; The Story of Our Beginning

 

Every great journey begins with a sense of anticipation. For us, it began with a simple belief that a space should do more than exist, it should speak comfort and glow.

 

In a world filled with noise, stress, and endless motion, we realized something powerful. Fragrance can transform not just rooms, but moods. A familiar scent can calm anxiety. A warm aroma can turn a house into a home. A gentle glow can bring peace after a long day. This realization gave birth to “Atupaglowco.”

 

Atupaglowco was not created to sell diffusers, room sprays, or candles. It was created to create experiences. To create moments. To create atmospheres where people can breathe, reflect, and feel whole again.

 

The name itself represents more than a brand. It represents warmth. It represents light. It represents presence. We remember the early days, the planning, the testing of scents, the moments of doubt, and the moments of excitement. Each candle poured was a step of faith. Each fragrance blended was a piece of our vision coming to life. We weren’t just building products; we were building something meaningful.

 

Our diffusers were designed to quietly fill spaces with elegance.

Our room sprays were crafted to instantly refresh and revive environments. Our candles were made to bring calm, beauty, and a soft glow into everyday life.

 

Atupaglowco was born from passion, patience, and purpose. This launch is not just the start of a business. It is the start of a movement to help people create spaces they love. Spaces that inspire rest. Spaces that inspire joy. Spaces that glow.

 

We believe fragrance is personal. We believe glow is emotional. We believe every space deserves both.

 

Today, we proudly introduce Atupaglowco to the world.

 

This is only the beginning.

Continue Reading

Fashion/Lifestyle

Mrs Township Finalist 2026 Leads Community Action to Support Disadvantaged Learners

Published

on

Mrs Township Finalist 2026 Leads Community Action to Support Disadvantaged Learners

Mrs Township Finalist 2026 Leads Community Action to Support Disadvantaged Learners

 

 

As the 2026 academic year begins, hope and compassion are taking root at Theresapark Primary School, thanks to the remarkable leadership of Mrs Nkone Maringa, a respected community member and Mrs Township South Africa Finalist 2026.

In a powerful demonstration of grassroots leadership and social responsibility, Mrs Maringa, in partnership with Theresapark Sasol Garage, spearheaded a community clean-up of the school’s garden area. The initiative was carried out in preparation for the school’s feeding scheme garden, which will support disadvantaged children with fresh, nutritious produce throughout the school year.

 

 

Planting Seeds of Change

 

 

The garden project goes beyond beautifying the school environment. It is designed to become a sustainable source of food for learners who rely on the school feeding programme as a vital lifeline. By preparing the land ahead of the school reopening, Mrs Maringa and her partners ensured that planting can begin immediately, setting the tone for a productive and caring 2026.

“This project is about dignity, nutrition, and giving our children a healthy start to the year,” the initiative reflects—aligning perfectly with Mrs Maringa’s long-standing commitment to community upliftment.

 

 

A Record of Community Impact

 

Mrs Nkone Maringa’s involvement at Theresapark Primary School is one of several impactful projects she has undertaken in her community. Known for her hands-on approach, she consistently mobilizes local businesses, volunteers, and stakeholders to address real needs—especially those affecting children, women, and vulnerable groups.

 

Her work embodies the core values of the Mrs Township South Africa platform: leadership, service, empowerment, and positive social change. As a finalist for the 2026 title, Mrs Maringa continues to prove that true leadership is measured not by titles alone, but by tangible impact on the ground.

Corporate–Community Partnership in Action

The collaboration with Theresapark Sasol Garage highlights the power of partnerships between local businesses and community leaders. Their support played a crucial role in making the clean-up initiative successful, demonstrating how corporate social responsibility can directly transform lives at a grassroots level.

 

 

 

Looking Ahead

 

With the garden now prepared, Theresapark Primary School is set to launch its feeding scheme garden as learners return for the new academic year. The project stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and collective effort.

 

As Mrs Nkone Maringa continues her journey as a Mrs Township South Africa Finalist 2026, her work at Theresapark Primary School serves as a shining example of how passion, partnership, and purpose can create lasting change—one garden, one child, and one community at a time.

Mrs Township Finalist 2026 Leads Community Action to Support Disadvantaged Learners

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

Beauty with Responsibility: Lindie Motswaeng’s Vision as Miss Classic Queen International

Published

on

Living Authentically, Leading with Purpose: Lindie Motswaeng

 

Lindie Motswaeng is a 28-year-old Mathematics and Economics graduate from one of Africa’s leading institutions, the University of Botswana. She is currently completing an Executive Secretary (Finance) qualification at Boston City Campus in Pretoria. A woman of depth and versatility, Lindie enjoys cooking, travelling, exploring new ideas, spending time with family, and commanding the stage. Outspoken, open-minded, and deeply curious, she lives by a simple yet powerful motto: to live life on her own terms, unconfined by limitations.

As an aspiring economist, Lindie is passionate about women’s economic empowerment, particularly for women facing abuse, and about raising awareness around mental health—an often-silenced issue in many communities. She envisions a future where individuals are free to thrive beyond cycles of abuse and mental health challenges. Recently crowned Miss Classic Queen International, she shares her journey, values, and vision for her reign.

Congratulations on your crowning. How does it feel to emerge as the new Miss Classic Queen International?

It honestly feels surreal. It is always amazing when your hard work and dedication are finally recognised. I truly believe this organisation is going to help me make a meaningful impact during my year of reign.

 

Can you take us back to the moment your name was announced as the winner? What went through your mind?

I was quite blank at first—I simply could not believe it in that moment. Shortly after, it turned into overwhelming joy, especially seeing people, including the other ladies, cheering me on. It was such a beautiful and affirming moment.

 

What does the title Miss Classic Queen International represent to you personally and culturally?

For me, it is about being an inspiration in my own authentic way. It is important to seek your own unique path. We are all different for a reason, and Classic Queen International embraces that diversity. More importantly, it highlights the beauty in our differences and uses them to open doors and create opportunities.

How has your journey in the pageant world shaped the woman you are today?

My pageant journey has taught me to appreciate my abilities and to use them responsibly to create change in my community. This is a role I believe every human being has. Most importantly, it has taught me the value of sisterhood. In every competition, you meet women from different walks of life who always have something to teach you. Although it is a competition, it is vital to remember that there is life after it. Someone you meet may become a destiny helper or a lifelong sister.

 

Beyond beauty and poise, what core values do you believe this crown stands for?

As beautiful as the crown is, it symbolises duty. With such a platform, it becomes possible to make an impact on a much larger scale. It is also important to remember that you do not always need a crown or title to do good or to champion a cause close to your heart. When you genuinely have a heart for people and a willingness to be a voice for others, the responsibilities of the crown do not feel heavy.

 

Many young women look up to you already. What message do you hope to pass on to girls who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

The journey is never easy. There will be moments of doubt and discouragement, but it is important to remember why you started. Having a teachable spirit is also key—you can learn incredible things when you are surrounded by different personalities. Lastly, comparison can be tempting in competitions, but it is important to focus on your strengths and work on your weaknesses. Authenticity is essential; real growth cannot happen if you are constantly pretending to be someone else.

 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the competition, and how did you overcome them?

I became ill on the second day, which is not ideal when activities require high energy and full dedication. Fortunately, I was part of an organisation that truly cares about its contestants. They ensured I received proper medical care and were very understanding. Maintaining a positive mindset also helped, because everything starts in the mind.

 

Pageantry today goes beyond glamour. What social cause or humanitarian project are you most passionate about championing during your reign?

I plan to continue my Art for Awareness project, which I started in 2021. The project uses art as a medium of communication and a form of release for people facing mental health challenges. In our culture, people are often silenced when they try to speak about their struggles, which causes them to withdraw. Art is universal and not age-specific, making it a powerful tool for expression.

How do you plan to use your platform as Miss Classic Queen International to create meaningful global impact?

I hope to expand my cause to other parts of Africa. This brand represents the continent, and with that comes the opportunity to partner with other organisations for wider reach and influence.

 

In your view, how can pageantry contribute to empowering women and promoting positive change in society?

We sometimes become too fixated on popularity and physical beauty, losing sight of what pageantry is meant to achieve. Beauty goes beyond the physical and is subjective. Women should be allowed to represent themselves authentically, without a single definition of beauty. We should also focus on developing their attributes, as these ultimately benefit society. A pageant queen has a voice and a platform, which requires humility, courage, and empathy.

 

Who or what inspired you most on your journey?

The love and support from my family, friends, and my country carried me throughout this journey. It truly takes a village. I was intentional when I started this path, knowing there would be challenges. When you set your mind and heart on something you are deeply passionate about, you will achieve it.

 

How do you balance confidence and humility while carrying such a prestigious international title?

I was raised with the principle of Botho, a core value in my country that embraces kindness, dignity, respect, and humility. When I stand on stage, I understand that I represent not only myself, but also my family and my nation. My character must reflect that. While humility is important, I should never shrink myself. As Nelson Mandela said, playing small does not serve the world.

What role do culture, elegance, and tradition play in the Classic Queen brand?

African culture plays a vital role in shaping character. This platform celebrates Africanism by allowing women from different African countries to showcase their cultures and talents on a continental stage. It fosters cultural exchange, promotes unity, and deepens understanding. Embracing our diversity as Africans allows us to see beauty instead of division. I learned so much from the other ladies—it was inspiring to see glamour fused with Africanism.

What should the public expect from you during your reign as Miss Classic Queen International?

I hope we can work together in championing this cause, because collaboration is essential. While I hold the title, greater impact can be achieved when we unite. I am grateful to be part of an organisation that supports and guides me throughout my reign to ensure we create positive change.

Finally, where do you see yourself after your reign, and how do you hope to be remembered?

I hope to be remembered as proof that anything is possible when you set your mind to it. I want to leave a legacy that inspires the next queen to do even more with the platform. Ultimately, I hope to help build a strong and enduring Classic Queen International family that extends beyond my reign.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending