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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

OKE MADUEWESI On 15 Years of Zaron and Building a Legacy

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

CONTENT

EDITOR’S NOTE Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

13 FITNESS

have always admired businesses that grow beyond selling products to become part of people’s everyday lives. Zaron’s 15-year journey is a story I find particularly inspiring because it reflects what is possible when an African brand understands its audience, remains resilient, and dares to compete on the global stage. Its anniversary is worth celebrating. At the centre of this story is Oke Maduewesi, whose journey from banking to entrepreneurship is a reminder that meaningful businesses often begin with a personal conviction. After building a successful banking career and earning an MBA from the University of Leeds, she followed her ambition to create Zaron, a beauty company designed with African women in mind. In our conversation, Maduewesi reflects on building trust in African-made beauty products, staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry, and the lessons 15 years of entrepreneurship have taught her. Read Oke Maduewesi’s story on pages 8 to 10. Modern dating has blurred the lines between connection and commitment, creating relationships that feel intimate but remain undefined. Situationships may seem exciting at first, but uncertainty can become emotionally exhausting. Our relationship page in this week’s issue explores why these connections can be difficult to leave, even when there was never an official relationship. See page 17 for this eye-opener.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

15 CULTURE Ways to Style 04-05 4Mesh Ballet Flats

FASHION

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

8-10 COVER

11 LUXURY

Untold Truths Of All the Women in the Room, Why Me? Oke Maduewesi On 15 Years of Zaron and Building a Legacy

SILK

He Had Been Going Somewhere

5 Tips to Fix Hair Breakage

BEAUTY

DÉCOR

Understanding Endometriosis Beyond “Painful Periods” The New Normal A Different Idea of Acceptable 5 Ways to Decorate Your Home With Brown

RELATIONSHIP

Situationships Explained Why Undefined Relationships Can Be So Difficult to Leave

18 BON APPÉTIT

The Homemade Café Coffee Shop Favourites You Can Make at Home

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

More Than Friends

Out of the Further

REVIEW

WHAT YOU SAID 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.

Onah

Issue No. 290 • August 30, 2026

BIODUN STEPHEN

Severe period pain should not always be dismissed as normal. For some women, persistent or disruptive symptoms may signal endometriosis, a chronic condition that can affect daily life, emotional well-being and reproductive health. This week’s health page (page 14) explores the signs women should recognise and why listening to their bodies matters.

14 HEALTH

Common Mistakes People Make During Glute Training

On Life and Filmmaking

INSTAGRAM

@wilson_the10

@onahluciaa +2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind - Contributing Writer Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

@tmsbespoke.telvogue

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Writers:Dorcas Akintoye, Johnson Chukwueke & Evi-Ben Ezaga Design & Layout: Hogan Effiom Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun, Victoria Dairo & Olamide Abolarin Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown 36AA Remi Fani-Kayode Avenue, GRA, Ikeja. Lagos, Nigeria. +234 810 345 2286, +234 913 333 3888

Ada Obiajunwa @aaddaahh - Contributing Writer Ada Obiajunwa writes from Lagos about the big truths tucked inside ordinary moments — friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet revolutions of everyday life. She believes in the power of presence, good banter, and decoding the unsaid. Through her fragrance studio, WhiffWonders, she also crafts scents that weave memory and emotion into experiences that feel like home.

@ekamaetiminyang I didn’t read anything you said. The beauty is mushy and loud

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Issue No. ISSUE NO.291 261••September FEBRUARY6,08, 2026 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

FASHION

WAYS TO STYLE MESH BALLET FLATS BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

esh ballet flats' light and airy design can make a simple outfit look more polished without feeling too serious. They also work very well for warm weather, casual outings, office days, brunch, dates, and even weekend plans. If you recently bought a pair and are wondering how to wear them, this article will show you four easy styling ideas to try.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

FASHION

WEAR THEM WITH A MIDI SKIRT

Mesh ballet flats look lov ely with a midi skirt becaus e both pieces have a soft, feminine feel. Choose a plain skirt if your flats ha ve details, or wear a printe d skirt with simple flats. A fitted blouse or tuckedin T-shirt will help keep the outfit balanced.This combination is comfort able for lunch dates or casual gatherings.

MATCH THEM WITH A SIMPLE DRESS A simple dress can instantly look more interesting with mesh ballet flats.Try a midi dress, shirt dress, or an easy slip-style dress. Keep the rest of your accessories simple so the shoes can add a stylish touch. A structured handbag and small earrings can finish the look nicely. This outfit works for brunch, casual dates, birthday outings, and other occasions where you want to look dressed without looking overdressed.

STYLE THEM WITH TAILORED TROUSERS

You can also mak e mesh ballet flats work fo ra smart office look. Tr y them with high-w aisted tailored trousers an da crisp button-down shirt. The trousers mak e the outfit look polishe d, while the flats keep it relaxed and comfo rtable. Neutral shades su ch as black, cream, br own, or nude are easy to match with workw ear. This is especially useful when you want to look professional withou t wearing heels all day.

TRY THEM WITH SHORTS For a more relaxed look, style your mesh ballet flats with tailored or denim shorts. Add a loose button-down shirt or simple T-shirt. The flats make shorts look a little more refine d while keeping the outfit cool and easy. Finish with sunglasses, a small bag, or simple jewellery . This is a good choice for weekend plans, vacations, or casual outdoor activities.

Mesh ballet flats are more versatile than they may seem. From shorts to skirts, trousers, and dresses, they can fit into your wardrobe. The key is to keep the outfit comfortable, balanced, and suitable for the occasion.

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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

SALLY CHIWUZIE

UNTOLD TRUTHS @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

Of All the Women in the Room, Why Me?

elling people that I raised my children largely as a single mother often earns me the same look, a mixture of sympathy, admiration and the quiet understanding that doing life that way comes with a particular kind of weight.

More troublingly, are single mothers sometimes perceived as low-hanging fruit? There remains a peculiar assumption that a single mother must be lonely, grateful for male attention, and perhaps less entitled to standards because she arrives with children, a history, and responsibility.

People understand the practical side of it, the responsibility, the decisions made alone, the constant balancing act, the need to be both a soft place and a safety net. What we discuss less often is the wilderness that can exist around single motherhood, especially when it comes to relationships, companionship and how other people begin to see you. Some women move quickly into another relationship because companionship can feel especially precious after carrying so much alone. Sometimes it works beautifully. Sometimes they find themselves trapped again and terrified to leave because making the same mistake twice can feel like an indictment of their judgment. Others remain single for years, and that wilderness has its own stories. I have three. Three male friends, at different points in my life, listened sympathetically to mine. They told me I was a good woman, that they could not understand why any man would walk away from someone like me, and that I deserved love. I believed their friendship was safe. Then, given the opportunity at social gatherings, each crossed a physical boundary with me through an inappropriate touch or grope that shifted the atmosphere in a second and left me wondering why friendship had suddenly been confused with entitlement. Alcohol was blamed. Apologies followed. There was regret, embarrassment and insistence that they had never intended to make me uncomfortable. I believed much of the regret was genuine. Still, one question stayed with me.

The language often gives it away. A man is praised for accepting her children. She is told she is lucky to have found someone. The implication is subtle but ugly, as though partnership has somehow restored something that was missing from her value. Perhaps this is cultural. Perhaps it extends far beyond Nigerian communities. I genuinely do not know, which is why I would rather ask the question than pretend I have the answer. What I do know is that sympathy can become dangerous when it quietly turns into assumption.

Of all the women in that room, why me? The answer I arrived at made me uncomfortable. Many of the other women had husbands or partners nearby. Others spoke openly enough about the men in their lives that their relationship status entered the room before they did. I was visibly single. Was that relevant? I cannot know what happened subconsciously inside another person's mind, and perhaps these were simply three unrelated incidents. Still, repetition makes you curious. I began wondering whether society creates an unconscious hierarchy around women and perceived protection. Does the presence of a husband or partner communicate a boundary that a woman's own existence somehow does not?

A woman can be lonely without being available. She can desire companionship without being desperate. She can raise children alone and still have standards high enough to require a ladder. Most importantly, the absence of a man beside her does not create an empty space for another man to occupy without invitation. My friends apologised, and the conversations afterwards were revealing because none consciously believed they had targeted me because I was single. That almost made the question more interesting. Unconscious bias rarely introduces itself. Perhaps the #Unshakable truth is that women should not require visible male protection before their boundaries are respected. So, I am curious. Single mothers, single women, divorced women and widows, have you ever felt that your relationship status changed the way men approached you? Maybe my three experiences were a coincidence. Or perhaps there is a conversation sitting in plain sight that we have been too polite to have. ‘See’ you next week.

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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER

ome businesses are built to sell products, but some grow into brands that become part of people's lives. For 15 years, Zaron has established its place in the beauty industry by creating products with African women in mind and proving that a Nigerian brand can compete with established names worldwide. As the brand marks 15 years this September, its journey is one of ambition, resilience, learning and a strong belief in what African businesses can achieve. At the heart of that journey is Oke Maduewesi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Zaron Group of Companies, comprising Zaron International Limited, Zaron Cosmetics Limited and Skin By Zaron. Through these businesses, she has built a beauty company that manufactures, distributes, and markets products under the Zaron brand. Before becoming an entrepreneur, Maduewesi had a successful career in banking, where she rose to the position of Manager and Head of one of Zenith Bank's most profitable branches. She later left the corporate world, earned an MBA from the University of Leeds, and turned her long-held desire to build a business into reality. Today, as Zaron prepares to celebrate its 15th anniversary, she continues to lead the brand while navigating a rapidly changing beauty industry. In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Oke Maduewesi discusses the thinking behind Zaron's decision to create products specifically for women of colour, the challenge of getting Africans to trust African-made beauty products, and how the brand remains relevant in a fast-changing industry. She also talks about what 15 years in business has taught her and what the next chapter could look like for Zaron.

OKE MADUEWESI On 15 Years of Zaron and Building a Legacy PAGE 8

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

COVER When you launched Zaron, the Nigerian beauty market was already dominated by international brands. What gap did you see that others overlooked, and how did that shape your strategy from day one? From the very beginning, our goal was to build a brand that was both globally relevant and authentically African. We did not want to introduce another international beauty brand to the African market. We wanted to create something that could stand alongside established global brands and ultimately compete with them internationally. At the time, the Nigerian beauty market was heavily dominated by Western brands, and I saw a clear opportunity. There were not enough products developed specifically for women of colour, with our skin tones, needs, and experiences in mind. I often asked myself, “Who better to create products for women of colour than women of colour themselves?” That question became the foundation of our strategy. We focused on understanding African women from our own perspective and creating products that genuinely addressed their needs. From day one, our mission was to take ownership of that space as Africans, build an authentic local brand and, ultimately, bring that authenticity to the global stage. The beauty industry changes almost overnight, with trends constantly driven by social media. How does Zaron decide which trends to embrace and which ones to ignore? Thank God for the younger generation, because sometimes I am honestly almost lost! Trends move incredibly quickly, particularly on social media, and I am not especially active in the digital space. One of the most important qualities of a leader is recognising that you do not know everything and being willing to draw on the knowledge and expertise of the people around you. You have to know when to ask for guidance. At Zaron, we have a strong business development team made up of talented, young and creative people who are closely connected to emerging trends and understand what is happening across digital platforms. We rely greatly on their insights. They help us assess whether a trend is relevant to our consumers, aligned with our brand identity and capable of creating lasting value. If it does not meet those criteria and appears to be merely a passing trend, we are comfortable letting it go. For me, it is about remaining open, listening to the younger generation and trusting the expertise of the team to help us make the right decisions.

sustainability. We also work only with reputable, appropriately certified manufacturers that share our commitment to responsible production. As consumers have become more informed, their expectations have encouraged us to communicate more clearly and remain accountable. This increased awareness has not changed our core approach; it has reinforced our commitment to developing inclusive, reliable products responsibly and transparently.

"Reading people’s comments, getting feedback and seeing how much the work has helped someone. That’s what I would call my biggest growth. In terms of creativity and technicals, they are continuous processes."

African beauty standards have evolved significantly over the last decade. Do you think African beauty brands still have work to do in defining beauty on their own terms, rather than following global trends? I would not necessarily say that. African beauty is still evolving, but I believe we have come a long way in defining beauty on our own terms. We can see this in many ways. More African women are embracing their natural hair, traditional hairstyles and clothing, and celebrating their identity wherever they are in the world. It is important to acknowledge how much progress has already been made. African women are increasingly defining beauty for themselves and, more importantly, expressing it with confidence and pride. African beauty brands have an important role to play in supporting that confidence by creating products and telling stories that reflect our identities and experiences. Global trends may influence the industry, but they should not define us. I believe African women are already shaping their own vision of beauty, and this will only continue to grow stronger.

"Growth in everything, such as quality of production, storytelling, You've built Zaron into one of Africa's actors, the fact that most recognisable beauty brands. What has been the biggest challenge the barriers are in scaling the business without quality or your core gradually thinning out, compromising values? and opportunities for I think one of the biggest challenges in scaling the business has been getting everyone who has a Africans to fully trust that we can deliver very best products for ourselves. voice- I am just excited the We’ve come a very long way, and things certainly much better than they for where Nollywood are used to be. But there is still a significant percentage of Africans who believe is."

Consumers today are more informed than ever. They care about ingredients, inclusivity, sustainability and transparency. How has this shift changed the way Zaron develops products? We have always been intentional about how our products are developed. From the beginning, we have carefully considered our ingredients, labelling, manufacturing processes and the partners we work with. Our research and development team ensures that each formulation meets our standards for safety, quality, skin compatibility and

for my experience in the corporate world because it shaped me and helped me become a more efficient and productive entrepreneur. I would do it all over again without any regrets. I often advise aspiring entrepreneurs to consider gaining corporate experience first. It provides valuable exposure to systems, structure, processes and people management, all of which become essential when building and running a business. So, while I do not miss corporate life, I deeply appreciate everything it taught me. It prepared me for the different stages of my journey and the entrepreneur I would eventually become.

that foreign products are automatically better and, as a result, don’t always trust local beauty brands as much as they should. For us, that means constantly having to prove ourselves through the quality of our products, the standards we maintain, and the consistency of what we deliver. So I think one of the major challenges in scaling has been not just building a great African beauty brand, but changing the perception that quality has to come from outside Africa. We want Africans to trust that we can create products for ourselves that are every bit as good as anything produced anywhere else in the world.

You often speak about integrity and purpose. In today's business environment, where companies face pressure to grow quickly, how do you ensure those values remain

non-negotiable? As a Nigerian and as someone doing business in Nigeria, I can honestly say that it can be extremely tough. And I say that with every level of sincerity. There are moments when the pressure and frustration can become overwhelming, and you may find yourself tempted to compromise. But I think the most important thing is to remain true to yourself and to your values. You may not be able to control everything around you, but within the things you can control, you should always do as much as you can to do what is right. My guiding principle is to do as much good as possible, make the right choices within the areas I can influence and keep moving forward. Growth is important, but it should never come at the expense of integrity or purpose. As long as you remain grounded in your values and continue to act according to what you believe is right, those principles will remain non-negotiable. Congratulations on Zaron's 15th anniversary. As you celebrate this milestone, what do you think has been the biggest lesson these 15 years have taught you? I think the biggest lesson these 15 years have taught me is simply that life comes in different shades and different colours. You have your own canvas, and you can almost design the kind of art you want to create with your life. But the reality is that life will also bring you difficult moments. And those difficult moments are not necessarily there to break you; they often shape you into the next version of yourself. I think your ability to acknowledge and embrace all the different versions, shapes, colours, and complexities that life brings is what ultimately makes you who you are. Sometimes we miss that. We resist the difficult seasons or wish they were different, and in doing so, we miss the opportunity to become who we’re meant to become. I’ve learned that life is going to be life. It will come with its beautiful moments and its difficult ones, and that’s never really going to change. What matters is how you embrace every part of the journey and allow each experience to shape you into the person you’re becoming.

"The stories are right there, and we need to open up the story world. Of course, there are factors limiting that, though; take, for instance, security issues like banditry."

Looking back at your years in banking, is there anything you miss about corporate life, or has entrepreneurship completely changed your definition of success? The answer is a definite no. I do not miss corporate life. However, I am extremely grateful

Artificial intelligence, e-commerce and digital creators are transforming the beauty business. Which of these changes excites you the most, and which do you think the industry should approach with caution? For someone of my generation, the honest answer

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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER is probably none of them. I come from a time when business was conducted in more traditional ways, so the pace of technological change sometimes feels more fascinating than exciting. That said, I recognise that artificial intelligence, e-commerce and digital creators are now essential parts of the business environment. Technology can simplify certain processes, but it can also introduce new complexities. Businesses must therefore embrace it thoughtfully or risk being left behind. At Zaron, we continue to adapt by drawing on the expertise of people who understand these areas better than we do. As leaders, we do not need to know everything ourselves, but we must be willing to learn and rely on the right talent and resources. The area I would approach with the most

caution is artificial intelligence because its use must be responsible, transparent, and guided by human judgement. We must ensure that technology supports creativity and strengthens consumer trust rather than replacing authenticity. So, while I would not say that any one of these developments excites me personally, I understand their value and recognise that embracing them responsibly is essential to remaining relevant.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

LUXURY SILK

ADA OBIAJUNWA @aaddaahh

He Had Been Going Somewhere A

da had been honking for a while when the man decided to help her. She was trying to turn right into Adetokunbo Ademola. The bus in front of her was not. It was a commercial bus going straight along Ozumba Mbadiwe, where the traffic light was red, and the cars were waiting. The turning lane had been moving. So, the bus driver had taken it. Now he was at the front. The light was still red.

Everyone got out. Two men. Two women. They were coming from work. They looked at the damage. Then they started pleading. “Madam, sorry.” “Please.” “It wasn't intentional.” Ada and her driver were still looking at the car when people began to gather. Then a man came from the left. Ada hadn't seen him before. He looked at the SUV. Looked at the four people. Looked at Ada. And developed a position. “Madam, abeg, leave them.” The four continued pleading. So did he. Madam was being driven. Madam was in an SUV. Madam could afford it. She should let them go. After a while, he was doing considerably more talking than they were. His voice was louder than theirs. When they spoke, they apologised. When he spoke, he argued. “Madam, abeg. Leave them.” The four pleaded. He made another submission. They apologised. He made another. Eventually, Ada had had enough.

He couldn't move forward. The cars beside him were packed too closely for him to move back in. And behind him was Ada. Trying to turn right. He had successfully outsmarted himself. Ada honked. Nothing. She honked again. Still nothing. That was when the man appeared. He was on foot. He had been going somewhere. Then he saw the bus. He walked towards it. Ada's windows were up. The AC was blasting. She couldn't hear what he was saying.

She turned to the four of them. Their colleague, she said, was making the situation worse. If he continued like this, they would have to pay for the damage. The four stopped pleading. They looked at Ada. Then at the man. Then at one another. “Madam, we don't know him.” Ada looked at the man. So did they.

She could see that he had plenty to say. He pointed towards Ada's car. Then towards the turning lane. Then back at the driver. The bus driver answered. That appeared to be the wrong answer. The man moved closer. Ada watched from inside the car. By now, she was watching him more than the bus. She still didn't know who he was. Ada was delighted. There was absolutely nothing the man could do to move the bus. The driver had trapped himself until the light changed. This did not discourage him. He continued.

Then the light changed. The cars began to move. The bus moved. Ada turned right. Watching him, Ada remembered another afternoon on the same Ozumba Mbadiwe. Another man who had been passing by. Ada was on the phone when a loud bang sounded behind her. Her driver stopped. A car had hit the back of her SUV.

One of the men turned to him. “Oga, abeg. We are handling it.” The man continued. Another joined. “Oga, abeg now. Leave this thing.” The women joined too. Now all four of them were telling the man not to plead on their behalf. He persisted. Ada looked at him. “So I should take my children's school fees and use it to repair the car?” The man still had things to say. It took a while. Eventually, the four turned back to Ada. “Madam, please.” Behind them, the man was still talking.

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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BEAUTY

TIPS TO FIX HAIR BREAKAGE

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

air breakage is a common problem that affects many people. You may notice short strands in your comb, split ends, thinning edges, or hair that never seems to grow longer. Often, the issue is not slow growth. The hair is simply breaking faster than it can keep its length. Heat styling, chemicals, tight hairstyles, rough handling, or lack of moisture can cause breakage. In this article, we will show you five practical tips to fix hair breakage.

KEEP YOUR HAIR MOISTURISED Dry hair breaks more easily than moisturised hair. When hair lacks moisture, it becomes weak and more likely to snap during styling. Use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner, then apply a leavein conditioner after washing. You can also use a light oil or cream to help lock in moisture. Pay extra attention to your ends, as they are usually the weakest part of your hair. Keeping your hair moisturised improves flexibility and helps prevent breakage.

REDUCE HEAT STYLING Flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can weaken the hair over time. Too much heat removes moisture and damages the hair shaft, making strands more prone to breakage. Try air drying your hair whenever possible and choose heat-free styles more often. If you need to use heat tools, apply a heat protectant first and avoid very high temperatures. Reducing heat exposure gives your hair a better chance to stay healthy and strong.

BE GENTLE WHEN DETANGLING Many people cause breakage while trying to remove knots. Pulling through tangles with force can snap the hair. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers and work slowly. Start from the ends and move upward little by little. Detangling damp hair with conditioner can also make the process easier. Gentle detangling reduces stress on the strands and helps prevent unnecessary damage.

AVOID TIGHT HAIRSTYLES Tight braids, ponytails, buns, and weaves can place too much tension on the hair. Over time, this can lead to breakage, especially around the edges. Choose looser styles when possible and allow your hair to rest between protective styles. If a hairstyle feels painful, it is likely too tight. Reducing tension helps protect your strands and keeps your hair healthier.

TRIM DAMAGED ENDS REGULARLY

Split ends do not fix themselves. If they are ignored, the damage can move higher up the hair strand, causing more breakage. Regular trims remove damaged ends before the problem becomes worse. You do not need to remove much hair. Small trims every few months can improve the overall health and appearance of your hair. Healthy ends make hair look smoother and better maintained.

Fixing hair breakage takes time, but consistent care can make a big difference. Focus on moisture, limit heat, detangle gently, avoid tight styles, and trim damaged ends regularly.

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Issue IssueNo. No.291 291••September September6,6,2026 2026

FITNESS

Common Mistakes People Make During Glute Training BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

lute training has become a major part of modern fitness culture, with squats, hip thrusts, lunges and resistance bands appearing everywhere from gyms to social media feeds. But doing the exercises regularly doesn't automatically guarantee results. Sometimes, the problem isn't how often you're training, but how you're training. Small mistakes in form, exercise selection, recovery and even expectations can quietly work against your progress. If you've been putting in the effort but your results aren't matching it, these common mistakes might explain why.

CHASING HEAVY WEIGHTS Lifting heavier isn't always better. When the weight becomes too challenging, people often compensate by using other muscles or sacrificing proper form just to complete the repetition. Glute exercises are most effective when you can control the movement and properly engage the target muscles. Increasing weight gradually while maintaining good technique is usually more productive than constantly trying to impress yourself, or everyone else, with heavier loads.

RUSHING THROUGH REPETITIONS

IGNORING RECOVERY

Speed can make a workout feel harder without necessarily making it more effective. Flying through hip thrusts, squats or kickbacks can reduce control and make it difficult to engage the glutes properly. Slowing down, particularly during the lowering phase of an exercise, gives you more control over the movement. Instead of counting repetitions to finish a set, focus on performing each one deliberately.

More workouts don't necessarily mean faster results. Muscles need time to recover and adapt after training. Constantly working the same muscle group without adequate rest can leave you feeling sore, fatigued and unable to perform at your best. Sleep, rest days and sensible training frequency are part of the process, not signs that you're being lazy. Your workout happens in the gym, but recovery is when your body has the opportunity to respond.

DOING THE SAME EXERCISES EVERY TIME

FORGETTING THE REST OF YOUR BODY

Hip thrusts may be popular, but your entire glute workout shouldn't depend on one exercise. The glutes perform several functions, so using different movements can provide more varied training. Squats, Romanian deadlifts, lunges, step-ups, hip thrusts and abduction movements can all play different roles. Variety doesn't mean constantly changing your routine; it means giving your muscles different ways to work while still allowing enough consistency to measure progress.

A glute-focused routine shouldn't mean completely ignoring everything else. Strong glutes work alongside your core, hamstrings, quadriceps and other muscles to support movement and stability. Training your whole body can help build greater overall strength and balance while enhancing your performance during lowerbody exercises. Building your glutes isn't about neglecting the rest of your body; it's about making them part of a stronger body overall.

Glute training isn't simply about doing more squats or lifting heavier weights. Good results come from combining proper technique, progressive training, variety, nutrition and adequate recovery. Sometimes, fixing the small things you're already doing wrong can make a much bigger difference than adding another exercise to your routine.

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Issue No. No. 291 291 •• September September 6, 6, 2026 2026 Issue

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HEALTH

UNDERSTANDING ENDOMETRIOSIS BEYOND “PAINFUL PERIODS”

BY VICTORIA DAIRO

or many women, severe period pain is something they are told to endure. It can be dismissed as a normal part of menstruation, something that will eventually pass, or simply a particularly difficult cycle. But when pain is persistent, disruptive or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be pointing to something more than a painful period. Endometriosis is a chronic condition that can affect much more than a woman’s menstrual cycle. It can influence daily life, emotional well-being and reproductive health, yet many women spend years trying to understand symptoms that have been normalised or overlooked.

MORE THAN PERIOD PAIN Endometriosis can cause symptoms that extend beyond the menstrual cycle. Some women experience ongoing pelvic pain, painful bowel movements or urination, pain during sex, bloating and fatigue. Symptoms can vary widely, and some women may have the condition without experiencing obvious symptoms. This can make recognising and discussing the condition more difficult.

UNDERSTANDING ITS IMPACT ON FERTILITY Endometriosis can also affect reproductive health. Having the condition does not mean a woman cannot become pregnant, but it can sometimes make conception more difficult. For women experiencing fertility challenges, understanding whether endometriosis may be contributing can be an important part of discussing their reproductive health with a healthcare professional.

LISTENING TO YOUR BODY Endometriosis is not simply about having “bad periods.” It can affect a woman’s physical health, emotional well-being, daily life and reproductive health. Paying attention to persistent or unusual symptoms and seeking medical advice can help women better understand what is happening in their bodies. No woman should feel that debilitating pain is something she has to accept.

WHEN PAIN BECOMES PART OF EVERYDAY LIFE

For some women, endometriosis can affect everyday life in ways that are easy to overlook. Persistent pain and fatigue may interfere with work and school activities. When these symptoms are repeatedly dismissed as “normal period pain,” women may feel they have to endure them rather than seek help.

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WHY DIAGNOSIS CAN TAKE TIME

Endometriosis can be difficult to identify because its symptoms can resemble those of other conditions. The severity of pain does not always indicate how extensive the condition is, and some women may spend years seeking answers before receiving a diagnosis. Keeping track of recurring symptoms and discussing them openly with a healthcare professional can help women receive appropriate evaluation and care.

Endometriosis can be challenging to live with, but greater awareness can help women recognise symptoms and seek support sooner. Understanding that the condition goes beyond painful periods is an important step towards better conversations, earlier evaluation and appropriate care. Listening to the body and taking persistent symptoms seriously can make a meaningful difference in a woman’s health and quality of life.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

CULTURE

EVI-BEN EZAGA

THE NEW NORMAL A Different Idea of Acceptable

ome things never needed an explanation for why they were inappropriate. Not necessarily illegal or immoral, just out of place. People simply understood it, the way you understand not to laugh at a funeral without anyone telling you. Those ideas have not disappeared exactly. They have simply become harder to agree on. Someone can walk down a busy street in an outfit that leaves very little to the imagination and, when questioned, the explanation can be simple: it is hot outside, they are comfortable, and they should be able to wear whatever they want. The conversation quickly moves from whether the setting calls for something different to whether anyone has the right to question the choice at all.

people decided they were not. Change like this is not new, and it is not automatically a bad thing. But becoming more openminded does not mean every boundary has to disappear.

Some of these changes are undoubtedly positive. Society has changed its mind about many things that once unfairly restricted people. A woman deciding not to marry or have children, interracial or intertribal marriages—these were all once treated as inappropriate, even unacceptable in many places, until enough

People should be free to make their own choices. But personal freedom has never existed without some shared understanding of setting.

There isn't one clear standard anymore. What is acceptable can depend on your age, your family, your religion, your social circle or even the specific place you happen to be in. Something that would attract disapproving looks at a family gathering might not matter at all among friends.

People soften their voices in hospitals without being told to. They dress differently for a wedding than they do for a beach. A classroom calls for one kind of language, a bar for another. Nobody teaches these things directly; people absorb them by watching everyone else.

The pattern often follows

Those unwritten rules are part of what makes public life work. None of this is an argument for going backwards. Many old standards were unfair and designed to keep certain people smaller and quieter than they deserved to be. Some boundaries were right to fall, and society is better for it.

And that shift extends far beyond clothing. Our understanding of what is acceptable seems to be changing in all sorts of ways. Things that might once have been described as inappropriate, excessive or simply "not done" can now be defended as selfexpression, personal choice or "that's just who I am."

learn to stay quiet, not because they've changed their minds, but because they don't want the backlash.

But losing a bad boundary is not the same as losing the idea of boundaries altogether. The difficult part is knowing which is which. the same path. Someone says something feels off, and the response comes quickly: why does it matter to you? Someone finds something excessive, and the answer is self-expression. Someone questions a norm, and the response is: "Who decided that was the rule, anyway?" Each argument sounds reasonable on its own, but together they add up to something else: questioning the behaviour now often draws more attention than the behaviour itself, and people

That is what is changing most, not the rules themselves, but our willingness to ask who made them, who they apply to, and whether they still hold. The boundary is still moving, whether anyone has agreed to move it or not. And most of us may only notice how far it has moved when something that once felt unusual suddenly feels completely normal, and becomes ours to react to. PAGE 15

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

DÉCOR

5 Ways to Decorate Your Home With Brown ADD BROWN FURNITURE

Brown furniture can make a room feel warm and welcoming. A wooden dining table, a brown sofa, a leather chair, or a wooden bed frame can become the main feature of a space. Light walls let brown furniture add depth without making the room feel too dark. For a softer look, choose light or medium brown furniture. Dark brown works well when you want the room to feel rich and cosy. You can always balance dark furniture with light curtains, rugs, or cushions.

USE BROWN ON THE WALLS Brown walls can make a room feel comfortable and peaceful. You do not have to use a very dark shade. Light browns, tan, caramel, and warm beige can brighten a room while still adding warmth. Dark chocolate brown can also look beautiful on one feature wall, especially in a bedroom or living room. If the colour feels heavy, paint only one wall brown and keep the other walls light. This gives you the warmth of brown without overwhelming the space.

BRING IN BROWN THROUGH TEXTILES

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

rown is one of the easiest colours to bring into your home. It feels warm, calm, and natural. From beige-brown shades to deep chocolate tones, there is a brown for every room. In this article, we will show you five simple ways to decorate your home with brown.

PAIR BROWN WITH NATURAL MATERIALS Brown naturally works well with materials such as wood, rattan, bamboo, jute, and stone. Try adding a wooden coffee table, woven baskets, rattan chairs, or a jute rug. Add plants to bring green into the space. The combination of brown, natural textures, and greenery can make your home feel fresh, calm, and connected to nature.

If you want an easy change, use brown through soft furnishings. Think about curtains, rugs, cushions, blankets, and bedding. These items can add brown without requiring a major makeover. You can mix different shades of brown in the same room. Mixing textures, such as cotton, wool, and velvet, can make the room feel more interesting and comfortable.

COMBINE BROWN WITH OTHER COLOURS Brown does not have to stand alone. It looks great with many colours, so you can use it to create different moods. Pair brown with cream or white for a clean and soft look. Add green for a fresh, natural feel, or use blue for a calm and balanced room. If you want something warmer, try brown with terracotta, mustard, or rust. Start with brown as your main colour, then add one or two extra colours through small decorations.

Brown can make a home feel warm, stylish, and inviting without being difficult to use. Whether you choose furniture, walls, textiles, natural materials, or colourful accents, there are many ways to bring this versatile shade into your space.

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Issue No. No. 291 291 •• September September 6, 6, 2026 2026 Issue

RELATIONSHIP

SITUATIONSHIPS EXPLAINED Why Undefined Relationships Can Be So Difficult to Leave

THERE ARE FEELINGS, EVEN WITHOUT A LABEL

A lack of a relationship title doesn't mean a lack of emotional attachment. Spending significant time with someone, becoming intimate and sharing personal experiences naturally creates a connection. You may tell yourself that it's casual, but your emotions don't necessarily follow the rules of the arrangement.

UNCERTAINTY CAN KEEP YOU HOOKED One of the most difficult aspects of a situationship is not knowing what comes next. Maybe they will eventually commit. Maybe things will become more serious. Maybe they're simply taking their time. That uncertainty can keep you waiting because the possibility of a future together remains open. Instead of responding to what the relationship actually is, you can become attached to what you hope it will become.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

odern dating has created a strange middle ground between being single and being in a relationship. You talk every day, spend nights together, meet each other's friends, share personal details and perhaps even make plans, but nobody has actually defined what you are. Welcome to the situationship. It can feel casual and exciting at first because there are fewer expectations and seemingly less pressure. Without a clear commitment, one person may find themselves emotionally invested while still wondering where they stand. So why can walking away from something that was “never really a relationship” feel so difficult?

YOU GET ENOUGH TO STAY, BUT NOT ENOUGH TO FEEL SECURE Situationships can provide many of the enjoyable parts of relationships without offering the same level of certainty. You may receive affection, companionship, intimacy and attention, but still lack commitment, consistency or clarity. That combination can be particularly confusing because there are enough positive moments to make leaving difficult, even when the arrangement isn't meeting your emotional needs.

THE LACK OF CLOSURE CAN MAKE MOVING ON HARDER

A conventional breakup usually comes with an acknowledgement that the relationship has ended. Situationships don't always provide that moment. Sometimes communication simply becomes less frequent until one person disappears. Other times, the connection repeatedly ends and restarts. Without a clear ending, you may keep wondering whether it's truly over or whether another conversation could change things.

LEAVING REQUIRES ACCEPTING WHAT IT ISN'T

Perhaps the hardest part is accepting the relationship for what it actually is rather than what you want it to become. If you want commitment but the other person consistently offers something casual, waiting longer may not change the situation. Leaving doesn't mean the connection wasn't meaningful. It means recognising that meaningful and suitable are not always the same thing. You are allowed to want clarity, commitment and a relationship that aligns with your expectations. Situationships aren't automatically bad. Two people can genuinely agree to something casual and enjoy it without problems. The difficulty begins when expectations change, but the arrangement doesn't. Sometimes the hardest relationship to leave is the one that was never clearly defined, but that doesn't mean you have to remain in it.

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Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BON APPÉTIT

THE HOMEMADE CAFÉ COFFEE SHOP FAVOURITES YOU CAN MAKE AT HOME

offee shops have become more than places to grab a quick drink. They are spaces for catching up with friends, working remotely, having a quiet morning, or simply treating yourself. Recreating that café experience at home can be surprisingly easy and often much cheaper. With a few basic ingredients and simple techniques, you can turn your kitchen into your own little café. From creamy iced coffees to indulgent hot chocolate and refreshing homemade coolers, these recipes are perfect for slow mornings, weekend brunches, or when you're craving your favourite café order without leaving the house.

BY NATO CHIMA

ICED VANILLA LATTE What you'll need: 1 shot of espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee ½ cup milk 1–2 teaspoons vanilla syrup Ice cubes Fill a glass with ice, add the vanilla syrup and coffee, then pour in the milk. Stir well and serve cold. For an extra café-style finish, add a little whipped cream.

HOMEMADE MOCHA

What you'll need: 1 shot espresso or ½ cup strong coffee 1 tablespoon cocoa powder 1 tablespoon sugar ½ cup warm milk Chocolate syrup Mix the cocoa powder and sugar with the hot coffee until smooth. Add warm milk and stir. Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a richer taste.

STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE

ICED CHOCOLATE What you'll need: 1 cup cold milk 1½ tablespoons cocoa powder 1 tablespoon sugar Ice cubes Chocolate syrup Whisk the cocoa powder and sugar with a small amount of warm water until smooth. Add cold milk and ice, then finish with chocolate syrup.

HOMEMADE LEMONADE What you'll need: 3 fresh lemons 3 cups cold water 3 – 4 tablespoons sugar Ice Mint leaves Squeeze the lemons into a jug, add water and sugar, and stir until dissolved. Add plenty of ice and fresh mint before serving.

What you'll need: 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries ½ banana ½ cup yoghurt ½ cup milk 1 teaspoon honey Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if you prefer a thinner consistency. It's an easy breakfast or afternoon refreshment. Creating café favourites at home doesn't require expensive equipment or professional barista skills. A few everyday ingredients, a blender or coffee maker, and a little creativity can give you delicious drinks without the café bill. Better still, you can adjust the sweetness, flavours, and ingredients to suit your taste. So the next time you're tempted to order your favourite drink, head to the kitchen first; you might discover that your homemade version is even better.

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THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

s e l c i n o r h c ’s y s s ca MORE THAN FRIENDS

He was just looking at me. I laughed nervously. “Why are you looking at me like that?” “Like what?” “Daniel.” He smiled. “What?” I shook my head. “Nothing. Just leave me.” But I didn't move away when he came closer. That was my first mistake. When he kissed me, every sensible thought in my head disappeared. I had imagined kissing him before. More times than I would ever admit to him. But imagining it and actually having him that close were two completely different things. I felt my body relax against him almost immediately. His touch was gentle at first, almost as if he were waiting for me to change my mind. But I didn't. Instead, I held on to him. The more we kissed, the harder it became to remember all the rules I had made for myself. I had spent months pretending I didn't want this man, and suddenly I was in his arms, feeling everything I had been trying so hard to ignore. My heart was racing. I remember thinking, This is a very bad idea. Then I remember thinking, I don't care. The feeling kept building until I couldn't pretend I was still in control. I closed my eyes and let myself feel it. His hands moved to my breasts right away, squeezing them over the cloth. They were soft and full, and my nipples hardened under his touch. He pulled up my top and bra, freeing my breasts. He fondled slowly at first, thumbs circling those dark nipples, making me moan softly. I pressed my body against him. He bent down and took one nipple in his mouth, sucking and licking gently. I gasped, gripping his shoulders. "Oh God, don't stop," I told him. He switched to the other breast, sucking with more force now, his tongue swirling around the tip as his hand worked the first one.

honestly did not expect it to happen that night.

he hugged me, I would pretend I didn't notice how long I wanted the hug to last.

Maybe that was why it hit me so hard.

But neither of us had said anything.

His name was Daniel, and technically, we So when he came over that evening, I had were not dating. At least, that was what I kept already decided I was going to behave myself. telling myself. No unnecessary touching. No getting carried We had been friends for almost a year. away. No allowing myself to forget that this man The kind of friends who talked every day, was still technically my friend. teased each other about everything, and At least, that was the plan. somehow always ended up spending more We were sitting on my bed, talking and laughing time together than we planned. Somewhere about something stupid. I don't even remember along the line, things had changed. I started what it was now. noticing the way he looked at me. I started looking forward to his calls. And whenever Then I noticed he had stopped talking.

My breath quickened, and my hips started rocking without me thinking. He kept at it, sucking and touching, building this fire inside me. Then his hand went lower, removing my skirt and panties. He knelt, spread my legs, and pressed his mouth to my lady bits. He licked my clit in slow strokes, then sucked it, pushing his tongue in a little. I cried out, my thighs trembling around his head. It was too intense, but I kept his head there with my hands. He sucked stronger, licking up and down while his fingers went back to my breasts. My whole body tightened, and suddenly I orgasmed hard. My vjayjay throbbed against his tongue, and I moaned loud as the waves hit, my juices coming out. I shook all over, yelling his name. The rest of the night with Daniel was something I was sure I would remember for a long time.

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THEWILL THEWILL DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN •• www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 291 • September 6, 2026

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Youtube Music)

MOVIE REVIEW:

Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Spotify)

Out of the Further in, though, because all families in an Insidious film live in an oversized single-family suburban midcentury house (demons seemingly require either a cellar or a finished attic). Now Gemma is raising her own daughter (Island Austin) as a single mom, uncovering her family’s long, weird connection to the Further.

magine visiting a haunted house. The first year you go, everything is new and exciting, and every scare is fresh. The second year is fun in a different way, as you kind of know what’s going to happen, but this time you can look for what’s new and appreciate the experience a little more. Now imagine the sixth year of the same haunt; the owners haven’t really changed much, there are a few new monsters but nothing that memorable, and all in all it just feels like everyone’s stopped trying.

The Red Door that connects our world and the Further may as well be revolving, so many spirits come through. Thus, being dead doesn’t stop psychic demon-buster Elise Rainier (Lin Shaye) from coming to Gemma’s aid, lighting her way back to the real world. By which I mean, she seems to hit demons on the head with a camping light. The absolute heart and soul of the franchise, Shaye may well have shot her entire performance in one afternoon, and even one of Elise’s biggest speeches is actually delivered via grapefruits (you read that right) tattooed by her Earth-bound ally, new medium Claire (Maisie Richardson-Sellers).

Everything about the franchise at this stage seems rigorously competent but worn out. Whannell’s original idea of the Further being little more than a blank space now makes it all look like That’s very much the experience black-box theatre with some spooky of Insidious: Out of the Further, mist. It’s also clear that the franchise the unexpected sixth episode should have wrapped up with The Red in creator Leigh Whannell’s Door as, aside from some returning paranormal horror franchise. spirits as background extras, this feels I say unexpected because disconnected from the rest of the audiences thought that the series. If anything, the new villain, series, with its ripsaw back-andthe spirit of a murderous cult leader forth timeline, had come to an (Sam Spruell) trying to come back end with 2023’s Insidious: The to life with a hellish army, makes it Red Door. That film seemed to all suspiciously similar to the plot of have finally wrapped up the Ghostbusters II. Overall, it’s hard to saga of the Lambert family ignore the creeping suspicion that the and the Lipstick-Faced Demon, producers just lazily slapped the word even if a closing stinger had “Insidious” on an unrelated script and threatened that there were said, “Good enough.” more adventures to be had in the uncanny realm of the As for the straight horror aspects, Further. writer/director Jacob Chase proved his workmanlike skills with 2020’s Come While the Lipstick-Faced Demon Play but gets bogged down in the does turn up for a spit and a Insidious universe’s tried-and-tested cough, the Lamberts sit this language of jump scare, jump scare, one out as Out of the Further spooky thing in the background, drags dental hygienist Gemma jump scare, funky lighting and fog, (Amelia Eve, The Haunting of jump scare. There’s one memorable Bly Manor) into the shadowy set piece involving a living room realm. She’s laden down with blanket fortress, but such moments one of the overused tropes are overwhelmed by a combination of horror cinema, the legacy of overly familiar shocks and a huge of a crazed suicidal mother amount of gory scenes involving whose descent into madness mouth play. still haunts her. Not enough to sell the family home that Played out and boring. Mommy Dearest killed herself Rating:6/10

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DESTIN CONRAD - KISSING IN PUBLIC (Official Video)

Alewya - Selah (Official Video)

3am - tango. EDIT

KAYTRANADA - Culture (Audio) ft. Teedra Moses

Jorja Smith - Dancing (Lyric Video)

Adanna Duru - One On One ft. Bas

WATCH OF THE WEEK movie years earlier. Lindelof’s version

LANTERNS

f the words “clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose” have special meaning to you, then the sight of Kyle Chandler sitting on the bleachers next to a football field is going to be very exciting. No, Friday Night Lights isn’t back, but even that familiar tableau is enough to set hearts aflutter. Chandler is one of the most affable actors on screen, even when he’s playing a villain or, in the case of his new role in Lanterns, someone who can be arrogant, sarcastic and not particularly accommodating. The character is Hal Jordan, and if that means nothing to you, it doesn’t matter. Yes, it is part of the DC Comics universe, but no, you don’t need a PhD in superhero lore to get into this. Nor do you need to be into comic book adaptations in general because Lanterns, even with its superpowered tropes (Hal can fly! Hal can create objects with a magic ring!), is a mostly grounded drama that has been sold as DC meets True Detective. That genre meld doesn’t sound as clashy in practice as it does on paper thanks to creators Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof and Tom King. Lindelof is an interesting figure among the trio because he has proven himself adept across many genres on shows including Lost and The Leftovers, but the most instructive previous work for the purposes of this is his 2019 series Watchmen. That, too, was a comic book adaptation, which had a life as a largely derided Zack Snyder

was this incredibly smart parable about race in modern America – and won 11 Emmys in the process.

Lanterns isn’t quite Watchmen, but it is a great show that delivers on mystery, thrills, vibes and considered conversations about ageing, heroism, destiny and race. The series is set primarily in 2016, and Hal is Earth’s first Green Lantern, part of an intergalactic force of cops, essentially. He was a former US Air Force test pilot and had been chosen by the ring. Hal has a trainee in John Stewart (Aaron Pierre), who came to the position not because he was picked by some obscure magic process, but because a group of alien overseers chose him. Hal doesn’t really want John around, and John isn’t that fond of Hal. The pair are sent to a crime scene in Nebraska, where a mass shooting has taken place at a football game in a small town where everyone knows each other, and where its sheriff, Kerry (Kelly Macdonald), is worried that tensions in the town are about to erupt. The reason Hal and Jordan are there is that there are signs the shooting

involves an alien aspect, and it becomes apparent that certain people in town know more than they’re letting on. The reluctant mentor-mentee dynamic is a recognisable trope in both neo-westerns and superhero genres, and Chandler and Pierre have been well cast. Both always play their barely concealed resentment effectively, and there’s a great drama to be mined from two people thrown together despite hating each other's guts. There’s also the question of potentially clashing agendas, which further tests the brittle core of their relationship, already contending with their very different personalities and how they got to be a lantern. Saying more would be getting into spoiler territory, but let’s just say it provokes a lot of questions of how heroes are chosen and moulded. Lanterns is a busy show but has a lot of promise, and anyone who would watch Chandler do anything (football bleachers or not) is already on board. Lanterns is streaming on HBO Max with new episodes weekly