New Post #12

In today this Newsletter

1. All you need to know about Black Culture

2. Gender-Based Violence

3. Trending…..

4. Don’t Kill Yourself!

5. As Seen ONLINE

6. Where the Job at….

All you need to know about Black Culture

Nowadays when you ask an average youth about black culture, all they can say is the music(Afrobeat) and maybe the blacks involved in sport. Meanwhile black culture is way more bigger than that. Entertainment and sport is only a part of it.

We are taught in schools that culture is way of life, then black culture is the way of the black. ranging from the food we eat down to the way we interact.

It is our identification in the bigger world. no matter the country or the language, we always find more than one thing we will always share in common as a black. Black is who we are, Black is what we are. It is a culture so deepen in it roots even the western world seeks to understand us.

well below is a little article on the celebration of Black culture

Title: "From Jollof Wars to Soul Food Sundays: A Celebration of Black Culture at Home and Abroad"

Black culture is a tapestry woven with rich history, vibrant traditions, and a spirit that’s as resilient as it is joyful. Whether you're in Lagos, Nigeria, or in Brooklyn, New York, the essence of Black culture resonates deeply, transcending borders, time zones, and oceans. It's a journey that takes us from the rhythmic beats of African drums to the smooth flow of jazz and hip-hop in Harlem, each thread adding a unique flavor to the story of the Black experience.

• The Art of Gathering: Family, Food, and Festivities

  One thing that unites Black culture both at home in Africa and abroad is the love of a good gathering. Imagine a Sunday afternoon: the aroma of grilled suya wafting through the air in Accra or the sound of Marvin Gaye playing softly at a cookout in Atlanta. The magic here is in the connection—food is more than sustenance; it’s a bridge across generations.

  Consider the great "Jollof Wars" between Nigeria and Ghana. This playful, passionate rivalry over whose rice reigns supreme is a testament to how food plays a crucial role in the African diaspora. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, we have "Soul Food Sundays," where family recipes passed down through generations make their way to the table. Fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese—each dish tells a story of resilience, creativity, and survival.

• Rhythm and Moves: The Universal Language of Music and Dance

  From Afrobeat in Lagos to hip-hop in the Bronx, Black culture is synonymous with rhythm. It's not just about the music; it’s about the movement, the energy, the vibe. You can't listen to Fela Kuti without feeling the urge to dance, just as you can’t watch a breakdancer pop and lock on a Brooklyn street corner without feeling an electric jolt of excitement.

  The beauty here is that music and dance are universal languages. An African drum circle in Nairobi can feel as electrifying as a jazz club in New Orleans. The Azonto dance moves from Ghana can seamlessly blend into the latest TikTok challenge in Compton. It's a reminder that while our experiences may differ, our need to express ourselves through movement and sound is a shared trait across Black communities.

• The Power of Fashion: From Ankara to Streetwear

  Fashion is another powerful aspect of Black culture that showcases our creativity and pride. In Africa, the bold patterns and vibrant colors of Ankara and Kente cloth tell stories of heritage, tribe, and tradition. These fabrics are not just clothing; they're a celebration of identity.

  Across the ocean, in Black American communities, streetwear has become more than just a style—it's a statement. From the iconic Timberland boots to oversized hoodies and snapbacks, streetwear has evolved into a global phenomenon that speaks to the resilience and defiance of Black youth culture. Whether it’s the intricate beadwork of a Maasai warrior or the gold chains of a hip-hop mogul, Black fashion is unapologetically bold and constantly evolving.

• Storytelling and Spirituality: Rooted in Tradition, Embraced by the World

  Storytelling is at the heart of Black culture, passed down orally from griots in West Africa to slam poets in Chicago. It's a means of preserving history, teaching lessons, and building community. It's in the folktales told by grandmothers under the African moonlight and in the spoken-word poetry performed in Los Angeles cafes. These stories carry wisdom, humor, and the weight of generations.

  Spirituality, too, plays a profound role, whether in the form of traditional African religions, Christianity, Islam, or more contemporary practices. The rhythm of a gospel choir in a Black church in Alabama can evoke the same communal spirit as a drumming circle invoking the ancestors in Senegal. It’s about connecting with something greater, finding strength in faith, and building a community that supports and uplifts.

• Unity in Diversity: A Collective Voice

  While the experiences of a Black person in Harlem might differ from those of someone in Johannesburg, there’s an unspoken understanding, a nod of recognition. It's the feeling you get when you hear someone exclaim, “Wakanda Forever!” or see a street artist in Paris sketching the face of Nina Simone. It's in the collective celebration of Black excellence—whether it’s cheering for Serena Williams on the tennis court or reveling in the success of Nigerian cinema, Nollywood.

  Black culture, in all its diversity, is a global phenomenon that continues to inspire, influence, and innovate. It's a culture that’s not just surviving but thriving, turning challenges into triumphs and always moving forward. From the motherland to the diaspora, we are connected through our stories, our struggles, and our celebrations.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Resilience and Joy

Black culture is a testament to the strength, creativity, and beauty of a people who, despite facing unimaginable adversity, continue to rise, innovate, and shine. Whether you're jamming to Afrobeat at a Lagos street party or vibing to hip-hop at a Brooklyn block party, remember this: Black culture is not just a moment; it's a movement—a celebration of life, love, and endless possibilities.

And that’s a culture worth celebrating, every single day.

Gender-Based Violence needs to be stopped.

Where do we even start from?

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive and deeply rooted issue in Nigeria, affecting women and girls across all ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds. This violence manifests in many forms, including domestic abuse, sexual harassment, rape, harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation (FGM), and human trafficking. For many Nigerian women, the home, which should be a place of safety and love, is often a battleground where their very existence is constantly threatened.

Statistics reveal the harrowing reality of gender-based violence in Nigeria. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018, nearly 30% of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence since age 15. More alarming is that 14% of these women have suffered physical violence in the last year alone. Meanwhile, 7% have faced sexual violence, with the actual figures likely much higher due to underreporting. Social stigma, fear of retaliation, and a lack of trust in law enforcement often force survivors into silence.

The consequences of GBV are devastating and multifaceted. Women subjected to violence frequently suffer from physical injuries, psychological trauma, and sexually transmitted infections. Some lose their lives at the hands of their abusers. A study by NOI Polls in 2019 found that one in every three Nigerians knew someone who had been a victim of domestic violence. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this crisis, as lockdown measures trapped many women in abusive homes. Reports indicated a 149% increase in GBV cases during the lockdown period, with Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities experiencing the highest numbers.

Gender-based violence also has severe economic and social implications for the victims and society. Survivors often experience reduced productivity, job loss, and financial instability, trapping them in a vicious cycle of poverty and dependency. A 2019 World Bank report estimated that Nigeria loses about 4.1% of its GDP annually due to the impact of GBV, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

Despite the grim statistics, there is a glimmer of hope. In 2015, Nigeria enacted the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), which criminalizes all forms of GBV and prescribes penalties for offenders. However, implementation remains a significant challenge due to cultural norms, inadequate funding, and a lack of political will. Only 23 of Nigeria's 36 states have domesticated the VAPP Act, leaving millions of women without legal protection.

The fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria requires more than legislation. It demands a collective effort from every corner of society. Communities must break the culture of silence that protects perpetrators. Educational programs need to challenge the societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and violence. Support systems, such as safe shelters and counseling services, must be expanded and adequately funded.

Gender-based violence is not just a "women's issue"; it's a national crisis that affects everyone. Every statistic represents a woman with dreams, aspirations, and the right to live free from fear. It's time to stop counting numbers and start saving lives.

Trending…..

• The #JusticeForChristiana hashtag is currently trending on Nigerian social media, following the tragic murder of Christiana Idowu, a student who was allegedly killed by a male friend, Ayomide Adeleye. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians and celebrities calling for justice.

  Christiana was reportedly abducted and murdered after seeking refuge at Ayomide's home due to bad weather. Ayomide, a student at Olabisi Onabanjo University, allegedly attempted to assault her and, upon her resistance, killed her. He later confessed to the crime and revealed where he had buried her body. The Nigerian Army has since arrested him, and he is being handed over to the police for further investigation. Read More

  Celebrities like Adekunle Gold, Ayra Starr, and Simi have spoken out on social media, urging men to hold each other accountable and advocating for an end to gender-based violence. Adekunle Gold emphasized the need for men to stand against abusive behavior among their peers, while others, such as Ayra Starr, highlighted the ongoing violence against women in Nigeria. Read More

  The case has drawn significant attention to the issue of femicide in Nigeria, with many people expressing frustration over the lack of justice in such cases and calling for immediate action from authorities. Read More

  Here are some of the latest updates from the Nigerian entertainment industry:

  1. Mr. Macaroni at TIFF 2024: Popular Nigerian actor and comedian Mr. Macaroni is leading the Nigerian delegation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024 with the film Freedom Way, which addresses issues like police brutality and corruption. Another film, The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos, in which he plays a significant role, will also premiere at the festival. Read More

  2. DJ Cuppy's Academic Achievement: DJ Cuppy has revealed that she has recently completed another degree, her fourth, from the London School of Economics. This adds to her growing list of academic accomplishments and highlights her dedication to education alongside her music career. Read More

  3. Celebrity Gossip and News: Rumors of pregnancy have surrounded reality TV star Nengi Hampson following a viral video, and Sheila Courage, the ex-wife of Israel DMW, has made headlines with comments directed at Davido. Meanwhile, Seyi Law, a comedian, has spoken out about handling criticism from social media trolls. Read More

  4. Court Case Updates: Socialite Kokozaria, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), has been remanded by the court for allegedly assaulting an actor, while Verydarkman has voiced frustrations over a legal battle involving Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin. Read More

Don’t Kill Yourself!

How to enjoy the weekend:

• Watch This: “All of Us (2024 Series). All of Us is a 2024 Nigerian high school series produced by Nigerian Influencer, Enioluwa Adeoluwa and marks his debut as a movie producer. It was first released to YouTube on 30th, August 2024.^[1] The series written by Emmanuel ‘Mannie’ Oiseomaye and directed by Orire Nwani tells the story of a typical high secondary school life and the drama, friendship, betrayal and everything that ensues.

• Listen to This: “MAFFIAN EP”. Ayo Maff's most recent entry into the music scene this year is the "Maffian" EP. This follows a progression of recently delivered singles that have been generally welcomed by fans and pundits the same. Ayo Maff's standing as a major player in the music industry grows stronger with each release.

  "Maffian" transports you into a realm of musical brilliance as soon as you press play, and you won't be able to resist moving to the infectious beats and rhythms. With this exciting project, Ayo Maff maintains his position as one of the most promising Afrobeat artists on the Nigerian music scene.

• Read This: "Don't Believe Everything You Think: Living with Wisdom and Integrity" by Joseph Nguyen is a thought-provoking book that explores the nature of thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions. Here's a brief summary:

  Nguyen, a spiritual teacher and philosopher, argues that our thoughts and beliefs often distort our understanding of reality, leading to suffering and confusion. He encourages readers to develop a mindful and critical approach to their thinking, recognizing that thoughts are merely fleeting mental constructs, not necessarily reflective of truth. Read this and you will enjoy it!

As seen ONLINE

• Dangote Refinery Launches New Petrol Grade, Suitable For European Market, Speaks on Pricing. Read More

• NNPC yet to lift petrol from Dangote Refinery – Official. Read More

• Calls For Justice: Nigerians React as OOU Student Reportedly Kills FUNAAB’s Christianah Idowu. Read More

• "Service Fully Restored": Nigerian Bank Apologises To Customers After 3 Days of Poor Network. Read More

where the job at …..

• NYSC Graduate Trainee at Vantegral Consulting. Apply Here

• Dataleum is Hiring 🔔 

  1.Customer Success Associate

  2. Programs & Partnership Intern

  3. Operations Intern

  Apply Here

• Human Resources Officer at Bosak Microfinance Bank Ltd. Apply Here

• Data Analyst at ipNX. Apply Here

• Operations Manager, Ikeja, at an Outsourcing Firm. Apply Here

• Human Resources Intern in Logistics Industry. Apply Here

P.S If the job link redirects you to an email, just attach your CV and Cover Letter, and make the job title the title of the email. Goodluck!!

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Best, Faruk Adebayo