CEO of Candy Love Nature Care, Asaruchi Queen Smith, has spoken on why she started the company.
Based in the UK, the firm produces skin care and beauty products using natural ingredients. Started in 2017, the enterprise is taking the centre stage in the provision of safe skincare procedures while also abiding by international best practices.
Asaruchi Queen Smith, who hails from Rivers State, said that the quest to nourish her skin created Candy Love Nature Care, an idea that has transcended borders. Apart from having its headquarters in the UK, it has branches in Port Harcourt and Lagos, with the latter situated in Lekki Phase 1 area of the commercial nerve centre.
Disclosing how it started, Asaruchi Queen Smith stated that after acquiring the required knowledge, she started to produce skincare products for her personal use. But overtime, she transformed it into a full-blown commercial venture, which she supervises by herself.
“It all started from my skin really, I thought it would be an amazing feeling to take control of my health and body after using a few skin care products out there and I could not get the result I wanted. I understood that people’s skin reacts differently to different products but I just wasn’t able to find what was excellent for me.
“One day, the idea just hit me to start trying out with making skin care products for myself. I was convinced that the experience couldn’t go any worse than what I had earlier. I then went ahead to learn a couple of courses and later got a Diploma in skin care,”Asaruchi Queen Smith said.
Asaruchi Queen Smith stated that she was a Youtuber before becoming certified in skincare. Asides referrals and recommendations, the Candy love nature care owner shared patience and understanding characteristics of her clients have played huge roles in the success the company has proudly achieved under seven years. According to her, the trade is a trait she took after her dad.
“I am a patient and understanding person, which all clients know. I handle customers with patients and understanding. My skincare brand is a well known home and aboard. Just to let you know, a few months ago, we opened our Lagos branch in Lekki phase one.
Surprisingly, customers have started patronizing the store. Candy love nature care is a passion for me and also an inheritance from my dad.”
Asaruchi Queen Smith, who is also an expert in nail treatment, pedicure, manicure and spa, shed light on some of the products and their efficacy.
“This Candy love Nature Care set will lighten you up to 5-6 shades in less than 6 months. This is the best selling set from our old and new clients all over the world. One of the base ingredients is collagen, and what does collagen do in your skin? It helps to remove wrinkle and anti-aging, protect you from having stretch marks, and glow your skin,” Asaruchi Queen Smith stated.
Legance in Sustainability. That was the focus of a recent fashion show in Lagos.
The theme centred around showing how elegant sustainable fabrics are and the models set the runway on fire with the latest collection by Osasogie Jane Idemudia, CEO Jane’s fashion.
The inspiration also stemmed from the intersection of vintage and sustainable pieces. It also captured the essence of organic elements through innovative and sustainable materials. ” One standout piece was a gown featuring embellishments, highlighting the designers commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge techniques”.
The runway experience was designed to be immersive, with dynamic lighting and an ethereal soundtrack enhancing the theme.
She added that: “Each show segment represented a different aspect of this concept, from the birth of an idea to its fleeting presence on the runway.”
Idemudia added: “In 2024, I am excited to further push the boundaries of sustainable fashion. Our upcoming collection will showcase a deeper commitment to eco-friendly materials and production processes”.
In addition, the brand will also be exploring augmented reality integration to enhance the customer experience. “Collaborations with local artisans and a focus on inclusive sizing are also on the horizon. The goal is to create beautiful designs and contribute positively to the fashion industry’s social and environmental impact.”
According to the designer, one of the challenges in the sector is the increasing demand for sustainable practices. “While this presents a challenge in sourcing and manufacturing, it’s also a significant opportunity for differentiation. Embracing sustainability aligns with current consumer values and opens doors for partnerships and collaborations with like-minded brands”.
On the flip side, the rapid pace of digital transformation, she said poses a challenge for smaller brands. “Still, it also provides opportunities to reach global audiences through e-commerce and social media.”
Government support, Idemudia believes is crucial for fostering a sustainable and thriving fashion industry. “Policies incentivising environmentally friendly practices, such as tax breaks for sustainable materials or production methods, would go a long way. Additionally, supporting education and training programs for emerging designers, especially in technology and sustainable design, could contribute to the industry’s growth. Fairtrade regulations and ethical labour standards would also ensure a more equitable and responsible fashion ecosystem.”
Khloes Gram is a Nigerian content creator, fashion model, TikToker, dancer, and award-winning social media influencer. The creative lady is known for engaging content which has helped to popularize major brands and music by Nigerian acts.
“I think influencer marketing is a great way for brands to reach new audiences and connect with consumers more personally. But it is important to partner with creators who are a good fit for your brand and can create authentic content that resonates with their audience.”, Khloe said.
Khloe Gram is one of the most successful TikTok influencers in Nigeria. With over 2 million followers, she has built a massive following by creating engaging and creative content. Her content is a mix of comedy, dance, and lifestyle videos. She is also known for her infectious personality and her ability to connect with her audience on a personal level.
In 2022 and 2023 respectively, KhloeGram was awarded the prestigious Pulse TikTok Influencer of the Year award. This award is given to the creator who has made the most significant impact on the platform in the past year.
This win is a testament to the power of influencer marketing on TikTok. She has shown how creators can use the platform to build a large and engaged following and to connect with brands in a meaningful way.
“I love connecting with my audience on TikTok. It’s a platform where I can be myself and have
fun and Tiktok has transformed Influencer Marketing in Nigeria”, she added.
In the last 3 years, TikTok has taken the social media world by storm, becoming one of the most popular platforms for short-form videos. With its vast reach and engaged audience, the platform has become a goldmine for brands looking to connect with consumers through influencer marketing.
Influencer marketing on TikTok involves partnering with creators who have built a following and trust with their audience. These creators can then promote brands or products to their followers in an authentic and relatable way. I’m so grateful for the support of my followers.” She enthuses.
HYGIENIC brand, Dettol, has announced actress, Ini Dima-Okojie, as brand ambassador of relaunched Dettol Skincare. The actress is known for ‘Blood sisters’, ‘Kpali’, and ‘Namaste Wahala’.
Relaunched Dettol Skincare soap has a level of moisturisation, which ensures the skin stays hydrated and healthy.
The actress said: “Dettol has been around for a long time, and I remember using it as a child; it feels like home for me. It is a testament to how much work goes into the brand for it to be here today.
‘‘What I love about the relaunched Dettol Skincare is its gentleness on the skin. It protects against germs and has argan oil and glycerin infusion that moisturises your skin and gives you a 2X moisturising effect…”
Zara Adoki, Category Manager of Dettol sub- Saharan Africa, said: “Ini Dima-Okojie’s elegance, poise, and commitment to skincare align with our brand ethos.
With this partnership, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of good hygiene and skincare practice, while improving the health and wellbeing of our consumers…”
The runway is the main domain for models to express themselves, carve a niche as well as dominate the catwalk in style. Apart from magazine covers, billboards, and other campaigns they are set to make a difference this season.
A recent experience is the Pan African Music Fashion Runway (MFR) which blends contemporary Pan African designers, arts, film and media, international runway models, and cutting-edge fashion with live music excellence.
The 9th edition of the Pan African Music Runway in Lagos was colourful and memorable. The event featured 18 young emerging designers with the theme,” “empowering the creative and corporate mix to align infrastructural development and growth in the creative and entertainment sector.
During the show, over 30 local and international runway models showcased the creativity of the participating designers in an inspiring atmosphere in the presence of style luminaries and fashion devotees, who gathered at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, venue.
The event which was also streamed live via social media platforms opened the pioneering fashion and music platform to a global virtual international audience exceeding 10,000 watching.
The organisers of Pan African Music Runway, NMO Management during the event also recognised and honoured prolific and iconic pioneers in creative industries known as ‘Game Changers’ within the African narrative for their significant contributions.
Recipients at this year’s event include; the president of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Gabriel Idahosa; iconic legendary singer-songwriter Yinka Davies; ICT Fashion Innovation; Malik Afegbua. While Jessica Paul and Philip Owusu emerged as MFR Models of the year 2023.
GBT auditions model search winners for MFR, youth empowerment talent search platform of NMO Management Ltd are Tooki Similoluwa and Al-Amin Oloko.
Speaking on the significance of the show, Ngozi Omambala CEO of NMO management said: “Our priority as always is to produce a first-class event of live music excellence, whilst showcasing the most cutting edge Pan African fashion, established designers and international runway models.”
Omambala, also the chairperson of the Creative and Entertainment Sector of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), noted that the Creative and Entertainment sector has undergone seismic changes to become an absolute force of nature.
In her words: “The growth has been unprecedented, yet its infrastructure development lags exposing weaknesses and vulnerabilities of youth creative seeking to carve out careers without support or protection.
Helen Omowunmi Oduyemi is the CEO of Helen Genius Agro Products Limited and Shealux Limited. In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she takes you into her world, learning from her grandparents who were farmers, Value addition, training and mentoring others, getting grants and support from the Central Bank, and Heritage Bank, and experience in export.
What has been the experience?
Shealux Limited is into value addition, shea butter, and black soap. We make cosmetics from shea butter and black soap, products, and skincare solutions for people using essential oils and herbs. All these are agro-related. For Helen Genius we deal with farm processing, agro-processing, the exportation of Agro produce, and real production. I started in 2016 in Osun state, and people started calling me the lady farmer from Etsaoke. I went into Agriculture because I saw a large gap coming from an agrarian community in Osun state. My grandparents are farmers and I saw that there was no dissemination of information. It was that information that I took to Etsa-oke, no improved seedlings, the framers were not notified. They do garri processing and the way they do the garri processing is not hygienic enough, there is drudgery and the effort that they need to put into it is just crazy. So, I decided that I would keep going there to train them, not thinking that I would be a farmer. I was a scientist. I studied Science Laboratory Technology at Ladoke Akintola University.
What did you do with Science Laboratory Technology (SLT)?
After studying SLT, I went to business school at the Entrepreneurship Development Center (EDC), Lagos, then run by the Central Bank of Nigeria. I went there at Ikeja and did the course and I was inspired. I was able to write Concept notes and Business Plans. So, I felt that instead of looking for a job, I could be doing something with my time. I used to train people before I graduated in vocational skills under the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Oyo state then under Gov Alao Akala. They usually engage me to train villagers in the different zones for women empowerment.
What are some of the things that you were training them then?
I trained the local women hat making, confectionaries, cake making, soaps, and detergents and we segmented them. They will always come to the zonal office and I will be there with other facilitators. Then after school, I went back to Esa oke, my town and I tried to raise other people through vocational skills.
Then I saw the gaps for farmers. Then I said if these people provide the food that people eat then why is it difficult and they cannot afford the basic things in life? Why is it that only a few of them can afford a decent life? Then I saw that gap, the trees that my grandparents planted, people are still using that kind of seedling. People are still using that kind of low-yield seedling input to expect high-yield outputs, which is not possible.
So, I took it upon myself to organise with the king of our town in the palace. I started training people and I went to JDPC in Oyo the Reverend father and one of the members assisted because they saw the passion in me. That time they were doing vitamin A cassava stem under harvest clubs and they made me one of the advocators. At a time they gave me a whole pick-up of Vitamin A Cassava stems. Improved variety and I took it to Osun State. At that time the variety was not in Osun state and that was how I entered Agric fully. When people have one problem or the other they would call me and I started learning more. I did not study agriculture in school.
How did you learn?
I did not go to any agricultural school to learn about agric. I was born into Agric; I am a third-generation agriculturist. The use of herbs and agro-produce is a norm in my family. But improving on it was a challenge that I saw with people. My grandparents were royals, they had money. When they were alive, I did not know that farmers were poor. My grandmother had two 911 that carried oranges, and pineapples to Lagos and neighbouring towns for her. So, I didn’t know that farmers were poor; I used to think farmers were wealthy. I have always been participating in farming from a young age. My dad is an accountant and my mum is a teacher, they didn’t go to the farm. Later my dad after retiring went back to farming. But, I always got tips from my grandparents and I loved to always stay around them. So, every holiday I would follow Grandma to the farm. When I was going home, she would pack so many goodies for me. And there is that bond. She taught me a lot about business.
How many years have you been in farming?
I started in 2016. I registered the first company, Helen Genius Global Services in 2015 and got support from the Central Bank through Heritage Bank, EDP Youth Development Initiative. That was the first support that I got.
What gave you the opportunity?
I went to business school in 2012 and it was sponsored by CBN then. They gave us 3 million naira as a loan for the winners, about 90 of us out of 3000 applicants or more. At a stage, we got to three thousand people and then they had to screen us out till we had 90 people. Then in Osun state, out of the 90 people in Nigeria, I was one of the beneficiaries.
What did that exposure do to your business?
For the first time, I was able to have cash in the first place. I was just doing those things out of passion. My grandparents had died and my parents were just average. And they were not supporting what I was doing because they felt that you have not fed yourself, you are trying to help people. What is the meaning of this nonsense? However, I felt that even if I had the money and everyone around me was poor, then all of us were still poor. But, how do I convince villagers that what they are doing is wrong, when I don’t have proof of concept?
So, Heritage Bank was able to help me to have the cash to prove the concept. To say this is the way, everybody comes and follows. I have gone out to find out and knew that around that time they were rejecting Nigerian garri production, which is value added to cassava. I know that people around us in Ekiti state plant Cassava, but not as much as in Oyo state. So, when I got this fund, we bought stainless steel machines. So that whatever produce we have would be exportable.
We had challenges along the line but it was a good start. In a day in that factory, we could have like 10 people working. These were women who on a good day may not know where to go. It was standard and with that, we got a grant support from World Bank under GEM in 2018. That was 11 million naira support and our community started supplying wood. We wanted to have our station where we could generate power and run green energy. So, we started the bioproduction and that was where that project had to stop.
Looking back to when you started and now, what has changed?
When I started, I did not have enough information. I only had passion. I did not have any structure. If I am not there nothing works. My level of knowledge was low compared to now. I now have more resilience that no matter what happens n, things can always get better. And if we give it all it takes, it will be successful. I now know that my concepts are doable, they are achievable, they are replicable. Whatever we do in Osun state, we are replicating in Oyo state and can always diversify. I was not thinking of planting anything when I started. I just wanted to help other farmers. But over time, I saw a lot of lapses and realized that if we were going to prove this to people, you would have to do it first and let them see it. In 2019, we saw our cluster planting cotton, we tried some places with our hand and another with a hand pusher and saw the different outputs. So, we want all of them planting different things to be able to use a planter and not their hand. The hand would not give the actual plant population that is required to bring profit. No, I can create the economics of production for a particular crop before going to farm at all. Also, with herbs and other things that we have access to, I can map out a farm with the drone that we are now using. So, you can be sure that if you are planting on one hectare, it is one acre that you are using; sometimes the surveyor may not be accurate. In the past, you could put an input of 5 hectares on land that is 3 and a half acres. It happened to us at Onifufu village in Ibadan in 2019. When we brought the drone there, we found that what they told us they had measured was not the actual digital space that we had. That was a loss on its own. So, the information that we have now is way far better.
I have older not younger people that I am mentoring. In my circle, most times I am always the youngest. Most times, the people who are serious with life most times are above 40. In cosmetics, the Nigeria Export Promotion Council just recently gave us a hand of collaboration to mentor people into value addition of all these organic natural cosmetics for exports. We export palm oil, shea butter, and peeled beans. People send their requests for different foods, I do only agro products. The cosmetics we do are like food to the skin. From shea butter, mango butter, and cocoa butter Mango has butter inside the seed, which helps the skin to glow, for anti-aging. I keep learning and from SheTrades I can say that the transformation that I have had so far, 60 percent is because I am with SheTrades. They have trained us consistently and when you apply these things to your business, you discover that there is a whole lot inside of you to explore.
SmithCLOTHIER, a fashion brand founded by the creative director Osazuwa Smith Oshodin, has just introduced The Potter Collection, featuring ensembles that speak softly yet deliberately in a fashion world often defined by excess. Known for his clean construction and disciplined aesthetic, Osazuwa Smith brings to life a body of work that values purpose over noise.
With The Potter Collection, he presents three distinct yet harmonious expressions of the modern muse — each look telling a story of grace, strength, and refined identity.
The result is a collection where structure leads, patterns resonate, and each piece embodies quiet confidence.
The Floral Dress; a piece from the collection is a vibrant celebration of femininity and self-expression. This statement piece features bold Ankara floral prints in an off-shoulder silhouette, complemented by dramatic sleeves that balance structure with movement. Regal yet effortless, the look embodies modern African glamour — deeply rooted in tradition but styled for today’s confident woman.
Another interesting piece is The Kasosa Set, a striking interpretation of power dressing. It comprises of a wide-leg black trousers paired with a cinched high-waist blouse, creating a sleek all-black ensemble that exudes confidence. The flared sleeves echoed the trousers’ shape, producing visual harmony, while the monochrome palette reinforced the timeless appeal of black-on-black fashion.
The Royal Crepe is another chic ensemble from The Potter Collection where understated elegance meets a whisper of royalty. A sleek, monochrome base of a fitted black top and flared trousers is paired with a soft white longline coat adorned with delicate gold embroidery along the lapel. The result is a look that is refined yet approachable, with a clean silhouette elevated by just the right touch of embellishment.
The Potter Collection is not just a title—it’s a mission statement. It’s about reviving a sense of richness, bringing back the slow beauty of fashion that isn’t mass-produced but hand-touched, heart-driven. Through his work, Osazuwa Smith Oshodin reaffirms his deep understanding of timeless women’s fashion, delivering designs that are as personal and refined as they are versatile.
In an industry hungry for authenticity and evolution, this fashion designer stands as a leader who offers both and in doing so, shapes the future of global couture.
African fashion brand, Ashluxe, recently set the stage ablaze with an iconic fashion show, showcasing its groundbreaking collaboration with the estate of the legendary Fela Kuti.
The historic event, which held in Lagos, blended glamour, artistry, and musical brilliance in an unforgettable celebration of culture and creativity.
The focal point of the evening was the unveiling of Ashluxe’s revolutionary collection, “Kalakuta Republic,” paying homage to the indomitable spirit of Fela Kuti and the profound legacy of Kalakuta Republic.
The collection embodies the vibrancy of Afrobeat, merging cultural elements with avant-garde fashion, echoing Fela’s fervor for African unity and resistance against oppression.
Partnering officially with Fela’s estate marks a momentous stride for Ashluxe, becoming the first African fashion brand licensed to showcase Fela’s images.
This collaboration symbolises more than mere fashion; it signifies a shared commitment to perpetuating Fela’s powerful messages of freedom and self-expression across borders.
Yinka Ash, the visionary founder of Ashluxe, expressed profound reverence for Fela’s legacy, stating, “Ashluxe strives to emulate Fela’s ideals through fashion, advocating African pride, unity, and creativity as instruments of change.
According to Ash, the ‘Kalakuta Republic’ collection embodies Fela’s spirit, delivering a vibrant tapestry of culture and style.
With the “Kalakuta Republic” collection, Ashluxe pays homage to the indomitable spirit of creative expression.
Drawing inspiration from the life and times of legendary musician Fela Kuti, the new line features Ashluxe’s signature blend of colourful prints and avant-garde silhouettes.
The fashion show witnessed a fusion of artistry and entertainment, featuring a dazzling display of Ashluxe’s innovative designs alongside the electrifying performance of Made Kuti, grandson of Fela Kuti.
Notable guests such as Omoyemi Akerele graced the occasion, underscoring the monumental significance of this collaboration in the fashion industry.
When it comes to fashion, Nigerian singer and songwriter Waje is a force to be reckoned with.
Her sense of style is bold, dynamic, and always on-trend. Whether she’s on stage or on the red carpet. Waje knows how to make a statement with her fashion choices.
Waje’s hairstyles are always fashion-forward and on point. She often sports braids or twists, which add a touch of glamour and elegance to her look. In addition to her bold and experimental personal style, Waje is also known for her love of African print clothing. She often
rocks vibrant Ankara print dresses, skirts, and blouses, which showcase her love for her Nigerian heritage.
Waje is an advocate for the African fashion industry, and her style reflects that passion.
Another thing that sets Waje apart is her commitment to body positivity and self-love. Waje’s makeup is also always on point, with a focus on bold eyes and lips. She’s not afraid to experiment with colors and trends, and she often goes for a dramatic and glamorous look.
As for her accessories, Waje loves statement pieces. Whether it’s a bold necklace, a unique belt, or a pair of eye-catching earrings, Waje always knows how to make a statement with her accessories.
She loves African print clothing, statement accessories, and vibrant colors. Her style is always evolving and changing, but her commitment to self-love and African fashion remains constant. Waje is usually not afraid to show off her curves, and she often speaks out about the importance of loving yourself just the way you are.
Her fashion choices reflect this, and she often rocks outfits that celebrate her body and showcase her curves. Waje is a role model for body positivity and self-love, and her message is clear: you are beautiful just the way you are.
Olabisi Saunders is a fashion designer and CEO of O’ Saunders collection. You run into her at a recent exhibition of her latest collection titled Metamorphose in Lagos. In this encounter with AISHA ADEBAYO, she takes you into her world.
Tell us about your latest collection. One thing I would say is that I have been consistent, I have not lost my style from the onset. My unique style uses painting with massive sleeves. Now, I use more colors than before. In the past the brand was known for white only but now we metamorphosed from the lava stage to a full-grown butterfly.
What makes the painting on your fabrics unique?
It takes a lot of financial responsibility, a lot of hard work, and sleepless nights. One thing about painting in pieces is that you cannot paint the back and front at the same times. Also, you have to cut paint before sewing and sometimes you sew before you paint the fabrics. It actually depends on the style of the outfit that you want to sew or paint. It hasn’t been easy but these are pieces that are unique for those who can appreciate the efforts that we put into it.
If you don’t sell, how do you recover your money?
That is one thing about doing a collection. Sometimes, you do things you know maybe people might like or maybe people might not like but at the same time, you will not let go. I am not a designer who will just wake up and say ok I have this or I have that. When you look at all my collection at a glance, you can tell that they are beautiful, that is one thing that makes the brand unique.
What inspired your designs?
Life, arts, painting, and nature.
Who are your targets?
You will have to be very free, athletic, and very confident. Some of the pieces actually make people confident. But, the crux of the matter is that the personality also matters. Sometimes, you can put the same pieces on two different people, this one will look better on one than the other.
Who is the O’Saunders woman?
The O’Saunders woman must be confident and willing to take risks because my clothes are all about risk. Not everybody will say this sleeve is massive.
Some of my sleeves are like 2 yards of fabric just on one sleeve, so you will have to be able to take risks to wear my clothes. It is wonderful and nice to wear and you can wear it everywhere you go. My clothes are unisex, especially the warm jacket and kaftans.
Do you also produce accessories?
The funny part is that I started with accessories at the beginning. One thing about my brand is that I have a passion for it. The accessories I do are made of leather. I have canceled an order of 20 bags just because the lady didn’t do it right. So that is one thing about me I need to make sure my products are good from the lining to the fabrics. Everything you see is leather. 100% leather
Is there a reason for you to invest in accessories?
Yes, I love them. I’m obsessed with bags and shoes. You can tell someone’s character or personality by their shoes and handbags.
What are the challenges?
There are a lot of challenges in the sector. Firstly, the personnel is a big challenge, your tailors sometimes drive you nuts. So, I have to do it myself, especially when two or three of them have an emergency at the same time.
How do you start designing?
My mum, I started with my mum. I grew up in a home where my mum was a fashion designer and I went to fashion school in Ghana. I also have a degree in fashion design.
