Having sound financial habits, controlled spending, and cautious preparation are all necessary to make your salary last until your next paycheck.
Many people experience the same thing every month: they get paid, feel like bosses, and then unpredictably find themselves broke before their next paycheck.
Here are the eight ways to avoid going broke before payday:
1. Be disciplined
None of this can be achieved without major discipline. It’s exactly what you need if you really want to avoid going broke before your next salary.
2. Figure out what you spend your money on
First, make a list of your monthly expenses. Start with your necessities like transport, food, bills (water, light e.t.c). Figure out exactly how much you need for your expenses and whats left of your salary.
3. Divide your money
After sorting your budget, the next thing you should do is to separate your cash. Put the money you need for your budget with a little ‘jara’ for fun stuff in one account and the remaining should go into your savings or emergency funds account.
Rather than feeling like you’re a slave to your wage, challenge yourself to earn your spending money away from your wage. This might be from a side hustle, tutoring, dog walking, Uber driving, doing surveys online, consulting, selling products at the local markets and so much more.
5. Make a budget
Once you know what you need money for, the next thing is to make a budget for the month. This budget should cover all your necessities.
6. Stop carrying your card around
In order to stick to your budget, you have to stop carrying your card around. Leave it at home and only take the exact amount of money you need when you go out. You can have a little extra for emergencies but don’t take your card with you.
7. Avoid debt and pay off existing debts
If you’re carrying debt, try to pay it off as quickly as possible. Avoid taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary. Interest payments on credit card debt or loans can significantly reduce the money you have available each month.
8. Use cash
When you use cash instead of ATM, you’re more likely to stick to your budget because you can physically see the money leaving your hands. If you tend to overspend when using an ATM card, try switching to cash for your everyday purchases.
Social media space is rife with misinformation and unverified information about the possibility of CNG cars, trucks, vehicles exploding thereby raising safety concerns among vehicle owners who are considering CNG conversion, ALAO ABIODUN writes.
VERDICT: CNG vehicles run on natural gas, which is odourless. It should not be confused with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is popularly called “cooking gas”.
CNG cylinder is thick enough to withstand the pressure of what it contains. Although a cylinder can explode, such occurrences are rare with CNG and typically result from specific conditions.
Experts have allayed the fear of possible explosion, stressing that the CNG cylinder is thick enough to withstand the pressure of what it contains.
Introduction
Compressed natural gas (CNG) is an environmentally beneficial alternative to petrol. CNG has non-toxic components that do not pollute nature and groundwater.
This special feature makes it better and more environmentally friendly than petrol and diesel. It is made by compressing natural gas, methane, to less than 1% of its original volume.
Once converted, a vehicle can switch between CNG and petrol or diesel. The switch occurs after the engine starts, with two key modalities in the Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
A few months ago, President Bola Tinubu announced that all government ministries, departments, and agencies should only acquire vehicles powered by compressed natural gas (CNG).
This directive is part of the administration’s plan to make the country more energy-efficient and less reliant on petrol.
To achieve this gas transition objective, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, directed Nigeria Customs Service to immediately apply a zero percent duty on CNG, LPG, CNG equipment components, conversion and installation services, LPG equipment components, conversion and installation services, and all equipment and infrastructure related to the expansion of LPG and the Presidential CNG Initiative, including conversion kits.
Natural gas, rather than diesel or petrol, helps to minimise small soot particles that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems. CNG emits far fewer hydrocarbon emissions than LPG, petrol, or diesel.
Because CNG cars use clean fuel, they have a healthier engine. When using CNG, the spark plugs and converters remain in good condition. As a result, CNG provides a more efficient engine by reducing carbon deposits during combustion.
Findings
Findings by our correspondent revealed that, unlike petrol vehicles, CNG vehicles run on natural gas, which is odourless.
However, CNG should not be confused with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is popularly called “cooking gas” and is stored in cylinders that are normally used for domestics.
Although CNG is a byproduct of crude oil production just like petroleum and diesel, it is considered safer for the environment.
According to Central U.P. Gas Limited, an Indian-based company, their usage considerably lowers the release of harmful gasses such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide which contribute to carbon emissions. Compared to petrol vehicles, the carbon emissions released by CNG vehicles are 5 to 10% lower.
The Chief Executive Officer of Operation at Zeta Power Limited, Kyriakos Schizas allayed the fear of possible explosion, stressing that the CNG cylinder is thick enough to withstand the pressure of what it contains.
Although a cylinder can explode, but such occurrences are rare and typically result from specific conditions.
Here are some key points to consider:
Pressure and Design: CNG cylinders are designed to withstand high pressures (typically around 3,000 to 3,600 psi). They are constructed from strong materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety.
Overpressure: An explosion can occur if the cylinder is subjected to extreme heat, causing the gas inside to expand and increase pressure beyond the cylinder’s capacity. This is why CNG cylinders should never be exposed to direct flames or extreme temperatures.
Physical Damage: If a cylinder is damaged (e.g., through impact or corrosion), it can compromise the structural integrity, which may lead to failure and potentially an explosion.
Improper Handling: CNG cylinders must be handled and stored according to safety regulations. Improper handling or maintenance can increase the risk of leaks or ruptures.
Safety Features: Modern CNG cylinders are equipped with safety features, such as pressure relief valves, to prevent catastrophic failures. While a CNG cylinder can explode under certain conditions, it should be noted that proper design, handling, and maintenance significantly reduce this risk.
Tips to maintain your CNG Car:
Replace your spark plugs with CNG-compatible ones
Because they are responsible for fuel combustion, spark plugs are one of the most crucial components of an engine. Make sure you replace your spark plugs with CNG-compatible ones when installing a CNG kit. If you can’t find CNG-compatible spark plugs, you’ll have to narrow the distance between the spark source and the spark plug’s metal tip.
Unauthorized CNG kits must be avoided
Modern CNG automobiles come with factory-installed CNG kits, and it’s always preferable to buy a CNG car with a CNG kit already installed. However, the majority of individuals attempt to convert their petrol cars to CNG cars, and in the process, they wind up having a local mechanic install a CNG kit. Avoid using local dealers or mechanics to install CNG kits because this could result in leaks or damage to the car’s mechanicals.
Regular checks
Check the cylinder and fuel lines for leaks or damage regularly if you own a CNG vehicle. Overfilling the cylinder should also be avoided, as this can result in gas leaks.
CNG leakage can be deadly because it can result in an explosion. As a result, you should inspect the cylinder for symptoms of damage or leaks regularly, and if necessary, have the CNG kit serviced by a qualified technician.
Conclusion
There is a need for intensified public sensitisation on the benefits of CNG as compared to petrol.
The popular misconception that the gas used to power vehicles is the same as the one used in kitchens should be dismissed.
Switching to compressed natural gas will not only help car owners save money but also contribute to a more sustainable environment.
CNG cylinders are made of reinforced materials designed to withstand extreme conditions, far more robust than traditional fuel tanks.
The safety features of CNG systems, including pressure release valves and automatic shut-off sensors, ensure safety in case of leaks or irregularities.
While the worlds of entertainment and politics may appear distinct, several Nigerian actors have successfully bridged the gap for the greater good.
When we think of Nigerian actors, we often envision their talents in blockbuster films.
However, a growing number have embraced a new challenge, politics. These individuals are leveraging their fame to make a positive impact in their communities and drive much-needed change.
Nigerian actors are increasingly stepping into political roles, using their influence to promote good governance and address pressing community issues.
This trend reflects a commitment to public service and highlights the importance of youth involvement in governance, which has sparked a significant shift in the Nigerian political landscape.
This transformation is especially evident in the entertainment industry, where many celebrities are now actively pursuing political careers, with some achieving success as candidates.
Below are five Nigerian actors who have joined the political landscape:
1. Desmond Elliot: A prominent Nollywood actor, Desmond Elliot transitioned into politics in 2015, winning a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing the Surulere Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He has focused on youth empowerment and community development during his tenure, which has included a recent unopposed re-election in 2023.
Desmond Elliott
2. Kenneth Okonkwo: Known for his role in the classic film ‘Living in Bondage’, Kenneth Okonkwo has become a significant political figure, serving as the spokesperson for the Labour Party during Peter Obi’s presidential campaign in 2023. His legal background complements his advocacy for social justice.
3. Olubankole Wellington (Banky W): A celebrated singer and actor, Banky W entered politics by contesting for a House of Representatives seat in Lagos in 2019. He aligned with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for his 2023 campaign, but eventually lost the election.
Banky W
4. Funke Akindele: A well-known actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele contested as Lagos Deputy Governor under the PDP in 2022.
5. Olumide Oworu: The model has joined the political scene, contributing to the rising number of politically engaged young people in Nigeria. At just 28 years old, Oworu ran for a seat in the Lagos State House of Representatives for the Surulere Constituency 1, representing the Labour Party (LP).
Oworu however lost the election to his senior colleague in the movie industry, Desmond Elliot, who has held the position for the past eight years.
In Nigeria, we understand how much we love food especially our native dishes. Food is very essential and it is part of the basic needs of a man.
Below are some of the top five food content creators in Nigeria who have developed and shared a lot of recipes and taught us how we can get better with our meal preparation.
DIARY OF A KITCHEN LOVER
DIARY OF A KITCHEN LOVER
Omotolani Tayo Osikoya, Chef T popularly known as Diary of a kitchen lover is a certified culinary expert, food blogger, entrepreneur, recipe developer and a food tutor. She has about 1.8million followers on Instagram and 195,000 subscribers on YouTube.
According to her, she has been cooking since she was 8 and the first meal she ever prepared was fried rice. She learnt the basics from her mum and has been keeping up with food trends.
Her career in food content creation started when she got married and moved in fully with her husband. In a bid to find interesting ways for her husband to look forward to meal time, she cooked delicious meals, shared the recipes on her Instagram page and some of her viewers started making beautiful comments, also asking her to share the recipes.
On the 3rd of February, 2018, Chef T opened a food blog on Instagram named “Diary of a kitchen lover” and the page started to grow. Even though she studied accounting in Babcock University, she has passion for cooking and it is glaring that she is good at what she does.
Over time, Chef T has inspired both genders through her recipes, kitchen hygiene, kitchen organization, cookwares and equipments. She is so passionate about kitchen aesthetics and this could be seen in the way her kitchen looks so colorful, inviting and conducive for cooking delicious meals.
Due to the fact that she’s so passionate about exploring various food recipes, she has a certification in the prestigious Italian Chef Academy in Rome, Italy. She has also featured on the 50 most impactful voices with other great female contemporaries for international women’s day.
Recently, she had an opportunity of interviewing the renowned Bill Gates on general nutrition, specifically nutrition in pregnant women and she is the brand ambassador of the Nigeria’s number one dish wash brand, Morning Fresh.
SISI YEMMIE
SISI YEMMIE
Yemisi Sophie Odusanya popularly known as Sisi Yemmie is a Nigerian food and lifestyle blogger, entrepreneur, author and also the online editor of Cosmopolitan Nigeria. She has over 1million subscribers on YouTube and 347,000 followers on Instagram.
Sisi Yemmie is a mother of five who shares content on food, parenting and lifestyle. She has authored cook books, food time tables and so on. She also has another page on Instagram named ‘Little bigteco’ where she creates and shares contents on kids meal, lunch box ideas and back to school recipes.
She is a graduate of Mass communication from Igbinedion University, she has a Masters Degree in International Diplomacy from the University of Birmingham and Diploma in Internal communications from PR Academy, London.
Sisi Yemmie was listed as a top female Nigerian YouTuber in December, 2020 and also won the City people entertainment award of the blogger of the year twice, 2014 and 2015.
HILDA BACI
HILDA BACI
Hilda Bassey Effiong is a Food content creator, Actress and a Nigerian Chef. She is the former holder of the Guinness world record for marathon cooking(cook-a-thon), she broke the record at exactly 7:45am on the 15th of May, 2023 with 93 hours, 11 minutes. She has close to 3 million followers on Instagram.
She hails from Akwa Ibom and has her first degree in Sociology from Madonna University, Okija, Anambra. She started her career as a professional cook after her education by preparing meals for family and friends which motivated her to start her catering business.
Her mother’s cooking methods served as an inspiration for her love for cooking. Hilda Bacci is really passionate about teaching others about cooking and she has organized several cooking classes, workshops to teach people how to cook healthy and delicious meals.
Her recipes have been published in various cookbooks, she has hosted cooking shows on various TV platforms, won several awards which includes the Jollof faceoff competition in August, 2021.
Apart from the fact that she is an advocate of healthy eating, she is also the CEO and head cook of her brand, “My food by Hilda”, a fast food restaurant which she opened in June, 2022 and it has catered to a large number of customers.
IFY’S KITCHEN
IFY’S KITCHEN
Ifeyinwa Mogekwu popularly known as Ify’s kitchen is a multi award winning culinary expert, a TV cooking show host, an entrepreneur, a YouTuber and a lawyer who has over 2 million followers on Instagram and over 690,000 subscribers on YouTube. She offers food consulting services and online cookery classes.
She was part of the judges of the first edition of the Eko flavors culinary competition. Ify is a lawyer who practiced as a corporate lawyer in ACAS law, one of the top law firms in Lagos even though she has resigned in 2021 to focus fully on her culinary passions after practicing for over a decade.
Ify developed interest in cooking since her secondary school days when she made the tastiest jollof rice during a practical. She is a graduate of Law from the prestigious university of Ibadan who has also participated in several cooking competitions both on social media and television.
She believes in simplicity and quality. Her top kitchen rules are safety and hygiene and this is evident in the way her kitchen is always clean and organized. Her easy to follow recipes and innovative dishes have propelled her to celebrity status.
ZEELICIOUS FOODS
ZEELICIOUS FOODS
Winifred Nwania also known as Zeelicious foods is a food recipe and consultant, a cooking show host, a healthy living advocate, an author and a nutritionist in training. She has over 1million subscribers on YouTube and 753,000 followers on Instagram.
Winifred is passionate about cooking and she made jollof rice for the very first time at the age of 12. She graduated from the University of Lagos in 2013 and landed a high paying job in an oil and gas firm in Lagos but because of her love for cooking, she resigned in May, 2017 and started YouTube, she reached about 50,000 subscribers after six months.
While she was still working,she used to create recipes and post, in 2015, one of the recipe blog posts went viral and she got invited to a cooking contest in Lagos and in 2016, the publicity gave her the opportunity to host a show on Loveworld TV.
In 2020, she founded Lush Treats which caters to individual food needs, social functions and corporate events. In March 2022, she released her cook book, “Winnie’s sizzling selections” which includes plant based, low carbohydrates and detox recipes. She also became the brand ambassador of Coca-cola and Knor.
Winifred doesn’t just create recipes, she showcases Nigerian and African inspired foods to the world with style and elegance. Her brand became a fast growing culinary brand with an audience cutting across three continents.
It is very important for pregnant women to be cautious about what goes into their bodies as it largely affects the growth and development of the foetus both positively and negatively.
Generally, fruits supplies nutrients and also provides healthy vitamins in the body but because of how delicate pregnant women are, there are some fruits that should be totally avoided or the intake should be greatly reduced during the season of pregnancy, such fruits are;
PAPAYA
Pregnant women should avoid raw or semi ripe papaya because it containers latex that can induce premature contractions which is very dangerous for the baby. The ripe papaya is pretty safe because it contains latex in lower amount but the unripe ones contains higher latex. Unripe papaya also contains an enzyme called papain which can also trigger early uterine contractions.
PINEAPPLE
Pineapple contains certain enzymes that alter the texture of cervix which could also induce premature contractions or even lead to miscarriage. It can be taken in small portions but should be avoided especially during the first trimester. Pineapple also contains bromelain that can cause the cervix to soften and result in early labor if eaten in large quantities, bromelain can also lead to irregular bleed.
GRAPE
Grapes are not recommended for pregnant women at all especially during their final trimester. It generates heat in the body which is not good for both mother and the child, it should therefore be avoided for the sake of complications.
It also contains resveratrol, a toxic compound that could elevate hormonal imbalance, cause poisoning or other pregnancy complications.
BANANA
Bananas are healthy but should be avoided if the pregnant woman has allergies or gestational diabetes. It contains chitinase, a latex like substance that can trigger allergic reactions. Also,it is high in sugar and can raise blood sugar levels.
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is known for its rich culture and diversity. Recently, Nigerian innovators have been gaining international recognition for their groundbreaking work in various fields. These trailblazers, who come from sectors like technology, healthcare, finance, and education, show that Nigeria’s talent has no limits.
Here are eight Nigerian innovators making waves globally you should know
1. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Tech)
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji is a well-known entrepreneur who has made a big impact on Africa’s technology scene. He helped start Andela, a company that trains African software developers and connects them with jobs around the world.
Aboyeji co-founded Flutterwave, a payment platform that makes it easier for businesses in Africa to manage their transactions. Through these projects, Aboyeji continues to play a key role in boosting Africa’s presence in the tech industry.
2. Silas Adekunle (Robotics)
At just 26 years old, Silas Adekunle gained worldwide attention by creating Mekamon, the world’s first gaming robot. He developed it through his company, Reach Robotics. Adekunle’s skills in robotics, along with his creativity, brought a new type of gaming that mixes augmented reality (AR) with real-life robots. His invention has opened up exciting possibilities in the gaming world, making him a standout figure in technology.
Silas Adekunle’s groundbreaking work in robotics grabbed the attention of major companies, including Apple, which started selling his robots in their stores. Since then, Adekunle has continued to lead in the robotics field, using his knowledge to mentor and inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators. His influence keeps growing as he helps shape the future of technology.
3. Temie Giwa-Tubosun (Health tech)
Temie Giwa-Tubosun is a Nigerian-American health manager, born in December 1985, she founded LifeBank, a company that uses technology to deliver blood and other important medical supplies to hospitals in Nigeria.
LifeBank has grown to serve other African countries as well, helping to save thousands of lives during emergencies. Giwa-Tubosun’s efforts are making a big difference in healthcare across the continent.
Temie Giwa-Tubosun’s work has earned her international praise, including being named on BBC’s 100 Women and TIME’s Next 100 List. She is a great example of how technology can solve real-world problems. Her efforts through LifeBank continue to save lives and inspire people around the world.
4. Tope Awotona (Software & E-commerce)
Tope Awotona is a Nigerian born Software developer, he founded Calendly in 2013 after being frustrated by the difficulty of scheduling meetings across different time zones. Today, Calendly is one of the most popular scheduling tools worldwide, used by businesses and professionals everywhere. Under Awotona’s leadership, the company has grown into a multi-million-dollar business, making it easier for people to organize meetings and manage their time.
5. Omobola Johnson (Technology & Digital Infrastructure)
As Nigeria’s former Minister of Communication Technology, Omobola Johnson played a key role in developing the country’s IT and telecom sectors. Now, she is a partner at TLcom Capital, a venture capital firm that supports tech startups across Africa. Through TLcom, Johnson helps the next generation of tech innovators by giving them the funding and guidance they need to grow their businesses. Her leadership has been central to Nigeria’s digital transformation, and her work continues to drive innovation across the continent.
6. John O. Dabiri (Science & Engineering)
John Dabiri, a Nigerian-American professor of Aeronautics and Bioengineering at Caltech, is known for his research in fluid dynamics and energy efficiency.
By studying how jellyfish move, Dabiri has found new ways to improve engineering, especially in designing wind turbines for renewable energy.
His innovative work has earned him global recognition, including being named on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. Dabiri’s research is not only groundbreaking in the academic world but also helps tackle real-world energy challenges.
7. Dr. Wendy A. Okolo (NASA Aerospace Engineer)
Wendy Okolo made history by becoming the first Black woman to earn a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington. Now working at NASA, she specializes in flight dynamics, vehicle controls, and systems health monitoring. Okolo’s groundbreaking work has made her one of the leading experts in aerospace engineering, and she continues to inspire many in the field.
8. Jason Njoku (Co-founder of iROKOtv)
Jason Njoku is a pioneer in African digital entertainment. He co-founded iROKOtv, an online platform often called the “Netflix of Nollywood.” iROKOtv distributes Nollywood films to audiences around the world and has played a major role in popularizing African films globally. Njoku’s innovative approach has changed how African content is shared, making it accessible to a larger international audience.
Maintaining a normal blood pressure level is crucial for overall health, with a reading typically not above 120/80 mmHg considered normal.
However, blood pressure readings consistently exceeding 130/80 mmHg can indicate hypertension, where the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. If left unchecked, high blood pressure can lead to chronic diseases, making it essential to take control.
One of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure is through dietary choices.
Here are some healthy foods that can help you manage your blood pressure:
1. Bananas:
Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, bananas can help lower blood pressure. A medium-sized banana contains about 375 milligrams of potassium, contributing to improved cardiovascular health.
2. Blueberries:
Packed with anthocyanins—plant pigments that promote heart health—blueberries can help reduce the production of molecules that restrict blood flow. They also contain resveratrol, a compound known to relax blood vessels.
3. Dark Chocolate:
High in flavonoid cacao, dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant that helps dilate blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure.
4. Nuts:
Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, are rich in magnesium and potassium, which have been shown to reduce blood pressure. Additionally, their fiber and healthy fat content helps regulate cholesterol levels, further supporting heart health.
5. Spices:
Reducing salt intake is vital for managing blood pressure. Instead, season your meals with herbs and spices like basil, thyme, cinnamon, turmeric, chili powder, and onion powder. These not only enhance flavor but also promote heart health.
Incorporating these foods into your diet can play a significant role in controlling blood pressure and enhancing overall cardiovascular health.
Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, Threads, and email serve as interactive media that enable users to create, share content, and connect with others worldwide.
While social media has its drawbacks, its importance in the modern business landscape is undeniable, particularly for brand growth.
Here are several ways social media contributes to the expansion of brands and businesses:
1. Enhanced Reach:
Social media broadens the clientele of businesses by allowing them to connect with a global audience. When content about your business is created and shared across various platforms, it reaches viewers beyond the local community, increasing your customer base both nationally and internationally.
Social media simplifies market research through various tools. This is especially beneficial for new businesses, as it helps them understand their industry, analyze competitors, and develop effective strategies tailored to their specific needs.
3. Identifying and Reaching Target Audience:
Every business has a target audience, and social media makes it easier to connect with these specific groups. For instance, a brand selling corporate attire would primarily target working professionals. By leveraging social media, businesses can efficiently reach and engage with their desired audience.
4. Encouraging Feedback and Engagement:
As an interactive platform, social media facilitates two-way communication, allowing businesses to receive feedback from clients. This feedback is crucial for assessing customer satisfaction and identifying areas for improvement. Through reviews and suggestions, businesses can correct mistakes and generate new ideas, ultimately fostering growth.
5. Proactive Thinking:
Social media keeps brands informed about new industry trends, enabling them to adapt and remain competitive. By staying updated, businesses can think proactively and even lead trends within their sector.
6. Crisis Management and Damage Control
Social media allows for direct interaction with customers, enhancing customer service. In the event of complaints or crises, businesses can quickly address issues through social media, helping to manage their reputation and control any potential damage.
While social media presents some challenges, its role in the growth of brands and businesses is significant. By harnessing its power effectively, businesses can enhance their reach, engage with customers, and navigate the dynamic marketplace.
Work visas without the need for a job offer allow you to enter a country, seek employment, and build professional connections without having secured a position beforehand.
Before considering the countries that provide these opportunities, it’s important to gather the required documents.
Typically, you’ll need a valid passport, proof of education and financial stability, health insurance, relevant qualifications or work experience, a travel itinerary, and potentially a motivation letter.
Having these documents strengthens your application, enabling you to explore job prospects and possibly secure long-term residency.
According to the DAAD scholarship, here is a list of countries that offer visas for job seekers without a pre-existing job offer.
1. Germany — Job seeker visa
Germany’s job seeker visa is designed for skilled individuals seeking employment within the country, allowing them to stay for up to six months while job hunting. Eligibility criteria include having a degree recognized in Germany or qualifications relevant to high-demand occupations. Additionally, applicants must show proof of financial means to support themselves during their stay. If a job is secured, the visa can be converted into a work permit, facilitating long-term residency.
2. Portugal — Job seeker visa
Portugal offers a job seeker visa, providing up to 12 months for individuals to search for employment. The visa targets skilled professionals with qualifications or experience in industries facing labour shortages. Financial proof is required to demonstrate that the applicant can sustain themselves during the job search. Once employment is secured, it becomes easier to transition to a work visa.
3. Czech Republic — Long-term visa for job seeking
The Czech Republic provides a long-term visa for job seekers, which allows individuals to stay in the country for six to 12 months while looking for a job. Applicants must have qualifications or skills in demand, along with financial resources to support their stay. The country’s growing tech and manufacturing sectors offer promising employment prospects. This visa is also an entry point to other European Union countries, enhancing job opportunities across the continent.
4. Austria — Red-white-red card (job seeker visa)
Austria’s red-white-red card is designed for highly skilled non-EU workers, allowing them to search for employment in Austria for up to six months. The visa uses a points-based system to assess eligibility, considering factors such as education, work experience, age, and language proficiency. Once a job is secured, the visa can be converted to a red-white-red card for long-term residency.
Canada’s International Experience Canada (IEC) program includes a working holiday component, allowing individuals to obtain an open work permit for 12 to 24 months. Although not specifically a job seeker visa, the open work permit enables holders to find short-term or casual employment while in Canada. Eligibility is generally restricted to individuals aged 18–35 from participating countries, with requirements varying by country.
6. Australia —Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417)
Australia offers a working holiday visa, which allows individuals to travel and work for short periods while exploring the country, with a duration of 12 months. Although not specifically designed for job seekers, the visa provides opportunities to network and find employment. The visa is available to individuals aged 18–30 or 18–35, depending on their country of origin. Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself is required.
7. New Zealand —Working Holiday visa
New Zealand offers a working holiday visa, allowing individuals to explore the country while working temporary jobs to support their travels, with a duration of 12 months. This visa is generally available to people aged 18–30, with some exceptions extending to 35 years. Applicants must have enough funds to support themselves upon arrival and for a return flight.
8. United Arab Emirates (UAE) — Visit visa to explore the job market
The UAE has introduced a visit visa for professionals seeking to explore job opportunities within the country, which allows them to stay for three to six months while searching for employment. The visa targets those in industries such as finance, technology, healthcare, and engineering. Applicants must show proof of financial resources to cover their stay. The UAE’s job market is appealing due to its tax-free salaries and rapidly growing sectors.
There’s more to laundry than just throwing items in the machine and taking them out when they’re clean. Maintaining the condition of your laundry and linens, as well as your washer and dryer, calls for careful preparation, measuring of detergent, and cleanup.
It is important to avoid certain laundry mistakes that could ruin your clothes.
Here are seven common mistakes to watch out for to ensure you get your laundry as clean as possible without damaging your clothes or your machine:
1. Using too much detergent
When it comes to doing your laundry, using more detergent does not necessarily mean you’ll get cleaner clothes. Using too much can create soap residue on fabric, leaving clothes stiff and scratchy. Excess detergent can also cause buildup in your washing machine, leading to poor performance over time. To avoid this, try to avoid using too much detergent when doing your laundry.
2. You sort only by color, not also by fabric.
You likely know that light-colored clothing should be washed separately from darks, but it’s also a good idea to sort items by the fabric they are made of. Separate heavier items, such as jeans and sweaters, from lightweight blouses and dress shirts to prevent abrasion and damage to the more delicate fabrics. To avoid getting sweater fuzz on your dress pants, you should also separate fabrics that shed lint from those that attract it. And always wash towels, bedding, and other bulky items separate from clothing. Grouping items by fabric type also helps your laundry loads to dry evenly, rather than some items remaining damp when others are fully dry.
Another common mistake that is ruining your clothes is overloading the washing machine. Some people are always tempted to put as many clothes into the washer as possible, but this can prevent proper cleaning. When the machine is overloaded, water and detergent may not reach every item, leaving clothes only partially cleaned. Overloading also puts extra strain on fabrics, causing them to wear out faster. To avoid this, it is better to wash clothes in smaller loads, leaving enough room for them to move freely.
4. You keep the washer door closed.
Front-load washing machines are notorious for trapping moisture and bacteria around the door, which can lead to mold and unpleasant smells. To keep your washer free of bacteria and odors, leave the door open after each wash cycle to allow the area to dry out. You can close it again after a few hours, or when the rubber gasket and washer drum feel completely dry.
5. Leaving wet clothes in the washer
Forgetting to transfer wet clothes from the washer to the dryer immediately can lead to mildew growth and musty odours. The longer clothes sit in a damp environment, the more bacteria and mould can build up. If you’re unable to dry your clothes right away, consider using a delay-start option on your washer or set a reminder to move them as soon as possible.
At the end of the day, it is important to note that taking care of your clothes properly can extend their lifespan. This can in turn save you money and reduce waste. So, next time you do laundry, remember to apply these tips so you can preserve the quality of your favourite clothes.
6. You forget to pretreat stains
One wash cycle may not be enough to remove a stain. So it’s important to use the right stain removal method for the stain and the fabric before you put the item in the washing machine. This is especially crucial for items you wash on hot because hot water can set a stain, as will a trip through the dryer, no matter what temperature the item was washed in.
The best time to begin trying to remove a stain is the moment you notice it. But even if a stain has already sat for some time, don’t skip the pretreating step. Just don’t forget to test the stain remover in an inconspicuous spot, use cold water as you work, and dab gently in order not to damage the fabric or further set the stain.
7. You skip cleaning your washing machine
Your washer cleans your clothes and linens, but the machine itself needs to be thoroughly cleaned, too. Grime from your dirty laundry, detergent residue, hard-water deposits, and mold or mildew can build up inside the washer over time. To clean your washing machine, use the self-clean cycle or run an empty hot-water cycle with vinegar instead of detergent. Be sure to scrub around the lid and rubber gasket, which can harbor moisture and bacteria and result in musty-smelling laundry.
