Introduction
In a world constantly in flux, the ability to evolve stands as a testament to human resilience and adaptability. In this edition, we delve into the captivating realm of evolving personalities, a phenomenon that speaks to the limitless potential within us all. Join us as we navigate the paths of self-discovery, growth, style, lifestyle and transformation, showcasing stories of individuals who have harnessed the power of change to redefine themselves.
TONYE BRIGGS
Please tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Tonye Briggs, born and raised in Lagos. I’m an Influencer and content creator. I moved to port harcourt 7 years ago to promote my city. I’m very passionate about people development and human capacity which is the foundation of my page called Portharcourtinpicture that promotes the people and culture of port harcourt.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
In ten years, my brand will be one of the leading media brands in Nigeria. I’m looking to set a full media house.
As an influencer, what would you say was your most embarrassing moment?
I think as an influencer people expect me to not have flaws. It’s a tricky question though. When I go out people are like she should not be eating like that or driving this kind of car or be in this particular place. Also eating mangoes can be embarrassing for me.
Tell us a bit about what you’re wearing now, how do you pick and style your clothes?
I am wearing jazz effect, I am wearing one of her new collection. I would describe my style as comfortable,chick and sexy because I have full legs and love to flaunt them. You will mostly catch me in a short black dress, mostly gowns that show my figure.
What advice would you give younger Tonye if you met her?
My favorite quote is “ nothing stops a man till he stops himself”My advice to her will be to follow your passion, have a goal and follow it through.Do not be bothered about what people say, set your eyes on the price. You have to go for what you want will all you have and the universe with align.
GREATCOOL EJEKWU
Tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Mr Great Ejekwu popularly known as Datfairguy. I’m into the hospitality business and the founder of three hospitality outlets.
You are very vocal about your political views and also very big on hospitality hence your ventures. How do you merge both worlds together?
I think politics and hospitality are connected. In my line of business, I deal with all sorts of clients. My views on politics are mine in regards to the state of the country and I feel the need to share them. By the grace of God I have worked in a few political offices which dates back as far as 2009. I worked at the local government level.
Name one fashion accessory you can’t do without?
Hmmm, I can’t really say,I’m a business man, I’m always on the move and in my line of hustle, one can’t be thinking of such things.
Tell us about your stepping stone to becoming one of the most influential men in port harcourt?
It’s a long story but I will try to make it short. The journey started in Lagos in 2013. I was opportuned to have close friends who were big in entertainment, this friends taught me the business part of entertainment, which led me to go to Lagos business school where i studied business management and entertainment. I did PR for a club for about a year, then moved to branding for liquor brands, after that I started influencing, which lead to me doing my first event called hot sauce in 2016, I believe it was the first outdoor lifestyle party in port harcourt and we had three series of hot sauce but I went back to Lagos. I decided to fully move to port harcourt in 2019 which is the best decision I made
When did it dawn on you “ I have made it?
That was 2019 when I finally came back, I knew I could do more. I think the process is very important. I was getting to know people, I was meeting executives and potential clients. So in 2019 I started speaking to friends, sending out proposals and one friend tapped into it. The initial plan was to start a car wash but then a female friend of mine linked me up with a client in Abuja which I flew down to meet up with. When i saw the venue I knew it wasn’t good, I told the client I had a better plan but he needed to pay me for it which he did. After a while I took a pause and decided that I should think bigger, so I changed plan and that was how bistro was born in 2020.
Saw my location at Abacha road GRA and it was a success. It was crowded every day for an entire year. I started black box the following year and now I run friends beach house and there is one I’m about to launch next month and one more is coming.
URBAN ESE
Please tell us a bit about yourself?
I’ve been passionate about fashion since I was a kid. I was privileged to have parents who were gracious enough to grant me the independence to choose my own clothes and style then for church and gatherings. I knew then that I wanted to pursue being a stylist as my career.I’d say my personal style is a mix of vintage and modern, I love to incorporate timeless pieces with trendy items to produce looks that are unique, stylish and comfortable.
This also influences my work as a fashion stylist.My goal is to help people express their individual style while still looking on-trend and polished. I achieve this by creating looks that are fashionable yet accessible, so clients can feel confident wearing them.
Your bio on Instagram says “ Accidental influencer” what exactly do you mean?
Firstly, I believe we are all influencers.We come into the world with a hardwired impulse to notice colors, patterns, things that are different, attractive and more.As adults, the best thing we can become in the era of influence is better influencers. Bearing this in mind and seeing how embracing my personal style has encouraged & influenced others to do same came the term “Accidental Influencer”
Describe your fashion sense in three words?
Cool, effortless, Swag
Name one brand you are looking forward to working with?
I will love to work with Adidas internationally and then I will also like to work with portharcourt brands.
Of all your styling gigs, which is your favorite?
All are special to me
Editor: TONYE HART
Interviewer: ROYAL BRIGGS
Photography: NEJstudios
location: Friends beach house .