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Lola Akinmade
  • Photos
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Category: Africa

This section spotlights travel experiences, articles, and photography covering places and regions I’ve explored in Africa.

When home morphs into space

by Lola AkinmadeAfrica, Travel NarrativesPosted on May 21, 2020December 17, 2020Comments are Disabled

Thoughts on decoupling home from place…

Photos + Video: My Ultimate Serengeti Safari Experience with Four Seasons

by Lola AkinmadeAfrica, Reviews + PartnershipsPosted on January 25, 2019January 26, 2019Comments are Disabled

In collaboration with #NordicTBinTanzania…

The Serengeti in black and white

by Lola AkinmadeAfrica, AsiaPosted on September 3, 2018September 5, 2018Comments are Disabled

Seeing the Serengeti in black and white evoked a whole new set of feelings…

Flying over the Ngorongoro Crater with Coastal Aviation

by Lola AkinmadeAfricaPosted on June 28, 2018June 28, 2018Comments are Disabled

Giving ourselves distance from something makes us revere it more…

Excerpt: My Little Green Book

by Lola AkinmadeAfrica, Travel NarrativesPosted on April 19, 2018April 19, 2018Comments are Disabled

My little green book opened the world to me…

In Photos: Breakfast with Bedouin nomads

by Lola AkinmadeAfrica, Middle EastPosted on April 20, 2017May 17, 20176 Comments

Photos from my time having breakfast with Bedouin nomads in Egypt…

Posts pagination

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My Travel Book

DUE NORTH by Lola A. Åkerström

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  • First of several incredible trade reviews 🌟 Thank you @kirkus_reviews for truly seeing @bitterhoneybook 💙💛 ===================== A mother and daughter in Sweden struggle to overcome the effects of colonial thinking about their Black bodies. “Honey” is the title of 20-year-old Tina’s hit single, a song that is catapulting her to the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest. The honey refers to her own striking eyes, inherited from the white Swedish father she’s never known… As Tina navigates fame and failure...the narrative swings back to her mother Nancy’s arrival in Sweden from Gambia in the 1970s, a scholarship student with political ambitions. At university, she falls in love with Malik, but there is another man on the scene, anthropology professor Lars Wikström, who speaks their native language and is besotted with Nancy... ....As the novel progresses, chapters toggling between Nancy in the ’80s and Tina in the ’00s, it becomes clear that both mother and daughter have to struggle with authenticity.... ....The exploration of identity is nicely paired with just enough melodrama—drug- and sex-fueled Hollywood parties, shocking secrets, explosive confrontations, and the angst of an artist—to keep the plot buzzing along. Deliciously addictive—a family drama with compelling social commentary. ===================== Full review -> https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/lola-akinmade-akerstrom/bitter-honey/ #bitterhoneybook #bookreview #kirkusreviews #contemporaryfiction #historicalfictionbooks #lolaakinmade
  • “Be still, and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10 #ineverymirrorshesblack #trust #trusttheprocess #faith #bestillandknow #bestill
  • Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
  • There’s a reason I loved spending time with artists, artisans, and people who work with their hands. Their craft forces you to stop and be completely in the moment. Full focus, distractions kept at bay, transfixed. It is a profession of the here-and-now. While in Kanazawa, we visited a Kaga Yuzen Dyeing Company, Maida Dyeing Crafts which has been designing and crafting kimonos for generations. As a (former?) oil painter, it was a privilege to try my hands at painting a swatch of fabric as well. Side note - If you’ve ever wondered what the difference between an artist and artisan is… An artist creates the design, and an artisan uses the design to handcraft the product. Sometime an individual is both, but generally, this is the difference #japan #art #kimono #craft #japanese #artisan #artist #kanazawa #craftmanship @kanazawa_kankou @kanazawaadventures @cril_privee
  • Friends and colleagues in Copenhagen, On Sunday, September 28, I will be at @arkbookscph for an author talk and reception celebrating my new book “Bitter Honey”. Join us for a cozy afternoon in their public living room - - LINK IN PROFILE Books can be purchased either as pre-orders or on the day. Bitter Honey @bitterhoneybook as well as my previous novels— Everything is not Enough @notenough.book and In Every Mirror She’s Black @ineverymirror — will be available for purchase and signing on location. Date: Sunday, September 28 Doors open: 13 Talk: 13:30-14:15 Reception onwards Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Look forward to seeing you there! Register free - LINK IN PROFILE #booktour #copenhagen #authorsoflinkedin #booksigning #authortalk
  • VIDEO - The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle
  • The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
  • Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
  • What a gorgeous welcome back to Tokyo 🇯🇵 With guests ranging from rock legends to heads of states and everyone in between, @thecapitolhoteltokyu is an exquisite boutique hotel tucked between Sannoinari Shrine and the Japanese Parliament, and right next door to the Prime Minister’s residence. With elegant interior decor and minimalist architecture inspired by nature, it’s as central as you can get with soundproof walls, creating a mini-retreat right in the heart of bustling Tokyo. I’m back in Japan traveling around the country and diving deeper into traditional craftsmanship, slow gastronomy, and culture as a guest of @cril_privee 🙏🏽 #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #hotel #hotelsoftheworld
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First of several incredible trade reviews 🌟 Thank you @kirkus_reviews for truly seeing @bitterhoneybook 💙💛 ===================== A mother and daughter in Sweden struggle to overcome the effects of colonial thinking about their Black bodies. “Honey” is the title of 20-year-old Tina’s hit single, a song that is catapulting her to the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest. The honey refers to her own striking eyes, inherited from the white Swedish father she’s never known… As Tina navigates fame and failure...the narrative swings back to her mother Nancy’s arrival in Sweden from Gambia in the 1970s, a scholarship student with political ambitions. At university, she falls in love with Malik, but there is another man on the scene, anthropology professor Lars Wikström, who speaks their native language and is besotted with Nancy... ....As the novel progresses, chapters toggling between Nancy in the ’80s and Tina in the ’00s, it becomes clear that both mother and daughter have to struggle with authenticity.... ....The exploration of identity is nicely paired with just enough melodrama—drug- and sex-fueled Hollywood parties, shocking secrets, explosive confrontations, and the angst of an artist—to keep the plot buzzing along. Deliciously addictive—a family drama with compelling social commentary. ===================== Full review -> https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/lola-akinmade-akerstrom/bitter-honey/ #bitterhoneybook #bookreview #kirkusreviews #contemporaryfiction #historicalfictionbooks #lolaakinmade
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First of several incredible trade reviews 🌟 Thank you @kirkus_reviews for truly seeing @bitterhoneybook 💙💛 ===================== A mother and daughter in Sweden struggle to overcome the effects of colonial thinking about their Black bodies. “Honey” is the title of 20-year-old Tina’s hit single, a song that is catapulting her to the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest. The honey refers to her own striking eyes, inherited from the white Swedish father she’s never known… As Tina navigates fame and failure...the narrative swings back to her mother Nancy’s arrival in Sweden from Gambia in the 1970s, a scholarship student with political ambitions. At university, she falls in love with Malik, but there is another man on the scene, anthropology professor Lars Wikström, who speaks their native language and is besotted with Nancy... ....As the novel progresses, chapters toggling between Nancy in the ’80s and Tina in the ’00s, it becomes clear that both mother and daughter have to struggle with authenticity.... ....The exploration of identity is nicely paired with just enough melodrama—drug- and sex-fueled Hollywood parties, shocking secrets, explosive confrontations, and the angst of an artist—to keep the plot buzzing along. Deliciously addictive—a family drama with compelling social commentary. ===================== Full review -> https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/lola-akinmade-akerstrom/bitter-honey/ #bitterhoneybook #bookreview #kirkusreviews #contemporaryfiction #historicalfictionbooks #lolaakinmade
3 days ago
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1/9
“Be still, and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10 #ineverymirrorshesblack #trust #trusttheprocess #faith #bestillandknow #bestill
“Be still, and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10 #ineverymirrorshesblack #trust #trusttheprocess #faith #bestillandknow #bestill
@lolaakinmade
@lolaakinmade
•
Follow
“Be still, and know that I am God.” - Psalm 46:10 #ineverymirrorshesblack #trust #trusttheprocess #faith #bestillandknow #bestill
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
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Notes on when little setbacks try to steal your shine… I almost canceled my flight to Helsinki. A day before I was to leave to receive the incredible honour bestowed by @ceci_educare_finland_ and the Nordic Africa Business Forum, one of my early partners on an incredible initiative I’m currently working on pulled out. With only two weeks left to launch, I was left scrambling for backups. I was considering sending my acceptance speech via video in absentia because I needed to get back to work again. After sharing my worries with my mother, she adjusted my crown and reminded me of what I was doing, how far I’ve come, and the broader message in all this. ”So you’re letting something rather insignificant steal your joy of getting this Nordic award in Finland? For all the work you’ve done and continue to do?” I am so grateful I didn’t. How often do we let the most minuscule setbacks derail us on the grand scheme of things? When one closed door opens wider gates of opportunity from those who get your vision? Needless to say, I am incredibly honoured to have accepted the award for Conscious Leadership in Espoo, Finland. It was an inspiring and grounding display of several cultures, most notably my own roots, Yoruba. In attendance was His Royal Majesty, 14th Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Sáká Adélolá Ayokanmi Mátemilola, Oluyalo‑Otileta VII. Nigeria. He also happens to be the king of one of the clans in Abeokuta where my maternal grandfather is from. Thank you @ceci_educare_finland_ for the selfless work you do in connecting the Nordics and Africa. Thank you @katjapresnal and @shekasgram for your incredible friendship and support. As a storyteller, I humbly accept this award for my part in helping creating more comprehensive, fuller, and richer narratives of what it means, and what it takes, to thrive in the Nordics as an Afroswede (@theafroswede) Dress - @whitebuttons.ng Ankara purse - Incredible gift from THE @chikaunigweauthor 🙏🏽💚 #womenintravel #womeninbusiness #award #consciousleadership #nordicafricaforum #finland #storyteller
5 days ago
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3/9
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There’s a reason I loved spending time with artists, artisans, and people who work with their hands. Their craft forces you to stop and be completely in the moment. Full focus, distractions kept at bay, transfixed. It is a profession of the here-and-now. While in Kanazawa, we visited a Kaga Yuzen Dyeing Company, Maida Dyeing Crafts which has been designing and crafting kimonos for generations. As a (former?) oil painter, it was a privilege to try my hands at painting a swatch of fabric as well. Side note - If you’ve ever wondered what the difference between an artist and artisan is… An artist creates the design, and an artisan uses the design to handcraft the product. Sometime an individual is both, but generally, this is the difference #japan #art #kimono #craft #japanese #artisan #artist #kanazawa #craftmanship @kanazawa_kankou @kanazawaadventures @cril_privee
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Friends and colleagues in Copenhagen, On Sunday, September 28, I will be at @arkbookscph for an author talk and reception celebrating my new book “Bitter Honey”. Join us for a cozy afternoon in their public living room - - LINK IN PROFILE Books can be purchased either as pre-orders or on the day. Bitter Honey @bitterhoneybook as well as my previous novels— Everything is not Enough @notenough.book and In Every Mirror She’s Black @ineverymirror — will be available for purchase and signing on location. Date: Sunday, September 28 Doors open: 13 Talk: 13:30-14:15 Reception onwards Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Look forward to seeing you there! Register free - LINK IN PROFILE #booktour #copenhagen #authorsoflinkedin #booksigning #authortalk
Friends and colleagues in Copenhagen, On Sunday, September 28, I will be at @arkbookscph for an author talk and reception celebrating my new book “Bitter Honey”. Join us for a cozy afternoon in their public living room - - LINK IN PROFILE Books can be purchased either as pre-orders or on the day. Bitter Honey @bitterhoneybook as well as my previous novels— Everything is not Enough @notenough.book and In Every Mirror She’s Black @ineverymirror — will be available for purchase and signing on location. Date: Sunday, September 28 Doors open: 13 Talk: 13:30-14:15 Reception onwards Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Look forward to seeing you there! Register free - LINK IN PROFILE #booktour #copenhagen #authorsoflinkedin #booksigning #authortalk
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Friends and colleagues in Copenhagen, On Sunday, September 28, I will be at @arkbookscph for an author talk and reception celebrating my new book “Bitter Honey”. Join us for a cozy afternoon in their public living room - - LINK IN PROFILE Books can be purchased either as pre-orders or on the day. Bitter Honey @bitterhoneybook as well as my previous novels— Everything is not Enough @notenough.book and In Every Mirror She’s Black @ineverymirror — will be available for purchase and signing on location. Date: Sunday, September 28 Doors open: 13 Talk: 13:30-14:15 Reception onwards Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. Look forward to seeing you there! Register free - LINK IN PROFILE #booktour #copenhagen #authorsoflinkedin #booksigning #authortalk
2 weeks ago
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5/9
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VIDEO - The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
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The one and only Lady Baba ❤️ - @ladybaba_japan - @kaikarojapan Higashi Chaya (Geisha District) Shot with @hasselblad X2D + XCD 45 #japan #culture #tradition #geisha #travel #mediatrip #history #japanesestyle #portrait
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
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Soft shell turtle soup, eelpout, hairy crab, flounder, ivory fish, bonita, sweet fish, devil stinger fish, and sea bream… just a few delicacies @dai_toyama served up in what is shaping up to be an epic gastronomical experience here in Japan. —- Traveling as a guest of the exquisite @cril_privee Photo of me by @silviapisci #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #gastronomy #japanesefood
3 weeks ago
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8/9
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What a gorgeous welcome back to Tokyo 🇯🇵 With guests ranging from rock legends to heads of states and everyone in between, @thecapitolhoteltokyu is an exquisite boutique hotel tucked between Sannoinari Shrine and the Japanese Parliament, and right next door to the Prime Minister’s residence. With elegant interior decor and minimalist architecture inspired by nature, it’s as central as you can get with soundproof walls, creating a mini-retreat right in the heart of bustling Tokyo. I’m back in Japan traveling around the country and diving deeper into traditional craftsmanship, slow gastronomy, and culture as a guest of @cril_privee 🙏🏽 #japan #culture #tradition #craftmanship #travel #mediatrip #hotel #hotelsoftheworld
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
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