cotton101: hmmmm

ella well done but i'm not sure about the way British TV likes to edit programmes to fit the agenda they have - I doubt this will be edited in a way to show Nigerian mothers positively - maybe i'm just too pessimistic and cynical, like you I only have one child anyway so wouldn't be able to apply but - i don't know o!!!

I personally have no desire to be famous for "15 mins" - hmmmmm however, I do know some people who have 2 or more kids - do they have to be Nigerian as I know a couple of mixed race families and other west african mothers

Hmmm x 2!

I understand your reservations exactly. I don't know if they would try to portray Nigerian's negatively or not as I am not involved in the company but I do see it as an opportunity. It is really left to you to decipher from the questions they asked if they could make this appear negative. Nigerian women are smart and if they take the time to think before answering questions or refuse to answer leading or inappropriate questions then you can show this. I would be interested in watching mixed race families and other west African mothers too so I doubt this is limited to Nigerian mothers she merely contacted me because of the blog so please forward details directly to her I will put the email up.

Maverick Television is looking for inspiring mums. They are the people who brought you:
-My Super Sweet World Class
-Embarrassing Bodies
-Get The Look
-Gok's Teens: The Naked Truth
-Embarrassing Bodies
-Britain's Next Big Thing (with Dragon's Den star)
-10 Years Younger and More

Maverick Television is looking for inspiring mums. They are the people who brought you:
-My Super Sweet World Class
-Embarrassing Bodies
-Get The Look
-Gok's Teens: The Naked Truth
-Embarrassing Bodies
-Britain's Next Big Thing (with Dragon's Den star)
-10 Years Younger and More

Ivynwa: I told you so Lady Ell. I told you that this can be real huge. I am happy for you dear.
I hope this works good for you. Fly girl!

Lol. Thanks dear. But I am not getting anything out of it as I myself only have one child and am not eligible to feature, but I definitely think it will be interesting and can help show a positive image for one of Nigeria's most precious resources: OUR MOTHERS.

I think it will just be a series of interviews for now but who knows maybe we will see a documentary one day "The Real Nigerian Housewives"!!!

That would have be addicted to the channel that broadcasts it! lol.

Ivynwa: Woyiiiiii! I told you so Lady Ell. I told you in your other thread that this can be real huge. I am happy for you dear.
I hope this works good for you. You go, you go!

Lol. Thanks dear. But I am not getting anything out of it as I myself only have one child and am not eligible to feature, but I definitely think it will be interesting and can help show a positive image for one of Nigeria's most precious resources: OUR MOTHERS.

I think it will just be a series of interviews for now but who knows maybe we will see a documentary one day "The Real Nigerian Housewives"!!!

Maverick Television is looking for inspiring mums.

Do you have a particular parenting technique or method that you believe works well?

Are you proud of your style of parenting and believe others could learn from you?

We are developing a parenting show and want to hear from strong mums who would be happy to talk about parenting and what works for them. We are looking for mums with two or more children.

If this sounds like you or someone you know, please email s.carty@mavericktv.co.uk, don't forget to tell her Ella sent you!

Maverick Television is looking for inspiring mums.

Do you have a particular parenting technique or method that you believe works well?

Are you proud of your style of parenting and believe others could learn from you?

We are developing a parenting show and want to hear from strong mums who would be happy to talk about parenting and what works for them. We are looking for mums with two or more children.

If this sounds like you or someone you know, please email s.carty@mavericktv.co.uk, don't forget to tell her Ella sent you!

Hi tpia,

I was only emailed this afternoon around 4 pm UK time so I don't know all the details, I will definitely post further details for you and others as I find out more. I have also asked if Nigerian mothers in Nigeria could be involved.

Hello Ladies,

2 hours ago, I was approached by a Channel 4 TV producer about ‘The Real Nigerian Housewives of the United Kingdom’ who is currently developing a parenting series and wants to hear from mum’s who would be happy to talk about parenting. This successful producer is looking for larger than life personalities with strong opinions.

She is looking for inspiring mums who have a clear and definable view on parenting and believe this works well for them. You should be a strong character who is proud of your style of parenting and believe others could learn from you. You should have two or more children.

I think this would be a very interesting watch and I know our Nigerian mothers have a lot to offer society. If you are interested please let me know. I have not discussed payment with her but the exposure is phenomenal and can go some way to improving our image becoming respected for our parenting skills.

Please join the group if one or more of these comments apply to you. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

http://realnaijwife..co.uk/

Kind Regards

Ella

Hello Ladies,

I have been approached by a Channel 4 TV producer about ‘The Real Nigerian Housewives of the United Kingdom’ who is currently developing a parenting series and wants to hear from mum’s who would be happy to talk about parenting. This successful producer is looking for larger than life personalities with strong opinions.

She is looking for inspiring mums who have a clear and definable view on parenting and believe this works well for them. You should be a strong character who is proud of your style of parenting and believe others could learn from you. You should have two or more children.

I think this would be a very interesting watch and I know our Nigerian mothers have a lot to offer society. If you are interested please let me know. I have not discussed payment with her but the exposure is phenomenal and can go some way to improving our image becoming respected for our parenting skills.

Please join the group if one or more of these comments apply to you. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

http://realnaijwife..co.uk/

Kind Regards

Ella

oops pls delete this one! I posted it twice by accident! sorry. the system was playing up.

Previously posted in Family, moderator please move if this is correct!

It is likely many of you if not all of you have heard of the term "cooperative". But I bet most of you have never really researched into what a cooperative does and yet you have preconceived ideas on what happens in a cooperative. This article is the first article aimed at empowering you with the knowledge to not only understand what a cooperative is, but to participate and benefit from one.

A cooperative is a businesses owned and run by its members for its members. Members often have something in common like heritage, interests, work, geographic location and more.

Member all have equal voting rights and when profits are made this is shared amongst members or reinvested according to the decision of members. Often cooperatives may work together to improve the lives of all members in a given community. Jamaican and Nigerian cooperatives have often been known to put aside each month a given amount to a central fund and each month the group gives this to one of the members (or something to this effect) but in actual fact operating models and income streams and income release can be defined in any way and decided by the group (sometimes this changes as business models are often flexible).

Co-operatives are businesses, not charities, so the aim is to profit financially, socially or otherwise (i.e. obtaining scarce products/services). By working together, members do better in their individual monetary investments. savings and businesses than they would have separately.

Cooperatives can invest locally and internationally promoting growth in areas underlooked by various organisations.

So here is my proposal. I am thinking of starting a cooperative:

- It would have a legal structure.

- It would have a steering group that ensures the interests of all members are followed (lets say the steering group/committee sits for 3 years before re-election, for very first term would sit for 5 years to raise funds and profile).

- It would invest in areas/business members have knowledge of or experience or a need for i.e.

[center]Any idea that comes up through cooperative brainstorming
Entertainment- Books/Movies/TV Shows
Business Start Up Seminars/Training/ Ancillary Services (i.e. Websites, Accounting, Marketing, Legal etc)
Recruitment Firms and Career/Employment Advice
Childcare/Daycare Services and Babycare Products
Food and Drink (Catering, Restaurants, Consumer products, Trade/Distribution)
Education (Schools/Tuition Classes)
Family/Relationships
Fashion, Hair and Beauty
Homes and Gardens (Real estate development and related services i.e. plumbing, electricians etc)
Living Overseas (Relocation to Nigeria company specialising in cargo, accommodation, schools, healthcare, settling in etc)
Politics (in UK and Nigeria)
Social Events (Celebrations, Festivals, Parties, Wedding Planners)
Travel/Holidays (Vehicle Shipment to Nigeria, Investing in Tourism in Nigeria, Travel Agency etc)[/center]

- It would create profit financially, it would offer employment opportunities, it would offer experience and exposure and have a community building outlook.

- It would be for Nigerian families in the UK (at first or permanently)

- There would be monthly payments of £50, a member can withdraw money by leaving subject to notice period in the constitution. So if for example there were 20 members, £12k would be generated in the first year from contributions. Members can invest more than a minimum with a view to sharing more of the profit based on their financial investment, members can also share more in profit through trading their time i.e. acting as accountant or building brick walls for a development totaling 10 hours. THE ARE ALSO OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDING LIKE GRANTS OR LOANS THAT COULD ASSIST IN RAISING THIS AMOUNT.

If you are interested in setting up this cooperative with me and have suggestions or strong opinions, please contact me at ellaoku@gmail.com

Thanks

Regards

Mrs Ella Inedia

Siena: ^^^ Brilliant concept, Ella. I remember these back when I was a kid - both my parents were members of their respective Cooperative unions.

It'll be interesting to see how such a venture pans out in the UK. The important thing is, the priviledge shouldn't be abused by its members, that way it's mutually beneficial to everyone.

Exactly Siena. I remember hearing stories of susu in Nigerian and many thrift lending societies. I think the failing here is that when someone takes a loan from a coop, lets say to fund their children's education there is only limited motivation for the other members to assist them should they run into difficulty paying back. There is generally little screening or vetting to make sure it will be a worthwhile use of the loan and high interests are apportioned so many would argue it is even more profitable for members if the debtor takes longer to repay as they cash in.

If however, money from members is used to invest, the group now has a collective interest to ensure the investment is profitable and succeeds. So if they invest in a restaurant for example. They will not choose whoever shouts the loudest is oldest or is most popular to front it. They will choose the most skilled. They will also invest heavily in business planning and promotion financially and physically, paying for advert space, telling friends, other groups they belong to, work colleagues to go eat there and celebrate there. They will also only patronise this restaurant for family dinners/evenings as they know a £20 meal in Pizza Hut is lost and they don't know how the food is cooked or the ethos of how the place is kept. But £20 in their cooperative owned restaurant is an investment in their future profits they will receive back and whats more they had a hand in deciding how the place would be run including service standards etc.

The restaurant example is just for illustration but can be used for any industry. If the business invested in is experiencing problems i.e. due to economic climate lets say, the group members are likely to reinvest to turn things round or collectively decide to enter another market that may have arisen i.e. home take away rather than blame each other or turn a blind eye. All decisions are collective and are for and by all members.

Not sure if this should be here, so please redirect if it is in the wrong place.

It is likely many of you if not all of you have heard of the term "cooperative". But I bet most of you have never really researched into what a cooperative does and yet you have preconceived ideas on what happens in a cooperative. This article is the first article aimed at empowering you with the knowledge to not only understand what a cooperative is, but to participate and benefit from one.

A cooperative is a businesses owned and run by its members for its members. Members often have something in common like heritage, interests, work, geographic location and more.

Member all have equal voting rights and when profits are made this is shared amongst members or reinvested according to the decision of members. Often cooperatives may work together to improve the lives of all members in a given community. Jamaican and Nigerian cooperatives have often been known to put aside each month a given amount to a central fund and each month the group gives this to one of the members (or something to this effect) but in actual fact operating models and income streams and income release can be defined in any way and decided by the group (sometimes this changes as business models are often flexible).

Co-operatives are businesses, not charities, so the aim is to profit financially, socially or otherwise (i.e. obtaining scarce products/services). By working together, members do better in their individual monetary investments. savings and businesses than they would have separately.

Cooperatives can invest locally and internationally promoting growth in areas underlooked by various organisations.

So here is my proposal. I am thinking of starting a cooperative:

- It would have a legal structure.

- It would have a steering group that ensures the interests of all members are followed (lets say the steering group/committee sits for 3 years before re-election, for very first term would sit for 5 years to raise funds and profile).

- It would invest in areas/business members have knowledge of or experience or a need for i.e.

Any idea that comes up through cooperative brainstorming
Entertainment- Books/Movies/TV Shows
Business Start Up Seminars/Training/ Ancillary Services (i.e. Websites, Accounting, Marketing, Legal etc)
Recruitment Firms and Career/Employment Advice
Childcare/Daycare Services and Babycare Products
Food and Drink (Catering, Restaurants, Consumer products, Trade/Distribution)
Education (Schools/Tuition Classes)
Family/Relationships
Fashion, Hair and Beauty
Homes and Gardens (Real estate development and related services i.e. plumbing, electricians etc)
Living Overseas (Relocation to Nigeria company specialising in cargo, accommodation, schools, healthcare, settling in etc)
Politics (in UK and Nigeria)
Social Events (Celebrations, Festivals, Parties, Wedding Planners)
Travel/Holidays (Vehicle Shipment to Nigeria, Investing in Tourism in Nigeria, Travel Agency etc)

- It would create profit financially, it would offer employment opportunities, it would offer experience and exposure and have a community building outlook.

- It would be for Nigerian families in the UK (at first or permanently)

- There would be monthly payments of £50, a member can withdraw money by leaving subject to notice period in the constitution. So if for example there were 20 members, £12k would be generated in the first year from contributions. Members can invest more than a minimum with a view to sharing more of the profit based on their financial investment, members can also share more in profit through trading their time i.e. acting as accountant or building brick walls for a development totaling 10 hours.

If you are interested in setting up this cooperative with me and have suggestions or strong opinions, please contact me at ellaoku@gmail.com

Thanks

Regards

Mrs Ella Inedia

Not sure if this should be here or in Business so please redirect if it is in the wrong place.

It is likely many of you if not all of you have heard of the term "cooperative". But I bet most of you have never really researched into what a cooperative does and yet you have preconceived ideas on what happens in a cooperative. This article is the first article aimed at empowering you with the knowledge to not only understand what a cooperative is, but to participate and benefit from one.

A cooperative is a businesses owned and run by its members for its members. Members often have something in common like heritage, interests, work, geographic location and more.

Member all have equal voting rights and when profits are made this is shared amongst members or reinvested according to the decision of members. Often cooperatives may work together to improve the lives of all members in a given community. Jamaican and Nigerian cooperatives have often been known to put aside each month a given amount to a central fund and each month the group gives this to one of the members (or something to this effect) but in actual fact operating models and income streams and income release can be defined in any way and decided by the group (sometimes this changes as business models are often flexible).

Co-operatives are businesses, not charities, so the aim is to profit financially, socially or otherwise (i.e. obtaining scarce products/services). By working together, members do better in their individual monetary investments. savings and businesses than they would have separately.

Cooperatives can invest locally and internationally promoting growth in areas underlooked by various organisations.

So here is my proposal. I am thinking of starting a cooperative:

- It would have a legal structure.

- It would have a steering group that ensures the interests of all members are followed (lets say the steering group/committee sits for 3 years before re-election, for very first term would sit for 5 years to raise funds and profile).

- It would invest in areas/business members have knowledge of or experience or a need for i.e.

Any idea that comes up through cooperative brainstorming
Entertainment- Books/Movies/TV Shows
Business Start Up Seminars/Training/ Ancillary Services (i.e. Websites, Accounting, Marketing, Legal etc)
Recruitment Firms and Career/Employment Advice
Childcare/Daycare Services and Babycare Products
Food and Drink (Catering, Restaurants, Consumer products, Trade/Distribution)
Education (Schools/Tuition Classes)
Family/Relationships
Fashion, Hair and Beauty
Homes and Gardens (Real estate development and related services i.e. plumbing, electricians etc)
Living Overseas (Relocation to Nigeria company specialising in cargo, accommodation, schools, healthcare, settling in etc)
Politics (in UK and Nigeria)
Social Events (Celebrations, Festivals, Parties, Wedding Planners)
Travel/Holidays (Vehicle Shipment to Nigeria, Investing in Tourism in Nigeria, Travel Agency etc)

- It would create profit financially, it would offer employment opportunities, it would offer experience and exposure and have a community building outlook.

- It would be for Nigerian families in the UK (at first or permanently)

- There would be monthly payments of £50, a member can withdraw money by leaving subject to notice period in the constitution. So if for example there were 20 members, £12k would be generated in the first year from contributions. Members can invest more than a minimum with a view to sharing more of the profit based on their financial investment, members can also share more in profit through trading their time i.e. acting as accountant or building brick walls for a development totaling 10 hours. THE ARE ALSO OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDING LIKE GRANTS OR LOANS THAT COULD ASSIST IN RAISING THIS AMOUNT.

If you are interested in setting up this cooperative with me and have suggestions or strong opinions, please contact me at ellaoku@gmail.com

Thanks

Regards

Mrs Ella Inedia

It is likely many of you if not all of you have heard of the term "cooperative". But I bet most of you have never really researched into what a cooperative does and yet you have preconceived ideas on what happens in a cooperative. This article is the first article aimed at empowering you with the knowledge to not only understand what a cooperative is, but to participate and benefit from one.

A cooperative is a businesses owned and run by its members for its members. Members often have something in common like heritage, interests, work, geographic location and more.

Member all have equal voting rights and when profits are made this is shared amongst members or reinvested according to the decision of members. Often cooperatives may work together to improve the lives of all members in a given community. Jamaican and Nigerian cooperatives have often been known to put aside each month a given amount to a central fund and each month the group gives this to one of the members (or something to this effect) but in actual fact operating models and income streams and income release can be defined in any way and decided by the group (sometimes this changes as business models are often flexible).

Co-operatives are businesses, not charities, so the aim is to profit financially, socially or otherwise (i.e. obtaining scarce products/services). By working together, members do better in their individual monetary investments. savings and businesses than they would have separately.

Cooperatives can invest locally and internationally promoting growth in areas underlooked by various organisations.

So here is my proposal. I am thinking of starting a cooperative:

- It would have a legal structure.

- It would have a steering group that ensures the interests of all members are followed (lets say the steering group/committee sits for 3 years before re-election, for very first term would sit for 5 years to raise funds and profile).

- It would invest in areas/business members have knowledge of or experience or a need for i.e.

Any idea that comes up through cooperative brainstorming
Entertainment- Books/Movies/TV Shows
Business Start Up Seminars/Training/ Ancillary Services (i.e. Websites, Accounting, Marketing, Legal etc)
Recruitment Firms and Career/Employment Advice
Childcare/Daycare Services and Babycare Products
Food and Drink (Catering, Restaurants, Consumer products, Trade/Distribution)
Education (Schools/Tuition Classes)
Family/Relationships
Fashion, Hair and Beauty
Homes and Gardens (Real estate development and related services i.e. plumbing, electricians etc)
Living Overseas (Relocation to Nigeria company specialising in cargo, accommodation, schools, healthcare, settling in etc)
Politics (in UK and Nigeria)
Social Events (Celebrations, Festivals, Parties, Wedding Planners)
Travel/Holidays (Vehicle Shipment to Nigeria, Investing in Tourism in Nigeria, Travel Agency etc)

- It would create profit financially, it would offer employment opportunities, it would offer experience and exposure and have a community building outlook.

- It would be for Nigerian families in the UK (at first or permanently)

- There would be monthly payments of £50, a member can withdraw money by leaving subject to notice period in the constitution. So if for example there were 20 members, £12k would be generated in the first year from contributions. Members can invest more than a minimum with a view to sharing more of the profit based on their financial investment, members can also share more in profit through trading their time i.e. acting as accountant or building brick walls for a development totaling 10 hours.

If you are interested in setting up this cooperative with me and have suggestions or strong opinions, please contact me at ellaoku@gmail.com

Thanks

Regards

Mrs Ella Inedia

Thanks Mrs Siena! Welcome to the group!

Hi NLs,

So I went to the Ariya Expo on Saturday showcasing West African Tourism for those who want to travel or invest in the tourism industry.

The event was supposed to showcase "..the very best of West African Culture and Tourism. From Airlines to Accommodation providers, Car Hire, Entertainment and Hospitality, Business and Financial Services."

Why did I go? Well a multiple of reasons really, I am a firm believer Nigeria should be a number one tourism spot. Already I enjoy going there for the people, food, music and culture alone, investing more in this sector may make it more attractive to non-Nigerians and will impact the economy positively creating jobs with the multiple development schemes. So when I saw this advertised on BEN I thought it was a great way to see some destinations I could visit next time whilst going to view investment opportunities. My husband was eager to see investment opportunities also so we went along with our little soon to be 14 month old son.

The event was held over two days Friday 2nd November 10.00pm - 6.00pm and Saturday 3rd November 10.00am - 3.00pm at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel and besides Nigeria showcased some other places I'd like to visit like Ghana and Cape Verde.

The nature of me and my husband's work and business meant Saturday was the only viable day...

For attendees I will judge the event based on:

- number of participating exhibitors;

- quality of products or service exhibited;

- and conferences,

- seminars and

- events organized at the exhibition

- service quality


...For exhibitors satisfaction review and the full article: http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/11/ariya-expo-enjoying-or-investing-in.html
BOOTH MANAGEMENT

There was no real booth management as no high tech technology was visible at booths, products offered were give-aways and contact details for different booths were obtained via written registration forms and surveys. So the management of booths was fair as there was not much to manage for the organisers.



CONTENTS

Exhibition content included trade seminar, cultural performances and fashion show. This would have been very useful for exhibitors where they were relevant to the different exhibitors. The trade seminar, likely relevant to all was strictly by invitation and involved governement officials and diplomats however this was only on the Friday so I cannot comment on the quality of it thought it was likely very interesting. It was also by invitation only, this asks the question who gets an invite. If exhibitors all were allowed to send a representative this would be a key selling point, if not, then it was likely to be irrelevant, limited only to the fact they may see a passing official on exit from the seminar.

The cultural performances and fashion shows would be interesting to exhibitors who were likely to hire the services/buy the products, or whose region the performance/marketable product related to provided the performance/products were good. On the Saturday I saw some drummers with dreadlocks and I am not sure which country they were representing but I doubt it was Nigeria, the performance was basic as they sat down and drummed and the only interesting thing was they invited some children to play. If this had been developed more professionally or they had wonderful costumes for themselves and the children/participants and dances in tow that would have been better. The fashion designs were okay but I have seen a lot of great designs here in the UK and the runway was the whole floor instead of a professional runway, although there was a small runway which was not used.

...

EXHIBITION AND BOOTH ATTRACTIVENESS

The event was televised by BEN, this is where I saw the initial advert. I believe they had trouble getting exhibitors and attendees because of this. Any exhibitor that wants investment knows it pays to advertise in as many sources as possible. I am not certain this was advertised anywhere besides BEN and perhaps the Trumpet (a Nigerian newspaper). The event should have been in local newspapers that investors read like FT, Metro, Evening Standard, City AM. It should have been on other TV stations that British non-Nigerians view too. It could also have been on each exhibitors website. It should have been sent to investment bankers/fund managers/UKTI/DFID etc. I feel the lack of attendees that did not register meant the organisers could not spend as much as they wanted.

The booths themselves were quite basic and in many cases consisted of a desk, a chair and a pop up banner. Pop up banners are fine and serve their purpose, but it would have been nice to see a variety of booth investment ranging from basic to premium to indicate the investment of exhibitors themselves. This could have been done by the show organiser investing in the exhibition stands owned by government as these go a long way towards forming a lasting and even a first impression.

NUMBER OF EXHIBITORS

Very few, perhaps 9, plus a drum performance team consisting of two men in casual clothing and a fashion catwalk team. Past exhibitions I have seen have on average 100 exhibitors. As stated above I don't believe it was promoted well.

QUALITY OF PRODUCTS/SERVICE EXHIBITED

Average, quality ranged from very unique or valuable to very poor. Exhibitions are supposed to help exhibitors promote their product/service but this does not mean invite everyone who will pay it means that organisers should work with exhibitors to let them know the profile of the audience and what they expect (through preliminary surveys) and how to market/sell, in cases where you have enough exhibitors, the best exhibitors should be shortlisted (not necessarily the biggest but those with something valuable to offer). Shortlisting would not have been possible here but collaborative working to help exhibitors market would have been valuable.

CONFERENCES (a meeting of people who "confer" about a topic)

None at all, so cannot comment. Sadly this would have been a highlight for me and my partner. However, my partner networked and had his own impromptu "seminars" (well discussions really) with exhibitors regarding Nigeria...

Goldman Sachs has called Nigeria a Frontier economy and made it one of the Next 11 a group of 11 countries set to change the economy by 2020. There money is already in Nigeria. So why don't we invest in tourism? It definitely makes sense. I believe the next event they do will be fantastic if they take on the feedback received. They must however do really a number of things, invest in more promotion so there are more attendees and exhibitors, invest in booth management/marketing so booths are attractive, invest in the events organised making a valuable variety available on a public holiday or weekend as well as a weekday. They should invest in a bigger event to handle the large crowds they will draw in. I have taken this 2012 event as a dress rehearsal as all companies have this when venturing into something new and for a first time attempt it was not too bad, so bring on Ariya 2013!

For exhibitors satisfaction review and the full article: http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/11/ariya-expo-enjoying-or-investing-in.html

Hi Ladies,

So I went to the Ariya Expo on Saturday showcasing West African Tourism for those who want to travel or invest in the tourism industry.

The event was supposed to showcase "..the very best of West African Culture and Tourism. From Airlines to Accommodation providers, Car Hire, Entertainment and Hospitality, Business and Financial Services."

Why did I go? Well a multiple of reasons really, I am a firm believer Nigeria should be a number one tourism spot. Already I enjoy going there for the people, food, music and culture alone, investing more in this sector may make it more attractive to non-Nigerians and will impact the economy positively creating jobs with the multiple development schemes. So when I saw this advertised on BEN I thought it was a great way to see some destinations I could visit next time whilst going to view investment opportunities. My husband was eager to see investment opportunities also so we went along with our little soon to be 14 month old son.

The event was held over two days Friday 2nd November 10.00pm - 6.00pm and Saturday 3rd November 10.00am - 3.00pm at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel and besides Nigeria showcased some other places I'd like to visit like Ghana and Cape Verde.

The nature of me and my husband's work and business meant Saturday was the only viable day...

For attendees I will judge the event based on:

- number of participating exhibitors;

- quality of products or service exhibited;

- and conferences,

- seminars and

- events organized at the exhibition

- service quality


...For exhibitors satisfaction review and the full article: http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/11/ariya-expo-enjoying-or-investing-in.html
BOOTH MANAGEMENT

There was no real booth management as no high tech technology was visible at booths, products offered were give-aways and contact details for different booths were obtained via written registration forms and surveys. So the management of booths was fair as there was not much to manage for the organisers.



CONTENTS

Exhibition content included trade seminar, cultural performances and fashion show. This would have been very useful for exhibitors where they were relevant to the different exhibitors. The trade seminar, likely relevant to all was strictly by invitation and involved governement officials and diplomats however this was only on the Friday so I cannot comment on the quality of it thought it was likely very interesting. It was also by invitation only, this asks the question who gets an invite. If exhibitors all were allowed to send a representative this would be a key selling point, if not, then it was likely to be irrelevant, limited only to the fact they may see a passing official on exit from the seminar.

The cultural performances and fashion shows would be interesting to exhibitors who were likely to hire the services/buy the products, or whose region the performance/marketable product related to provided the performance/products were good. On the Saturday I saw some drummers with dreadlocks and I am not sure which country they were representing but I doubt it was Nigeria, the performance was basic as they sat down and drummed and the only interesting thing was they invited some children to play. If this had been developed more professionally or they had wonderful costumes for themselves and the children/participants and dances in tow that would have been better. The fashion designs were okay but I have seen a lot of great designs here in the UK and the runway was the whole floor instead of a professional runway, although there was a small runway.

...

EXHIBITION AND BOOTH ATTRACTIVENESS

The event was televised by BEN, this is where I saw the initial advert. I believe they had trouble getting exhibitors and attendees because of this. Any exhibitor that wants investment knows it pays to advertise in as many sources as possible. I am not certain this was advertised anywhere besides BEN and perhaps the Trumpet (a Nigerian newspaper). The event should have been in local newspapers that investors read like FT, Metro, Evening Standard, City AM. It should have been on other TV stations that British non-Nigerians view too. It could also have been on each exhibitors website. It should have been sent to investment bankers/fund managers/UKTI/DFID etc. I feel the lack of attendees that did not register meant the organisers could not spend as much as they wanted.

The booths themselves were quite basic and in many cases consisted of a desk, a chair and a pop up banner. Pop up banners are fine and serve their purpose, but it would have been nice to see a variety of booth investment ranging from basic to premium to indicate the investment of exhibitors themselves. This could have been done by the show organiser investing in the exhibition stands owned by government as these go a long way towards forming a lasting and even a first impression.

NUMBER OF EXHIBITORS

Very few, perhaps 9, plus a drum performance team consisting of two men in casual clothing and a fashion catwalk team. Past exhibitions I have seen have on average 100 exhibitors. As stated above I don't believe it was promoted well.

QUALITY OF PRODUCTS/SERVICE EXHIBITED

Average, quality ranged from very unique or valuable to very poor. Exhibitions are supposed to help exhibitors promote their product/service but this does not mean invite everyone who will pay it means that organisers should work with exhibitors to let them know the profile of the audience and what they expect (through preliminary surveys) and how to market/sell, in cases where you have enough exhibitors, the best exhibitors should be shortlisted (not necessarily the biggest but those with something valuable to offer). Shortlisting would not have been possible here but collaborative working to help exhibitors market would have been valuable.

CONFERENCES (a meeting of people who "confer" about a topic)

None at all, so cannot comment. Sadly this would have been a highlight for me and my partner. However, my partner networked and had his own impromptu "seminars" (well discussions really) with exhibitors regarding Nigeria...

Goldman Sachs has called Nigeria a Frontier economy and made it one of the Next 11 a group of 11 countries set to change the economy by 2020. There money is already in Nigeria. So why don't we invest in tourism? It definitely makes sense. I believe the next event they do will be fantastic if they take on the feedback received. They must however do really two things, invest in more promotion so there are more attendees and exhibitors, invest in booth management/marketing so booths are attractive, invest in the events organised making a valuable variety available on a public holiday or weekend as well as a weekday. They should invest in a bigger event to handle the large crowds they will draw in. I have taken this 2012 event as a dress rehearsal as all companies have this when venturing into something new and for a first time attempt it was not too bad, so bring on Ariya 2013!

For exhibitors satisfaction review and the full article: http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/11/ariya-expo-enjoying-or-investing-in.html

megainvest: OP, Please I need your urgent help with accommodation in Aberdeen. I will need a place to stay for 3 to 6 months starting from November this year. Do you have any or can you give me some guidance?

Thanks in anticipation

We may be able to source a place for you. Please email director@degreeangel.co.uk with your
-Full name
-Details of where you are in your visa application process
-Budget
-Date you need it for
-Course you are studying
-Full address of education establishment
-Distance willing to travel to study

This will help us, help you.

Hi Ladies,

I trust all is well with you, I know this is a busy time of year for many of you if not all of you so I just want to say forget the stress, you will remember the memories you create in the upcoming special moments. I remember being a child and looking forward to this, playing, getting gifts, the lovely dinner, the chance to rest a little. Get your strength to provide an extra special Christmas by remembering the times someone else made this special for you. Imagine giving that to your child(ren) and/or partner. Feeling motivated? I knew you would. Can't wait!!!

Following my post on the socials there seems to be a lot more interest in the career/business session, followed by cooking and lastly the DIY spa! O would like to remind you that although some seem more valuable than others at first glance, none of them will be a waste of your hard time. Please let me know your preferences by filling the survey or commenting on the post and men please forward the details to your spouses (events that don't achieve minimum guest numbers by 10th November will be cancelled/rearranged, also please note events will be held in South East England - London/Dagenham):

"Socials Socials Socials!!
Hi Ladies,

...Based on the feedback from our survey we now have 3 socials planned and all we need are guests!

FIRST: FREE SPA/MAKEOVER AND GELE TYING SESSION (24th November 2012 provisional) . . .
SECOND: COOKING LESSONS FOR THE CHRISTMAS GBEDU!(1st December 2012 provisional). . .
THIRD: SEMINAR ON MAKING MONEY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY (husbands/fiances and kids welcome. Date TBC) . . ."

Please see here for details and to register your interest:
http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/10/socials-socials-socials.html

Please men should just put their hands up if they want to join this blog jor your own too much!

I know its not easy, I am the same way but just be patient. Besides girls are quicker at talking and boys at walking.

This is serious...

Firstly, why did you marry her?
Secondly, are you sure she lied about attending Anglican Church and raising the kids Catholic.
Third, did you attend marriage prep in the Catholic Church because for her to keep her faith a condition is to raise the kids Catholic, I believe. Maybe she did not know this before she promised?
Fourth, Catholic's have priests is this who has been calling her at odd hours in the night? What do you mean by 'odd hours'. If it is very late have you told her and him this is inappropriate?

In my mind divorce is always the last answer and most times is not an answer at all. If the big argument is she wants to raise the kids Catholic you don't have a problem. There are only a few differences between the two faiths and both are Christian after all. Will you instill the Anglican faith? If you know you wont have time for that, let her teach the kids the one she knows. They will turn out great. Don't let this be a pride thing abeg.

My only issue is your accusation of her possibly cheating. That is the only issue and you should take this up with her directly by finding out the truth and going to counselling if necessary. Not posting on NL.

There is no contraception that is 100%, the highest is 99%! There is no blame, a child is a blessing. So congrats, tell your hubby the good news - you are both extremely fertile and welcoming another life, another blessing.

Well at least he is working and supporting his family. Is anyone in the family complaining? Or everyone else is passing judgement?

Efemena_xy:

Lol! Ever heard the phrase, fear of the unknown?

It sort of puts them in check and stops them from acting naughty. I've used that threat several times and it works a treat - ALL THE TIME!

Lol. But seriously though I actually knew one of my secondary school classmates who kept getting that so-called "threat", eventually the threat became reality and he was sent home to Nigeria. He came back smarter and well behaved!

BUSH MAN: @ell77 oi! is this some kinda feministic thing.if you dont want men posting? it did say "housewives" which from my believe means married to man? husband(man)= housewive(woman)comprende?

Well at least you're funny. No this is not feminist, nor lesbian, nor cultist nor anything else negative. It is simply a social group/club for wives and mothers that utilises a blog to share tips and promote ourselves too. Men are welcome to a lot of the social events and constructive advice/inputs will not be shirked at.

My Sisters,

Money! What can we learn from our sisters in Nigeria?

Following on from introduction to "Money! What can we learn from our sisters in Nigeria?", here is the first topic to be addressed. Please let us know your thoughts! You will be pleased to know we have started with income sources:

1. INCOME WHILST YOU WORK:
SALARY
Of course the most popular source of income if you are in the UK is likely to be your salary. In many cases this is the biggest source of income or the only one. I'm going to talk you through 3 general routes to increasing your salary: 1, The Upwards move, 2, The Sidestep and 3, The Doubler!...

as minimum wages are £6.19 per hour, adding morning shifts of 10 hours per week would equate to an extra pre-tax salary of £3.5k per annum, adding weekend sales work of 14 hours per week would add £4.5k per annum. Worth considering even if only for a short term solution right?

SELF-EMPLOYMENT
Self-employment or entrepreneurship can be done alongside a full-time salaried role or in place of it...In the UK we are blessed with an abundance of help, the problem is knowing where the help is and opportunity. You could buy a franchise and banks are often willing to lend because of the proven business models. You could sell Avon products or Usbourne children's books. You could work from home or partner with someone through networking groups. This is an option that is often taken up by our sisters across the Atlantic in good old Naija, being themselves often business-savvy, but even more than this, having the opportunity and networks to grow their businesses well...

BONUSES/COMMISSIONS
Besides the bonuses you can obtain from your salaried employer by hitting targets individually or collectively ... A lot of youtubers do this by reviewing products via video...Door to door sales people earn money doing such selling Sky and earning commissions of £50+. Even if you personally use a service, often a provider of this service will advertise giving you commission to refer others. Find out more...

For the complete article click here:

http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/10/money-what-can-we-learn-from-our_15.html

Hi Ladies,

Following my post, there seems to be a lot more interest in the career/business session, followed by cooking and lastly the DIY spa!

Please let me know your preferences by filling the survey or commenting on the post (events that don't achieve minimum guest numbers by 10th November will be cancelled/rearranged, also please note events will be held in South East England - London/Dagenham):

"Socials Socials Socials!!
Hi Ladies,

So its that time of year again and with only 72 days left 'til Christmas, you may be thinking Christmas has come fast this year!?

So what are you going to do to make this Christmas day special for you and your family?

Well based on the feedback from our survey we now have 3 socials planned and all we need are guests!

FIRST: FREE SPA/MAKEOVER (24th November 2012 provisional) . . .
SECOND: COOKING FOR THE CHRISTMAS GBEDU!(1st December 2012 provisional). . .
THIRD: MAKING MONEY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY (husbands/fiances and kids welcome. Date TBC) . . ."

Please see here for details and to register your interest:
http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/10/socials-socials-socials.html

Johndoe100: This is a wonderful idea, just be sure to tell all the "gushing members" how much you stand to make when the blog gets traction and you start to sell advert space. By the way getting the mugus members to build content that others have to pay up to $40 per article to writers to create is a wonderful idea. Are you going to pay them for the content? Will they own the copywrite to the content or you get that for free as well?

They are naive, not all of us are.

Wow.

I really am surprised at some people. First of all this is on the family section and is aimed at wives and mothers so I don't expect men to be posting here. If you feel like you are excluded or left out I am sorry but looking at some of your signatures i.e. Johndoe100's "If God wanted all women to be happy he would have made all men like me", it looks like you don't want women to be happy anyway.

If you upload a video on youtube do they pay you or drag copyright with you? If you post an entry about your business on wikipedia again, do they pay you or fight for copyrights?

Ok bros. Nairaland, this forum, this thread, wey you post for na, dem pay you to do so? Cos dem no pay me oh! Dem drag copyright with you? Cos dem no pay me so o! Case in point!

The truth of the matter is, I just started this blog on the 2nd of October and I am already populating the blog myself and getting traffic. I can quite confidently populate this entire blog myself as I am not writing about rocket science but about issues I myself face as a wife and mother: I have merely opened it up to others to write also to give my sisters a voice. Nobody is forced to write you can join to read or go to socials only and that is what I expect 99% of viewers to do.

Those that choose to post however, can talk about issues or topic they feel they know well and in doing so provide links to their own personal blogs or advertise their own business or skills. It really is as honest and clear as that. There are many people who stand to profit from advertising their skills free of charge through videos and posts on this blog and just like my fellow youtubers did, they too stand to gain a lot from this. I am happy to help in this way. I am most interested in the socials part myself especially the 3 upcoming ones and if I can post my own business adverts here and it helps market my own business; this is how I personally will benefit too. I encourage others to do the same.

I really wonder why some people are in the family section of this forum

Anyway!!!

[size=18pt]Socials Socials Socials!![/size]
Hi Ladies,

So its that time of year again and with only 72 days left 'til Christmas, you may be thinking Christmas has come fast this year!?

So what are you going to do to make this Christmas day special for you and your family?

Well based on the feedback from our survey we now have 3 socials planned and all we need are guests!

FIRST: FREE SPA/MAKEOVER (24th November 2012 provisional) . . .
SECOND: COOKING FOR THE CHRISTMAS GBEDU!(1st December 2012 provisional). . .
THIRD: MAKING MONEY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY (husbands/fiances and kids welcome date TBC) . . .

Please see here for details:
http://realnaijwife..co.uk/2012/10/socials-socials-socials.html