Subscribe now

But beyond all the bad PR men often get, I have been blessed, truly blessed, with some good, solid, steady, golden men. The men in my life bring me just as much joy as my female friendships. They’ve shown up for me, supported me, watched me grow, and helped me become better.

So today, on International Men’s Day, I just want to say a big thank you to every single man who has been good to me and has impacted my life in a positive way. I see you. I appreciate you. And I’m grateful for you.

Quick disclaimer; I might not be able to mention every single one of you but know that I am grateful to know you and have you in my life.❤

To the one who showed me the beauty of having a united family, both nuclear and extended, and taught me how to open my hands to people while still applying wisdom.
To the one who goes out of his way for his children, driving us wherever we need to be so we don’t have to take public transport when he’s available.
To the one who provides for my needs even when it stretches him, the one who cheers me on silently and loudly… I could go on and on, the list is endless. Even though we may argue once every ninety days(lol), you mean the world to me.
Thank you for being an amazing father, a loving husband, and a truly good man.
I love you, Dad.

Growing up, aside from my parents, my favourite person was my grandfather. He’s late now, but he shaped my life in ways that still echo today. It didn’t feel right to celebrate the men who’ve helped me grow without including him in this story.
Thank you, Grandpa. You remain a legend even after your passing, such a great man.

My elder brother is, without a doubt, one of the biggest influences on who I am today. His generosity annoys me sometimes, because he shows up for everyone, not just the people he loves but even strangers and forgets to put himself first on some days. But honestly, it’s quite sweet to see how kind he is.
You know those people who never gatekeep, who put you on and want everyone around them to grow? That’s my brother. And the world truly needs more people like him. I obviously can’t list every single thing that makes you such a good man, but thank you for being a blessing to me.
…share your problems with me more often, okay?😌
I love you.💕

Share

To my friends:

Feranmi, the one I fondly call my dearest Sims.
You’re an amazing man. You are so intentional, so thoughtful, and so caring. It’s been eight solid years of knowing you, and not once has your kindness dimmed, not even by an atom. You’re genuinely one of the sweetest people I know.
Thank you for always matching my energy and showing up for me without hesitation. My favourite owanbe host, I’m rooting for you now and always!

Emmanuel, I know the world has taken so much from you, but here’s something these past years have taught me: a good person will always remain a good person, no matter what life throws at them. You check up on me even on days when you don’t have to, and that means more than you know. It takes a lot to maintain a friendship with someone you’ve known since age six or thereabout, yet you, my friend, my “adopted brother” as I call you, have remained consistently amazing. Your testimony will be loud, and I’ll be right here cheering you on every step of the way.

Debayo, scratch that, Dr. Adebayo, one of my precious UI gifts.
Thank you for always checking up on me. I know adulthood is currently taking a toll on our friendship, but I absolutely love that whenever we reconnect, we pick up right where we left off without missing a beat. Thank you for always rooting for me; it truly means a lot. I dey for you, always.

Tunde, my senator (in Esther’s voice), my homeboy!
I’ll never forget how you followed me to register for tutorials during the year that felt like a gap year in my life. Thank you for all those moments, for showing up for me so effortlessly, without stress or complaints. I love to see the amazing brand you’re building. I’ve always known you’re a top boy, so my dear friend, I’ll see you forever at the top doing great things. You used to be just a five-minute walk away, now you’re miles apart. I miss you, see you soon!

Peace, Barrister A. Honestly, I’ve been thinking of what to say. You know those friendships where you don’t exactly have to do too much? That’s us. I may not talk to you every day, but somehow, I always know you’re there, one of my most reliable friends. You show up for me, you care without being asked, and you consistently inspire me to chase every dream I dare to dream, indirectly and directly, simply by watching how you pursue yours. Even when the journey is rough, you still find a way to make your vision come alive. You’re probably the one friend who stresses me the most lol, but beyond that, thank you for being good to me. It means a lot. I’m forever rooting for you!

Ola, when I talk about men who have impacted my life, your name will always show up. Thank you for the extra push, the one that felt like sweet, gentle pressure and sometimes… the hard kind too. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: thank you for seeing the vision of me being a writer before I fully embraced it. It’s been a while, I hope life has been good to you.

Anjy, I genuinely enjoy our conversations, how we talk about life and everything in between. Thank you for constantly checking on my wellbeing. I’m extremely proud of you and how hard you work. I pray everything turns out beautifully for you. You really do deserve the very best.

Daniel, my gee. It’s crazy how we somehow created a safe space for each other. I love how you always root for me. Thank you for all the spicy, juicy gist, it makes the world feel lighter with a good laugh. You’re such a sweet and caring friend, always looking out for me, praying for me, reminding me that I’m doing well, and encouraging me often. I’m really rooting for you, Dan. And you already know I’m always here for you.

Nat, countries apart, yet still one of my good friends. Thank you for all these years. I’m proud of how far you’ve come. Always in your corner, even though you think I can be very annoying (lol!).

Kenny, my warrior. You inspire me so much. Your resilience and strength, even in the middle of chaos, are deeply encouraging. Thank you for always showing up for me. You know I’m always rooting for you.

And the list goes on; Godswill (Wilex), Adeoluwa, Rae Timzy, Fuhad, Matt, Adedayo, KD…
My egbons and cousins; Tooni, Matluck, Fola, Adewale…

…and so many more.

Share Temiloluwa.O’s Substack

Each of you carries a piece of my journey, a part of my story, a reflection of love that has shaped me.

Thank you for every single kindness you’ve shown me and for being woven into my journey.

Today, I celebrate you, for believing in me, praying for me, pushing me forward, caring for me… the list is endless.

Keep being amazing. Keep being a force for good. Keep being strong. Keep making impact and big waves.🥂

…and just before I end this, I know life might be tough sometimes, and often you’re expected to “man up”, to hold everything together, to stay strong even when it feels like the world is pulling you in different directions. But please remember this: you’re human before anything else. You’re allowed to feel, to rest, to ask for help, and to slow down when life feels heavy. Strength isn’t in pretending; it’s in allowing yourself to breathe, to heal, and to keep going at your own pace.

Above all, when you need someone to count on or a little safe space, I’ll be here, to listen, to pray, and to offer the moral support you need.💕

Love you guys so much!✨🌹💕

Leave a comment

PS: I tried to send this out before the day ended, but I couldn’t meet up…apologies.

About a week ago, I randomly came across a tweet on my timeline, it was her birthday wish list. Honestly, it struck me as so modest that I paused and thought, “This wish list is so demure.” You’ll probably agree once you see the image attached below. Right away, I thought to tick something off the list. I reached out to ask if she’d be open to a blog post, and with her consent, this piece was born.

Now that the backstory’s out of the way, let’s dive into the heart of the matter.

Akeju Abigail Monisola, popularly known as Moni, is the founder and creative director of Moni Designz; a thriving print and branding company based in Ibadan with a growing global reach. The award-winning print store has served over 4,000 businesses, delivering quality branding and packaging materials that help businesses stand out in the market.

In a recent post and a feature interview with Cowrywise, Moni shared the humble beginnings of her brand. Moni Designz officially launched in October 2019, and interestingly, it began as what she described as “a joke.” She started the business to prove a point to a male colleague who had told her printing was a man’s world. He even went as far as betting ₦50,000 that she wouldn’t last a year. Fast-forward nearly six years, Moni has not only proven him wrong but has built a brand with over 28,000 followers on Instagram, breaking stereotypes and setting standards in the industry.

Moni often credits her mother as a major influence on her entrepreneurial journey. A highly successful businesswoman herself, Moni’s mom made her mark at Owode Market by becoming the first to import tailoring materials from China, an innovative move that drew significant attention. Growing up around such enterprise, Moni absorbed invaluable lessons in business, resilience, and innovation, which have greatly shaped her own path as a founder.

Moni Designz specializes in helping small and large-scale businesses elevate their visual identity. From packaging and promotional materials to event branding and general print design, whether it’s a wedding, seminar, trade fair, or corporate event, Moni Designz has become a go-to brand for excellence and reliability.

To celebrate her birthday and honor the incredible impact of her work, I reached out to a few clients I’ve personally referred to her, and even slid into the DMs of some of her customers, to ask three simple questions about their experience with Moni and what they love most about her brand. Here's what they had to say…

Share

What is that one thing you enjoy about Moni Designz’s service? Tell us your experience.

Kokobeauty

I like that they’re able to create catchy designs and almost replicate what you envision your packaging to be like.

EverythingbyNinii

The customer service!!! I remember texting her back in 2023 asking for suggestions on my brand logo and she was so calm and welcoming to shed light on things for me with her knowledge. I also love the policy they have as regards taking to corrections and when they are at fault, they accept with no struggle and apologize right away.

Yourfavejewels.ng

One thing I enjoy about Monidesignz’s service is the patience that she has and then imbibed into her customer reps. I remember the last time I patronized her. I got thank you cards and mailer bags. I was very specific about what I wanted, and all through, they were very patient with me. Changing what I wanted and even asking if there’s any more changes I would like . Her customer service is exceptional!

Deemah_hair

I love the fact that she is always reachable… I love the way she handles customer service and settle issues. I once had a dispute with the logistics people, she kept calling to know if I have gotten my goods and also kept apologizing on their behalf.

Gifted gift

Professional customer service.

Esa

I enjoy how she responds to messages and how she makes sure she sends her working time frame and all that ensure a smooth buyer to seller conclusion.

Buzzit Fashion

One thing I absolutely enjoy about Monidesignzz is the generosity that comes with every interaction. I’ve received thoughtful free gifts with my orders, and I even won a giveaway she sponsored(a packaging voucher for my business). I also like the valuable business advice and talks she shares on her Instagram story from time to time. They’re insightful and show how genuinely wants others to grow.

Over the years, what would you rate your own customer service experience on a scale of 10. (10 being the very best, 1 being the poorest.)

Kokobeauty

I’ll rate her customer service a good 9. And this is because their location is very far from mine, and delivery is usually high. However I’ll keep going back to her because the service is good and she own up to the brand’s mistakes and always finds a way to rectify it. 👌

EverythingbyNinii

I would give an eight (8).

Yourfavejewel.ng

I would rate it a 9. I’ve been patronizing Monidesignz for close to 3 years now, and she has maintained and even improved her customer service. I’m rating it a 9 because I believe that there is always more, but she is wonderful the way she is now.

Gifted Gift

7/10

Deemah_hair

I’m rating her 10/10 ooo she’s good abeg.

Esa

8/10

Buzzit Fashion

8/10

Say a birthday prayer for Moni of Monidesignz.

Kokobeauty

Happy birthday Moni of Monidesignzz, I wish you the very best as you continue to grow in strength and wisdom. I pray God grants and fulfills your heart desires and unlocks new amazing chapters and opportunities for you. Amen.🙏

EverythingbyNinii

I pray God continues to bless her beyond measure and the works of her hand. 🙏

Yourfavejewel.ng

I pray that her business continues to blossom. And just as I always pray whenever I patronize her, may God continue to give her innovative ideas and approaches to business in Jesus name.❤

Gifted Gift

Happy birthday Monidesignz, may the good Lord perfect all that concerns you. Amen.🙏

Deemah Hair

Happy birthday CEO Monidesignz!🎉 I pray the Lord prospers you on all sides…may you never lose your relevance ma. Cheers to many more years in good health and more success.

Esa

Happy birthday Moni, as I fondly call you, your money saving tips are a live saver, you’re such an amazing and beautiful woman!! Your skin gosh! And I pray the Lord continually bless you in all ramifications and expand your business!

Buzzit Fashion

Happy birthday, Moni! I pray that God blesses you abundantly in this new year of your life. May Monidesignz continue to flourish beyond your expectations. May your creativity never run dry, and may favor, wisdom, and new opportunities locate you daily. I pray for strength, joy and divine connections that will elevate both you and your brand.

• For your small and large scale print needs, Moni designz is your sure plug.

• Kindly follow @Moni Designz on all socials.

Final Note to Moni:
I hope this piece ticked off at least three wishes from your birthday list! I truly admire your tenacity and look forward to doing even more business with you in the future. Thank you for sometimes sharing insights from your journey, the lessons you’ve learned(the list), the finance tips, and your honest reflections have been incredibly valuable.

I’m wishing you a year overflowing with abundance, growth, and divine guidance. May the Lord continue to walk with you every step of the way as you build and sustain a brand known for excellence and outstanding customer service.

Happy birthday, Moni of MoniDesignz! Here’s to an amazing year ahead! 🎉

With love from Temi of 1704byThemmie.💜

Leave a comment

"If you're reading this, it means we pushed through all the obstacles that delayed this piece from being published last week."

For International Women's Day 2025, we chose to celebrate the voices of women by gathering their perspectives through a set of thought-provoking questions. The responses we received were truly inspiring, and we can’t wait for you to read them all below. As we honor this day, we remain hopeful and committed to continuous progress and meaningful change in the lives of women everywhere.

What Does IWD Mean to You?

B.

To me, it’s a day to celebrate women, and all fight to be treated fairly, equally, justly.

Riioluwa

IWD is a day where women are spotlighted on. A day to appreciate women of all ages. A day where every woman should sit down, and just love up on her own existence, think of her part in the world we are in and how much she has contributed to making it better.

Tee

It means acknowledging the importance of women and the barriers that we have to break for women of present and future generations.

Evelyn

It is a day that has been set apart to celebrate every women on earth regardless of their background.

Ajoke

It means celebrating women all over the world, and appreciating the value of every woman.

Lolu

A day set aside to celebrate women of all ethnicity, age, race and background. It is of significance because we need days such as this to elucidate on the intricacies of being a woman, and other things that come with it which we don’t say often.

Subscribe now

Do you have a circle of female friends? If yes, how has the experience been?

Bibi

It has been wonderful, and gladly one of the best things in my life.

Evelyn

It has been beautiful especially with our different stories that seems to inspire us and help us to draw more strength even in times of weaknesses.

Lolu

A safe place, a wondrous experience. A ground for learning and relearning. Someplace that’s free from judgement, where I can just be me.

Tee

It’s been wholesome. I’m glad that I met the most amazing set of humans who inspire me, believe in my potential, see me, even when I don’t want to be seen. They care for me. Strengthen me. I love them. With my whole.

Ajoke

It has been amazing, but also challenging.

Riioluwa

I didn’t start off my life with female friends. I was mostly in the midst of boys and I just sort of ‘disliked’ the female friendships because I always found a fault in female company. “Oh! they keep malice”, “oh, they don’t want you to shine”, that was me before I met people who actually outdid themselves willingly, out of genuine love. It has actually been good, just because it’s the good set of people.

B.

My female friends are truly special. They make me understand that genuine female friendships is all you need sometimes. The honesty, show of support, kindness makes my heart warm.

Who is a woman that has inspired you, and why?

Tee

My mom. The way she pushes through life is stunning. She juggles being a teacher, and a mother of six with so much energy that it looks effortless. I adore her so much. She inspires me to do and become anything I want to be.

Sisipelebe

My mom - she has shown me what resilience looks like and never giving up. She’s a strong woman and very hardworking.

AY.

My mom; she’s an achiever.

B.

Okonjo Iwela - coming from my field of study and going on to achieve such height of greatness just reassures me of the possibilities and heights I can get to irrespective of my gender.

Evelyn

My mother. She is the first woman I know. She has done a lot to keep us going especially when I tried to commit suicide. My mum has never for once told me I am a failure even when others did. She believed in me even when I just can’t see it.

Ajoke

Ibukun Awosika - She’s a woman I deeply admire for her vision and strength. She has been a constant source of inspiration; financially, spiritually, and mentally. Her teachings and books have reminded me that I am limitless.

Lolu

My mom. She embodies strength so much. She is very self reliant and graceful, shows me many things a woman has capacity for. She enriches my mind and through her, I see anything is possible.

Riioluwa

So many women have inspired me, but the closest one is my mother. I never even think or dream of not reaching my utmost potential, I wouldn’t even dare because I’m hovered by a mother who dared to break free. I remember her saying that her children will never grow the way she did or live the life she lived growing. This woman is the best picture of possibility for me. She’s a blessed woman, doing great things and going places. There’s a lot to say but my mother did stop at nothing, so who am I to say I can’t?

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman navigating life?

Oluwaferanmi

Work on yourself and be a person of value.

Julliet

I have to bring out the best in myself, learn more about myself and grow.

Riioluwa

To find myself first! My God, this particular thing has changed the course of my life. Back then, I thought my identity had to be tied to someone or a situation before it could make sense but it never felt like it. Until I got to know me and see from the clearest lens. Now I can define my boundaries, I know where I’m going to, I know what I deserve and what I’ll never settle for. I realized I’m the biggest determinant of what happens in my life and I’m never going to leave it to chance.

Bibi

I’ve learned that there’s absolutely no way one won’t face obstacles, it’s left to me to overcome it, stay true to myself and embrace growth along the way.

Tee

As a woman, it won’t come to you easy. There will be doubt and strife along the way. People will ridicule you but should that you? Hell no. Prove them wrong but remember that it isn’t about the people. It is about you. Who you affirm yourself to be. So yes, do it for you.

B.

Put in the work, make the most of your relationships, always be the one to add value.

Sisipelebe

You have to stand against all odds especially in a male dominated field, if not you’d be overlooked.

Share

What’s a book, movie or podcast that every woman should check out?

B.

Movie - “Equity”

Ajoke

Movie - “Smart Money Woman”

Bibi

The Six Triple Eight

Lolu

Book - “A woman is no man.”

Oluwaferanmi

Podcast - “To my sisters”, “Working hard, hardly working”

Tee

Podcast - “You can rest here.” -Mazino Malaka’s podcast.

Riioluwa

Movie - “Smart Money Woman”, “Hidden Figures”, “Monalisa Smile”

Book - “Becoming by Michelle Obama”

Share Temiloluwa.O’s Substack

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young girls aspiring to break barriers?

Tee

Everybody has wild dreams. Yours aren’t invalid so chase them!

B.

I cannot overemphasize the need to lock in and be the best at your craft.

AY.

Cliched but you can actually do anything you want to!

Lolu

Go girllllll!!!! There are gazillions of us aspiring to break barriers too. You’re not alone. We’re not looking back, we’re determined, we’re prayerful, we’re God seekers, we’re by no chance a minority. I hope with every fiber of my being that you become the woman you want to be.

Bibi

To always believe in themselves and never doubt that they can achieve their goals with determination. Staying confident, keep learning, and surrounding themselves with supportive mentors who inspire and guide them.

How has the perception of women’s roles changed in society over the years?

Bibi

Things have changed significantly, and in a positive way! We may not be completely there yet, but where we are now is definitely a step in the right direction.

Riioluwa

I think there’s a gradual evolution that has come with it. We are beginning to get past the spoken and unspoken barriers and stereotypes against woman. Though I don’t think a good number of the population has gotten the memo or are ready to do away with their traditional mindset but it’s evident in a number of our industries and frontlines that women are getting a seat for themselves too.

Lolu

It’s better, thanks to women who wouldn’t stop talking and seeking and writing and documenting and living no ordinary lives that yearn and seek for equality. Although, in small corners it’s still there. Some ugly menace that refused to die (keep quiet, I’ll only speak to your husband.)

B.

I think it has gotten better than a couple of years, tbf. However, we still have a long way to go.

Evelyn

It has tremendously changed especially now that we see women standing tall in the society without the need to be limited to the kitchen unlike the older generation. Women are now bold enough to choose the life they want.

Tee

I believe that in the past, everyone had a say in where women belonged; be it the kitchen, or in her husband’s house, not in school, home by 8pm. Now, things are changing. We, as a society, are starting to fight for women’s rights and roles in the same society.

How do you hope to be remembered, and what legacy do you hope to leave for future generation?

Lolu

That I fought. That I’m strong. That I searched for God with all my heart, and I found Him. That I lived, I loved with all my heart and that I will be. Through the lives of women I would have touched, through the people I exchanged glances with, the smiles I gave, I’ll live still.

Riioluwa

Well, one of it relation to IWD is that; I want to be able to bridge the gap and difference in the female gender. We should get to the point where we truly support ourselves and be our biggest cheerleader!

Oluwaferanmi

I just want to build generational wealth with my husband.

B.

I hope to inspire the next generation of finance ladies. To be a thought leader in my field, ultimately.

Evelyn

I hope to be remembered as the lady who God used to bring others out of their fears and step into the light of their true calling.

AY.

The wealthiest farmer that fed people.

Bibi

As someone who thrived in what she chooses to do, being a successful woman as well as well someone who inspires and empowers others to break barriers.

Tee

I hope to be remembered as a woman who LIVED. A woman who was so full of happiness that she radiates and shares this little of joys of her in her career and life. I want to help women through healthcare. By erasing the stigma around reproductive health, I want to be remembered as someone who did the work and contributed in the path of change for women.

PS: A big shoutout to all the women who contributed to this piece, thank you for taking the time to be a part of the IWD article. Your voices, experiences, and insights continue to inspire and pave the way for change. Here’s to celebrating you today and always! 💜✨

Today’s song: Woman to Woman - Simi

Leave a comment

What’s the most thoughtful thing you’ve done for someone you love?

Ajoke

I forgave a betrayal wholeheartedly.

Miss B.

A couple of things, actually, I’m a sweet woman and I like love. But let me share one that I find both thoughtful and hilarious. My then-boyfriend was going through a tough time no job, life hitting from all angles so I did a three day fast and prayer just for him. 🤣

Anjy

I really don’t know, I’ve done a lot (1) Gifts (2) Prayer e.t.c…

Riioluwa

I gave them access to me, an amazing child for real. Is that not enough? Just kidding!

Hmmm…Several things but here is one, I stayed up helping an ill relative all night just to ensure they sleep.

Emma

I keep them in my prayers and genuinely look forward to seeing them thrive in all they do.

Jtech

I got them a gift.

Subscribe now

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve done for love?

Anjy

I waited for a whole year to date a girl. She had said she wasn’t ready at first, so I waited a whole year. Weird sturvvvv!

Uhmmm

I missed my after school lessons to go and chat with a boyyy. 😭😂

Riioluwa

Well, in my ignorant days, I volunteered to take some strokes of cane for someone, even though the punishment was solely theirs. What hurt me was that no one consoled me when I started crying because they didn’t send me work. 😭

David

Lol… My girl scratch that, my ex-girlfriend, and I broke up, and I still didn’t disconnect her from using my card for over six months. I was stupidly still in love. The matter long!

F.O

I don’t know if this is weird, but I borrowed someone more than half of my savings. Never again.😭

Share

If you could leave a message for someone, what would it be?

Emmanuel

Leaving this for myself; it does get better.💗

Ajoke

Parenting is real work and it starts from us as individuals. We must be conscious of the person we’re becoming in order not to repeat patterns.

Jtech

Be happy, everything is going to be alright.

Riioluwa

I just want to say that, you are doing so great. I know we don’t have it figured out yet, but we aren’t doing bad at all. Also, I can’t wait to shake the universe with you!