In this edition, we interview Toyin Osunlaja, Head of the Data Insights & Analysis Department for Africa Prudential PLC. A jovial man with a sarcastic streak to him, this executive graciously granted us the time to interview him. Enjoy the read!
What’s the deal with men? (Why are men like this?)
Answer: **takes a deep breath** – I’m pretty sure I’d get cancelled or dragged on social media for this anyway, men run the world as against Beyoncé’s hit track. Men are quite logical in the way they approach anything and just want to have peace. I repeat Peace. That being said, I’d end with a popular lyric from a James Brown song “This is a man’s world. But it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl” **He sings**
What does it mean to ‘Man Up’?
Answer: *inserts smiley biceps* The get-ready-for-battle stance, it is obviously not the time to show any form of weakness or frailty. Bringing your chest out with your gorilla pose (mentally), you are determined to surmount any obstacles at that moment. Irrespective of gender, I believe everybody can ‘Man up’.
Care to explain or ‘mansplain’ the concept of bromance?
Answer: An exclusive concept that has to do with the male gender. It celebrates the importance of close male friendships and companionship or in short ” a brother from another mother”.
Write an open letter to a man or men in general.
Answer: Na only love letter we dey write! Dear Men, the world is changing so fast before our very eyes. We must continue to embrace our authentic selves and celebrate the core of our masculinity. For those struggling out there, it is never too late to get help. One love my brother. **bumps knuckles**
How do you deal with financial pressure?
Answer: I depend on God really… because on my own, na die. However, I must say discipline and transparency have helped me tackle the pressure. No matter how little, I try to invest, or at least save.
What is your greatest ‘Bro’ moment?
Answer: To be fair, there is no such thing as a “greatest bro” moment, it can’t and shouldn’t be measured. Anything done from a genuine place no matter how little it may seem (from your “bro”) is definitely one I call great. (e.g. sending endless memes on Instagram).
How do you ‘head’ the home?
Answer: I was fortunate to have a wonderful father (bless his soul). He truly set an excellent precedent for all of us. With love, respect, and humility, I lead my family to greatness.
Health is wealth, how do you deal?
Answer: I rarely fall ill because I think I eat the sickness away. Stress is a major contributor to illness, so I understand my body and ensure I “stuff” my stomach with the needed food to combat the stress. Different things work for different people, but I advise you to find yours and it should be healthy. It’s only a healthy man that can be wealthy.
