Work experience with Pride Magazine

I have been gone for 1 year and now I'm ready to commit to this blog and bring the best content.

The first experience I would like to share with you, is my two weeks if work experience with Pride Magazine.

It was my first ever work experience and I enjoyed working there and managed to produce content for their online publication.  I learnt what goes on behind the scenes like transcribing an interview, answering phone calls & transferring print to online. My supervisor, Nicole was such a great mentor and helped me understand the morals of being a journalist.

From this experience I am hoping to further my skills and work in other places such as ASOS & New Look. I'm taking one step at a tine, as I am in no rush to commit. Check out the links that I produced below and let me know what you think.

 http://pridemagazine.com/2018/02/new-music-friday-jeorgia-lion-babe-zeo-taya-normani-khalid/
http://pridemagazine.com/2018/02/idris-elba-engaged/
http://pridemagazine.com/2018/02/mathew-knowles-beyonce-colorism/

February goals

January passed by quick & even though I was meant to go back on plan with Slimming World, I admit that I failed. But that's in the past & now I'm ready to give February my whole attention. Starting with goals that I am going to acknowledge everyday to make sure that I'm on the right track

1. Go the the gym 4/5 week

Last year I was a saint when it came to going to the gym, I'd be in the gym almost everyday because I had nothing better to do, but the last 6 months of 2016 I let myself down and lost my motivation as well as I couldn't afford the gym. But now I'm ready to kill this month & lose a few pounds

2. 7 posts on blog

My blog is always running up & down, so I would like to commit to doing more posts & being active on social media to grow my audience.

3. Plan meals wisely

When it comes to food prep, I'm a genius. But sometimes I let myself get away with certain treats such as biscuits, which is a big no.no!

4. Begin assignments early

As I study Magazine Journalism, I'm quite kucky as I have no exams however I do have essays that I need to complete and sometimes I leave it wait to late that I'm not sure what I can add for improvement. If I start early I can improve and adapt a better understanding of my wrirting as well as being creative. 

5. Drink more water
I used to be amazing with drinking water, but have become so lazy and just not bothered. But this month I'm ready to get back on it & be better

My paintballing experience

On November 2016, for my friend's 22nd birthday we decided to go paintballing. I thought it would be a great adventure, considering it was my first time and something different for a change. But I was wrong because for me it turned out to be such a crazy moment that I wan't ready for. I'm not going to lie, I am competitive but the activity left my body in bruises making me not want to do it again. My advice is leave it to the boys, of course unless your a girl who likes to play rough then I say go for it!!! But other than that I definitely don't regret doing it, one thing that I want to do more of is experience things that I normally wouldn't go for. To try some crazy stuff, that I can say that I did.

Hollywood Bowl Southampton

Southampton friends you're in luck because bowling has landed in our City & I'm here to fill you in with all the gossip on the hottest new activity. Well, it's been a long time coming but Southampton is becoming a social hangout, with all the amazing restaurants opening as part of the West Quay project.


I had the opportunity to attend an amazing event at Hollywood Bowl, where I experienced a great laugh. This was my first ever event & I was super excited, to meet other bloggers. It's been like 3 years since I last went bowling so I totally suck but as the game went on I got better

I definitely recommend taking a trip down to Hollywood Bowl, it's a fun activity for the whole family & is a great spot to hangout this Valentine's day. If you're a huge fan of America, then you'll love the inspired theme. Marilyn Monroe was even there! The food is amazing, especially the popcorn chicken.
If you're interested in learning more why not go & check their website for more info!

              http://www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/

Ultimate Goal of 2017!

Hiya Lovelies, feels good to be posting after a while. My first post of 2017, is my motivation to go back to a healthy lifestyle while maintaining the gym, & finally reach my goal.

My intentions this year started of really well because I was dedicated to the gym & following the Slimming World lifestyle well. Unfortunately in the last 5 months, I have been off plan, as I've found myself unmotivated and not going to the gym.

That's in the past, I'm ready to begin 2017 with a new mindset!

The picture on the bottom is me at my lightest eight of 11 stone 6Ibs.Let's do this! P.S don't mind the knickers, they were big on me as I'd lost weight. What are you goals for this year?

Our Dream Destination has arrived!!!

Us Girls deserve our Barbie world. Well I'm excited to announce that one of my favourite online clothes shop has opened it's first flagship store, the Missguided boutique which is based in Manchester opened to the public on the 23rd November in London. The store follows a Mermaid & unicorn theme which inspires girl power. The boutique is one of a kind, it's the perfect place to hang out with your squad. If they held sleepovers in the store I would be there every night. You can't go wrong with diamonds, glitter, pink, unicorns or mermaids. Girls, if you want to treat yourself this Christmas and don't trust yourself shopping online, you know the perfect place to be.  My favourite clothing would have to be the leather because it represents dangerous attitude. 

So what you waiting for, if your in London make your way to Westfield Stratford shopping centre and you won't be disappointed. After all for your own well being follow their motto, Eat, Pray, Slay!!! Can I just mention the tunes played in this store are freakin' bomb, just my style. R'n'B, Rap, cool & collected

Dreamgirls Live!!!

If you know me by now you would know that I am a lover of musicals, which is why when I heard Dreamgirls was coming live to stage, I fell on my knees. Then I heard Glee star, Amber Riley was taking on the role of 'Effie,' that made me even more excited. On the 28th November 2016 with one of my bestie's Elyce, I had the privilege of experiencing one of my favourite musicals. Dreamgirls. Everything about it was beautiful, everyone suited their part really well. Other than the gorgeous Amber Riley, my favourite character to watch was 'Jimmy Early' who was portrayed by Adam J Bernard he has such a great voice and gave me laughs throughout the whole performance.

Coming from an African background it was great to see people of colour taking the centre stage, because let's be honest in theatre there aren't many roles written for people of colour. Okay moving on to Amber Riley she slayed her role, couldn't be more happier for her. Her energy, enthusiasm, attittude was brought to life that even the audience were giving a standing ovation throughout the performance. Not once was there a dull moment, my eyes were peeled to the stage. There is no criticism to be made, only wish they included 'I love you I do' which is one of my favourite songs.
If your planning on traveling to London and would like recommendations on what places to visit, I recommend the theatre, and Dreamgirls especially because I'm not sure how long it will be running for. So now all I have to do is convince my bank account to buy another ticket, so I can watch it AGAIN NEXT YEAR!

Okay so totally didn't expect to bump into the cast at the end of the show but they were so lovely and even took a picture with me. This is Liisi LaFontaine who plays 'Beyonce's part' Deena. Was unable to get one Amber Riley but still managed to catch her presence. #Dreamgirl for life.

Body Goals

It's approaching towards the end of June, which means it's Summertime (well sort of) & I am pushing for my 2 stone award through July. What's really getting me in the mood for gym lately is my Body inspirations. Got to love Dinah Jane, Jordyn Woods & Jordin Sparks. I have many more that I crush on but these girlies are my latest beauty obsessions. Of course I have my own body, but these beauties make me want to push harder for the figure I admire. They all resemble curvy in some sort of way and have a slim waistline.

1/5 of Fifth Harmony, Polynesian beauty Dinah Jane.


















                             

Rising plus size model, Jordyn woods.

American idol winner 2007, Jordyn Sparks.

5 things I did to survive my 1st year of uni

Hey everyone how's it going? So finally finished my 1st year of uni and thought I would share my thoughts for people who were wondering what's it like living away from home

1) Cooking
I am part of the Slimming World group, so I have learnt to cook all my own meals. When I was living at home I was so used to my mother cooking for me. But following recipes online and reading packet instructions has made me realize that cooking is quite easy. I enjoy doing it and definitely will have to try and persuade my mum to let me cook a meal for the family. My favourite meal that I have made has to be the prawn special fried rice, I'm a lover of Chinese Takeaway, so it's definitely a healthier alternative. Also easy meals such as boiled plantain and super noodles have become regulars in my diet. Super filling and free on my diet plan.

2) Find a hobby
I study Magazine Journalism, and in my 1st year it has been quite steady. I was only doing about 8 hours a week. So when I wasn't in Uni I would spend my other time at the gym or working at GBK. It just makes it easier as a routine and you find yourself less in your room. My 2nd term of uni was really quiet, especially during the Easter break where I decided to stay in Southampton. As work wasn't as busy I found myself with less hours and all my friends had left to spend Easter with their families. I definitely recommend joining a society or having a job, just make yourself part of something so you don't find yourself sleeping or constantly in the books 24/7.

3) Limiting my money
I know this sounds like a pain, especially to those are spendaholics. It's helps if you spend your money on things you need rather than want. Obviously if you have a job that's a different story, you can spend your money however you like. But what saved me into not going into overdraft (like a few of my friends) is surviving on £20 a week for weekly shopping. because I cooked batch meals, it wasn't a problem for me, I didn't mind having the same breakfast, lunch & dinner throughout the whole week. As it meant I didn't have to worry about cooking if I was tired or snack out of place because my food was taking long to cook.

4) Handing in my assignments on time
Okay I admit I am guilty, one of my assignments was handed in late but other than that I manged to meet the deadlines. Getting it out the way means you have less to worry about.

5) Visiting the family
It's natural to get homesick. This is what happened with me, so I made trips to London two times while I was at uni for the 8 months period. I was lonely sometimes and being around the family reminded me of why I am doing this.

Transformation 2013 vs.2016

This top picture was me at my prom in 2013, I'd say I probably started gaining weight when I was 14. Not sure if I was at my heaviest here. I haven't taken many photos of me over the years so this is the best I could find.  I absolutely love this dress, but the hardest part was being able to find a dress that would fit my bust and that I would feel comfortable in. I hardly wear dresses not because I don't like them but because I am insecure about my weight and how it looks. Slimming world has given me a whole new confidence and I am certain  I will not be worried to experiment new styles because I will feel great within the inside. I want to be more girly and wear skirts, make up and try out more fashions, especially being a blogger and all. This was the most I dressed up in my entire life.

The picture on the bottom is me now, after hitting my 1.5 stone award (finally, yay) I love how with this dress I can't see my belly popping and it feels so fitted and comfortable. I am so excited to buy more new clothes. The camouflage detailed dress is from New Look and I am wearing it in a size 14 (normally I'd wear a size 16), I was surprised it fit me to be honest. I already feel most of my jeans getting loose.

When you're young the last thing you're thinking about is losing weight because who wants to be on a diet while their friends are munching on chicken & chips? you're not educated on how your body works and not mentally ready to take the challenge of losing weight. Of course my mum did try and help me multiple times but I put on an attitude and sometimes would often sneak food into my room. Now that I am 21, I am fully in control of what goes into my body and how I treat it. I enjoy going to the gym, dancing and making slimming world friendly meals. I may have a long way to go but knowing the journey will make me stronger, healthier and fitter makes me determined. I will keep you updated, be sure to be following me so you can keep up with my progress. Every week I will start to take progress photos or at least everytime I lose 7Ibs



May goals
-Hit my 2 stone award
- Continue going to the gym & try a new class
-Introduce some strength exercise to tone my arms
- Change up meals

5 tips on how to cope with peroid cramps

Ladies it's that time of the year again and I thought doing this post will help me stay calm while dealing with period cramps.


1) Track your date. I have the Mycalander app on my phone that predicts when my period is next in place. this is helpful so if I have anything important due on the same day I can do it beforehand or reschedule it.

2) Walk. Doing some movement helps to take your mind of the pain. Listening to music on your way is also a great way to keep you going for the day. My favourite track right now is Hailee Steinfield ft. DNCE 'rock bottom'

3) Plan your snacks. I recently have been having the chocolate craving and on the slimming world plan, I prefer to keep my syns low. So the best thing I do is fill my fridge with fruits - mango, grapes, pears etc. it's the best way to snack. Of course you can snack on whatever you fancy.

4) Pamper yourself. I like to do a face mask or paint my nails to keep me distracted. Also sometimes I like to lie down, just to fight the irritating pains. I also take ibuprofen pills, to take away the pain however I know that medication doesn't work for everyone.

5) Do a favourite activity. Keeping yourself  busy helps to forget about the cramps. Listening to music - reading books - playing games. Whatever you enjoy doing, keeps you distracted from the little pains that may be stopping you from carrying on with your day.

Spring Wishlist

Haven't bought myself clothes for a long time as I am on a weight loss journey and would like to reward myself once I've lost 2 stone. So to keep me motivated I have done a wishlist. Check it out below!

BOMBER Jacket: I've never owned a small jacket like this, mainly because of I am conscious about my arms and belly. spring jackets are in the zone right now and it's always good to have one because you can style it with anything you like. Retail : New Look

Black block heel sandals. What I adore about these it that they are easy to walk in. I've tried them in the store and instantly fell in love. I didn't want to purchase it without having it with something to wear. I'm more of a trainers kind of girl but would like to get into the habit of wearing shoes. I think being a size 8 in feet always puts me off aswell. Retail: New Look

Khaki smart fit trouser: These lightweight trousers are the best because they can be worn casual with flat prim soles or smart with black heels. Khaki has been my favourite colours for a while now. Trouser fits such as this always gives the body great definition especially around the bum area. Retail: Missguided

Introducing 20 Facts about me!

1) I am originally from Uganda but have been raised in the UK since I was 11 months old.

2)I am the 2nd oldest of four children. My elder brother is 23 and my younger siblings are 6 and 4.

3) I've only ever been on holiday once and that was in 2014 where I went to visit my Father in Uganda for 1 month.

4) I am currently studying Magazine Journalism in Southampton Solent University and I am in my 1st year.

5) I used to have long hair but decided to go for the big chop in December 2015.

6) My birthday is on New Years Eve and my elder brother is the day after on New Years day.

7) I started this blog to help me with my writing and also starting to enjoy sharing posts.

8) When I was younger I wanted to be a singer, then an actress and have come to realise it was just a hobby, however I still have dreams of writing music and recording in the studio. I wrote my first ever song when I was 11, after watching the music video for the first time of Destiny Childs 'Girl.'

9) I love Musical Theatre and have been to many concerts such as Beyonce. The only people who are on my list who I am yet to see is Justin Bieber, Tori Kelly & Demi Lovato

10) I've never been in a relationship, although have been asked out many times when I was younger.

11) I joined Slimming world in October 2015 because I was tired of not being able to buy my favourite clothes and wanted to feel more like a young adult, being stylish and wearing crop tops.

12) I have a weird chest and planning to get a boob reduction before I turn 25

13) I have recently become a gym bunny and looking forward to see how my body will look in the next few months. I am great at Zumba but have only been a couple of times and I have a great memory of when it comes to learning dance  routines such as 'Fifth Harmony & Little Mix'

14) I have never been baptized but have plans to get back into going to church and getting baptized this year.

15) I am from East London but currently living in Southampton where I am learning to cook my own meals.

16) I am not a party person, nor do I like the taste of alcohol.

17) I took part in the 2012 Olympics ceremony as a volunteer dancer.

18) My favourite film ever would have to be 'A walk to remember'

19) I don't own many makeup items but would like to invest in more

20) Would like to have a successful blog at the end of this year

What I got for my mum on Mothers day

Being away from my mother is the hardest thing ever. She's superwomen to me because she always put other people before herself. I couldn't think of the last time my mum treated herself so here's the gifts I surprised her with.

Gift 1) Soft toy. Got this present for my mum as a gift from me and my siblings just to explain how much we love her and she is the best mum ever.

Gift 2) Colouring book & pencils: This is just like the newest trend I have yet to purchase on for myself. I just think that this is relaxing and my mum would appreciate it, she's always running up and down for other, she needs a break. what better way than to enjoy your favourite music while coloring eh?

Gift 3) I think my mum would like this gift the best. I got a part time job to help purchase new things for my blog as well as help out my mum financially. Rent can be so expensive. So I gave her money to help her out with things?

What did you get your mum for mother's day? Let me know in the comments below...

How does Slimming World work?

As some of you may know, I am on a weight loss journey. I've been a member with Slimming World since October 2015. I love their meals and how you can be flexible with what you eat. As a celebration of hitting  my 1 stone, I thought I would let you into a little insight about how my food lifestyle works.

Step 1) You are able to fill your plate as much as you want as look as you remember to pack part of it with Speed foods.

Step 2) Speed foods are foods that boost your metabolism playing a greater contribution to your weight loss. These include fruit such as an apple and vegetable such as broccoli.

Step 3) Slimming World encounters a treat stash known as Syns. Which means you are allowed to have your sweet treats every now and then, especially when your craving a doughnut): As long as you keep to your limited amount of 15 syns a day, even if you go over it shouldn't be a problem as long as you're ready to get back on plan.

Step 4) If you're not a fan of attending weight loss groups or simply just don't have the time. You can monitor your own progress at home. Personally I prefer to be part of a group because you get to share amazing advice and always look forward to the next weigh in because you want to do particularly well.

step 5) It only costs £5 per week. I often pay £50 for 12 weeks, it just saves me from having to
 spend £5 every week, especially with being a student.

If you would like to know more about slimming world, you can have a look at their website. http://www.slimmingworld.co.uk/ 

My Slimming world account
 https://www.instagram.com/dianao_sw/ 

Couch to 5k app

I have been in London for over a month now and haven't done any exercise. I wanted to get back into a fitness regime before I head back to Southampton to start Uni. This app is amazing and works in time slots. Running makes me feel good afterwards because I know I've treated my body to a good workout. I have to admit I am not a runner but slowly would like to become one, because I know it will be useful, especially when I visit places, I know for sure I will have no access to the gym. This app is amazing and is a great Jump start to 2016, especially if part of your #Newyearsresolution was to get fit like me. I've just started week one but will definitely keep you updated with my progress.

New years Resoulution

Turned 21 this year and I am in the point in my life where I am ready to make changes and take more chances, so here's a list of accomplishments that I would like to complete during 2016 - Start going back to Church - Introduce new things onto my blog - Reach my target weight with Slimming Word - Buy new clothes and treat myself to new pampering items - Be more active on social media - Try out other restaurants - Continue on working on my weight and fitness - Learn how to read and complete work early to be given on time - Go out more with friends - Go on holiday - Do driving lessons - Start saving up for a car

New Skincare routine

Follow my blog with Bloglovin It's been a while. Sorry I have taken long I'v been busy with Uni work and planning what new posts I will be bringing to you next year. So currently I am using the Avon blackhead clearing cleanser as my daily wash for my face. I just love this product because it works wonders and costs under £3. The only downside with Avon is their price of delivery which costs up to £3.50. But so far I am happy with this product and will continue to use it, of course until/unless I find something better. As my toner I am currently using Garnier refreshing. It's actually alright, I wouldn't say it's the best toner I've comes across but it's not doing my skin any damage. So I am definitely satisfied with it for now. Neutrogena oil-free moisturiser is what I am currently using as my cream and it smells amazing. I definitely have struggled to find a cream that will suit my needs. I don't have irritating skin but finding the right products can be difficult.

My first Fashion post!!!

Thanks guys for being so patient with in the last few weeks. Not long back, I announced that I will adding a lot more stuff to my blog and this includes Fashion.So here's my first fashion post. Being a plus size girl, I wanted to explore fashion and looks and this is what I have come up with. 

Hat: H&M, Jacket: Primark, Bag & shoes, new look, Tan turtle neck sleeveless jumper & tan trousers: Primark. The jumper is so warm and definitely a must have during Autumn and Winter. Primarks quality of clothes are definitely improving. The tanned trousers were on sale for only £5 and I manged to get a black one aswell. I like how affordable their clothes are.Rocking this leather bucket hat, of course because you know leather is my favourite. The new look boots are last year, but you can still purchase amazing boots over new look, as well as shoes. 

Updated skincare routine

I am still at that phase where I am looking for a suitable cleanser, toner and exfoliate to suit my skins needs. I'm being honest I don't have terrible skin but I would like to improve my skin, so it's much more healthier and clearer. So for a month now I have been using Clinque anti- blemish solutions and the results have been okay. I heard great reviews about it, so I wanted to try something new. It has made my skin feel more relaxed but in all honesty my skin doesn't look much different than before. I purchased the sample from Debenhams which was worth £25. For the larger samples I think it's around £60 each. I've decided not to contiune with Clinque products, perhaps in the future I will go back to it. The reason being I believe I can find a cheaper skincare brand that will meet my expectations for my skin goals. I have been looking at Avon products recently and their starting price for their products range from £2 to £5. I will keep you updated on my skincare regime.