Discussions on how best to strike a balance between work and family life took the centre stage at the Dr Abayomi Finnih Park, Oregun, Lagos, venue of the 2019 Forum of the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs) Lagos Chapter, as resource persons spoke one after the other on the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
It was submitted that every successful professional woman needs to achieve balance in different areas, such as balance lifestyle, balance diet, balanced family life, a good work/play ratio, exercise, social life and others.
Top among dignitaries that graced the occasion are: Distinguished Professor Cecilia Igwilo, former dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, UNILAG; Professor Boladale Silva, father of the day; Chief Yetunde Morohundiya, former chairman, Lagos ALPs; Former chairpersons of Lagos ALPs; Chairman, Lagos State PSN, Pharm. (Mrs) Bolanle Adeniran; Chairman, Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) Lagos Chapter, Pharm. (Mrs) Titilayo Onedo, and others.
In her welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion, Pharm. (Mrs) Adenike Adenuga, said the word ‘woman’ epitomises wisdom, strength, resilient, multi-tasking, and a home builder.
Thus, to attain balance on all spheres of life, she urged the lady pharmacists to socialise more, network, and associate with confidants whom they can share their heartfelt issues with. ”Studies have found that hearts laden with all sorts of bitterness, hatred and malice, don’t go far in accomplishing their goals in life, so let go of anyone who has offended you, release them from your heart so that you also can be free”, she urged.
Adenuga also stressed on the need for the women to properly train their girls, in order for them to become better home makers at home in the nearest future. She advised the lady pharmacists to be humble, become more spiritual and endeavour to always adapt to their husbands and their immediate environment.
The keynote speaker, Miss Ifeoma Nwabachili, speaking on the theme “professional women and home management”, urged the pharmacists to say no to work abuse, as wellness and work life integration is the trend.
The home management expert advised the ladies to make their kitchens comfortable and invest in quality kitchen items, as they make life easy for women at home.
She asked them some crucial questions to drive positive changes in their homes. “How is your wardrobe? How clean is your fridge, freezer? How decorated is your living-room?” She asked.
For a better home management skill to be cultivated, Nwabachili, encouraged the participants to create a monthly plan for maintenance of items in the home, cleaning, fumigation, furniture, family talk time, meal time-table, family outing, and others.
There was also a section on skin care and make up, led by Pharm. Mariam Giwa, who taught the ladies how to specially care for their skin for the best youthful look and aging gracefully.
The Chairman, Lagos ALPs, Pharm. (Mrs) Modupe Alli, appreciated all members for their contributions towards the activities of the association from January to December, saying all work and no play, will not give them the best.
Therefore she urged them to seize the opportunity of the forum to unwind, relax, network and enjoy themselves for a better overall performance.
