By Yemisi Suleiman
London based beauty therapist  and CEO of Okin Arewa Juliet Esiri, turns 50 today 3rd July. The skin care expert, makeup and gele specialist who is incredibly gifted at all three, in this interview reminisces on her growing up years her brand’s evolution and life at attaining the golden age of 50.  

How does it feel to be 50?
 I am happy I am 50. It is a thing of joy. I feel younger and ready to explore the world. So funny. I can’t even believe it.
Growing up yearsI am from Delta State, from the Aristocratic family of the Esiri of Oria Abraka. Am a proud Urhobo girl. However I grew up in Ibadan, Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode. I actually attended a lot of schools, this was because my late dad was a policeman, so we changed our schools a lot. I attended AGGS Abeokuta and Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School Odo Ona, Ibadan. Later I travelled to the UK. I miss life in Ibadan. I used to believe Ibadan is the coolest place growing up. Hahaha.

Perception of life at 50
I think now, I don’t feel I owe anyone any explanation about how I want to live my life. I use to care about how people feel about me. But at 50! Am still myself in other aspects of life. Will always be me Juliet Esiri. I am so happy and grateful to the Almighty Lord. Looking back, I just want to thank God for the privilege to be here in the land of the living.

Life’s Lessons
With the wisdom I gained by turning 50, I decided I wanted less drama in my life. To focus more on productive things and flush out toxic people.

Beauty secrets
Nothing serious, I am just lucky, I think it’s my gene that helps look cool and young for my age. I bless and thank my Creator and my parents for this.

Marriage life
That is one aspect of my life that I won’t say I regret or rather I must thank God always. I am separated and going through my divorce presently.It is a  painful experience, most especially when you believe you tried all you could to be the best wife.But all That is behind me now and both parties moved on. These days, the focus is on the evolution of my brand, which is priority.