Charly Boy talks being a man on Downtown magazine

What really does it mean when you hear the phrase, ‘Be a man’?

It can be interpreted differently for a lot of people. For some, and this is the most common interpretation, it would mean, be macho, don’t show emotion, regardless of whatever it is that you are going through. You most certainly cannot cry, because MEN don’t cry.

I would like to think that men being human beings require just as much emotional or physical tenderness as a woman when dealing with them. They have feelings too. They can break down just like a woman would and they also need a shoulder to cry on just as women do. It’s not commonplace, but a community (safe place) where men can open up to each other about how they are doing is something to be considered. And so, I was quite pleased when during the interview I asked our cover personality for this week, Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa, better known as Charly Boy, or Area Fada about this subject, and he also thinks such places should exist. “I think it is a bloody good idea. Unfortunately, seeking professional help isn’t as commonplace over here as it is in first-world countries as poverty is a big constraint. Person wen never chop no fit afford therapy.”

In light of International Men’s Day, we take a look at what it really means to be a man. In this riveting interview with Charly Boy, he talks about everything, from his sexuality to not being able to feed himself at a point in his life, losing his self-esteem, gaining it back, and the journey behind becoming the man that we know him to be. It really is a captivating read.

The rest of the magazine this week pays homage to men, from health to beauty –make-up for men, and fashion for the new man. Don’t miss Downtown Confidential (our sex page). This week we talk about a rather interesting sexual preference, Pegging. I’d like to read what the men think about it. Is this something you would try? Leave a comment on the website or our Instagram page.

To all the men out there, this one is for you.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah Nwachukwu

@onahluciaa 

CREDITS

Cover Story Images by Gift Eghator @graphedbyblue

Cover drapped dress fabric – Pleated lamé from Kwamuhle Fabrics @temiladyofkwamuhle

Pink tulle by Stella Emami @firstladyng

Makeup by Seidu Bika Munirat @munictouch for Flawlessivy Cosmetics @flawlessivycosmetics

Nails by Bold Nailz @boldkraftnailz

Styling, Hair, Set Design & Art Direction by Zubby Eneoma @zubbydefinition

Creative Direction & Concept by The Editor, Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa & Zubby Eneoma @zubbydefinition