Get the lowdown on the growth mindset that keeps her radiant from the inside and out.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Folasade Adeoso is a testament to the fusion of strength, artistry, and cultural richness. Hailing originally from Nigeria and finding her creative stride in the bustling streets of Toronto, Folasade embodies resilience and creativity.
Beyond her role as a model in the much-anticipated Firm Belief Smoothing Peptide Cream launch campaign, Folasade’s journey weaves through graphic design, content creation, and the entrepreneurial world, with a footprint in the heart of New York’s Pan-African culinary scene through the co-founding of Teranga. This multi-talented individual seamlessly intertwines the realms of skin and soul. As we delve into her story, we explore how Folasade lives the affirmation, “You are stronger than you know,” and discover the soulful connection she cultivates through her rituals with Keys Soulcare.
HOW DOES THE AFFIRMATION “YOU ARE STRONGER THAN YOU KNOW” TRANSCEND ACROSS YOUR MULTIFACETED CAREER?
I’ve been a freelance creative entrepreneur for over ten years. Risk is always involved with the ups and downs. My strength comes from knowing that it’s gonna happen. I’ve always disliked people telling me what to do, how to move, and where to go. It’s not about proving them wrong, but just doing what I want to do for myself and showing them it is possible. So, the more I become rooted in my decisions, the more confidence I have. Even when people tell me to “niche down” or pick one thing, I can’t because it is my God-given right to be whatever I want. I’m the ruler of my destiny, not anyone else.
HOW DOES THIS SHOW UP IN YOUR SOULCARE PRACTICE?
Working out is kinda like my meditation. It’s like saying yes to being healthy and prepping for whatever’s coming next. When I’m sweating it out, I’m not just doing it for nothing; it’s for the next big thing, and I’ve gotta be ready for it. Even if it means pushing through two miles — no excuses. My body is my vehicle. As long as it’s rolling, I’m rolling, even if there are some bumps in the road. The word discipline is complex for me because some days, I’m just like, “Nah, not happening, too tired.” But within that discipline, I’ve learned to cut myself slack.
WHAT RITUALS OR PRACTICES ALLOW YOU TO MAINTAIN A STRONG SENSE OF SELF AMIDST YOUR BUSY LIFESTYLE?
I like to take baths and take my time with my skincare routine, even if it’s adding five more minutes. Sometimes, I just put shea butter on and walk out the bathroom door, but I definitely love extra time in my skincare routine. Connecting with friends has been good for me lately. I can be pretty reclusive, so hanging out with my friends is a really fun reminder that I have a community around me. I also volunteer with rescue horses. I look forward to going on weekends to feed them and muck. It’s challenging but rewarding work.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESTAURANT, TERANGA, AND VISION AS A FUSION FOODIE?
Teranga is like a culinary journey, a travel experience through food, if you will. We’re all about sharing culture through our diverse menu, which features a fusion of West African restaurant recipes. Within these recipes, you can craft your own bowl and enjoy a culinary adventure to Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and beyond. It’s a chance to explore flavors that might trigger memories, like, “Oh, I’ve had this in the Dominican Republic,” or, “Back in the south, we call this…” So, beyond just West Africa, our menu connects to various corners of the diaspora through the universal language of food.
COMING FROM NEW YORK VIA NIGERIA AND TORONTO, HOW HAVE THESE PLACES SHAPED YOU, AND HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A CONNECTION TO EACH PART OF YOUR IDENTITY?
I am a chameleon because of my diverse upbringing. It allows me to connect with people from various cultures. Growing up in big urban cities on the East Coast exposed me to a mix of cultures — I had Asian friends, Muslim friends, and friends from places like Yugoslavia. It’s funny because when someone mentions a place, I often say, “Oh, I had a friend from there!” This ability to connect with people extends to my experience in music. Toronto has a vibrant music scene, which informs and inspires my DJing.
WHAT’S YOUR BEAUTY PHILOSOPHY AS A MODEL AND LIGHTWORKER?
My beauty philosophy revolves around the idea that beauty is a gift that can be given and taken away. I’m genuinely grateful for being seen as a beautiful person, and I don’t take it for granted. Because I’ve overcome bullying, I understand the impact of negativity, so a significant part of my beauty comes from how I treat others and the kindness I extend. While not every interaction is perfect, I consciously try to embody respect because it aligns with my self-worth.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR LEGACY WILL BE?
I want people to perceive my intentions positively. I know how others see me or what they believe my legacy will be isn’t entirely within my control. I genuinely hope people recognize that I was just living my life, navigating each day the best I could. I want to be remembered for my laughter, dancing, and warmth.
How does “You’re stronger than you know” resonate with you? Tell us in the comments!
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