I dress to reflect my Nigerian roots –Tessy Biobaku,  Life coach,

By Christy Anyanwu

Theresa Biobaku became popular when she shared her inspiring weight loss journey. She went from a size 22 to a size 16, and her story is truly motivational. Theresa’s weight gain started after she got married and had children, and at her heaviest, she weighed 117kg. However, she decided to take control of her health and started exercising regularly, eating more fruits and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water.

Theresa’s determination and hard work paid off, and she was able to achieve her weight loss goals. Her story is a testament to the fact that with dedication and perseverance, anyone can achieve their health and wellness goals.

In this interview with Sunday Sun, she takes you through the journey of what keeps her busy these days, lessons she has learnt about. Life and lots more.

What has been keeping you busy lately and what’s your new world?

Honestly, what’s been keeping me busy these days is Tessence. It started from a deep need to lend my voice to everyday issues, and now it has grown into this amazing platform where real conversations happen.

Through Tessence, we’re not only sharing stories but also creating spaces for people to connect through public speaking, keynote addresses, and panel discussions. My new world is really about amplifying voices, tackling real-life issues that affect families, communities, and individuals. It’s exciting, it’s challenging, but it’s also very fulfilling because I know it’s making a difference.

You were twice the chairperson of the Bonny Women Association. Could you share with us your experiences and also achievements during your tenure?

Those years as chairperson of the Bonny Women Association were truly special to me. It gave me the chance to serve women in ways that really mattered, organizing outreaches, training programs, and creating support systems.

One of the things I’m most proud of was leading projects that helped widows and single mothers start small businesses. Watching women gain confidence, pick up skills, and step into leadership within their homes and communities. That, for me, was the real reward. It was a season of growth, not just for the women, but for me as well.

What is style to you? What influences your dress sense?

For me, style is simply the way you carry yourself. It’s confidence, it’s authenticity, and it’s about being comfortable in your own skin.

I love to dress in a way that’s elegant yet easy, something that reflects my Nigerian roots but also embraces a modern touch. And of course, being a mum of three girls, I’m conscious of showing them that style is less about chasing trends and more about being yourself – with pride.

What lessons have you learnt about life?

Life has taught me so many lessons. One big one is resilience, you can get knocked down, but with faith and determination, you can always rise again.

I’ve also come to value community so much. Nobody succeeds alone. The people around you, the ones who lift you when you’re low, they really shape your journey. And at the heart of it all, I’ve learned that life feels more meaningful when you give back. Service keeps you grounded and fulfilled.

Tell us a bit about life growing up. Who were the people you looked up to or admired as a young girl?

Growing up, my home was filled with strong values, discipline, faith, and the belief that education could change lives. Those things shaped me.

As a little girl, I looked up to women who carried themselves with strength and grace, women who weren’t afraid to stand up and lead. My mum was my biggest inspiration, her quiet strength and her wisdom have stayed with me all my life. And beyond her, I’ve always admired women who break barriers and create paths for others to walk on.

Through Tessence, we’re not only sharing stories but also creating spaces for people to connect through public speaking, keynote addresses, and panel discussions. My new world is really about amplifying voices, tackling real-life issues that affect families, communities, and individuals. It’s exciting, it’s challenging, but it’s also very fulfilling because I know it’s making a difference.