Excerpt: Nigerian makeup artist TesGlam is on a six-day Guinness World Record bid, showcasing resilience, creativity and national pride
Nigerian makeup artist Theresa Emegwara, popularly known as TesGlam, is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous makeup application by an individual, aiming for an astounding 144 hours—six full days—without pause.
The officially approved attempt, tagged #Glam4-144, began Thursday August 14 at POP Landmark in Lagos.
The relentless six-day endeavour aims to eclipse the existing record of 103 hours, 25 minutes, and 33 seconds, established by Ghana’s Akosua Mantey Roselyn in April 2024.
TesGlam, renowned for her work with top celebrities, says the challenge is about more than just a record.
“This is about pushing boundaries, inspiring a generation, and showcasing Nigeria’s creative talent to the world,” she said.
The record attempt commenced with headline-making energy. Before the clock officially began ticking, the CEO of Landmark Group Africa visited the site—an early show of logistical and moral support. Reflecting on her mission, TesGlam shared:
“This attempt is more than just about setting a record; it’s about pushing boundaries, inspiring a generation, and showcasing the immense talent within Nigeria’s creative economy.”
On Day 2, popular social commentator VeryDarkMan stopped by unexpectedly. Strolling out of a nearby hotel, he stumbled upon the record attempt and, fascinated, joined to watch as TesGlam transformed her hands into living canvases, inspiring the crowd with her focus and creativity.
Day 3 promises an extra spark with the arrival of “Get Fit at TesGlam”, a high-energy, free-to-attend fitness celebration at the POP Landmark venue on Saturday.
A star-studded lineup of fitness influencers has been confirmed to lead sessions and join participants, blending health and movement with TesGlam’s historic push. Those expected to feature include Slim, who will lead a salsa workout; Ceejay, who is bringing dance; Sandra with Zumba; TL Funky Fitness with another round of dance; Kemen Fitness guiding Tabata routines; Maje Ayida with high-intensity interval training; Rhema on stretch and mobility; and the renowned Kaffy, who will electrify the atmosphere with dance.
The six-day marathon is not just about endurance; it has also become a platform for partnerships and community pride. House of Tara, one of Nigeria’s leading beauty brands, is the sole provider of makeup supplies for the attempt. Its Managing Director, Rosemary Layode, described the record bid as “a powerful show of passion and resilience.”
TesGlam herself acknowledged the brand’s critical role, saying their support gave her the confidence to push forward with the gruelling challenge.
The event is already being described as a cultural milestone, reinforcing Nigeria’s expanding Guinness World Record legacy, which in recent years has included Hilda Baci’s celebrated cooking marathon and Tunde Onakoya’s chess endurance feat.
For TesGlam, this isn’t just about holding a Guinness title. It is, in her words, about “pushing boundaries, inspiring a generation, and showcasing Nigeria’s creative talent to the world.”
Her six-day marathon serves as both a personal challenge and a national moment, embodying the resilience, spirit, and ambition that Nigerians are increasingly being recognised for on the world stage.
If the pace holds, TesGlam will push her total hours closer to her target of 144 hours—the full six-day mark she has set her sights on.
“With passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, dreams, no matter how ambitious, can indeed become a reality.”
Boluwatife Enome
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