AGAINST ALL ODDS



AGAINST ALL ODDS!


Early this year, I sent out a number of letters to various principals in girls high schools. I had requested I be allowed to address the students free of charge in a motivational talk. To my utter shock, not even one of the head teachers responded affirmatively or otherwise.
Later on in the year, there was an opening for writers in one of the dailies. We were called upon to submit an article on a given topic. After submitting, the editor said that despite my article being among the best, they could not take me in because no one knows me!
One of the major challenges I face daily is that there is a notion that you have ‘to have a name’ before anyone can entrust you with anything. You have to be in the media industry, an artist or one of well-heeled executives in the society. People are skeptical of what you are capable of doing. No one really wants to give an ear, or a chance to what you have to offer. I can confidently affirm that those head teachers never bothered to respond because to them ‘what did this girl have to offer and for starters who is she?’
Most girls in my community lack role models, they have no one to ignite their passions and encourage them. As a result, they end up performing poorly in schools and this is the beginning of their downfall.
I have not let all these naysayers dissuade me from doing something for my community. I have come to the realization that if I await that podium to address, it may never happen. I now approach students on a one on one basis in any social gatherings. May it be in weddings, church events, my family members and even among my circle of friends. I also write articles with encouraging messages. Some are published and others are yet to see the light of day. I do charity walks and engage with women groups.
Through PulseWire, I do not have to be renowned in the society to inspire someone. They are no barriers through this online community. All I have to do is to speak and someone will listen. Through inviting other members of PulseWire to my community, I am able to interact with them, share ideas and get enlightened.
I am overwhelmed by the amount of knowledge and lessons I have garnered through online community. It has helped me realize despite our diversity women face similar if not the same challenges. Of essence is how we choose to overcome those impediments.
On a daily basis there will be mountains that we as women we have to climb, whether we succeed or not is up to us. The fact that I wasn’t given an opening to speak to various girls’ schools in my community hasn’t dampened my spirit. If anything, I have created other avenues to ensure I achieve that goal. Against all odds, we shall overcome!

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