self development

In Career Gems November 6, 2023 By Maggy Rosiji

Six Formerly Homeless Black Sisters from NYC Are All Now Becoming Nurses

In the heart of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, the incredible journey of the Lawrence siblings is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Six sisters, once homeless, are now on a remarkable journey to fulfill their dreams of becoming nurses, and their story is nothing short of inspiring.

The Lawrence Siblings’ Journey: Overcoming Homelessness and Hardship

Back in 2013, the Lawrence family faced a devastating turn of events when they lost their home in Queens, New York City. David and Yonette Lawrence, the parents of the six sisters, found themselves confronted with the harsh reality of homelessness. Their family’s life took a dramatic turn as they moved from one relative or friend’s house to another, seeking shelter and stability, as they later shared with People magazine.

“It was challenging,” recalls 24-year-old Lauren. “There were a lot of very bumpy, depressing times.” The struggle to find a place to call home was a constant battle, and it took a toll on the family.

Educational Pursuit : From GEDs to Bachelor’s Degrees

Two years into this gruelling ordeal, their father, David, made a courageous decision. He refused to let their circumstances hinder the education and dreams of his daughters. The Lawrence sisters, who had been grappling with disrupted schooling due to their ever-changing living situation, enrolled in a homeschool program. Their goal? To earn their GEDs and ensure their education remained on track.

“He didn’t want what we were going through to hold us back,” explained 25-year-old Dominique. This decision marked a turning point in their lives, as they embarked on a path filled with challenges but brimming with determination and hope.

Unyielding Faith : The Driving Force Behind Their Success

The Lawrence sisters defied the odds and shattered the barriers in their way. In 2019, all six of them successfully earned their GEDs. Their journey continued as they enrolled in Nassau Community College and, later, proudly graduated from SUNY Old Westbury with bachelor’s degrees in public health in May.

“It’s been quite an adventure,” shared 22-year-old Danielle. “But what really pulled us through is our faith in God and in each other.” Their unwavering support for one another, coupled with their unshakable faith, carried them through even the darkest of times.

Future Prospects: Master’s Program in Public Health and Beyond

Today, these extraordinary siblings, aged 19 to 25, declare that this is just the beginning of their remarkable journey. In August, they embarked on a master’s program in public health at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Their eyes are set on the future, as they plan to attend nursing school to further their education and expertise.

Father’s Pride : A Proud Parent’s Perspective

Their father, David Lawrence, couldn’t be prouder of his daughters, who have defied adversity to chase their dreams and emerge stronger than ever. “I’m so happy that they’ve done this together,” he said, beaming with pride. “I always tell them, ‘Life’s not fair. And when it throws you a curveball, you’ve got to adjust to it and keep going.'”

An Inspiring Story of Triumph

The Lawrence sisters’ journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, a strong support system, and unwavering faith, one can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. As they continue to pursue their dreams in the field of healthcare, their story serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that resilience can lead to incredible achievements.

In Career Gems October 31, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

Rinret Gofwan: The Healing Visionary Changing Lives Through Trauma Therapy and Empathy

Rinret Gofwan is a testament to the incredible power of healing and transformation. As a licensed trauma therapist, certified emotional intelligence coach, and specialist in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), she has dedicated her life to helping others overcome their traumas and find wholeness.

A Personal Journey of Healing and Wholeness

Rinret’s journey began as a trauma survivor during her formative years. This personal experience inspired her to seek healing and wholeness not only for herself but for others who have endured mental and emotional traumatic experiences. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest of times.

Expertise in Transformation

Rinret Gofwan’s professional expertise is extensive. She specializes in advanced training for the treatment of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addressing compassion fatigue with professional resiliency, and helping individuals cope with the intersection of trauma and addiction. Her knowledge and skills in these areas have been instrumental in helping countless individuals regain control of their lives.

Rinret Gofwan’s Diverse Educational Background

Rinret’s educational journey has equipped her with a broad perspective on the complexities of human behavior. She holds degrees in diverse fields, including Communication from the University of Abuja, Psychology from the University of Jos, and Sociology from the University of Maiduguri. Her pursuit of knowledge culminated in a master’s degree in International Relations and Strategic Studies from NDA.

The Miriam Gofwan Women and Children Foundation

As the foundation director at the Miriam Gofwan Women and Children Foundation, Rinret Gofwan is actively involved in projects aimed at making a real difference. One such project, “Pad a Girl Africa,” involves designing sanitary pad boxes called the “na you sabi sanitary pad box” and installing them in public schools in Nigeria. Additionally, the foundation educates women and young girls on making and using reusable pads, providing a sustainable solution to menstrual hygiene challenges.

Rinret is also actively engaged in “Rescue Missions,” a project that provides immediate support within the first 48 hours to teenagers who have been traumatized by rape. Her work extends beyond Nigeria, reaching women and young girls in Kenya and Uganda.

The Healing Room Support Group

Rinret Gofwan’s dedication to healing extends to “The Healing Room Support Group.” This initiative, which began in Abuja and now operates in three other states (Jos, Kaduna, and Lagos), offers a safe space for women and men to heal from significant emotional and traumatic experiences.

Holistic Healing at PEKAAT Wellbeing Hub

Rinret serves as the CEO of the PEKAAT Wellbeing Hub, where she collaborates with a group of professionals to offer holistic healing therapies. The hub provides private therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and a variety of healing sessions, including dance therapy, art therapy, somatic therapy, and more.

In conclusion, Rinret Gofwan’s journey is a profound testament to the transformative power of healing and resilience. Her work, both as a professional and through the Miriam Gofwan Women and Children Foundation, is changing lives and offering hope to those who have experienced trauma and adversity. Rinret’s commitment to empowering and healing others serves as an inspiring example of the impact one individual can have on the world.

In self development October 26, 2023 By Maggy Rosiji

Canada Vendors’ Empowered Summit: Bridging Tech, Health, and Community

The city of Brampton recently witnessed a dynamic convergence of innovation and inspiration as Canada Vendors hosted its highly anticipated Empowered Summit. This event brought together experts from diverse fields, offering invaluable insights into technology, cybersecurity, and health.

The summit featured distinguished panellists who shared their expertise with an engaged audience:

Pamela Anoliefo, a Scrum Master with a deep understanding of agile methodologies, addressed the crowd on the evolving landscape of technology and its implications for entrepreneurs. Her presentation sparked discussions on how businesses can harness the power of agile practices to drive innovation and adapt to a rapidly changing world.

Fola Adegoke, a distinguished Cybersecurity Expert, shared insights into the critical role of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape. Attendees gained an understanding of the cybersecurity challenges businesses face and how to safeguard their operations in an increasingly interconnected world.

In the realm of health, Bridget Nwagbara delivered an engaging presentation on cardiovascular health, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Her holistic approach resonated with the audience, underscoring the vital connection between well-being and professional success.

The presence of Mayor Patrick Brown at the event highlighted the city’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and fostering innovation within the community. The Mayor’s participation underscored the significance of collaboration between local government and business leaders in driving economic growth and progress.

Additionally, Uche Okugo, President of the Network of Nigerians in Canada added a sense of community to the event, emphasizing the importance of cultural and professional networks in facilitating growth, unity, and support.

Canada Vendors, the driving force behind this successful event, is owned by Maryam Muritala. Speaking about the summit, Maryam Muritala shared, “The Empowered Summit aimed to create a platform where innovation, knowledge, and collaboration intersected. It is heartening to see the business community of Brampton come together with a shared vision for growth, and I’m incredibly proud of the diverse insights and ideas that were shared at this event.”

The Canada Vendors’ Empowered Summit provided a platform for gaining knowledge and insights, along with opportunities for attendees to network, collaborate, and explore the myriad possibilities in the entrepreneurial landscape.

As the summit concluded, the buzz of excitement and inspiration lingered, leaving attendees motivated to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys armed with newfound knowledge and connections.

For more information on Canada Vendors and their future events, please visit their website

In Career Gems October 14, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

7 Companies Providing Work-from-Anywhere Jobs with Salaries Over $100,000

Work-from-anywhere jobs employees have the freedom to work from any location, independent of time zones or geographic boundaries. While some companies are urging their employees to return to the office, those in marketing, tech, and video game design are doubling down on remote work, prioritizing flexibility and location independence.

If you’ve ever dreamed of working from a beachside cafe in Toronto or a cozy cabin in Bali, your dream could be closer to reality than you think. A recent study by FlexJobs has revealed that careers in marketing, tech, and video game design continue to offer some of the most flexible remote job opportunities. This trend, which began with the onset of the pandemic, shows no signs of slowing down.

FlexJobs identified the top companies currently hiring for work-from-anywhere positions by analyzing its database of job postings from January to June 2023. These companies offer both full-time and part-time remote positions with no location restrictions, meaning you can work from anywhere you desire. Here are seven companies with a high volume of work-from-anywhere job openings:

You can exploremore remote jobs here

The growing popularity of work-from-anywhere jobs is driven by the increasing demand for flexibility among professionals. According to Flexa Careers, the percentage of job seekers interested in “work from anywhere” roles has risen from 80% in April to 88% in June—a significant increase since tracking began last year.

Many work-from-anywhere positions come with competitive salaries, often exceeding $100,000. For instance, a job posting for a senior site reliability engineer at the Wikimedia Foundation offers a salary range of $105,309 to $163,646. Similarly, a payment operations manager position at Cash App guarantees a minimum salary of $156,400 to $184,100, depending on the employee’s location.

Black woman working remote — Image: SamsonKatt

Several companies on FlexJobs‘s list have reported that offering location-flexible jobs has allowed them to attract top talent from around the world. Approximately half of the Wikimedia Foundation’s staff is based outside of the U.S., and Invisible Technologies boasts employees on six continents.

As the demand for flexible work arrangements continues to rise, the prospect of working from anywhere in the world is becoming increasingly attainable. Whether you’re in marketing, tech, video game design, or other fields, the opportunities to work remotely and on your terms are more accessible than ever. So, pack your laptop, choose your dream destination, and embark on your work-from-anywhere adventure.

In Career Gems October 10, 2023 By Women of Rubies

#WorldMentalHealthDay | 5 Ways To Protect Your Mental Health In Tough Times

If you’re not protecting your mental health right now, you’re either struggling or a superhero. Even before the coronavirus pandemic there was plenty to stress about.

Concerns about everything from dirty dishes to climate change can affect your mental health. Just remember: You control your mental state. You may not be able to solve all of life’s challenges, but you can keep them from getting to you.

Safeguarding your mental health isn’t just about keeping your stress levels in check, either. For yourself and others, it’s critical for a healthy, productive life.

How to Protect Your Mental Health

Protecting your mental health starts with a simple commitment: to separate your internal state from what’s going on around you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Talk it Out

The first and most important step to protecting your mental health? Speaking up.

Opening up to friends and family about your mental health challenges isn’t a sign of weakness. In fact, it proves you’re strong enough to show others the not-so-perfect parts of your life.

Need an easy way to start the conversation? You could say:

“I want to share something with you.”
“I’ve been thinking about…”
“Can we talk about…?”
“I’ve been struggling with…”

Any one of these will allow an easy in to a conversation you need to have.

2. Shrink Your Screen Time

Tempting as it is right now, spending hours each day on social media isn’t good for your mental health. At best, you’ll distract yourself from what matters; at worst, you’ll internalize all the bad news and anger online.

Young people are particularly prone to this, but they’re not alone. A friend of mine got her daughter a Gabb phone, which is a safe phone for kids that helps limit screen time. After I got my niece one, it made me think about how much I need to limit my own screen time.

I haven’t swapped out my smartphone, but I have put boundaries on how I use it. I limit myself to two hours of surfing per day, with a hard stop at 9 p.m. I don’t touch it again until I leave for work in the morning. Consider doing something similar to get yourself away from your screen.

3. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Another lesson I’ve learned about maintaining my mental health? Avoiding drugs and alcohol is key.

A few years ago, I got in the habit of pouring myself a glass of wine after a long day. It sure helped me unwind from the stresses of work, so I figured it was worth the health risks.

What nobody told me, though, is that alcohol makes anxiety worse. A few hours after having a drink, I noticed I’d get stressed out. Cutting back helped me get back to my normal self.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Diet

Have you ever heard medical experts call your gut “your second brain”? The reason is that the gastrointestinal tract has more nerve endings than anywhere in the body apart from the brain.

Every bite you take affects those gut nerves. Nutritious foods — the fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean meats your mother likes to talk about — nurture it, while unhealthy ones upset it.

Cook meals at home whenever you can, and keep an eye on your snack intake. Even if you’re eating salmon and broccoli for dinner, binging on processed snacks at night could be messing with your mental health.

5. Stay Active

Your physical and mental health are more connected than you might realize. Regular exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety as effectively, in some cases, as medication^[2].

What type of exercise is best for mental health? Opt for cardio, but realize that anything is better than nothing. Whether you like to swim, run, row, or lift, get some fresh blood to your brain.

Don’t let your current fitness level be a barrier. When I was looking at new ways to exercise, I was looking at what a lot of busy entrepreneurs do to work out. I randomly came upon a site where Mark Cuban got a new e-bike and figured I would try one out. Within a few weeks, I was cruising for miles while listening to my favorite podcasts. It’s become one of my favorite times to learn while staying active.

6. Give Yourself a Break

Although perseverance is admirable, you have to cut yourself some slack when times get tough. Taking breaks is critical if you want to keep going for the long term.

Because I struggle to take breaks, I use the Pomodoro Method: I buckle down for 25 minutes, after which I give myself a five-minute break. There’s no right or wrong approach, but you do need a system.

How should you spend your breaks? Do something that rejuvenates you, such as:

Reading a book
Calling up a friend
Taking a bath or shower
Taking a nap
Going for a walk

7. Get Outdoors

Speaking of going for a walk, there’s no better way to get some headspace than to get outside. There’s just something about the smell of fresh air and the feeling of sun on your skin that melts stress.

8. Lose Yourself in a Hobby

Sometimes, an hour in the sun isn’t enough to take your mind off what’s bothering you. In that case, try diving into your favorite hobby.

Practicing a hobby helps you get into a “flow” state, which is when you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you lose track of the world around you. That mental break can be just what you need to get some perspective.

As with exercise, what the hobby is isn’t as important as your ability to stick with it. If you don’t have much time or money to spend, good options include:

Drawing
Hiking
Reading
Dancing
Cooking
Gardening
Knitting
Writing

9. Ask for Help

In rare cases, you might not be able to protect your mental health alone. If you’re feeling outgunned, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Although they mean well, your family and friends simply can’t provide the level of support a mental health expert can.

Remember, there are resources out there to help you get through tough times. Talk to your doctor, or call an helpline.

Source: Lifehack

In Career Gems October 2, 2023 By Maggy Rosiji

5 Red Flags To Look For On Tricky Job Listings

Searching for a job can be a challenging task, and as job seekers, it’s crucial to approach job listings with a discerning eye. While most job postings are legitimate and offer great opportunities, some may not be what they seem. To avoid wasting your time and energy on misleading or potentially harmful job listings, here are five red flags to be aware of:

1. Vague Job Descriptions

One of the first signs of a potentially tricky job listing is a vague job description. Legitimate employers typically provide clear and detailed information about the job, including responsibilities, qualifications, and the company itself. If you come across a job posting with generic language, such as “exciting opportunity,” “earn big money,” or “no experience necessary,” proceed with caution. Lack of specificity could indicate that the employer is hiding important details about the position.

2. Unrealistic Salary Promises

If a job listing promises an unusually high salary or income that seems too good to be true, it probably is. While well-paying jobs exist, they often require specific qualifications and experience. Be skeptical of job postings that guarantee high earnings with minimal effort or experience. Scammers may use attractive salaries to lure unsuspecting job seekers into fraudulent schemes.

3. Upfront Fees or Investments

Legitimate employers do not ask job applicants for money upfront. Be cautious of job listings that require you to pay for training, materials, or other expenses before you can start working. Such requests are often associated with fraudulent job offers or pyramid schemes. Remember, a legitimate job should pay you, not the other way around.

4. Poor Grammar and Spelling

Pay attention to the quality of the job listing itself. Legitimate companies take care to present themselves professionally, which includes proofreading their job postings. If you notice numerous grammar and spelling errors in a job listing, it may be a sign that the posting is not from a reputable source. Scammers may not invest the time or effort to create a well-written job description.

5. Lack of Company Information

A credible employer will provide information about the company, such as its name, location, and contact details. If a job listing lacks this essential information or only offers a generic email address, it could be a warning sign. Be wary of job postings that do not allow you to research the company or verify its legitimacy.

In conclusion, while the majority of job listings are legitimate, it’s essential to be cautious when searching for employment opportunities online. Always trust your instincts and thoroughly research any company or job posting that raises concerns. By staying vigilant and recognizing these red flags, you can protect yourself from potentially tricky job listings and focus your efforts on genuine opportunities that align with your career goals.

In Inspiration October 3, 2023 By Esther Ijewere

The Power of Speaking Up: Finding Your Tribe And Thriving

Have you ever wondered why some people choose to carry their burdens silently while others speak out loudly against injustice? In a world where silence can sometimes trump justice, the act of speaking up can often be misunderstood, misinterpreted, or even twisted to make the brave soul raising their voice seem like the problem. Today, on Nigeria’s Independence Day, we reflect on the importance of finding your tribe, the power of speaking up, and the strength to overcome adversity.

The Imole’s Issue

Not too long ago, someone asked me why I vocally supported Imole’s issue, why I carried it on my head as they say. I explained to them that I understand how silence can sometimes overshadow the pursuit of justice. I’ve witnessed firsthand how speaking up can be manipulated to portray you as the troublemaker, the one in the wrong.

Late Nigerian Singer, Mohbad ( Oladimeji Aloba) also known as “Imole”

Imole’s case serves as a stark reminder of the diverse effects of sharing your problems with the wrong people. People may hear you, but they won’t actively listen because they’ve already formed their opinions. Imole’s story was no different; they painted him as depressed ,mentally unstable, and ungrateful all because he was at their mercy.

The Consequences of Misjudgment

Imole’s situation shed light on why so many people get blacklisted by their friends and family without even having the grace to be heard. It’s the same reason why individuals suffer in abusive elationships because the very people who should support and protect them end up judging and condemning them.

Furthermore, Imole’s case highlighted why people are often advised to tolerate disrespect in exchange for opportunities or money. The fear of being labeled, misunderstood, or ostracized can sometimes make individuals compromise their self-respect and integrity.

A Prayer for Independence Day

As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day, my heartfelt prayer goes out to anyone who has experienced any of the above. Perhaps your image has been tarnished to the point where people see you as an outcast who doesn’t deserve a seat at the table. Maybe you’ve been treated as someone who should be avoided at all costs simply because you refuse to tolerate disrespect.

My prayer is that you find your tribe, those who will listen actively, correct with love, and stand by you through thick and thin. I hope you encounter people who will love the parts of you that others have been asked to avoid, and who will support you on your journey, helping you access the necessary support when needed.

For every moment you’ve been mocked, may God celebrate you. For every instance of bullying, harassment, or disgrace, may you find the courage to defend yourself and rise above.

May our lights shine so brightly that no one has the power, network, or money to extinguish them. In a world where speaking up can sometimes be misunderstood, it’s essential to find your tribe, those who will lift you up and celebrate your strength. Remember, your voice matters, and your journey deserves recognition and support.

About the Author

Esther Ijewere, a prominent author, activist, and media strategist, is the passionate voice behind this article. She’s not only a prolific writer but also the visionary founder of Women of Rubies, a platform dedicated to empowering women and promoting social change.

With her expertise and commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, Esther’s work beautifully complements the themes explored in this article. Connect with her via her social media account here

In Career Gems September 26, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Jessica Nabongo: The First Black Woman To Have Travelled To Every Country Of The World

Jessica Nabongo is the first black woman to have travelled to every country in the world. She is a Ugandan-American travel blogger and influencer, born in Detroit, Michigan to Ugandan parents.

In the last decade she visited over 200 countries, lived in Benin, Italy, Japan, UK, (Washington DC, New York City, Detroit) – USA, changed jobs 6 times, launched two successful businesses and created the kind of life she wanted to live.

Growing Up

Nabongo, who grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and is the daughter of Ugandan immigrants, estimates that she had already been to 105 countries when she publicly set her goal in April 2018.

A dual Ugandan-American citizen, she spent time in East Africa as a child and teen, visiting her parents’ families.

She moved abroad to teach English in Japan in her early twenties and then got a master’s degree in international development from the London School of Economics at the age of 26.

She moved to Benin, in West Africa, to work for an NGO, then landed a job in Italy as a resource-mobilization consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

The Beginning Of The Journey

In 2019, she visited 66 countries, 46 for the first time. She took 170 flights, spent 601 hours on a plane, and flew 244, 547 miles. And on October 6, 2019 she had arrived in her final country (195), the Seychelles.

Jessica After Travelling Her Last Country.

The 36-year-old Jessica Nabongo is known to have founded a company called Jet Black, which organises custom itineraries for small group trips in Africa, plus sells travel gear like branded T-shirts and passport covers.

She is also a brand influencer, working with hotels and hospitality brands.

Education

She holds a Master’s Degree in International Development from London School of Economics and a Bachelor of Arts in English from St. John’s University, New York City.

Jessica Nabongo World travel — Jessica Nabongo

Jessica Nabongo is an inspiration that you can build and create the kind of life you want to live. It all begins with setting a goal.

Angela F. Willaims Makes History As First Black Woman To Become CEO Of United Way Worldwide

In a historic milestone that resonates across the nonprofit sector, Angela F. Williams has assumed the role of CEO at United Way Worldwide, becoming the first Black woman to hold this prestigious position within an organization with a legacy spanning over 130 years. This remarkable appointment marks a transformative moment not only for United Way but for the broader landscape of leadership diversity and inclusivity.

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

With a career spanning three decades, Angela F. Williams has consistently demonstrated her dedication to service and leadership within the nonprofit realm. Her impressive track record includes holding management positions at prominent organizations, including the YMCA of the USA. Currently serving as the President and CEO of Easterseals, an organization dedicated to providing vital disability services to those in need, Williams has earned recognition for her impactful work. In fact, she was recently honored as one of Forbes’ “2021 Women 50 Over 50 Creating Social Change at Scale.”

A Visionary Leader

Dr. Juliette M. Tuakli, Chair of United Way Worldwide Board of Trustees, emphasized the profound significance of Williams’ appointment. She explained that the organization sought a leader capable of galvanizing the United Way Network, supporters, and United Way Worldwide itself around a compelling vision rooted in the pursuit of greater impact, equity, and community growth.

Tuakli stated, “Angela’s background and experience make her uniquely suited to create and drive this vision. The CEO search committee was impressed by her strategic acumen, innovative thinking, and purpose-driven mindset, which we believe will offer a fresh perspective in reimagining United Way and ensuring that we remain relevant and impactful for years to come.”

A New Chapter Begins

Angela F. Williams is scheduled to assume her new role as CEO of United Way Worldwide on October 15th, and she is enthusiastic about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In her own words, she expressed her deep honor at joining the world’s leading charity during a pivotal moment in both the organization’s history and global events. Williams recognizes the critical role that United Way Worldwide plays in supporting individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

“I am absolutely honored to join the world’s leading charity at a key moment in the organization’s history and world events. Around the world, issues of health, education and economic sustainability are at the forefront of ensuring equality and access to a good quality of life. I recognize and appreciate the tremendous role that United Way Worldwide plays in supporting individuals and families and transforming communities,” she remarked.

This historic appointment of Angela F. Williams signifies not only a remarkable achievement in her distinguished career but also a powerful symbol of progress towards greater diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership roles across sectors. Her leadership journey is an inspiration to aspiring leaders and a testament to the transformative potential of individuals committed to creating positive change on a global scale.

Conclusion

Angela F. Williams has embarked on her groundbreaking role as CEO of United Way Worldwide, poised to leave an indelible mark on the organization’s legacy and drive meaningful change in communities around the world. Congratulations to Angela on this historic achievement!

In Interviews&profile September 17, 2023 By Women of Rubies

Edna Gata Emerges As The Non-Fiction Champion Of The Chinaza Favour And Worital Writing Challenge

Edna Gata is a shining example of youthful talent and unwavering faith in the bustling world of creativity and storytelling.

At just 21 years old, Edna is a remarkable undergraduate student at Federal University Lokoja, whose prowess as a Christian writer and storyteller transcends her age.

Proficient in fiction and non-fiction narratives, she possesses a unique ability to draw stories from the personal experiences of individuals, masterfully capturing each moment while emphasizing the profound love of God.

Edna’s ultimate goal is remarkable: illuminating the darkest paths in people’s lives, offering them hope and inspiration.

A Youthful Beacon of Inspiration

Edna Gata’s journey as a writer and storyteller is a testament to the power of youth and faith. At just 21 years old, she defies the notion that age is a barrier to creativity and impact. Her academic pursuits at Federal University Lokoja provide the backdrop for her burgeoning career as a writer and storyteller.

Proficiency in Two Worlds: Fiction and Non-Fiction

One of the distinguishing features of Edna’s talent is her versatility. She navigates effortlessly between fiction and non-fiction, demonstrating a remarkable command over both genres. In fiction, her storytelling prowess conjures vivid worlds and characters that transport readers to places they’ve never been. In non-fiction, she employs her skills to weave real-life narratives into compelling stories that resonate deeply with her audience.

Drawing Inspiration from Personal Experiences

Her unique ability to draw inspiration from personal experiences sets Edna Gata apart as a storyteller. She possesses an innate gift for empathizing with individuals, delving into their stories, and extracting the essence of their journeys. This empathetic approach allows her to craft authentic, relatable, and profoundly moving narratives.

Masterfully Capturing Every Moment

Edna’s storytelling finesse lies in her ability to capture every moment with precision and emotion. Whether she describes the quiet beauty of a sunrise or the turbulence of a life-changing event, her words are imbued with a profound sense of presence. Her narratives transport readers into the story’s heart, allowing them to experience each moment as if they were there.

Emphasizing the Profound Love of God

At the core of Edna’s storytelling is a resounding theme—the profound love of God. Her faith shines through her words, infusing her narratives with hope, grace, and a deep sense of purpose. Through her stories, she seeks to convey the message that no matter how challenging life may be, the love of God is a guiding light that can lead individuals through even the darkest times.

A Noble Mission: Offering Hope and Inspiration

Beyond her creative talents, Edna Gata harbors a noble mission—to offer hope and inspiration to those who tread on the darkest paths in life. Her stories are beacons of light, illuminating the way for those in the shadows. She believes that through her writing, she can touch the hearts and souls of her readers, instilling in them the courage to face adversity with unwavering faith.

A Bright Future

As Edna’s journey as a Christian writer and storyteller unfolds, the future holds boundless possibilities. Her youthful exuberance and unwavering faith are a testament to the transformative power of creativity. With every word she pens and every story she tells, she brings a ray of hope into the lives of her readers.

In a world often clouded by uncertainty and challenges, Edna Gata’s stories remind us that faith, love, and the power of narrative can guide us through even the darkest of times. Her ultimate goal, to offer hope and inspiration, is a noble mission that resonates with readers of all ages. As we anticipate the stories yet to be told by this young beacon of hope, we are reminded that the written word can touch hearts, change lives, and light the path toward a brighter tomorrow.