Written by Ololade Tiamiyu.
Have you ever heard the saying, “The most beautiful treasures are found in the most unlikely and unseeming places”? I used to nod along, thinking I understood. But it wasn’t until my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year that I truly experienced the profound truth behind these words.
The Unexpected Posting
Picture this: a fresh graduate, with the plans to build a portfolio, prepare for employment, and maybe squeeze in some fun adventures along the way. That was me, ready to take on the world during my service year. But life, as it often does, had other plans.
Instead of the posted to the city I’d imagined, I found myself posted to a grassroots community in Kwara State, fondly known as “The State of Harmony”. At first glance, it seemed my carefully laid plans had been unceremoniously flushed down the drain.
“Have you ever known you had the potential for something but never found the right platform and push to bring it out of you?”
This question echoed in my mind as I grappled with my new reality. Little did I know, the answer was about to unfold most unexpectedly.
A Chance Encounter
By chance—or perhaps divine providence—I crossed paths with someone who introduced me to Prikkle Academy Makerspace. When they described this place, I could have sworn such an institution couldn’t possibly exist in the same extremely local area where I was to spend the next 11 months of my life.
But exist it did, and it was about to change everything.
Unleashing Hidden Potential
Prikkle Academy Makerspace became the catalyst for a transformative journey. Here’s what I discovered:
- Writing Skills Refined: Through various sessions on content writing, the writer and content creator in me found a voice and grew stronger.
- Public Speaking Opportunities: I was given platforms to speak to young secondary school students, inspiring them about digital skills.
- Project Management in Action: The highlight of my time was the inception and success of Project 40, an initiative to provide school uniforms and sandals for primary school pupils in the community.
Project 40: A Community Effort
Project 40 was more than just a service project; it was a testament to the power of community collaboration. Prikkle Academy Makerspace didn’t just provide a workspace; they became partners in our mission:
- They offered their time and resources.
- They facilitated conversations with community leaders on behalf of the project.
- They represented the institutional support that gave our project credibility.
As I reflect on the success of Project 40, I can’t help but mention Mr. Jamiu Balogun, whose support was instrumental in bringing our vision to life.
The Lesson Learned
My service year taught me a profound lesson: the most fascinating treasures are indeed found in the most unlikely places. What seemed like a setback—being posted to a rural community—turned out to be the greatest opportunity for growth and impact.
“I’m glad I served in Afon.”
These words come from a place of genuine gratitude. To Prikkle Academy Makerspace and all those who contribute to building skills and empowering individuals in the community: thank you. We are proud products of your organization, living proof of the transformative power of unexpected opportunities.
As I move forward in my journey, I carry with me not just new skills and experiences, but a deeper appreciation for the hidden potentials that lie in unexpected places. And to anyone facing an uncertain path, I say: embrace it. Your greatest treasure might be waiting just around the corner.
Have you ever found an opportunity in an unexpected place? Share your story in the comments below!
