On the 25th of December, 2024, I won second place in the Blogshop writing competition. I was really overjoyed but it wasn't because of the prize money. It was a wholesome feeling knowing that an art I created was recognized enough to win top place. 

My journey with blogshop, unizik community began through a referral from a friend. I always had an interest in writing since I was little, but I never had opportunities to share my work with others, and the thought of my work not being good enough held me back, but blogshop gave me an opportunity to speak my voice and truth, in the confines of my own home, although I got slowed down due to some health issues, I never gave up, and I'm so glad i didn't.

I got a discouraging comment from a friend a while ago, that i only center my categories and views on trauma and depression. This is somewhat true because i use myself as a medium to explore and express in diverse stories the pains and mental struggles faced by teenagers and growing adults, especially in African homes today. I use my writing to give voice to those who are either too afraid to express themselves or don't have a chance to. I use my writing as a safe space for those who understand what it feels like, to let them know that they're recognized, seen, and understood, to give them hope that there's a better tomorrow. Even for those who can't relate to the feeling, to show them that people like this exist, to make them know that there are people out there who their kindness alone could make their entire day worthwhile.  This also gave me a sense of hope myself, expressing myself in letters helped me heal from some traumas of life, accepting, crafting and reminding myself that there's a silver lining in the end. But that's not the limit to my potential. I also received a good number of hopeful and beautiful comments which I appreciate wholeheartedly. It is a thing of joy to know that you have the ability to make an impact in other people's lives.

I entered the competition with a mind of just trying my luck, when I was selected among the top 10 contestants who qualified for another trial, I saw a sight of hope's light standing right infront of me. I gave it another go, unsure of if my work would even win third place, but I was overwhelmed when I saw my name in second place with the amount of the prize money out in display. 

 I encourage everyone to go beyond themselves, test their limits, potential and grow for better. I found my place in this community, my true life began in blogshop and I hope to grow in and with it. Winning second place isn't my ending point, it's only the beginning. 

This a also a reminder to be kind, it doesn't pay to be kind, neither does it to be a harm to others. Be kind to yourself and others. We're all human. 

Happy New Year everyone, I wish you many more years ahead.❤️

XOXO, Glory.