Being a student is stressful, and being on an internship is more stressful  . Since my last examination, I haven’t had much time for myself, to do the things I love; my business, writing, or simply resting. I often feel tired. Yet, it’s not entirely bad; at least I’m not idle. I’m learning, growing, and finding meaning in the process.

Two Fridays ago, the organization where I interned went to cover a pageantry event. I decided to follow because it was a fashion show. The event lasted about six hours. We went earlier in the afternoon to set up the crane, then returned later in the evening for the main event, which started at 8:00 p.m.

The moment we arrived, the scenery was breathtaking, colorful, bright, and full of life. I didn’t want to miss such a great opportunity, especially to see how a crane is used for video recording.

It wasn’t an easy day, but something stood out despite the exhaustion. I learned something, and more importantly, I was reminded of something; the beauty of who we are as a people. There’s something about sitting still and resonating deeply; that’s when your thinking becomes most alive.

Africa is a blessed land. As the models from different African countries walked the stage, I couldn’t help but watch in awe and gratitude. Each step, each smile, each dance spoke volumes, a silent celebration of our shared identity.

In the colors of our skin lies our pride; in the richness of our culture lies our story. Our voices, our songs, and our attire carry the essence of who we are. We don’t need to shout our names for the world to notice us, our presence speaks loudly. Wherever we stand, there is already a space for us, marked by strength, beauty, grace, and resilience.

Africa is not just a land of soil and buried riches. Those can be taken away. But what truly defines us is our innate gifts, resilience, and creativity, qualities that can never be stolen. Our true diamonds and gold lie in our humanity, in all that we embody.

So, stay African. Stay true to who you are. Because being African is not just an identity, it’s a reflection of strength, beauty, and divine grace.
Love Africa. Be African.