Mary Oluwakemi, a 30-year-old Mass Communication graduate from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has captured the hearts of many with her remarkable story of resilience. Faced with financial challenges that threatened her education, Mary turned to the streets to seek help, a decision that changed her life forever.
Early Struggles and Determination
Mary grew up in Agege, Lagos, under the care of her grandparents after her father left her mother. Despite completing her primary and secondary education, furthering her studies was a struggle. After earning a National Diploma from a polytechnic in Abeokuta, financial difficulties forced her to work as a waitress for five years.
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In 2017, Mary gained admission to UNILAG through its Institute of Continued Education program. Balancing work and studies, she worked as a nail technician during the day and attended lectures in the evening. However, the financial burden persisted, delaying her graduation due to strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Turning Desperation into Opportunity
Mary’s biggest challenge came in her final year when she needed ₦250,000 to pay her school fees. After failing to secure help through direct messages on social media, she decided to seek financial support publicly. Armed with a placard, she began her journey from the school gate to various locations, including Gbagada and Lekki Phase One.
While some mocked her efforts, others supported her. Mary recalls how market women, pepper sellers, and even strangers contributed to her cause. A significant breakthrough came when a live video of her plea went viral, attracting donations from individuals and organizations like Future-Tech, which gave her ₦300,000.
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Facing Criticism and Overcoming Stigma
Mary endured harsh criticism from peers and the public. Some questioned her sincerity, while others suggested she use her appearance to manipulate her situation. However, Mary remained steadfast, driven by her goal of completing her education.
Her perseverance paid off as she not only raised the required amount but also used the surplus funds to open a small nail studio on campus. This step marked a turning point, enabling her to graduate and begin building a career in beauty and media.
Lessons in Resilience and Gratitude
Mary’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of community support. She acknowledges the contributions of everyday Nigerians who believed in her cause and encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
She advises students facing similar challenges to explore legitimate avenues for assistance and hone skills that can provide financial support. “When you do things like this, people will talk, but you have to fight for what you want,” she says.
Future Aspirations
Mary is now focused on building her career as a beautician and motivational speaker. She hopes to inspire others with her story, emphasizing that success often requires unconventional approaches.
Conclusion
Mary Oluwakemi’s journey from financial despair to personal triumph is a powerful reminder that determination and community support can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her story encourages others to persevere, adapt, and ultimately achieve their goals.
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