News

A Journey of Self Discovery By Ehwe Joan Ossai
Age: 13
Student, SS1 – St Ambrose College, Usiefrun

I’m proud to stand here today as an alumna of the Polish and Shine programme—here at the Master Builder Institute of Media Studies, Otiro Owhrode—a journey that helped me discover my voice, my confidence, and the power in being me.

A few years ago, when I entered secondary school, it was hard for me. It felt hostile, and my grades were a mess. They said I was dull—I proved them right by failing my exams. But my parents believed it was just a phase. They told me I was better than my grades. Every result I brought home, stained with red pens of failure, my mom tore and told me, “These are not your real results.”

Then came the Polish and Shine camp. At first, I was unsure of myself. But as we learnt, I began to see myself differently.

I learnt how to walk tall—with good posture and elegant strides—not just in how I move, but in how I carry myself in life. I learnt etiquette: how to speak kindly, how to sit with confidence, and how to behave with dignity. Some people mistake my elegant posture for pride. What they don’t know is, I’m not proud in a negative way. I’m just proud of who I am—prouder still of whose I am.

I also learnt how to communicate clearly: to express my thoughts, to listen better, and to believe that my voice matters.

One of my favourite parts was learning about coding and robotics.

After the camp, something amazing happened—I became better in school. In my JSS 3 exams, I got 7 A’s and 2 C’s! That may not be perfect, but for me, it’s a big victory. And I know the journey has just begun. My parents didn’t need to tear this result.

However, the biggest change wasn’t just in my grades—it was in how I saw myself.

I began a journey—a journey of self-discovery.

I started to believe that I am enough.

I realized that being unique is not a weakness—it’s my power. I didn’t need to blend in. And when people said things to pull me down… I didn’t bend.

Because I discovered that my thoughts about myself matter more than what others say.

To anyone out there struggling—to any girl, boy, or young person who feels like they're not good enough—I want you to know this:

The journey to self-realization is an inward journey.

• Know yourself
• Face your fears
• Accept your mistakes
• Explore new things
• Trust your own voice
• Believe that you are enough.

Today, I stand here not just as a student, but as a Polish and Shine alumna—bold, bright, and ready for the future.

To the organisers at Master Builder Institute of Media Studies, the facilitators, and everyone who believed in me—even when I didn’t believe in myself—thank you.

Because of Polish and Shine:

• I now walk with purpose.
• I speak with confidence.
• I learn with joy.
• And I shine—inside and out.

Thank you.