My Year as a Youth Corper at the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation (SEOF)
As I look back on my one-year journey at the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation (SEOF) during my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable experiences and lessons that have shaped both my personal and professional growth. Working in the Administrative Department at SEOF gave me an opportunity to engage in a wide range of programs that boosted my work experience in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The time I spent there has been transformative, and I can now see the lasting impact it will have on my future career.
One of the highlights of my time at SEOF was my involvement in the medical mission. This experience taught me that teamwork is essential in achieving extraordinary goals. Through the collaboration of people from different backgrounds and areas of expertise, we were able to make a meaningful impact. This reinforced the idea that success isn’t the result of one person’s efforts, but of many individuals working together toward a common objective. This insight into the power of collaboration is something I will carry with me into my future roles.
In addition to the importance of teamwork, I also gained critical interpersonal skills while at SEOF. Working alongside colleagues at all levels of the organization helped me learn how to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse groups of people. Whether it was discussing goals with senior management or working closely with fellow youth corps members, I gained the confidence to navigate various professional relationships. I also developed a deeper understanding of the value of patience, empathy, and respect when interacting with others. These skills are crucial as I continue to grow in my career.
Another key lesson I learned during my time at SEOF was the importance of planning, organizing, and time management. As a Youth Corper in the administrative department, I was often tasked with juggling multiple responsibilities, each with its own set of deadlines. I quickly realized that effective planning was the key to staying on top of everything. I learned how to prioritize tasks, set realistic timelines, and maintain a balance between quality and efficiency. These time management skills will be incredibly helpful in my future professional endeavors, where deadlines and responsibilities will continue to play a major role.
I am especially grateful for the guidance and mentorship of the Executive Director, Mrs. Okoye Chidimma. Her leadership was truly inspiring, and her support played a pivotal role in my growth throughout my time at SEOF. Mrs. Chidimma was not only a boss but also a mentor who took the time to guide, encourage, and challenge me to be my best. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to excellence have left a lasting impression on me. I am incredibly thankful for the trust she placed in me, and I will always remember her as a model of effective leadership.
I would also like to express my deepest thanks to Chinaza Stephen, the Admin Assistant, who was both a line manager and a colleague throughout my time at SEOF. From the very start, Chinaza shared her knowledge and strategies with me, ensuring that I had a solid foundation on which to build my work. Her guidance helped me navigate my responsibilities with confidence and ease. More than that, she became a friend and collaborator. The teamwork, the shared laughter, and the late-night deadlines made this experience even more memorable, and I will forever be grateful for her support and encouragement.
As I now look to the future, I know that the lessons and experiences I gained at SEOF will continue to shape my career. I am confident that the skills I developed in teamwork, communication, time management, and leadership will serve me well in whatever comes next. SEOF has not only helped me grow professionally but also personally, and I will always look back on this year with great fondness.
I wish the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation continued success and growth. May the organization continue to reach new heights, expanding its impact and achieving greatness in all its endeavors. I will forever cherish the memories and the lessons learned during my time here. Thank you, SEOF, for everything. This experience will always remain with me.