I found myself standing at a crucial crossroads in my academic journey, right at the intersection between JSS3 and SSS3. The weight of the decision ahead was immense, as I had to choose between two diverging paths that would ultimately shape my future. Being an outstanding student in my junior secondary years, where I consistently ranked among the top three achievers, created a set expectation among my peers and teachers regarding my future academic trajectory.

Complicating matters further was the professional background of both my parents, with my mother being a dedicated nurse and my father immersed in the field of pharmacy. The prevailing assumption from everyone around me was that I would inevitably follow in their footsteps and pursue a career in medicine.

However, amidst these external expectations, I held a deep passion for art that ignited a fire within me. I found solace and fulfilment in engaging with various art forms; whether it was through my adept drawing skills, musical talents, or my insatiable craving for storytelling, I felt alive and inspired by the creative process.

Yet, I was not blind to my affinity for the sciences as well. The world of logic and facts always captivated me, with the wonders of science never failing to intrigue my curious mind. Thus, the decision looming before me felt like an insurmountable challenge, torn between my love for art and the allure of the scientific realm.

With meticulous research and soul-searching, I eventually unearthed a harmonious blend of my passions. Architecture was my golden egg.

This discovery propelled me towards the Science class, solely driven by the desire to pursue my newfound dream course. Stepping into a predominantly male environment in the pursuit of technical drawing, a crucial prerequisite for studying architecture, presented its own set of challenges.

The initial encounter with my strict TD teacher, who wielded the cane with authority, served as a baptism by fire. Despite facing obstacles and unfair treatment, I persevered with unwavering determination, consistently excelling in technical drawing throughout my senior secondary years.

The arduous journey continued with a series of demanding examinations, including the WASSCE, UTME, and POST-UTME, culminating in the momentous achievement of surpassing the cut-off mark for admission into a prestigious Nigerian university to study architecture. However, the surprises did not end there, as I discovered myself among a mere seven female students in a class of approximately sixty peers.

The reaction from others upon learning of my chosen field of study ranged from astonishment to admiration to shock, a testament to the rarity of women pursuing architecture at the university level. It never ceases to amaze me why many people still assume that there are some things that females cannot venture into.

Over the years, I have truly observed a profound and encouraging shift in the way society perceives and treats women, gradually eroding the suffocating stereotypes that have long hindered their progress. Despite this positive evolution, it remains disheartening to acknowledge that numerous women continue to find themselves ensnared within the confining boundaries of artificially constructed limitations, perpetuating a false narrative that defines what they can or cannot achieve.

In my current position as a dedicated architecture student, I feel compelled to convey a vital message of empowerment and resilience to my fellow women.

There are great female architects both in history and today such as Zaha Hadid, Prof Cordelia Osasona, Arc. Jumoke Adenowo, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi. I look up to these women as role models of what I see to achieve, to follow the paths they've blazed in telling remarkable stories that transcend generations.

In my exploration of architectural design, I actively pursue projects that are deeply rooted in social and environmental causes within my community. From sustainable housing initiatives to the development of community centres and schools aimed at nurturing education, I am committed to utilizing architecture as a means to positively impact lives. Through my innovative designs, I strive to demonstrate how the principles of architecture can be harnessed to bring about tangible improvements in people's everyday experiences.

Furthermore, I channel my creativity into rejuvenating existing urban spaces through personal initiatives that reimagine conventional structures and public locations. Whether it involves the restoration of historic buildings, the creation of interactive urban gardens, or the design of temporary installations that ignite dialogues, I am dedicated to transforming spaces in a way that sparks inspiration and revitalizes the surrounding environment.

Leveraging my architectural expertise, I wholeheartedly embrace the use of digital storytelling techniques to convey my design concepts effectively. As I enhance my proficiency in this area, my goal is to produce immersive 3D models, captivating animations, and even virtual reality simulations that vividly portray the impact of my architectural visions. Sharing these digital creations on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube will amplify the reach and influence of my work, enriching the discourse on architecture's transformative potential in shaping societies.

Beyond my creative endeavours, a key aspect of my journey involves serving as a role model and advocate for greater diversity and inclusivity in the architectural field. Through platforms like Medium, Ikoafrica, and Instagram, I document my experiences in architecture school, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives that define my path as a female architect. By sharing these narratives, I aspire to inspire others, challenge stereotypes, and foster a more inclusive environment for aspiring architects.

Additionally, I prioritize establishing connections with fellow female architects and students, both online and within professional networks. By cultivating a supportive community, we empower each other, exchange valuable insights, and collectively advocate for equal opportunities in the architectural realm. This collaborative effort is instrumental in amplifying our voices, effecting positive change, and shaping a more inclusive landscape for future generations of architects.

In my commitment to nurturing the next wave of architectural talent, I actively engage in mentorship opportunities targeted at young girls in STEM programs and workshops. By stepping into this mentoring role, I aim to showcase the diverse and exciting possibilities that architecture offers, encouraging budding designers to pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to the world of design and construction.

Furthermore, I extend my creative pursuits beyond architectural practice by delving into the realm of writing. As a creative writer, I contribute thought-provoking articles on topics such as African architecture, the role of female architects in the industry, and the intersection of design with social issues to various online platforms and blogs. Through my writing, I aim to elevate important conversations surrounding architecture while highlighting the contributions of African women to the field.

Lastly, I infuse my architectural drawings with multimedia elements and social commentary, creating impactful visual art that explores themes relevant to African women and their experiences. By merging architecture with my passion for art, I strive to craft expressive pieces that resonate with audiences, sparking reflections on culture, identity, and societal dynamics through a creative lens.

My story is unique and I am learning to embrace the intersection of my identity as a woman, an architect, and an African. I'm building my passion for design and my desire to make a difference, and making them shape my creative journey. By showcasing my talent and perspective, I hope to inspire others and redefine what it means to be a female architect.

I'm learning that women must cast off the shackles of doubt and stand tall in their convictions, rejecting the notion that they must conform to a flawed perception of their capabilities. Embracing their inherent courage and determination, women must seize their rightful place in society with unwavering confidence, proclaiming proudly to the world, "I am the architect of my own narrative, assuming the dual roles of storyteller and protagonist as I embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment for all to witness and celebrate."