Since 5th January, I faked a lot of smiles and continue to push further like it doesn’t matter but someday I’ll get to share this big flaw. But right now, I’ll focus on impact.
For the past 14 years, I’ve quietly carried a story I first confronted on my silver jubilee.
“Idris, no one will see you as a baby anymore. Stand up for yourself. Whatever skill you need to survive, learn it, master it, keep going.” But the reality then? I didn’t even have a laptop to grow with.
Still, life found a way. Just before my NYSC posting in July 2012, I had already taught myself AutoCAD, thanks to staying with Wole Adebayo, borrowing access to what I couldn’t afford. In less than three months in Enugu, I didn’t just prove myself, I earned more from a single engagement than I made in three years of internship in Ibadan. Preparation met opportunity.
From design and construction projects that took me across villages, towns, and cities, to learning administration, mentorship, leadership, and volunteering, those experiences built the foundation for everything I’m involved in today.
But growth doesn’t erase struggle. The last few months have been tough, sleepless nights, quiet battles, moments I should have asked for help but chose to keep pushing. I’ve wanted to cry… and sometimes, I still do, just away from the noise. To those who are very close to see through my pains, you’ve been lucky to have a life leaning on your shoulders, you saved me and gave me a second chance,
This journey has always been about resilience. But I also know that growth becomes easier when support meets effort. Right now, I’m at another point where the right tools, especially a good laptop right now, will significantly improve my efficiency and help me do more.
I have watched over others people’s need that I discovered how much of myself I’m losing into these sacrifices, but we meeeuve.
If you feel led to support in any way, you can reach out, I’ll share details privately. Every little support will go a long way. Today, I’m definitely going home with one regardless 🙈
And to myself, happy 25th again. You can cry if you need to… just don’t let it stop you.
Idris Animasaun
📸
@the25th_studios 
