Mary Oluwakemi, a 30-year-old Mass Communication graduate and professional beautician, has shared the remarkable story of how she overcame financial challenges to complete her university education. Her story, marked by courage, resilience, and determination, has inspired many Nigerians.
Oluwakemi, who hails from Oluyole in Oyo State, grew up in the Agege area of Lagos, where she completed her primary and secondary education. Raised primarily by her grandparents following her parents’ separation, she faced several hardships on her educational journey.
After earning a National Diploma from a polytechnic in Abeokuta, she worked as a waitress for five years before gaining admission to the University of Lagos in 2017. While pursuing a degree through the Institute of Continued Education programme, Oluwakemi balanced academics with her job as a nail technician.
However, financial constraints became a significant hurdle, particularly during her final year, when she was unable to pay her school fees of ₦250,000. After exhausting all options, she took the bold step of seeking financial support publicly by holding placards on the streets of Lagos.
Struggles and Stigma
Oluwakemi’s decision to seek help publicly was met with both support and criticism. She explained that desperation drove her to the streets after facing inappropriate propositions and rejection while seeking assistance privately.
“I had people tell me they would only help if I agreed to sleep with them. It was devastating, but I couldn’t compromise my values,” she said.
Starting at her school gate, she moved to various locations, including Gbagada and Lekki Phase One, to plead for assistance. Despite backlash from some members of the public, others—including market women, passersby, and even an influencer—rallied around her cause.
“I was encouraged by the small contributions from people, especially the market women who stood by me and reassured me not to give up,” she recalled.
A Turning Point For Mary Oluwakemi
Her efforts eventually paid off. A company, Future-tech, donated ₦300,000, while an anonymous donor contributed another ₦300,000. These donations, along with smaller contributions from individuals, enabled her to not only pay her fees but also start a small nail studio in the University of Lagos.
“The support I received taught me that Nigerians are emotional and kind-hearted when you have a genuine cause,” she said.
Lessons and Aspirations
Oluwakemi completed her studies despite numerous challenges, including prolonged academic disruptions caused by strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s values.
“People doubted my intentions because of how I looked. Some even told me to wear tattered clothes to appear more convincing. But I knew I was being honest, and that was what mattered,” she said.
Now a graduate, Oluwakemi is focusing on her career as a beautician and aims to explore opportunities in media production and motivational speaking.
“I want to inspire others to understand that challenges don’t define you. If you stay focused and work hard, you can overcome,” she said.
“When faced with financial difficulties, it’s important to remain determined and focused on your goal, even when people criticise your methods. Not everyone will take the same approach I did, but if you have trusted individuals to confide in, reach out to them—ensure they are people who genuinely want to help and won’t make inappropriate demands.
“Additionally, I strongly advise learning a skill that can generate income. Having a skill can provide financial support and reduce dependency on others. There’s no excuse for not working if your situation allows it. I managed to work and study at the same time, and it made a significant difference.”
Her story is a testament to resilience, showing how determination and the kindness of strangers can help achieve seemingly impossible goals.
