by Adetutu Morenikeji
To those of us who began life with little or no privilege, shaped by the circumstances of our birth, the journey has never been a straight path. Opportunities often seem scarce, and the world around us molds our perceptions of what is possible.
Today, I came across a trending video of young children from a rural community being asked what they aspire to be when they grow up. Their responses sounded amusing to many, quickly turning into viral content shared across platforms for entertainment. But beyond the laughter, I saw something deeper—something too familiar.
I remember my early years in a public primary school, where my dreams were limited to the life I saw around me. If you had asked me then what I wanted to become, I would have eagerly said, a roasted corn seller. Why? Because the woman who sold roasted corn beside our house was the most successful person I knew. I admired how people lined up to buy from her, how she skillfully attended to her numerous customers, and, most importantly, how she always gave me free maize on my way home from school, easing the weight of my tired little feet under the scorching sun.
Years later, with exposure and access to knowledge, I tread a path I never knew existed for me. It took more than just my environment—it took access to education, mentorship, and intentional guidance to widen my perspective.
This viral video should be more than just a moment of amusement; it should serve as a wake-up call to the deep-seated limitations within the African system. It is a reminder that many children dream only within the boundaries of what they see, not because they lack ambition, but because they lack access to broader possibilities.
As social impact advocates, we have a duty to bridge this gap. If these young minds are given exposure to information, relatable career talks, and mentorship, their cognitive development will expand, and they will begin to dream beyond their immediate surroundings.
This is not a one-man duty—it is a collective responsibility. The future of Africa depends on how well we nurture the aspirations of our children today.
My name is Detutu_mi, and I remain an advocate for Child Survivors.
