Beyond the storm: How hope flourished after disasters

By Ayobami Ajose

Growing up in the vibrant city of Ibadan in Oyo State, Nigeria, I learned the importance of resilience and hope from my Yoruba community.

At 16, the devastating flood swept through our village, destroying homes and livelihoods.

My family’s small farm, where we grew juicy tomatoes and fragrant peppers, was washed away. My parents, siblings, and I were forced to seek shelter in a nearby refugee camp.

As we settled into the camp, I remembered my father’s words: “ÌlÍrun yoo ran wa lÍwÍ lati tun ile wa kÍ.” – God will help us rebuild our home. I held onto those words, finding strength in our ancestors’ wisdom.

A local organisation, “¸gb¹ì Alárùbá,” provided educational resources, teaching us agricultural skills and business management. I excelled in farming, using modern techniques to cultivate crops in the camp’s challenging soil.

My mentor, Mr. Oyedele, noticed my dedication and began to call me Adeolu, the “crown of wealth,” saying I would bring prosperity back to our community.

My breakthrough came when I successfully harvested a bountiful crop of “ewedu” – a popular Yoruba leafy green. The camp’s leadership noticed my achievement and appointed me farm manager.

As I worked, I inspired others to join me. Together, we transformed the camp’s barren land into a thriving oasis, reminiscent of our ancestral homeland. Our farm provided food for hundreds of families, bringing hope to those who thought all was lost.

But the journey wasn’t easy. There were times I doubted myself, feeling overwhelmed by the challenges. Yet, every small victory fueled my resilience, echoing the Yoruba proverb: “Bi emi ba si wa, Ireti n be”- When there’s life, there’s hope.

One day, the government announced plans to rebuild our village. We returned home, and I continued to cultivate our farm. My family’s land flourished once more, and our community began to heal.

Today, I’m a successful entrepreneur, empowering others through agriculture and education. My story teaches me that hope can sprout in the darkest places, resilience is forged in adversity, and community can transform struggles into opportunities.

If you’re facing your own storm, hold onto hope. Seek support, learn new skills, and cultivate resilience. Your story can become one of triumph.