Akamelu Somtochukwu Vanessa of Princeton College, Surulere, is a lively and intelligent young woman who emerged as winner of the Secondary Schools category at the Grand Finale of the 11th National Travel Essay Competition (NTEC) 2022 which took place recently. In an exclusive interview with Travel & Business News, she talks about the ups and downs of her journey to fame, what it feels like to be the winner of this prestigious essay competition and her plans for the future.
Q: Congratulations! You won the NTEC 2022 first prize, Secondary Schools category: how do you feel?
I don’t know what to say. I’m so excited…I’m very happy…I can’t believe I won. Someone, pinch me. It’s like it’s not real. It feels like a dream.
Q: How do you intend to utilize this opportunity that has been given to you?
I never actually thought I would win. It didn’t cross my mind while I was giving my presentation. But when they called my name, I fell to the ground and I told myself it wasn’t possible, until I heard my name again. I have not really thought of what I’d do with the prized money but I think I’ll just save it in case I need it in the future.
Q: What advice can you give other students who, because of your journey, will be motivated to take part in the competition in the future?
I’ll say just believe in yourself and have fun. If you don’t, then it’s useless. I had fun while doing it. To be truthful, I really didn’t believe in myself. My classmates were the ones who kept telling me I did well, urging me not to cry, because I was actually crying earlier. So I never thought I’d be the winner. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re the winner or not because making it to the top ten is amazing. So be proud of yourself, even if you don’t win.
Q: Who are the people you are most thankful to and why?
I am thankful to my mum and dad, Mrs. and Mr. Akamelu; my grandparents, my teachers and my friends, especially Mouyin Informa, Ella and my best friend Johnson Emmanuella for being with me throughout my journey. I am also thankful to Travel & Business News, the participants and all those who made this event possible.
Q: Any final words for the organizers of NTEC?
NTEC is so wonderful and I am grateful to the organizers for putting together something like this for people like me; for allowing us to travel around the world. I’m thankful for them, and I pray God continues to bless them.
