The first time travelling out of Ghana was to Benin to represent my university at a debate competition. When I first heard about the debate club, I was intrigued, but I showed up for the audition, and I was immediately overwhelmed. I was timid, low on confidence, and honestly intimidated by everyone else in the room. I didn’t make the cut.
It could have ended there. I could have walked away, convincing myself that debating wasn’t for me, but I was motivated to try again, and so I did. I prepared better, and I made sure I was ready for the next opportunity, even though I wasn’t sure what it would be.
Three weeks later, I got a call that changed everything. The caller from the debate society asked me, “Do you have a passport?” I was surprised they were calling me, knowing fully well I failed the audition. It turned out that no one else who auditioned had a passport, and because I did, they gave me the chance to represent the school in an international debate competition.
That first trip sparked a journey I could have never imagined. It opened a door I never expected. With just three weeks of preparation, I worked closely with the debate president, and together, we took first place in the tourney. It wasn’t just a win; it was the beginning of a journey that would take me to different countries and competitions from 2013 to 2017, honing my skills in public speaking, persuasive argument, and leadership. I went from being nervous and unsure of myself to becoming one of the best debaters in my school.
What started with a single “yes” opened a path to greater opportunities. I went from being the timid girl who didn’t make the cut to a confident debater who travelled internationally, gaining exposure and experiences I never thought possible.
This chapter of my life taught me some of the most important lessons: the power of persistence, the value of preparation, and the courage to show up even when things don’t go your way.
These experiences shaped the foundation of The Pitch Hub, the company I run today. Everything I learnt from persuasive communication to critical thinking has been key in building a business that empowers others to find their voice, just as I found mine.
It’s a reminder to keep showing up and be prepared, even when you don’t know what’s coming. The opportunities are out there, but they often go to the ones ready to seize them.
