HOW NYSC SAED TRANSFORMED MY LIFE: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY TO SELF-DISCOVERY

NYSC’s SAED program is often associated with camp downtime—an opportunity to rest or sneak in a nap during long, seemingly endless presentations. But for me, the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development program was nothing short of life-changing.

Unlike many who approached SAED as just another routine, I went in with an open mind, ready to explore the possibilities. As I listened intently, various skills from baking to fashion design were introduced, each promising a new path of discovery. Honestly, I was initially skeptical about all the options, but remained determined to find value, hoping to uncover something that would resonate with me and help shape my future.

Then came a group of presenters promoting self-development and communication skills like public speaking, leadership, and personal growth. That was the moment it all clicked for me. I found my missing piece in that moment of clarity.

Back in the bunk, I spent time reflecting on my decision. A friend encouraged me to go for it by pointing out the potential benefits of public speaking and leadership expertise, so I signed up for the skill. At that point, it wasn’t just about developing new skills, it was an investment in myself and my future.

For many young people, self-development and communication skills are not the most exciting topics. But for me, they were game-changers. Even as a Mass Communication graduate, the prospect of self-development and communication skills training was an unlikely source of interest. After all, I spent most of my life avoiding public speaking like the plague. My discomfort with public speaking had embarrassed me severally during presentations at the university as I was so nervous that my palms sweated and I would be left stumbling over my words and mumbling through. I knew my fear was holding me back, but I had no idea how to overcome it. So when the opportunity arose to develop these skills, I was intrigued, if not entirely convinced.

 

The first day of class was inspiring as the diversity of stories and backgrounds of my course mates only fueled my excitement for what was ahead. One of our recommended readings was Tim Lahaye's “Why You Act the Way You Do”. I had read the book years before, but the class discussions provided context that helped me gain a deeper understanding of different temperaments including mine and how it shaped my interactions with others. It was eye-opening. As the classes progressed, we delved into the art of communication learning how to structure a speech, capture attention, and lead with confidence.

In preparation for the exhibition that will herald the final day. We were tasked with delivering a presentation on any topic of our choice, so, I chose to share my journey of self-development and the progress I had made in just a few weeks. As I stood up to speak during the mock sessions, my heart was pounding and my hands were slightly sweaty, I felt that surge of adrenaline – Sweet Lilian was nervous again. But the moment I began to speak, the nervousness disappeared. I found my voice and incredibly delivered my points with clarity, engaging the audience as I had been taught.

Halfway through my presentation, the instructor interrupted to express her admiration. The room erupted into applause. I was stunned and deeply overwhelmed by the positive feedback I received from both the instructor and my peers. At that moment, I realized just how far I had come in such a short period.

 

Even though it was quite disheartening that I was one of the many who never had the chance to deliver a presentation during the exhibition due to time constraints, this didn't diminish my sense of accomplishment. The personal growth, the confidence, and the skills I gained from the SAED program were worth more than I could ever imagined.

Reflecting on my experience now, I can’t help but feel immense gratitude. What started as a few days of training blossomed into a transformational period of my life. I never expected to fall in love with leadership, public speaking, or self-improvement, but here I am, more passionate than ever about those things. Isn’t it funny how unexpected opportunities could sometimes lead to profound life changes?

If you are planning to snooze during your SAED classes, I strongly encourage you to reconsider. Whatever skill you choose, immerse yourself fully, because you never know what hidden talents or passions you might uncover.

In the words of Winston Churchill, “There comes a special moment in everyone’s life, a moment for which that person was born. That special opportunity, when he seizes it, will fulfil his mission – a mission for which he is uniquely qualified. In that moment, he finds greatness. It is his finest hour”

Your journey to self-discovery might be closer than you think. Stay open to the possibilities, and remember that sometimes, it is usually the unexpected steps that lead to our “aha moments” - the spark that changes everything, just as it did for me.