Janet Thomas is a Nigerian student and digital entrepreneur. Recently she speaks to our correspondent, Mercy Ezeokonkwo, about her journey to charity, what purpose means to her and shares her view on skills youths should learn to remain relevant in times like this. Excerpts
May our readers know you?
I am Janet Thomas, from Abia State, Nigeria. I am a 5th year Medical student of Abia State University. The youngest independent radio program producer in Abia state 2014 and currently into Direct Response Copywriting.
Does your background affect what you do?
Well, yes, I had always wanted to be a medical doctor when I was just a child. And I grew up in an entrepreneurial home, so I just found a way to combine the two and flow with it.
What are the things you know now that you wish you knew three years ago?
The power of storytelling, the power of Social Media, and the power of networking.
What skills should a 21st century youth learn and utilize effectively in times like this?
First is Digital Skill. This is because the world has gone global. Our competition is no longer local but global. So a youth should get the digital skills necessary to navigate in the global market. No youth should say he/she doesn’t know how to use basic computer programs and applications,
Second is Public Speaking: Every youth should know how to express his thoughts logically and in a coherent manner. This skill is a must.
Third is Emotional Intelligence: Any youth who can master his/her emotions is 10 years above his peers
What does purpose mean to you?
Purpose means discovering what you can do better than anyone else, even if it’s sweeping the streets, and doing so excellently.
What’s your purpose and how did you discover it?
I believe I am still in the process of Purpose discovery. The Bible says,’ whatever your hands find to do, do it with all diligence’. I do this, whatever my hands find to do, I do it well. This little accomplishment compounds to shape up my life’s essence.
Breaking free from limiting mindset, what did it cost you?
I was born and have lived my whole life in a third world nation that alone is limiting. Self awareness is very important in breaking free from limiting mindset. Self awareness and information has helped me a lot in breaking free from limiting mindset.
What’s your personal mantra that keeps you going?
My fight is different. So I act different.
Who are those who inspire you greatly?
My Mentors are Dr Jane Dire, my Pastor, Pastor Jerry Eze and John Obidi, founder of Headstart Africa.
Share your achievements so far.
Lol. Ok, I have trained about 121 youths online on Skill Discovery and Monetization. I also have a course called Professional Skill monetization course, where I guide you on how to discover and monetize your skills. I have been featured in a podcast. Where I talked about how to turn Your Skills to Cash…. To listen, click here https://bit.ly/2OjaxG0. I also have an ebook called the SmartAssStudentpreneur, it’s a book on how to start up a business as a student with little or no capital.
What could be the motivation behind all you do?
My motivation is to be the best I can be in my lifetime. I want to live my life to the fullest. Unleash every single drop of potential in me.
Where do you see yourself next five years?
In 5 years time, I would be a medical doctor, and a blockbuster Movie Producer. And I would have travelled to at least 5 countries of the world.
Leave an advice for the Nigerian Youths
Our youths have what it takes to dominate globally. We need to put aside every distraction such as Social media rants, gossip blogs and embrace personal development, because our fight is truly different. We need to embrace technology as a tool to provide solution to local and global needs instead of being used as a channel of distraction.
