Jael Samuel is the author of Break the shackles of peer pressure. In this interview session with our correspondent, Mercy Ezeokonkwo, she flashes back to memory lane on how she got started as a writer. She defines success as fulfilment. As well as leaving an advise for readers.
Excerpt;
Please tell us about yourself
My name is Jael Jahdiirim Samuel. I am from Imo State. Obowo to be precise. I currently work for USAID in the M-rite project as an M&E assistant. I am equally a writer. My very first book will be launched on the 18th of February 2023. I am from a family of 4, and a big fan of reading and staying informed. I am in my twenties.
How long have you been in this field?
Ever since I was a young girl, I have always nursed the idea of writing a book. My mom told me that I started writing when I was much younger and I will always tell her that I have written a novel, (when I must have filled my notebook with rubbish).
In 2013, I rekindled my interest in writing and I started writing my very first book which I later abandoned. In 2016 when I got admission and was mapping out what to do with my life throughout my years at the university and what I intend to achieve within these years, I included publishing my first book and writing two more as a must-do before I finish university. But, distractions came and I couldn’t continue with the plan.
In 2021, which was the year I was preparing for my final undergraduate exams, I saw something that inspired me to start writing another book, and then I promised myself that I was going to make it a reality and now it is a reality. So I can say, I have been writing ever since I was younger.
Why did you decide to go into this field?
Writing is the best way I express myself. I pour my heart and everything in me when I am writing. Since I have so much in me that I need people, especially young ones, to hear, I decided to go into the field of writing in other to reach my target audience-young ones, everywhere they are.
You are a force to reckon with in the society, how did you grow to this level?
Like I mentioned earlier, it was all a childhood dream. Even when I tried to avoid writing, I kept seeing reasons to write. My inner voice kept urging me to write. Final push happened when I was in school. I refused to silence that voice. I went ahead and started writing with my pen and paper, even when I wasn’t a professional writer.
One thing I always told myself in my alone moment is that, I want to live a life of impact. I want to be that kind of person another young person will see and feel inspired and motivated. Because this is the kind of life I want, I always make sure I am living a life that is in line with my plans. I am open to learning and correction, in fact, that has been a key factor in my growth. I invest my time and resources in books. I currently have a book club where book lovers like me read and discuss books together. Reading has shaped me. Reading has helped me in ways I never imagined. Coupled with my parents who always make sure I am on the right track.
How do you define success?
To me success is finding fulfillment in one’s life and areas of interest.
