Nigerian youths are not lazy and can excel when challenged. This is the story of 21 years old Miss Sandra Nnennaya Kanu of Arochukwu, Abia State as she bagged a First Class in Accounting from the undisputed best rated University in Nigeria, Covenant University, Otta, Ogun State. She also got certified as an Associate of Chartered Institute of Administrators (ACIA) while in school and professional ICAN Final Examination in-view this October. Spotting her at the convocation ceremony of Covenant University, Otta on Friday, 11th October, 2024 with a lot of attention on her moved the writer to find out who she is.
Sandra did not just pass through the University as the University equally passed through her given her other social, religious, humanitarian and career path activities from the cradle to the University. This spoke huge about her being multitasked, multitalented and multifaceted.
She had her primary school education at Starling School, Lekki Lagos where their motto is “Grooming Stars For Excellence.” Her solid foundation for excellence was laid there.
She attended Christ the Redeemers College, Sagamu, Ogun State, a co-educational school where she exhibited academic prowess and leadership skills. Nnennaya went ahead to become the Council President (Senior Prefect) and historically, the first female to occupy that office in about 30 years of the College. She was a charismatic leader loved by staff and students who gave her 90% votes. A teacher described her as College Mother Theresa. She wrapped it up with 8 Distinctions in WAEC examination and also secured admission same year into Covenant University at 17 years.
At Covenant, the Isinkpu Arochukwu born Miss Kanu beyond academics had her hands tied to the following:
- Career: She read and sat for online programs in coursera.
- Humanitarian Services:
Sandra visionized a Christian Humanitarian Organisation called LOVE LIKE CHRIST OUTREACH with the sole aim of spreading the gospel and impacting the needy in the society. She had support from her friends, family, church and spirited individuals who donated money, clothes, food and tracks. She and her young Team usually share the word of God and proceed to share the gifts. In the last four years, they ministered at Chinese Yard of Friends Colony Estate, Lekki; a settlement at Oniru Beach side; Oworonshoki Area of Mainland and Red Cross Orphanage, Ikeja. - Leadership Exposure:
While at Covenant University, she attended programs as Babcock University Model United Nations; Covenant University Model United Nations; and Women in Leadership conference.
Sandra said “aside God, her parents and family that stood by her; a lot of people made her journey memorable.”
She appreciated her friends who keyed into her Outreach and offered immeasurable supports. On her next plan, the beauty and brain endowed Miss Kanu said she is looking forward to her National Youth Service program. While recognizing people that shaped her career aspirations, she mentioned Dr Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a role model as well as Mrs Nkem Egboma and Pastor Egra Akpofure.
By Bryan Olisakwe
