Secondary school days were so much fun. I was quite the social butterfly—extroverted, bubbly, and very much liked. Besides, I was considered very beautiful. Unfortunately, for some reason, I did not performwell in my ‘O’ Levels. I could have let this bring me down, but instead, I suddenly felt motivated by the idea that I could achieve any height I desired if I set my mind to it. So, that’s exactly what I did. I retook my exams and gained admission to the Takoradi Polytechnic, now known as the Takoradi Technical University. There, I worked extremely hard, burning the midnight oil, putting in extra effort for research, and cutting back on my social life to achieve academic excellence. I developed the discipline and focus needed to excel in my studies while also balancing my academic pursuits with supporting my mom back home. I must say that my experience at Takoradi Polytechnic was very enjoyable because it marked a phase in my life where determination and effort could yield whatever I aspired to achieve. It was, therefore, not surprising when I earned my Diploma in Business Study. Also, whenever I returned home, I made it a point to assist my momwith her petty trading, which she carried out in her shop located at Tema Community One Main Market. Among all her children, I was the one who consistently helped her at the shop. National Service came next, at the Kumasi Regional Administration, where I worked as a National Service Personnel in 1995. It was during this period that someone drewmy attention to the fact that I could easily winMiss National Service Personnel. As a person, I loved glitz, glitter, and glamour, and I really loved beautiful things, so I thought to myself, “Why not?” It was an amazing period of my life, especially the final round of the contest. As the MC called the final three contestants to the stage, I held my breath. The whole place was so quiet you could hear a pin drop, and the suspense was so thick you could cut it with a knife. All three of us were beautiful, but it felt surreal when the MC’s voice boomed over the microphone, saying, “And the winner for tonight is… Juliet Christian!” The spectators erupted in a loud cheer. I had won! I had wonMiss NASPA, Ashanti region! It was simply amazing! The year was 1995. After that, people approached me to participate inMiss Ghana. Three individuals wanted to train me for the pageant, trying to convince me of my beauty and intelligence. However, I was hesitant and scared. I had to talk to my mom. “Mom, three people have asked me at different times to join the Miss Ghana Pageant.” At that time, it seemed like a business. I don’t know if it’s still the same. They choose you, groom you. Then, my mother said, “Afua, don’t go and do it. If you do, you will fall prey to men. The men will use you!” So I heeded my mom’s advice; I never take her guidance lightly. 14 The Birthday Journal
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