|
MISS EARTH NIGERIA
SHELLY USMAN
DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD/GROWING YEARS
My childhood was marked by a challenging and nomadic upbringing, moving between South Africa and Zimbabwe while my father sought better opportunities. Living with my stepmother, life was financially strained, making necessities seem like luxury. My teacher became my mentor, guiding me through the challenges of growing up and becoming a lady, even teaching me about feminine hygiene when i couldn't openly discuss it at home. Despite these challenges, i embraced my responsibilities, taking on household chores and cooking for my younger siblings. Though life was a tad bit rosy, at school I had amazing friends. People gravitated towards me a lot and they always wanted to be my friend so i was never lonely per se. I was great at sports, I was part of my school and national cheerleading squad.
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT?
One of the most cherished memories from my childhood was watching my father cook whenever he had the time. This moment left a lasting impression on me, and I now use the cooking skills I learnt from him to prepare food not only for myself but also for my family every day. It's a beautiful way to carry forward a connection to my past and share the warmth and nourishment of family through the meals I create, continuing the tradition of love and togetherness that my father instilled in me.
ANY SPECIAL STORIES OR FACTS ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
Having a twin sister means i have a unique connection, often characterized by an intuitive understanding of each other's thoughts and feelings. My description of my brothers, despite having different mothers, having a strong bond reflects the importance of family unity and the powerful connections we have cultivated. My family's goal-oriented and intellectual nature, coupled with street smarts, speaks to a well-rounded and adaptable approach to life.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?
Facing the temptation of making the wrong circle of friends and falling into unhealthy habits, including drug use, is a challenging and transformative experience. It's not unusual for people to encounter such hurdles in life. What's remarkable is my resilience and self-awareness to recognize the negative influence and make the courageous decision to distance myself from that circle.
My ability to break free from those destructive habits and get back on my feet is a testament to my inner strength and determination. It's a valuable life lesson that has likely contributed to my personal growth and reinforced my commitment to making positive choices. This experience can serve as a reminder of the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences.
My ability to break free from those destructive habits and get back on my feet is a testament to my inner strength and determination. It's a valuable life lesson that has likely contributed to my personal growth and reinforced my commitment to making positive choices. This experience can serve as a reminder of the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and positive influences.
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE TO PROMOTE ECOTOURISM & CLIMATE CHANGE?
My commitment to planting more trees and organizing a team for environmental and beach clean-ups is essential for the well-being of our planet. Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, purifying the air, and providing habitats for wildlife. Beach clean-ups help protect marine life and ecosystems, as well as prevent pollution from entering our oceans.
By taking these proactive steps, one will contribute to conserving the environment, ensuring cleaner water, and safeguarding our precious aquatic ecosystems. These efforts align with global conservation goals and can inspire positive change within communities. Promoting environmental awareness and actively participating in conservation initiatives are vital actions to help mitigate the impacts of climate change and preserve the beauty and health of our aqua planet for future generations.
By taking these proactive steps, one will contribute to conserving the environment, ensuring cleaner water, and safeguarding our precious aquatic ecosystems. These efforts align with global conservation goals and can inspire positive change within communities. Promoting environmental awareness and actively participating in conservation initiatives are vital actions to help mitigate the impacts of climate change and preserve the beauty and health of our aqua planet for future generations.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY?
My pride in my country, Nigeria, is deeply rooted in the resilience and dedication of its youth and the unity that thrives despite its diversity. The commitment of young people to improve their nation is indeed commendable and a driving force for positive change.
The cleaners who diligently work every day to maintain clean roads and a clean environment play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for all citizens. Their efforts contribute to the overall well-being of the community and demonstrate a sense of responsibility and pride in their work.
Furthermore, the ambitious youth involved in sustainability projects, such as developing cars powered by renewable energy sources, showcase innovation and a commitment to addressing pressing global challenges like climate change. Their contributions not only benefit Nigeria but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
My appreciation for these individuals and their collective efforts reflects a sense of hope and optimism for the future of Nigeria, a testament to the potential for positive change and progress within the nation.
The cleaners who diligently work every day to maintain clean roads and a clean environment play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for all citizens. Their efforts contribute to the overall well-being of the community and demonstrate a sense of responsibility and pride in their work.
Furthermore, the ambitious youth involved in sustainability projects, such as developing cars powered by renewable energy sources, showcase innovation and a commitment to addressing pressing global challenges like climate change. Their contributions not only benefit Nigeria but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
My appreciation for these individuals and their collective efforts reflects a sense of hope and optimism for the future of Nigeria, a testament to the potential for positive change and progress within the nation.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVOCACY?
My advocacy is a just green earth, our earth where no one is left behind. Uniting people to lead and live environmental actions for sustainability through positive environmental actions.