When I got the invite, I was truly elated because just between me and you the ticket fees of Sh 3500 is a little steep for a student. Anyhow, being a girl my first worry was what am I going to wear being that the dress code was red carpet. I agonized about it for a while but lo! and behold things came together. I have my people to thank for that, they helped with a few pointers on what to wear. Below are a few pics, forgive the setting and all, I literally had to ask one of the staff at the Hilton to take the pics plus my phone was low on charge.
Well I know one day I will make it big and paparazzi will be lining up just to get a shot of me but for now, let my 8 MP camera do it for me.
So anyway, where was I? Oh the dinner, so I arrived at the Hilton and was in the company of an acquaintance. While there I got to meet some new people and reconnect with some old friends. I would be lying if I said I was a networking ninja but baby steps right?
I happened to be seated at the same table as one of my role models Caroline Mutoko. I was a little star struck. Kept stealing glances at what she had worn, how she was reacting to other speakers. I was in awe I must admit. Back to the program, the night started off with a key note speech by Dr. Laila Macharia , an amazing woman, who talked about Africa as a continent, its future, anticipated changes and challenges and what part we have to play as young people. I always hear people call each other "learned friend" heck even I did that recently during a class debate but trust me she is learned. I just kept admiring her eloquence and she just oozed wisdom and insight.
Next up was Caroline Mutoko who spoke about different by distinction. Her speech really got to me, she kept saying better is ok but it doesn't cut it. Different is the key to success. Being different by being yourself as we are all unique and all have something to bring to the table. She condemned mediocrity and settling saying if you are not yourself you are robbing others of experiencing the real you. This does not add any value to you or anyone around you.
This really hit home for me because as a person, I have always wanted to be perfect. The perfect girl, perfect role model, perfect big sister, perfect daughter, perfect student and the list goes on and on.I have realized the best way to be happy and to be perfect is to just be the best I can be. In my search for perfection, I have hidden all I considered imperfect from the world. I have suppressed my voice just to avoid rocking the boat. But guess what, only the Crazy Ones actually make an impact on the world.
As for being a blogger, I have been a little mediocre, I have always written from a less personal stand point, I guess not really wanting people to know everything. For Pete's sake this is the first time I have posted my own picture on My OWN blog! I promise to change all that, although this doesn't mean as a reader you will get an all access pass, hehe we all need our private moments right? I will however make it more personal.
Back to the dinner, Heshan De Silva crowned the night by giving his life story and moving beliefs and personal philosophies. Gotta admit I am impressed by how much he values his faith. Note to self-revive my spirituality. Anyway, my take home from his speech was how he did not instantly gratify himself even after making it big. He waited! I was challenged to practice delayed gratification which well is not my best subject. I have a real problem with saving especially but so help me I am a changed girl.
I have been trying to put myself out there and well I got the chance on this night. They called for the most confident ladies to strut it and they would choose three best dressed ladies. I mumbled a prayer and walked to the front in my four inch heels which I am just getting the hang of. I was trembling but put on a brave face. The judges deliberated, and at some point I saw them looking in my direction. My heart was pounding ! I was going to be chosen! So I waited to hear my name but sadly they picked the girl standing next to me. :-( Why ? Why? Why? Anyway I clapped for her so maybe next time, that was not my happy ending to the night. All in all I am proud of me that I actually believed in me and walked on loud and proud!
I ended the night with some more shots I will proudly share.... oh and I had forgotten to mention that the MC for the night was DR Ofweneke the comdeian, quite a funny man ! I had an amazing night all the same.
P.S. I don't handle rejection all that well so I might have made a stop in my dinner dress at Brew Bistro for a quick one ! OMG! and I encountered a full on gay guy and had to admit to myself I am not as open minded as I thought! The fact that he made a pass at my boyfriend did not help the situation .
Gotta go! This post is too long anyway!
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