Hana Ema Writes

 December whispers its last secrets, and here I am, watching 2024 shrink in my rearview mirror like a collection of polaroid moments scattered across the dashboard. What a ride it's been – some days felt like cruising down the Third Mainland Bridge at midnight, others like getting stuck behind that one driver who thinks the speed lane is their personal meditation space. Remember those New Year's resolutions? The ones we wrote with such conviction that we practically engraved them into our souls? Mine included taking on exercises to cut my hanging tummy… I am still on it. Did you have similar plans?  To start a course, prepare for your next promotion, quit a habit, or take a bold step? But here's the thing about failures – they're just dress rehearsals for future standing ovations. Those stumbles? They're just your feet practicing new dance moves. That business idea that flopped? Consider it market research with a side of character development. The relationship t...

  The journey to conceive is one of the most deeply personal and emotional experiences, shared by couples across the world yet felt in profoundly individual ways. Whether in bustling cities or quiet rural villages, the wait to grow a family is often accompanied by a rollercoaster of emotions—hope, anxiety, frustration, and faith. For many women, the pressure to conceive quickly is intense. In cultures where a woman’s worth is closely tied to motherhood, every passing month can feel like a silent judgment. Whispers from family, uninvited advice from friends, unsolicited prayers at family gatherings and the weight of societal expectations only add to the burden. The question, “When will you have a baby … or another baby?” can be harmless to some, but to those waiting, it cuts deeply, often leaving a scar that’s invisible to the outside world. Men, though less openly, face their own struggles. In societies where masculinity is linked to fertility, men may silently battle feelings ...

Let’s face it—November is a rollercoaster. One moment you’re diving into a turkey leg at Thanksgiving, dodging family debates. The next, you’re playing tug-of-war over the last discounted air fryer on Black Friday. But then comes Giving Tuesday: a breath of fresh air where we trade shopping madness for something much more meaningful. Giving Tuesday is the global day of giving, and let’s be honest, we need it. It’s the holiday season’s antidote to consumer fatigue—a chance to pause, reflect, and spread some joy. Instead of accumulating more stuff, it’s a day to ask, “How can I make a difference?” Why Giving Tuesday? Because Generosity > Buyer’s Remorse We’ve all been there: convincing ourselves this year we’ll only buy essentials, only to end up with a cart full of scented candles and a banana slicer . (Seriously, how did that happen?) Giving Tuesday offers a better way to spend: giving back to causes and communities that truly matter. When you give—whether it’s money, time, or tale...

 If there’s one thing Nigerians know how to do, it’s show up for each other. From “aso ebi” contributions to endless WhatsApp group fundraisers, we’re pros at pooling resources to solve problems. That’s why Giving Tuesday—a global day of giving—is right up our alley. It’s a chance to channel our “we rise by lifting others” energy into something powerful. Think of it as a break from the Black Friday and Cyber Monday madness, where instead of buying things, we focus on giving back. And let’s be real, after navigating November’s traffic and Jollof-fueled family gatherings, a little generosity could be just what the doctor prescribed to help you calm your nerves. Why Giving Tuesday Fits Our Vibe In Nigeria, generosity isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s part of our DNA. Whether it’s supporting your younger cousin’s school fees, helping a friend “meet up” with rent, or sending provisions to the village, we understand the power of giving. But Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to thin...

 Hey friends, it’s Giving Tuesday—a global day dedicated to giving back. I know what you’re thinking: “Giving? In this economy?!” But hear me out—this isn’t about emptying your wallet. It’s about using whatever you have (money, time, skills) to make someone else’s life a little brighter. As future professionals, doctors and honourable people in society, giving is already part of your DNA. Whether it’s helping a classmate with notes or volunteering for free health screenings, you know the value of serving others. Giving Tuesday is just a chance to take that same energy and apply it beyond your immediate circle. How You Can Give Back—Even on a Student Budget Your Time : Volunteer for a cause you care about, like organizing health outreaches or visiting a children’s ward to cheer up patients. A little time can mean a lot to someone in need. Your Knowledge : Share tips, resources, or even host mini tutorials for younger students struggling with coursework. Knowledge shared is knowledg...