From shoemaking to academic excellence: The success story of Blessing Alims, UNICAL first class graduate

A determined young woman, Blessing Alims, has shown that resilience and discipline can truly rewrite any life story, The Very Nigerian.

From juggling multiple jobs, including shoemaking, to fund her education, she rose to graduate with a first-class degree from the University of Calabar.

Her journey reflects sacrifice, leadership, and outstanding academic excellence.

Blessing secured admission into UNICAL in 2020, but like many students facing financial hardship, she had to create her own path to survival. Rather than give in to the pressure, she pushed forward with determination.

Before and throughout her university years, she worked tirelessly, learning shoemaking and fashion design at the Cross River Garment Factory.

At the same time, she gave back to her community by volunteering with organisations such as the Girls’ Power Initiative, balancing service with survival.

Her story stands as a powerful reminder that hard work, focus, and consistency can lift anyone beyond their circumstances.

Despite the demands of work and school, she remained focused on her goal, to succeed academically and make a meaningful impact.

Throughout her time at the university, Blessing not only excel in academics, she stood out in leadership and service.

She studied Peace and Conflict Resolution and graduated with a first-class degree, emerging as the best graduating student in her department and faculty, and ranking among the top graduates of her set.

Her impact on campus was equally outstanding. In her 300 level, she made history by becoming the first female Student Union Government (SUG) President, leading over 45,000 students.

During her tenure, she implemented several impactful initiatives, including improving campus transportation with mini buses, sponsoring students through scholarship schemes, and facilitating access to better water supply through a solar-powered borehole.

Beyond leadership, Blessing remained deeply committed to service and advocacy.

She volunteered as a Media and Communications Officer at the Youth Friendly Hub in UNICAL, where she contributed to sexual and reproductive health education, reaching over 10,000 students.

She also founded the Bagori Care Foundation, impacting thousands of lives through outreach and community development.

Her involvement extended to working with major organizations such as UNFPA Nigeria, ActionAid, and other international bodies, further strengthening her experience and global exposure.

Reflecting on her journey, Blessing described it as far from easy, with moments of breakdown and uncertainty. However, she remained consistent and disciplined, holding on to her goals through every challenge.

She emphasizes one key lesson, discipline is the difference between success and stagnation.

According to her, staying focused, making the right choices daily, and using available resources, especially digital platforms, can open doors to endless opportunities.