Akadiri Opeyemi, a hearing-impaired entrepreneur, faced various challenges on her path to self-realization, including battling low self-esteem, depression, and suicidal thoughts. In an interview with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI, the 28-year-old reflects on how she turned life’s obstacles into sources of inspiration for others.
How was your upbringing?
I hail from Akoko in Ondo State. Growing up was tough as my parents’ love waned when my hearing problems began.
Were you born with a hearing impairment?
No, I contracted measles at age seven, which led to a year-long battle with illness. This affected my hearing and eyesight, plunging me into a new reality during my early teens.
Despite these challenges, I found solace in faint sounds and continued to navigate life with determination.
How did your parents react to your condition?
My parents struggled to come to terms with my hearing impairment, often resorting to ineffective remedies and seeking miraculous healing solutions. This strained our relationship, leading to misunderstandings and physical abuse.
Medical consultations revealed both my hearing impairment and nearsightedness, requiring the use of eyeglasses to correct my vision.
What was your educational experience like?
School posed challenges due to my hearing impairment. Despite facing ridicule and low self-esteem, I pursued a degree in Ecotourism and Wildlife Management at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, graduating in 2022.
Friendships were fleeting, and my career aspirations were hampered by societal expectations and personal setbacks.
What specific obstacles did you encounter?
Navigating friendships and societal perceptions proved difficult, with instances of exploitation and betrayal further complicating my journey. Misunderstandings due to my hearing impairment often left me vulnerable and isolated.
Despite these challenges, I learned to read lips and assertively address instances of discrimination, finding empowerment in advocating for myself.
How do you communicate with others?
How do you maintain motivation during challenging periods?
Facing tough times, I remain optimistic, understanding that difficult phases are temporary, and one’s resilience endures. I put my faith in God and believe that brighter days are on the horizon.
A pivotal event affecting my hearing occurred when my mother’s disciplinary actions led to a significant hearing issue, evidenced by a jaw dislocation following a severe incident in 2018.
Seeking refuge in the school’s health center due to the inability to open my mouth post-incident, I confronted challenges with speech articulation.
Subsequently, referred to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, I reached out to my elder sister, then a corps member, who supported my medical journey.
Upon narrating my childhood history to the doctor in Owo, it was remarkable how vividly I retained past events, a testament to the lasting impact of negative experiences on my memory.
The doctor emphasized the necessity of seeking timely medical intervention for ear-related issues instead of resorting to local remedies that might exacerbate the condition.
Though diagnosed and prescribed medication at the hospital, the follow-up treatment was neglected by my father, leading to a strained relationship and lingering repercussions on my hearing.
Reflecting on past hardships, I’ve upheld resilience, particularly drawing inspiration from surviving a childhood measles outbreak that claimed many of my peers.
Engaging in writing and indulging in K-dramas and C-dramas constitute a source of enjoyment for me. Channeling solitude, I find solace in these hobbies.
As an entrepreneur in the perfume industry, my journey commenced from a place of inspiration, culminating in a small-scale business venture.
Balancing personal and professional spheres poses challenges due to my hearing impairment, necessitating written communication over verbal exchanges. Dealing with societal pressures regarding relationships and marriage is a constant aspect of my daily life.
On a personal note, pivotal moments such as admission to FUTA, receiving unexpected financial support, and initiating my business endeavor stand out as happy milestones.
Drawing moral and occasional financial backing from my family, I navigate life while aspiring for recognition and appreciation from those around me.
Enduring instances of body-shaming and discrimination related to my physical appearance and hearing impairment have been emotionally taxing, particularly during instances of social exclusion.
One poignant recollection involves the tragic loss of my younger brother in 2018, a heart-wrenching episode etched in memory.
Facing setbacks in past relationships due to my hearing impairment, I have encountered emotional turmoil and self-doubt as a result of societal judgment.
How did you remain resilient in the face of hurtful critiques?
Initial devastation upon receiving hurtful comments gradually transformed into a fortified resolve over time, fostering emotional resilience against societal prejudices.
What advice would you offer to individuals with disabilities?
Embrace self-appreciation and gratitude, recognizing the strength within, and fostering hope amidst challenges. Remember, your worth transcends societal perceptions, and hope prevails even in the darkest moments.
What aspects of life do you cherish?
Embracing each day with gratitude, affirming self-worth, and nurturing a positive outlook are key components of my daily routine. Despite financial limitations, my entrepreneurial aspirations propel me forward as I express gratitude for life, family, and cherished relationships.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Envisioning a future defined by personal growth, fulfilling relationships, and entrepreneurial success, I aspire to create a space where I can thrive without fear of judgment or stigma. Gratitude pervades my outlook on life as I strive for a fulfilling journey ahead.