The Leap of Faith
When I decided to leave Nigeria to pursue my MA, it was less a single moment of decision and more a chain of little ones, each pushing me closer to the path I wanted.
I’ve always loved media—I started blogging in my third year of university, even though I was technically studying microbiology. But while I was in school, you’d find me doing everything but “microbiology” things: acting, hosting events, dancing, debating. Somewhere along the line, I realized I’d been searching for a stage, not a lab.
By the time I discovered my passion, it was too late to change my course, but I promised myself I’d pursue a master’s in media someday. And finally, that “someday” came.
I chose the UK because I wanted a place that would give me a quality education, something I could use globally, and… well, home didn’t feel quite like home anymore. After the #EndSARS protests, a sense of hope for a better Nigeria seemed to be slipping away, and I felt that leaving was the best way forward.
Yes, I was worried and uncertain. I had an incredible job as Head of Marketing at Pennee (now Yana) back in Nigeria, and moving meant balancing work, a new country, an MA program, being a content creator and trying to build a life while doing all the adult-y things.
But I did it anyway, with a stomach full of hope. My arrival in the UK was a lot softer than most; a dear friend helped me get settled, moving me into my new place and showing me the ropes. I couldn’t have asked for a better start.
Building a New Life and Finding Balance
Adjusting was… interesting. I arrived in winter, so, of course, the cold slapped me in the face, and the days being pitch black by 5 pm was very new to me.
I struggled (shoutout to my low iron levels), but I started crafting new routines to help me feel at home. I’m a tea girl now, which is comforting.
I wouldn’t say I’ve fully “adapted” to British culture—I like bringing my full self wherever I go. But I’ve learned to appreciate the British humor, and that feels like a small victory.
Staying grounded meant staying connected: I’d speak to my friends every other day, eat food that reminded me of home, talk to my family, and just find little things that made me feel rooted. It took time, but I’ve found a sweet balance here.
Challenges and Resilience
Academically, I faced challenges that made me grow. Working in teams with people from all over the world sounds great until you realize just how different everyone’s approaches are.
One project really tested me; a teammate and I ended up carrying the entire assignment while others… let’s say, took a more “laid-back” approach.
It was frustrating, but it taught me a hard truth: sometimes, to get the results you want, you have to make do with the cards you’re dealt, even when they’re not fair.
It’s life, and it’s definitely adulthood in a nutshell. I found resilience through these moments and came out better for it.
Discovering My Strengths and Evolving
Looking back, this journey has been all about growing, evolving, and learning to trust myself.
I’ve developed a belief in myself that can’t be taken away. Before I left Nigeria, I was set on finding a course with a placement year, so I could work as a marketer in the UK and be retained as a full-time employee. I visualized it, worked towards it, and it happened.
Since moving here, I’ve also checked off some big accomplishments: I won the Pinterest UK Creator Fund, attended Meta-hosted events, and collaborated with brands like Motorola, LUSH Cosmetics, Rimmel London, Hot Diamonds, and many more.
Younger me would be in disbelief (but also very smug, I think). She would never have imagined that a girl with a microbiology degree could end up here.
I bet on myself, and even when I was scared, I came out on top. All the women and girls inside me—the ones I’ve been and will be—would be proud. I am proud.
Gratitude and Celebration
So here I am, Funke Olotu, with a Master of Arts in Media and Communications from Bournemouth University. I took the leap, found my way, stumbled, got back up, and somehow, conquered it all.
Congratulations to me—I came, I saw, I played, cried a little, and conquered. Here’s to whatever comes next!
Until Next Time,
Funke
