Sometimes the most radical act of shaping the future is knowing yourself deeply enough to build something authentic. We are delighted to award third place to Taiwo Rachael for a letter-to-future-self that demonstrates exceptional emotional intelligence and self-awareness, qualities that are just as essential to changemaking as grand visions and detailed plans. Rachael’s creative format immediately sets her apart. By writing to her future self, she reveals a young woman who is thoughtfully constructing her identity, learning boundaries, building financial literacy, and cultivating discipline, not because anyone is forcing her to, but because she understands that lasting change starts from within
Dear Future Me,
Seeing you become a renowned lawyer is so cool and nice because if you think back to when you were younger, you were so confused, you were not even sure what you wanted for yourself, you would visit Google or an artificial intelligence portal every night to look for options because of how confused you were.
And i can say being a renowned lawyer and having a mind of your own is one great achievement, which shows that all the hyping yourself up and mirror prep talk you did when you were teenager really helped you, and I am also happy that you have learnt the value of loosing people that drain you since you were a teenager because these small small no’s count for something on your mental health.
I also want to say kudos to your mom and sisters for training you on how to track your money because I’m sure that will be helping you greatly, from your hungry but lazy cousin and uncles, and how to start showing up for your self even when nobody seems to notice because being an adult now, nobody is going to clap for you when you do the right thing, no teachers, no parents forcing you because you have built your discipline since you were younger so you will be unstoppable now. l love the way you still journal your thoughts down, even if it is messy, it is an admirable habit.
Something in me always knew that you would make it in this field because I admire the way you speak for yourself without saying sorry for it, the way you feel your emotions instead of saying “I am fine “. And I hope you still read books that make you feel alive and movies, too. I hope you have understood better the word of God and you are growing well in it. Maybe by now you have met your Prince Charming, someone who treats you the way you ought to be treated and respects your mind, values, and purpose.
As you move forward, I encourage you to be a source of support and empowerment for the woman around you. Use your voice to amplify theirs, and your actions to inspire theirs. Having in mind that together we can create a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and strength. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and don’t hesitate to offer it when others need it. We are stronger together, and our collective voices can bring about real change. Especially to the young girls who think their periods are something to be ashamed of, or who can’t afford proper menstrual care. Remind them that they are beautiful and deserving of dignity. Be that woman who donates period pads to schools, talks openly about menstrual health, and teaches the girl child that adulthood is not a burden, it is power.
Empower women around you, those struggling with poverty or self-doubt. Use your story to tell them that where they come from doesn’t define where they can go.
No matter where you are or what you have faced, remember, I love you for showing up, I love you for growing. I believe in you then, now, and always.
With hope and faith
Your younger self.