Day 29 : My JCI Story (Series 1)

By Joyce Mamman Lawrence

The story of my life wouldn’t be complete without mentioning JCI—it was the buttercream icing on my already fluffy cake. JCI is a voluntary, member-based organization with a presence in over 200 countries, including most states in Nigeria. With a history spanning more than a century globally and over 60 years in Nigeria, JCI has made a lasting impact in various communities, fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and active citizenship.

Our active membership, open to individuals aged 18 to 40, offers a vibrant platform for young leaders to develop their skills, engage in meaningful and impactful projects, and make a tangible difference both locally and internationally. It’s a space where potential is recognized, nurtured, and allowed to flourish.

I was introduced to JCI in 2013, and from the moment I joined, I was immediately “bitten by the JCI bug,” as JCI Senator Peter Buba, the great orator and leader, would say. My initial steps within the organization were swift and purposeful, rapidly refining my sense of purpose and honing my leadership skills.

JCI offered me an invaluable opportunity to learn and provided a unique platform to unleash my hidden potential. Through its programs, I was able to better understand my uniqueness and the peculiarities that set me apart. This transformation, however, didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of dedication and hard work, as I had to undergo a series of JCI signature courses, as well as other non-JCI courses, almost all at little to no cost. These educational opportunities were instrumental in shaping the leader I have become.

As I grew within the organization, I was entrusted with several responsibilities that served as a litmus test, challenging me to fine-tune everything I had learned. One rule that sets JCI apart for me is the “one year to lead” policy. This policy ensures that leaders approach their roles with seriousness and persistence because they know that whether they excel or falter, their achievements or failures will remain part of their legacy. This principle not only fosters accountability but also drives members to give their best, knowing they have a limited time to make a lasting impact.

JCI provided a level playing field for me as a woman, free from discrimination or boundaries, allowing me to soar as far as my imagination could take me. In an environment where gender equality is upheld, I was empowered to break barriers and achieve what I once thought was beyond my reach.

To those who often ask, “How much are they even paying you?”—here’s the answer: JCI has paid me with experiences, achievements, and skills that money cannot buy. The wealth of knowledge, the friendships, the networks, and the personal growth I’ve gained far exceed any monetary compensation. The value of what I’ve gained through JCI is immeasurable, and it has shaped me into the person I am today.

September11

gratitude

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