Unlocking Possibilities: The Power of Mentorship at Open Dreams | Faustina Nforngwa

A key is peculiar to its lock, but I found a key, one that can open many doors. Open Dreams has been my fishing net, enabling me to pursue growth and opportunities alike. Facilitating my first session at ODSA'25 in Bamenda was a full-circle moment; one that reminded me of my journey within the Open Dreams community. 

 After obtaining my GCE Ordinary Level in 2022, I was recommended to join Open Dreams by an Incredible lady, Chia Perpetua, who was an Open Dreams Scholar studying at the University of Edinburgh. I joined the online mentorship WhatsApp group without knowing anything about the organization. My first months were filled with confusion, and the more I tried to follow up on the messages, the more perplexed I became. An in-person gathering organized by the then North West Regional Program coordinator, Afungfege Evita, helped in clarifying some of my doubts. 

 Attending the Aviva Day in 2022 filled me with a sense of belonging in the organization and sparked my determination to spare no opportunity. Under Perpetua's guidance and mentorship, I secured spots at the 2023 Yale Young African Scholar's program, the 2023 Open Dreams Summer Academy in Bamenda, and the UREGA Foundation. At the summer academy, I was a sponge, absorbing the lessons that came along and making connections with amazing individuals. Through Open Dreams, I had the opportunity to engage in my first community-based organization, Community Vision Group (CVG).  These opportunities became my gateway to knowledge, honing interpersonal skills, and a strong network of mentors and peers. 

My journey was my inspiration while I was planning for the Open Dreams Summer Academy (ODSA). Having experienced firsthand the transformative impact of ODSA, I was intentional in my involvement throughout the program. Serving as a facilitator was an invaluable opportunity to share my experiences and knowledge with young people whose ambitions were similar to mine two years back; to secure a scholarship and become a global citizen. It was an opportunity to learn from other facilitators and mentors, while building meaningful connections. 

I found a key that has opened doors I only dreamed of, some that I never imagined I would walk past. If you have found this key too, use it fully and help others find it too. 

Faustina Nforngwa'23 | Swanikar Scholar - The University of Chicago'29| Open Dreams