I have never been one to loudly celebrate my birthdays. For years, my celebrations were quiet, intimate moments—just me, a big cake, a glass of wine, or perhaps parfait. No grand parties, no elaborate surprises, just a personal moment to mark the day. This year was different.
This year, my birthday was even quieter and more reflective; yet, it held a depth I hadn’t experienced before. Instead of a typical celebration, I deliberately scheduled a coaching call with the beautiful ladies in the Personal Evolution Program. This was intentional—my way of marking a personal victory.
Pouring into these women, supporting them on their journey of identity rediscovery and self-awareness, felt like the most meaningful way to honor my new year. It was enough for me.
But something magical happened.
Despite my quiet approach, the outpouring of love, generosity, and kindness I received from my community made this birthday different. The messages, prayers, and heartfelt wishes came in abundance, and as I read each one, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
It was in those moments that I realized something profound—my life, my voice, my work mattered. The impact I had made through speaking, teaching, coaching, and mentoring had inspired and empowered others in ways I hadn’t fully acknowledged.
Birthdays are not just about personal milestones; they are about legacy, impact, and contribution. They remind us that our presence in this world means something, that our efforts—no matter how small—touch lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.
This realization made me decide something bold: next year, I will celebrate extravagantly. Not just for the sake of celebration, but as a declaration of gratitude. A gratitude for life, for purpose, for the opportunity to continue making a difference in the lives of women and girls in Africa.
So often, we minimize our achievements and downplay our contributions, but birthdays give us a moment to pause, reflect, and honor the journey. They remind us to embrace the beauty of growth and transformation, to celebrate the steps we have taken, and to acknowledge the impact we have had on others.
If there is one thing I have learned, it is this:
Never underestimate the power of your existence and the ripple effect of your work.
Your presence matters.
Your words carry weight.
Your kindness changes lives.
And that, in itself, is worth celebrating.
Maya Angelou so beautifully said, “Your legacy is every life you have touched.” And that, my dear, is always worth celebrating
As you approach your next birthday, I encourage you to do the same. Celebrate with intention! Whether quietly or extravagantly, mark the day with purpose. Reflect on your journey, embrace your growth, and recognize the beauty of the impact you have made.