Gladys Adija Markus, a Nigerian Graduate, recently took to social media to share her inspiring journey to earning her first million naira in June 2024 through her tomato business.
Gladys turned to Facebook to express her gratitude to God and reflect on the challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way.
She recounted how she faced ridicule and skepticism from various quarters when she first ventured into selling tomatoes.
Even her own parents questioned her decision to bypass traditional career paths by creating a CV, which was initially seen as an unconventional choice for a university Nigerian graduate.
Despite the discouragement and the cultural stigma attached to her business, The Nigerian Graduate persevered and her hard work has finally borne fruit.
In her words;
“…The same business people tried to shame me when I started as a youth corper in 2020.
“The same business that made allot of people to look down on me.
“The same business my parents felt was way beneath their daughter when I started. I cannot count the number of times they have tried to make me write a CV.
“The same business I was told was not meant for graduates. Ndi, how can you spend five years in the university only to end up selling tomato in the market.”
Gladys further revealed that her tomato business has now grown to the extent that she employs several workers.
“Today, I am glad to say that I will choose this business over any white-collar job.
“Today I am glad I did not listen to anyone who tried to belittle or discourage me.
“Today this same business has grown to employ staff who are paid very well,” she added.
She concluded by encouraging others to trust in their efforts and remain blessed and safe.
Kingatoz commented: “Hard work pays in all ramifications, keep on being on the right track.”
Adedoyin Oluwakemi said: “Congratulations to you. God will continue to shame anyone who takes advantage of people’s positions to treat them badly. They have forgotten there is dignity in labor.”
Chiemerie Winifred Austin remarked: “You encouraged me the most. I have started my little business despite what people say to me.”
Akende Daniel noted: “The renewed hope has renewed your account whereas it’s crippling others’ accounts. Congratulations. Indeed, another person’s food is another’s poison.”
Christine Vidal-Wachuku added: “May God open the eyes of many to understand that education and jobs are not the only paths to financial independence. Let me stop here first.”
