I've spoken on this blockchain about my skill, in one way or another. I'll still talk about it when needed. This prompt requires that, so I'll be going down that lane. Having a skill is important in today's world. For some; and yes many, this has been a means of sustenance. One of the things a person would need, I presume, especially coming from my part of the world is to have a skill they're actively involved with.
A skill gives a person the privilege and opportunity to earn, independent of job and employment opportunities. People learn one skill or another, which serves them for a livelihood. More than an opportunity, it has grown into a necessity, in this part of the world at least. For people who aren't generally favoured by the system, you would have to find your way around towards survival and provision of basic needs. Fortunately, skills have been instrumental in that regard.
I've always admired people with one skill or another. I don't know how or what they feel. For me, it was this feeling of meeting someone's need, in exchange for a monetary reward. There's the fulfilment it brings to engage one's skill and be paid for it. Beyond the money, it goes down to the value and worth in solving a need/problem. That gives me the feeling, fulfilment and encouragement in what I do－in my skill as a graphic designer.
Learning graphic design came as a necessity. My life then was without any real skill to say. Out of necessity and a means to earn, I signed up for this skill which built into a passion as well. I think I've had an interest, kind of. Digital skills have been appealing to me and I marvelled at how people create these stunning designs. It was a marvel that time presented me the opportunity to turn into a reality. Something I didn't hesitate to take.
I remember coming across this flyer showcasing various digital skills to learn, in a course period of about 3 months. I knew this was it. I had to hop in. The learning session was virtual and the period took me through some stretch. Some nights were spent learning, doing classwork and then submitting. I was putting up with other duties as well which made it difficult, alongside insufficient resources. Nevertheless, I was determined to utilise this opportunity. Some months later, I was done.
It was a wholesome experience. Getting to earn from it now wasn't easy. Well, I wanted to earn from it, so I had to position myself. I did abstract designs and posted them. Or free designs to somehow gain visibility. Sometime later, I got my first design work. It felt really good. Along the line, I was privileged to create designs for brands and individuals and was paid for that. Sometimes, I imagine, what if I didn't get to learn this skill?
With skills, and digital ones like this, there's a need to improve to remain relevant in the market space. Hence, I buy and take new courses, and also learn what I can from YouTube to keep up with trends, and to grow and improve in the skill. I'll keep doing that. I must also say how this skill has connected me with some individuals I'm glad to have come across.
This is my response to the India United contest. Read here if you wish to join in.
