Shanty town is a bustling city nestled on the outskirts of Niger river bridge, a place where dreams seem shattered and poverty trailed behind people as shadow. The narrow streets were lined with makeshift houses, constructed from discarded materials and remnants salvaged from nearby construction sites.
Maya lived here. She is a humble young girl with dreams to become the reference point for good deeds for Shanty town. With wide, curious eyes and an infectious smile, she radiated warmth even in the face of adversity. Maya lived with her family in one of the tiny shacks that populated Shanty town, struggling to make ends meet.
Despite their humble circumstances, Maya's parents inculcated into their wards a. Sense of determination and a thirst for knowledge. Shanty town lacked a good educational facility where dreams of children like that of Maya could be nurtured into reality but she remained undeterred, she refused to let the circumstances around her community and family limit her future.
One afternoon, Maya was walking down the Orchard with her bosom friend, Ameria. The orchard was located in the most developed part of Shanty town which was reserved for government officials to lodge whenever an assignment brings them to the region. Maya stumbled upon an old, worn-out book wedges among trash bins outside the posh residential area.
What do you want to do with that half rotten book?
Amelia asked uninterestedly
Nothing, really. Just want to see if there is anything of relevance.
She has read fiction about how treasures can be found in the chest of old diaries.
I'd like to return to the market to help mama pack all her wares.
Amelia always wants to be around her friend but when duty calls she can't help but to obey. The two friends parted. Maya held firmly in her hands the tattered book as they bid each other bye.
Curiosity sparked within Maya, and she decided to venture into uncharted territory- the library. Maya's excitement was palpable as she turned the pages, absorbing the knowledge and stories within. Each visit, she would hide away in a corner, quietly immersing herself in the world of literature. The library became her sanctuary, a place where her dreams took flight.
Inspired by the tales she discovered, Maya began writing her own stories. She wove words together, painting vivid scenes of hope and resilience. Her stories spoke of a brighter future, where Shanty Town would no longer be a place of shattered dreams marred by poverty but a place filled with hope, compassion, and opportunity.
Word of Maya's talent soon spread throughout the community. Her stories became a source of inspiration for the residents of Shanty Town, fueling their hopes despite their dismal circumstances.
With newfound purpose, Maya approached the local government, armed with her stories and a powerful vision for the future. She shared her dreams of transforming Shanty Town into a sustainable community, a haven where everyone could prosper, and children like her could dream without limitations.
To her surprise, the government officials frowned at her writing and all the good she dreamed about Shanty Town. The leader of the visiting team of government officials is of Shanty Town descent but he was also against this development.
Why are these folks against any good thing coming out from our town?
Amelia was troubled at the attitude of the politicians. She wanted know why they never supported any good move to move Shanty Town forward.
I would rather write the central publishing board, asking you be assisted to publish my book.
While Maya was still thinking of the way out of her delimma, Amelia had something in mind. She said to Maya:
You shouldn't be doing that, instead write a petition against the activities of the government officials citing all their corrupt practices.
That seem like a better advice after all. Would Maya take to it or keep quiet and act like the government officials are just like everyday people? Let's watch as it is unfolded in the next chapter.
