You know how they say that no one is your friend in the workplace? Believe, but when you meet someone with whom you resonate, hold onto them. They might save your life one day or end up on your wedding train.
I relocated from Abuja to Lagos to chase my dreams and start my life as an independent woman, and you can imagine how challenging it has been adjusting to a new city, new job, and new home alone without family or friends. Trust me, it’s no picnic, but God always comes through.
On my first day at HH, my buddy wasn’t around because she was ill, and I felt my day was going to be rough, but Moyo, in her wisdom, appointed a colleague to help me get through the day. That person was Chidinma Nwaukwa. Chidinma gave me a tour of Heirs Place and introduced me to some HH people. Every other day, she would check on me, but of course, I was being careful and trying not to be too friendly because I was new and didn’t want to make the wrong moves.
One afternoon we were walking upstairs after lunch, and she asked me if my friends would usually play this Burna Boy song Titled ‘Vanilla’ for me because there’s a lyric with my name in it and more. I laughed and said, how did you know? She said, don’t worry, I see it, and we laughed. You can listen to the song for context. At that moment, I knew this babe was a cool person, and we’d get along fine.
Fast forward 7 months in HH, and she has become not only my office bestie but also a sister to me because she’s helped me settle into Lagos and rediscover myself, from our mutual love for Beyonce to praying for each other and attempting to live a soft life whilst being corporate baddies. She’s always encouraged me to do good and put myself first and is always there for me in difficult times. We spend so much time together outside of work! And my day isn’t the same when she is out of the office because who will I run upstairs to disturb?
I appreciate her because she makes the Eko Experience bearable, and there is nothing I would not do for her. And if you’re reading this, believe me! True friendships that will last a lifetime can be found at work but explore with caution.
