From tea seller to trailblazer and struggles to success: How OAC’s storytelling transformed the lives of Manasseh and Itunu

In a world where perseverance often goes unnoticed, two young Nigerians—Manasseh Favour Zidyep and Itunu Ogundele Comfort—have emerged as symbols of resilience and transformation. Their journeys, marked by hardship and determination, took a dramatic turn when OAC’s powerful storytelling shed light on their struggles. Today, they stand as beacons of hope, proving that the right support at the right time can change lives forever.  

 

Manasseh Favour Zidyep: From Tea Seller to Trailblazer

 

Manasseh Favour Zidyep, a 300-level Microbiology student at Kaduna State University (KASU), balanced academics with running a tea business to support himself. Selling tea to corps members at the NYSC orientation camp in Kaduna was his way of surviving university life.  

 

Coming from a humble background with four siblings, his family placed a strong emphasis on education despite financial difficulties. Life was tough, but Manasseh remained determined. Everything changed when OAC shared his story, touching hearts across Nigeria.  

 

The impact was life-changing—he received financial aid amounting to six million naira, lifting the weight of financial struggles off his shoulders. This overwhelming support gave him hope, stability, and the ability to dream again.  

 

“Before encountering OAC, my family and I struggled with finances. But when OAC told my story, the kindness of strangers turned my life around. I was able to afford basic needs, and my perspective on life changed completely,”Manasseh shared.  

 

His advice to young people facing similar struggles? Never give up.

 

“As Romans 8:28 reminds us, ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.’ No matter how tough things get, stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself,” he said.  

 

With his future now bright, Manasseh is focused on completing his Microbiology degree and giving back to his community, ensuring others also get the opportunities he once longed for.  

 

 

 

Itunu Ogundele Comfort: From Struggles to Success

 

Itunu Ogundele Comfort, a young entrepreneur and Marketing student at Kaduna Polytechnic, faced immense challenges after her parents separated. Raised solely by her single mother, she and her younger sister, Omotayo, had no financial support. Their struggles worsened when their mother tragically passed away, leaving them to fend for themselves.  

 

Determined to survive, Itunu started a popcorn business, selling snacks around her school and at the NYSC camp. Despite hardships, she refused to give up.  

 

Her life took an extraordinary turn when OAC brought her story to light. The overwhelming support she received changed everything—she was blessed with her first million naira, along with messages of encouragement from friends, strangers, and loyal customers.  

 

“Before OAC, life was about survival. I worked hard, but opportunities were scarce. But when my story was shared, everything changed. I received financial support, encouragement, and a fresh start. Now, I can build a better future for myself and my sister,” Itunu said.  

 

Her biggest lesson? Hard work and faith always pay off.  

 

“Never give up! Find something to do, no matter how small, and trust that God will come through. Prayers get answered,” she advised.  

 

With her newfound success, Itunu is now rebranding and expanding her popcorn business, planning to launch a delivery service and reach more locations across Kaduna. She hopes to inspire other young entrepreneurs to believe in themselves and push beyond their struggles.  

 

 

The Power of Storytelling and Community Support

 

The transformative journeys of Manasseh and Itunu highlight the power of storytelling in changing lives.Through OAC’s platform, their voices were heard, their struggles acknowledged, and their futures reshaped. Their stories prove that with resilience, faith, and the right support, dreams can become reality.  

 

As both young leaders move forward, they remain committed to giving back, inspiring others, and making a difference in their communities. Their stories remind us all that kindness, unity, and a helping hand can turn struggles into success.

 

A Unified Nigeria Through Stories

Abiodun Adedire Christopher is a young Nigerian creative passionate about shaping culture and changing the narrative through creative storytelling.

 

OAC is committed to sustainable change. He is an SDG Advocate and the Chief Founder of Creators 4 Change (C4C), an initiative that nurtures content creators who use their craft for impact and global change.

 

The maiden edition of C4C, in collaboration with the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, was held at The American Corner, Lekki, empowering young storytellers to create content that makes a difference.

 

OAC has worked and collaborated with top actors in politics and entertainment such as Davido, Nikos Living, Gov. Ademola Adeleke, Hon. Banks Omishore and a host of others. He is a seasoned speaker and have featured on highly esteemed platform such as TedX, national and international media.

 

What makes OAC’s work even more remarkable is that he hails from Southwest Nigeria but travels deep into all geopolitical zones across Nigerians to amplify these voices. He believes in one Nigeria, beyond regional or ethnic lines.

 

“I am not a philanthropist, I am a storyteller.” — OAC

His mission is clear: to document, amplify, and change lives—one story at a time

 

 

OAC is not just telling stories—he is rewriting destinies. And through his work, the world is watching, listening, and most importantly, acting. Connect with OAC on all socials; @oacthecreator