In the vastness of human experiences, stories of self-discovery become beacons of hope and inspiration.
Sandra Mbamah Sore, an author from the Upper East Region, has woven such a tale through her creative non-fiction piece, “Free My Soul.” Recently awarded second place in the senior category of the AKAYA Empowered Inkwell writing contest, Ms. Sore’s work delves into the depths of her personal journey, exploring the themes of identity and self-acceptance.
The contest’s theme, “Identity and Self-Discovery,” struck a chord within Ms. Sore, igniting a desire to reflect on her life’s path thus far. “I believe everyone has a unique story when it comes to our identity,” she explained, “but a lot of people sometimes do not pay keen attention to how they discover themselves.” It was this realization that sparked the inspiration for “Free My Soul,” a work that would lay bare the author’s struggles and triumphs in embracing her true self.
As the only female among five children, Ms. Sore’s experiences were shaped by the unconscious adoption of traits and behaviors often associated with masculinity. “I dressed like a boy, did a lot of things that men do,” she recalled, acknowledging the societal labels and hateful comments that weighed heavily upon her during those formative years. Yet, through it all, she remained resolute, refusing to be limited by gender stereotypes. “I was just an assertive, active child who didn’t think I was limited or weak because I’m female,” she asserted.
Ms. Sore’s journey extended beyond the confines of gender norms, as she navigated an educational system that often funneled students into fields without considering their individual strengths or weaknesses. “I ended up in schools that I didn’t want to attend, reading courses that I didn’t really have an interest in,” she admitted.
It was through sheer resilience and hard work that Ms. Sore emerged successful, but her experiences shed light on a troubling reality – many others may be trapped in careers misaligned with their true selves, constantly seeking external motivation to function.
It was this realization that prompted Sore to share her story through “Free My Soul.” “I felt it was just right for me to share my story because who knows, it might just inspire someone out there,” she said, her words carrying the weight of a deeply personal journey and a desire to uplift others grappling with similar struggles.
Despite her natural writing ability, Sore initially doubted her skills and hesitated to share her work publicly. “I didn’t think I was good enough a writer to be out there because writing is not something that I have learned to do,” she confessed. However, the idea for “Free My Soul” proved too compelling to ignore. “I just thought, how wrong can I be talking about myself? So, that was where my inspiration came from,” Sore explained, embracing the power of authenticity.
For Ms. Sore, the writing process is a dynamic and fluid experience, ebbing and flowing with the tides of inspiration. “It’s not all the time that I set my mind to write that I’m able to write,” she acknowledged. “Sometimes, you try to write, but you just can’t move forward.” In such moments, Ms. Sore takes a step back and explores other pursuits until the creative flow returns. “There are times where I don’t plan to, but it just comes, and then you pick your pen, you decide to write, and then the flow comes,” she described, capturing the essence of a writer’s journey.
Ms. Sore’s approach to writing transcends mere wordsmithing; it is a craft that demands depth and understanding. “I have always said that writing goes beyond just putting a few words together and then thinking that people can read to understand,” she emphasized, underscoring the importance of crafting narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level.
Through “Free My Soul,” Ms. Sore has opened a window into her world, inviting others to bear witness to her journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Her story serves as a testament to the power of embracing one’s authentic self, a clarion call for those who may be struggling to find their true paths in life. With her win at the AKAYA Empowered Inkwell writing contest, Ms. Sore has taken a significant step towards sharing her voice and encouraging others to do the same.
In a world that often seeks to confine individuals within rigid societal constructs, Sandra Mbamah Sore’s creative non-fiction piece stands as a reminder that authenticity and self-acceptance are essential elements of a fulfilling life journey. Through her words, she invites readers to embark on a voyage of self-discovery, to shed the shackles of external expectations, and to boldly embrace the unique tapestry of their identities. “Free My Soul” is not merely a title; it is a rallying cry, a beacon of hope for those seeking to liberate their authentic selves and live their truths unapologetically.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga
