Being invited to join YouthMappers on a sunny Friday afternoon, I honestly did not know what to expect and simply accepted the offer because I really had nothing to do. I felt it was one of those situations where you just join a group because you are told to, then never show up again for the next meeting. However, as we were being introduced and made acquainted with what YouthMappers really is and its main aim, I knew I really wanted to be part of it and stay for good. I was further intrigued and impressed as we were introduced to activities such as the Let Girls Map competition, in which I expressed a clear-cut desire to play a role.
As a result, I decided to participate in the Let Girls Map competition. I was initially appalled because the "what ifs" kept on bouncing inside my head, but my goal was to break the notion of men always taking the lead, even when it came to competitions mounted for ladies. The challenge was not easy because it required a lot of selflessness, time, and discipline, but I took it upon myself to win the competition to showcase women’s power and prove that we are not limited by societal ideas. Although there were challenges, I had a wonderful experience and made an impact. Some of the experience lay in learning the skill of proper digitization. Since then, program activities like using AI to map have been organized to enhance the knowledge base of our chapter members.
After being awarded as the winner of the Let Girls Map competition, I was able to draw more people to the association and assist them in learning how to digitize properly for the benefit and development of our society and nations as a whole. I took a step forward to help women realize that ability comes from belief, and winning requires determination. Never let anyone underestimate the potential within you. As a woman, you are strong, capable, and valuable in your own way. Life smiles on those who are optimistic, and opportunities embrace those who dare to take risks. How would you win if you didn't take the step? How can you make a difference as a woman if you don't add value to yourself? Anything is possible as long as the sun shines. Let your limit be beyond the skies. Embrace your imperfections and correct all your wrongs while the day is still young. But know that life is an echo: what you send out comes back to you. Through the effort and input I made, I gained a lot of skills and knowledge in web-based open geospatial technologies and the systematic processes involved in research. Most importantly, it helped me build my confidence. You can also achieve such a feat if you just try.
As women, we have the power to transform the world by contributing to open-source geospatial data and mapping affected areas around the world. We map not only to add our inputs but also to develop new skills and gain the chance to learn new things. Through this, we can make our dreams a reality and make the world a better place for us to live. It’s all about you finding your purpose, discovering your interest, knowing your source of motivation, and being determined. You can start by doing something new, like mapping, which will help uncover your potential and spark your curiosity. Dreams are visualized when we cultivate self-discipline and stay committed to the process. Don't stop until you have a place at the table of men, and with gladness, you can smile at your success. Just believe in yourself and always say to yourself, “I can.” Remember, you are beautiful, smart, and different in your own way. Inspire yourself; you can–my dear lady– believe in yourself. Believe!!!
Bridget Darko is a second-year student at the University of Cape Coast, pursuing a BSc in Geography and Regional Planning. She enjoys volunteering, loves maps, and is passionate about increasing women's participation in STEM.
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