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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
In an atmosphere filled with gratitude and reflection, a new inspirational title, Echoes of Strength, was formally unveiled to an appreciative audience as the author, Ifeoluwalose Ogunlana, shared the deeply personal journey that birthed the book.
Opening the event with a heartfelt thanksgiving, the author attributed the success of the day to divine grace, saying, “Praise be to God Almighty for this day that has come to pass. All glory, honour and adoration be unto the Lord.”
Addressing guests who gathered for the launch, she extended warm appreciation, noting that their presence was neither taken lightly nor for granted. “Thank you for taking time out to come around. God bless you,” she said.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the work, the author explained that Echoes of Strength was conceived from a desire to help readers understand, embrace and reclaim their true identity. She described the book as a mirror to her own experiences—of confronting fear, celebrating small victories and choosing the name and identity she wants the world to recognise.
According to her, the title was influenced by a personal mantra that shaped her resilience over time. “Never let the voice of the mockers be louder than the voice of the encouragers,” she said. “These words kept ringing around me, and from them Echoes of Strength emerged.”
“The author noted that every page of the book invites readers into a journey of purpose, healing and self-realisation. She emphasised that strength is not sudden but grows quietly “with trust and a gentle whisper.”
She said further, “What really inspired my writing is my physical journey, and the book is basically about being willing to accept yourself more than the way people accept you. I always say this to myself and I also say it to others: ‘Never let the voice of the mockers be louder than the encouragers.’
“With this book, I am trying to pour out my mind, my emotions, my experiences with bullying and how I overcame my struggles with my facial appearance. I want people to understand that it is not only about me but about others as well.
“I want people to accept themselves for who they are, just as I have learned to accept myself.
“There were difficulties while writing this book, but through the help of God I was able to overcome the challenges. There were many times I didn’t want to look in the mirror, but now I calm myself down and ask God for help —and He continues to help me.
“The title of my book, Echoes of Strength, comes mainly from my own experiences. What I intend to achieve is that people will not just read this book because of me but that it will make a real impact in their lives.
“To people who are aspiring to write or who have lost hope because of their physical appearance or other struggles, do not lose hope. There is a purpose for your life, and you should move closer to God so He can guide you.
“My target audience for this book is everyone, not only those facing challenges, because in life there is no way challenges will not come,” she noted
She called on readers to approach the book with an open heart, creating an atmosphere of love, acceptance, boldness and faith as they engage with its message.
The launch ended on a note of gratitude, as the author once again thanked attendees for their unwavering support.
Photo caption: The author, Ifeoluwalose. Ogunlana, in the middle.
