Meet Funmi Issa. One of DRASA’s Youth Trainers.

Humans of DRASA: Funmi Issa Shukurah

I always say that humanity is my race and humanitarian service is my watchword.

My passion for humanitarian services started from childhood. I was raised by a widow who lost her husband at an early stage, when my siblings and I were very young. Most of the time, our mother would go off to work and come back late. One day, my younger brother and I were doing our school assignments and our mom wasn’t yet back from work, so without realizing it, we slept off and the candle we were using to do our work melted. Our books and several other things caught fire. I was woken up suddenly by the fumes, so I shouted for help and thankfully people around our house came to our rescue.

Every time I remember that event, I tell myself that I have no reason not to give back to society in whatever capacity I can. This memory fueled my passion for nursing and my urge to offer help to the needy (the sick, elderly, and the most vulnerable groups: youth and women). I’ve learned that it shouldn’t always be about money all the time, but rather lifting people up when they’re down. I’ve always believed that if you’re privileged enough to have knowledge/prosperity then you must not hoard it, but share, because we all have a duty to serve those around us, not only ourselves.

Most youth who end up as drug abusers and victims of sexual abuse are often victims of misinformation and not having someone to listen to them or confide in. Imparting knowledge, teaching, and guiding young people is what I love to do. And I’ve found that for most young people, having someone to confide in: that’s enough.

My journey to DRASA: It’s been purposeful. I received a call from my boss that an organization was conducting a school health awareness and advocacy program and needed people to work with them. He sent me a contact number and that’s how I became part of the team!

Having the opportunity to serve as a Youth Trainer is a privilege. It allows me to give back to our youth in my own little way. And being part of DRASA is exciting, I’m in a place where I can change lives.

I’m a nurse, a proud DRASA Youth Trainer, and humanity is my race.