Aramide Okunboh, Correspondent, LASU Conscience
Ameenat Hamzat is not just a student leader; she’s a force of purpose, resilience, and intentional growth. A native of Ibadan and a Mass Communication student at Lagos State University, Ameenat currently serves as the President of JCI LASU. Her journey from a passionate public speaker to a visionary leader has been marked by sacrifice, self-awareness, and a deep commitment to service.
In this candid interview, she shares her story, her struggles, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
“I’m a true daughter of Ibadan — Orita Merin to be precise. I grew up in a loving family of five and had most of my education in Ibadan. I hold a National Diploma from The Polytechnic Ibadan, and although I could have gone on to do my HND, I chose to pursue further knowledge outside my comfort zone. That decision led me to LASU, where I now study Mass Communication. It’s been an amazing journey so far.”
What inspired you to join JCI LASU?
“I’ve been a JCI member since my days at the Polytechnic Ibadan. The organization helped me grow as a newly-admitted student and introduced me to personal development. So when I got to LASU, it only made sense to continue my membership. JCI has always been a space where I could learn, serve, and evolve.”
When you became President, what was your “why,” and what vision did you want to achieve?
“Becoming President wasn’t something I planned — it just happened. All I wanted was to contribute meaningfully to the organization. But when the opportunity came, I embraced it with a vision rooted in the acronym LEAP: Leading with Excellence and Progress.
I wanted to redefine leadership in JCIN-LASU, increase our visibility on campus, and uphold the legacy of past presidents. I’m proud to say we achieved that. We executed over 10 projects, collaborated with other organizations, and made a real impact, especially with our public speaking advocacy project in six schools across Ojo community.”
How do you balance your role in JCI with academics and other commitments?
“Balance is a myth. What truly matters is priority. I’ve learned to prioritize what needs attention at any given time. When academics call, I show up fully. When JCIN needs me, I delegate or step in as needed. I’ve made peace with stress and pressure, they’re my companions. I just do what needs to be done, when it needs to be done.”
You’ve done public speaking at various events. How do you prepare mentally and emotionally?
“Preparation is everything; from writing my speech to rehearsing and affirming myself. I get pressured because I stand for excellence, but I’ve learned to manage it. I stay calm by watching movies, listening to myself speak, and dressing well. What I wear affects my emotions — when I look good, I feel good, and that boosts my confidence.”
How do you deal with self-doubt, criticism, or burnout?
“I lean on affirmations and my support system. I talk to people who reassure me and help me see what I sometimes can’t see in myself. Their encouragement is powerful. Prayer also plays a big role, when I feel off, I speak to God, and it works magic.
For burnout, I take breaks, write, watch movies, or just keep doing things I love.”
What has been your most challenging moment so far?
“My 300 level was tough. I lost jobs, people, and opportunities. It felt like everything was falling apart. I can’t pinpoint one moment, the entire year was a struggle. But I kept going.”
And your proudest moment?”
“Hosting the public speaking project. We went to schools in the Ojo community, taught public speaking, and organized a competition. Seeing those students reminded me of my younger self.
That project touched my heart deeply.”
What advice would you give to students who want to take up leadership roles on campus?
“First, understand what leadership truly means. It’s expensive in time, money, and emotional energy. You’ll raise funds, make sacrifices, and sometimes cry alone. You’ll lose friends and face expectations you weren’t prepared for. So be sure of your ‘why’ and be ready to pay the price. Leadership is not just a title — it’s a commitment.”
Finally, what does it mean to be Ameenat Hamzat?
“Being Ameenat Hamzat means being excellent and purpose-driven. I believe in impact, I often say I am impact in human form. I love serving humanity and using my voice, skills, and influence to contribute to society.
It means being resilient, compassionate, and intentional about growth, service, and excellence.”
In a world where leadership is often misunderstood, Ameenat Hamzat stands out as a beacon of clarity, courage, and commitment. Her story is a reminder that impact begins with intention, and that true leadership is built on service, not status. From hosting advocacy projects to navigating personal setbacks, she continues to LEAP forward — Leading with Excellence and Progress and inspiring others to do the same.
Abati Favour, Editor, LASU Conscience
Idowu Araoluwa, Editor, LASU Conscience
