Let's Talk: Loss...& Soft Skills

Last week, while participating in the 3rd National SBC Summit, a chance encounter sent a wave of emotions crashing over me. Standing at the booth representing PSI Ethiopia, I saw a familiar face – Mr Adane wako, my favourite university lecturer at Hawassa University from almost ten years ago. The reunion at this gathering, which brought together over 400 individuals dedicated to the SBC sector, was a flood of bittersweet memories.

My second year at university was difficult, shrouded in grief following the loss of my father. Much of that period remains a blur. As a coping mechanism, I tend to forget painful experiences. Yet, after we greeted each other, Mr. Adane's words somehow activated my selective memory: "What I remember most about you is your strength during that difficult time. You've made your father proud." Hearing a respected teacher acknowledge my struggle, something I didn't even fully recognize at the time, brought tears to my eyes. It was a beautiful reminder that even when we feel lost in hardship, our efforts are noticed.

This encounter also reminded me of the confusion that followed my graduation. Like most university graduates, I stepped off the stage with a psychology degree and a giant question mark hanging over my head: "What's next?" Becoming a counsellor was my dream, but the path to that dream seemed filled with mystery. Sure, I had a passion for psychology, but did I possess the necessary "soft skills" – writing a compelling CV, communicating effectively, acing an interview, even knowing where and how to apply – to navigate the professional world? These crucial skills felt like a foreign language.

Ironically, the answer wasn't found in a textbook but through a seemingly unrelated avenue – social media. Back then, I regularly posted short stories on Facebook, both in Amharic and English (a skill honed from helping my mom prepare exams at her school). While I didn't see them as anything profound, these posts caught the eye of someone working at Kana TV. They needed a script translator, and my bilingual typing skills landed me my very first job!

Yes, you read that right. My "unimportant" Facebook posts became a stepping stone for my career. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: sometimes, the tools we use for leisure can hold unforeseen opportunities. Eight years have passed since then, and in that time, I've grown so much, both professionally and personally. There are countless stories to tell about it – experiences that shaped who I am today (but that's a story for another day!).

That initial leap of faith, thanks to my social media activity, opened doors I never imagined. It also made me realize how effective online platforms can be. While negativity can run strong on social media, it's ultimately fueled by the content we choose to engage with. If we all made a conscious effort to only engage with positive content, wouldn't negativity eventually fade away?

So, yes, back to the importance of soft skills. Social media played a crucial role in kickstarting my career, but it isn't the only avenue for fresh graduates. There's a whole world of opportunities waiting to be explored! Platforms like Dereja Jobs , an initiative I was incredibly fortunate to be a part of a few years ago, offer invaluable resources specifically designed to help recent graduates bridge the gap between academics and the professional world.

Dereja.com provides workshops and training programs that hone those crucial "soft skills" employers seek. We're talking about the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Networking skills that allow you to build meaningful connections and navigate professional settings with confidence. And let's not forget interview techniques – the art of presenting yourself and your qualifications in a way that makes a lasting impression.

Investing in these soft skills means you're not just preparing for your first job; you're also equipping yourself to navigate the twists and turns of your career with confidence. Take it from me, the path you take might not always be linear, and that's perfectly okay. Embrace the unexpected turns, like my social media "discovery," and never stop feeding your curiosity. Personal growth is a lifelong adventure, after all!

The encounter with Mr. Adane was a reminder of my own journey. While it brought back the loss of my father, a painful memory I would rather not dwell on, it also reignited my passion for the path less travelled. Now, with a toolbox full of honed soft skills and a heart full of purpose, I'm ready to accept the unknown opportunities that lie ahead. And who knows what exciting opportunities await around the next corner?