When we talk about role models, many people picture rich celebrities, musicians, or athletes. But role models are not always people we see on TV or meet in real life. Sometimes, they are people we’ve never met but whose work speaks to us, through books, music, or even their professions.
Think about Gani Fawehinmi, for example. Most Nigerians never met him, yet his work as a lawyer and human rights activist continues to inspire many today. He stood for justice, fought for the oppressed, and left a legacy that law students and practicing lawyers still look up to. Even without meeting him, his story teaches us about courage, fairness, and standing up for what is right.
Or take Dele Giwa, whose fearless reporting uncovered hidden truths during difficult times. Young journalists today see his dedication and bravery as something to follow. They learn that journalism is not just about writing news, it’s about being a voice for the voiceless and holding society accountable.
Sometimes, role models are authors whose books challenge our thinking. Writers like Chinua Achebe have shaped the way many Nigerians understand culture and identity. His works continue to guide young writers who dream of telling their own stories and preserving their heritage.
But wait! did I just mention famous people too? That brings us back to the question: Who really makes a role model?
Role models are not always people in the spotlight. Sometimes, they are the quiet, everyday people around us who don’t make headlines but still teach us important lessons. It could be your mother, who wakes up before dawn to cook and clean, or your uncle, who never went to school but runs a successful shop and helps others. These are the people whose actions speak louder than words.
And sometimes, role models teach us what not to do. We’ve all seen people make bad decisions, drinking too much, skipping school, or lying to get ahead. Watching their mistakes can remind us to stay focused and avoid going down the wrong path.
The truth is, a good role model doesn’t have to be perfect or rich. They just need to show qualities worth copying things like kindness, hard work, honesty, and patience. Whether it’s law, journalism, teaching, or farming, role models inspire us to aim higher and dream bigger.
But here’s something important, admiring someone isn’t enough. Role models remind us that inspiration must lead to action. It’s not just about looking up to others; it’s about asking ourselves, What am I doing with this inspiration?
So, before you admire someone, ask yourself: Do they inspire me to be better? And while you’re at it, ask: Am I living in a way that others would be proud to copy?
And just like those we look up to, we should also live in ways that inspire others. Sometimes, without even realizing it, you might already be someone’s role model, maybe to a younger sibling, a classmate, or a friend.
Because at the end of the day, being a role model isn’t about how many followers you have online. It’s about how many lives you touch, whether big or small. And whether famous or ordinary, role models leave footprints for others to follow.