By: Oluwalaanumi Blessings
Have you heard about TVO tribesmen community?
Well,the tribesmen community is a network where we as creatives, writers, readers, authors and artists share our stories and experiences. Here we run a weekly writing contest which is aimed
at building our tribesmen not just to become consistent writers, but to become exceptional writers.The winner of this contest is crowned the tribesman of the week.
Here is an interview with Oluwakemi Oluranti, an amazing writer who emerged as the tribesman of the week. She is a student of Forest Production and Produce in the prestigious University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
I’m sure you don’t want to miss this interesting session with Oluranti, do you?
Then, let’s set the ball rolling..
Hello miss.
My name is Blessings. I am a tribe advocate at thevictoriao.com. Can we meet this awesome lady please?
I’m Oluwakemi Oluranti, a student of the University of Ibadan and also a writer with the pen name Arete.
Why do you go by the pseudonym ARETE ?
I needed a word that is all encompassing, a full description of who I am and who I’m working toward to be. Luckily I took a course in philosophy, while reading through the text one day I saw the Greek word. I got attracted to it, looked for the meaning, and I fell in love with what I saw. It happened to be the word that I have been looking for, then I adopted it.
What’s the meaning and how does it describe your personality?
Arête, means Virtue and Excellence.
I work towards excellence in all I do and I’m a moralist. Beyond what I am now, I look forward to becoming virtuous and being a symbol of excellence.
This is really insightful and inspiring.
Thank you.
How did you feel when you were announced as the tribesman of the week?
I was very delighted.
What’s that one thing that basically influences your writing?
The willingness to impact with the little I know and the quest to see tangible positive change in our minds and our society.
Have you always been a writer?
No, I started writing in 2014, but I lost the vibe somehow. Then I started again late last year.
What aspect of writing is your major?
I am a motivational writer. But I focus on poems lately to overcome my weaknesses and balance my writing.
What was the first thing you wrote and what triggered it?
Actually, then in 2014 I started with poems. Then I took a break. I bounced back with prose on my mind. What triggered the first was nature and the beauty of God. What triggered the second was anger. I was annoyed about a case my friend shared with me. It was a case of negative indulgence by a parent and I was seriously infuriated. The only way I could vent my anger was to pick up my pen and write.
What has your journey as a writer been like?
It has been very interesting so far.
Of all your works, which is your favorite?
A poem I wrote on the beauty of God.
Who are the writers you look up to or do I say who are your favorite author(s)?
Robert Kiyosaki. Olabayo Joshua Awodirepo is also a writer that I respect so much.
If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Fear will never breed anything good, don’t give in to it at any time.
How did you become a member of the tribesmen community?
I saw the link on a friend’s WhatsApp status.
How has the community influenced you as a writer?
The community as influenced me tremendously. There’s nothing as beautiful as having a family to share my works with. There always there to cheer, criticize ( when necessary) and encourage you everytime.
I’m glad you found home in the community.
Thanks for having me.
Have a beautiful life ahead.