When I joined Hive in May last year, I was just a student trying to find my way, both academically and financially. Life as a student in Nigeria isn’t exactly a walk in the park—between school fees, feeding, projects, and random unexpected expenses, it always feels like there’s something demanding money. At the time, I relied entirely on my parents, but the truth is, things weren’t always smooth. There were days when food was a struggle, and handling personal expenses felt like an uphill battle.
Anyone who has been or is still a student in Nigeria understands this reality. You might have just enough to survive, but one unexpected cost—maybe a project, an unplanned class material, or even just basic necessities—can throw everything off balance. There were times I had to stretch whatever little I had, just hoping that something would come through before things got worse.
Then came Hive.
If there’s one thing Hive has done for me, it’s given me a means of survival. I won’t pretend that I’m making millions, but the difference it has made in my life is something I can’t overlook. Through Hive, I’ve been able to earn money that has helped with my daily needs—whether it’s buying food, handling small school expenses, or even contributing to household needs. The relief that comes from knowing I don’t have to call my parents for every little thing is something I truly appreciate.
Now, I’m in my fourth year, and as expected, expenses have only gone up. The cost of things keeps rising, and sometimes, even the smallest amount feels like a big deal. I often wonder how I would have managed if I hadn’t found Hive when I did. This year has been particularly tough, and Hive has been a major support system for me. There were times I had little to nothing, and my earnings from Hive were the only thing keeping me afloat. It wasn’t just about having money—it was about having a way to sustain myself without feeling entirely helpless.
One thing I genuinely appreciate about Hive is that it doesn’t just hand you money—you have to put in the effort. Writing, engaging with others, and staying active on the platform require real commitment. But the beauty of it is that your efforts actually pay off. You see results, you see growth, and most importantly, you see the impact of your hard work on your life.
Beyond the financial aspect, Hive has taught me discipline and consistency. Knowing that my efforts can translate into something valuable has pushed me to become better at writing and engaging meaningfully with the community. I’ve learned to express my thoughts more clearly, contribute to discussions, and develop skills that will likely be useful even beyond Hive. In a way, the platform has helped me build confidence—not just in my ability to write, but in my ability to create something valuable.
When I look back at the past year, I try to imagine what life would have been like without Hive, and honestly, it’s not a picture I like. The financial struggles, the uncertainty, the constant worry about money—I don’t know how I would have coped. Hive has been more than just a blogging platform for me; it has been a financial lifeline. It has given me a sense of independence, helped me navigate tough times, and made my university journey just a little bit easier.
And for that, I am truly grateful to hive.