NightengaleBen

Goodwall - The Life Changing App is the inspiring story of Dera, a sixteen-year-old student in Senior Secondary School. Dera’s dream was to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) alongside her classmates, but her parents were unable to afford the registration fees.

As the WASSCE registration deadline approached, Dera found herself in a difficult predicament. However, unwavering support from her family and the encouraging words of Mrs. Nnaji kept her determined, despite facing ridicule from others.

One day, Dera’s elder brother, Andrew, returned from his own school and shared with Dera about Goodwall, an app that had helped countless students. Initially, it seemed too good to be true, but Dera decided to give it a try by participating in Goodwall challenges.

Goodwall-The Life Changing App by Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

As Dera patiently waited on a bench in the hallway, she suddenly heard her name.

'Benjamin Okoye,' Dera replied, recognising the voice. Benjamin was the Senior Prefect and shared the same SS3 Class A as Dera.

'The principal said you could go to class,' Benjamin said, pausing briefly. 'I know that what you're going through right now is not easy, but I assure you that it won't last.'

'I know all about your situation at home. The students in SS3 Class A put together ten thousand naira for you. Please accept it. We understand that it may not be sufficient, considering you need around one hundred and fifty thousand naira to cover your two-term fees and WASSCE expenses, but we'll hopefully think of something more to help you.'

'No, I can't take it,' Dera replied, feeling uneasy.

'Take it. It's just a little something from all of us. We all want you to write this WASSCE exam with us,' Benjamin insisted, handing her a brown paper envelope.

Dera nodded, accepting the envelope as tears welled up in her eyes. She hadn't dreamt that her classmates would offer her money to support her. Earlier that morning, she had put her bicycle up for sale. If she managed to sell it, adding the ten thousand naira from her classmates, she might be able to pay off her fees if everything went well.

'Dera, I know you might think there are conditions attached to this, but there aren't. Kindness between humans is mutual. You have helped us so much, always assisting with assignments and difficult subjects without asking for anything in return. You're well-liked in our class and deserve to be shown kindness,' Benjamin reassured her, not wanting her to feel embarrassed about the money. 'I have to run off now. Get yourself together and don't let anything weigh you down. You still have two weeks, so we believe in hope.' With those words, he patted Dera's shoulder and left for his class.

Chapter Seventeen