What Does It Really Take to Grow Into Your Purpose?

I see this as more than just a feature.

It’s a moment to reflect on growth, purpose, and the journey that shaped me into who I am today.

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Where It All Started

My story began from a place of passion and curiosity.

My very first brand was “Shot by Richystixs.”

At that stage, I was simply exploring creativity. Learning how to tell stories through visuals. Trying things out without fully knowing where it would lead.

Over time, that passion evolved into something more refined:

“Richie’s Portrait.”

That phase helped me:

• Build consistency
• Discover my identity
• Connect more deeply with people through my work

But the journey didn’t stop there.

Today, everything has grown into something much bigger:

Director Richie

A brand that represents not just photography, but a full cinematic experience — across photography, film, and visual storytelling.

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Beyond the Camera — My Life in Music

Beyond visuals, music has always been a part of me.

I am a singer, and I’ve had the privilege of being part of the Loveworld Singers, the Presidential band of Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome.

That experience shaped me in ways beyond skill.

It strengthened my:

• Spiritual life
• Discipline
• Stage presence

For me, music is not just sound.

It is:

• Expression
• Ministry
• Connection

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The Platforms That Shaped Me

Along the journey, I’ve had the privilege to work with platforms and teams that stretched my capacity and expanded my vision.

I’ve worked with:

• Loveworld Music and Arts Ministry Media
• Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome’s Media Team (3A Events)
• Walure Media — recognized globally for excellence

These experiences didn’t just sharpen my craft.

They made me see bigger.

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Growing With Other Creatives

Growth is never isolated.

I’ve had the opportunity to connect with amazing creatives like:

• Snappcode
• Director Emann

Their excellence and influence played a role in shaping my journey.

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Bringing It Back Home

At some point, I brought everything I had learned back to my university.

And that’s where something historic happened.

I became the first university student photographer at Crawford University.

That moment was bigger than me.

It was the beginning of impact.

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Leadership, Setbacks, and Growth

I stepped into leadership by contesting for AMACOS Vice President.

I didn’t win.

But that loss became a turning point.

I was later appointed as:

• Studio Manager
• NASEC Executive (Social Media Manager)

That season taught me:

• Resilience
• Adaptability
• Leadership

I also became part of the pioneers of CRU Media, helping to build something that would outlive me and impact future students.

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The Moment That Tested Me

One of the most defining moments of my journey was when I ran for SRC PRO.

Truthfully, I didn’t plan to.

I was encouraged by:

• My Deputy Vice Chancellor
• Staff members
• My team

At that time, I was already serving as:

Head of Photography (Head of Lensmen)

During my manifesto speech, something happened.

I stammered heavily.

It was one of the most vulnerable moments of my life.

But despite that…

I still won — by a wide margin.

That moment taught me something I will never forget:

Purpose will always speak louder than fear.

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Becoming More Than Just Skill

Through everything, I’ve maintained:

• Strong academic performance
• A vibrant social life
• A commitment to mentoring others

Over time, I grew into a recognized figure within my university.

Not just because of what I do.

But because of who I am becoming.

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The People Behind My Story

No journey is walked alone.

I carry deep gratitude for my family.

Especially my late father:

Chief Emma Emeaba Anyanso Edede

His legacy continues to inspire me every day.

To my mum and my siblings:

Thank you for your love, support, and belief in me.

You are a huge part of my story.

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My Foundation

Above everything:

None of this would have been possible without God.

Every step.
Every opportunity.
Every lesson.

I am deeply grateful.

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What I’ve Come to Understand

“Your beginning doesn’t define you, your consistency does.”

Growth is not about where you start.

It’s about how you keep showing up.

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This Is Just the Beginning

I am still growing.
Still learning.
Still becoming everything God has called me to be.

And this?

This is only the beginning.

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— Director Richie