A Tribute to My Teacher, My Mentor and My Friend: Mr. Collins Kay

Today is World Teachers' Day.

I find myself reflecting on all the teachers who have touched my life, not just through imparting knowledge, some of them challenged me, guided me and sparked dreams in my heart that continue to shape my life today.

Among them, one person stands out - Mr. Collins Kay, who taught me Public Relations and Radio Production at University. From his first lecture, it was clear his classes were different. They weren't simply about completing coursework or memorizing theories. They were about thinking deeply, creating meaningfully, and daring to use our voices in new ways. In Radio Production, he taught us that it wasn't enough to know how to use a microphone and read a script; we needed to learn how to hone our voices, how to listen, how to tell stories, and how to reach people's hearts. In Public Relations, he taught us to look beyond press releases, and understand the power of communication in shaping communities and influencing change and that communication, when done well, can build trust and change perceptions.

He opened our minds to understand that in this attention economy, audio remains flexible, ever-present and unique in its ability to follow the listener throughout their day and emphasized that radio remains a vital part of daily life due to its universal accessibility to millions of listeners across all age groups worldwide.

What I carry most with me is the way he believed in me. He noticed potential I didn't always see in myself, and he encouraged me to explore it. That encouragement still echoes in my life today, as I continue to explore how to creatively use audio to make an impact - storytelling and beyond. His mentorship not only gave me skills, but also the courage to imagine possibilities I might never have considered on my own.

Over time, our relationship has evolved into a friendship, grounded in respect and mutual passion for storytelling and communication. Though I no longer sit in his classroom, the lessons he taught me continue to guide my journey. His words and example remind me to keep striving, to stay curious, and to believe in the power of my voice. I hope he knows that his hard work, resilience, and dedication are admired, and that I believe in him and cheer him on. Today, I honor all teachers who dedicate themselves to shaping futures - one student, one story at a time.

To Mr. Collins Kay: Thank you.

Your influence is immeasurable, your guidance life-changing, and your encouragement, a lasting gift.

On this World Teachers' Day..

I celebrate you.