Prominent dancehall artist Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, known as Patoranking, recently opened up about his humble beginnings hawking on the streets of Lagos with his father.
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Growing up in the Ebute Metta slum, Patoranking faced significant adversity but remained determined to achieve his dreams.
He shared these reflections while accepting his appointment as the UNDP Goodwill Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa.
“I hawked on the streets of Lagos with my father. Many years ago, I used to sell on this street [Kings Way road]. It used to be a very hot spot for trading. Many years after, everything that I pictured I wanted to become, the man I wanted to become is who I am now. So when I was driving down to this place it was a little bit teary moment for me because I saw myself [on this road],” Patoranking said.
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He encouraged young people to utilize their talents for the betterment of their communities and the African continent as a whole.
“That is why I have songs with artists from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and so on. I accept to be the UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs. Today I am not just an artist, I am a voice for many African youths who desire to make Africa work for themselves and their communities,” Patoranking added.
Patoranking’s journey from the streets of Lagos to becoming a globally recognized artist and advocate for youth empowerment is a testament to his perseverance and dedication.
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