Knowledge is power they say, but talent can make you dine with kings. This is the case of Shedrack Aliyuda Istifanus, a student of Modibbo Adama University, in the Department of Industrial Design who was accepted for the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), to gain industrial work experience in the Marketing and Communications Department. Shedrack hand-painted a portrait of AUN President, Prof. DeWayne Frazier, a gift in recognition of his selflessness.
Mr. Shedrack narrated how he was inspired to paint the President’s portrait using a blue pen and cardboard paper to create an impressive painting. His work has been described by many art enthusiasts as a masterpiece.
“I was inspired by the President’s selfless services and gifts to many Yola communities. I see he really loves people, especially children. So, I thought drawing him may put a smile on his face.
“I was motivated to paint the President after visiting his office and seeing the collection of artifacts he has from different continents, and when I shared my thought and intention with my supervisor, he encouraged me to do it. So, I went to work, and was able to complete it in a week!”
When asked, how he felt to have seen the President’s reaction, he said “I felt satisfied to have made him smile. The whole experience also lit up something in me to create more arts works.”
President Frazier who took to his Facebook page to express his gratitude, wrote, “Wow, I am speechless and do not know what to say but I am humbled by this gesture.”
Shedrack is thankful to Mr. Noel Sashi, his supervisor and the Executive Director, of Marketing and Communications, Mr. Dan Okereke for his fatherly guidance and making his dream come true, as he had always wished to meet the AUN President personally.
Reported by John Abah