My name is Chisom Ezeh, and I arrived in Canada in January 2021, brimming with hope and excitement. I had the dream of helping authors navigate the book publishing process and enjoy the birth of their books. With six years of industry experience, I was very confident that my skills and knowledge would enable me to make a significant impact.
Little did I know, however, that the journey ahead would be anything but smooth. I started promoting my services and skills but encountered barriers that shook my self-esteem and tested my resilience.
The first few potential clients I connected with didn’t want to work with me because they said I was a woman of colour and didn’t ‘look’ like I had the experience. Rejections became commonplace, and I questioned the very skills and expertise that had brought me this far.
In those dark moments, it was the unwavering support of my community that kept me going. My family, friends, and mentors rallied around me, reminding me of who I am and encouraging me to turn those rejections into opportunities for growth. I took their advice to heart, investing my time in honing my skills and seeking further training to enhance my knowledge of the industry.
I also continued to share my passion for helping authors. Finally, my persistence paid off when an author on Upwork decided to take a chance on me. After several no-shows, I got a yes! That single opportunity opened the floodgates, and I am proud to say that I have since helped over 100 authors bring their books to life. In 2023, I founded my business, The Publishing Pad, where we continue to support authors on their publishing journey.
As I reflect on my experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the authors who trusted me with their precious book, my community who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself, and the obstacles I faced that ultimately strengthened my resilience.
My story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. To anyone facing similar challenges, I offer this piece of advice: do not let the perceptions of others define your worth or deter you from pursuing your dreams. It is okay to falter, to feel the weight of rejection, but remember that within you lies the strength to rise again and continue on your path to greatness. Embrace your journey, lean on your support system, and never lose sight of the extraordinary impact you are destined to make.
Chisom tells her story from New Brunswick, Canada.
