10 Stories on the path to prosperity

Discover, Nurture, And Share

By Constance Toh
About The Author Buy Now
Constance Toh

About The Author

Constance Toh
Constance Toh

Constance Toh is a testament to the transformative power of education and determination. Born in a remote village in Cameroon, Constance's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a teacher in the United States is a remarkable story of resilience and hope. Her life was profoundly influenced by an extraordinary chemistry teacher who saw her potential and changed the course of her destiny. Constance's determination to break free from poverty, illiteracy, and societal expectations led her toward leadership and academic excellence. She is a beacon of inspiration, proving that one's origins do not dictate one's destiny. Through her narrative, Constance seeks to inspire you to overcome adversity and embrace the power of education.

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Overview

Inside The Book

The foundation of my understanding of the value of money was laid down early on in life, and it felt significant at that time. The ability to trade goods for money was a skill that my mother ingrained in me from a young age. As I grew older, I found my calling in teaching, but the journey wasn't straightforward.

My leadership journey wasn't limited to high school; it began much earlier when I was still in primary school. I held positions of responsibility, such as the class prefect, and for seven years, I had the honor of being the Head Girl - as they used to call it back then.

My original aspiration was to work in healthcare, but the journey proved challenging. During my struggle, I was fortunate to cross paths with a charming, youthful man already established in the medical profession. His presence was a beacon of hope, reminding me that my dreams weren't entirely out of reach. He became my husband, and his role in medicine felt like a sign that I could still make the field a part of my life, albeit indirectly.

When I share that my life lessons include motherhood as a form of education, it's not something I've picked up from a traditional learning environment. It refers to my acquired skills in nurturing and caring for children. I mean, nobody taught me to cook, at least not in a school setting. Yet, I've managed to provide for my children and continue to do so even to this date.

In Discover, Nurture, And Share, You Will Learn

Growing up in severe financial hardship gave me a compelling reason to claw my way out. My focus was laser-sharp; I was engrossed in books and dedicated to altering my life's trajectory. I was fully aware of the painful tradition inherited from my illiterate grandmother, as was my mother. I feared that if I failed to break the cycle, my offspring, too, would be unable to read or write.

Being the youngest of six siblings was a significant force in shaping me. I was the only one among us who had the opportunity to attend high school. This reality was etched in my mind, and the image of my aging mother heightened it. She wasn't young, given that I was the last child, and this filled my heart with empathy for her. I was determined, more than anything, not to let her pass away in her existing circumstances.

I eagerly volunteered for such tasks and responsibilities, hoping for recognition. Whenever another pupil was needed for a task, they'd often call upon me, referring to me by my middle name, Constance. It would be something like taking an item to the principal's office. Then, I felt like a tiny leader. Throughout my secondary school years, I held leadership roles. I was the head girl and class president, and in my final year of secondary school, which was high school, I had the position of senior girl's prefect.

Even in the classroom, this question was prevalent. The perception was that despite being a bright and intelligent girl, I should be sticking around with boys, not surpassing them. The concept that a girl could outperform was met with skepticism, and it was indeed a challenging battle. People would resort to name-calling and hurl insults at me. Questions about my intent and accusations of showing off were thrown in abundance. Despite all the talk, it pushed me further; I was adamant about holding my ground.

The most significant challenge I encountered, apart from the societal expectations of my gender, was the disbelief that I could pursue education and succeed. The primary obstacle arose when I left my birthplace. My homeland is bilingual - a small 20% of the population converse in English, while the majority, 80%, speak French. I hail from the minority English-speaking segment.

I found the prospect of teaching delightful. My fondness for children and passion for shaping young minds ultimately led me to choose this path. Throughout my life, I've always enjoyed being around kids. I was a doting aunt to my nieces and nephews as a child despite our minimal age difference. We were raised under the same roof, and I cherished every moment with them as if they were my siblings.

From my perspective, knowledge is a complex topic. We all need to be knowledgeable, but there certainly is information that makes me scratch my head in wonder. Why, you ask? It's because I don't see how it directly affects my life. For example, suppose I had opted not to delve into certain areas of learning. In that case, I doubt it would have hindered my growth or transformation into who I am today.

In addition to the formal education I received, the lessons from my parents have been invaluable. They provided me with an informal education that shaped my life approach. They equipped me with skills and knowledge that I've been able to combine with my formal education. Their teachings have undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for my personal and professional growth.

An intriguing part of my learning journey is mastering the art of hair braiding, another skill I didn't pick up from school. There's a multitude of things that I've picked up outside the four walls of a classroom.

It's all about staying true to yourself and maintaining that determination. Keep your eyes on the prize. Concentrate on your aspirations. Don't let anyone belittle your dreams, regardless of who they may be. People's opinions of you are their affairs. But what's your perception of yourself? Do you have faith in your abilities? Do you even have a target to aim for, something to empower you?

My journey as an educator today is a testament to their backing. The reason is that my teaching isn't confined to the four walls of a schoolroom; it also extends to my home. My children are the first recipients of my pedagogical skills. They are like my initial interns with whom I practice.

You might give it your all, but others may perceive you differently. It's crucial to ask oneself: What am I contributing? What was my objective? I'll strive to give my best effort regardless. Then, I'll forge ahead with that intention. Honesty is critical, as that's what my sacred text instructs and what my parents instilled in me: always do the right thing. Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself.

As we plunge into this "Lessons" chapter, we will synthesize the essence of these teachings, distilling the profound insights and life principles gleaned from years of lived experiences. Let's embark on this reflective journey, drawing from the wellsprings of wisdom that have enriched a life dedicated to learning, teaching, and empowering others.

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Wealth Footprints
paperback-edition

Discover, Nurture, And Share

By Constance Toh

Paperback $19.95

Kindle $9.83

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Author's Quote

"Your hidden talent is your superpower, waiting to be discovered, nurtured, and shared. It is realizing our potential that empowers us to help others realize theirs."

- Constance Toh

Audience

Educators and Students

The author's transition from a remote village to an American classroom positions the book to resonate with educators and students, especially those interested in cross-cultural experiences and the transformative power of education.

Immigrants and Cultural Transition Narratives

The story caters to immigrants or those undergoing cultural transitions, highlighting the potential within such journeys and the challenges and triumphs associated with them.

Aspiring Professionals in Creative or Vocational Fields

The detailed discussion about identifying and nurturing talent, such as dressmaking, suggests the book is aimed at individuals considering or already in creative or vocational professions.

Personal Development Enthusiasts

The book’s overarching theme of personal empowerment through talent discovery and development aligns well with audiences interested in self-help and motivational stories.

Other Wealth Foot-Printers

Contact

Constance Toh

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Would you like free coaching from Constance Toh or any other information? Please fill out this form.

Boston, Massachusetts, USA
constytoh@yahoo.com
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