A Personal Introduction
My name is Egbodo Benjamin Ida, a young graduate quantity surveyor from the University of Jos (UNIJOS), and my journey into the world of construction has taken a unique turn. You see, I didn’t just want to limit myself to the confines of a conventional job in quantity surveying; I felt a deep urge to share my insights and experiences with a broader audience. This realization sparked my passion for blogging and running a magazine focused on construction from the perspective of a quantity surveyor. Additionally, I am proud to run the ThisIsHipHopHQ blog and magazine, a platform dedicated to celebrating hip-hop culture, which has garnered four international awards and a nomination for Social Founder of the Year under 30 by FOYA Africa.
The Genesis of My Passion
From the moment I set foot in the construction industry, I was fascinated by the intricate details that go into every building project. I marveled at how quantity surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring projects run smoothly, financially and contractually. However, I noticed a gap—many people outside the profession, including aspiring builders and everyday citizens, had little understanding of what quantity surveying truly entails. I wanted to bridge that gap.
The Power of Education and Awareness
Enlightening the Public
I chose to blog and publish a magazine because I believe education is key. Construction isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about understanding the entire process, from budgeting and planning to execution and quality control. I wanted to provide insights that could help demystify the complexities of the construction industry.
Through my writing, I aim to cover various topics, including:
- Cost Management: Educating readers on how quantity surveyors develop budgets and manage project costs effectively.
- Contractual Insights: Providing a glimpse into the types of contracts and agreements that govern construction projects.
- Sustainability Practices: Highlighting the importance of sustainable building practices and how they impact the environment.
- Industry Trends: Discussing emerging trends in construction technology, materials, and methodologies that influence the profession.
Sharing Personal Experiences
My blog and magazine are also platforms for sharing my personal experiences. I recount the challenges I faced during my studies and early career, from tackling complex calculations to understanding the nuances of site management. I share anecdotes that resonate with both industry veterans and newcomers, offering relatable content that engages my readers.
Building a Community
Fostering Collaboration
In my quest to promote awareness about quantity surveying, I aim to build a community of like-minded individuals—professionals, students, and enthusiasts. I envision a space where we can exchange ideas, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects that elevate our industry.
Through my magazine, I encourage contributions from fellow quantity surveyors, architects, engineers, and construction workers. This collaborative approach enriches the content and provides diverse perspectives on the construction process.
Embracing Technology
Digital Outreach
In today’s digital age, technology plays a crucial role in how we communicate and share information. I leverage social media and online platforms to reach a wider audience, making construction knowledge accessible to all. By creating engaging content—be it blog posts, articles, or videos—I aim to inspire curiosity about the construction industry and the vital role quantity surveyors play within it.
The Challenges of Blogging and Publishing
While my journey has been rewarding, it hasn’t been without its challenges. As a recent graduate, I faced hurdles such as:
Time Management: Balancing my work as a quantity surveyor with blogging and running a magazine can be overwhelming. However, I’ve learned to prioritize and allocate dedicated time for each task, ensuring that my passion project receives the attention it deserves.
Content Creation: Producing high-quality, informative content consistently can be demanding. I often find myself researching extensively to provide valuable insights, but the learning process fuels my passion and keeps me motivated.
The Impact I Hope to Make
Through my blog and magazine, I aspire to:
Educate Aspiring Quantity Surveyors: By sharing tips, study materials, and career advice, I hope to guide aspiring quantity surveyors on their journeys.
Increase Awareness Among the General Public: I want people to understand the importance of quantity surveying and how it contributes to successful construction projects. When the public is informed, they can make better decisions regarding their construction needs.
Promote Best Practices in Construction: I aim to advocate for quality, sustainability, and ethical practices within the industry. By raising awareness about these topics, I hope to contribute to a more responsible and innovative construction sector.
Conclusion: A Journey of Purpose
In choosing to blog and run a magazine as a quantity surveyor, I found my voice and purpose within the construction industry. Running the ThisIsHipHopHQ platform has allowed me to merge my passions for quantity surveying and hip-hop culture, and I’m dedicated to enlightening others about the importance of both fields. As I continue on this journey, I remain committed to fostering a culture of education, collaboration, and excellence within our profession.
So, whether you’re an aspiring quantity surveyor, a construction enthusiast, or simply curious about the industry, I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, we can build a brighter future for the construction sector and hip-hop culture, one blog post and magazine issue at a time.
Call to Action
Are you interested in learning more about quantity surveying and construction? Follow my blog and magazine for insights, tips, and resources that can help you navigate the industry. Let’s connect, collaborate, and elevate our understanding of construction and hip-hop together!
Quiz Time!
- What motivated Egbodo Benjamin Ida to start a blog and magazine focused on quantity surveying?
- What topics does Egbodo aim to cover in his content?
- How does Egbodo plan to build a community around quantity surveying?
- What challenges did Egbodo face while balancing his profession and his passion project?
- How does Egbodo hope to impact the construction industry through his work?
By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and make a difference in their fields, just as I am striving to do in quantity surveying and hip-hop culture.