Ice Prince shared his journey from orphanhood, losing both parents young, to stardom, highlighting struggles and resilience on the Listen podcast.
Early losses that changed his life
Ice Prince recounted how tragedy struck early in his life. He lost his father at just 11 years old and later his mother when he was 21. These losses left him as the sole breadwinner in a large family, with no parental support or financial safety net.
“I don’t have a mother or father,” Ice Prince said during the podcast. “I’m an only son. That’s quite tough. I was eleven years old when I lost my dad. I was about 21 or 22 when my mum passed away. And I have a huge family that depends on me.”
The absence of parental guidance forced him to mature quickly and navigate life’s challenges independently. “I don’t have an uncle, aunty, godfather, or godmother that I depend on,” he continued. “It has been nothing but God in my life.”
Struggles with education and menial jobs
Despite his talent and determination, financial difficulties derailed Ice Prince’s educational journey. He revealed that he missed out on attending university because he couldn’t afford the tuition fees. The sum required—N20,000—was out of reach for the young Zamani, despite his best efforts.
“I was the guy that spent at least three weeks at home every term because of school fees,” he explained. “I didn’t go to university because of N20,000. I had about two weeks to pay that money, but I couldn’t raise it on time. That was how I lost the admission.”
To make ends meet, Ice Prince took on various menial jobs. These roles were necessary to support himself and contribute to his family’s well-being. Though he did not elaborate on the specific jobs, his story reflects the harsh reality faced by many young Nigerians striving to balance education and survival.
Inspiration for others
Today, Ice Prince’s journey serves as a source of inspiration. He wants people to see his success as proof that overcoming adversity is possible. “I want people to look at my life and say if I can succeed, then no one has an excuse to fail,” he declared.
His message resonates deeply in a society where many youths face similar challenges, particularly when it comes to access to education and economic opportunities. Ice Prince’s honesty about his struggles highlights the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of hardship.
Gratitude and faith
Throughout his life, Ice Prince has leaned on his faith to guide him. He credits his survival and success to divine intervention, describing his journey as one marked by the grace of God. This faith has been his anchor in moments of despair, helping him navigate life’s uncertainties.
“I’ve had no one else to depend on but God,” he said. His words reflect a profound sense of gratitude for the resilience and strength that have carried him through life’s storms.
Rising above challenges
Ice Prince’s story is not just about loss; it’s about triumph over adversity. From a young boy struggling to pay school fees to a global music icon, his journey underscores the power of determination and hard work. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by many orphans and vulnerable children in Nigeria, where access to quality education and support systems remains limited.
Call to action
Ice Prince’s narrative also serves as a reminder of the need for societal change. The lack of affordable education and social safety nets often leaves children like him with limited options. His story should inspire policymakers, educators, and philanthropists to create systems that support disadvantaged youths and provide them with opportunities to thrive.
Legacy of resilience
Through his music and advocacy, Ice Prince continues to inspire millions. His candidness about his past adds depth to his artistry, making his lyrics relatable to those who have faced similar struggles. As he forges ahead in his career, his story will remain a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
In sharing his experiences, Ice Prince hopes to motivate others to overcome their own obstacles. His life is a shining example of how persistence, faith, and hard work can lead to success—even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Ice Prince’s journey from orphanhood to global stardom is a powerful reminder that one’s circumstances do not have to define their destiny.
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