Woman of many parts, Ugochi Onyekwere in USA joins league of top Nigeria International celebrities in Diaspora

A former First Lady of the United States of America, Jacky Kennedy Onassis, once said: “Age is but a state of the mind. Always be grateful for life; be grateful to God and be of cheers to the people who love and cherish you.”

That may well be the philosophy guiding the life of Mrs. Ugochi K Onyekwere (nee Ogwuma), one of the prides of Africa’s womanhood abroad.

The woman of many parts is set to mark her 50th birthday on January 7, 2023, with a robust celebration. In fact, attaining the age of 50 is no doubt a landmark achievement in life, especially when you are lucky to have passed through many hurdles and triumphed over them all. Therefore, when the woman of many parts hits the golden age within the week, a robust celebration is in the offing. In this interview, the celebrant talks about her life through the years and expectations

 

 

Could you tell us about yourself?

My name is Ugochi K. Onyekwere (nee Ogwuma). I will be 50 on January 7, 2023. I hailed from Abia State in Nigeria and I’ve been residing in New Jersey, USA for 22 years. I am a wife to a handsome and caring husband, a mother of four lovely children, a family-oriented daughter and sister, and lastly a registered nurse in America.

How long have you been in the health sector?

I have been in the health care system for 29 years but I’ve practiced as a nurse in the USA for 14 years. Currently, I am furthering my nursing career through an online graduate school for Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) program, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track.

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Have you ever at any point in your life had/shown interest in modeling?

Yes, I have. I’ve always had a thing for fashion and modeling for as long as I can remember. Decades ago (1992 precisely), growing up in Nigeria, I won the contest for Ms. Nigeria in Imo State. It was made possible due to my smartness, intellectual capability, body build, and coordinated walks. Furthermore, upon relocation to the USA, as far back as 2002, I was approached and picked to model for an organization that wanted us to work together but my focus at that point in time was on pursuing my nursing career. So, I had to turn down the offer.

More so, in 2005 I was chosen by my university (Seton Hall), for the cover page of the school brochure. As a matter of fact, I won it.

This has been the journey so far, regarding modeling. It is something I have so much passion for and I do it effortlessly; age isn’t even a factor that can quench that part of me. Need I mention that it’s hereditary? My kids too have an interest in modeling. My son, Ikenna (Elevated Ike) on YouTube, is working on his brand; my daughter Oluoma modeled for her school (Cornell University); my second son Lawrence, is into fitness modeling and the list goes on. So, one way or another, modeling seems to be innate.

What are your hobbies, strengths, and weaknesses?

As expected of every human, we all have these aforementioned sides. My hobbies include striking poses and taking loads of pictures, making short video clips of myself, dressing up, making friends, and maintaining a great circle (you can call me a social butterfly. I just want everyone to have the right vibes and energy when they’re around me.

Nevertheless, my weakness lies in the fact that I am not usually calm when upset, impulsive, maybe; but I try to let it out and let it go so that way I can’t, I won’t and I don’t bear grudges. I have a distinct voice that can be totally misunderstood but with time people around me get conversant with it.

Finally, my strength! I am a giver in every sense of the word. I can give my very last and go broke than watch someone wallow in need. It’s a rare kind of heart I have and I’m grateful to God for it even though sometimes it can be overwhelming but I’d rather be the giver and helper.

What other characteristics would you say make you special?

Wow, I guess this is the part where I’m allowed to blow my own trumpet. Those around me, family friends, and those whose paths have crossed with mine can generally attest to the fact I’m about to state. I have the kind of personality that screams so much elegance, class, poise, and charisma. Behind the glamorous face and appearance, you have that woman who spreads love, kindness, and positivity. I love family; the idea and concept of family.

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So, I don’t joke with anyone I call family. I love to carry everyone along. I’m the kind of woman who always lends a shoulder to those who genuinely need one. I am a go-getter; I set and crush goals. I simply believe there’s no limit to what I can achieve once I set my heart to do it. Most importantly, I love God because He’s the reason I am where I am today and whatever I am, I owe it all to him. I remember vividly the ordeal I had to go through sometime in April 2019 when I was kidnapped when I visited Nigeria; that was an incident capable of pushing anyone into depression and a case of stigma. I make bold to say I am a typical instance of the proverbial “rose that grew from thorns”, yet God alone came through for me by giving me a second chance at life. I survived only because of God’s grace and mercy.

What are the things you are most grateful for?

Asides from God, the very next thing that I remain eternally grateful for is the gift and blessing in the person of my husband. He’s one of the major reasons I made it this far. He’s been readily supportive in our marriage, the journey has been somewhat seamless because of his understanding personality, I can say today that he gave me the wings to soar because he’s been nothing but a pillar of strength and encouragement. My win is his win! Exactly why I call him my  “nwanne” is because he’s a brother, a friend, and my husband all in one. Thank You sir for standing by me… I love you!

I’m also grateful to God for my kids who keep making me a proud mother at every given chance. I appreciate my late father ( Mr. Sampson Ogwuma) for a great foundation, my late uncle (Mr. Chukwuemeka Nwadibia, a one-time treasurer in Abia state, Nigeria) who brought to life my dream of becoming a nurse, this journey that began way back in Arochukwu local government in Nigeria, where I first gained a scholarship to study community health.

I appreciate my mother (Mrs. Uloma M. Ogwuma) and my siblings for being in my life too, all of them put together to make life fun and worth living… Kisses!

In conclusion, I’m grateful for the privilege and beautiful opportunity of sharing part of my story with the world. Shout out to acclaimed African designer Dhabrikhenchy for his in-depth discovery of the hidden potential in me and for giving me a push to the limelight, via his introduction to prominent Nigerians abroad.

 

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