Meet Dr. Uwa Onyioha Osimiri | President and CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Uwa Onyioha Osimiri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Uwa, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I hail from Nigeria, a place where the idea of community takes center stage in our values and beliefs. My family instilled in me the understanding that the well-being of our community rests on the shoulders of those who have achieved success. There’s a powerful saying in our culture: “My wealth lies in my community.” This emphasizes that true success isn’t measured by personal riches but by our contributions to those around us.

Another profound saying reminds us that one cannot flaunt their wealth while their community suffers, highlighting the interconnectedness of our lives. Pride comes not just from individual accomplishments but from the collective prosperity of our community. My parents, particularly my father, emphasized this wisdom, ensuring I understood my responsibility to make a difference. He would often ask, “What will your tombstone say?” This question served as a reminder to reflect on the value I offer to society and how I wish to be remembered.

These teachings paved the way for my life’s work. I operate group homes for the mentally challenged, driven by a passion to help those in distress. I pursued a PhD in clinical psychology to deepen my understanding and skills in aiding others. Additionally, I am the president of the African Women Mobilization Commission, where we focus on uplifting young black girls through STEM initiatives and empowering women to engage in community work.

Through these endeavors, I strive to embody the legacy my parents instilled in me, contributing to a brighter future for my community and ensuring that my wealth—rooted in collective upliftment—continues to grow. My journey is a testament to the belief that true fulfillment lies in serving others and fostering a supportive environment for all.
I am also the International Matron for the Actors Guild of Nigeria scheduled to host a phenomenal annual festival in Atlanta Georgia, in November featuring Nollywood talent and global collaboration.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart from others is my unwavering dedication to helping those in need, a commitment deeply rooted in my experiences growing up as a survivor of the Nigerian Civil War. The horrors I witnessed during that time instilled in me a profound understanding of the devastating effects of unchecked anger and power. I saw death up close and personal, and I survived bombings that left a mark on my soul. My father always encouraged me to use my experiences as a catalyst for service to humanity, reminding me that I didn’t have the right to die until I made a difference.

Through the challenges, I found that they often reveal what works and what doesn’t. I believe in problem-solving as a method of learning. When faced with obstacles, I start by assessing the situation: What is the problem? what is causing it? Who is affected? What are the consequences of not solving it? Are there cost factors? I brainstorm potential solutions, ranking them by effectiveness. If my chosen solution doesn’t work, I don’t give up; I explore the alternatives until I find one that does.

I have discovered that focusing on my goals helps me improve continuously. I tune out the naysayers and concentrate on what matters most. While I value input from others, I ultimately trust my instincts and experiences when making decisions. I see all suggestions as tools to enhance my existing knowledge, not as directives I must follow blindly.

Our business is primarily focused on organizing the annual Black Girls Rise events. This year, the event is scheduled for October 15th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. It aims to bring young girls together for motivational presentations and provide them with bags or containers filled with personal hygiene items. Our goal is to encourage self-care and inspire them to remain in school.

Additionally, we’ve established the African Women Mobilization Commission, where women in our community actively engage in various supportive initiatives. One such program is “Against All Odds,” a black-tie affair that honors individuals making a significant difference in the community. Although traditionally held in August, we plan to host this event next year.

Additionally, we have the annual health walk on September 2025 20th, 10am
at 800 Old Snellville Highway, Lawrenceville. This community health initiative encourages active participation from families as they engage in a 5-mile walk, promoting awareness about critical health issues. The event will feature knowledgeable speakers discussing various health topics, including malaria, sickle cell disease, high blood pressure, and HIV/AIDS.

The Health Walk aims to not only enhance community engagement but also provide an educational platform for families to learn about health issues that affect them, fostering a spirit of togetherness and shared knowledge.

I also host “The NDUMODU Show,” a weekly program featuring diverse topics and guest speakers. The show focuses on motivational content, providing valuable insights and inspiration to our audience.

To support our mission of empowering black girls through STEM education, we have innovative fundraising initiatives such as the Stemshe Crypto coins, our MANU ANU Body Cream for men and women, the $50 Virtual Marathon (a virtual event where participants donate to support our organization and its various programs), are fundraisers for purchasing a dedicated housing building for these young girls.

Together, these efforts aim to create a lasting impact in the lives of young girls and foster a supportive community. My work in this field is not driven by a desire to accumulate wealth; rather, it is fueled by a passion to help others overcome their challenges. I am immensely proud of my resilience. There were times when I faced significant difficulties and was tempted to give up, but I refused to let those moments define me. I often funded my organization out of my pocket, and while it was financially taxing, the joy of knowing that I was helping others kept me going. I am grateful for the support I receive through grants and donations, but I take pride in my refusal to abandon those who rely on me, even when resources are scarce.

The journey to where I am today was anything but easy. I learned early on that hard work, perseverance, and a refusal to give in to despair were essential to my success. While others slept, I was up late, working diligently toward my goals. I discovered that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. The experiences I gathered along the way taught me that being in a challenging position is a choice; you can either fight your way up or remain stagnant. I learned that achieving success requires dedication, effort, and sometimes, a willingness to sweat and struggle.

What I want the world to know about me is that I am a woman dedicated to solving problems—not just for myself, but for others as well. I run motivational programs, such as “Write Your Own Story” and “You Are Not Bound by Yesterday,” which encourage people to take control of their narratives and look forward rather than becoming trapped by their pasts.

I firmly believe that we all have a responsibility to make the world a better place. The joy that comes from serving others is something one must experience to truly understand. I have learned that kindness and love for others are how we serve humanity and, in turn, show our love for the Creator. It’s not enough to just speak about compassion; we must embody it through our actions. I believe that what I give to others ultimately comes back to me, which fuels my determination to create positive change in the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week-long trip, I would make sure to curate an itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and a bit of fun, centered around the things I enjoy most. Here’s how I would plan our time together:

Day 1: Arrival and Riverside Relaxation
– Morning: Welcome my friend and enjoy a leisurely brunch at a cozy café with a view of the river. We’d indulge in some delicious seafood dishes and fresh salads.
– Afternoon: After brunch, we’d take a stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the scenery and watching the activities around the water. It’s a great way to unwind and catch up.
– Evening: We’d head to a nearby seafood restaurant for dinner, where we could sample the local catch of the day. Afterward, we could find a spot by the river to relax and enjoy the sunset.

Day 2: Art and Culture
– Morning: We’d start the day with a visit to a local art gallery. I love exploring different exhibitions and discovering new artists, so I’d make sure to choose one that features local talent.
– Afternoon: Lunch at a trendy café nearby, perhaps with an outdoor patio, to enjoy the fresh air. Then, we’d visit a few more galleries or artisan shops to soak up the local creative scene.
– Evening: Dinner at a restaurant known for its ambiance and seafood specialties. We could finish the night with a visit to a local live music venue or concert, enjoying some great performances.

Day 3: Adventure and Nature
– Morning: We’d venture out to a nearby nature reserve or park for some outdoor activities, like hiking or kayaking. Being in nature is refreshing, and it would provide us with the chance to bond and share stories.
– Afternoon: Picnic lunch by the river or in a scenic area of the park. We could pack some snacks and beverages to enjoy while taking in the views.
– Evening: After a day of adventure, we’d have a relaxed dinner at a popular local spot, perhaps one that has a lively atmosphere and great seafood options.

Day 4: Exploring Local Attractions
– Morning: I’d take my friend to visit a few notable landmarks or tourist attractions recommended by the local tourist bureau. We could explore museums, historical sites, or unique local shops.
– Afternoon: Lunch at a café known for its seafood chowder or a seafood platter. Afterward, we’d continue exploring or take a guided tour to learn more about the area.
– Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a view, allowing us to enjoy the local cuisine while overlooking the river or cityscape.

Day 5: Relaxation and Pampering
– Morning: A leisurely breakfast at our favorite café, followed by a spa day. We could indulge in massages and treatments to unwind and recharge.
– Afternoon: Light lunch at a nearby bistro, then perhaps a visit to a local market or boutique for some shopping.
– Evening: We’d enjoy a casual dinner at a seafood joint with a fun vibe, followed by a stroll along the river to take in the night lights.

Day 6: Local Events and Nightlife
– Morning: A relaxed morning with brunch, then checking out any local events or festivals happening in the area. It’s a great way to experience the community.
– Afternoon: We could grab some snacks at the event and enjoy the festivities, mingling with locals and soaking up the atmosphere.
– Evening: Dinner at a lively restaurant, followed by a night out at a local bar or club where we can enjoy some music and dancing.

Day 7: Reflection and Farewell
– Morning: A final leisurely breakfast together, reflecting on the week and the memories we’ve made.
– Afternoon: Depending on our energy levels, we could take one last stroll by the river or visit a favorite spot before my friend heads home.
– Evening: A heartfelt goodbye, promising to keep in touch and reminisce about our fun week together.

Throughout the week, I’d rely on recommendations from the local tourist bureau to ensure that we get the best experiences possible. It would be a wonderful blend of relaxation, culture, and connection, creating lasting memories for both of us!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to take a moment to give a heartfelt shout-out to the incredible individuals who have shaped my journey. First and foremost, my parents deserve immense recognition. I vividly remember the encouraging words my father shared with me during my childhood. He would wake me up at 5:00 a.m. and take me to the back of our home, which faced East. While the world was still asleep, we would sit on the stoop and watch the sunrise together.

In the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War, I faced many challenges that left a lasting impact on me. My father wanted to ensure that I understood a vital lesson: someone else’s opinion of me should never define my reality. As we watched the sunrise, he would express his excitement, wanting me to see the beauty and power of this moment. He explained that the sun, the greatest manifestation of God, was the only thing greater than me. He instilled in me the belief that only God can define me, and that no one else holds that power.

He often reminded me that I don’t have the right to die until I’ve made a difference, and to never live anywhere unknown. My mother, too, played a crucial role in shaping my perspective. She would share stories of her struggles as a child and how she overcame them, emphasizing that it’s not the narrative others tell about you that matters, but the story you present to the world. She encouraged me to represent myself authentically, ensuring that others recognize me for who I truly am.

I also want to dedicate this shout-out to my wonderful children—my son Nnamdi Onyioha Osimiri and my two daughters, Kelenna Osimiri and Adaora Osimiri . Each of them is an achiever in their own right, never giving up and always fighting through challenges. They are incredibly encouraging and respectful, and I truly appreciate their support.
Also, my awesome brother Udee Onyioha who is my cheerleader, my dear friends and mentors Tim Byers and Joe Byers for their support, both financially and partnership.

Additionally, I want to acknowledge the dedicated women of the African Women Mobilization Commission and the men who support us. They have worked tirelessly to assist young children in Nigeria, particularly those in IDP camps, often without pay or compensation. Their selflessness and commitment to helping others inspire me every day.

My niece Dr. Nnenne Onyioha Clayton and sister in Spain Dr. Oby Onyioha Pearce also deserve recognition, along with my wonderful grandsons, Amaoha Lewis and Ikenna Lewis who keep me motivated to work hard for a brighter future. There are so many remarkable people in my life, and I am grateful for each one of them. They remind me that community, resilience, and love are the driving forces behind all that I do.

Website: https://www.awmcglobal.org

Youtube: Ndumodu TV

Image Credits
Dr. Uwa Onyioha Osimiri