A New Year. A New Queen. A New Vision.

WOW! I just have to thank GOD! People tell me that the shock and excitement will eventually wear off but I'm not convinced that it ever will. Well...let me not say that because as soon as I have to hand over my crown to make way for a new queen with a new vision I'm sure I'll be shocked but in no way will I be excited! (LOL) I can't believe that 4 months have already passed. It seems like yesterday I was jumping up and down after hearing my name and the announcement that I, Ronke Abidemi Oke, have been crowned Miss Nigeria in America, 2008! WHOA! Now its four months later and I am just now beginning to track my journey. This is actually a great place to start. I am now settled in my new position, have set up my vision and platform for the year, and from today on out will be engaged in what I like to call "Implementation." I am very excited about this year, about what will happen next. But it seems fair to bring you up to speed....

September 6, 2008
As soon as I was crowned I was given my first appearance as Miss Nigeria in America. I presented an award to Honorable Patience Jonathan (wife of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Vice President of Nigeria) at the 'Beyond the Tears' Humanitarian Awards Show in Harlem, New York. My presentation would have been memorable if in fact I had a chance to meet the 2nd Lady Mrs. Patience Jonathan. Unfortunately for me she and everyone else of importance in Nigeria made an emergency trip back to Nigeria. I just stood on stage smiling that big smile of mine as I presented to the Secretary who accepted the award on her behalf. But it didn't turn out too bad. I was pleased that everyone was excited about my appearance at the event and genuinely wanted to meet me, exchange business cards, and take pictures. I felt like a celebrity and received all of the perks that comes with fame. I also got to reconnect with one of my fellow Delegates from the Pageant and my twin, Joycee Awojoodu, Miss Enugu 2008.

October 25, 2008
The next event I attended was Nylah's Catering's Charity Gala, "Feed the Children". The event was phenomenal. I learned so much about the lives of our children back home in Nigeria. The event sought to provide food for the thousands of child hawkers on Nigeria's street and sponsored the Poorest of the Poor orphanage in Abuja. It was also my first speaking engagement. I was so committed to the efforts that Nylah's Catering was sponsoring so the words I offered were directly from my heart. My speech, I think, encouraged everyone to take responsibility for the state of our children and to make it their duty to provide these street children with a life of love, hope, opportunity, security, well-being and prosperity. I also took the opportunity to introduce the audience to who I was and to make them aware of the work I plan to do this year. I think that my main appeal is that I do everything with passion. From the words I speak to servicing the community to getting all Nigerians involved to the platform I adopted this year, all of this resounds the passion I have for other people and the pride I have in my culture and country. I was delighted to have an opportunity to share this message with the people at the Gala event.

November 28, 2008

After the Charity event I visited the women of N Street Village. N Street Village is in the District of Columbia and the organization provides food, clothing, showers, transitional and permanent housing, mental and physical health care, and support for homeless and low-income women. N Street Village empowers the women and encourages them to reach their highest potential in all areas of life. Serving over 600 women, N Street Village has been built and maintained with principals of strength, dignity, ability, and personal responsibility. I participated in the Sister's Circle program and drew from my personal experiences and ideals to empower the women of the N Street Village. But the main inspiration came from the women of N Street. The stories that they shared and their willingness to open their lives so that others could learn from their decisions was amazing. They taught me that day that life is a fight for happiness and realizing that happiness is not just momentary pleasure but a way of life that you commit to every day of your life. And they also reminded me that life is also about the decisions you make. Though we cannot always make the best decisions, we have to prevent ourselves from reaching rock bottom before we begin to fight for our happiness. I think I learned more from the women than they did from me. That's how life is sometimes. You think you are going to be of service to someone else but you end up being served. And it is in those moments that you realize how valuable the spiritual bond between women really is. For this reason, MNIA, Inc. is going to continue working with the women at N Street and have made a pact to continue to support this mission in uplifting women globally.

December 13, 2008

For the Christmas season, I made a trip to Los Angeles to support Miss Nigeria in America, 2007, Ms. Peace Amadi, as MNIA, Inc. returned to PATH Regional Homeless Center. This year marks the third year MNIA has been involved with PATH. With a mission that seeks to "break the cycle of homelessness by empowering people with the tools for self-sufficiency," PATH assists their members with finding work, securing housing, and life empowerment. Their "hand up" approach (as opposed to a "hand out") to tackling the growing problem of homelessness is innovative and simply inspirational. This event seemed to me to be the epitome of selfless service:it was not about MNIA at all that day, it was about the men and women at PATH. Everything we did was a full commitment to ensuring that the people at PATH felt the love that only the holidays can bring. While preparing the meal for that evening we put more than our foot into it, we put our hearts, our souls, and every fiber of our being. And as we sang the Christmas carols, we poured out our hearts. I read this quote that seems fitting for this event: The best exercise for the heart is to bend over and help someone out." And I can honestly say that we got a full workout.

As you can see, the first 4 months have been a tailspin of adventure and appearances. With magazine interviews, photo shoots, invitations to various events, and a large network of supporters and contributors, I truly feel like a queen. I also feel extremely supported. Everywhere I go and everyone I have met has shown me nothing but love and support. They want to help. People want to be involved in the changes that Nigeria is beginning to see. They are excited about fresh ideas and persons who are committed to resolving the problems that thwart the growth and development of such a strong nation. I thank everyone for their support. It is truly what keeps me going.

If people are excited about the past 4 months, just wait until you see what I have in store. 2009 is a big year for the world and I plan to do my part and, as my sister Dupe always says, leave my footprint on the world!

Much Love,

Ronke Abidemi Oke
Miss Nigeria in America 2008

Day 3 & 4 -(Saturday and Sunday)

Well nothing much happened this weekend as I will be going to the doctor tomorrow to check out why this bad cold keeps resurfacing... I have nothing to report today and I will continue my journal tomorrow. I will be back in full swing....

I know some of you came to read thinking I had posted something new today but I didn't so I encourage you to go back to my previous posts and read about Diabetes, the types of diabetes and causes

Here were the questions and my responses that I posed on Friday

1. Do I go to the gym? If so, is my workout routine working? Do I do enough exercise?
Well I go to the gym but not as often as I should and I have made a commitment to myself to try harder. I have a couple of classes scheduled for this week and I bought a skipping rope.

2. How much do I weigh? Try this test and figure out what your weight should be http://www.halls.md/ideal-weight/body.htm

Wow..(Did I ask this questions lol) Okay I weigh 165pounds. In other words, I gained a cool 25 pounds which I intend to lose in the next couple of months. My weight for my age and height is supposed to be 140 pounds.

3. What commitments will I make to myself now to make sure I stay healthy.
I am committed to eating healthy, exercising and keeping fit.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. I promise a full week of exercise, information and a lot more to help us with the Diabetes Awareness Week.

Love

ChiChi Dike
MNIA, Inc.

Day 2 - May 16, 2008

I was not able to go the gym today because I am still down with a cold and I am hoping to get some antibiotics on Monday. But needless to say, I intend to go to my kick boxing class tomorrow morning so at least I can get my strength and energy. I intend to uphold my commitment of riding on June 14, 2008 to create awareness for Diabetes. Yesterday, I put up information about Diabetes and the different types of Diabetes. I also posed some questions which I hoped you asked yourselves and possibly answered.
My own answers are below:
1. Does Diabetes run in my family?
No, not to my knowledge but since Nigeria does not have good records of family history, I don’t know my grandparents/great-grandparents history so I will make a conscious effort to keep myself informed and stay healthy
2. If so, what kind of Diabetes does my family member have?
N/A
3. Am I fully aware and informed about Diabetes and the type of Diabetes that my family member has?
After researching and writing on this blog, I will say I have learnt more than I knew before.

For the next couple of days, we will focus on the risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes. Suich risk factors include:

1. Obesity
2. Sedentary Lifestyle
3. Unhealthy Eating Habits
4. Family History and Genetic
5. . Increased Age
6. High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol

Our topic today will focus on Obesity, the definition of Obesity and ways to stay fit and healthy

Obesity
The number one risk factor for type 2 diabetes is obesity. The National Center for Health Statistics states that 30% of adults are obese. That's about 60 million people. I know we have heard the word several times but what does Obesity really mean?

Obesity is a condition in which the natural energy reserve, stored in the fatty tissue of humans and other mammals, exceeds healthy limits. It is commonly defined as a body mass index (weight divided by height squared) of 30 kg/m2 or higher.

Although obesity is an individual clinical condition, some authorities view it as a serious and growing public health problem. Some studies show that excessive body weight has been shown to predispose to various diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus type 2, sleep apnea and osteoarthritis
Greater weight means a higher risk of insulin resistance, because fat interferes with the body's ability to use insulin. According to the same study, the number of overweight kids has tripled since 1980. The number of children being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes has also risen. (Information culled from (http://diabetes.about.com)

Ways to prevent Obesity
Properly measuring and balancing your calorie intake and expenditures allows you to modify your lifestyle at a comfortably manageable rate until your modifications become new lifestyle habits. You can include all of your favorite foods as part of a well-balanced calorie-controlled diet. You can engage in any activity you enjoy, no matter how insignificant the amount or intensity—the calorie expenditures all add up. Finally, you can trim down body fat at a safe and comfortable rate, and keep it within an acceptable range. Following the correct numbers gives you the ultimate power and flexibility when managing your weight.

Many of the strategies that produce successful weight loss and maintenance help prevent obesity. Improving eating habits and increasing physical activity play a vital role in preventing obesity. Recommendations for adults include:

1. Eat five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables daily. A vegetable serving is one cup of raw vegetables or one-half cup of cooked vegetables or vegetable juice. A fruit serving is one piece of small to medium fresh fruit, one-half cup of canned or fresh fruit or fruit juice, or one-fourth cup of dried fruit.

2.Choose whole grain foods such as brown rice and whole wheat bread. Avoid highly processed foods made with refined white sugar, flour, and saturated fat.

3.Weigh and measure food in order to be able to gain an understanding of portion sizes. For example, a 3-ounce serving of meat is the size of a deck of cards. Avoid supersized menu items.

4.Balance the food “checkbook.” Taking in more calories than are expended for energy will result in weight gain. Regularly monitor weight.

5.Avoid foods that are high in “energy density,” or that have a lot of calories in a small amount of food. For example, a large cheeseburger with a large order of fries may have almost 1,000 calories and 30 or more grams of fat. By ordering a grilled chicken sandwich or a plain hamburger and a small salad with low-fat dressing, you can avoid hundreds of calories and eliminate much of the fat intake. For dessert, have fruit or a piece of angel food cake rather than the “death by chocolate” special or three pieces of home-made pie.

6. Remember that much may be achieved with proper choices in serving sizes.

7.Accumulate at least 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity activity on most, or preferably all, days of the week. Examples of moderate intensity exercise are walking a 15-minute mile, or weeding and hoeing a garden.
Look for opportunities during the day to perform even ten or 15 minutes of some type of activity, such as walking around the block or up and down a few flights of stairs.

(Information culled from http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/uvahealth/adult_diabetes/obpreven.cfm)

Questions

1. Do I go to the gym? If so, is my workout routine working? Do I do enough exercise?
2. How much do I weigh? Try this test and figure out what your weight should be http://www.halls.md/ideal-weight/body.htm
3. What commitments will I make to myself now to make sure I stay healthy.

Thanks!

ChiChi
MNIA, Inc.
Miss Nigeria in America 2008
Live from Los Angeles, CA

Day 1 – May 15, 2008 (Tour De Cure -Diabetes Race Diary)

I would have started this 30 Days to the Race on Monday but I have been down with a terrible cold and I have not had a chance to do anything!

I have mustered energy and will start my diary today. My name is ChiChi – Executive Director/Founder of MNIA, Inc. - producers of the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. One of our numerous goals include promoting education and to seek global advancement for the Nigerian Woman. We have a very strong mission of “Service and Commitment to our Community and our vision is to “Empower Women through Globalization and Education.”

Having said all that, June 14, 2008, MNIA will ride alongside the Miss Nigeria in America 2007 – Peace Amadi at the 2008 Tour De Cure that will be held at the El Dorado Park in Long Beach, CA and we are preparing for this race.

For the next 30 days, I invite you to join me on my journey as I work out to prepare for this race. I will also share some important information on Diabetes and I hope you all can learn from it. There are questions at the end that I want you to answer to yourself. Ask yourself those questions and get acclimated with Diabetes and other surrounding things. I have provided the website where I got the information from. Please feel free to surf and provide me with feedback. All this information you can read on the Directors Desk at http://www.missnigeriainamerica.org/v2/cont_about_directors.php and also at http://www.nigerianwoman.blogspot.com

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disorder that affects the way your body uses food for energy. Normally, the sugar you take in is digested and broken down to a simple sugar, known as glucose. The glucose then circulates in your blood where it waits to enter cells to be used as fuel. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move the glucose into cells. A healthy pancreas adjusts the amount of insulin based on the level of glucose. But, if you have diabetes, this process breaks down, and blood sugar levels become too high.

There are two main types of full-blown diabetes. People with Type 1 diabetes are completely unable to produce insulin. People with Type 2 diabetes can produce insulin, but their cells don't respond to it. In either case, the glucose can't move into the cells and blood glucose levels can become high. Over time, these high glucose levels can cause serious complications.

Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a completely different disease than Type 2. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease of the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists believe that it may be a virus that triggers the immune system to attack the cells and permanently destroy them. The pancreas can no longer make the insulin necessary to transport sugar from the blood into the other cells of the body for energy. Sugar builds up in the blood and over time can damage internal organs and blood vessels.

Type 2 Diabetes
A person with Type 2 diabetes has adequate insulin, but the cells have become resistant to it. Type 2 usually occurs in adults over 35 years old, but can affect anyone, including children. The National Institutes of Health state that 95 percent of all diabetes cases are Type 2. Why? It's a lifestyle disease, triggered by obesity, a lack of exercise, increased age and to some degree, genetic predisposition.

All information culled from http://diabetes.about.com

Questions

1. Does Diabetes run in my family?
2. If so, what kind of Diabetes does my family member have?
3. Am I fully aware and informed about Diabetes and the type of Diabetes that my family member has?

These questions are intended to help you become more aware about Diabetes and educate about it.

ChiChi
MNIA, Inc.
Miss Nigeria in America 2008
Live from Los Angeles, CA

Diabetes Awareness Week by Peace Amadi - Miss Nigeria in America 2007

Diabetes Awareness Week - St. Raphael School, Los Angeles, CA

I’ve worked at St. Raphael School for almost 3 years now. And as the school counselor, I’ve come to know my students very well. I know how they are doing personally as well as academically. I also know how well (or not well) they are caring for their health. I’ve seen the endless amount of chips and cookies they consume each day and amount of fast foods and fried foods they eat. I’ve heard all of the excuses they use to try and get out of P.E., as if it’s the biggest waste of their time. Consequently, I’ve watched many of them battle weight problems and even become an example of childhood obesity. So when I began thinking about venues for creating awareness around diabetes, St. Raphael School seemed like a perfect choice. After a couple weeks of bouncing around ideas and talking with the school principal and faculty, the 1st-ever Diabetes Awareness Week was set in motion. The Diabetes Week was from Monday, April 28 through Thursday, May 1, 2008.

Monday, April 28th, 2008
This marked the kick-off. When a majority of the students raised their hands in response to the question: “How many of you know somebody who has diabetes?” I knew we were doing a good thing. We introduced Diabetes Awareness Week to the students and encouraged everyone to learn something new. I’d prepared a kid-friendly power-point presentation to teach the kids about diabetes. I wanted them to know what diabetes was, who it affected, and how we could prevent it. I wanted them to walk away understanding the seriousness of the disease, but also feeling empowered that they could so something about it. In teaching the kids about diabetes, I realized one thing. Kids are motivated to learn about “real life.” As the teachers and I shared our personal experiences with diabetes, the students began to open up and share theirs as well. One 4th-grad girl shared that three of her family members had diabetes and that she was scared of what would happen to them. As I comforted her and encouraged her to share what she was learning with her family members, I watched the other students grow even more attentive than they’d been earlier. It was clear they were eager to learn.

Tuesday, April 29th, 2008
Tuesday’s theme was “Eating Healthy.” The goal was to emphasize the effect our eating habits have on our health. I had the students create a “Food Diary” where they listed the foods they had eaten in the past week and were asked to evaluate them according to the U.S. National Heart, Blood, & Lung Institute “Go, Slow, & Whoa” Chart – a chart that tells us how often we should eat certain types of food based on how good they are for us. One 8th-grade student ran up to me during break time and shared her concerns: “Ms. Amadi, I had to circle ‘whoa’ on most of my foods,” she said. “I didn’t know I ate so badly.” I assured her that a lot of students were probably feeling that way and that she should use this as an opportunity to develop better eating habits. I also told her how proud I was of her for being honest with herself. It’s often that brutal honesty with ourselves, that ability to look inward, that is the beginning of change.

Wednesday, April 30th, 2008/Thursday, May 1, 2008
These days went as planned as we talked about the importance of staying active and played “Diabetes Jeopardy” to test the student’s new knowledge. Sure, not every one was ready to go be a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association, mixing up terms like “insulin” for “glucose” and “high blood sugar” for “high blood pressure.” But it was clear that everybody had learned something. “I learned that if you don’t eat fruits and vegetables, you’ll get sick,” one 1st-grader told me. “And you’ll have to go to the hospital,” another chimed in, “and you might die!” Wow, I thought to myself. Enough said!

All in all, I was really proud of the way the students engaged themselves during the week. And to my satisfaction, some students and teachers have already asked me about doing this again next year! By doing this, I was reminded that in thinking about how we can “change the world,” we don’t we have to look very far. We are always in some sort of a position to positively impact the people the around us. I’m glad to have started something new at St Raphael’s, something that I know will continue to be of value to the students and faculty. And yes, I will be doing this again next year!

The next major Diabetes Awareness Program is the Tour De Cure Bicycle Race that will be held in Long Beach, CA on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at El Dorado Park. We are Team Nigeria and I will be spearheading this race to continue to raise awareness for Diabetes among Nigerians and Nigerians in the Diaspora. Please continue to check back for more updates and be sure to log on to www.missnigeriainamerica.orgfor more information on MNIA, Inc.

With love,
Peace Amadi
Miss Nigeria in America 2007

To book the Miss Nigeria in America 2007 for an appearance or event, please email Chioma Dike (Publicist) at chio_di@missnigeriainamerica.org or call 310.926.2316

Homelessness By Peace Amadi - Miss Nigeria in America 2007

He stood there...

...on the corner of Adams and Crenshaw – one of the busiest intersections in South Los Angeles – and still nobody saw him. I don’t know why I did. He stood there calm, still, steady… like…like a Los Angeles prop. He had no sign, no cart, no special tricks, or any other bells or whistles. Just a small white cup. A small white cup which he held amazingly still…As if he knew no amount of shaking or juggling would penetrate the passerby. He was probably right.

Maybe it was his eyes. Maybe it was his big burly arms and round tummy. Maybe it was the way the sunlight pierced through his white cup. All I know is that I couldn't take my eyes off of him. About another half-a-mile down the street, I convinced my friend to turn around. I wanted to talk to him. My friend and I took Jerome into a nearby McDonald’s and bought him everything he wanted...a “Quarter Pounder”. We convinced him we could afford more. He asked for some fries.

It’s funny how one person’s story could change you. How since then, I’ve prayed for Jerome almost every time I eat. How since then I’ve frequented the famous cross-section to see who else is there. How since then, I’ve found it incredibly difficult to just walk on by. Walk on by… We’re so good at that aren’t we? It can be easier not to care. Or better yet, to blame. “He’s homeless because he’s on drugs” “She’s homeless because she’s on crack.” “He’s lazy,” “He’s a drop-out,” “He’ll spend the money on booze” But have you ever sat down and listened to a homeless person’s story? While some of these things may be the case, the truth is something got them there.

Job loss, home loss, abandonment, living in the streets, rejection, loneliness, and the resulting substance abuse and addiction…Jerome had been through it all. And trying to get his life back was no easy task. I mean, who wants to hire a homeless, recovering drug-addict? All the desire in the world, yet no opportunity. His story, devastating as it was, was typical. It was a story shared by millions of people nation-wide. It was a story of homelessness in America.

The Homeless in America

Jerome is one of 3.5 million homeless persons in the U.S. And on any given night, he joins 750,000 other people who are forced to live in the streets or share very close quarters with each other in temporary, emergency shelters. An alarming 50% of these people are families with children. A large majority of these families have children under the age of 6. 71% of homeless people live in central cities with Los Angeles, New York City, Detroit, and Houston leading the ranks. And while 46% of homeless people report chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer, another 22% have serious mental illnesses and/or disabilities. Most have little to no access to medical health care or mental health services.

Jerome is not alone. But this time it is not a good thing. Thankfully, there are people doing something about it.

People Assisting The Homeless (PATH) Homeless Shelter

The PATH Homeless Shelter has set a national standard for responding to the needs of homeless people . It’s a transitional housing facility that is also home to the PATHMall, where homeless people can literally “shop” for services including health care, substance abuse counseling, a job center, mental health services, legal advocacy, and even a beauty salon! I love, love, love, the fact that PATH is not only providing homeless people with a variety of services to help them get back on their feet, they are also equipping them with the tools to regain a sense of self-sufficiency and finally break the cycle of homelessness in their lives.
PathMALL - the one-stop shop. Here, homeless people can literally “shop” for services including health care, substance abuse counseling, a job center, mental health services, legal advocacy, and even a beauty salon.

For more information about PATH, please log on to www.epath.org

MNIA, Inc. will continue to support PATH in achieving their mission which is "To break the cycle of homelessness by empowering homeless people with the tools for self-sufficiency." Having raised over $1000.00 to cook, serve and give love to PATH residents, MNIA, Inc. continues to serve fellow non-profits in the community by teaching Nigerian women and women in general on the positive effects of being of service to the communities that we all serve.

For more information on the programs that MNIA and the current Miss Nigeria in America 2007 is involved with, please log on to www.missnigeriainamerica.org

From the desk of:
Peace Amadi - Miss Nigeria in America 2007 and MNIA, Inc., Beverly Hills, CA

Peace Amadi -Miss Nigeria in America 2007 on trendyafrica.com

Peace Amadi - Miss Nigeria in America 2007 is featured in the current issue of Trendy Africa Online Magazine.

Click HERE for more details.

Trendy Africa is an online community set to take you through an exploratory journey which ultimately would capture the hidden treasures of a beautiful continent - Africa.

Thanks Trendy Africa!

To book the Miss Nigeria in America 2007 or to feature her in your magazine, please contact Chioma Dike (Publicist) at chio_di@missnigeriainamerica.org or call 310.926.2316

MNIA, Inc.

It's that time of the year again...

The Search is on for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America!!

Do you have what it takes to be the next Miss Nigeria in America.. Do you have PASSION for others? Are you committed to your community? Can you be a voice for Nigeria? Can you be an ambassador for women?

If you answer yes to all these, then read on....

THE 2008 MISS NIGERIA IN AMERICA BEAUTY PAGEANT DELEGATE APPLICATION

You may apply to be a delegate for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant by completing and submitting the online application and the $25.00 application fee.

Please note the following eligibility requirements must be met in order to proceed with the application process.
*Must be at least 18 years of age and under 25 years of age by August 30, 2008
*Must be in college, college bound or have graduated from college.
*Must be of Nigerian Descent (Either parent or both must be Nigerian).
*Must not be married, never have been married, and never have had a marriage annulled. Must never have given birth to a child, can not be pregnant or be a parent.
*Must be of good health and moral character.
*Must be a naturally born female, and must reside in the United States of America.
*Must agree, that if selected to compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant, they will abide by all the rules and regulations governing that pageant.

The 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant would be held in Los Angeles, California from August 27 – August 30, 2008.

VIDEO APPLICATION

You can submit your YOUTUBE LINK via the online application or mail a copy to:
MNIA, Inc.
9107 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 450
Beverly Hills, CA
90210

Applications MUST be accompanied by a video and must meet the following requirements:

1. LENGTH: MAXIMUM OF THREE MINUTES anything over three minutes will not be considered.
2. FORMAT: A DVD or a Mini DV. Please write your name on your item when you submit.
3. CONTENT: Who are you, and why you should be selected to compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. Be Creative!

The video will be become the property of the Producers and will not be returned to you, whether or not you are selected as a delegate.

GENERAL RULES

To be considered for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant, you must complete the application form in detail and pay the $25.00 application fee. The deadline to apply for the pageant is JUNE 15, 2008.
You must submit the 3 minute video labeled clearly with your name and application number that you receive when you apply for the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. Please remember, you can submit your YouTube video via the online application.
All applications will be reviewed and processed and applicants would go through a scheduled phone interview.
Final delegates who would compete in the 2008 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant will be notified on or before July 6, 2008.

MNIA, Inc.
Beverly Hills, CA

Diabetes and You ! - Week One

When I sat back and actually thought to myself, “when was the last time I went to see a doctor for a physical, sparking a chance to be tested for diabetes?” Like myself, I’m sure many of you can testify to that uneasy feeling you get when it comes to doctors, hospitals, needles and things of that nature. Sometimes even when we know there’s a problem, we still choose not to go. But the more I think about it, the more I realize that it’s silly, not to mention detrimental to let this uneasy feeling stop us from getting checked-out for abnormalities in our system. We put all sorts of unnatural things into our bodies (junk food, processed food, sodas, etc.), and place all sorts of strain on our bodies, and expect that everything will be normal. But as we neglect our bodies, the less we remember to get “checked-out”. As this occurs, the more we can expect the little problems to turn into big dilemmas and before we know, we’re spending big bucks on treatments, medications and hospital visits on conditions that would not have existed had we taken time for early detection and prevention all together.

Out of the 20.8 million people in the U.S. who have diabetes, almost 1/3 of them don’t know it! A level of concern is raised when the majority of this figure are of African descent. But one cannot fix what on does not know. That is why its important for us to be attentive to our bodies and health. Chances are nothing may be wrong, but if there is something wrong, it’s better to know now and make a plan to heal than to continue to unknowingly worsen your situation until its too late.

My people please take this quick test: http://www.diabetes.org/risk-test.jsp and get a feel for your risk of developing diabetes. This literally took me 10 seconds to do. And if you find you are at a moderate to high risk of developing diabetes, please make an appointment to be tested for diabetes or pre-diabetes (a condition in which blood-sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to qualify for full-blown diabetes).This is a quick test that you can do during your next annual physical And for those of you at a low risk of developing diabetes, don’t take advantage of your health. Be good to your body and get your regular check-ups. Remember, doctors are our friends, but we must first be concerned about our bodies and our health before anyone else can be. It’s your body and temple.

Diabetes is a silent killer. Don’t let it sneak up on you.

With love,
Ms. Peace Amadi
Miss Nigeria in America 2007

Diabetes.................... the Silent Killer!

Four months ago, we lost a valuable member of Nigerian community and close friend of my family. While the world hung bright lights, exchanged gifts, and sung Christmas carols, we gathered around the grieving wife and children, offering our condolences, sobered by the untimely death of a strong, otherwise-healthy, young man. Diabetes. Another couple weeks later, I’d called a friend to check on her, only to find out that her dad had spent some quality holiday time in the hospital battling a myriad of serious disease complications. Diabetes. Two weeks ago, I’d learned that a friend had lost yet another relative who lived in Nigeria . His health had been deteriorating for quite some time, but nobody knew what the problem was. It was not until he died that doctors found what killed him. Diabetes.

In a very short period of time, I’ve gained a sense of the impending danger that more and more Nigerians will find themselves in if people continue to ignore this problem. As Nigerians, we take pride in our beauty, strength, and ability to overcome any obstacle that comes our way…and deservingly so! I too, find a voice in me that can admit no failure, no weakness, and no acceptance of anything but the best. But too often time, we hide a little ways from the stark reality: we are not invincible. And we cannot continue to ignore the warning signs of diseases familiar to our people, or discount the responsibility we have to educate ourselves and take care of our bodies, and expect to leave unscathed.

Diabetes Stats:-
-Over 143 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes.
-In the U.S. nearly 1 in 10 American adults (about 20.8 million people) have diabetes. Yet, almost 1/3 of them don’t know it!
-Of the African countries, Nigeria has the largest population of people living with diabetes with an estimated 1.5 million.
-African-Americans are more likely than any other ethnic group to develop Type 2 diabetes. This includes all Africans living in America .
-Diabetes is the 5th leading cause of death by disease in the U.S. and a major leading cause of death worldwide. It is indeed a chronic disease with currently no cure.

As you read the stats, one cannot help but think one thing: “No, not another one. Not another disease killing off our people.” That’s why as the Miss Nigeria in America 2007, I have decided to do something about it.

Riding for the Cure
On Saturday, June 14th, 2008, Miss Nigeria in America 2007 alongside MNIA, Inc.and supporters will ride the “Tour de Cure” as a symbol of our commitment to this campaign. The “Tour de Cure” is a 15-mile, bicycling event taking place in Long Beach , California.
It’s an American Diabetes Association sponsored event for all those who care to take a stand against diabetes and support the mission: “to prevent, treat, and cure diabetes.”
I will ride to support the efforts of the American Diabetes Association.
Every mile I ride, every dollar I raise will go towards diabetes research.
I will ride to create an awareness around diabetes in the African community, and specifically in the Nigerian community.
I will ride because I believe that if we rally around this cause – educating ourselves about ways to prevent and control diabetes - we will eradicate the disabling affect of diabetes on our community and the community at large.
I will ride for my country - Nigeria.

Will you ride for yours? In the upcoming weeks, I invite you to follow me as I prepare for this race. I will have write-ups concerning diabetes
For more information about Diabetes, please visit

Sincerely Yours,

Peace Amadi
Miss Nigeria in America 2007

Miss Nigeria in America Delegates!!!

When we started the Miss Nigeria in America Pageant, it was our intention to promote awareness about the Nigerian Culture and also create female ambassadors that will forge on a new Nigeria. One of our objective, "Identifying Nigerian women in the US who exemplify beauty, talent, supremacy and intelligence and aim to create new role models who through the beauty pageant will serve as ambassadors that will define a new Nigeria, enrich the beauty of the Nigerian Woman and enhance a new strength, energy and spirit for the advancement of women," is what we live by!!

We smile every time we get an email from former delegates on their new initiatives and achievements.. We smile every time the Miss Nigeria America 2004, 2006 and 2007 email us with new things they want to accomplish. When we feel overwhelmed, it is these emails that uplift us. So in retrospect, we say: Thank you all for supporting us, thank you for taking the extra step in helping the less fortunate, thank you for your commitment to mankind and a big thank you for believing in us. You do us proud and we commend you.

Below is a partial list of our winners and delegates who continue to make us proud:

Winners
Peace Amadi - Miss Nigeria in America 2007 - Project Whole with [Arrows of God Orphanage, Lagos Nigeria]
Leslie Ibeanusi - Miss Nigeria in America 2004/2005 - Making Noise, Inc.www.livethenoise.org

Delegates
Martha Nwosu - Miss Ekiti 2007 - Selected delegate to UN to meet up with representatives from some of the most undeveloped countries in Africa, which include Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Gambia, Togo, & Senegal, and will spearhead her platform which creates awareness for Autism in Nigeria.
Eunice Omole - Miss Abia 2007 -The Apprentice Africa
www.theapprenticeafrica.com/c_eunice.php
Chioma Dike - Miss Bauchi 2007 CEO/Founder CDEMM - An Arts and Diplomacy Group
Yvonne Orji - Miss Taraba 2006 - Successful Comedian www.myspace.com/yvonneorji
Mfonobong Essiet - Miss Abia 2004 - She is the current Miss Africa USA www.missafricaunitedstates.com
Peace Udechukwu - Miss Oyo 2004/Ruby Udeh - Miss Osun 2004/
Amara Udeh- Miss Yobe 2004 - They own A.N.G.E.L.S
Assisting Nigerian Girls in Education, Leadership and Sisterhood
This is a non-profit organization striving to better educate young woman in Nigeria. We aim to promote and enhance the educational morale of woman by providing financial assistance and leadership skills.
Zainab Agoro - Miss Enugu 2004 Recording Artist www.myspace.com/mszaina

Like we mentioned, this is just a partial list. We will keep you informed of new initiatives that these delegates come up with.

Thank you once again for your support and watch out for great things from the Miss Nigeria in America Organization!

Kenneth Emeson/ChiChi Dike
MNIA, Inc.
Beverly Hills, CA
www.missnigeriainamerica.org

Keep Breathing - By Martha Nwosu -Miss Ekiti 2007

This month, we introduce Martha Nwosu - Miss Ekiti 2007 who emerged the 1st Runner up in the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. Martha writes inspirational poetry and her work will be featured continuosly on the blog. Read Martha's biography in her own words and enjoy her first poem - Keep Breathing

Born on May 15, 1987, second of twin girls having arrived six minutes later, I still share an equal leadership role as the oldest child in my family of six children. I currently attend St. John’s University in New York, New York where I am majoring in psychology with a minor in sociology. In addition to studying the mind and society, I am an ardent lover of music from all diverse walks of life, a leader in many others, and a staunch advocate for children with special needs. I am a people’s person, skillful and multi- talented. I am also gifted with a strong call to acceptance and loyalty along with a sense of renewal of reaching out to others for peaceful co-existence and restoring or furthering unification. I am currently part of four multi-cultural organizations at my university, two of which I hold executive positions.
As a member of Pan- African Caribbean Students Association (PACSA), I am the executive secretary and I maintain membership in the Latin American Students Organization (L.A.S.O.). I hosted a fashion show called, “Fashions Around the World” in November 2006. Although I held the title of event coordinator, my strength was expanded with my fellow leaders on the executive board as we worked side by side. I was blessed to perform at numerous campus events with the Magnificat Gospel Choir of the Staten Island Campus of St. Johns University, which included the Opening year Mass, The Women’s History Month Dedication mass, and I was chosen to perform the National Anthem at the 2007 Commencement Ceremony at St. John’s University Staten Island Campus. In addition to my vocal talents, I also tutored young children at a halfway house under an organization called Project Hospitality on Thursdays from October to December 2006.
As an advocate for children with special needs, I dedicate my mind to thoughts on how to make the world a better place, starting with my country Nigeria. Now as I see it, there is a curiosity and a level of interest on the part of a lot of people who are my age to make a difference in our country, Nigeria. I stand strong and tall today with a positive disposition toward the cause of children with special needs. The blessing of a tight-knit family has provided me with a strong support network enabling me to focus on advocating for their rights-equality of opportunity for children with and without disabilities with strong emphasis on advancing the cause of children with special needs. My dedication and perseverance are my major motivators for goals I aspire to reach personally and socially.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us”. Of course, in order for the quote to fully manifest itself within my life, I would need to find myself. I know who I am; a voice for the voiceless. For me this would become the most rewarding task I would ever encounter. In the early stages my life, I chose to take the back seat while my twin sister took the spotlight. As years went on, I began to evolve with my own identity, which would later establish an equally balanced bond between my sister and me. Now I am a young lady growing into a beautiful woman, I am allowing my identity and achievements as a twin to expand and evolve into a foundation for my strength, grace, and beauty.

Keep Breathing by Martha Nwosu - Miss Ekiti 2007

Inhale, exhale
Take in, let out
A breath of fresh air that has been trapped in your lungs for the longest time
Passage ways freely flowing with pain and guilt and aguish all at once
Still balanced by freedom and happiness and pride of knowing
That YOU did it
You spoke up for yourself
You stood strong for who you are
Because you love
Love a lot
Love to little
Love a bit more
Love just enough
To say NO
Not this time
Not again
Not back here where we always are and end up being
I want more
I want a life of no repetition
A life free of sameness and indifference
A life with you who I know and appreciate
A life with us
A life with love and patience and kindness and truth
All wrapped in with the calmness in Knowing we did it
We grew past our problems and issues
Nothing can break us now
Because we tried something different and we love it
I love it
I love me for finding that strength in myself to be aware of what i need to do
I had to do it
I needed to do it
I must do it
Because in doing it
I am breathing
I can breathe
I keep breathing and in that I am Living
I am speaking
I am growing
I am Me
I am WHAT I am
Who I am
So for all these reasons, I keep breathing
Inhale & Exhale

By Martha Nwosu - Miss Ekiti 2007

MNIA Feed the Homeless Part II

MNIA Feed the Homeless- Part II is the 2nd phase of our new initiative that supports and extends hope and love to homeless shelters accross the United States of America. We plan on making this one of our new programs as this supports our new mission and objective of "Service and Commitment to our community."

Thus we, 'MNIA, Inc.' will align ourselves with People Assisting the Homeless [PATH] in Los Angeles, CA to help bring hope and spread love to the residents at these homes. On November 22, 2007 [Thanksgiving Day], MNIA, Inc., Peace Amadi - 2007 Miss Nigeria in America as well as friends and supporters of MNIA raised funds, cooked dinner and served the residents of PATH Westside Center. This was the most humbling experience for all of us.

See Pictures

MNIA will raise funds again to support this cause and will cook a special Easter Dinner on Saturday, March 22, 2008 at the PATH Regional Homeless Shelter at 340 N. Madison Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90004. We are also raising funds to donate to thier wish list of the following:
1. Wet and Dry Shop Vacuum
2. Electric Coffee Bean Grinder
3. Silver Ware
4. Dinner Plates
5. Cutting Boards
6. Toys for the kids
7. Serving Aprons to mention a few

We will need your support to raise money to purchase these items as well as food supplies to cook and bring love to the residents.
Miss Nigeria in America 2007 - Peace Amadi will be there also to speak to the residents to lift thier spirits and to spread love. To help raise the necessary funds for this cause, CLICK HERE We are asking for a $5.00 donation from everyone and we hope to get the much needed funds to help PATH attain thier goals and objectives. For more information about PATH please log on to www.epath.org
Thank you for all your love and support
ChiChi Dike
Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.

Strength and Loyalty

Greetings all,

Its a New Year and as you have read in our past writings, "A New Beginning," MNIA, Inc. has so many great things to offer this year. We are set to hire Program Managers to help execute our vision to make MNIA, Inc. very strong. In the coming weeks, we will feature some of the inspirational writings of the 2007 Delegates. We will also let you into the Project Plan for 2008, and the great events MNIA plans to have this year.

I will return to writing in Director's Desk as I have received so many of your emails asking for more. I am also working on setting up an awareness campaign that encourages people who dropped out of College for any reason to find the strength to go back in and complete their education. My tag line is "There is still a chance.. Finish up! Education is Strength! If you are reading this and you dropped out of college for any reason, please find the strength to go back in and finish.. If you have a friend or know anyone who dropped out and is battling the decision to go back to school, say a prayer for him/her and encourage them to finish. Look out for more information on this awareness campaign.

God Bless

ChiChi Dike
Founder/Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.
"Service and Commitment to our Community"

Happy New Year and many more from MNIA, Inc.

Happy New Year! We are so blessed to be going into this year with all of God's blessings on our organization. We promise to bring you so much more this year! MNIA, Inc. will partner with Africare to support the WISE PROJECT. ChiChi Dike - Executive Director of MNIA, Inc. will spearhead this initiative in Abuja, Nigeria to bring hope, love and support to the project.

2008 marks the 4th year of MNIA, Inc. and the Miss Nigeria in America Pageant. We hope to strengthen the goals and mission of the organization.

We started with Ms. Leslie Oluchi Ibeanusi who was the inaugural Miss Nigeria in America. She set very high standards for her successors and she continues to lend her support to her community. Leslie is currently studying medicine at St. Matthew's University in Cayman Islands. Ms. Alimatu Garuba succeeded Leslie in 2006 and is also studying medicine at the American University in Antigua. Ms. Peace Amadi, the reigning queen, is currently pursuing her doctorate in the field of psychology (Psy.D) at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California.


We also hope to guide the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America in achieving her goal and platform that she will embark on during her reign. We intend to equip her and all the future queens on the strong mission and vision of MNIA which is "sacrifice and commitment to our community."

Thank you all again for your support over the years and we look forward to a new year!

ChiChi Dike
Founder/Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.