The Nigerian Woman

And we are back

2012-01-12T01:19:00.000-08:00

I went on a 2 year hiatus, partially because I was pregnant and had a kid and because I wanted to clear my head and revamp MNIA and bring it back to the vision that I had in mind.. We have restructured and here is the new website MNIAWEB

Check back in the next couple of days as we bring you more news and updates

Rebranding Nigeria

2010-06-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

What is the importance of rebranding a country in today’s world?
Branding a country depends heavily on positive image which in turn assists in the marketing of its products. What is image? Image is a value judgment or an idea of a target audience about a specific nation, country, product or subject (Aydogan, 2004). It is also how publicity registers in their minds. The perception process includes beliefs, impressions and ideas that shape the thoughts of an individual. Image is the meanings that registers in the mind and that are told, heard and remembered. It is imperative for a country to create and maintain a positive image because consumers will associate positivity to it whenever it is mentioned, but if the country has a negative image; it causes great damage and affects that country negatively.

People develop an image of certain countries based the things that they learn in school, fairytales, children’s books, literature, theatre, acquaintances, friends, accounts by relatives, radio, television, international and cultural exchange programs, magazines, newspapers, and sports (Aydogan, 2004). In an attempt to rebrand Nigeria, factors such as geographical locations, economy, history, touristic and cultural values has to be taken into consideration. Nigeria needs to be rebranded because the negative image of the country has tremendous influence on tourism, trade, and the inward investments of the country. The image of Nigeria determines the reputation, picture, and the stereotype that consumers and businessmen attach to the products from the country. It is a sum of all the informational, descriptive, and inferential beliefs that people have about the country. In order for Nigeria to improve its brand value and sustainability, the following has to be done:
• Creating an effective working group
• Analyzing the existent situation of the country
• Modifying the country’s brand value
• Choosing effective communication tools
• Determining what contributes to the brand value of the country

Creating an effective working group
Private Sector
• Opinion leaders in economic and social-cultural areas such as universities, professional organizations, arts, sports, exchange market, trade unions and the Chamber of commerce.
Government
• Local governments, ministries, and political groups

Analyzing the existent situation of the country
• Coherence between the current situation and aimed results
• Corporate images in Nigeria
• The international image of the country

Modifying the brand value of Nigeria
• Qualities of the products from the country
• Country image
• Promotional policy
• Awareness and promotion rate
• Preference rate of the country’s products at an international level
• Basic properties that comes to mind when Nigeria is mentioned for example, the association between the country’s products and its image

Choosing effective communication tools
Mass media
• Cinema
• Internet
• Television
Basic tools
• Attractive/ catchy slogan
• Nigeria’s symbol
Properties of the country
• Political
• Scientific
• Cultural
• Economic
Factors that contributes to brand value
Citizens
• Faith, trust, enrichment, social improvement, and productivity
On behalf of the country in the international arena
• Increase in export
• Credibility
• Trading advantage
• Improvement in tourism
• Leadership in solving problems at the international level

In order for Nigeria to be rebranded or to develop a positive image, an effective working group, which consists of public and private opinion, has to be developed. With full authority and a substantial knowledge of how Nigeria is portrayed in the international area, the group has to analyze the internal and external existent image/ perception of the country and develop ideas that will attract the main target such as investors (DRG, 2007). Also the values and true facts of Nigeria have to be analyzed. Rebranding Nigeria will be a long term effort and has to start with the comparative advantage of the country. Details that need to be considered are the weak and strong properties of the country; its market size, skilled labor, tax, incentives, trust, industrial groups, zonal trades, and competitive advantages. The existing situation, perceptions and images of the chosen sectors for the rebranding of the country must be identified. Marketing strategies has to be determined and implemented; the coherence between constituted and the existing situation has to be examined. The developments and changes around the world need to be followed closely. Attractive symbols, slogans, visual images and charming websites should be designed.

Bibliography
Aydogan, F. (2004). To Develop Country Image and National Brand Strategy To Attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDI): An Example From Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan. Retrieved on June 9, 2010, from http://www.bledcom.com/uploads/papers/Tunca.pdf

Discernment Research Group (DRG). (2007). Re-Branding Global Mission. Retrieved on June 9, 2010, from http://herescope.blogspot.com/2007/05/re-branding-global-mission.html

Project Women Education

2010-05-31T20:29:00.000-07:00

Project Women’s Education (WE) focuses on the advancement [Social, Financial, and Sustainability] of the Nigerian woman through education. The project aims to assist women in rural villages and cities with funds to cover educational costs. This will empower them through life’s struggles to forge on forward to attain the highest level of education with appropriate assistance. Project WE aim to equip and empower Nigerian women with the tools and confidence needed to persevere despite their circumstances.

The program aims at achieving the following:

Provision of scholarships for the less fortunate women in Nigeria
Assist in providing school uniforms for deserving primary/secondary school girls.
Promotion of women’s teacher training programs
Provide non-formal educational programs for adult women
Initiation of a campaign to encourage parents in remote areas to send their daughters to school.

Your assistance in making the objectives of "Project Women Education" will be greatly appreciated. I will be traveling to Nigeria to execute the project and also to do other humanitarian activities. Donations that comprises of computers, and school supplies can be accepted by the Africa America Crisis Assistance Network organization. Monetary donations will be a plus. The non-profit organization has a 501(c)3 status and all donations are tax exempt. Please feel free to call 7709746695 for more information.

Facts about HIV/AIDS

2010-04-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which progresses into AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a deadly condition that gradually decreases the effectiveness of the immune system and increases the susceptibility of the infected individual to opportunistic tumors and infections. It is transmitted through direct contact of a mucous membrane or the blood stream with a bodily fluid containing HIV such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk. HIV/AIDS is a pandemic and its awareness needs to be raised in every country in the world especially in the continent of Africa.

According to the World Health Organization, 34.3 million people in the world have the HIV/AIDS virus; 24.5 million of them are in sub-Sahara Africa. Nearly 19 million people have died from AIDS; 3.8 million of them are children under the age of 15. There were 5.4 million new HIV/AIDS cases in 1999, 4 million of them were in Africa; 2.8 million people died from the disease in 1999; 2.4 million of the cases were in Africa; 13.2 million children became orphans because of AIDS; 12.1 million of them were in sub-Saharan Africa. The life expectancy in Africa decreased from 59 years to 45 years from 2005 to 2010 and in Zimbabwe from 61 years to 33 years. More than 500,000 babies were infected in 1999 by their mothers and most of them were in Africa. South Africa is the number 1 country infected with HIV/AIDS, followed by Nigeria and India. The deaths in Africa caused by the disease has retarded the economic growth and destroyed the human capital in the continent (WHO, 2010).

I truly believe that education is the key when it comes to eradicating HIV/AIDS because although the mortality and morbidity rates of HIV infection can be reduced significantly by the use of antiretroviral medication, they are expensive and routine access to the drugs are not available in all countries. If individuals can be educated on ways to prevent the infection, that would be the key in controlling the HIV/AIDS pandemic. People can be taught different methods of safe sex and the importance of utilizing sterilized needles. One of my main objectives for “Project Women Education” is to educate women on how to practice abstinence and to empower them in convincing their partners to utilize condoms and practice safe sex.

Bibliography
World Health Organization (WHO). (2010). HIV/AIDS. Retrieved on April 24, 2010 from http://www.who.int/hiv/en/

Black History Month

2010-03-01T20:53:00.000-08:00

The main reason for the celebration of black history month is for America to acknowledge its past. Black history requires the reflection of all Americans. The event that surrounds black history has to be appreciated and the time and places in which they occurred must be considered to be meaningful. In every nation, there are usually times of troubles and turmoil which contributes to its evolution towards civilization. This is an exact example of the formation and growth of the United States. In order for America to get to its present state, it had to pass through its darkest times to become victorious and glorious. Black history month is meant to dissect the events in the nation’s past. It is to examine why certain things occurred and how much it has influenced our society today.
For black history month, I went to Arabian Mountain High School in Atlanta, GA. The school is fairly new with less than 500 students. It is located in a rural area with its population comprising mainly of individuals from low socio-economic background. It is also located in a county which has a very high crime rate in Georgia. I had a good time at Arabian Mountain High School. There were several performances of the events that happened during the civil rights movement. Students from other neighboring high schools in Atlanta came to the event to recite their favorite poems or literature written by famous African American authors. There were professional actors and actresses who portrayed Frederick Douglas and Harriet Tubman. My best moment besides giving a speech to the teenagers, was meeting the great, great grand-daughter of Frederick Douglas.
How was your Black History Month?

Life is too short. Learn your lesson

2010-01-31T19:53:00.000-08:00

When in doubt, take things easy

Life is still good even if it is not always fair

Stop hating people

Stay in touch with your friends and family. They'll take care of you when you're sick, not your job

Pay your credit card bills each month

Agree to disagree. You cannot win every arguement

Crying with someone is more healing than crying alone

God can take anger. It is alright to be angry with him

Form the habit of saving for retirement

Resistance is futile when it comes to chocolate

Any questions?

Claret Onukogu (Miss Nigeria In America) Receives An "Outstanding Nigerian Award" From The World Ebony Network

2009-12-31T09:24:00.000-08:00

On December 12, 2009, at Howard University (Washington DC), during the launching of the book “Nigerians in Diaspora, USA (Fact Book) Volume 1”, which was written by Nollywood actor, King Joseph Okechukwu, an award ceremony was held for the individuals whose names were included in the book. I was fortunate to be one of the recipients of the award titled “Outstanding Nigerian Award.” The event was organized by the World Ebony Network and supported by the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Information and Communications and the House Committee on Diaspora. The order of the book launching/ Fundraiser/ Award Ceremony went as follows:

An introduction of the book by Ezi Mecha (World Ebony Network) and King Joseph Okechukwu
Recital of the United States and Nigerian National Anthem
Opening Remarks- (Nigerian and Washington DC dignitaries)
Introduction of the hosts of the event, JC and Prince Dajour (Washington DC Radio Personalities)
Address from the Nigeria Embassy Representative (Honorable Chukwukeme)
Performances by an African dance group (Farafina), Wale (Hollywood rapper), Yvee (Comedian), Bende War Dance, Reverend Vernon Burch, Koleurz, B-Clay
Vote of Thanks by Ezi Mecha and King Joseph Okechukwu

The awards were given to the recipients in the following order:

Science and Technology
Philip Emeagwali

Business
Kase Lawal

Automobile Design
Jelani Aliyu

Government
Kyrian Nwagwu

Medicine
Dr. Nelson Oyesiku
Dr. Abdulkadir Sarki
Dr. Julius Kpaduwa

Accounting
Taiwo Pedro

Sports
Victoria Farley-Bradford A.K.A. Oluchi Ogwo
Hakeem Abdul Olajuwon

Art (Music)
Abiodun Koya

Art (Movies)
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Rasak Adoti

Art (Beauty)
Claret Onukogu (Miss Nigeria In America 2009)

Security
Sylvester Okere

Mobile Clinic
Anu Esuola

Religion
Pastor E.A. Adeboye
Pastor Foluke Adeboye
James Oladipo Fadele
Pastor Bayo and Margaret Adeyokunu

I am very elated and honored to have been recognized as an “Outstanding Nigerian.” Special thanks to the World Ebony Network and King Joseph Okechukwu for contributing in making me a part of history.

In addition to receiving my award at the end of this year, I was also very fortunate to present the proposal for Project Women Education to the Margaret McNamara Scholarship Fund Committee at the World Bank in Washington DC. I also got the opportunity to meet with the assistant to the Secretary General of the United Nations at the head quarters in New York to discuss the details about the project with him. Hopefully, 2010 will come with abundant blessings for everyone. Amen.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

My Thanksgiving Weekend Part II

2009-11-30T15:35:00.000-08:00

November 29th, 2009

I visited the Cobb and Douglas County Community Services Board at Austell, Georgia to assist the staff of the organization in sorting various canned and boxed goods so that they could be handed to the different individuals with developmental disorders and also those who suffer from substance abuse. The target groups were people in the First Step Program, Supported Employment, Outpatient, Residential, and the Developmental Disability Services of the organization. I had the opportunity to reconnect with Mary Robeck who is the Volunteer Coordinator at CSB. I was impressed with the turn out of the event.

The volunteers varied from middle, high school and college students to the boy and girl scouts. There were also few adults who are regular volunteers at CSB. They were very welcoming when I arrived at the center especially when they realized that I am the Miss Nigeria in America 2009. Mary Robeck introduced me to the staff members and the photography team. After a short session of taking pictures, we had a 15 minutes orientation where Ms. Robeck gave the volunteers a brief summary of the activities for the day. When we walked into the two rooms that contained the volunteer food items, they were filled with food. We had to sort the items based on the kinds of food and their dates. We also box them according to the groups that would receive them. For example, the cans and boxes were grouped according to fruits, vegetables, pasta, soups, desserts and miscellaneous items. After several hours of sorting and packaging food items, we finally completed our activities.

I decided to assist other volunteers in coloring drawings for the season so that they could be handed to the patients. The event was exciting because I know that I have impacted someone’s life with my kind gestures. To further expand the kindness this holiday, on November 28th 2009, I sorted donated winter cloths that were donated by various individuals to Africa America Crisis Assistance Network. My family also spent several hours with me trying to ensure that the work was done properly so that the clothes can be donated to the less fortunate individuals who will need them this holiday.

CLARET ONUKOGU (MISS NIGERIA IN AMERICA 2009)

Thanksgiving Volunteer Activity 2009

2009-11-28T21:50:00.000-08:00

Since I was not able to travel to Los Angeles, California to assist the MNIA Team with the “PATH Feed the Homeless” event that was organized and implemented on November 28th, 2009, I volunteered for a similar event hosted by the Cobb and Douglas County Community Services Board (CSB) in Atlanta, Georgia. The organization provides developmental disability, substance abuse and mental health services to Cobb, Douglas and Cherokee county residents. Every year, The Community Services Board serves more than 14,000 residents in Georgia (www.cobbcsb.com, 2009). The Cobb and Douglas County Board of Directors oversee, govern, guides and plans the daily operations of the organization. The CBS programs are funded and supported by donations, self-pay collections, fundraising, Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance, grants and the Georgia Department of Human Resources.

The organization has an access center that operates 5 days a week and is readily accessible to the residents of Cobb and Douglas Counties who are in need of care in areas pertaining to behavioral health care services. The Cobb and Douglas County Community Services Board’s Philosophy of Care is “To maximize satisfaction and outcomes through respectful, evidence based interventions with responsible use of resources.” The core value of the organization is that “Its success will occur through constant mindfulness of its Philosophy of Care and values” which includes: Individual empowerments, customer driven care, passion for innovation and integrity and focus on community. (www.cobbcsb.com, 2009).

Website: www.cobbcsb.com
Contact: Executive Director- Tod Citron
(770) 422-0202/ (770) 429-5000
Volunteer Coordinator- Mary Robeck
(770) 819-9229
3830 South Cobb Drive, Suite 300
Smyrna, GA 30080

Mind Games Movie Premier

2009-11-05T14:04:00.001-08:00

The “Mind Games” premiere that was held on October 30, 2009 at the Mechanic Hall in Boston, Massachusetts, was very intriguing and interesting. Although the event started at a later time, the attendants had fun. The venue was very classy and elegant. The red carpets and the Victorian time setting added beauty to the hall. There were lots of individuals from French speaking African countries, Haitians and Nigerians. The main actor and actress of the movies were Van Vicker and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde. The supporting actor and actress were two very nice and pleasant individuals from Haiti named Reginald Lubin and Carlin Renold. The talented actors and actresses were very well received by the audience. I got the chance to meet Miss Guinea USA and Miss Ivory Coast USA. They were both beautiful and outgoing. The organizers of the event tried their best to make me comfortable and I really appreciated their efforts. They apologized for any discrepancies during the trip and I will like to work with them again. I met people from all works of life, especially those in the various African entertainment industries. There were several performers from French-speaking countries who showcased their talents and also sold their materials after the show. I look forward to attending another premier and meeting more talented individuals.

Why I love Nigeria - Tolu Noah ~ Miss Anambra 2009/Miss Photogenic 2009

2009-10-04T14:20:00.000-07:00

"I come from a land where family and community matter more than the individual.

Where relatives go out of their way to be supportive and welcoming

And the village raises the child, rather than the child ravaging the village.

I come from a land with rich, diverse languages

Where the word “ewa” can mean "beautiful," "beans," or "come"

And a person’s name is not just a name- it carries meaning

I come from a land with the most ambitious and hardworking people on the planet

Where education is of utmost importance

And citizens become doctors, engineers, teachers, and scientists

I come from a land where I can buy anything I need while stuck in traffic:

Watches

Drinks

Belts

Pure water

You name it, they’ve got it.

My country may not be perfect

But we are more than the negative headlines

Gracing the newspaper page

We are creative.

We are ambitious.

We are caring.

We are driven.

We are intelligent.

This is why I love Nigeria."

Tolu Noah
Miss Anambra 2009/Miss Photogenic 2009

Nigerian Independence Day

2009-10-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

October 1, 2009 marked Nigeria's 49th Independence Day. Every nation has growing pains and we are looking at this generation and the next to try and effect change in our mode of thinking and in the way we view our great nation. For the month of October, MNIA, Inc. will dedicate this blog to the quotes from many great Nigerians. We have asked people to email us and tell us why they love Nigeria...

"I love Nigeria for its diversity, abundant mineral resources and the fierce patriotism of its people. -Claret Ijeoma Onukogu - Miss Nigeria in America 2009.

Spousal Verbal Abuse

2009-09-28T22:48:00.000-07:00

Spousal abuse is a problem that is prevalent among women in third world countries including Nigeria. I personally believe that it is caused by lack of proper education. Women are expected to be overly submisive to their male counterparts in these countries. Women are not fully liberated and they have little or no voice in their societies. They are expected to be a shadow for their men and not really express themselves when and how they want to; in a social gathering, A woman cannot stand up and speak without approval from her husband or parents. Spousal abuse has become a norm in Nigeria and other third world countries. Some men tend to show off their strength by abusing their women physically and especially verbally.

The effects of spousal verbal abuse are depression, loneliness and low self-esteem.

Individuals that are facing spousal verbal abuse need to realize that they have self worth. They need to ask themselves questions such as:

Do I have co-dependency issues?
Do I deserve to be abused?
What am I getting out of my marriage or relationship?
What are the positive and negative aspects of my marriage or relationship?
How can I change things for the better?

Claret Onukogu
Miss Nigeria In America 2009

The Miss Nigeria in America 2009 Pageant

2009-05-11T01:09:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe it's almost here. Well Ladies and Gentlemen, we have started planning. We have 3 and 1/2 months to plan this great event. I am ChiChi Dike, for those of you who don't know me and I will be your guide as we plan this event that marks our 5th Year anniversary. We promise to bring you an event you don'twant to miss. Do you have any plans for Labor Day Weekend? I suggest that you make your plans to come to Los Angeles for the 5th edition of the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant...

We are taking applications for the contestants and you can apply by clicking on this http://www.missnigeriainamerica.org/v2/cont_winners_application.php If you have any questions concerning the application, please call 213.471.2667. The deadline to Apply is JULY 6, 2009

Check out our website at http://www.missnigeriainamerica.org/ and be sure to check this blog on our journey to planning the 5th Anniversary!

Shalom

ChiChi Dike

Executive Producer and Director

The 2009 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant

Why I choose to DISCOVER

2009-04-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

In the middle of a conversation about MNIA on Friday, I was asked, “why do you do this, why is this important to you?” I answered his question, but that question has stayed with me since then. I feel like I did not adequately express my WHY.

For those of you that are not familiar with the school system in Nigeria as in many other African countries, you pay for EVERYTHING. From pre-school till the very end of your schooling, essentially, education is a luxury that only the privileged few can afford. When we travel down into the villages and rural parts of Nigeria, in addition to affordability, we are now faced with the issues of accessibility and quality.

It becomes easier to detach ourselves from the reality of situations that our friends and families face back some the longer we remain in the Diaspora and makes lives for ourselves here. We feel like we are unaffected by what the average person unrelated to us has to deal with. Yet, more people are afraid to go home. Dejected by the conditions we return to, sometimes afraid to even go home, however, the reality is that we are all affected in one way or another.

One of my professors once said that “people are punished, and then they commit crimes”. That statement has stayed with me ever since and resonates more with me when I think about most of the social issues we face back home. People are suffering; there is a blatant disregard and disrespect of the citizens by our elected officials. As a society, we are apathetic to our neighbors, we simply do not care about each, and most importantly and sadly, we have failed our children.

I choose to discover because I believe in being my brother’s keeper. I choose to discover because I want my children to share in the pride that I feel to be a Nigerian. They say home is where the heart is. My heart is in Nigeria, I choose to discover because I want to be home. I choose to discover because it is our obligation to leave this place better than it was when we found it. The people who shed blood did just that. It is our turn to pass on that torch, most importantly; we can not and must not pass a dead torch to the next generation. We must re-ignite the torch before we attempt to pass it on. I choose to discover because I am tired of being a part of a society that punishes people unjustly for being born without a silver spoon. I choose to discover because I believe in the promise of a new Nigeria.

Queen Uchekwe
MNIA Team

Candid Questions with Dame Patience Jonathan

2009-04-18T06:18:00.000-07:00

As you may know, Nigeria's very own, Dame Patience Jonathan (wife of Nigerian Vice President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan) is being honored on Saturday April 25, 2009 at the African Focus Awards. But with recognition comes responsibility. This is our chance to hold our people accountable!

We have to ask the tough, but necessary questions. We have to ask what they are doing for us and what they are doing for our future. We must question the time and effort they put into ending the disparities between people in Nigeria. We must interrogate the policies they adopt and the many ways they fail to help their people. We must bring our concerns to the forefront and with honesty and candidness ask why it is so difficult to get around the red tape (or should I say the green white and green tape) and provide HELP to my own people. We must ask why the governmental and non-governemental organizations (i.e. Ministry of Education) still exist when they cause more problems then solutions. And we must ALL get involved! Nigeria is not going to change unless WE do something about it and hold ourselves and, especially, our people of distinction to a standard worthy of respect.

What can you do? Ask questions! This is your opportunity to ask Dame Patience Jonathan questions that are relevant to the Nigerian movement, questions that hold her accountable and questions that you have been waiting to ask a person of distinction.

Sample questions:

When you hear about atrocities and human rights violations committed against your people, what do you do and how do your remedy these situations?
What are some of your interest and public involvements?
Where do you see Nigeria in the next 5 years? 10 years? 50 years?
What would be your contribution to the development of Nigeria in the next 10 years?
How would you compare yourself to First Lady Michelle Obama?
What is the wife of a Vice President responsible for? What do you do?
What do you stand for?
What will be your legacy?

We will gather all of the questions and present them to Dame Patience Jonathan when we meet her on April 25, 2009. Please submit your questions to me at ronke@missnigeriainamerica.org.

ALL SUBMISSIONS ARE DUE BY WEDNESDAY APRIL 22, 2009!!!

Love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America, 2008

Letter of Intent for Project WE - Discover

2009-04-16T00:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight,

I believe we have come closer to achieving the first part of our objective and that is securing a girls' institution in Nigeria to assist with our objective of promoting education among women. As we wait for our questions to be answered, I cannot help but smile in my heart knowing how MNIA can help these girls take a step forward to acheiving thier dreams. Once we get all our feedback, I will introduce the name of the school and the reasons why this mission is very important to the reigning Miss Nigeria in America 2008 -Ronke Oke.

Another interesting aspect is that MNIA has booked 2 major meetings with 2 of the best PR in New York and Los Angeles. This will help promote our good deeds so that the rest of the world could join us in this fight for Education for Women in Nigeria.

Rememeber, I promised you all an insight into our journey of preparing for the launch of Project WE - DISCOVER. Keep reading!

Much love

ChiChi Dike
Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.

Progress Report for Project WE

2009-04-13T00:43:00.000-07:00

So everyone is asking us, what is Project WE? Below is an excerpt of what Project WE stands for. Okay so I summarized it as follows:

Project Women’s Education (Project WE)
“Education and Literacy among Nigerian women”

Education among Nigerian women is one of the key objectives of MNIA, Inc. This program thus focuses on the advancement (Social, Financial and Sustainability) of the Nigerian woman through education. This project aims to assist women in rural villages and cities with funds to cover education costs. This will empower them through life’s struggles to forge on forward to attain the highest level of education with appropriate assistance. This program will aim at achieving the following:
~~Provision of scholarships for the less fortunate women in Nigeria.
~~Assist in providing school uniforms for deserving primary/secondary school girls.
~~Promotion of Women's teacher training programs.
~~Non formal education programs for adult women.
~~Initiation of a campaign to encourage parents in remote areas to send their daughters to school.

This is the founding program for MNIA and the reason, MNIA Inc. was started. I believe that when you educate a woman, you educate a nation. Wikipedia refers to education any act or experience that has a formative effect on the mind, character, or physical ability of an individual. In its technical sense, education is the process by which society, through schools, colleges, universities, and other institutions, deliberately transmits its cultural heritage--its accumulated knowledge, values, and skills--from one generation to another.

Having read that, can you imagine when the foundation of a nation is not educated? Can you imagine what the world will be like if there were no educated women?

Project WE takes a stand on the reasons why EDUCATION is very important for Nigerian women. It is our FIGHT!! It is our MISSION to continue to fight to ensure that the percentage of Nigerian Women who are educated is increased.

I cannot live in a world today were WOMEN EDUCATION is not a priority!

PROJECT WE will ensure that WOMEN EDUCATION becomes a priority in Nigeria and in the global world.!

By ChiChi Dike
Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.
Beverly Hills, CA

April is the month for Project WE (Women's Education) DISCOVER

2009-04-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

There is a song that I really love - "Man in the Mirror" by Michael Jackson. The first verse and the chorus says:

I'm Gonna Make A Change
For Once In My Life
It's Gonna Feel Real Good, I'm Gonna Make A Difference
Gonna Make It Right .
As I, Turn Up The Collar On My Favourite Winter Coat
This Wind Is Blowin' My Mind
I See The Kids In The Street,With Not Enough To Eat
Who Am I, To Be Blind?Pretending Not To See Their Needs
A Summer's Disregard,
A Broken Bottle Top
And A One Man's Soul
They Follow Each Other On The Wind Ya' Know'
Cause They Got NowhereTo Go
That's Why I Want You ToKnow

I'm Starting With The Man In The Mirror
I'm Asking Him To Change His Ways
And No Message Could Have Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World A Better Place
Take A Look At Yourself, And Then Make A Change

If you read the words of this song, it's telling us that if we want to effect change, we gotta look out ourselves (Man/Woman in the Mirror) and change ourselves, our attitude towards things, our beliefs and our commitment to helping the less fortunate.

This April, we would take you through our journey on planning the implementation of Project Women's Education (WE). We would chronicle our efforts on finding the right approach to helping achieve the objective of the programs and our quest to bring this vision to life.

For more about Project WE and DISCOVER, please log on to http://www.missnigeriainamerica.org/

ChiChi Dike
Executive Director
MNIA, Inc.

My grandmother – A WOMAN of Faith and Vision

2009-03-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

In life, men and women who achieve success are those who are clear about their goals in life. Among other things, as Dwight Eisenhower once put it, vision is an integral quality of a great man. Having a vision means seeing a clear picture of the future you desire for yourself. Setting targets alone does not ensure the achievement of goals; deciding on how to reach these targets is also an essential part of success. A person of vision is clear about his/her ambitions and strategizes about how best to achieve them. This implies planning ahead for future success which often demands making difficult yet very necessary decisions without limiting one’s self. Indeed, visionaries are those who not only set their target high and clear but also have their objectives well-defined and achievable. Due to the fact that plans can be affected by unforeseen circumstances, versatility and flexibility are important tools for successful planning.

Efforts to secure a bright future through meticulous planning often involve forgoing current leisure for future pleasure. Your efforts are driven by your definition of success; what you desire to see happen. Frequently, your ability to dream big will be persistently tested by obstacles but holding true to your vision of what you want for your future will shape your behavior and actions and help you overcome all surrounding impediments. My late grandmother, who was my inspiration, is a testimony to this fact – her story is the epitome of how your vision can shape your thinking and actions leading to ultimate success in life.

My grandmother; the Late Princess Victoria Nzewi, was the daughter of the Late Igwe 1 of Nnobi, a town in Anambra State, Nigeria, His Royal Highness (HRH) Solomon Ezeokoli. She grew up in Nnobi. The common societal practice during her childhood was to educate male children and marry off the females at a tender age. Sure enough, HRH Igwe 1 of Nnobi was wealthy enough to afford foreign education for his sons – he sent them off to school in far away England. Conversely, my grandmother was withdrawn from school and married to a headmaster; she went on to have a total of twelve children. Unfortunately, when her children were still young, her husband passed away. Tragic as it was, my grandmother did not succumb to despair but pressed on in order to provide her children with decent living conditions. Shortly after her husband’s death, my grandmother picked up her pieces and began to “dream”. Though she had more female children, she envisioned that every one of her children would successfully gain a University education. She was determined that the girls would have a fair chance at education.

The odds were stark against her and given her situation, it seemed impossible. In spite of being a single mother, she was driven by her objective and ambition for her children and relentlessly soldiered on with renewed determination. Grandmother started a bakery venture which grew quickly and eventually extended to the distant town of Onitsha. She toiled and labored so that her children would have it better in life than she did. I learned that people commented that she was strong and worked like a “man”. That did not deter her, if anything it spurred her on and kept her moving. She succeeded in putting the first two (twin) children through school and continued until all her surviving children became University graduates. Today, all her surviving children – six females and one male – are successful doctors, dentists, pharmacists, chemists, food technologists to say the least.

Grandmother, a humble lady with no education, had the courage to pursue her vision. She had a clear picture of what she wanted and worked towards achieving it without compromising her morals and integrity. On December 19th 2000, my grandmother passed on. At that time, I was a secondary school student. I was deeply saddened at her death especially because I performed exceptionally well in school that term and was excited about making it home to tell her of my success. I knew she would be so proud of me. I remember on one occasion, a few years before her death my parents visited her in her Nnewi home and read her a letter I had written telling her that I ranked top in my class that term. As my parents read it to her, tears trickled down her eyes. I believe my letter caused her to remember her own success stories and the fact that her hard work had paid off. I remain thankful for the moments I shared with her and for the knowledge, inspiration and willpower that she instilled in me. Her life was exemplary and she taught me that I could achieve anything I wanted and that the only limitations that exist were in the mind.

As individuals, we must not let the circumstances and situation around us limit our dreams. The moment we stop dreaming is the moment we die. I chose to come to the United States to receive my education among the very best and to strive to do my very best. It has been a privilege. Like Mary Kay Ash says: “if you can dream it, you can achieve it”. Indeed your attitude in life determines your altitude in life. Dream big and set your eyes high up the ladder; that is the only way you can climb it and move on to your target goal.

Today, I celebrate this powerful woman, this mentor of mine who stayed strong and firm amid many odds and hurdles. She was a woman of faith which translated into her driving vision that enabled her achieve her coveted ambitions for her children. She taught me so much and I am grateful. Her story is one that will encourage young African women.

By Chinyere Nwabugwu
Miss Adamawa, 2008

The WOMAN who taught Wemi to be a WOMAN!!!

2009-03-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have learned everything I know about being a woman from the most important woman in my life, my mother. I have learned how to love, to be giving and to be kind. I have learned to be confident, to be myself and to be graceful at all times. I've been taught to be proud of myself and to appreciate the success of others, I've been taught that there's nothing that is beyond my reach. I am happy with who I am today mainly because I have such a strong force guiding me, loving me and protecting me. My mother is my most loyal confidant. She has led by example, succeeded in business, love and family. As I share with her everyday, grow with her spiritually, I'm grateful to have this woman in my life.

Wemi
www.ruedechic.com

Why Banks LOVES Nigerian WOMEN!!

2009-03-24T12:23:00.001-07:00

Nigerian women are very proud of their accomplishments. I have 3 beautiful older sisters and a loving mother and I must say they have shaped me to be the man that I am today.

They are all are a true definition of what it means to be an INDEPENDENT WOMAN. My mum is a wife of 44 years and has managed to balance the responsibility of a loving wife and being a mother of 8 kids with working full time and running an international business. My mum can boast of nurses, engineers, bankers, and entrepreneurs as kids. My dad is a part of the family as well and is definitely doing a lovely job, but since my message is about women I will concentrate on my mum. She never passed on anything that we needed; if daddy didn't have it due to slow contracts, mummy would go to any length to get it for us. She would do anything necessary for us to make it including closing down our business and moving with me and the babies (myself and the last set of twins) to America when we started college.

My sisters will always tell you what it takes to be a young girl going to college in America and U.K and working full time to pay for college They will also tell of the hardships of maintaining their dignity by not selling their bodies for money.

So Nigerian women are very very proud and they are what I call THE ALL AROUND INDEPENDENT WOMAN!

By Banks Omishore

Diane Mbeo is PROUD to be a WOMAN!!!

2009-03-23T23:14:00.001-07:00

“It’s a man’s world, a woman’s place is pregnant, barefoot, and in the kitchen.” These phrases were commonly spoken by members of the community I grew up in, and it disheartened me to see several potent women resign themselves to such backward and primitive sayings. That is why this has come to be my portal into a new era, one in which my fellow sisters and I take a stand and show our male counterparts that we too have a place at the table.

I am proud to say that I took part in this year’s teleconference held on March 5th to celebrate International Women’s Day. This day is becoming increasingly important around the world; in Bosnia for example, every man buys flowers for every woman in his life to celebrate it. In Iraq and Africa, this day is even bigger than mother’s day! You see, my sisters, we must celebrate ourselves first if we want our men to celebrate us. In traditional African mythology, the lion is portrayed as the king of the jungle; this translates to the man being the head of his household. Behind every successful lion, is a strong lioness. Chinua Achebe, a famous Nigerian writer, demonstrated this concept in his books.

They say a woman should treat her man like a king, just as a man should regard his wife as a queen. BUT, this should not be expected to come automatically, for a king must love his wife into her place. I say this to urge my fellow sisters not to be intimidated into mindless servitude by chauvinistic men, and to bear in mind that we should never shy away from demanding the same love and respect that our men think they deserve.

A final word of advice to my sisters, let’s thirst for knowledge and education, for this is the key to success. President Obama said, “In a global economy, where the most valuable skill you can sell is your knowledge, a good education is no longer just a pathway to opportunity, it’s a prerequisite.” In most places today, women still have to work twice as hard as men to obtain only half the recognition, especially in the workplace. Let’s not listen to people when they say “school isn’t for everyone.” Infact, if you’re a woman, education is definitely for you, go get it. Let’s show the world that the corporate ladder can be climbed in heels.

This is 2009, two-thousand-and-MINE, my (our) time to shine. Join me in celebrating all things feminine.

By Diane Mbeo

Why Kola LOVES Women

2009-03-18T03:25:00.000-07:00

I love that women can use both the logical and emotional sides in their decision making process. Women can also multi task efficiently balancing work, family, friends and other activities without missing a beat. Lastly women opinions always provide balance to any decision to be made with a man.

By Kola Ogunlana (Junior)

Celebrating Our Women: From MAN to WOMAN

2009-03-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

March is Women's History Month. As we celebrate the contributions women have made in this country and track the genealogy of her development from the historic woman to the modern woman we must remember that this month is also a CELEBRATION! A celebration of what it means to be a woman and why being a woman is like no other. In my entire life, through it all, I can honestly say that I wouldn't want it any other way. From the hardships and sorrows to the strength and triumph, from the second-class status to the mover-and-shakers of the world, from deference to power, from mother to leader, (and best of all) FROM MAN TO WOMAN....being a WOMAN means being the best, the strongest, and the shoulders on which you stand and hold everyone else up. And because of the pride that all women have (or should have) in who they are I would like us to take this moment to talk about why WE LOVE BEING WOMEN!!!! So enjoy these messages of encouragement, inspiration, and pride.

Much love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America

Our BLACK History! winner

2009-03-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce the winner of the MNIA, Inc Our BLACK History contest!

M Y K W A I N......G A I N E Y !!!

Mykwain is a filmaker/photographer from the Bronx, NY. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and a student at New York University Film School. He has worked on a lot of big projects and with even bigger names. He is extremely talented and has a true knack for capturing everyone in their best. Simply stated: he takes BRILLIANT pictures. His work and artistic eye will easily caste him into People's 25 Most Influential People Under 30! If you don't know about him you better find out and find out FAST!! (Click on the link below to visit his website)

http://www.mykwain.com

Mykwain gave me my first break in the industry and has captured me in picture as well as on film. I was the star of a film he directed at Morehouse College and I'm sure if you ask him he will send you the link to the movie. You can also contact him on Facebook and on his myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/mykwain.

Here are the correct answers to the contest (submitted by Mykwain of course):

1.) CHINUA ACHEBE
2.) KING SUNNY ADE
3.) BABATUNDE

4.) PATRICIA ETTEH

5.) GANI FAWEHINMI
6.) BEKO RANSOME-KUTI
7.) FELA KUTI
8.) FLORA NWAPA
9.) OLUSEGUN OBASANJO
10.) HAKEEM OLAJUWON
11.) MICHAEL OLOWOKANDI
12.) WOLE SOYINKA
13.) SEAL HENRY OLUSEGUN OLUMIDE ADEOLA
14.) CHIEF COMMANDER EBENEZER OBEY
15.) KEN SARO-WIWA
16.) HELEN FOLASADE (SADE) ADU

17.) AKINWUMI ADESOKAN
18.) MAURICE IWU
19.) IBRAHIM BABANGIDA
20.) PRESIDENT UMARU YAR'ADUA
21.) PHILIP EMEAGWALI

So you need some assistance?

2009-03-04T21:20:00.000-08:00

I recently advertised MNIA, Inc's first contest. I am sad to report that no one has won. I realize this is a difficult task but it just goes to show how much we need to know our history and recognize the movers and shakers of our repective countries. But I am always here to help. If you don't know already here are the rules for the contest:

In the picture to the right of this message are 20 famous Nigerians. The first person to correctly identify, in order, the people depicted wins the contest. To enter, please send an email, with your answers to me at ronke@missnigeriainamerica.org. You can submit as many entries as you want but please remember that THE FIRST PERSON TO HAVE A CORRECT LIST wins the contest. The winner of this contest gets an official MNIA prize pack!! We will mail it to you and I promise that it is something you definitely want.

Contest ends SUNDAY MARCH 8, 2009!!!!

So now that we all know what's going on here are some clues:

1. He wrote a famous book about Ibo life. Very popular. Everyone has read it!

2. His 'Odu' album was nominated for Best World Music album in the Grammy awards.

3. A famous drummer who influenced musicians such as Carlos Santana, Mickey Hart, John
Coltrane and Bob Dylan, and died from diabetes.

4. She is/was the Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives.

5. Born on April 22, 1938, he is a Nigerian author, publisher, philanthropist, social critic, and human and civil rights lawyer. He has written openly about Former President Obansanjo.

6. He was the chairman for the Campaign for Democracy. In 1997 he was awarded the human rights award of the city of Weimar. He was inprisoned on July 25 1995 on charges of treason to the Abacha government.

7. An Afrobeat musician who formed the band Koola Lobitos (later changed to Africa '70), the Kalakutu Republic, a commune, and a recording studio.

8. A famous Nigerian writer who is mostly known for being the first African woman to publish a book in English.

9. He was the President of Nigeria from 1976 until 1979.

10. Basketball player for the Houston Rockets.

11. Basketball player nicknamed the Kandi man

12. First African writer to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986.

13. Married to Heidi Kloom.

14. Has an album entitled, "Juju Jubilee"

15. Soyinka's book "The Open Sore of A Continent" was, in part, a dedication to him. He was the leader of the human rights activists for the Ogoni people, until he was executed in November 10, in 1995, along with 8 other leaders

16. Famous songs include, "Smooth Operator", "The Sweetest Taboo", and "No Ordinary Love"

17. He is one of the two 1998 recipients of the Freedom-to-Write award. This is an award to honor "writers who have produced work in the face of extreme adversity and have defended freedom of expression and fought against censorship.", and he won because he "risked his life and a promising literary career to write on behalf of his friends and colleagues who were imprisoned by the regime of Nigerian General Sani Abacha."

18. This man took his precious time off his pharmacological exploits and cure of Ebola to conduct the worst election in human history.

19. Former Nigerian President

20.The current President of Nigeria.

21. He is an inventor and computer wizard.

Hope this helps,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America

Our Black History!

2009-02-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

As you may know the running theme for our February blogs is a celebration of our BLACK history. And if you live in the States (Yankee-town), then all around you, through various mediums, you will find yourself bombarded with facts, dates, VIPs, and other celebratory achievements of African Americans. You will hear widespread reports, receive invitations to historical re-tellings of a life and time when things were different for Blacks in America, and feel inclined to participate in the teeming number of cultural events held all around the country. Not to denigrate the expansive and well-deserved recognition of Black American history in the States, but as a Black person that is not necessarily American I feel impelled to ask, "Where is my Black History?" Where are the facts, dates, VIPs, and other celebratory acheivements of my fellow Nigerians? Where do I attend the cultural events depicting the re-tellings of my family's history? Where are my reports? Where are my invitations?

Maybe my rearing in the States has been a handicap to my development as a Nigerian women. I think I missed taking the course in Nigerian history in high school and college (not that it was offered in either place) and maybe I should have asked my parents more questions. But would they have known the history of their country as well as I can recapitulate the history of oppression and slavery in the States? I think that the answer here is a giant NO! I'm sure that my parents can help me with the culture aspect of the Nigerian lifestyle, but the historical precedence that nourishes that culture, I'm not too certain. Where would they have learned it? It could have been in their primary or secondary school; I know that Nigerian history is taught there. But for me, for my individual set of circumstances that render me removed from that kind of direct teaching and removed from the memories of my 40+ year old parents, where can I learn this information?

I don't think that anyone has thought that this information is important enough to put in print. I tried to go to Amazon and purchase the "Concise Introduction to Nigerian History" and "1960: The Annotated History of a Civilization" but I don't think they are out yet (probably because I just made them up). I assume that this information, in the thorough way I find in African American history, is not out there (and just to lay into the point a bit more and prove to you that I did my research: I spent all of 30min on Google trying to find this information and its not there. Experience has taught me that if it can't be googled then it doesn't exist!). So what do I do? I must celebrate BLACK history month. It's simple: I'll re-tell my history myself!

On a majority of African American owned radio and television stations I have noticed that their commercials provide you with information about what happened "on this day" in history. I love it! and feel that it would be appropriate to institute this same kind of "commercial break" as we celebrate the history of all Blacks this month. So for the month of February, this is what happened on a particular day in the history of Nigeria: (if you have anything to add, please feel free to leave it in the comment section)

February 9, 1979 - Nigeria amends Constitution.

February 11, 1971 - Whitney Young Jr, National Urban League director, drowns in Nigeria.

February 13, 1976 - General Murtala Mohammed, head of Nigeria, killed during a coup.

February 13, 1944 - Rebop Kwaku Baah,the Nigerian percussionist, was born.

February 27, 1999 - Olusegun Obansanjo becomes Nigeria's first elected president since mid-1983.

February 26, 1885 - Congress of Berlin, gives Congo to Belgium & Nigeria to England.

(all facts come from http://www.historyorb.com/countries/nigeria )

Happy BLACK history month!

Love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America, 2008

P.S. : I was just kidding about not finding it on Google. I just said it for dramatic effect. EVERYTHING can be googled! But the point I was trying to make is that we need to know the history of our county and our people, and celebrate the strides we have made especially this month. It doesn't matter if that country is Nigeria, Cameroon, Haiti, Jamaica, Madagascar, or Ghana. Next year I hope to hear about some events or exhibitions depicting our rich history. We can make it happen. We need to make it happen for our future generations. They need to know their story and we need to re-tell it as often as we can.

TO KNOW WHO YOU ARE YOU MUST FIRST KNOW WHERE YOU COME FROM!!!

Here are some websites that discuss the history of Nigeria

http://www.historyworld.net/wrldhis/PlainTextHistories.asp?historyid=ad41
http://history1900s.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://www.motherlandnigeria.com/history.html
http://www.iss.co.za/Af/profiles/Nigeria/Politics.html

Here is a book on the history of Nigeria:

http://www.amazon.com/History-Nigeria-Toyin-Falola/dp/052168157X

Evolution of a Legacy

2009-02-09T01:41:00.000-08:00

So it’s Black history month again, and traditionally, we celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of Africans and African Americans from our respective societies. The election of the first African American President of this country makes this year’s celebration a little more unique.

Amidst the excitement that I’m sure most of us feel this Black history month, we must take a moment and reflect on the shift that has occurred in our history with the election of President Obama and what stories we will produce for future generations to celebrate in their black history months. The change that we have all hoped for is finally upon us. Knowing that this moment is possible because of the sacrifices that individuals that have walked this earth before me continues to serve as an inspiration to me.

I cannot help but to think about Nigeria as the whole world celebrates with America. It saddens me that we find ourselves in this very dismal situation, the future seems bleak, and I shudder to think about how brave men and women who sacrificed and fought for our independence would react if they woke up today. We have become apathetic and it seems that we have lost our zeal to survive. However, it gives me pleasure when I talk to other young Nigerians who are hopeful about the inevitable change that will come to our home land. To those people who are holding on to this hope, thank you! For me, I am hopeful as well. Surely we know that change does not come by the waving of a magic wand.

What sacrifices are we willing to make today so that our children and grand children can one day stand in unison and declare that change has finally come? How will history remember our generation? We must all play a role if we want the vision of the new Nigeria to come to pass. It is not enough to sit and hope for things to happen. We must support each other, affect change even if only one person is touched, and we must preserver because that moment, our moment will be so much larger than any of us can imagine today.

I encourage us to stay in that hope, motivated by that dream and commit ourselves to the vision of effecting that change that we wish to see come to fruition and together make a difference that will inspire the future generation to also continue the spirit of hope that we instill in them.

Remain Inspired,

Queen Gideon

MNIA. Inc. Team

"Ask Me Anything" w/ Ronke A. Oke

2009-02-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

I really don't know what I want to call it. Ask Me Anything gets right to the point, but its not catchy enough. Another suggestion is either I Tell Ya! or The Inquisitive Soul but neither one of these really captivates me. You're probably wondering what I'm talking about. I'm talking about my video blog, the program/show/videoepisode that I initiated that would allow me to respond to the questions that you all ask me. A lot of people ask me questions about myself and want to know where I stand on certain issues. Others, I am aware, are simply dying to ask me some questions (and this may be an overstatement but I hope its true). I want to share my responses to these questions with my audience and also give those who have inquired into the personal areas of my mind a medium to join the spotlight. I think this would be an innovative way to reach out and see who is listening and who is supportive. Here's how it works: If you have a question for me just send it to ronke@missnigeriainamerica.org. If you want me to personally mention who submitted the question, please leave your name. All submissions are due by Friday and you should see a posting by Monday or no later than Wednesday (unless there are extenuating circumstances, i.e. the first video response). I am also giving shout outs. So if you have an event, or just want your name stated for the world to hear or see, or even if you want to share anything, send it to me and I will make sure that you get your space. I would also include any poems, songs, spoken word or (this can be recorded or written) original peices, questions you have for those who are watching, an problem that you want advice on, or a picture that you want others to see. I will make sure that it makes it on and give you the credit you deserve.

Now I want to know what you all think about this. How does this idea work for you all? Do you all feel more involved with what I am doing? That is the goal for all of this to get you all involved. Please let me know and feel free to share your comments, thoughts, and suggestions for a name for this videoepisode.

Much love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America, 2008

The Inauguration/Oprah really got to me

2009-01-25T19:16:00.001-08:00

One unforgettable moment, five words: The Inauguration of Barack Obama! It was my intention to join the 1.5+ million people in DC and stand face to face with the man whose story is the stuff of legends. But the $800+ airlines were asking for plane tickets to DC made me rethink how I was going to celebrate this moment in history. I normally do not praise Memphis but the city actually came through during the Inauguration. The relationship that many drew between President (hee-hee. I can say that now) Obama and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made Memphis the 2nd best place to watch the Inauguration. Memphis is the city where MLK was assassinated 40 years ago and I was able to view the inauguration at the exact location MLK was assassinated, the Lorraine Motel, which has been transformed into the historic Civil Rights Museum. I even managed to make it on CNN....well not me exactly but the auditorium of the Civil Rights Museum made it onto CNN. I was honestly almost brought to tears (and I am not one to shed them, but I was at the brink of complete exposure) when I saw Pres. Obama cross the threshold of the Capital and take his place on the podium. I mean I definitely felt the presence of something in that room and felt a great wave of joy and confidence overtake my body. But as all things, my reflection of the moment did not mimic my sentiment of the experience.

I began to wonder why I was so invested in this election and what it meant for me as a Nigerian to be excited that this man is now the President of the United States. How can I and do I relate to this moment? Pres. Obama is not Nigerian; his father is from Kenya so that makes him partly African and I can relate to the occasion because of his ancestry. But he's not known as the first African President of the United States but the first African American President of the United States. He does make a point to acknowledge and re-emphasize the diversity of his background, especially his African roots, but is this simply it? Does it even make a difference? I know most of you all are thinking that I should just be happy for this moment and rejoice in the triumph of truth, justice, faith and hope, and in the power of democracy.....but as a Philosopher I must ask these tough and trying questions. Do I have a place in President's Obama's legacy? Is his dream the same as mine? How deep is the bond between President and constituent? Obama includes me in his dream on the condition that I keep my end of the bargain and work to make the Dream a reality not only for myself as an resident of the Americas but as a citizen of the world, a believer in a more perfect, harmonious and equal utopia. The thing that me, MLK and Obama have in common is that we are all Dreamers and we all believe that our dreams will one day be a reality. Whereas I tried to cause division by making the Dream about country lines, the Dream is really about the width of one's heart and the triumph of one person who will work to elevate millions. That's the significance of January 20, 2009 and the legacy of President Barack Obama.

Then enters Oprah Winfrey. One particular statement she made during her Inauguration recap show with Gail, Forest Whittaker, and Bon Jovi really boiled my blood. Everyone was commenting on how the entire world tuned in to watch President Obama take the oath of office and Oprah made a comment that aggravated the biggest pet peeve I have about references to Africa, bigger than the question "Do you all wear clothes/shoes?"It is the pet peeve of referring to Africa as a country. Oprah said that even her girls in Africa were watching the Inauguration, as if to say that from this statement one could pinpoint the location of the girls. The picture I imagined was a small cottage with the words "Africa" written on the mailbox and all of Oprah's girls sitting around cross-legged watching the tv screen as President Obama took his oath. Africa is not a small cottage but an enormous palace with 54 rooms, all with unique decores, structures, and styles. I am sure she did not intend to mean that Africa was a country but when I heard her statement I immediately heard her saying: Africa = country, not continent. I would rather, in circumstances where you know the specific country in reference, people call the country by name. If it is not a country that most people know you can do them dual service to list the country AND the continent. That way they will know that the country is within the continent and not continue to think that the continent is a county. She could have said that (1) her girls in Johannesburg were watching the Inauguration or (2) her girls in Johannesburg, South Africa were watching the Inauguration. Truly, I would have liked for her to say that her girls in Henley-on-Klip were watching the Inauguration. I opt for the latter statement because I think it would encourage people to do research on their own and figure out exactly where it is located. A significant majority of people (and I will go out on a limb and say Americans) are not aware of a world outside of their country, especially the world of Africa (and here I can sayAfrica because I am referring to the continent and not to a specific country or locale. And I also know that Africa is a continent not a country).

Well I guess that's it for now. I'm sure you have a lot to say in response to this blog and I LOVE IT! I welcome all opinions and comments. This is a discussion not a personal rant (even though at times it could read as such :-P). Even if you agree with my statements, the whole point is to make your voice heard. If you don't then that's even better. Make your point so we can talk about the world around us and open up the world around us......

Much Love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America, 2008

Some days it really is HARD!

2009-01-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

Good ideas are fairly easy to come up with, but every good idea is never as easy to implement. I guess this becomes the ever growing pile of discouragement that some Nigerian men and women cite as reasons they are spectators to the perpetuating problems and fail to contribute to the solution. The problems facing Nigeria are, without a doubt, overwhelming, and before a sign of hope appears in the horizon, it is met with more obstacles and increasing problems at every corner. Some believe that in order to defeat the obstacles they must secure better positions that enable them with the capacity and resources to make a difference (i.e. being a citizen with one vote cannot guarantee that your voice is heard but being an elected official with one vote can move and shake a multitude of things), but that too doesn't make matters easy. Sometimes it really is the state of things, and in particular the state of a nation, that is the impediment. Sometimes it really is HARD!!

As Miss Nigeria in America it is assumed that I am in a position to "move and shake." It is true that I have resources and a wide network of individuals and, even if I cannot manage to make direct contact with a resource, I can quickly be put in contact with someone who can. But with all these benefits I am still having difficulty trying to get what I want DONE. It is not a lack of passion or because of an impeding schedule but rather the difficulty in understanding what is really going on in Nigeria. It is at this point when I try to wrap my head around the fact that my call to the Orphanage in Okwelle just will not go through and added to that the fact that no one in Owerri knows where the orphanage is, that I realize what has happened: I have become Westernized. I operate with Western ideals and hopes, clouded expectancies in which I expect that answers to my questions will return to me in an "instant"; spoiled by the luxuries of communication devices, transportation systems, and other "advancements". I erroneously think that the world resembles my immediate surroundings and commonplace experiences. I have shut myself in from the outside world and have lost touch with reality. And the reality for most, including those in Nigeria and from Nigeria, is that my tunnel vision focus is surreal or rather, no reality at all.

Its not that I was disappointed that I could not get through to anyone at the orphanage but I honestly could not and do not understand why I couldn't get through and ultimately, why Nigeria is the way it is. Why don't we have better communication devices? Why aren't the roads paved and the transportation vehicles reliable? Why aren't we more advanced (technological and otherwise)? It is definitely not because we suffer from a lack of ingenuity. There are thousands of Nigerians in the States and all across the globe that are Engineers of all sorts, Entrepreneurs, Nurses and Doctors, Lawyers, Politicians, Educators, Inventors and Scientists, and who hold a host of other occupations and degrees, and whose opulence and intelligence would shock us all. This should at least warrant us a multitude of progressive staples in our country but to our dismay Nigeria is still the way it is and I am still a bit disconnected from it all.

I wanted to write this entry as my attempt to communicate to you the difficulty in getting anything of substance accomplished in Nigeria. I truly wanted to discuss the relentless attempts MNIA has made to make the dream of free education possible to the children at the Motherless Babies Home in Okwelle. I wanted to describe the setbacks of such a dream and the setbacks of Nigeria, but all I seem to point out are the setbacks of being away from home. I have spent 23 years way from my home and have let ambitions and other commitments prevent me from getting in touch with my roots. And though it really is hard some days to hold on to a dream, its even harder to let go of it. The great thing about this dream is that it not only allows me to be of service to others but it also keeps me grounded in Nigeria.

Much Love,

Ronke A. Oke
Miss Nigeria in America, 2008

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

2008-12-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

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)

2008-05-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

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)

2008-05-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-24T23:42:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-04-15T09:20:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-01T23:12:00.000-07:00

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!!!

2008-03-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-03T19:58:00.000-08:00

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

2008-02-11T11:26:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-06T13:42:00.000-08:00

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.

2008-01-01T03:01:00.000-08:00

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.

It's a New Season...It's a New Day

2007-12-29T21:47:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Eve. It’s got to be one of my favorite “holidays” ever! No lie. And it’s not because it happens to be one of the greatest party nights of the year. I actually can’t even remember the last time I went to a New Year’s Eve party. My family and home-church have always had things planned for the coming of the new year. No, I like New Year’s Eve because it marks the end. And next to every end is a new beginning.

New Year’s Eve comes with a sense of accomplishment. We made it! We made it through another year of highs and the lows, successes and the failures, promotions and rejections. We made it through another year of new found love and broken hearts, new friendships and unforeseen betrayals. And we made it through another year of heightened dreams and minor, yet still annoying little drawbacks. I like New Year’s Eve because it’s one day out of the whole year that we’re kind of prompted to think about all that’s happened to us in the past 364 days of our lives. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got A LOT to thank God for. I’ve also got a lot of things I want to improve, however...in me, around me, and through me. And that’s what New Year’s Eve is all about...at least to me.

2008 holds a promise. I’ve been researching orphanages in Nigeria, trying to find one that not only tugs at my heart (because they all have great need), but one that we can work with, one that will be able to make use of what we have to offer. You know how it is. It’s got to work both ways. I hope to finalize this decision very soon. Then it will be months of planning, preparation, and fundraising for my trip to and work in Nigeria! There are lots of ideas in works right now, but I can’t spill all the secrets, it’ll spoil all the fun! So just stay tuned… Like I said before, 2008 holds a promise…and it must be fulfilled… in all of our lives and livelihoods.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers, they are MUCH appreciated! And your comments (below) are very welcome. :)

Happy New Year Everyone!! May you find peace, love, and happiness in the upcoming year.

With Love,
Peace Amadi
Miss Nigeria in America 2007

It's Only Just Begun...

2007-12-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

Hello Beautiful People!!

Finally, I get some downtime to formally greet you all as the new Miss Nigeria in America. I'm so thankful to my family and friends for their endless amount of support and soooo looking forward to what this year holds. I just pray I can live up to all of what MNIA represents and hope that a year from now, I will look back with no regrets.

My goodness, where do I start? It's been such a whirlwind! And here I thought getting ready for the pageant was hard work... The work has just begun. We're busy getting ready to launch my platform which involves reaching out to abused, abandoned, and orphaned kids in Nigeria. It's a project I'm calling "Project Whole" that aims to meet these children's emotional, psychological, and creative needs in very practical ways. Charity begins at home... Though I've spent much of my life working with kids here in America, I will not be satisfied until I have reached my younger brothers and sisters at Home. Our Home. You will most definitely here alot more about this project in weeks to come. You will also hear more about how you can help!

So since the pageant, two of the most meaningful things I've been part of have been the events taken place on Thanksgiving and World AIDS Day:

MNIA Thanksgiving Dinner - November 22nd, 2007

MNIA Inc. and a group of amazing, selfless people set out to LA's PATH Homeless Shelter to cook and serve a hard-working crew of people who happen to be homeless. Thanksgiving has never meant more to me as I shared it with people who were, in the midst of their circumstances, genuinely grateful for things we so often take for granted. Sometimes we learn the most from the people who have the least...

World AIDS Day - December 1st, 2007

On this weekend, we set out for Houston, TX to attend Tosa Collection's "Runway to the Cure." While some of Naija's finest fashion designers treated our eyes to a variety of beautiful, innovative designs, all proceeds from the event were reserved for Keep a Child Alive, an organization that provides AIDS medication to those infected with HIV/AIDS and builds orphanages to sustain children who have lost their parents to AIDS. (Visit Keepachildalive.org for more information.)

The fact that I was invited to speak a little bit about the effect of AIDS in Africa motivated me to really sit down and think about the impact of this disease on our world. The statistics are alarming - among them are the fact that over 32 million people are living with HIV today (68% of cases in sub-saharan Africa alone), over 15 million children have been orphaned by AIDS, and over 6800 people are infected with HIV e v e r y d a y !!! If these numbers don't pull the strings of your heart, I don't know what will. We must continue to remember the millions of people that have suffered because of AIDS. We must continue to recognize our responsibility to raise awareness and campaign for greater action. We must continue to care...

So that's a little bit of what's been going on with me. Much has happened, but I know much, much more is yet to come. I have a sneaky suspicion that as I set out to affect change this year, I might be the one to change the most... Stay tuned...

With love,
Peace
Miss Nigeria in America 2007

We have settled finally...

2007-11-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

Oh my God.. It has been almost 3 weeks after the pageant... and I have to say, I am very impressed with the work of MNIA, Inc. Kudos to the whole team.. In anycase, we are working really hard to get everything updated.

Peace Amadi emerged the winner and has started her reign as Miss Nigeria in America 2007. She will work on implementing her platform which is 'Reaching out to the Abandoned, Abused and Orphaned Children of Nigeria.' She will also work on MNIA Programs. Congratulations to Peace Amadi... Check out www.mnia2007.com and www.missnigeriainamerica.org for more updates.

2007 MNIA Toy Drive - Benefiting the kids at Texas Children's Hospital - Houston

2007-09-05T07:23:00.001-07:00

On Saturday October 13, 2007 MNIA, Inc. will host the 3rd annual Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant in Houston Texas. This year, the charity organization we chose is Texas Children's Hospital and we are embarking on a Toy Drive to benefit the kids at Texas Children's Hospital.

The goal :- To raise 100 - 250 toys

If you live in the Houston Area, and you want to donate toys for this worthy cause, you can drop off your toys at

Finger Licking Restaurant
9817 N. Bissonnet Street, Houston, TX 77036
(713) 270 - 7070

Shanae's Place
9780 Bissonnet St # A Houston, TX 77036
(713) 995-5200

If you cannot get to those places, then you can donate $5.00 and we will purchase all toys on Wednesday, October 10, 2007.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

The toys will be donated by the 2007 Delegates for the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant on Friday, October 12, 2007.

Texas Children's Hospital is an internationally recognized full-care pediatric hospital located in the Texas Medical Center in Houston. One of the largest pediatric hospitals in the United States, Texas Children's Hospital is dedicated to providing the finest possible pediatric patient care, education and research.

MNIA Mission for Toy Drive

Our mission is to create a positive image for the Nigerian community, build a strong relationship within the Houston community and to promote the 2007 Delegates of the Miss Nigeria in America. We will also like to place a positive stamp in the hearts of the Houston community about MNIA, Inc. This will become a facilitator for us as we begin to build a positive brand in the Nigerian non profit industry. The chosen hospital for this year is the Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.

For more information about the toy drive, please click MNIA 2007 TOY DRIVE

40 Days to go.. Updates, Updates, Updates

2007-09-03T10:01:00.000-07:00

So we have 40 days to go.. 40 is a beautiful number.. A lot say "Life begins at 40"

"Forty days and forty nights" was the period Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, after which he was tempted by Satan.
Forty days was the period from Jesus' resurrection till his ascension into heaven.

In fact 40 is a blessing from God.. and the Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant is just 40 Days away..

So here we go.. Read the following and support!

Tickets

Tickets are on sale so CLICK HERE to purchase either regular or VIP Tickets and also Tickets for the Delegates Ball.

Voting Poll for favorite delegate

We have 16 beautiful delegates that will vie for the title - "Miss Nigeria in America 2007" Please go and vote for your favorite delegate and support them on October 13, 2007.

VOTE HERE FOR YOUR FAVORITE DELEGATE

Assignments

Go in and read the delegates assignments which deal with topics like Nigerian States, Self Esteem, Program Implementation. Read these great essays by the delegates and challenge yourselves by doing some of the assignments...

Journals

If you have never volunteered in your life before, we suggest you start giving back a portion of you time to give to the less fortunate. You can check out and find a volunteer organization in your area and give back. But while you are searching for what volunteer organization to join, read the incredible journals of the 2007 delegates and see how they are making a difference in society.

Again 40 days to go so please go and purchase your tickets and come and witness history as we crown the 3rd Miss Nigeria in America.

For more information about the pageant and to purchase tickets, please log on to

See you in Houston!!!!

The Buzz is on for the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America

2007-08-25T15:45:00.000-07:00

We have launched the new website and the buzz for the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America is ON.. We are very grateful to God for the strength and the wonderful team that we have. The new and improved marketing team - Kenneth Emeson [California], Michelle Ogunbode [Maryland], ChiChi Dike [California], and Onyinye Nwankwo [Houston, Texas] have done a marvellous job and they continue to push this great event. This year is bigger and better..

We have loaded all the pictures of the delegates on facebook and the new website. Please check them out and vote for your favorite delegate. Right now, we are putting finishing touches to the script for the show and we promise to bring you the best Nigerian entertainment show.

Please log on to for more information about the show, tickets and logistics for the main event. Please tell you friends, family and all those whom you know will support this great movement.

Here are some of the promotional materials that we have for the pageant

Keep checking back for more information as we continue to update you on the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant.

Official Fashion Designer....

2007-08-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

MNIA,Inc. is proud to present to you D'ure Designs -The Official Fashion Designer for the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant.

She is our guest blogger today and her designs would debut at the Fall of Signature Essence Fashion Show in Houston, Texas on August 18, 2007.
D'ure Designs will also be featured on October 12, 2007 at the Fashion Show that will be held in honor of the Miss Nigeria in America delegates. She will design the outfits the delegates will model that night at the event.

These are some of her designs. If you want to see more, check her out on August 18, 2007 or October 12, 2007 at the Delegates Gala for the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. For more information, you can email her at chiomanwogu80@yahoo.com
Blog by D'ure Design
"Design with ELEGANCE in Mind; Design with COMFORT in Mind; Design with YOU in Mind

Hello Ladies… My name is Chioma Adure Nwogu, The Creative Director of D’ure Designs. I am extremely excited to be working with the MNIA 2007 Team this year to create wonderful designs for the organization and for the delegates.

D’ure Designs celebrates the true and unique beauty of the woman. The pride that follows us everywhere we go. The beauty of being a woman of virtue no matter the size, shape or height. That is the beauty I love and I’m so proud to reveal through my designs. D’URE was taken out of my middle name "ADA+URE = ADURE", for those that remember how it is thought in Igbo classes. My grand father proudly gave me that name the very first time he saw me. A very close friend and sister helped me derive the name D’URE from ADURE; she knows herself and I say thank you for everything.
Everyone can be an ADURE if you look within yourself and find the Beauty that GOD has placed in you which makes you a D’ure Lady.

Elegance is key to being a D’ure Lady because my designs takes the natural elegance that you exude and brings it to life with the clothing.

Comfort is another key to being a D’ure Lady because it is very important that you are comfortable in the body that GOD gave you. Why not be elegantly comfortable with D’ure Designs

'You' is the last key to being a D’ure Lady because if you don’t see the beauty that GOD has placed in you no one will. Let your Elegance, your Comfort and You (beauty) follow you wherever you go. Proudly be a D’ure Lady!!!

My mission statement is:
-To design elegant outfits for Nigerian young adult female population in United States; Utilizing Nigerian and American Influences in order to bring out the best of both worlds.

Updates......

2007-08-06T22:53:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while we posted here. You can tell we have been so busy trying to get everything perfect for October 13, 2007. We had the delegates send their portraits and they are beautiful and very talented. We have collected almost all the talent sheets and it’s amazing what these girls are going to perform at the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant.

The delegates will start their volunteer work this week and it’s supposed to last 6 weeks. It is our goal to teach others how to be empathetic, to give back and spare some time in thier busy schedule to help those in need. The volunteer organizations that our delegates have chosen this year include the following:

1. British Heart Foundation – London, England
2. Ithaca Free Clinic – Ithaca, New York
3. Liberty International Ministries (Youth Department) – Ontario, California
4. Chicago Children's Museum – Chicago, Illinois
5. Developmental Learning Center – Nashville, Tennessee
6. Legal Aid of North Carolina - Greensboro, North Carolina
7. The Shepherd's Clinic, Inc., - Baltimore, Maryland
8. Franklin Plaza Nursing Home – Cleveland, Ohio
9. Knight of St. Columbus-Council 2505 – Lakeland, Florida
10. Cayuga Medical Center – Ithaca, New York
11. E&K Therapeutic & Learning Center (E&K TLC) – Silver Spring, Maryland
12. Sunrise Senior Living: Sunrise of Silver Spring – Silver Spring, Maryland
13. Chinese Community Center of Houston – Houston, Texas
14. Child Time Learning Centers – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
15. Second Mile Mission Center – Houston, Texas
16. Adventist Youth Society (AYS) – Houston, Texas
17. Dallas Weekly – Dallas, Texas
18. Brigid's Hope – Houston, Texas
19. The Restored Christian Ministries – Dallas, Texas
20. Ronald McDonald House of Houston, Inc. – Houston, Texas
21. Houston Food Bank – Houston, Texas
22. Youth Outreach Youth Organization – Houston, Texas
23. Adventist Health International - Umuahia, Abia State- Nigeria

We commend all delegates and wish them God’s blessings as they give of themselves to those in need. Please log on to the Miss Nigeria in America Event Website to follow them weekly as they provide you with a day-to-day synopsis of their activities.

For more information on the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant, please continue to check back for more updates as we get closer to the show.

Love,

MNIA 2007 Team

My Goodness...

2007-07-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Wow, trust Nigerians to wait to the last minute to do everything. We set out to do this year's pageant with [15] very qualified candidates. The official deadline for applications was July 1st, making it approximately a 2-month long window for anyone interested in applying. A week before the deadline, we had received 34 applications, however 20 more came in that last week. Exciting, but terribly overwhelming at the same time.

All applications go through a series of screenings. Everything about the application is scrutinized to see how the applicants followed the simple instructions. Normally, we tend to overlook little mishaps here and there, but with the amount of applications we got this year, there was no room for error. It literally came down to the simple minute details.

Of the 54 applications we received, 38 applicants made it to the interview phase, 18 of whom applied in the last week. The 38 applications were sent of to our selection committee [individuals across the US, from different works of lives]. Each member of the committee got an electronic folder of each candidate. In the folder, we included their original applications, the pictures the candidates submitted, and notes from their phone interviews. Each member of the committee had instructions on what the organization is looking for in candidates. They had the difficult job of ranking the candidates based on a number of points. When all committee members had finished their ranking, we now had to compare all the rankings and come up with our final selections. Remember we had intended to have 15 delegates, but the candidates this year are so on point, we ended up with...........24 Delegates!

It wasn't easy...but we have them. They know who they are and you'll find out very soon. We would like to thank everyone that helped us get the word out there and every one that applied. Now that we have our lovely ladies, we're switching our focus to preparing for the show. Houston...y'all need to start preparing for us too...SERIOUSLY!

CONGRATULATONS to the 2007 Miss Nigeria In America Beauty Pageant Delegates, you earned your spot, let the competition begin.

113 Days left..

2007-06-22T00:43:00.001-07:00

Well it’s been really busy this whole week and we can’t believe we are at the end of it already. Time goes by so fast. Can you believe the pageant is exactly 113 days away? It seems like there is still a lot to be done to make this production unique and spectacular [like we PROMISED]. This week, we mailed out some packages to potential corporate sponsors. The applications are still pouring in and there are more interviews to be scheduled. Its getting really exciting because the girls are just getting better and better.

We also secured the beautiful Houston Grande Plaza Hotel as the official hotel for the 2007 Miss Nigeria in America Beauty Pageant. We have a discount rate of $85.00 a night and you have to book by October 1, 2007. Please call 713/748-3221 and reference the Miss Nigeria in America Pageant.

This year, we're making a bigger program book and we are accepting requests for ads in the booklet
For those that want to place ads in the program book please email Event Manager-PR Officer - Michelle Ogunbode [michelle@missnigeriainamerica.org]

MNIA, Inc. is dedicating this event to God and we are putting everything in his hands because he is the MAIN DIRECTOR of this program. So put us in your prayers too and come out and support.

Gotta go back to work.. Later

The Introduction

2007-06-20T01:09:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, we're new to this blogging thing so bare with us. Yeah "us", this blog is a creation of MNIA, Inc. a non-profit organization who's mission is to empower and educate Nigerian women, with a concentration at those in the United States. There are different people involved with the organization who have access to post here, thus the "US." Ok, so why the blog? Simple, in the course of finding a way to promote our events, especially the upcoming Miss Nigeria In America Beauty Pageant, scheduled for October 13th, 2007 in Houston, we came across a lot of blogs, and it was a no brainer that perhaps this will give us yet another platform to spread the word about our organization, programs and events.

Not only that, we figured it would be fun to share some of the "insider" information, of course nothing that will influence the outcome of the pageant. Right now, things are really heating up as the application deadline is fast approaching and the applications are pouring in...trust naijas to wait to the last minute. Well, they still have about two weeks though. July 1st is the absolute deadline. With the amount of applicantions that came in already , we wish we can just close it now because we have so many well qualified candidates but very limited number of space for delegates.

Anyway, we'll try our best to keep this updated as much as we can. At this time, 17 out of 50 candidates have made it through to the interview stage with just a few more scheduled. After the interviews, the board of directors will review the applications and carefully deliberate before eventually making the final selections. Right now, provisions have been made for 15 delegates but with the quality of young ladies still applying we might be forced to increase that number. If you're interested in learning more about the organization, please log on to MNIA, Inc. Online and if you want to apply, check out MNIA 2007 Beauty Pageant. The final candidates will be announced the first week of July at which time, the [later] website will be updated to reflect more about this year's show.

The theme for this year's pageant is "Celebrating the Beauty and Excellence of the Nigerian woman." The candidates this year, like in previous years, will embody all that and some.

Ok, time to get back to work...but check back for updates. We'll share the production process as best we can and we hope to see you there.

To get in touch with the organization, please write to:
MNIA, Inc. or Cladiya Entertainment LLC @ 9107 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 450, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 or email info@missnigeriainamerica.org. You can also call 310.926.2316 or 213.593.9704.