Welcome to My Short Story
Biochemist: Lecturer
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Chidiuso Ekwenugo
Growing up in the vibrant city of Onitsha, Anambra State, as the first child among seven children of Engr and Mrs. Peter Orji, my journey has been a blend of Christianity, tradition and modernity. As a biochemist and lecturer, I am deeply passionate about science and education. Married to a wonderful husband, our family is blessed with three amazing boys. My curious and creative nature drives me to explore new cultures, and I have a keen interest in volleyball, where I find teamwork and strategy, music, where I explore different genres, and technology, where I stay abreast of cutting-edge developments. Each of these interests fuels my enthusiasm for lifelong learning and personal growth."
Heritage and Roots
Anambra
Anambra, located in southeastern Nigeria, derives its name from "Omambala," the Igbo term for the Anambra River, a tributary of the River Niger. With Awka as its capital and Onitsha as its largest urban center, Anambra State is known as the "Light of the Nation. A significant cultural tradition in Anambra and throughout Igboland is the New Yam Festival, locally called Ịwa Ji, Iri Ji, Ike Ji, or Otite, depending on the dialect. This annual festival, celebrated in August and September, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new farming season. It unites Igbo communities worldwide, drawing Ndi Igbo from abroad back to their roots to partake in this cultural event
Umuawulu
In Umuawulu my home of birth, part of the Awka South council area, the New Yam Festival is celebrated with pride. The community, blessed with ample land, engages in substantial yam and crop cultivation, making the festival a meaningful and vibrant tradition that highlights their agricultural heritage. It's pertinent to note that Umuawulu is known for special palmwine and anu nchi (grasscutter),a special delicacy which attracts many visitors to Umuawulu Kingdom from far and near daily
Family Stories and Tradition
Growing up in a devout Catholic home, I was immersed in the
principles of Christianity from an early age. My parents
instilled in me values such as honesty and empathy, which I am now imparting to my own children. These values form the core of our family's moral compass. A cherished family tradition is our communal meal during Christmas and New Year’s Day ,where we all eat from a single pot. The celebration on January 1st holds particular significance; it begins with a Thanksgiving Mass to express our gratitude for the past year and to seek blessings for the new one. This tradition not only marks the festive season but also brings our entire family together, reinforcing our bonds and unity.
Personal Journey and Milestone
In 2011, I was posted to Jalingo, Taraba State, for my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This experience was transformative. I vividly recall participating actively, commanding the Nigerian flag bearers, leading my platoon (Platoon 10) in parades, and serving as the volleyball captain for my platoon. These roles gave me a recognition and earned me a teaching position in one of Jalingo's schools. During my youth service, I also met my wonderful husband, marking a pivotal moment in my personal life.My first job as a graduate was as a classroom teacher in Jalingo. This position marked the beginning of my teaching career, which has evolved into my current role as a lecturer. I continue to learn
and develop new skills to enhance my professional journey.
Looking Forward: My Future Aspirations
As I reflect on my journey from Umuawulu, Anambra State, and my transformative experiences, I am inspired to
shape a future grounded in my rheritage and identity. My goals encompass both personal growth and professional advancement. I aim to excel in academia, aspiring to become a distinguished professor in biochemistry and a Data Scientist. My experience as a lecturer has fueled my passion for teaching and Data research. I plan to contribute to scientific knowledge by exploring innovative biochemical research, focusing on areas that can impact health and technology. Additionally, I am committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists, fostering curiosity and a love for learning in my students. My heritage has instilled in me a deep appreciation for family and community. I envision continuing the tradition of sharing my values of honesty and empathy with my children, ensuring they grow up with a strong moral foundation. I also hope to explore more cultures, blending my Igbo traditions with new experiences, enriching my family’s cultural tapestry. I plan to support educational programs in rural areas, providing resources and mentorship to young students, especially in the sciences. By doing so, I aim to give back to my community and contribute to its growth. Ultimately, I dream of balancing a fulfilling career with a vibrant family life, creating a legacy that honors my roots while embracing new opportunities. I hope to become a role model for my children and students, demonstrating how one's heritage and identity can shape and elevate their aspirations. My journey is a testament to the strength of my heritage and the influence of my family and personal experiences. As I look to the future, I am excited to blend my cultural identity with my professional ambitions, creating a meaningful and impactful life.
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Reach Out to Me
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chidiuso-ekwenugo-69bb6b190
(+2348133077147
chidiuso09@gmail.com
Phone
(+2348135500329)