MEET THE PANELISTS


MEET THE PANELISTS!

Urenna Egu  

BA Pol Science (c 2026) 

BA AA Studies (c 2026) 

Black Pre Law Journal Writer Kappa Alpha Pi Pre Law Fraternity

Kikachukwu (Kika) Ifeanyi-Agboifo   

BA Psychology (c. 2026) MS Neuroscience (c. 2028)  

African Students Association member Humanitarian, Health & Wellness Enthusiast

Uchenna Obih  

BS Cognitive Science, minor in Accounting (class of 2025) 

Black Business Student Association Co-Communications Director ‘23 Afrikan Student Union Historian ‘23

Nnenna Obih  

UCLA '2023 GRADUATE 

 PRE- MED STUDENT

Nigerian Student Coalition Conference External Chair ‘23 

Afrikan Student Union External Public Relations Coordinator ‘20-‘22

"The Culture Series - Episodes 8, 9 &10: Navigating Life as a Nigerian-American Black Woman in the Developed World."


In the eighth episode of "The Culture Series," we delve into the complex and multifaceted journey of young adulthood as a Nigerian-American black woman living in the developed world. This episode offers an insightful exploration into the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who straddle the intersection of their African heritage and American identity.


**Embracing Blackness**: One of the primary aspects explored is the perception and presentation of identity. These individuals are often packaged as "black" in society, which shapes how they are perceived by others. Their expertise, honed through the lens of this identity, encompasses navigating a world that often has preconceived notions about what it means to be black in America.


**Daily Struggles and Triumphs**: Viewers will gain insight into the daily struggles faced by these young women. These challenges can range from navigating systemic inequalities and biases to combating stereotypes and microaggressions. However, amid these challenges, they celebrate triumphs that showcase their resilience, determination, and the strength of their communities.


**The Power of Naija Culture**: The episode highlights the invaluable benefits of their Nigerian culture. These individuals draw strength from their rich heritage, which includes a vibrant tapestry of traditions, music, cuisine, and familial bonds. Their culture becomes a source of pride, unity, and resilience in the face of adversity. However, it also presents unique challenges, such as the pressure to uphold certain cultural norms and expectations.


**Defining Identity**: In this episode, viewers are given an opportunity to understand how these Nigerian-American black women define themselves and their roles in society. They explore questions of identity, embracing their multifaceted backgrounds, and finding a sense of belonging in a world that often simplifies their complex identities.


**Sharing Their Truth**: Ultimately, the participants in this episode share what they want the world to know about them. They dispel stereotypes, challenge misconceptions, and offer a nuanced perspective on their lives as Nigerian-American black women. Their stories serve as a testament to the richness of diversity within the black diaspora and the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the unique identities and experiences of each individual.


In "The Culture Series - Episode 8: Navigating Life as a Nigerian-American Black Woman in the Developed World," viewers are invited to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and cultural celebration. It is an episode that sheds light on the experiences of a vibrant and diverse group of individuals, allowing their voices to be heard and their stories to be shared with the world.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE!

EPISODES THREE, Four & Five: 

"Identity and Colorism: Shades of Identity and the Unveiling, Across Groups." 

Meet the PANELISTS

Weruche Uzoka (George) was born in Lagos, Nigeria. She's a human rights advocate, poet, activist, journalist, author, and founder. She naturalized almost 10 years ago on June 20th, as an American citizen.  Her college professor once said about her:  "If I had to put this effect into words, I’d say that she makes other people better versions of themselves." John M. Gourlie - Quinnipiac. 2016.

 Weruche has an MA in Human Rights Studies from Columbia University in the City of New York and an MS in Journalism from Quinnipiac University. 



Ijeoma Ijeaku MD MPH DFAPA is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. She is a self-proclaimed lifelong learner of identity and how that influences human behavior.  

She is an Associate Professor at the UC Riverside School of Medicine where she engages her trainees in understanding the influence of psychosocial factors in the development of mental illness.

Ajarat Bada has 15+ years of experience consulting, managing teams, leading start-ups, and managing multi-million dollar projects for organizations like Kaiser Permanente, Qatar Foundation, and the United Nations. 

I speak 4 languages and have a keen interest in Mountaineering. As I continue to invest in my career, find me in a hospital, in a design studio, at a conference, on a plane or at my home office. 

Born and raised in Nigeria and the United States, many places around the world can be called home. 

Meatballs and Salad for dinner, anyone?

Nwakerendu Waboso is a 4th year Ph.D. (c)  in the dept. of Child and Youth studies at Brock University, Ontario, Canada. Her primary research interests include decolonization in education, and deconstructing racism, within educational policy and curriculum. Her secondary research interests include Critical disability studies, social justice, and community mental health. Nwakerendu locates herself as a trans-disciplinary scholar and her perspective is informed by her 3 primary school-aged children who inspire her stance as an advocate for diversity, equity inclusion, and accessible options for children and youth - particularly black children and youth as an equity-seeking group. Nwakerendu hails from the Igbo tribe in Nigeria, in Western Africa.

EPISODE TWO -"Unveiling the Mosaic of Africa"

In the captivating second episode of "The Culture Series," aired on May 25th in celebration of Africa Day, author of the Princess Naku Series - Weruche Uzoka (George) and Moderator - Ijeoma Ijeaku Egu - embark on a rich and enlightening exploration of the diverse cultures and histories of Africa. This thought-provoking episode, brimming with knowledge and insights, takes viewers on an enthralling journey through various regions, including the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) countries, and uncovers the lesser-known narratives of Africa's contributions to World War II.

 Unveiling untold narratives and unsung heroes, the hosts reveal the remarkable stories of Prince Irona, an Igbo soldier. Viewers gain a fresh perspective on this global conflict, discovering the bravery and sacrifices made by African men and women who experienced war.

"The Culture Series: Episode 2 - Unveiling the Mosaic of Africa" weaves together a rich tapestry of cultural exploration, literary appreciation, and historical revelation. Weruche Uzoka George and Ijeoma Ijeaku Egu skillfully navigate through the diverse landscapes of Africa, inviting viewers to celebrate the continent's vibrant diversity, engage with its captivating narratives, and gain a deeper understanding of its profound influence on the world stage.

Join the ladies of the show on this captivating journey as "The Culture Series: Episode 2 - Unveiling the Mosaic of Africa" uncovers the many facets of Africa's rich heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for its cultural treasures and igniting a sense of pride in its remarkable contributions to the global community.

 Poem by David Diop written in 1956:

 "Africa my Africa 

Africa of proud warriors in ancestral Savannahs 

Africa of whom my grandmother sings 

On the banks of the distant river 

I have never known you 

But your blood flows in my veins 

Your beautiful black blood that irrigates the fields 

The blood of your sweat 

The sweat of your work 

The work of your slavery 

Africa, tell me Africa

 Is this your back that is bent 

This back that breaks under the weight of humiliation 

This back trembling with red scars 

And saying yes to the whip under the midday sun? 

But a grave voice answers me 

Impetuous child that tree, young and strong 

That tree over there 

Splendidly alone amidst white and faded flowers 

That is your Africa springing up anew springing up patiently, obstinately 

Whose fruit bit by bit acquires 

The bitter taste of liberty." 

EPISODE ONE - "Princess NAKU SERIES"

In the inaugural episode of "The Culture Series," featuring Weruche Uzoka George, the esteemed author and creative director behind the enchanting Princess Naku Series, and moderated by Dr. Ijeoma Ijeaku Egu, a distinguished Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, the focus turns to the inception of this captivating literary world. 

With a spotlight on intuition, inspiration, and the remarkable journey of bringing the Princess Naku Series to life, the author delves into the intuitive depths of creativity. Delightfully transcending boundaries, this episode explores the profound development of intuition and its role in crafting the exceptional African children's books. 

Join us as we embark on an extraordinary adventure into the realm of princesses, Africa, and the limitless power of imagination. 

#africa #africanbooks #princess #princessnakuseries #creativity #goingbeyond #intuition #intuitiondevelopment #childrensbooks 

What is the Culture Series?

The Culture Series is a thought-provoking and insightful collection of conversations, focused on the creation of the Princess Naku series.  Moderated by Dr. Ijeoma Ijeaku Egu, a distinguished Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, the show features Weruche Uzoka (George), the esteemed author and creative director behind the enchanting Princess Naku Series.

 The series serves as a tool for exploring topics of race, Africa, and the diaspora, while also providing a platform for discussing cultural nuances, language, and more. Through engaging and in-depth discussions, listeners are invited to dive into the rich and complex world of Princess Naku, while also exploring the broader cultural context in which the series is set. Each episode of the Culture Series delves into specific themes and topics, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical context, and expert insights to create a dynamic and multifaceted exploration of the issues at hand. 


Topics might range from the importance of preserving indigenous languages to the legacy of colonialism in African literature to how children's books can provide a window into diverse cultural experiences. Overall, the Culture Series offers a space for listeners to broaden their perspectives, challenge their assumptions, and deepen their understanding of the complex and multifaceted world in which we live. Whether you are a seasoned scholar of African literature, or simply curious to learn more about the experiences of those who inhabit this world, the Culture Series has something to offer.

 

Got questions? Want to collaborate? Reach us at:



thecultureseriesshow@gmail.com