Paying It Forward
When my uncle, who owns Nuraih Holy Family International School in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria, casually suggested I sponsor some kids who can’t afford to attend school, it planted a seed in my mind. “Why not?” he asked. But how could I turn this into a trophy for my late mother and father? His words stayed with me. You see, in some parts of the world, if your family can’t pay your school fees, you simply don’t go. Full stop. No “free public education,” no fallback plan. That stark reality hit home because of my dad’s stories about school fees and how lucky we were. I also remember how his own mother had to sell a house to help him get to America so that he could go to college.
His suggestion reminded me of the sacrifices my own parents made to ensure I had opportunities to thrive. Growing up, I saw firsthand what sacrifice looks like. My dad was a degreed pharmacist with a Master of Public Administration degree, yet I remember watching him put on a Domino’s uniform and head to work delivering pizzas. This is where I got the philosophy of “Not Being Above an Honest Day’s Pay.” As a kid, I didn’t have a clue what was going on, but as an adult, I can do nothing but respect it. For him, providing for our family and paying the bills was the priority. He was relentless, determined, and humble — a man who knew that no job was beneath him if it meant his family could thrive. We even moved from Houston, TX to Portsmouth, VA just so he could finally work in his field. I come from him.
My mom had a degree in accounting, but I vividly recall her working long hours at Walgreens, often standing behind the counter with a smile, even when she was tired. Her degree never hung on the wall, but the reality of life as an immigrant in the U.S. meant doing whatever it took to support her family. There was one time she came home, exhausted after a double shift, yet still found time to help me with a school project. That’s who she was — unyielding in her love and support. I come from her.
Watching their relentless efforts instilled in me a fierce determination to excel in everything I pursued. My parents were the quintessential Nigerian immigrants: resourceful, driven, and absolute zealots about education. They believed academics were the cure-all for life’s ailments, and as their child, I had no choice but to get with the program. Lucky for them, I’m ridiculously competitive. I didn’t just want to ace the math test — I wanted to annihilate it. Then I’d hit the football field or wrestling mat to show everyone who was boss there, too. The results? Top 10 in my high school class, National Honor Society member, All-State football player, and All-State wrestler. Choo choooooooo.
About the Ekenem-Nomso Educational Legacy Trust
The Ekenem-Nomso Educational Legacy Trust is a charitable initiative dedicated to honoring the enduring legacy of Ekenem and Nomso Uraih. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to empower the next generation of Nigerian youth through education. By providing annual scholarships and covering school fees, the Trust ensures that children in need, particularly in the Asaba region, have the opportunity to pursue their dreams without financial barriers.
Key Objectives:
- Access to Education: Ensuring that no child is denied education due to financial hardship.
- Legacy of Learning: Honoring Ekenem’s commitment to health and Nomso’s passion for teaching by investing in young minds.
- Regional Focus: Supporting communities in Asaba and other underserved areas of Nigeria.
For the price of what many spend on a luxury vacation or a flashy Instagram-worthy splurge, this Trust can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Five children have already benefited from its support, and this is just the beginning.
Now, before you start polishing a halo for me, let’s get one thing clear: I’m no saint. I’m just a guy who believes in taking care of his own and making an impact where he can. For the price of a ridiculously lavish international vacation or a flashy Instagram-worthy purchase that screams, “Look how amazing my life is!” I’ve been able to support five kids — FIVE — and keep my parents’ legacy alive. That is how I brag these days.
My late father, who delivered pizzas, drove cabs all to provide for us, and my mother, who worked tirelessly at Walgreens, gave everything they had to ensure I had opportunities. They embodied the spirit of sacrifice and resilience, and this trust feels like the least I can do to honor them and help kids who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Through this trust, their story doesn’t end — it inspires countless others. Maybe one day they will have more college paper than me.
I call it Paying it Forward — simple as that. It’s about being the change agent i’ve always believed the world needs. If we’re not willing to invest in our communities, who will? So here’s to education, to legacy, and to kicking ass (both on math tests and in real life). Join me if you can. Together, we can turn the ripple of one trust into a wave of opportunity for countless kids in Nigeria. Blah blah blah.
Mommy I love you. Daddy I love you. As long as I live, you will too.
