Ufuoma (Ufuomaee) Emerhor: Born to write and impact lives

Ufuoma (Ufuomaee) Emerhor

Some people are made writers, others learn how to write, and then there are born writers. Ufuoma (Ufuomaee) Emerhor belongs to the latter. She started writing poetry at first before delving into fiction, writing High School romance stories after encountering romance novels. However, she didn't keep up with that and never published her stories. Fuelling her passion, she refined her craft and ventured back to her old love for writing after returning from the United Kingdom to Nigeria. 

Ufuoma is the Founder of Fair Life Africa Foundation. We met over a cup of coffee and snacks at a Lagos event (precisely at the Africa Social Impact Summit). During our conversation, I learnt about her organisation, which caters for vulnerable children, empowering them by linking them with sponsors. In my mind, this will make a good story that people can get inspired by and learn from.

Her work, which is her ministry, stemmed from the Bible verse that says true religion is to care for orphans and widows. I had to search Google to know the exact book; this is found in James Chapter 1, verse 7. She has published over 30 books and counting. There is a new addition presently. It is now out and free to read at https://ufuomaee.com/who-killed-nnamdi.

Omote Ro Dhe had a chat with this remarkable lady. Read excerpts below:

You wear many hats—writer, blogger, CEO, and entrepreneur. How did your journey into these different fields begin?

Well, I was born a writer! I mostly wrote poetry when I was younger, and started dabbling in fiction after I got exposed to High School romance books, but nothing I wrote was worth saving then. I rediscovered my love for writing after I came back to Nigeria from the UK and started Fair Life Africa Foundation. I took to blogging, which was popular then. I also learnt how to design websites after I created my first blog. I decided to design a website for Fair Life Africa, and from that experience, I was able to offer such help to other organizations through Ufuomaee Business Solutions. While doing these, I kept blogging and began to tell a story series on my blog. This led to me publishing 30+ books since The Church Girl in 2017.

What inspired you to start Fair Life Africa Foundation, and how has the organization impacted women and children?  

I wanted the work I do to be ministry, and I was inspired by the scripture which says, "True religion is to care for orphans and widows." We have operated a few initiatives since we began rescuing street children and reconciling them with their families in 2011. We now link vulnerable children with sponsors who donate to support their education. Through The Spring Initiative, our newest initiative, we offer help to anyone in need by raising funds for their causes. This has allowed us to help women with specific needs who have reached out to us.

Who are the women who have inspired or mentored you along your journey?

DDK, Anietie Bature, Wendy Ologe, and Ijeoma Adesanya come to mind. In different areas, from business to parenting to marriage, they have given me nuggets to live by.

Outside of work, you enjoy movies and books. Any favorites that have influenced your perspective on empowerment and resilience?

I am inspired by Erin Brokovich's story. It's the only one I can think of that addresses women's empowerment and resilience. Usually, I watch films for relaxation and enjoyment, and I particularly love action movies and romcoms. I can't get enough of Columbiana, Mr and Mrs Smith, and The Break Up.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Take your time to think it over. You don't have to rush to make a decision worth making.

Success is relative. What does it mean to you? Who are some women who are your yardstick of being successful?

Success for me would be achieving world renown for my talents, which allows me to write for a living and spend time with my family without concern for money.

What advice do you have for younger girls pursuing purpose?
There is room for you to shine and time for that too. Don't worry about what others are doing. Be intentional about your growth.