The power of one: How Ify Uzokwe is uplifting women, communities, and the vulnerable

For Ify Uzokwe, service is not a role, it is a lifestyle. A lawyer, counsellor, philanthropist, and advocate for women, she is driven by a deep passion to touch lives and uplift communities. With over two decades of experience in the legal profession, Ify has built a formidable reputation at the Ministry of Justice, where she continues to serve with dedication and integrity. Yet, her impact goes far beyond the walls of her office.

A proud member of the Nigerian Bar Association, FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers), and the Association of Professional Negotiators & Mediators of Nigeria, Ify has made her mark professionally. But she is equally, if not more, renowned for her influence in grassroots women-led initiatives and non-governmental organizations, where she channels her energy into empowering others.

“I’ve always been passionate about inspiring and helping people,” she says. “It’s not about the titles, it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.”

That passion has found expression in numerous associations where she has taken on leadership roles. She is president of the Ozubulu Diamond Sisters Women Initiative (ODSI), Women of Likeminds for God, and the Sisterly Vibes Support Network Initiative. She also leads the Umuokpu Amakwa Forum, a cultural and spiritual group of women from her village, and serves as the Vice Chairman of the National Association of Catholic Lawyers, Festac chapter.

Each of these groups has a unique purpose, but they all share one common thread: community upliftment.

ODSI, for instance, was formed by women married into the town of Ozubulu in Anambra State. The group identifies developmental needs and pools resources to implement lasting solutions. “It’s a platform for women of substance to give back,” Ify explains. “We’re currently completing an old people’s home project, which will not only care for the elderly but also create jobs in the community.”

Women of Likeminds for God, founded more than 11 years ago, was birthed from a personal vision. “I shared the idea with a few women, and they embraced it,” she recalls. “Our mission is to showcase God’s love and help those who are hurting.” Since inception, the group has visited orphanages, hospitals, prisons, and care homes, providing food, financial support, medical bills, and capital for widows to start businesses. “It’s fulfilling to be God’s hand extended,” she says with humility.

Sisterly Vibes Support Network is another vibrant initiative, built on the strength of sisterhood and shared goals. The network brings together like-minded women to form a reliable support system, offering encouragement, empowerment, and practical help. “We are planning symposiums and empowerment programs that address social challenges and promote personal development,” Ify notes.

Ify’s involvement in the Umuokpu Amakwa Forum also reflects her cultural pride and commitment to unity. Made up of women from her native village, the forum blends spirituality with financial and moral support for its members. “We contribute to each other’s well-being, spiritually and materially. We’ve been active for six years now.”

These initiatives are not her first. Before leading these groups, she was the president of the Ozubulu Development Union, Lagos Branch (Women’s Wing), where she raised the standard of leadership and inspired a new level of transparency and accountability.

Asked why so many organizations choose her as their president, Ify responds modestly, “Honestly, I don’t know. But I believe they see something, maybe it’s my transparency, accountability, tolerance, or honesty. Whatever it is, I don’t take it for granted. I serve with all my heart.”

Leadership, especially in all-women groups, comes with its challenges. But Ify sees them as opportunities for growth. “There have been hitches, of course,” she admits, “but each one makes us stronger and more united. Since joining these groups, it’s been from glory to glory.”

In her legal profession, Ify continues to give back. Through her role in the National Association of Catholic Lawyers (Festac chapter), she helps organize regular legal clinics that provide free legal advice to indigent individuals. “We advise people on their rights, offer guidance, and even take on some of their cases pro bono,” she says. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to see someone walk in burdened and leave feeling lighter.”

Looking ahead, Ify envisions a more structured, strategic, and impactful future for the organizations she leads. “We want to deepen member engagement, complete more projects, and create employment opportunities,” she explains. “In this part of the world, some people still believe women don’t amount to much. But we are changing that narrative.”

For women facing challenges, Ify offers heartfelt encouragement. “Everyone has something they are battling with,” she says. “But you must remain optimistic, focused, and determined. Don’t let challenges weigh you down, use them as your stepping stone.”

She adds, “When I face something too heavy to bear, I drop it at God’s feet. I’m a prayerful woman, and He’s never disappointed me.”

In a world that often overlooks the quiet power of women’s leadership, Ify Uzokwe stands tall, proving that compassion, resilience, and service can indeed transform lives and reshape communities.