Initiatives & Programs

Igbo Cultural Connection Series

The UIA Igbo Cultural Connection Series (ICCS) is a series of discussion sessions in which Igbos, especially younger Igbos, interested in learning more about their culture have an opportunity to do so in a relaxed and open environment. UIA realizes that the majority of our constituents may not know as much as they should or would like to know about their own culture. UIA strongly believes that those who display pride in their culture should know their culture well! In this spirit, we have initiated the cultural connection series where members of the older Igbo community volunteer their time to discuss a particular topic of Igbo cultural significance. Some included topics are:

We welcome any and all suggestions for topic events. At these sessions, those who have come to learn can enjoy food and fellowship as well as freely ask questions and discuss the topic with our Igbo "experts". Through this initiative, Igbos in general can strengthen ties to their culture.

Igbo Kwenu!

Umu Igbo Alliance Southeastern Nigeria Health Initiative

Malaria and HIV/AIDS are diseases that majorly impact Nigeria. While efforts have been made to combat these diseases, the majority of the efforts have been concentrated in Northern and Western parts of the country. The Southeastern Nigeria Health Initiative stems from an acute need to disseminate pertinent information to those populations most adversely affected by HIV/AIDS and Malaria. The goal of SENHI is to establish a continuous public health literacy program through which the populations in Southeastern Nigeria can benefit from resources provided by SENHI, eventually decreasing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and Malaria. SENHI also seeks to establish a training program that would allow members of the community to teach about Malaria and HIV/AIDS.

Members of the committee are in a medical related field, but you need not have prior experience in medicine to contribute. If you are interested in becoming part of this project, please send an email to service@umuigboalliance.org with "SENHI project" in the subject line. We will be in touch with you soon.

Dalu nu!

Beauty for Ashes Women Ministry International

Beauty for Ashes Women Ministry International (BAWMI) is a non-profit Christian organization operating primarily in Abia State, Nigeria, but headquartered in Frankfort, IL. BAWMI’s vision is to empower and strengthen widows, divorced, unwed mothers, orphans, hurting, abused, and disadvantaged women with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Ministry goals are to educate women in computer and media technology, fashion design, cosmetology, crafts, knitting, clerical, office management, childcare, healthcare, home, business and fiscal management. BAWMI also seeks to develop mentoring relationships, provide spiritual counseling and educational support for women and children. BAWMI strives to empower and equip these women with resources that enable them to manage and improve the quality of family life, encourages them to take leadership responsibilities and challenges, and encourages them to serve the Lord in the church and the community.

Members of Umu Igbo Alliance work with BAWMI to help with fundraising efforts, and assist with outreach initiatives. BAWMI links Ndi Igbo in Nigeria with those of us in the United States and together we form a partnership that benefits Ndi Igbo as a whole.

This ministry is an excellent experience especially for those seeking experience in social work, healthcare, public health, and counseling but people of all backgrounds and interests are welcome to assist in the vision to empower Igbo women and families.

Please visit www.bawim.org for more information. Also, send an email to oluchuku23@yahoo.com or call (708) 539-8220.