This week, the spotlight is on Chelsea Iweanyi, a trailblazer from Akwukwu-Igbo in Oshimili North Local Government Are of Delta State. A proud graduate of Political Science from Anambra State University, Igbariam Campus; Chelsea undertook her National Youth Service (NYSC) at the Yarkasuwa Village of Lere Local Government Secretariat in Saminaka, Kaduna State. During this time, she spearheaded the renovation of an abandoned community primary health care center (PHC), a project that cost over N5.4 million. Having completed her service in April 2024, Chelsea opens up about her remarkable journey and the motivation behind her impactful work. In this interview with our Woman Editor, RITA OYIBOKA, this young iconic amazon reflected on her passions and the underlining inspiration into what she has done so and plans to sustain the relative achievement recorded over time
Tell us about yourself and what was university life like?
My name is Iweanyi Chelsea Amaka. I’m the third of six kids of family of eight, though we’ve lost one brother, so now we’re five. I’m from Oshimili-North local government area of Delta State. I love singing, dancing and writing songs. As the eldest daughter in the Jesse Azuka Iweanyi family, I studied Political Science at the Anambra State University. My university years were tough but incredibly educational, like a mirror revealing hidden potential within me.
What was it like going to serve your nation; did you have plans to do anything special during your service year?
I always had plans to leave a legacy in any place I find myself. It wasn’t easy to find a voice, but NYSC gave me a voice and platform. I really put in everything to serve humanity first.
Briefly describe the community you were posted to. What inspired your decision to renovate the Community Hospital?
I was posted to Yarkasuwa village in Lere Local Government, Kaduna State. The loss of my elder brother in 2015 deeply inspired me alot. He suddenly fell sick around the time that he was preparing for his wedding. Sadly, he died in our living room because we couldn’t afford his medical bills. It was especially heartbreaking because no one knew him.
The primary healthcare facility in Yarkasuwa village was initially planned in 1982 by Chief Muruku Agaji, who was then the chairman of the local government council. It was eventually built by his successor, Dr. L.M. Soni, in 1987 and for years it provided essential health services to thousands of locals. Sadly, a rainstorm destroyed the facility in 2013. The community had been without a hospital for over a decade, suffering immensely in the process and it remained in disrepair until I took action to put it proper shape.
Originally, I had envisioned building a hospital in honour of my late brother. However, upon discovering the dilapidated state of this primary healthcare center and observing how pregnant women and sick children had to travel far for treatment, I decided to focus on this project instead of my initial plan.
With support from well-meaning individuals, the re-roofing of the building, installation of ceilings and windows, repainting and renovation of the hospital into a 14-room health facility was successfully realized.
How did you get the funds to carry out this project; did you do it alone, or did you do it with other corps members?
I did the project on my own. I traveled all over Kaduna State to raise funds from religious and political figures and I also received support from traditional leaders in the Lere Local Government Area. Initially, I estimated the project would cost around N8 million, but I managed to complete it for about N5 million, through prudent application of fund.
What was the whole experience like? We have heard some stories about individuals wanting to help improve communities but either members or the leaders of such communities frustrate their efforts. Did you encounter such challenges while executing this project?
I faced a lot of challenges during the process of undertaking the project. At first, a lot of persons weren’t supportive because the project was new to the village. I was the first to undertake and complete something like that. The cost of transportation was a significant hurdle and I encountered resistance from people who doubted me. Language barriers were also an issue, as many couldn’t speak English coupled with the fact there was some tribalism and distrust towards Christians.
It was tough then. Many thought I wouldn’t even start the project, let alone finish it and they couldn’t believe that an ordinary corps member could pull something like this off. Initially, the chairman of the local government didn’t take my efforts seriously. However, when he saw the progress I was making and my determination, he had no choice but to offer the necessary support to ensure its realisation.
How would you describe the feeling of seeing the project you envisioned come to life?
It felt surreal and deeply fulfilling. The community gathered around me and prayed, showing their gratitude and joy. They felt incredibly blessed and happy, as it had been years since they’d seen something like this. Their happiness was evident and it indeed a rare moment I’ll never forget in life.
Has carrying out charity endeavours been a part of your personality?
Yes. I have a deep passion for giving, even if it means offering everything I have. For me, giving isn’t just about material things; it’s about sharing what I can, no matter how small or limited it might be. I believe that even a small act of generosity can make a big difference and I’m always willing to give my last card, so to speak, because I truly value the impact of helping others.
After service, what career path did you embark on?
After service, I returned to Lagos State where my parents live. Right now, I teach in a school.
What are your dreams and aspirations, do you intend on doing charity on a bigger scale?
Yes, I plan to dive into charity on a large scale. My goal is to support drug addicts and assist the disabled in the society. It won’t be an easy task, that I know but I genuinely believe I’m meant to make a difference in people’s lives. I also aspire to enter politics to drive meaningful change in the country. I really look up to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a mentor and source of inspiration.
What do you think is the biggest lesson you took from your service year?
The lesson is that wherever young people find themselves, they should strive to leave a lasting legacy at the end and make a meaningful impact. Touching lives is one of the sole proprietorships of living.
What advice do you have for aspiring or recently appointed corps members who want to make an impact but aren’t sure how to go about it?
The most important thing is to start with prayer and seek guidance to ensure it aligns with God’s will. Be confident and believe that you can turn your dreams into reality. Trust in yourself, ask questions and pray for God’s direction in connecting with the right people.
Do you believe the NYSC Scheme and Corps members play a role in driving the change Nigerians seek?
Yes, I felt like no one believed in me before, but the NYSC scheme gave me a platform and voice to speak out and discover my hidden potential. It truly helped me make a positive impact on many lives and bless numerous communities. Unfortunately, many youths become frustrated after service and school when they struggle to find good-paying jobs. This frustration can lead to negative behaviors like smoking and drinking, ultimately becoming a burden to the community.
If you have 12 months to lead Nigeria, in what capacity will you want to seek your perspective and what will you try to resolve?
First, I’d focus on setting up businesses in various areas to create job opportunities for young people. Keeping them busy with meaningful work can help prevent them from falling into negative behaviors. I know this won’t be easy, but I’m passionate about helping the youth because I am one and I understand the struggles of navigating life after academic programmes . Like I always tell people, it’s never easy going it alone and I want to make a difference by providing support and opportunities to the young elements, most of whom lack support base to break their limitations.
