Part 2: 30 Most Notable Africans of 2013
18 Jan 2014
#2. ROSE IHEDIGBO-FRANKLIN
Country of Origin: Nigeria
What: It has been said that behind any successful man, is a strong woman. In the case of Dr. Rose Ihedigbo-Franklin, this saying would need to be amended to include “many” successful men. If you’re an American football fan, then the name Ihedigbo might sound familiar. James Ihedigbo is the star safety for the 2012 Super Bowl Champions, the Baltimore Ravens, as well as the founder of the Hope for Africa Foundation, which helps provide educational services for underprivileged communities in Africa. But make no mistake, his mother is a force to be reckoned with in her own right. Besides being a proud mother of five and an accomplished educator herself, she co-founded the Nigerian American Technological and Agricultural College (NATAC) in 1999 with her late husband Apollos. NATAC is working in Nigeria to equip the country’s young people to support themselves, contribute to society, and provide a better life for their families.
Why I’m Inspired: Published in 2013, Dr. Ihedigbo's book, Sandals in the Snow, is a glimpse into the life of a newly-arrived African family in the U.S. trying to make their way in a society that doesn’t understand their colorful clothing, loud and aggressive talk, and strange food. As an African immigrant myself, I was able to relate to many of the stories she shared in her book, which were both inspiring and entertaining. Her story is a reminder that anything is possible with faith, passion, commitment and a great sense of humor.
Julian B. Kiganda
Julian B. Kiganda is a passionate creative, expert brand builder, published author and founder of Bold & Fearless. A native of Uganda and Rwanda, she has 15+ years of experience as a multicultural design and communications expert. She’s created powerful brands for clients such as the African Union, Turner Construction, and the Freedom House Museum. Julian and her work have been featured in numerous media including: The Washington Post, ABC News, NBC4, FOX5, Associated Press, Communication Arts, Huffington Post, NPR, and ARISE Magazine. In 2014, she co-authored and published her first highly-acclaimed book, “Whose Shoes Are You Wearing? 12 Steps to Uncovering the Woman You Really Want to Be,” and is on a mission to empower women to walk boldly and fearlessly in the shoes God made just for them!
Agreed. This is all so true. Awesome chap. This one
Beau, Thanks for stopping by! Fred, and all the other Notable Africans on this list are indeed Changemakers to watch. Can you think of anyone else that should be added to this list? Drop me a note and let me know.
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