Meet the Board
Current Board Members
Dr. Sandra Ukaigwe
Chairperson
Chief Emeka Onuoha
Vice Chairperson
Emeka Nwaiwu
Director of IT
Nkechi Ezeonyeasi
Principal
Dr. Uchenna Okereafor
ICAE President
Oge Igwe
Secretary of the Board
Chinedu Asogwa
PRO
Dr. Everestus Akanno
Ex-Chairperson
Dr. Chris Chukwuma
Director of Curriculum, Teaching & Learning
Chinedu Okoro
Director of Finance
Winnie Nwaeme
Chairperson, Parent Teacher Association
Dr. Sandra Ukaigwe
Chairperson
Sandra Ukaigwe holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and an M.Ed. in Educational Administration and Leadership, both from the University of Alberta, as well as a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She has spent the past decade teaching and supporting learners at various levels, particularly in higher education.
Sandra is deeply passionate about community engagement and language-focused initiatives that promote and preserve Igbo heritage. Her commitment to cultural and language preservation is central to her work, and she continues to champion efforts that strengthen identity and belonging within the Igbo community in Edmonton.
She also volunteers in various capacities with the Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton (ICAE), contributing her time and expertise to initiatives that support cultural continuity and community development.
Chief Emeka Onuoha
Vice Chairperson
Chief Emeka Onuoha is a visionary nonprofit executive and respected community leader whose career has been defined by transformational impact across Canada’s social services, health, and community development sectors. A dynamic strategist and systems thinker, Emeka is renowned for his ability to drive mission-aligned growth, build inclusive organizations, and champion equity at every level.
With extensive executive experience, Chief Onuoha has led organizations through complex transitions, delivering measurable results in governance, stakeholder engagement, and organizational renewal. He has successfully overseen multi-million-dollar budgets, empowered cross-functional teams, and shaped policies that advance access, justice, and social innovation.
His diverse portfolio spans media, manufacturing, telecommunications, housing, mental health, youth empowerment, seniors programming, newcomer integration, anti-racism initiatives, and social enterprise. In each of these areas, Emeka has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community self-determination and long-term sustainability.
Widely regarded for his ability to align vision with action, Emeka cultivates cultures of accountability, transparency, and shared purpose. He has forged strong partnerships across sectors—government agencies, funders, grassroots organizations, and Indigenous and racialized communities—to co-create impactful, community-led solutions.
A passionate advocate for values-based governance and equity-centered leadership, Chief Onuoha has advised on governance reform, developed board effectiveness frameworks, and mentored the next generation of nonprofit leaders. His deep understanding of risk management and inclusive decision-making informs every aspect of his leadership.
As a board member of the Edmonton Igbo School, Emeka is deeply committed to cultural preservation, intergenerational education, and the promotion of Igbo language and heritage.
Holding advanced credentials in management, executive leadership, and strategic planning, Chief Onuoha brings a rare blend of executive insight and grassroots connection to every governance table. He is most inspired by opportunities that advance dignity, inclusion, and sustainable impact—and by the power of communities to lead their own change.
Dr. Uchenna Okereafor
ICAE President
Dr. Okereafor landed in Edmonton as a Permanent Resident in 2020. He grew up in Lagos, Nigeria. He possesses a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri - Nigeria, a Bachelor of Education degree, from the University of South Africa, and Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Engineering Metallurgy with specialization in Environmental Remediation both from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. He has worked extensively with people of different ages and has undertaken roles including Math and Science teacher for grades 8 -10 in Johannesburg, South Africa, a University Lecturer with a specialty in Metallurgical Engineering modules at the prestigious University of Johannesburg, Student Mentor, and Graduate Advisor for Golden Key International Honour Society, Community Disability Support Worker (CDSW) and advocate for the vulnerable persons within communities in Edmonton and as a Project Coordinator for the University of Alberta Queen Elizabeth Scholar program.
Dr. Okereafor’s scientific publications as a seasoned environmental remediation professional have received over 210 citations in high-impact journals with an h-index of 4. He successfully documented the scientific process for manufacturing glass from gold mine tailings in his publication “Gold mine tailings: a potential source of silica sand for glass making”. He is a volunteer at the Edmonton Food Bank, and Africa Center respectively. Currently, he is a high school Math and Science teacher with the Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD). Dr. Okereafor is passionate about youth and community development. He is the Project Coordinator for the flagship Youth Empowerment Support (YES) program of The Resilient Immigrant Foundation (TRIF). Also, he is the President of the Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton (ICAE) commitment to community engagement programs.
Dr. Okereafor is married to Dr. Nkem Uche-Okereafor and they have two children. He enjoys writing and creating motivational quotes and inspirational posters during his free time as a way to keep individuals and community members motivated.
Dr. Everestus Akanno
Ex-Chairperson
Dr. Everestus Chima Akanno hails from Oboh, Isiala Mbano, Imo State, Nigeria. He received a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Animal Science and Quantitative Genetics and Animal Breeding, respectively, from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria. Dr. Akanno worked briefly as a Lecturer at Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria before coming to Canada. In 2007, Dr. Akanno was awarded the prestigious commonwealth scholarship to come to Canada for his Doctorate program at the University of Guelph, arriving Guelph, Canada on September 1, 2007.
After completing his doctorate program in 2012, he moved to Edmonton with his family to accept a postdoctoral role at the University of Alberta. While at the University of Alberta, Dr. Akanno provided leadership in several research projects, supervised and mentored several students including 2 PhDs. Dr. Akanno is widely published with over 60 articles in scientific literature and is currently the Global Genetic Evaluation Manager for Genesus Inc. (a swine genetic improvement company) and an adjunct faculty with Livestock Gentec, University of Alberta.
Within the Igbo community, Dr. Akanno has served in several roles including Secretary of Election Committee, Strong voice in Igbo Choir, Member of Iriji Committee, Member of Grant and Fund Raising committee and currently the Ex-Chairperson of the Edmonton Igbo School Board. He is married to Vivian Ijeoma Akanno, and the marriage is blessed with Chidubem, Chizaram, Chibuike and Chimamanda.
Nkechi Ezeonyeasi
Principal
Nkechi Uzor-Ezeonyeasi is an accomplished professional and organizational leader with extensive experience in various industries, including oil & gas, energy, and environmental sectors. She possesses excellent skills in strategic planning, business leadership, policy building, process safety leadership, business intelligence and development, channel management, team coaching, and communication.
Nkechi holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Owerri Nigeria, a Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety (Honors) from NAIT Alberta Canada, a Mini MBA, an Advanced Diploma in Innovation, Business Growth, and Digital Execution USA, a Master of Business Administration USA, and completed a Certificate in Business and Entrepreneurship Essentials from the Harvard Business School.
Throughout her ten-year work history, Nkechi has held various leadership and advisory roles in the private and public sectors. She has successfully led project safety management in Trinidad and Tobago, and in Alberta Canada, established a structured and efficient micro, small, and medium enterprise government agency in Nigeria, and coordinated projects for the ICAE and Government of Alberta Canada's COVID-19 Mental Health Project. Nkechi has severed in various roles in the Edmonton Igbo community including the Igbo school board curriculum committee and is currently the Principal of Edmonton Igbo School here in Alberta Canada.
Nkechi Uzor-Ezeonyeasi is a wife, and a mom of 3 lovely children, and she enjoys sports, writing, and volunteering activities in different capacities outdoors.
Chinedu Asogwa
PRO
Chinedu Asogwa is a seasoned IT professional with over 20 years of experience across various domains of Information Technology. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, and a Master of Science in Computer Science from the University of Lagos. Throughout his career, Chinedu has contributed to the success of organizations in sectors such as Finance, Gaming, Government, and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), where he has played key roles in shaping and executing technology strategies that support sustainable business growth.
Beyond his professional background, Chinedu is a dedicated community builder and a fervent advocate for the advancement of Igbo community and the preservation of our rich shared heritage. He is deeply committed to promoting the Igbo language and culture for both current and future generations. Prior to his board appointment, Chinedu was a consistent and dedicated volunteer with ICAE programs and activities, demonstrating his belief in active community engagement.
Chinedu is happily married to his wife, Nkechi, and they are blessed with three wonderful children. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, reading, walking, and biking.
Oge Igwe
Secretary of the Board
Ogechukwu Stella Igwe nee Olikeze is a Registered Nurse/Midwife from Awka-Etiti in Anambra State. She attended Schools of Nursing and Midwifery Iyi-Enu Hospital Ogidi Anambra State.
Oge worked in Renowned Hospitals like Kanayo Specialist Hospital and Maternity Onitsha and Reddington Multi Specialist Hospital Victoria Island Lagos as Head Nurse before migrating to Canada in 2019.
Oge is currently working in the Pulmonary Unit of Royal Alexandra Hospital Edmonton.
Oge likes swimming, dancing and movies.Oge is married to Ebere Igwe and Blessed with 2 girls Kaima and Kamto Igwe.
Winnie Nwaeme
Chairperson, Parent Teacher Association
Winnie Akpobodor Nwaeme received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Belize, where she was the youngest student admitted into the program. This early achievement paved the way for her qualification as a Registered Nurse. She worked in Belize for approximately seven years before relocating to Canada with her family.
Winnie is married to Ugochukwu Nwaeme, and together they are blessed with four lovely children. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at the Edmonton Igbo School, where she plays an active role in supporting cultural education and community development.
Professionally, Winnie works within the Community Mental Health Services in Edmonton as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Her role focuses on making mental health care accessible and equitable for individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds and races. With over 16 years of nursing experience, Winnie is deeply passionate about caring for others and advocating for mental wellness.
In addition to her professional and community commitments, Winnie currently serves as a children’s minister at her local church, where she has faithfully nurtured the spiritual growth of young minds for over five years.
An Ijaw native, Winnie also embraces the Igbo culture and language. Being married to an Igbo man and raising Igbo children, she is committed to ensuring that the language and traditions are preserved and passed on to future generations.
Chinedu Okoro
Director of Finance
Chinedu Christian Okoro is currently a financial advisor at CIBC here in Edmonton AB. He has over 19 years of banking experience in Nigeria and Canada.
He started his career with Standard Trust Bank, now UBA Africa, in 2001. He also had a two year teaching experience as a physics tutor with the University of Lagos international school between 2019 and 2001.
Chinedu graduated from the University of Nigeria with a BSc degree in physics. He then proceeded to obtain a postgraduate diploma in Management from ATB Bauchi in 2002 and subsequently Diploma in Instrumentation Engineering from Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in 2016. He also has several banking certifications here in Canada.
Chinedu is deeply committed to community leadership and engagement. He was the financial secretary of the Knight of columbus from 2021 to 2023. He has also been a committed member of ICAE and has participated in the Iri ji festival and Bingo events.
Chinedu is happily married with two boys and two girls.
Dr. Chris Chukwuma
Director of Curriculum, Teaching & Learning
Dr. Chris Chukwuma is a Nigerian-Canadian change management, organizational strategy and leadership development consultant. He spent his early career years in Price Waterhouse-cum-PricewaterhouseCoopers as a management consultant after short stints in journalism and advertisement. Thereafter, he spent the next ten years in the banking industry as Vice President of Support Services, overseeing human resources, customer services, branch development, training & development, and corporate real estate departments. Dr. Chukwuma is a certified leadership coach, speaker and trainer who has delivered extensive training in Nigeria, UAE, Ghana, the United States, and Canada on leadership & management, human resources, facility management, customer services, personal development, organizational strategy, business strategy, and various soft skills. He holds Ph.D. in organizational leadership and has been a management consultant and trainer for over 25 years. He is passionate about community development, helping people unlock their full potential and live a life of purpose and intention. Dr. Chukwuma is the author of The Secret of Your Future Is Hidden in Your Daily Routine. His writings are focused on leadership development, personal development, cross-cultural intelligence, soft skills development, life success, and the normalization of ACB communities in Canada. His works are characterized by its practical approach and actionable advice, empowering readers to transform their lives through tangible strategies and consistent efforts.
Emeka Nwaiwu
Director of IT
Emeka is an accomplished IT Networking Professional with over eight years of hands-on experience delivering top-tier technical support and infrastructure management across diverse environments. Known for his natural talent in resolving complex technical challenges, Emeka is highly adaptive, solutions-oriented, and dedicated to maintaining system uptime and security.
In addition to his professional engagements, Emeka has made impactful contributions to community initiatives through the Igbo Canadian Association of Edmonton (ICAE). His work for ICAE includes:
IT Support for ICAE: Providing reliable and prompt technical assistance during community events, resolving hardware/software issues, and supporting end-users.
ICAE Mentorship Project: Assisting in the planning and execution of mentorship programs focused on empowering youth and professionals within the community by leveraging technology platforms for coordination and communication.
ICAE Website Maintenance: Supporting the upkeep, content updates, and minor enhancements of the association’s website to ensure a seamless digital experience.
Edmonton Igbo School Website Maintenance: Managing updates and resolving issues on the Igbo language school’s website, helping promote cultural education and engagement within the community.