Chiney Ogwumike’s deep connection with her Nigerian heritage has led her to a remarkable opportunity. She will be serving as a member of the inaugural President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States.
This will allow her to make a meaningful impact across the African continent.
“Best way to describe is it feels like its a calling of a lifetime. It’s something so authentic to who I am and what I stand for and what I want to do for service,”Ogwumike said during an interview.
In her X page she celebrated her achievement with the caption,”An honour of a lifetime.”
The 31-year-old is a Stanford graduate and WNBA player who began her journey as a public advocate for African women in 2014.
This was when she, along with her sister Nneka, initiated a UNICEF fundraiser in response to the abduction of Nigerian girls by Boko Haram.
Last year,Ogwumike had the opportunity to address the UN General Assembly where she learned about the council and expressed her desire to become a part of it.
“I talked about the power of sports and how it could transform the world. I submitted my resume and had my fingers crossed,” she said.
The council was first announced by Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit.
It will be under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Silvester Beaman from the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
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Joining this esteemed council, which will serve until 2025, is Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis.
Notably, Ogwumike, who also serves as an NBA analyst for ESPN, holds the distinction of being the youngest female member on the council.
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The council will serve as a resource in strengthening cultural, social, political and economic connections between the United States and Africa.
Additionally, they will actively foster trade, investment and educational exchanges between Africa and United States.
