Meet the Founder: Amarachukwu Nwokokoro, Founder of IRUKA Foundation

Amarachukwu Nwokokoro, widely known as “The Global Asset,” is a dynamic force at the intersection of policy, development, and social impact. As a policy professional and social impact expert, she is committed to advancing healthcare (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), and strong institutions (SDG 16) across Africa. Holding a degree in Political Science and a graduate of the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG), Amarachukwu is passionate about shaping policies that drive systemic change. She has been recognized for her work in active citizenship and government development, leveraging her expertise to create sustainable solutions that transform lives.

As the founder of IRUKA Africa Foundation, Amarachukwu leads initiatives across 12 African countries, empowering young leaders and mobilizing communities toward sustainable development. She is also the visionary behind Lilies Africa, a brand that merges fashion with impact, funding educational opportunities for young girls. Beyond her nonprofit and entrepreneurial ventures, Amarachukwu runs transformative courses on influence, faith, and social impact, equipping individuals with the tools to amplify their voice and leadership. Under her brand, "Ammychi," she cultivates a global community of over 30,000 changemakers, inspiring them to take bold action in their spheres of influence. A sought-after speaker, Amarachukwu collaborates with global organizations, policymakers, and influencers to advocate for policies that strengthen governance, education, and social equity.

Her work continues to reshape narratives and set new benchmarks for impactful leadership. Driven by a vision of a more just and empowered Africa, Amarachukwu remains committed to fostering a generation of leaders who are unashamed, influential, and unwavering in their pursuit of change.

Tell us about your journey and how IRUKA Foundation was birthed. My name is Amarachukwu Nwokokoro, born and raised in Los Angeles, California, USA. I studied political science and had a dream of becoming a lawyer. It was really all I knew. I wanted to make a difference in my world, especially in Africa. I started a fashion brand called African Apparel and thought this would be my contribution to the world. I later went to Nigeria that year for a family visit and noticed so many things I wanted to change, that was the day African Apparel turned into the IRUKA Foundation. I moved to Nigeria in 2021 and later had a career change in 2023 to the social development space full time, and in under a year I grew IRUKA from 4 countries to 6, and now in 2025 we are active in 12 countries across Africa. It has been very good to make an impact.?

What has been the most profound impact of your foundation’s initiatives, and how has it resonated with you personally? My most profound impact would have to be our She-ignite Program. This program is allowing us to place girls' clubs across secondary schools in Africa. Though it is new, it resonates with me greatly. It is so nice that I get to give others what I did not have readily available to me growing up. Being a firstborn, I have always had to learn on the job and teach others around me. It is amazing to make an impact in people's lives, especially young girls.?

Gender equality is a significant focus of your work. What drives your passion for advancing gender equality across Africa? Gender equality is something I believe is important in Africa’s development, so I am passionate about it. Women and young girls across Africa face issues that are truly terrible. Yes, there has been improvement, but I believe we like to praise things too quickly without truly looking at the full view. I am dedicated to seeing these issues eradicated and bringing awareness to the masses as well.?

What personal values and principles guide your leadership style and decision-making process? My leadership style and decision-making process are guided by excellence, integrity, creativity, and perseverance. I believe in striving for excellence in everything I do, ensuring that my work and the initiatives I lead meet the highest standards. Integrity is at the core of my leadership. I prioritize honesty, transparency, and accountability in all my decisions. Creativity drives my approach to problem-solving, allowing me to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to challenges. Lastly, perseverance keeps me committed to my vision, even in the face of obstacles. I believe that challenges are opportunities for growth, and I remain steadfast in pushing forward to create meaningful impact.

How do you stay motivated and inspired amidst the challenges and complexities of your work? I am a believer of Jesus Christ and honestly, in the midst of challenges, I turn to him. I believe all I do is rooted in all that he is! So he is where I reset and also where I celebrate when it's good. I also have an amazing community that is always there for me as well. This makes impact easy because there is someone to lean on.?

As a founder, what has been the most rewarding aspect of your work so far? I would honestly say watching my team grow. A good leader replicates themselves, I try my best with God's help to replicate myself and pour myself into my team!?

Connect with Amarachukwu here.