At a recent gathering of experts in economic development and entrepreneurship in New York City, Nigerian Deals analyst Uchechukwu Okonkwo delivered an inspiring address focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in Nigeria and the United States.
Drawing on her own professional journey and vast experience in business and economics, Okonkwo underscored the importance of providing women with the tools and resources to thrive in today’s competitive economy.
“Women, whether in Nigeria or the U.S., are often faced with unique challenges in business,” she stated. “From accessing funding to navigating male-dominated industries, the barriers can be overwhelming. But when women are equipped with the right skills and networks, they have the potential to drive substantial economic growth.” Okonkwo’s advocacy for women entrepreneurs has become central to her work, as she bridges her roles in corporate America and her Nigerian roots to uplift female-led businesses in both regions.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Okonkwo began her career in economics before joining PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as a Deals Advisory Analyst. She has used her expertise to support large corporations in the U.S., but her passion for empowering women entrepreneurs remains a consistent theme in her career. At the New York event, she shared how her journey informed her commitment to this cause, saying, “The key to unlocking potential lies in creating a support system where women can access financial literacy, mentorship, and technology”.
Okonkwo emphasized that one of the most significant challenges facing women in both Nigeria and the U.S. is the lack of access to funding. She explained, “In many cases, women are overlooked when it comes to venture capital or bank loans, despite having viable business ideas. I’ve seen this in both Lagos and New York. It’s a systemic issue that must be addressed if we are to see more women-led businesses succeed.” Through her advocacy, Okonkwo has partnered with several non-governmental organizations to facilitate financial literacy programs, helping women understand the intricacies of securing funding for their businesses.
Another area Okonkwo is passionate about is mentorship. “Having a mentor can make all the difference,” she said. “When I first started my career, I had mentors who guided me through complex decisions and helped me see beyond the immediate obstacles. Now, I am committed to paying it forward by mentoring young women, particularly in Nigeria, who are just starting their entrepreneurial journeys.” Her mentorship efforts have seen her involved in initiatives like the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which provides mentorship and seed capital to entrepreneurs across Africa.
In her speech, Okonkwo also touched on the importance of integrating technology into women-led businesses. She noted, “In today’s digital economy, leveraging technology is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether it’s using data analytics to understand market trends or automating processes to improve efficiency, technology can be the game-changer that elevates a small business to the next level.” She highlighted how she works with female entrepreneurs, particularly in Nigeria’s informal sector, to integrate simple tech solutions that can make their operations more efficient and profitable.
The gathering of experts was particularly moved when Okonkwo discussed the cultural challenges women face in Nigeria. She explained, “In many parts of Nigeria, women are still expected to prioritize family over career. While there is nothing wrong with caring for one’s family, it’s critical that we also create an environment where women can pursue their entrepreneurial dreams without guilt or societal pressure.” She called on community leaders and policymakers to support initiatives that promote gender equality in business.
Okonkwo’s work in empowering women is not just limited to Nigeria. In the United States, she has been active in supporting immigrant women entrepreneurs who often face additional hurdles. “For many immigrant women, there’s the challenge of adjusting to a new culture and understanding different regulatory environments,” she said. “I’ve seen brilliant women with innovative ideas struggle simply because they don’t have the right information or connections. That’s why I’m committed to creating networks that provide these women with the support they need.”
Her efforts in the U.S. have led her to partner with organizations like Women Who Code and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), where she works to provide immigrant women with access to business development resources, tech training, and mentorship. “When women succeed, entire communities benefit,” she stressed, citing research that shows women are more likely than men to reinvest profits into their families and communities.
At the New York event, Okonkwo also shared success stories of women entrepreneurs she has mentored. One such story was of a Nigerian woman who started a small fashion business in Lagos. “She came to me with a lot of passion but very little knowledge of how to scale her business,” Okonkwo recalled. “Through mentorship, she learned how to use social media marketing, manage her finances, and access microloans. Today, she employs over 20 people and has expanded her business beyond Lagos.”
Her speech concluded with a call to action for the gathered experts and stakeholders. “Empowering women entrepreneurs isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s an economic one,” she said. “Women’s participation in the economy drives innovation, reduces poverty, and increases the overall well-being of society. It’s time we all step up and do our part.”
As Okonkwo continues her work across Nigeria and the U.S., her message of empowerment resonates widely. By providing women with the skills, resources, and mentorship they need, she is helping to create a future where female entrepreneurs can not only survive but thrive. Her work stands as a testament to the power of technology, mentorship, and financial literacy in breaking down barriers and building up women-led businesses worldwide.
“There is no limit to what women can achieve when we invest in their potential,” Okonkwo said in closing. And with trailblazers like her leading the charge, that future is becoming a reality both in Nigeria and abroad.
