FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF AHWEE

Founder and President of AHWEE

Etop's educational journey is marked by her pursuit of knowledge and excellence. With a passion for learning, she attended the University of Agriculture Markurdi, earning a BEng in Agricultural Engineering in 1996.

Her life took a new direction when she immigrated to the United States in 1997. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there, and she went on to complete a bachelor's degree in nursing in 2008 and a master's degree in nursing in 2022 from the University of Rhode Island. 

Etop's illustrious career in the healthcare sector spans over two decades, during which she served as a Registered Nurse in various capacities, including a Lead Role in Critical Care Units across different hospitals and long-term care facilities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. 

Her commitment to helping others and her passion for humanitarian work led her to become a registered member of the New England HIV/AIDS Education & Training Centre, where she actively contributes to updating members on HIV/AIDS pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention. 

Beyond her exceptional career, Etop is the Founder and President of African Heritage Women in Education and Empowerment (AHWEE), a US-based nonprofit organization with special accreditation from the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Through AHWEE, she strives to empower women and children and create positive change in society. 

Her contributions have been recognized through various awards and honors, including the Virtuous Women of USA International Founder Meritus Award in 2013, the Meritus Recognition for Outstanding Dedication to Women Empowerment and Humanitarian Services presented by former Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo in 2017, and the International Human Right Commission to UN Recognition as Top 100 Human Right Defender in 2019. 

Etop is a strong advocate for gender equity and believes that women have a crucial role to play in leadership and making the world a better place. She encourages women to take on influential roles and empowers them through educational and economic initiatives. 

Having experienced challenges in her own upbringing, Etop is driven by her desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others and create a brighter future for those in need. Her determination and compassionate nature inspire countless individuals, and she is deeply committed to her life's purpose of service to humanity. 

Recognizing Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel's profound dedication to women's welfare and her significant contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State, Etop saw an ideal partner in the First Lady. Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel's tireless efforts in promoting healthcare, education, and women's empowerment aligned perfectly with AHWEE's goals. 

Through her diligent networking and passionate advocacy, Etop succeeded in getting the attention of Her Excellency, Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel. Their initial meeting marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership aimed at creating positive change in the lives of women and children in Akwa Ibom State. 

Together, they organized and hosted a highly successful High-Level Event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, where they showcased the progress and assistance needed for Akwa Ibom State's ongoing development. The event brought the state onto the global stage and highlighted its commitment to gender equality and sustainable development.

Furthermore, in partnership with the Nigerian Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Etop and Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel organized another impactful High-Level event at the Nigerian Consulate in New York City during the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) Session 63 in 2019. This event, along with other collaborations, exemplified the strength and dedication of their partnership. 

Their shared passion for making a difference and empowering women and communities has been the driving force behind their collaboration. Etop's relentless commitment to humanitarian services, coupled with Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel's unwavering dedication to women's rights and welfare, has allowed AHWEE to expand its reach and make a lasting impact in Akwa Ibom State and beyond. 

Queen Mother Dr. Delois Blakely champions the aspirations of women, youth, education, economic-social development, and community relations. In 2009, Queen Mother Dr. Delois Blakely was appointed Goodwill Ambassador to Africa for her extensive travels and relationships with the African Union (and its respective countries within the African region) to the United Nations. She has been given the task to deal with women, children, and human rights issues of the African Diaspora and serves to share these findings with the United Nations. 

With Queen Mother Dr. Delouis Blakely's extensive experience and Etop's unwavering dedication, AHWEE's efforts expanded to new heights. Their joint efforts and shared vision have led to the successful organization of empowerment forums, workshops, and events, aimed at fostering leadership skills and promoting education for women and girls. Together, they have worked tirelessly to inspire women to take up leadership roles and become agents of positive change in their communities. 

  Contact information: 

 Email: etopmma@gmail.com or eokokon@ahwee.org 

Ph. (401) 699-2419

 Fax: (401)231-4274  

Etop Okokon is greeting the women at the AHWEE Shelter House.