Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi—From Thorns to Roses, Lighting Paths for Women Across the World
The Phenomenal Woman at 72:
Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi—From Thorns to Roses, Lighting Paths for Women Across the World
Special Birthday Feature by Oladipo Oluwatosin
“I thank God that my 6 years of dealing with thorns of depression, low energy and anxiety has transformed me into my roses of God-centeredness, vibrant health, positive mindset, passion and impact @ 72 and rocking by God’s grace.”_ – Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi
At 72, Dr. Ifeyinwa Irene Nwakwesi isn’t slowing down. She’s not just a woman with a medical degree or a business mogul in real estate and maritime industries; she is a phenomenon—a living legacy of resilience, vision, and godly transformation. Her story is a tapestry of pain turned into power, challenges metamorphosed into change, and faith forged into fierce female empowerment.
The Woman Behind the Phenomenon
Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi, a trained medical doctor from the prestigious University College Hospital, Ibadan, emerged not only as a clinician but as a woman with a calling far beyond stethoscopes and surgeries. Over the years, she transitioned from clinical practice to a broader ministry of healing—physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually—impacting thousands of lives, especially women, both in Nigeria and across global platforms.
Her identity as the “Phenomenal Woman” is not just a nickname; it's a mantle. After battling with personal health crises, including six years of deep emotional thorns—depression, low energy, and anxiety, she experienced divine healing and inner transformation. Rather than hide the scars, she turned them into tools for helping others. Through this, she founded Healthy Living Services (HLS) and other ventures rooted in integrative lifestyle health and preventive care.
Empowering Women—One Life at a Time
At the core of Dr. Nwakwesi’s legacy is Women Aligned for Growth (WAG)—an organization that seeks to rebuild character, restore dignity, and prepare women for purposeful living. WAG trains and mentors women in:
- Entrepreneurship & Self-Reliance
- Agricultural Empowerment & Tech Inclusion
- Widows’ Welfare & Community Support
- Youth Mentorship & Life Skills
Her work with widows, young girls, and underprivileged women has drawn national and international attention, especially as she partners with organizations like Access Bank's W-Initiative, SARA by Wema, and Mission for the Needy. Through these platforms, food reliefs, business capital, health interventions, and leadership training have reached communities often forgotten.
Global Impact, Local Touch
Beyond Nigerian shores, Dr. Nwakwesi has spoken at global wellness summits, Christian leadership conferences, and women’s development panels, bringing her God-centered philosophy into global discussions. Her belief is simple: “A whole woman heals the world.”
She actively promotes an integrative lifestyle as a holistic healing tool, addressing body, soul, and spirit. Her global consultancy through HLS includes sessions on detox, diet, mindset renewal, emotional balance, and spiritual alignment.
Legacies & Projects
Some of her notable footprints include:
- Enugwu-Ukwu Daughters Community Development Initiative – Strengthening her hometown with education and welfare programs.
- Healthy Living Services (HLS) – A wellness platform transforming health narratives in Nigeria.
- WAG's Character Rebuilding Curriculum – Now being adapted in schools and church-based women ministries.
- WACIN Movement- Women for Aligned Community Impact Nigeria - A hub for professional women who are making impacts in their various area of calling.
- Books, Mentorship Programs & Webinars – Teaching women how to rise from ashes to influence.
Faith That Heals
A devout Christian, Dr. Nwakwesi attributes her transformation and success to God’s grace and purpose. Her healing from depression didn’t come from medication alone—it came from deep spiritual alignment.
Her faith journey inspires her approach to life. She blends scriptural principles with practical health tips and encourages women to see themselves as God’s stewards of impact.
Her favorite life verse? "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth" – 3 John 1:2
Advice to the Youth
As she celebrates her 72nd birthday on May 28, 2025, Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi leaves a heartfelt message to young people:
“Don't be afraid of your thorns. They will lead you to your roses if you give them to God. Depression, shame, failure—those are places, not your destination. Build yourself. Invest in your health, your spirit, your mind, and your character. The world is waiting for your impact.”
Rocking 72 With Grace
She walks gracefully into her 72nd year, not with regret but with radiance—her steps sure, her voice firm, and her mission clearer than ever. With grandchildren, mentees, staff, widows, and thousands of followers worldwide celebrating her, Dr. Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi remains a symbol of divine resilience and phenomenal transformation.
As the sun sets on May 28, candles will flicker, songs will rise, but what will echo the most is this:
"Here lived a woman who walked through thorns and bloomed roses for generations to smell, touch, and become."
HAPPY 72ND BIRTHDAY TO THE PHENOMENAL WOMAN — DR. IFEYINWA NWAKWESI!
You are the rose that bloomed through pain. You are legacy in motion.
