Mrs. Gloria Ita-Ikpeme is a passionate woman who is deeply concerned about the plight of the widows and orphans in the society. Her desire to ameliorate the travails of these vulnerable people in the society cumulated to her establishing a not-for-profit organisation known as “Touching Hearts Global Foundation”(THGT) formerly, “Orphans and Homeless Widows Fund” over two decades ago.
Speaking in an interview with CHRISTIANA OKPALA, Mrs. Ikpeme who retired as the Manager, Public Affairs, Media and Corporate Communications, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG)? bares her mind on the initiatives she took to empower women by virtue of her position, and the need for women to be financially responsible, among others.
TNE: What is the depth of work at Touching Hearts Global Foundation?
The Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life and giving hope to our identified at-risk population within various communities. It was founded 21 years ago. In THGT, we bring together resources to meet some of the needs of orphans in various orphanages and homes across Nigeria and support the rehabilitation of needy widows, displaced women and their children. It aims to provide some degree of quality life for our at-risk population by helping orphanages and rehabilitating homeless widows, while enhancing the capacity of the orphanages, homes and families to cope with challenges they face. It was established to serve as a conduit between sponsors and registered orphanages, homes and identified homeless widows. Through our strategic approach, we provide love, care and financial/material support that ensure some quality of life for this at-risk population through planned programmes and projects.
We are particular about the quality of care given to the children and so far, over 200 orphans have benefitted from the project.
TNE: How would you describe the situation of homeless widows and orphans in the society?
Their situation is pathetic. The fact is that , there is an increase in the number of homeless widows and orphans in Nigeria. There are almost 160 Orphanages in the country and numerous unregistered ones. We have thousands of under privileged children requiring assistance. Many people have asked me why are we reaching out to needy at this period the country is facing economic crisis and my response remains, that if it is tough for us , then it is certainly tougher for them, the poor, the suffering , the under-privileged , the orphans and the widows. There is need for well-meaning Nigerians, corporate bodies to come to the aid of these people so that they can leave a meaning life.
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TNE: What were you doing before you delved into the work of advocacy?
l worked in the banking sector for 20 years years. I worked with Continental Merchant Bank, started as the Head of Department and rose to become Senior Manager/Divisional Head. I later left banking sector and joined Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Limited where l managed the Public Affairs, Media and Corporate Communications Department and l left on that note.
My experience as a woman occupying such position, though challenging and tough, but it was fulfilling. It’s your state of mind and attitude that will determine your altitude. It was easier for me to relate with people because I operated an open door policy. The experience was quite challenging and tough because I worked majorly with men, but it was fulfilling. It was easy for me because I had a good support from my husband and children.
TNE: What are some of the achievements you recorded while working in the oil sector?
While working with the NLNG, I coordinated the development of Architecture and Implement/Management of NLNG Leadership Academy. Also, l led a team in the review of NLNG Learning Strategy with Shell Global Leadership Academy. I developed and implemented a training framework and business plans for the company.
I also, coordinated and managed “Best in Class” Business Logistic support and supplies for the company. I was as well involved in ensuring hitch-free and effective Contract & Procurement Administration at the Head Quarter. Also, I managed Air/Land travels logistics and ensuring adequacy of fleet for activities across the organisation. I ensured the provision of adequate/reliable security and excellent Head Office and official residences of NLNG Management staff.
TNE: How were you able to balance your home and work?
My home was my priority. It is a question of what is your focus. I never allowed my work to take over my home. As a woman, you have to consciously balance your home and your career so as to avoid crisis. My advice to women is for them start early to be financially independent, which will enable them to be a wife and be respectful. “No financial independent”, no leverage to be whom God wants you to be , you are an helpmeet not a responsibility.
