Raise a glass to the ESWA Women, this Christmas

Chidynma Ugbenne (Adadioranma 1)

Ekene, Ekene Umunwanyi ESWA! Dejekwenuooo 😄

I am Chidynma Ugbenne (Adadioranma 1), the proud Founder of Enugu State Women Association of UK & Ireland (ESWA).

As the year draws to a close, I am filled with reflection, gratitude, and awe. Nearly 40 years ago, in 1987, I held a simple but powerful vision: to create a women’s wing of the Enugu State Association- a space where our women in the UK and Ireland could support one another and contribute to the charities closest to our hearts in Enugu, Nigeria. Who could have imagined that this dream would grow into the vibrant, thriving ESWA we celebrate today?

Armed with this vision, I called my dear friend Lady Obiajulu Ejiofor (President 1989–1991; 1997–1999). I shared my dream with her, and together we invited a few friends to my first meetings in my apartment in Peckham, London.

Those early gatherings were intimate, filled with laughter, shared hopes, and a spark that none of us could ignore. With each successive meeting, members brought in more friends, and soon, our circle was too large for one apartment. We moved meetings to individual homes, and as our numbers continued to grow, we began renting halls.

Years later, after decades of dedication from many formidable Presidents (see brochure photo below) and Executive Teams, here we are—a testament to vision, commitment, and the power of women coming together. ESWA is more than an association; it is a family, a legacy, a force for positive impact both near and far.

As 2025 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you- our ESWA sisters. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment are shaping a legacy that will live on through our daughters and granddaughters. Every meeting attended, every charity supported, every smile shared is part of a story that continues to grow.

So wherever you are today, let us raise a glass together:

• Long live each of us.

• Long live ESWA.

• To God be the glory, always! 🍷🙏🏾

From my heart to yours, I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas filled with love, warmth and joy, and a New Year, 2026, overflowing with blessings, prosperity and continued growth!

Hip, Hip, Hip, Hooray—Merry Christmas to all!

Let us continue this journey together. The best is yet to come! The countdown for ESWA @40 starts here❤️💕