I BELIEVE IN SMALL BEGINNINGS!

There’s no better way to celebrate people than to appreciate and put them in the spotlight. Few days after I started blogging, I approached her for an interview. She’s quite blunt and unapologetic when it comes to airing her views. She asked why I would want to interview her, and I told her that I desire to celebrate people who have changed lives in their own little way. She was extremely pleased and the interview was booked instantly.
At the appointed time, I went into her office. She sat on a swingy chair with her legs crossed, waiting patiently for me to throw the first question at her. I tried cracking a few jokes just to ease the tension, but she checked the time and stared at me.  Instantly , I grabbed my recorder and my first ever blog interview was launched!

Sandra Ezinne Ukeje is a Nigerian who hails from Abia state. While introducing herself she said, “I’m blessed to have wonderful parents and siblings. They mean so much to me.  I love everything lovable, but can run miles away from anything as awful as body odor. It turns me off!”

HER TAKE ON FAME
“It depends on the individual. I’m made! I’m in a league of my own and I appreciate myself all the time. The famous ones should enjoy the center stage. Being famous is a beautiful thing and it’s a special grace. When I get there, I’ll have my fair share of it.

ON HER JOURNEY TO SUCCESS

“I believe in small beginnings. I started small and there were days when I worked without paychecks, but here I am. I am one of the profound journalists in the south eastern part of the country who can mar or build lives with her reports,” Sandra boldly said.

“Even though you’re just STARTING out this blog and platform of yours, I believe it can spring forth into something bigger in the future. But don’t forget people like me WHEN the bigger cakes land on your table. When people all over the world begin to reach you, remember me.” She added jokingly.

Just like many, she has fought and survived so many odds. She said, “You can always find strength in your loved ones. Their loyalty for you can be deafening and unbeatable. I have good family and true friends who are always there for me. Their support always bring me out of the ditch during tough and challenging times.”

ON BEING A WOMAN

She felt a bit irritated with the question. “I think I’m tired of the stereotype placed on women. First, I’m human and should be treated as one. I believe in gender equality, I believe in oneness, I believe in mutual understanding and respect. I’m sick and tired of the limitations posed on women. Don’t see me as a weaker vessel; see me as a strong being who has a lot to offer,” said Sandra.
Swiftly, I moved on to a subject that I trust would entice her and it worked like magic.

HER LOVE FOR HER JOB
She confidently stated that her line of duty is one thing she can gladly jump at, no matter the time or weather. “Wake me up in the middle of the night to write news or cover an event, and I’ll gladly do it. I’m always informed, ” She affirmed
She went ahead and gave a deep insight on the power of news editor and reporters. “You see, we have so much power in our hands. We tell the newscasters what to read. We work behind the scene and also call the shots. It feels like being that unseen hands that can make or break people. Trust me, I love my profession,” Sandra said passionately.

ON PEOPLE THAT INSPIRE HER

“I respect Hala Gorani and Christiane Amanpour. They are very good at what they do. I admire Hola Gorani’s watchword which is  HONESTY. She says she wants to be the only journalist that says the truth, and that’s my motto too,” said Sandra.

BIGGEST DREAM IN LIFE
More than anything in the world, Sandra wants to be successful. She boldly stated, “Nikky, I will say this over and over again, I want to be so successful that I might choose not to work for weeks and my account won’t run dry. I want to be able to fly so many distances and have all I want in my space.”
“Does it mean you fear poverty?” I queried. Without mincing words, she made it clear that it will be a misery to live without a daily bread. “Success is comfort, success is joy, and success is living in abundance. I wish we all can live life to the fullest. I, Sandra Ukeje want to live like a BOSS with no limitations.”

WORDS OF INSPIRATION 
I told her I’m a sucker for inspiration and asked her to inspire me. She giggled and said “JUST WORK HARDER, and you’ll never go wrong with that.”

For her closing remarks she said, “It doesn’t matter if you’re black or white, Christian or Muslim, always stand for love. I believe that’s all we need!”

It was a privilege having this interview session with her. Sandra depicts boldness and confidence. She has a world of her own and she owns every bit of it. Expect new posts on this segment every Sunday.  Hope you were inspired!