In celebration of her remarkable journey and contributions to the world of economics, finance, and corporate leadership, Glazia Magazine is pleased to present an intimate interview with the distinguished economist, author, and banking/finance sector luminary, Chinwe Egwim. Join us as we delve into Chinwe Egwim’s insightful perspectives, career highlights, and the wisdom she has gained along her extraordinary path. This special conversation offers a glimpse into the life and experiences of a true trailblazer in the world of finance, providing inspiration and valuable insights for all.
An exclusive birthday interview with Chinwe Egwim
Glazia: Can you share with our readers your date of birth and place of birth, and perhaps any special memories you have of your early years?
Chinwe Egwim: My DOB is 28 October… October kids Rock! I was born in Warri, which is located in Delta State. Hmmm, there are so many special memories. Perhaps, a memory centered around when we lived in the Netherlands and I got enrolled in a swimming competition. I still remember my parents beaming with joy when I won that competition. There is also the memory of my first steps, which was narrated to me, but I always smile when it crosses my mind. Apparently, I took my first steps to welcome my dad from work. He had just returned home from work and I started walking (wobbling) towards him…. He cheered me on, using what is now my pet name, until I grabbed his legs.
Glazia: Nigeria is known for its rich diversity. Can you tell us about your state of origin and its significance?
Chinwe Egwim: I am from Imo state – it is located in Eastern Nigeria. Imo State is often referred to as the “Eastern Heartland” due to its commitment to education. It is home to several notable well-educated individuals and professionals, including academics, doctors, engineers, and other experts.
Glazia: What are some core values and guiding principles that have shaped your journey, both personally and professionally?
C.E: I place a strong emphasis on continuous learning and personal growth. Knowledge is a powerful tool that can empower us to achieve our goals. Empathy and compassion are also at the heart of my values. I have always strived to understand the perspectives and feelings of others, and I’m committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those around me. Collaboration is another key principle that shapes my journey. Working together with others can lead to better outcomes than going it alone. I value teamwork, open communication, and the synergy that comes from collective efforts.
Glazia: We understand that your Christian faith is an important aspect of your life. Can you share how your faith influences your decisions and outlook on life?
C.E: I am Catholic and my faith provides a strong moral compass that shapes my ethical decision-making. My faith also instills in me a sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact, this motivates me to use my skills and resources to contribute to the betterment of society and to help those in need. Also, the concept of forgiveness, a cornerstone of the Christian faith, significantly impacts how I approach relationships and conflicts. Prayer and reflection are integral components of my daily life. I find solace, guidance, and strength through prayer.
Glazia: Who would you like to encounter and have an in-depth conversation with from the Bible, and why?
C.E: There are so many people, indeed difficult to choose but let me highlight just a few:
- The Shunammite Woman: I’d love to speak with the Shunammite Woman because of her remarkable hospitality and her profound interaction with the prophet Elisha. Her generosity in providing room for Elisha and her faith in God’s promises, even in the face of tragedy, is deeply inspiring.
- The Woman with the Issue of Blood: The Woman with the Issue of Blood. Hmmm….Her unwavering faith and determination to seek healing from Jesus, despite her long-standing affliction, is a testament to the power of faith and resilience. I would like to explore her journey, the moment she touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, and how that encounter transformed her life.
- John the Disciple: John holds a unique place among the disciples as the beloved disciple of Jesus. His close relationship with Jesus, his presence at crucial moments in Christ’s life, and his role in preserving the Gospel of John make him a fascinating character. I would love to speak with John to gain deeper insights into his experiences, his understanding of Christ’s teachings, and the profound love that characterized his relationship with Jesus.
- Philemon, Paul’s Friend: I would be eager to engage in conversation with Philemon to explore his thoughts and emotions upon receiving Paul’s letter and the subsequent actions he took. Understanding his perspective on forgiveness and reconciliation, especially in a complex social context, would provide valuable insights into the practical application of Christian values.
Glazia: You’ve been featured on the covers of several magazines, but what’s one thing about you that most people may not know?
C.E: I am sure there are several things that most people do not know… For instance, I am part of the board of lectors at my parish – Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Lagos. My involvement as a lector deepens my understanding of the liturgy and the Mass, it also provides a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Also, I have an amazing singing voice. I was actually part of a girl group/band when I was in high school.
Glazia: If you were not in the world of finance and economics, what alternate career path might you have pursued?
C.E: I had opted to study Chemical Engineering and Computer Science years ago but studied Economics instead. Given the life experiences and projects that I have been exposed to, I would say that I can pivot into Public Relations, Corporate Brand Communications, or Project Management. Interestingly, movie production and fashion designing easily feature on this list.
Glazia: Your achievements are an inspiration to many aspiring economists and young professionals. What advice would you offer to those looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Be Inquisitive: Ask questions, be curious, and seek to understand the intricacies of economic phenomena. Don’t be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom.
- Build a Diverse Skill Set: Economics is a multifaceted field. Develop a wide range of skills, including quantitative analysis, data interpretation, and effective communication. These skills will make you a more well-rounded economist.
- Network and Collaborate: Building a professional network is crucial. Attend conferences, and seminars, and join professional organisations in your area of interest. Collaborate with experts and peers to exchange ideas and learn from each other.
- Find Your Niche: Economics is a broad field with numerous specializations. Find your passion and focus on a specific area that truly interests you. This will make your work more fulfilling.
- Maintain a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout. A well-rounded life outside of your profession can enhance your effectiveness as an economist.
- Give Back: As you progress in your career, consider giving back to your community and sharing your knowledge with the next generation. Mentor young economists and professionals and contribute to the field’s growth.
Glazia: What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career that you’d like to share with our readers?
C.E: Always bring value – people (organisations) should feel your presence and notice your absence. Build goodwill currency which requires you to go the extra mile to help, collaborate, and support your colleagues and peers. It’s an investment that can be invaluable throughout your career. Being brave is another vital lesson. In economics, as in life, taking risks can lead to great rewards. It means having the courage to challenge conventional wisdom, explore uncharted territories, and make bold decisions when necessary. Lastly, do not count yourself out! Self-doubt can be a formidable barrier to success.
Glazia: As someone who’s actively involved in policy-making in Nigeria, what are the changes or developments in your country that you are most excited about for the future?
C.E: In recent times, Nigeria, like many other countries, has faced its share of economic challenges. However, understanding economic cycles teaches us that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for optimism and hope. Economic cycles remind us that downturns are typically followed by upturns. It is during the recovery phase that we often witness significant advancements and positive changes. One of the developments that excite me for the future of Nigeria is the ongoing commitment to diversify the economy. If the policy implementation willpower is there, I believe that the country can attain a healthy macroeconomic environment status.
Glazia: In conclusion, can you share a message of hope and encouragement with our readers, especially during these challenging times?
C.E: It’s crucial to maintain a positive outlook, even when the path ahead seems daunting. Optimism is a powerful force that can drive us to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. In the face of adversity, we have an opportunity to become stronger, wiser, and more compassionate individuals. One last thing, practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge your efforts. Each small step you take in the face of adversity is a triumph.