Olorogun Michael Ibru is Honoured with Blue Plaque by Nubian Jak at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, UK

The Plaque Unveiling Ceremony and Reception in honour of Olorogun Michael C. O. Ibru was held on the 8th of April 2023 in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The event was organised to commemorate the legacy of the late Michael Ibru, a renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the Nigerian and global business communities. The event was attended by family members, friends, business associates, and dignitaries from Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The Plaque Unveiling Ceremony, organised by the Nubian Jak Community Trust (NJCT), a commemorative plaque and sculpture scheme focused on memorialising the historic contributions of Black and minority ethnic people, was hosted by Dr Jak Beula, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. 

The ceremony commenced with an opening prayer by The Reverend Canon Dr William Taylor. The Worshipful Mayor Cllr David Linsey then delivered the Welcome Address, expressing gratitude to everyone present and highlighting the importance of Olorogun Michael Ibru’s contribution to society.

Mr Obaro Ibru, a member of the Ibru family, delivered a touching tribute in memory of his late father. His Excellency Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, the Nigerian High Commissioner for the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, represented by Mrs ‘Remi Onasanya, was invited to deliver a tribute. Olorogun Ejiro Ughwujabo, National President of Urhobo Progress Union, United Kingdom, also paid tribute to honour Olorogun Michael Ibru’s contributions to the Urhobo community.

Other attendees who paid tribute to Olorogun Michael Ibru at the unveiling ceremony include The Rt Hon Felicity Buchan, MP for Kensington; Emma Dent Coad, Cllr. Joana Gardener and Cllr. Dori Schmetterling speaking on behalf of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The ceremony concluded with a Closing Address by Mr Mamemo Ibru, who thanked everyone for honouring his late father. Then, Miss Francesca Chiejina sang the Nigerian National Anthem, after which the Plaque was unveiled by Dr Mrs Cecilia Ibru and The Worshipful Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

Guests were thereafter chaperoned to a reception venue at The Dorchester The Right Reverend Bishop Michael Steele delivered a Prayer of Thanks, after which Olorogun Nero Ughwujabo, Senior Strategy Adviser at the Prince’s Trust, delivered a speech on Olorogun Michael Ibru’s impact on the Nigerian business community.

Dr Jak Beula delivered the closing remarks and a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to everyone who attended the event and contributed to its success.

The Plaque Unveiling Ceremony and Reception in honour of Olorogun Michael Ibru was a fitting tribute to a man who made significant contributions to the Nigerian and global business communities. The event successfully brought together family members, friends, business associates, and dignitaries to celebrate Michael Ibru’s life and legacy. 

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Small Steps, Big Impact: How You Can Make a Difference in Your Community

Communities are the backbone of society. They are the places where we live, work, and play. They are also the places where we can make a positive impact.

Making a positive impact at the community level is crucial because it can have a ripple effect. When one person makes a difference, it can inspire others to do the same. Here are a few ways we can make an impact in our communities.

 

Volunteer

Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to make a positive impact at the community level. Many organizations, like the Michael and Cecilia Foundation, rely on volunteers to boost operations. Volunteering your time and energy can help make a difference in people’s lives. Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

 

Support Local Businesses

Supporting local businesses is another way to make a positive impact at the community level. When you shop at a local business, you are supporting the local economy. This, in turn, can help create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Local businesses are also more likely to give back to the community, whether it’s through donations or sponsorships.

 

Clean up the Environment

Cleaning up the environment is another way to make a positive impact at the community level. This can be done by participating in local clean-up events or organizing your own. You can also make a difference by being mindful of your own actions. For example, you can reduce your plastic usage, recycle, and properly dispose of hazardous materials.

 

Attend Community Events

Attending community events is a great way to show support for your community. Community events can range from small gatherings to large festivals. By attending these events, you are not only showing support for your community, but you are also helping to build a sense of community. Community events can also be an excellent opportunity to meet new people.

 

Educate Yourself and Others

Educating yourself and others is another way to make a positive impact at the community level. This can be done by attending workshops or seminars or reading books and articles on different topics. By educating yourself, you can become a more informed member of your community. You can also share your knowledge with others, whether it’s by volunteering at a local school, orphanage, or church. Other information-sharing opportunities include conversations with friends and family.

 

Making a positive impact at the community level is vital because it can have a lasting effect. You can make a difference in your community by volunteering, supporting local businesses, cleaning up the environment, attending community events, and educating yourself and others. Remember, even small actions can have a significant impact.

 

Michael and Cecilia Foundation offers you the opportunity to make a huge impact today by joining our volunteer workforce. Send an email to volunteers@mandcfoundation.org and help us make a difference in today’s world.

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SWEAT IT OUT: MCF FAMILY FITNESS DAY

On Wednesday, June 12, 2019, popularly known as Democracy Day, Michael and Cecilia Foundation (MCF) turned up at the Delta Mall Warri for its maiden edition of Family Fitness Day.

Armstrong Li Cheering on the Crowd

‘Our goal for the fitness classes is to transform the fitness experience and inject fun into training sessions with an arcade-style environment while keeping students and staff healthy.’

The goal of this event is to promote fitness and encourage families to make exercising a part of their daily routine. As early as 7 am, fathers, mothers, youth, and children were running, jogging and sweating it out with the help of our VIP fitness trainers- Armstrong Li and EmmaPassions.

American Football Exhibition
Skipping Challenge

All the institutions under MCF were well represented at the four half-hours “activity session”. There were competitions and challenges on skipping, push-ups, battle rope, and dance. Winners were given gifts by MCF, MCIU and our sponsors.

Contestant during the skipping challenge
Celebratory hugs
Guests during the event

As the day progressed, more people joined in these fun but athletic activities. According to one of the participants, Mrs. Grace, the session was “one of the toughest she had done in a while”. She praised the organizer of the event (MCF) and fitness instructors. “ I did 10 push-ups. I’m so proud of myself” She said beaming.

Kids Dance Competition
MCFDS Orchestra

All through the event, the Michael and Cecilia Foundation Demonstration School (MCFDS), kept the crowd entertained. Our sponsors also gave out freebies and MCIU American Football team did a little parade which got a lot of cheers from the crowd.

Students during the Battle rope Challenge
Students during the Battle rope Challenge

By 10 am, the rains came down and this did little to dampen people’s enthusiasm. Competitions continued in the rain after which gifts were given. Coach Mike Akpan, Sports Master, and event coordinator were ecstatic that the event was successful. “ I thank the management of the Michael and Cecilia Foundation and our sponsors. It’s a great event and I’m happy everyone had a blast. There will definitely be a second edition, which I hope will be grander.”

Armstrong Li given instructions on battle rope challenge
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