ABOUT US
The Tabitha Empowerment Foundation (TEF) is a non-profit organization focused on programs that support the people of Southeast Nigeria. The foundation's efforts are born out of concern for the struggles of local communities in the absence of a solid welfare system or social safety net in Nigeria.
We work to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the poorest communities by providing resources to improve well-being and encourage activities that increase self-sufficiency. We aspire to promote peoples’ ability to positively contribute to their communities, the region, and the country. Empowerment is the heart of our organization, and we believe it is key to inspiring change, uplifting individuals, and caring for communities.
Our foundation’s mission is regional, focusing on the five states — Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo — of Southeast Nigeria.
Southeast Nigeria is the smallest of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. It’s the native heartland of the Igbo people, the region's largest ethnic group, making up over 90% of its population of roughly 22 million people. Though this region contributes significantly to the country’s economy, being the home of oil and natural gas reserves, most have not benefitted from it.
Similar to the country as a whole, Southeast Nigeria is characterized by poverty and high unemployment. Families struggle to support their children, while young adults lack opportunities to advance after completing their education. People do what they can, engaging in trade and other small-scale economic activities, to survive and help their families.
OUR STORY
Eunice Ikwuagwu
Founder
Mrs. Eunice Ikwuagwu is married to Mr. Shedrack Ikwuagwu from Umunachi Village Nkwere, located in Southeast Nigeria’s Imo State. When she was a young primary school girl in her native village of Awaka, also located in Imo State, she wrote about what she wanted to be in the future. Others wrote about being teachers, engineers, politicians, and other professions, but she was the only one who wrote about being a philanthropist. Surprised, her teacher pulled her aside and asked her to define the word and describe what she meant. She said a philanthropist is “a person who helps other people.” She didn’t know how she would do it, but that’s who Eunice wanted to be.
TEF is that young girl’s dream realized. After moving to America in 1996, Eunice maintained strong ties to her local community in Nigeria. During visits home, she was deeply affected by the struggles of the people she knew and those she didn’t, who had no means of support. She considered how fortunate her relatives were to have family overseas, but what about others without opportunities, resources, or assistance? She wanted to help.
Using her own resources, Eunice began regularly shipping barrels of goods to be shared with those in local communities. Her relationship with churches helped her reach people and learn about the needs of families. Through these activities, she planted the seeds of the foundation’s work. While officially becoming an organization in 2023, TEF started over two decades ago when she unofficially began its mission.
Three important figures inspired Eunice to lead a life of impact. Although they have passed, their legacies and spirit shine through TEF’s mission, vision, and values.
Mother Faith Adaku Ejiogu was a beloved mother and grandmother, who was well known for her big heart and benevolent spirit.
Growing up, Eunice witnessed her mother struggle to support the family as a young widow. Despite these circumstances, Faith never stopped showing concern for others. Whether lending farm tools, sharing meals, or offering encouragement and advice, she tried to help alleviate her neighbors’ burdens. She gave freely without hesitation, not waiting until she had more but rather giving from what she did have.
Her Christian faith influenced how she lived her life and raised her children. She was a devoted member of the Anglican Church, serving as a Sunday School teacher and a Church synod deligate for many years.
From her mother, Eunice learned her most valuable life lesson: live generously.
Dr. Charles Ejiogu was a philantropist who looked for ways to uplift others through what he called, “Human Capital Investment” — his personal initiative to help others help themselves.
He started his career teaching in various African countries and later served as a Senior Population Affairs Director for Africa, Asia, and the Far East at the United Nations, New York.
Dr. Ejiogu traveled extensively and was exposed to human suffering caused by poor economic conditions and lack of education. He was inspired to invest in education at all levels for those in his extended family and community. He also funded numerous small business ventures to support local crafts people.
Many benefited from his kindness including Eunice. The impact of his initiative is still visible today in the lives of those he invested in.
Sister Margaret Amuchie was a steadfast member of the Anglican Communion. Her Christian faith was the central pillar of her life. As a member of the Evangelical Fellowship and Scripture Union, service to others was something Sister Margaret valued dearly.
Sister Margaret worked in the financial department of Alvin Ikoko College of Education. There she kept accounts of the College’s incoming funds. Her trustworthiness and dedication to her work was widely recognized by colleagues.
Using her church relationships, Sister Margaret worked closely with Eunice on outreach projects that benefitted the most vulnerable. Her influence is represented in TEF’s focus areas and how we approach our work.
Who was Tabitha?
Tabitha, called Dorcas in Greek, was a disciple of Jesus Christ known for her charitable deeds and kindness. Tabitha sewed garments for widows and those in need, using her skills to make a difference in her community. More than clothes, she sewed hope with her compassion and generosity. She inspires us to approach the world with empathy and care for others in whatever way we can. No act is too small. We can all be Tabitha!
