Blending business with belief, and creativity with compassion, one African CEO Dr Nkem Imarue is proving that purpose-driven leadership can transform both industries and lives. At the helm of a successful design firm and a faith-based nonprofit, she has built two distinct yet deeply connected platforms: Freshstart Interior and Exterior Design, and The Circle of Godly Women Organisation. In this interview, she reflects on how her faith anchors her work, how design and dignity go hand in hand, and why empowering women is central to her vision for lasting impact. Excepts:
Q1: How has your faith guided your journey as an entrepreneur and nonprofit leader?
A1: Faith is my foundation. It keeps me grounded and ensures I build not just for profit, but for purpose.
Q2: What is the mission of the Circle of Godly Women Organisation?
A2: To uplift underprivileged women and children through advocacy, vocational training, mentorship, and community support rooted in spiritual values.
Q3: Can you explain how your design philosophy aligns with your philanthropy?
A3: Design is about creating peace, beauty, and dignity. These same values drive my NGO’s mission — to restore dignity to the marginalized.
Q4: How do you ensure that your business success translates to community impact?
A4: I set clear goals for both entities. While Freshstart is profit-focused, I redirect a portion of my earnings, time, and influence to the NGO.
Q5: What kind of support has the NGO received over the years?
A5: We’ve been blessed with local and regional recognition, some donor support, and volunteer partnerships that allow us to reach more people.
Q6: Have you collaborated internationally through the NGO?
A6: Yes, we’ve hosted international guests, and we’re now building alliances to bring the empowerment model to women’s shelters and churches in the U.S.
Q7: What are your dreams for scaling your nonprofit impact?
A7: To establish hubs across Africa and globally, where women can learn, heal, and thrive — spiritually and economically.
Q8: What’s one moment that reminds you your work is making a difference?
A8: When a woman who had lost everything used our program to start a small décor business and is now teaching others — that’s the power of multiplied impact.
Q9: If you could send one message to Global leaders about African women-led NGOs, what would it be?
A9: We’re not just recipients of aid — we’re innovators, builders, and partners in global development. Support our models; we know what our communities need.