We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nkem DenChukwu. Check out our conversation below.
Nkem, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Before I touch or look at my phone, or even have ANY thoughts, I go down on my knees and give thanks to God for being a part of today’s grace and mercy, and commend ALL to Him. Then, I use the restroom, take a sip of water, and start my daily workout at home for however long it is. Sing while in the shower in my off key, soothing voice (oh boy!), followed by my beauty and self-care routines while jazz or soft music plays on my MacBook. Depending on my program for the day, I do the needful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nkem DenChukwu, a mother of four amazing kids, a bonafide creative writer, a passionate filmmaker, a great cook (go and ask. Haha), and a lover of life with a strong faith in God. I delved into the arts of creative writing and filmmaking in 2012, and have since written & published 14 books, and produced 14 independent films with one award-winning 3D animation film, WHEN HEARTS TOUCH, adapted from one of my picture books, now streaming on Prime, TUBI, and YouTube after screening at the 2023 and 2024 Essence Film Festival in New Orleans, and won Best Animation at the 2023 AFRIFF – African International Film Festival in Lagos, Nigeria. My first award also came with a beautiful trophy for my first feature film, POUND OF FLESH, a “Rising Star” Award in 2014 at the CIFF – Canada International Film Festival. I chose to start writing for the younger generation because nurturing a young mind means raising a better-thinking adult. After all, children are the future, and the future starts now. I usually write about social issues, relatable stories to empower the young and the not-so young. I have written three Christmas books out of my fourteen. My latest book, “DEAR SANTA/GOD, Let Me Explain…”is scheduled to be launched in Houston on November 22, 2025, but available on Amazon and B&N on November 1, 2025. Signed copies on nkemdenchukwu.com.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
After giving birth to my first child 24 years ago! To carry a child for 9 months, in labor for 13 long hours, and finally giving birth to a beautiful human being was grace. It was amazing! Power to all women! However, to be a nurturer is equally powerful. Grateful to be one too.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
To be patient, grateful, kind, and hopeful in suffering. It is sooooo so hard to be. Easier said than done. But, when I remember how faithful and merciful God is, my heart is full. I always ask for grace, the grace of God, that is, then, my burden is made light. I also understood and always understand that God sees and hears me despite my imperfections. So, I am humbled to be still each season with a grateful & a hopeful heart.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Oh YES!!! What you see is what you get. I am as authentic as the definition of the word is, and as refreshing as autumn breeze. 😜
Some of my foundational philosophies are:
“I believe in living with integrity, empathy, and purpose. Every action should reflect kindness, joy, hope, love, and peace. Our every failure should teach us, not discourage us, while our every success should inspire us, not make become egotistical, selfish, or unkind.”
“I strongly believe in progress, not perfection because perfection is an illusion. I focus on growing a little each day, helping others as much as I can, and never forgetting to be kind to myself too.”
“Our bad experiences are not meant to break us, but to mold and teach us to be wiser, better, and live more intentionally & grateful.”
Last, but not the least, “To experience love in its fullness is grace, as much as kindness and self-love are.”
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My creative writing, films, books, and homemade foods.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nkemdenchukwu.com
- Instagram: @nkemdenchukwu
- Linkedin: @nkemdenchukwu
- Twitter: @nkemdenchukwu
- Facebook: denchukwu.nkem
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@streetcornerfilms6414?si=VycQ3RwTIYwRL3ei
Image Credits
Joseph Profit (Dallas, Texas) was the photographer of my professional headshot and the royal rose chair photo.
