A milestone in international scientific leadership and representation

Professor Lady Ngozi Franca Okoye’s candidacy for the Sigma Xi Board of Directors has attracted attention from newspapers, online publications, and media platforms in Nigeria and beyond.

Okoye is contesting for Full Directorship on the Sigma Xi Board of Directors, representing the Canadian/International Constituency, in the November 2026 election. Her candidacy marks a historic milestone, as she is the first African woman and the first Nigerian to contest this position.

Among the publications reporting on or sharing her candidacy are PUNCH and Pioneer Progressive Herald, alongside other news outlets and digital platforms that have helped bring the story to a wider audience.

The coverage highlights an important moment in Okoye’s career and draws attention to the growing international participation of African women in scientific leadership and governance.

A professor of biochemistry, software engineer, academic leader, and advocate for women in science, Okoye has built a career spanning technology, higher education, mentorship, and international engagement. She is also the founder of Young Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (YWISET), an initiative dedicated to supporting and encouraging women in STEM.

Her previous service on Sigma Xi committees, including its Committee on Nominations and global outreach activities, has contributed to her engagement with the organisation and its international community.

For Okoye, the significance of this candidacy extends beyond the result of the election. It represents an opportunity to contribute to scientific governance, strengthen international connections, and encourage greater representation in the institutions that help shape the future of research.

The growing media interest has also provided an opportunity to celebrate Nigerian achievement and highlight the contribution of women working across science, technology, education, and leadership.

Okoye has expressed her appreciation to the journalists, editors, newspapers, online publications, and members of the public who have reported on or shared her story.

As the November 2026 election approaches, her candidacy remains a significant milestone in her professional journey and a moment of historic representation for African women and Nigerians in international scientific leadership.

About Professor Lady Ngozi Franca Okoye

Professor Lady Ngozi Franca Okoye is a professor of biochemistry, software engineer, academic leader, and founder of Young Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (YWISET). Her work spans scientific education, mentorship, women’s advancement in STEM, and international engagement.

Fresh herbs may seem like a small addition to a recipe, but they can transform the flavour, aroma and appearance of an everyday meal. A handful of parsley, coriander, basil or thyme can bring freshness to even the simplest ingredients.

Different herbs suit different dishes. Basil pairs beautifully with tomatoes, parsley adds brightness to soups and salads, while thyme works well with roasted vegetables and slow-cooked meals. Coriander can bring a lively flavour to rice dishes, curries and homemade salsas.

One of the easiest ways to use fresh herbs is to add them towards the end of cooking. This helps preserve the delicate flavour of softer herbs such as basil and parsley. Hardier herbs, including rosemary and thyme, can often withstand longer cooking times.

You do not need a large garden to enjoy them. A few small pots on a sunny windowsill can provide a convenient supply, provided the plants receive suitable light and water.

Fresh herbs can also help reduce food waste. Rather than allowing a bunch to sit unused in the refrigerator, chop the remaining leaves into dressings, sauces or soups.

Cooking becomes more interesting when you experiment with new flavours. The next time you prepare a familiar recipe, try adding a different herb. A small change may give an old favourite an entirely new character.

---

WELLNESS — Learning to Enjoy Your Own Company

Spending time alone is often misunderstood. Some people associate it with loneliness, while others see it as an opportunity to rest, reflect and enjoy life at their own pace. The difference often lies in whether the time feels chosen and fulfilling.

Learning to enjoy your own company begins with small experiences. You might take yourself out for a coffee, visit a bookshop, watch a favourite film or enjoy a walk without feeling the need to contact someone throughout the journey.

Time alone can also help you recognise your own preferences. Without the influence of other people’s opinions, you have space to decide what you enjoy, what interests you and what you would like to explore.

This does not mean withdrawing from relationships. Human connection remains important, and solitude should not become a substitute for support when you need it. Instead, the aim is to feel comfortable with yourself as well as with others.

If being alone feels unfamiliar, start with a short activity you genuinely enjoy. Gradually, you may discover that quiet time can be refreshing rather than uncomfortable.

You do not need constant entertainment or company to make every moment worthwhile. Sometimes a peaceful afternoon spent doing something you love can restore your energy and help you return to daily life with a clearer mind.

Being comfortable in your own company is not about needing nobody. It is about appreciating the person you are when nobody else is around.

---

CAREER — Building Confidence in Meetings

Speaking during a workplace meeting can feel intimidating, particularly when the room is filled with experienced colleagues or senior managers. Yet contributing ideas is a skill that can be developed through preparation and practice.

Confidence often begins before the meeting itself. Review the agenda, identify the topics relevant to your work and think about any questions or suggestions you would like to raise. Having a few notes can help you organise your thoughts without needing to prepare a speech.

You do not have to be the person who speaks the most. A thoughtful question, a useful observation or a concise summary can contribute just as much as a lengthy presentation.

Listening carefully is equally important. Understanding what others have said allows you to respond meaningfully instead of feeling pressured to speak simply to be noticed.

If you are nervous, try contributing early with one straightforward point. Waiting for the perfect moment can sometimes make anxiety grow, while a small contribution can help you feel more involved.

It is also worth remembering that confidence does not require knowing everything. Acknowledging uncertainty and asking for clarification can demonstrate sound judgement rather than weakness.

Over time, regular participation can make meetings feel more natural. Each contribution becomes an opportunity to practise communicating clearly and respectfully.

Your ideas do not need to be extraordinary to be valuable. Sometimes the question nobody has thought to ask is the one that moves the whole discussion forward

A salad can be much more than a bowl of lettuce and a few slices of tomato. With the right combination of ingredients, it can become a colourful, satisfying meal that is full of flavour and texture.

The secret begins with variety. Combine crisp vegetables with softer ingredients such as avocado, roasted peppers or cooked beetroot. Adding chickpeas, lentils, eggs or grilled chicken can make a salad more substantial, while nuts and seeds provide an enjoyable crunch.

Flavour matters just as much as appearance. A simple homemade dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, mustard and seasoning can bring the ingredients together beautifully. For a different taste, try a yoghurt-based dressing with garlic and fresh herbs.

Temperature can also transform a salad. Warm roasted vegetables served with fresh leaves create an appealing contrast, particularly during cooler months. Meanwhile, cucumber, tomatoes and fresh herbs make a refreshing combination on warmer days.

One useful tip is to add dressing shortly before serving. This helps delicate leaves remain crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.

The best salads do not require expensive ingredients or complicated recipes. They simply need thoughtful combinations and a little attention to flavour.

Next time you prepare lunch, look beyond the usual lettuce and tomato. Your kitchen may already contain everything needed to create something delicious.

---

HEALTH — Why Regular Movement Matters at Every Age

Movement is an important part of everyday wellbeing, but staying active does not necessarily mean spending hours at the gym. Small amounts of movement throughout the day can contribute to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Walking, gardening, dancing, cycling and household activities all provide opportunities to move. Choosing activities you genuinely enjoy can make it easier to build a routine that fits naturally into your life.

Regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health, muscle strength, balance and mobility. It can also help improve sleep and contribute to emotional wellbeing. The right activities will depend on your health, abilities and current level of fitness.

For people who spend long periods sitting, taking brief movement breaks can be a practical starting point. Standing up, stretching gently or walking around for a few minutes may help break up extended periods of inactivity.

Consistency is often more useful than attempting an ambitious routine that is difficult to maintain. Begin at a comfortable level and gradually increase the duration or intensity as appropriate.

It is also important to listen to your body. Persistent pain, unusual breathlessness or dizziness should not be ignored, and anyone with health concerns may benefit from advice from a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise programme.

Staying active is not about competing with others or achieving perfection. It is about finding realistic ways to keep your body moving and supporting your wellbeing throughout life.

---

FINANCE — The Benefits of a Monthly Money Review

Managing money becomes easier when you understand where it goes. A monthly money review provides an opportunity to examine your spending, recognise patterns and make adjustments before small problems become larger ones.

You do not need an elaborate spreadsheet to get started. Begin by reviewing your income, regular bills, essential spending and any money you have put aside for savings. Compare these figures with your expectations at the beginning of the month.

Look for expenses that have changed. Perhaps a household bill has increased, a subscription is no longer useful or occasional purchases have added up more quickly than expected. The purpose is not to criticise every expense, but to understand your habits.

A review can also help you prepare for upcoming costs. Birthdays, annual renewals, school expenses and seasonal events are easier to manage when they are anticipated rather than treated as surprises.

Once you understand your position, choose one or two practical actions for the next month. You might adjust a spending category, cancel an unused service or arrange a manageable regular transfer into savings.

Keep the process straightforward. Set aside fifteen or twenty minutes at a time that suits you, and use the same approach each month.

Financial confidence does not come from having every detail perfectly organised. It grows from knowing your position, making informed decisions and responding thoughtfully when circumstances change.

A short monthly review can become a valuable habit that helps you feel more prepared for the future.

Few things are as satisfying as serving warm flatbread straight from the kitchen. Simple to make and wonderfully versatile, flatbreads can turn an ordinary meal into something special.

The basic idea is wonderfully uncomplicated. Flour, water and a little seasoning can create a dough that is rolled thin and cooked in a hot pan. Depending on the recipe, yoghurt, oil or yeast can add a different texture and flavour.

Once cooked, flatbreads can be used in countless ways. Fill them with roasted vegetables and salad for a quick lunch, serve them alongside soups and stews, or use them as a base for dips and spreads. They can even become the foundation for an easy homemade pizza.

What makes flatbreads particularly appealing is their flexibility. They do not need to be perfectly round, and you can experiment with herbs, seeds or spices to give them your own character.

Making them from scratch also brings a slower rhythm to cooking. Kneading and rolling the dough may take only a few minutes, but the result feels much more personal than something taken straight from a packet.

Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones we return to most often.

---

CAREER — Managing Your Workload Before It Becomes Overwhelming

A busy schedule does not always mean you are being productive. When every task feels urgent, it can become difficult to know where your attention should go first.

Start by separating genuinely important work from tasks that are simply demanding your attention. Write down what needs to be completed and identify the deadlines that cannot move. Seeing everything clearly can make a heavy workload feel more manageable.

It is also worth being realistic about how much can be achieved in one day. Constantly creating long lists can leave you feeling unsuccessful even when you have accomplished a great deal.

Where possible, communicate early if your workload is becoming unmanageable. A manager or colleague may be able to adjust priorities, redistribute work or clarify which deadlines matter most.

Small interruptions can also consume surprising amounts of time. Setting aside periods for focused work and checking messages at sensible intervals may help protect your concentration.

Managing workload is not about working as quickly as possible. It is about using your time deliberately and recognising when you need to adjust expectations.

A sustainable career is built not only on what you can accomplish, but also on knowing how to manage your energy and attention along the way.

---

TRAVEL — Exploring Your Own Town Like a Tourist

You do not always need a flight, hotel or carefully planned itinerary to enjoy discovering somewhere new. Sometimes the destination worth exploring is the place you already call home.

We often overlook familiar streets because we see them every day. Try approaching your local area with fresh eyes. Visit a museum you have never entered, walk through a neighbourhood you rarely visit or find out more about a historic building you usually pass without noticing.

Local cafés, markets, parks and independent shops can also reveal a different side of a familiar place. You might discover a favourite lunch spot or stumble across a small business you had never noticed before.

Another enjoyable idea is to create your own walking tour. Choose a theme — architecture, history, public art or green spaces — and spend an afternoon following it.

You may be surprised by how much there is to learn close to home. Exploring locally can also be easier on the budget and more flexible than planning a traditional holiday.

Travel is ultimately about curiosity. You do not have to go far to experience the feeling of discovering somewhere.

Sometimes the best adventure begins by taking a different turn on a street you thought you knew.

There is something satisfying about making pasta from scratch. It may sound like a project reserved for experienced cooks, but the basic ingredients are surprisingly simple: flour, eggs and a little patience.

Making pasta by hand offers more than a meal. It gives you the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the process. Mixing the dough, kneading it until smooth and rolling it out can turn an ordinary afternoon into a small kitchen ritual.

Fresh pasta also provides plenty of room for creativity. Once the dough is ready, it can be shaped into ribbons, sheets or smaller pieces. A simple sauce of butter and herbs can be enough, while tomato, vegetables or a light cheese sauce can create something more substantial.

The beauty of homemade pasta is that it does not need to look perfect. Uneven shapes are part of its charm, and each attempt becomes easier as you become familiar with the dough.

If making pasta entirely by hand feels ambitious, start with one simple recipe and give yourself plenty of time.

Cooking is not always about efficiency. Sometimes the pleasure comes from making something slowly, with your own hands, and sitting down afterwards to enjoy the result.

---

WELLNESS — Making Time for Play Again

As adults, we often organise our lives around responsibilities. Work, household tasks and commitments can leave little room for activities that have no obvious purpose. Yet making time for play can bring a welcome sense of lightness back into everyday life.

Play does not have to mean children’s games. It might be painting, dancing around the kitchen, doing a puzzle, playing a board game, gardening simply for enjoyment or trying something you have never done before.

The important part is removing the pressure to be good at it. When every activity becomes another opportunity to achieve something, it can be refreshing to do something simply because it is enjoyable.

Play can also be social. Laughing with friends, joining a casual sports activity or spending time with family can create moments that are remembered long after the day itself has passed.

If you feel that you have become too serious or too busy, start small. Give yourself twenty minutes to do something purely for fun.

Life contains plenty of responsibilities that deserve our attention. But it also needs moments that remind us that enjoyment does not always have to be earned.

Sometimes doing something simply because it makes you smile is reason enough.

---

REAL ESTATE — What to Look for in a New-Build Home

Buying a new-build property can be exciting. Everything looks fresh, modern and untouched, but a viewing should still involve careful observation and plenty of questions.

Start by looking beyond the decoration. Consider the layout and whether the rooms will work for your everyday life. Think about furniture placement, storage and how easily you can move between spaces.

Pay attention to natural light at different times of day if possible. Also consider noise, nearby roads, communal areas and the surroundings immediately outside the property.

Storage deserves particular attention. A beautifully presented home can feel very different once everyday belongings arrive. Check cupboards, wardrobes and utility areas carefully rather than assuming there will be enough space.

Ask about what is included in the purchase and what will be finished later. It is also sensible to understand service charges, estate arrangements and any relevant warranties or guarantees before making a commitment.

If possible, visit the development more than once and at different times. The atmosphere of a neighbourhood can change considerably between a quiet afternoon and a busy weekday.

A show home is designed to inspire you, but your job is to imagine living there realistically.

The most important question is not simply whether the property looks good. It is whether it will work well for your life.

A Nigerian-born scientist based in the United Kingdom, Professor Ngozi Franca Okoye is officially standing for election to the Sigma Xi Board of Directors — Full Directorship, representing the Canadian/International Constituency, in the November 2026 election.

There are moments in life when the significance of an opportunity is bigger than the outcome.

For me, this is one of those moments.

I am honoured to have been nominated and officially listed as a candidate for the Sigma Xi Board of Directors — Full Directorship, representing the Canadian/International Constituency.

I am one of the final two candidates contesting this Full Directorship.

For me, the historic significance of this moment is already clear: I am the first African woman and the first Nigerian to stand for election to this Sigma Xi Director position.

That history has already been made.

A long connection with Sigma Xi

My candidacy also builds on my previous involvement with Sigma Xi.

I have previously served within the organisation, including through the Committee on Nominations, and I have also served on the Global Outreach Committee.

Sigma Xi, founded at Cornell University in 1886, has a long history of recognising and supporting scientific achievement and leadership. Its membership has included many distinguished scientists, including Nobel Prize winners.

To now stand as an official candidate for its Board of Directors is therefore a deeply meaningful milestone in my own scientific and professional journey.

A Nigerian and African story

I am particularly proud of the fact that this candidacy carries a Nigerian and African dimension.

I was born in Nigeria and am now based in the United Kingdom. My professional journey has taken me through engineering, science, technology, academia, leadership and community service.

Before my current leadership responsibilities, I worked as a Systems and Software Engineer at British Telecommunications (BT) and as a Data Migration Scientist at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). I also spent 16 years in the university sector.

Today, I serve as a Director and Trustee of a UK educational trust, alongside my other professional and community commitments.

For me, this candidacy is therefore not simply about one election. It is another chapter in a journey of service, leadership and participation.

Enjoying the journey

I have decided to approach this campaign with gratitude and perspective.

Of course, I would be delighted to be elected. If that happens, it would create another historic chapter and give me the opportunity to serve on the Sigma Xi Board of Directors.

But I do not believe that the value of this experience depends entirely on the result.

History has already been made.

I have already become an official candidate.

My name is already part of the 2026 Sigma Xi election record.

That cannot be taken away by the outcome of the vote.

If I am elected, another history will be made.

If I am not, the first history remains: a Nigerian woman, an African woman, stood for this international scientific leadership position.

That is something I am proud of.

More than an election

I see this moment as an opportunity to encourage other scientists, particularly Africans and Nigerians, to see themselves in spaces where important decisions about science and scientific leadership are being made.

Representation matters.

Participation matters.

And sometimes the most important step is simply being willing to put your name forward.

My message to anyone watching this journey is simple:

Do not be afraid to step forward.

You may not know what the final outcome will be. You may not know whether you will be selected, elected or appointed.

But by stepping forward, you create possibilities that did not exist before.

That is what I have chosen to do.

Looking ahead

The Sigma Xi election will take place in November 2026, with the successful candidate beginning a three-year term on July 1, 2027.

Until then, I intend to enjoy the experience, embrace the journey and make the most of this incredible opportunity.

Whatever happens at the ballot box, I will be grateful that I stepped forward.

Because history has already been made.

And perhaps, if the opportunity comes, another chapter of history will be written.

Professor Ngozi Franca Okoye
United Kingdom
Candidate for Sigma Xi Board of Directors — Full Directorship
Canadian/International Constituency
November 2026

Our feet carry us through almost every part of daily life, yet they are often overlooked until something begins to hurt. Giving them a little regular attention can make everyday movement more comfortable.

Comfortable, well-fitting footwear is an important place to start. Shoes that are too tight, too loose or poorly suited to an activity can cause discomfort. It is worth checking the fit regularly, particularly if your footwear has become worn.

Simple foot care also matters. Keeping feet clean and dry, moisturising dry skin and paying attention to changes in the skin or nails can help you notice problems early. After exercise or a long day on your feet, gentle movement and rest can also feel beneficial.

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, numbness, changes in colour or other concerns, it is sensible to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional rather than ignoring the symptoms.

Our feet are responsible for supporting countless everyday activities, from walking to standing and exercising. Looking after them does not require an elaborate routine.

Sometimes good health begins with appreciating the parts of the body that quietly keep us moving every day.

---

FINANCE — Giving Every Saving Goal a Name

Saving money can feel much easier when there is a clear purpose behind it. Rather than simply trying to “save more”, giving each goal a name can make the process more concrete and motivating.

A goal might be a future holiday, a new piece of furniture, a course, a celebration or simply a financial cushion. Once you know what you are working towards, decide how much you need and roughly when you would like to reach it.

Breaking a larger amount into smaller contributions can make the target feel less intimidating. Even modest regular amounts can create progress over time.

Keeping different goals separate can also make your progress easier to see. You might use separate savings accounts or simply keep a written record of how much has been allocated to each purpose.

It is important to keep goals realistic. Your circumstances can change, and a savings plan may need to be adjusted. Changing the target does not mean abandoning the habit.

Saving becomes more meaningful when the money represents something you genuinely value. Instead of feeling like money that cannot be spent, it becomes money that is being deliberately set aside for a future purpose.

A named goal turns saving from an abstract exercise into a personal plan — one small contribution at a time.

---

FRANKLY SPEAKING WITH FRANCA — “I Feel Like I’ve Lost Myself”

Dear Franca,

Lately I feel as though I have become so focused on work, family and other people’s expectations that I have forgotten what I actually enjoy. I do what needs to be done, but I rarely stop to ask myself what I want. I don’t know where to begin finding myself again.

Franca says:

My dear friend, sometimes losing touch with yourself does not happen all at once. It happens quietly, through years of putting responsibilities first and telling yourself that your own needs can wait.

You do not necessarily need to make a dramatic change. Start by becoming curious about yourself again.

Think about what used to make you feel interested, peaceful or alive. Perhaps there was a hobby you abandoned, a place you enjoyed visiting, music you loved or simply a part of your personality that has been pushed aside by responsibility.

Give yourself permission to experiment. Try something without asking whether it is productive or useful. Not everything you do needs to benefit somebody else.

It may also help to notice the moments when you feel most like yourself. Pay attention to the people, activities and environments that bring out that feeling.

Finding yourself again is not about becoming the person you were years ago. You have changed, and that is perfectly natural.

The task now is to discover who you are becoming — not to return to who you once were.

Start small. Make one choice this week simply because it feels right for you.

With care,
Franca

There is something wonderfully simple about baking with fresh fruit. A few ripe apples, pears, plums or berries can turn an everyday dessert into something that feels special, without requiring complicated techniques.

Seasonal fruit is particularly enjoyable because it often provides plenty of flavour on its own. Apples can be baked with cinnamon and oats, while ripe pears work beautifully in cakes and tarts. Berries can be folded into muffins or scattered over a simple sponge before baking.

The key is to let the fruit remain part of the star of the dish. Too many competing flavours can hide its natural sweetness and texture. A little vanilla, cinnamon, lemon zest or ginger can be enough to complement it.

Baking with fruit is also a wonderful way to use produce that is becoming particularly ripe. Instead of throwing it away, transform it into a crumble, loaf cake or simple baked dessert.

There is no need to wait for a special occasion. A warm fruit crumble on an ordinary evening can make dinner feel like an event.

Sometimes the best baking is not about creating something elaborate. It is about taking a familiar ingredient and giving it a little time, warmth and attention.

---

CAREER — Learning to Delegate Without Losing Control

Taking responsibility for your work is important, but trying to handle every task personally can eventually become counterproductive. Learning to delegate allows you to share responsibility while giving other people opportunities to contribute.

Good delegation begins with choosing the right task. Consider what genuinely requires your expertise and what could reasonably be handled by someone else. Then communicate the expected result, deadline and any important information clearly.

Delegating does not mean disappearing. Agreeing on a sensible check-in point can help everyone stay aligned without creating unnecessary supervision. Give the other person enough freedom to approach the task using their own skills.

It can feel uncomfortable at first, particularly if you are used to doing everything yourself. You may notice that someone completes a task differently from the way you would have done it. Different does not necessarily mean wrong.

Delegation can also help colleagues develop new abilities. A responsibility that seems routine to you might provide valuable experience to someone else.

Strong teamwork is not about one person carrying everything. It is about understanding what needs to be done, trusting people with appropriate responsibilities and making sure everyone has the information they need to succeed.

Learning to share the workload can make your professional life more sustainable — and your team more capable.

---

HOME & LIVING — The Value of Multi-Purpose Furniture

When space is limited, every piece of furniture has the opportunity to do more than one job. Multi-purpose furniture can make a home feel more practical without making it feel crowded.

An ottoman can provide seating while offering hidden storage. A dining table can become a workspace during the day. A sofa bed can turn a living room into an occasional guest room, while a narrow console can provide both display space and useful storage.

The trick is to choose pieces that genuinely fit your lifestyle rather than buying furniture simply because it has several functions. A clever design is only useful if you will actually use those features.

Proportion matters too. Furniture should provide the necessary function without overwhelming the room. Before purchasing something large, measure the available space and consider how people will move around it.

Multi-purpose furniture can also encourage a more thoughtful approach to possessions. Instead of filling a room with separate items for every possible need, a few well-chosen pieces can serve several purposes.

The goal is not to make every object multifunctional. It is to create a home where furniture works naturally with the way you live.

A smaller home does not necessarily mean fewer possibilities. Sometimes it simply requires furniture to work a little harder.