This picture reminds me of many things.
Many people think they know me because they see me online, hear my voice, read my posts, or watch the noise surrounding my name. The truth is, very few people truly know Prof. Sandra Chidinma Duru, also known as Prof. Mgbeke.
I live a very private and peculiar life. The only people who truly knew me deeply were my late father, my grandmother, and my three beautiful children. Beyond that, many only know the version of me I intentionally allow them to see. Sometimes, I deliberately present myself as the simplest village girl who knows nothing. I ask questions innocently, laugh freely, and move quietly among people.
Some mistake simplicity for weakness. Some mistake accessibility for ignorance. Others mistake silence for emptiness. And others mistake my kindness and generosity for foolishness.
That is why I smiled when some ignorant people called me a fake professor, an illiterate, mentally unstable, crazy Facebook woman, or a school dropout. None of it moved me because people can only judge from the level of access they have to you. Many do not know the research works I have carried out, the concept papers I have written and helped countless leaders with, the policies and projects I have conceptualized or reviewed, or the production facilities and businesses connected to me. Some consume products and services linked to my work without even knowing where they come from.
Many also do not know that I have multiple academic qualifications and that I have been teaching and consulting for many years now. And beyond everything else, I genuinely love teaching, writing, mentoring, and researching. Those who truly know me understand that knowledge, purpose, and impact have always been part of my journey.
This picture was taken about 14 years ago, almost 15 years now. Looking at it reminds me of sacrifice, discipline, growth, motherhood, resilience, quiet battles, and purpose. There were days I carried baby Kemdi, Igwe, and Dikesinachi to classes and academic activities while still pursuing knowledge and building my future quietly. Though I do not like taking pictures, I still look back at moments like this and smile with gratitude.
I learned very early in life that the loudest people are not always the deepest people. Not every seed announces itself before becoming a forest.
June 4th, 2026 will be my commencement ceremony as a full professor in the United States 🇺🇸
While some people were busy trying to define me, God was still writing my story.
To God alone be the glory.
Prof. Sandra Duru, PhD
