Ijeoma and the Magic of Giving: How One Wish Can Make a Difference

Rosemont Journal Article, March 5, 2025

Rosemont Elementary School students gathered at an assembly last Thursday (Feb. 27) to celebrate eighth-grade author Ijeoma Noel Conley who wrote “Ijeoma and the Magic of Giving: How One Wish Can Make a Difference”.

Conley read three chapters of her recently published book — an idea that began with a belief in herself and a fifth-grade lesson about Africa.

Conley said a favorite part of her book is a tune her grandfather sang when they were together that brings her comfort and pride. “I was born in Abagana, my hometown. Abagana is my hometown…”

When fifth-grade teacher Vicki Cline was teaching the class about Africa, Conley told her that her family was from Nigeria. Then Cline set up a Google meet with kids from a school in Abagana and the fifth-graders from Rosemont School.

It was a connection full of joy and laughter as the kids realized they were similar in many ways. They talked about what they did during recess, their favorite games, and the chores they did at home. Both groups shared a passion for soccer.

The school in Abagana wasn’t what Conley expected. It was a small, three-wall building with a metal roof, and the desks and chairs were old and worn. “I wish I could give you what I have here,” Conoley told the students in Abagana.

That fifth-grade experience sparked her passion for service. Now, Conley is not only an author and philanthropist, but also a professional DJ and athlete, using her talents to engage and inspire others.

“I am very proud of Ijeoma’s accomplishments, and she has been a wonderful role model for the students at Rosemont,” Cline said.

Why did she write a book? “I wanted to inspire young kids my age, and it was a way to get my story out there,” Conley said.

Conley sat at a Meet the Author table while each student received a copy of her book. Principal Peter Schaul said the gathering was to celebrate the book, the theme of giving, reading and a belief in inspiration.

Conley’s book is available for purchase on Amazon for $14.95 or $12.95 directly from her. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Ije Cares Foundation.

Her book will be translated into Spanish and Igbo, a widely spoken language in Nigeria, allowing her message to reach even more young readers in different parts of the world.

What was Conley’s response about the assembly? “Wonderful,” she said. “I’m very excited to continue my journey.”

That she does, setting an example for Rosemont students, showing them that leadership, service, and making a difference can start at any age.

Some of the amazing accomplishments of Conley, philanthropist, athlete, author and DJ, include:

• Founded the Ije Cares Project, which has provided resources for schools in Nigeria, supported survivors of domestic violence, and encouraged youth-led philanthropy.
• Donated $1,000 to CAWC (Chicago Alliance Against Domestic Violence) — funds raised through DJing, selling chocolates, and vendor fairs.
• Performed as a DJ at major events, including the Barack Obama Foundation, Mayor Brandon Johnson’s events, the Chicago Public Library Launch, and Mayor Brad Stephens’ Family Fun Events in Rosemont.

What’s Next for Ijeoma?

She is continuing her mission by:

• Providing food and supplies to orphanages and homes for people with disabilities in Nigeria.
• Raising funds for boreholes, school supplies and other essentials for rural villages in Nigeria.
• Supporting a Chicago women’s shelter for survivors of domestic violence.
• Expanding her speaking and author tour to build awareness about youth-led philanthropy.
• Conley’s vision is to inspire youth around the world to think of others and give back. Her motto is Giving is Essential.

For videos and more stories about Ijeoma’s work, visit www.ijeomanoel.com.