Uleyi

Timeline

From 1946, with intention.

Eight decades. One thread of faith, family, and the quiet keeping of standards.

  1. 1946

    Born in Calabar

    The second of eleven children, into a family of service and song.

  2. 1962

    Steps into a classroom

    Her first teaching post, the beginning of a forty-year vocation.

  3. 1963

    Marries John Ugbe

    3rd February. A primary school headmaster. A vow that would hold for thirty-three years.

  4. 1965, 1980

    Five children, one household

    Emmanuel, Patrick, Sheila, John Jr., Laura, raised with discipline and love in equal measure.

  5. 1970s

    Founds the garage atelier

    Sewing machines move into the garage. Generations of women in Calabar learn a trade.

  6. 1980s, 2000s

    President, Obudu Women Development Association

    Long-term leadership of a community that became a movement.

  7. 1996

    John passes

    A bus accident. She carries on, upright, with the children watching.

  8. 2004

    Retires from teaching

    The Secondary Schools Education Board releases her. The community keeps her.

  9. Today

    Still keeping the standard

    Lady Knight of St. Mulumba. Madonna Sister. Grandmother. Watchwoman.