On Sunday, October 22, 2023, we at ILÉ IYÁN had the honor of hosting the Homecoming Event for the current Miss New Jersey USA, Derby Ozioma Chukwudi.
Celebrating Derby Ozioma Chukwudi
Derby Ozioma Chukwudi is a 1st generation Nigerian-American, born in Dallas, TX, raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and now residing in Hoboken, New Jersey. On September 29, she placed Top 20 at the 72nd Miss USA competition in Reno, Nevada. Derby’s mission is to inspire the next generation of leaders through her multi-talented background in communication, strategy, pageantry, financial education, and community development. She is passionate about advocating for financial literacy among young people, preparing them for a future of financial freedom and choices.
Derby’s Accomplishments
Derby is a member of the Global Investment Strategy Team at JPMorgan Private Bank in Midtown, New York. Prior to this role, she worked at the New Jersey Private Bank, advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals, families, and foundations on various wealth management matters. Derby joined J.P. Morgan in 2018 as a Summer Analyst and returned full-time in 2019 after graduating cum laude from Berea College with degrees in Business Administration and Economics.
She has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Moneywise.com, Essence, JPMorgan, Women’s Wear Daily, Business Insider, and Bella Naija. Outside of work, Derby is an award-winning Toastmasters public speaker, passionate about financial education. She volunteers within her community, mentors young adults, and empowers people, reminding them that their dreams are valid. Derby has been named a Finalist for the She Inspires Awards and Lead5050 Awards for 2023. In 2018, she was selected as one of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Scholars.
The Homecoming Event
The event at ILÉ IYÁN was a glamorous affair, attended by Miss Aviation Top Model and other distinguished guests. When interviewed about the warm reception at the Homecoming Event, Derby responded:
“It is an amazing feeling to have been honored by ILÉ IYÁN. It really showcases Lagos’ best, and everyone needs to have this phenomenal experience. Yesterday was amazing seeing people from all over come to show their support, love, and commitment. I am thankful, happy, and excited to be back! Special thanks to Chef Sanni and the ILÉ IYÁN family for setting the tone for what true support looks like! It feels so good to be back. Nigeria is where it all started, especially in Lagos where I grew up. Coming back not alone but with the Miss New Jersey USA crown – the first of its kind in 72 years since the pageant started in the USA – feels great. I was able to showcase African beauty on an American stage to show the world that Nigeria creates the best and brightest and to inspire my fellow Nigerians that dreaming BIG is for everyone, not only a select few.”
Derby also expressed her appreciation to her Miss New Jersey USA directors, Cindy Provost and Debbie Miller, and the Miss USA President, Laylah Rose.
Event Highlights
- Super Bike display by Road Kings
- Hadiza Traditional Dance Troupe
- Special performance by Irohinayo the Violinist
- Meet and Greet with beauty queens and fans
- Autographs and Press engagements
The Homecoming Event was fully packaged by Kenny Moore Events and featured:
Derby was elegantly dressed by top international designer Gabriel Tosh Luxury, with makeup by Beauty by Somii and hair by Tasala HQ Hair & Beauty.
Join Us for More Events
Stay tuned for more exciting events at ILÉ IYÁN, where we continue to celebrate the best of Nigerian culture and achievements. Check out our previous post about ILÉ IYÁN’s rapid growth in Lagos and our feature on African Brands on Silverbird TV.
For more information or to make a reservation, contact us.