What’s your favorite time of day?

My favorite time of the day is the early morning, just after sunrise. There is something truly peaceful and refreshing about those first hours when the world is still quiet. The sky is often painted with soft colors of orange and gold, and the cool breeze carries a sense of calmness that makes everything feel new. I enjoy watching the light slowly spread across the day, almost as if nature itself is offering a fresh start.

What makes mornings so special to me is the silence. Unlike the busy hours of the afternoon or evening, mornings give me a moment to think clearly and prepare myself. Birds singing in the distance, the stillness in the air, and the gentle rhythm of the day beginning all create an atmosphere that inspires reflection.

I find that I am most focused and motivated during this time. Whether I use it to plan my day, write down my thoughts, or simply sit quietly, mornings give me the clarity I need to approach life positively. For me, each sunrise is not just the start of another day, but also a reminder of new opportunities. That is why morning remains my favorite time of the day.

What’s your favorite recipe?

My Favorite Recipe

My favorite recipe is fried rice, a dish I love for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. What makes it special is how it transforms basic ingredients into something colorful and delicious. The process usually starts with leftover rice, which I stir-fry with vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions. Then I add scrambled eggs and season everything with soy sauce and a touch of spice. Sometimes I include chicken or shrimp to make it more filling, and other times I keep it light and vegetarian.

What I enjoy most about this recipe is the creativity it allows. No two plates of fried rice ever have to be the same, and I can always adjust it to suit my mood or the ingredients I have at home. It’s quick to prepare, comforting to eat, and always satisfying.

Beyond the taste, fried rice holds personal meaning for me. It reminds me of family meals, where food was not just about eating but about sharing and connecting. Preparing it makes me feel at home, no matter where I am, and eating it brings a sense of comfort. That balance of flavor, creativity, and connection is why fried rice remains my favorite recipe.

Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.

The last thing I got truly excited about was completing my project, Edusity, a school management system I built. From the beginning, I knew it would be a challenging task, but I was determined to create something that could make a real impact in the way schools are managed.

What excited me most was seeing all the pieces come together—features like student records, class management, and communication tools working smoothly as one system. Each time I solved a difficult problem or added a new function, I felt a spark of joy and motivation to keep going.

The biggest thrill came when I finally saw the finished product running. It wasn’t just about writing code; it was about creating a tool that others could actually use and benefit from. Sharing it with others and receiving positive feedback made the experience even more rewarding.

This excitement reminded me of why I enjoy building projects: the blend of creativity, problem-solving, and the chance to make a difference.

How would you design the city of the future?

The city of the future, in my design, would be a place where technology, sustainability, and human happiness work hand in hand. It would be powered entirely by renewable energy—solar panels on rooftops, wind turbines along coastlines, and smart grids that ensure efficient distribution of power. Buildings would be eco-friendly, equipped with vertical gardens, rooftop farms, and smart systems that automatically adjust energy use to reduce waste.

Transportation would be clean, fast, and highly connected. Electric buses, self-driving cars, and high-speed trains would replace heavy traffic, while safe cycling lanes and wide pedestrian walkways would encourage healthier lifestyles. Air quality would improve, and noise pollution would be greatly reduced.

Green spaces would be woven throughout the city, not as separate areas but as part of everyday life. Parks, riverside walkways, and community gardens would create a natural balance, offering people space to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Waste and water management systems would be designed to recycle and reuse resources, making the city self-sufficient and environmentally responsible.

Beyond technology and environment, the city would be built for people. Public spaces would be welcoming and inclusive, giving everyone—regardless of age, ability, or background—an equal chance to participate in community life. Digital infrastructure would connect citizens to education, healthcare, and global opportunities, ensuring no one is left behind.

In short, the city of the future would not only be advanced but also sustainable, inclusive, and centered on human well-being—a place where progress is measured not just in innovation, but in the quality of life it provides.

Where did your name come from?

My name, Iheoma Uzoma, carries with it not just words, but stories, blessings, and identity. In the Igbo culture of Nigeria, names are chosen with great care and are rarely given by chance. They reflect the hopes, prayers, and values of a family, serving as both a reminder of the past and a guide for the future. My name is no exception.

The first part of my name, Iheoma, translates to “a good thing” or “something good.” When my parents gave me this name, they were expressing gratitude and joy for my arrival. To them, my birth was not just an event but a blessing — a sign of goodness entering the family. The name serves as a daily reminder that my life is meant to bring positivity, hope, and light to others. It encourages me to carry myself with kindness, to look for the good in every situation, and to remember that I am seen as a gift.

My surname, Uzoma, means “the good road” or “a good path.” This name symbolizes more than just direction; it is a prayer for a purposeful and fulfilling life journey. It reflects my family’s desire that I always walk on paths that are honorable, blessed, and filled with opportunities. Every time I hear or write my surname, it reminds me to stay focused on integrity and to choose the right direction, no matter how difficult it may seem.

Together, Iheoma Uzoma carries a powerful and inspiring meaning: “a good thing walking on a good path.” This combination of names gives me both an identity and a mission. It ties me to my cultural heritage while also serving as a personal compass for how I should live. My name is more than just letters put together; it is a story of where I come from and a vision of where I am going.

I take pride in my name because it reminds me that I am part of something larger — my family, my culture, and the values that have been passed down through generations. It is both a gift and a responsibility, encouraging me to live in a way that honors its meaning.

What motivates you?

Motivation is the driving force that keeps us moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. For many people, motivation comes from different sources—dreams, goals, loved ones, or even personal growth. What motivates me the most is the desire to become a better version of myself every single day.

I am inspired by the vision of what my future could look like if I remain focused and dedicated. The thought of achieving my goals, no matter how small, gives me energy and determination to keep pushing. Challenges often try to slow me down, but the idea of overcoming them motivates me to keep going.

Another strong motivator for me is the people I care about. Knowing that my effort and success can positively impact my family and community encourages me to work harder. At the same time, I am also motivated by learning and growth. Every new experience or lesson I gain makes me feel stronger and more capable.

Ultimately, motivation is about finding that “why” that fuels your actions. For me, it’s the combination of dreams, self-improvement, and the people I love that drives me forward.

What are your top ten favorite movies?

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Inspiring prison drama about hope and friendship.

2. The Godfather (1972) – Iconic mafia story about power, family, and loyalty.

3. Inception (2010) – A mind-bending sci-fi thriller about dreams within dreams.

4. The Dark Knight (2008) – Critically acclaimed superhero film with Heath Ledger’s unforgettable Joker.

5. Forrest Gump (1994) – A heartfelt journey through American history seen through Forrest’s eyes.

6. Parasite (2019) – Oscar-winning South Korean film about class divide and survival.

7. Titanic (1997) – Epic romance and tragedy aboard the famous ship.

8. Pulp Fiction (1994) – Quentin Tarantino’s stylish, non-linear crime masterpiece.

9. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) – Epic fantasy conclusion that won 11 Oscars.

10. Gladiator (2000) – A powerful story of revenge, honor, and the Roman Empire.

What do you enjoy most about writing?

What I enjoy most about writing is the freedom it gives me to express myself without limits. Writing allows me to take my thoughts, ideas, and emotions and shape them into something meaningful. It is a space where my imagination can run free, where I can create worlds, share experiences, and communicate feelings that might be difficult to say out loud.

I also enjoy how writing brings clarity. Sometimes my mind feels crowded with too many thoughts, but once I put them into words, everything feels lighter and more organized. Writing gives me a sense of peace and understanding, almost like having a conversation with myself.

Another thing I love is the power of connection. Through writing, I can share stories or ideas that touch other people’s lives, inspire them, or simply make them feel understood. It’s a way of building bridges between my world and theirs.

Most of all, writing feels like a journey of discovery—of learning new things, growing in creativity, and finding my own voice. It’s not just an activity for me; it’s something that continues to shape who I am.

What do you love about where you live?

What I love most about where I live is the unique blend of comfort, community, and character that surrounds me every day. There is something truly special about waking up in a place that feels both familiar and inspiring. The environment itself brings me joy—the fresh morning air, the natural scenery, and even the little everyday sounds that remind me I am home.

The people here make it even more meaningful. Neighbors greet each other with warmth, and there is always a sense of support when needed. Whether it’s small acts of kindness or larger gestures of unity during celebrations or challenges, the community spirit is something I deeply value. It gives me a strong sense of belonging and security.

Another thing I appreciate is the cultural richness. The traditions, local foods, and lively atmosphere make life more colorful and engaging. Even simple experiences like visiting the local market or taking a walk through the neighborhood carry a sense of connection and history.

Beyond the beauty and culture, where I live gives me peace. It is a place that motivates me to grow while still allowing me to feel grounded. I love that I can find both calm and energy here, making it not just where I stay, but truly where I call home.

What positive emotion do you feel most often?

Positive emotions are like fuel for our daily lives; they shape how we see the world, how we interact with others, and how we respond to challenges. Personally, the positive emotions I feel most often are gratitude, joy, and hope.

Gratitude comes naturally to me because I tend to appreciate even the small things—like a kind word, a peaceful morning, or a good meal. It makes me feel content and reminds me that happiness doesn’t always come from big achievements but from noticing life’s little blessings.

Joy is another emotion I experience frequently, especially when I spend time with loved ones or achieve something I worked hard for. Even simple moments, like laughter during conversations, can fill me with joy and lighten my mood for the whole day.

Finally, hope is a constant positive emotion in my life. Even when things don’t go as planned, I hold on to the belief that tomorrow can be better. This hopeful mindset pushes me forward and helps me stay resilient in the face of difficulties.

Overall, these emotions not only uplift me but also influence how I treat others. They create a cycle of positivity that strengthens my relationships and motivates me to keep striving.