Where are they now? A Q&A with international alumna Dr. Amarachi Ogbonnaya-Akpa
In a continuation of our “Where are they now?” series, we will hear from Dr. Amarachi Ogbonnaya-Akpa, an alumna from Nigeria and the founder of YOUniq Health, who completed the Chatham Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program in 2015. With her far-reaching professional experience in the healthcare field, Dr. Ogbonnaya-Akpa is able to offer valuable advice to domestic and international students alike.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Dr. Amarachi Ogbonnaya-Akpa,
DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, WHNP-BC
I am a triple board-certified nurse practitioner and the Clinical Director of YOUniq Health, a growing outpatient clinic based in Lincoln, Nebraska. I am passionate about integrating mental health care, innovation, and education to improve access and outcomes for diverse communities.
I completed my doctoral studies at Chatham University, where I built a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, which continues to shape my work today. Before Chatham University, I earned a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree from Babcock University, Nigeria, and a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Cincinnati, which enabled me to become certified as a Women’s Healthcare Nurse Practitioner (WHNP).
How have you progressed professionally since graduating from Chatham?
After graduating from Chatham, I pursued further training and earned postgraduate certificates from St. Joseph’s College of Maine and Brandman University (now the University of Massachusetts Global), becoming certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Soon after, I founded YOUniq Health, building on these experiences to create a dynamic career that integrates lifelong learning, clinical excellence, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
I continue to serve as a mentor and preceptor for the next generation of nurse practitioners, helping to shape compassionate, competent clinicians. Beyond clinical work, I’ve been honored to speak publicly on mental health awareness, access to care, and stigma reduction. These conversations continue to inspire how I advocate for patients.
What is the mission behind YOUniq Health?
The mission of YOUniq Health is simple yet powerful: to make quality health care accessible and personalized. Our work is anchored in the belief that healing is personal. Every individual carries a story, and each story deserves to be met with care that listens, understands, and restores. Our approach blends compassionate care with cutting-edge science. Beyond treatment, we are building a community that celebrates healing, connection, and the shared humanity behind every recovery story.
What is a challenge you overcame to get to where you are now?
One major challenge I had was balancing multiple professional roles and transitions. As an international student turned healthcare entrepreneur, I had to adapt to a new culture, navigate complex regulatory systems, and manage the realities of leadership, education, and clinical care while building something meaningful from the ground up. There were moments of uncertainty, but resilience and a clear sense of purpose helped me turn obstacles into opportunities.
Can you teach us something about Nigeria?
Nigeria is a mosaic of cultures and a land of extraordinary diversity with hundreds of ethnic groups and languages, among which the Igbo are one of the major groups. As an Igbo woman, I’m proud to come from a people known for their strong sense of community, enterprise, and resilience. In Igbo culture, we live by the saying “Igwe bu ike,” the belief that there is strength in community. From vibrant festivals and music to the warmth of our gatherings, Nigerians find strength in togetherness. And of course, no reflection on Nigeria is complete without its food, especially jollof rice, best enjoyed in good company, surrounded by laughter and the warmth that feels like home.
What advice do you have for prospective international students or scholars?
Embrace the journey fully. Your background is not a limitation but rather, a superpower. Use it to bring fresh perspectives to your field, stay curious, and never be afraid to ask for help. Build relationships with mentors and peers, as collaboration often opens doors that talent alone cannot. And most importantly, remember why you started. Your “why” will anchor you through every challenge.
Do you have advice for those who are looking to work in the healthcare field?
Healthcare is a calling that demands both skill and heart. Beyond mastering knowledge, cultivate empathy, cultural humility, and the ability to truly listen. The best clinicians are lifelong learners who recognize that healing often begins with understanding. Also, don’t be afraid to think innovatively. Finally, healthcare is evolving, and the future belongs to those who can combine compassion with creativity.