MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Iya Imelda Ngwendson

This month, we spotlight Iya Imelda Ngwendson, a longtime Fako America member whose connection to Fako is rooted in identity, service, and community. A medical practitioner and an active leader within Fako Women N’Endinge (FAWONE), she shares her journey with Fako America, the work that inspires her, and what keeps her connected to the community.

Let’s begin with your story. Who is Iya Imelda Ngwendson, and where are your roots?

I am Iya Imelda Ngwendson. My father is from Bova/Vasingi, and my mother is from Bonduma. I currently live in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

What professional path have you chosen, and what makes the work meaningful to you?

I am a medical practitioner: a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) working in family practice at Norristown State Forensic Hospital. I find the greatest satisfaction in helping to solve complex medical and psychiatric problems

When did your journey with Fako America begin, and how have you contributed along the way?

I became a member of Fako America during the Dallas Convention in 2010 and have remained a registered member ever since. I also served with the Health Committee during the Esele administration.

After so many years, what continues to keep you connected to Fako America?

I have remained connected to Fako America because Fako is my identity and my pride.

As the current President of the FAWONE America Chapter, how would you describe the organization and what it represents?

Fako Women N’Endinge, known as FAWONE, is a global sisterhood of indigenous Fako women. I currently serve as President of the FAWONE America Chapter, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with 173 registered members to date. We stand for culture, unity, peace, and the development of our communities in Fako and across the United States.

What are some of the ways FAWONE is empowering women and strengthening communities?

FAWONE empowers women and strengthens communities through several initiatives. Our annual scholarship program supports education, while our agropastoral program helps women preserve and process agricultural products. This program has benefited from land provided by some Fako chiefs and a solar dryer donated by Iya Notable Kate Fotso of Telcar Cocoa.

We also collaborate with the Delegation of Women’s Empowerment and the Family and the Women’s Empowerment Center in Cameroon to support International Women’s Day activities and help Fako women acquire lifelong career skills. Our long term focus includes maternal health initiatives because we believe healthy mothers and babies are essential to a healthy Fako and Cameroon.

How has serving as President of FAWONE shaped you as a leader?

Serving FAWONE has strengthened my commitment to servant leadership and reinforced the importance of patience, empathy, humility, and accountability. My experience managing medical and psychiatric emergencies at work has also strengthened my ability to remain calm and manage difficult situations under pressure.

How has your Fako heritage influenced the woman you are today?

My Fako heritage has instilled in me traditions and values that I carry with great pride. It has shaped my identity and the way I live, knowing that I embody the strength, culture, and character of a Fako woman.

Looking ahead, what kind of partnership would you like to see between Fako America and FAWONE?

As the umbrella organization for Fako people, Fako America shares with FAWONE a strong commitment to togetherness and cultural pride. Both organizations are helping to put Fako on the map. I would like to see greater partnership in promoting unity, culture, and development within our communities, while ensuring that our roles and objectives remain clear and complementary.

Thank you to Fako America for giving me the opportunity to share my story and be heard.

Back to front page