Josephine Nwaogu proudly holds the title of Miss Diaspora Nigeria-USA 2025, representing the Nigerian diaspora with both purpose and passion. Beyond her crown, she is currently a Juris Doctor candidate at SMU Dedman School of Law, specializing in intellectual property and serving as a Chief Student Attorney in the school’s Trademark Clinic. She is committed to leveraging her platform to enhance educational access in Nigeria through mentorship, resources, and opportunities. Her initiative, Roots and Wings, aims to close gaps in access and empower students to chase brighter futures.
In this captivating interview with Fourwall Magazine, she shares her experiences of winning the crown, her journey in the industry, upcoming projects, and much more.
Congratulations for emerging Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA! How does this make you feel?
Thank you! Being crowned Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA is both humbling and inspiring. It feels like a recognition of my commitment to education, culture, and service, and it reminds me of the responsibility I now have to represent my community with excellence.
How did your journey in pageantry begin?
I entered pageantry as a way to challenge myself, step outside my comfort zone, and amplify my voice. I’ve always been an advocate and service-oriented, and pageantry became a platform for me to merge my passion with purpose in a way that reaches more people.
What would you say set you apart from others?
Authenticity and intentionality. I was very clear on my “why,” and everything I did—from my walk to my talent and costume—reflected that purpose. I wasn’t just competing to win a crown; I was competing to create impact and represent Nigerian women in a meaningful way.
What challenges did you face during the pageant, and how did you overcome them?
Balancing law school, my internship, and preparation was my biggest challenge. There were moments when I felt stretched thin. I overcame it by leaning on my faith, my support system, and reminding myself why I was there in the first place.
What motivated you to compete for Miss Diaspora Nigeria USA?
I wanted to show young women that they can be multifaceted. You can be a law student, a professional, and still step confidently into a space like pageantry. I also saw this as a way to highlight causes I deeply care about, including education and access to opportunities.
What does winning this crown mean to you?
It is a responsibility. The crown is not just a symbol of beauty but a call to action. It means I have the privilege to use my platform to support important causes, amplify our country, and represent Nigerians in the diaspora with pride.
Through my Roots and Wings initiative, I am partnering with the Fourwall Charity Foundation in honor of their 10th anniversary to expand educational access and provide resources for students in Nigeria. This collaboration is an exciting step toward creating lasting opportunities for young people to thrive.
Now that you have been crowned, what is next for you?
I am focused on launching my “Roots and Wings” initiative, which is aimed at expanding access to higher education and resources for Nigerian students. I am also partnering with the organization’s End Hunger campaign to address food insecurity and looking forward to community appearances and collaborations that will amplify these efforts.
In pageantry, do you have a mentor? If yes, who and why?
Yes, I look up to women who have successfully used their platforms to create lasting impact, not just in pageantry but in leadership. I draw inspiration from past queens and professional mentors who remind me that grace and grit can coexist.
Any project you are working on at the moment? If yes, share with us.
Yes! Through my Roots and Wings initiative, I am partnering with the Fourwall Charity Foundation in honor of their 10th anniversary to expand educational access and provide resources for students in Nigeria. This collaboration is an exciting step toward creating lasting opportunities for young people to thrive.
What is your vision for society, and what impact would you like to make?
I envision a society where young people, especially young women, have equal access to education and opportunities regardless of where they start. I want to be part of building pathways that connect those in need with resources and empower the next generation to dream bigger.
Which brands are you looking forward to working with?
I am excited about collaborating with education-focused nonprofits, African diaspora brands, fashion and beauty companies that celebrate cultural identity, and organizations that invest in youth development.
If you were not a model, what other career would you have pursued?
I am currently pursuing law, focusing on intellectual property and employment law. So I’d be right where I am now, promoting fairness, innovation, and representation in the legal space.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I see myself as a practicing attorney, continuing to be a voice for young women and using my skills and platform to drive impact in education and representation.
What message do you have for young women aspiring to become beauty queens?
Know your why. Pageantry is more than gowns and crowns; it is about purpose, resilience, and service. Believe in yourself, put in the work, and stay authentic because the world needs the version of you that only you can bring.