ABOUT THE FOUNDERS

Peace Udechukwu-Ezeka and Onyinyeh "Ruby" Okeke launched PURE-Unity LLC during their graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2010. Their mission, however, truly began in 2012 when they relocated to Chicago after graduation. Both hailing from West Africa, Nigeria, Peace and Ruby were raised in Southern California after their parents immigrated to the United States in the early 1980s. Throughout their transformative journey in pursuing master's degrees in Mental Health, they recognized a profound cultural need within the African American community—challenges that were visible yet largely unaddressed. This awakening ignited their shared passion for educating and empowering this vibrant community. 

With master’s degrees in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and bachelor’s degrees in Education, Peace and Ruby bring over 20 years of combined experience in mentoring youth within urban settings. They are seasoned workshop facilitators and dynamic presenters who excel in fostering meaningful connections. As social activists and community organizers, they approach their work with authenticity, believing in the power of “keeping it real.” This philosophy enables individuals to engage with their present circumstances rather than succumb to wishful thinking that can obscure the realities they face every day.