What exactly should parenting be about?
Reflections from the Launch of Inked Memory and unveiling of memory-history and legacy preserving journals The Dear Daddy and Dear Mommy by Otto Orondaam.
I recently attended the launch of Inked Memory by the incredible Otto Orondaam, and it was though-provoking experience.
The event featured a powerful panel session with three sets of families, sharing stories of family, legacy, and the values that shape greatness.
From inspiring anecdotes to profound life lessons, I couldn’t help but reflect on how intentional parenting and mentorship shape not just individuals but entire generations.
Here are some gems that left a lasting impression on me:
1️⃣ Professor Okonkwo: The Power of Intentional Parenting
Professor Okonkwo, a father of brilliant children, including Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, shared how proud he is of his children;
"I have gems... rare earth minerals, and the world is looking for them."
He reminded us that raising exceptional children isn't luck—it’s about being intentional, deliberate, and consistent. His parenting approach was rooted in values and education, not material wealth:
"If you want to study, face your books."
"If you want to be somebody, work hard and be focused."
"We never spoke to them about riches; we spoke about education and changing the world."
💡 Lesson: Greatness doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built on hard work, focus, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
2️⃣ Tonye Cole & Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole: Building a Legacy of Integrity and Independence
Tonye Cole shared how his father, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, set a standard that shaped his journey. However, he also shared this:
"My father had big shoes to fill... but I realized I didn’t have to fill them—I just needed to walk in my own path."
Their story highlights the importance of:
Leveraging opportunities without losing one’s identity.
Embracing education as a transformative force.
Exposing children to different cultures and perspectives.
Standing firm in integrity and independence.
💡 Lesson: Legacy is not about replicating success, but about carrying forward core values while carving out your own identity.
3️⃣ Omolara Cookey & Ibi Cookey: The Power of Documentation and Cultural Preservation
Omolara and Ibi Cookey emphasized the importance of preserving family heritage and documenting milestones:
Relentless documentation of family stories and achievements.
Celebrating milestones and capturing memories through photos, baby books, and family archives.
Communicating values early on and consistently reminding children of their importance.
Creating a spiritual foundation—prayers that “avail much” and form a spiritual heritage.
💡 Lesson: The stories we tell, the values we live, and the traditions we preserve shape our family identity and inspire future generations.
🌍 Preserving Family Culture and Legacy: My Takeaways
The stories shared by these incredible families sparked deep reflection on how we pass on values, wisdom, and traditions to the next generation. Here are a few key practices that stood out to me:
Document Family Stories: Keep records of family history, achievements, and milestones.
Celebrate Cultural Identity: Expose children to diverse cultures while staying rooted in their own heritage.
Prioritize Education: Make learning and knowledge a core family value.
Encourage Independence: Empower children to forge their own paths while staying grounded in their family’s legacy.
Build Spiritual Foundations: Regular prayer and spiritual guidance create a lasting anchor.
✨ Final Thought: Walking the Path of Purpose
Parenting is more than providing comfort or status—it’s about equipping the next generation with values, skills, and a sense of responsibility to make a difference.
Whether it’s educating with intention, embracing integrity, or preserving family culture, let’s commit to raising leaders, thinkers, and changemakers who are not just successful, but significant.
How are you preserving your family’s legacy? What values are you passing on to your children? Let’s share ideas and reflections! 👇🏽
#FamilyLegacy #IntentionalParenting #Values #Leadership #Mentorship #BuildingGenerations #EducationMatters