YPC 2022 President-Elect Spotlight

President-Elect Q+A

Ngozi Igbokwe

Q: What is your position on the Young Professionals Connection board?

A: As president-elect, it’s my responsibility to learn more about the history of YPC and support all 16 chairs involved, helping them with their development and programming. The president-elect is also responsible for leading the DEI task force, a YPC strategic initiative, and helping plan events like the YPC Gala in the spring. The Gala is a way for young professionals to network and have that gala experience.

Q: How long have you been a part of the board? As president-elect, next year you will serve as YPC’s president, are there any particular initiatives or goals you have for that term?

A: I started as a Member of YPC in 2016. When I saw there were board positions open, I decided to apply and became a marketing chair. Our terms align with the fiscal year, starting in July.

What I want to focus on is continuing momentum in DEI, making sure we are more intentional and continuing to do things like updating application questions and figuring out the data behind who our members are.

Q: What is your favorite part about being a part of YPC? Are there any experiences that stand out as particularly impactful?

A: My favorite part of YPC is the connections I’ve made that I wouldn’t have made otherwise. We have access to events and opportunities within the network due to being part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, including the Annual Dinner.

Q: What is your favorite YPC memory?

A: The YPC Kickoff was a fun way to kick off the year. There was a camaraderie amongst the members, and you could feel the excitement of that event. Some of the smaller events, like the socials, made it easy to interact with other YPC members.

Q: What has been the hardest part about being a part of YPC? How did you work through this?

A: I don’t think there really is a hard part, but I want people to feel the excitement of YPC like I do. With the pandemic, it’s caused us to not have many in-person events, so the excitement was dialed back a bit. Right now, we’re trying to ramp up in-person events, networking and connection, so hopefully the excitement returns with these events.

Q: What are some upcoming events you’re most excited about?

A: The YPC Gala is coming up in May. We also have our Sips, Samples and Sights, socials and monthly new member meetups.

Q: What would you say to someone who wants to participate in the YPC?

A: If you’re interested in attending YPC events, a lot of events are free; however, when you become a member, you have access to the Annual Dinner and discounts with local businesses. It’s easy to apply online. It’s $35 for the year. You can get involved in committee meetings right away upon becoming a member, too. You can apply to be a board member right away as well.

Don’t think about becoming a member, just do it! We have a great talent pipeline. Many have gone on to become 40 Under 40, CEOs, etc. YPC is a steppingstone to help boost your career. You can take advantage of professional development opportunities and more!

Ngozi Igbokwe Ngozi Igbokwe is the president-elect for the Young Professionals Connection (YPC) in Greater Des Moines (DSM). She is a human resources and talent development professional. Often known for her positive attitude and tireless energy, she uses it to encourage others to work hard and succeed. Ngozi is inspired by her family. In her free time, Ngozi likes to hang out with friends and family, travel and volunteer in the community.

View the Young Professionals Connection (YPC) events calendar and stay up to date with their events.

Young Professionals Connection (YPC) aims to attract and retain young professionals in Greater Des Moines (DSM) by connecting emerging leaders to each other and to the community through social, civic, charitable and professional development endeavors. Learn how you can get involved.