From Grit to Grace: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Omoruyi

An Exclusive iNewsAfrica Interview with Dr. Julie Page, Respected Journalist and Media Analyst

By iNewsAfrica Editorial Desk
(Featuring Dr. Julie Page in conversation with Dr. Michael Omoruyi, author of “From Grit to Grace: A Memoir of Roots, Resilience, and Reinvention”)

Introduction

In a time when the African diaspora is redefining its narrative through innovation, identity, and integrity, Dr. Michael Omoruyi stands as a bridge between past struggles and future possibilities. His new memoir, From Grit to Grace, is a deeply reflective and visionary work that chronicles his transformation from humble beginnings in Nigeria to a respected IT professional, educator, and thought leader in the United States.

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Julie Page sits down with Dr. Omoruyi to discuss the heart behind his story, the lessons of resilience, and his call for a digitally empowered Africa.

Q&A SESSION

Dr. Julie Page:

Dr. Omoruyi, congratulations on the release of From Grit to Grace. What inspired you to finally put your story into writing?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

Thank you, Julie. For years, I carried stories of struggle, survival, and transformation that defined my journey—from a young boy in Nigeria facing limited opportunities to an IT professional and educator in the United States. I realized that my story wasn’t just personal; it was a mirror of the African diaspora experience—of grit, faith, and the pursuit of reinvention. Writing From Grit to Grace became a mission to preserve truth and inspire others who feel stuck between their roots and their dreams.

Dr. Julie Page:

Your book blends autobiography, social commentary, and vision for the future. How did you balance these three dimensions?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

I approached the memoir as both a storyteller and a systems thinker. Each chapter reveals a personal milestone, but also a broader question—about education, leadership, or the digital divide. I didn’t want to write a nostalgic story; I wanted to present a roadmap. So I merged memory with meaning—personal reflections anchored in the socio-economic realities that continue to shape Africa and its diaspora.

Dr. Julie Page:

There’s a recurring theme of technology as both a tool for empowerment and alienation. Can you expand on that?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

Absolutely. Technology has been my life’s language, but it can also become a barrier when access is unequal. In From Grit to Grace, I discuss how Africa risks digital colonization if we don’t build our own AI systems, data infrastructures, and education models. The future won’t wait for us. So, part of my advocacy is digital sovereignty—empowering Africans to create, not just consume technology.

Dr. Julie Page:

You’ve worked for over two decades in IT while teaching, mentoring, and leading community initiatives. How do you sustain that balance between career and calling?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

Balance for me is rooted in purpose. My professional work gives me stability, but my community and teaching work give me meaning. Every classroom session, every student, and every leadership challenge reminds me that service is legacy. You don’t retire from purpose—you evolve with it.

Dr. Julie Page:

One of the most emotional sections of the book talks about your grandmother’s influence. What lesson from her still guides you today?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

My grandmother taught me that grace follows gratitude. Even in hardship, she modeled resilience with humility. That wisdom shaped my philosophy—that transformation begins with appreciation. When we honor where we come from, we gain the courage to rewrite our future.

Dr. Julie Page:

The title From Grit to Grace is powerful. What does it mean to you now, after completing the book?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

It means evolution. Grit represents the hard years—the struggle, the long nights, the rejections. Grace represents wisdom—the ability to transform pain into purpose. Together, they form a complete circle of growth. Every chapter in the book is a journey from one to the other.

Dr. Julie Page:

If you could leave readers with one message after reading your memoir, what would it be?

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

That every life is a manuscript still being written. You are not defined by where you start but by how you respond to each chapter. Whether in Africa, America, or anywhere else, your story has the power to redefine what’s possible. That’s the message behind From Grit to Grace.

Dr. Julie Page:

Beautifully said, Dr. Omoruyi. Thank you for sharing your heart, your journey, and your vision with us.

Dr. Michael Omoruyi:

Thank you, Julie. It’s been an honor—and I hope this conversation sparks others to reflect, reconnect, and rise.

About the Author

Dr. Michael Omoruyi is an IT Specialist, educator, author, and founder of iNewsAfrica—a digital news platform amplifying authentic African voices. With over two decades of service at the New York State Thruway Authority and years of teaching experience in higher education, Dr. Omoruyi continues to champion digital literacy, leadership, and African innovation.

His latest book, From Grit to Grace: A Memoir of Roots, Resilience, and Reinvention, is available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and michaelomoruyi.com.

Follow iNewsAfrica channel on WhatsApp:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAPrqI96H4JXXQrKP1V