Ikenna and KayOnda's journey began during the Fall semester of 2012 at THE University of Texas at Austin. KayOnda, who served as a facilitator for the New Black Student Weekend, was one of the first people to welcome Ike to campus and introduce him to the mentors and resources that would ensure his success as a purposeful newcomer. It was not until months later at a cultural showcase called Fest Africa, that Ike would approach KayOnda and ask for her number only to have his contact deleted shortly after due to a lack of consistent pursuit. Having nearly fumbled the love of his life, the following several months consisted of a tireless venture of Ike trying to return into Kayk's good graces, which he in fact did.
The signature motto of UT Austin is, "what starts here changes the world." From 2012-2015, two longhorns created a bond on the forty-acres and a love unfolded that will surely change the world.
Upon graduating from UT, KayOnda took her talents to Washington DC to pursue and earn a PharmD at Howard University, whilst Ike made his way to west Texas where he would further his education at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center. It was only by God's grace and non-stop flights from DFW to DCA that Ike and KayK were able to endure the agony of being 1,500 miles apart, but the couple emerged from this period even more in love and focused on a bright future ahead.
In culmination of a decade filled with love, laughter, growth and triumph, Ike bent the knee in April of 2022 in KayOnda's favorite city, Chicago. KayOnda and Ike were in Chicago for a pharmacy conference. With KayK distracted by work, Ike managed to sneak in the couple's siblings (Chris, Joe and Kassi) and plan the ultimate proposal overlooking the Chicago skyline.
The journey thus far has only been possible due to the love and support of those of you who nurtured and guided us along our various paths. God has truly had His hand in this union and its with great joy we invite you to celebrate with us as two become one in spiritual unity.