Regina Askia-Williams, born Imaobong Regina Askia Usoro on December 16, 1967, is a renowned personality known for her versatility in various fields. Hailing from Lagos State, Nigeria, she proudly represents Akwa Ibom State as her state of origin. This Nigerian-American actress, model, nurse practitioner, writer, and television producer has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and healthcare sector. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of Regina Askia-Williams.
Regina Askia-Williams Early Life and Education:
Regina Askia-Williams was born at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi Araba, Lagos, to Elder Asika Usoro of Ukanafun, Akwa Ibom State. She attended the Federal Government Girls’ College in Calabar, where she obtained her Senior Secondary School certificate in 1985. Later, she pursued her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences (B.Sc. Biology) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), graduating in 1990. Notably, she initially started her tertiary education at the University of Calabar but was eventually transferred to the University of Lagos. During her time at UNILAG, Regina Askia won the prestigious Miss University of Lagos title in 1988, further enhancing her popularity.
Regina Askia-Williams Career and Achievements:
Regina Askia-Williams gained nationwide fame when she participated in the MBGN 1988 competition, securing the second position. After the winner stepped down, she took over the title and represented Nigeria at the Miss Charm International pageant in Leningrad, Russia, in 1990, where she also came in second. Furthermore, she made history by becoming the first Nigerian to compete in the Miss International pageant in Japan, attracting attention for her traditional attire.
Beyond beauty pageants, Regina Askia-Williams embarked on a successful modeling career, appearing in numerous Nigerian print and television advertisements for prominent brands. Notably, she featured in campaigns for Chicken George, Kessingsheen, Collectibles, and Visine.
In 1993, she made her acting debut as Tokunbo Johnson, a gold-digger, in the Nigerian soap opera “Fortunes,” aired on the NTA Network. Her acting prowess garnered several accolades, including the “Best Actress in Nigeria” award from Afro Hollywood London in 2000. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, she remained a prominent figure in Nollywood, starring in several video-exclusive films.
Education and Healthcare Advocacy:
Regina Askia-Williams’s commitment to education and healthcare led her to pursue further studies in New York, USA. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from CUNY College of Staten Island and later earned a Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner from Wagner College, Staten Island.
Regina Askia-Williams Personal Life:
Regina Askia-Williams is happily married to Rudolph “Rudy” Williams, an American whose lineage boasts a rich musical background. They have two children, Teesa Olympia and Rudolph Junior, while Regina has a daughter, Stephanie Hornecker, from a previous marriage. The family currently resides in New York City, where Regina serves as a family nurse practitioner.
Surviving 9/11:
In a harrowing incident, Regina Askia-Williams and her family narrowly escaped the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Just three months after moving to New York City, she safely made her way out of the World Trade Center during the devastating attack.
Regina Askia-Williams Net Worth:
$1.7 million
Conclusion:
Regina Askia-Williams, a shining star of Nigerian origin, has crafted an extraordinary life for herself, excelling in multiple domains. From beauty pageants to acting, modeling, healthcare advocacy, and education, she has made her mark on both sides of the Atlantic. Her journey stands as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of determination, talent, and compassion.
