Guided by a rare blend of entrepreneurial grit and cultural pride, Ifeoma Clyopatra Onyia stands as a trailblazer in multiple industries. She is the visionary founder and CEO of Clyopatra Winery and Vineyard, recognized as the first African immigrant–owned winery and vineyard in the United States, a milestone that merges heritage with innovation and celebrates Africa’s evolving story in global craftsmanship.
Her leadership in the wine sector, reinforced by her active membership in the Maryland Wineries Association, continues to open doors for diversity and representation within the industry.
Born with a passion for excellence, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Finance from London, where she built the strategic and financial foundation that fuels her multifaceted ventures today. Her entrepreneurial portfolio spans fashion, healthcare, and philanthropy, each venture carrying her signature of precision, creativity, and impact.
As the driving force behind Clyopatra Couture, Onyia bridges tradition and elegance through fashion that celebrates the sophistication of African artistry. Her designs have established the brand as a symbol of refined luxury and cultural authenticity.
Her commitment to service extends into the healthcare space as the owner of MISCO Medical Center, where she champions community wellness and accessible medical care. This venture mirrors her belief that leadership is not merely about profit, but about purpose, creating solutions that uplift society.
Beyond her businesses, Onyia leads with heart through the House of Clyopatra Foundation, supporting education, empowerment, and community advancement. Her humanitarian influence has been recognized nationally, earning her the President Joe Biden Lifetime Achievement Award and additional honors for entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
Rooted in faith and the lessons of her upbringing as the youngest of seven, she credits her perseverance and values to her parents, the foundation that continues to anchor her success.
When she’s not building enterprises, Onyia reconnects with her heritage through African history, farming, and gardening, pursuits that remind her of the beauty of cultivation, both of land and of people. Looking ahead, she envisions the Clyopatra Winery Village Resort, a serene family destination designed to blend culture, nature, and learning into one unforgettable experience.
Her journey tells a story of resilience, faith, and purposeful ambition, proving that when culture meets creativity, impact becomes inevitable. Through wine, fashion, healthcare, and philanthropy, Onyia continues to embody the brilliance of Africa on the world stage.
