Launching of the book ‘Beyond The Books by Mrs. Mary Obiechina Ifeakandu
A Nigerian PhD student, based in Canada, Mrs Mary Obiechina Ifeakandu recently launched her book titled Beyond The Books. In this interview with her father, Veteran Journalist, Tony Obiechina, Mary gave an insight into what motivated her to write the book:
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
My name is Mary Chinyere Obiechina Ifeakandu, a PhD student in Physiology and Pathophysiology at the University of Manitoba, specializing in spinal cord research. Raised in Nigeria, I earned my BSc and MSc in Physiology and began my career as a university lecturer before relocating to Canada for advanced research. Alongside academia, I built and managed businesses and worked across diverse industries. I’ve always loved this versatile perspective as it has strengthened my leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Today, I balance my studies with family life as a wife and mother of two, while pursuing my passion for empowerment through MaryEmpowers — a mentorship and career development platform. Through mentorship, coaching, and workshops, I help students and young professionals bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping them with the tools to thrive in leadership, career growth, and purpose.
What inspired you to start writing this book?
The inspiration came from my journey of navigating transitions; moving from academia into other sectors, running a business, embracing leadership and mentorship, and balancing graduate studies in a new country. Along the way, I saw how many students and professionals struggled with the same challenges: bridging the gap between theory and real-world impact and finding confidence beyond academic walls. These experiences led me to create Beyond the Books — a practical guide to simplify this journey and empower others to transition with clarity, courage, and purpose.
But the true spark came during a season of discouragement when self-doubt weighed heavily, then I prayed to God for direction. Out of the blue, a group member sent me a link to a publishing program. That single act of encouragement reignited my dream of using writing to give value to others, a dream I had carried for years but often set aside. Looking back, I realize that none of my experiences were wasted — each challenge was preparing me for this work.
Was there a particular experience or moment that sparked the idea?
Yes. During my time mentoring international students, I saw how many of them faced the same anxieties I once had: fear of failure, impostor syndrome, and uncertainty about employability. One student asked me: “How do I even start building a career beyond my degree?” That question stuck with me — and it became the seed for ‘Beyond the Books’.
Writing Journey
How did you balance being a student with the demands of writing and publishing?
Balancing my PhD studies with writing ‘Beyond the Books’ required intentional planning and discipline. I wrote the first draft between June and July 2024 with the support of a paid assistant who helped organize the book planning process and interviews with industry experts. Soon after, I paused the project to focus on my studies and health as I was expecting a baby.
The bulk of the work; editing, publishing, marketing, and planning for the book and brand launch took place between May and August 2025 during my maternity leave. It wasn’t the typical “rest period,” but I made the choice to sacrifice that time to achieve my goal before resuming school in September.
I was blessed with strong support: my mum and mother-in-law came from Nigeria, my husband was a steady pillar, and close friends contributed as well. With their help, I managed to balance it all, seeing the book as part of my academic and professional journey rather than a distraction.
What challenges did you face along the way, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenges were time constraints, funding, and the publishing process itself. I overcame them by breaking the work into manageable tasks, self-funding, and embracing self-publishing platforms that gave me creative control.
Did your studies at the University of Manitoba influence your writing in any way?
Absolutely. My research and my Advisor’s mentorship have sharpened my ability to think critically, structure complex ideas, and communicate clearly. More importantly, being part of a diverse academic community exposed me to stories and struggles from students across the globe, which made the book richer and more relatable.
Book & Themes
Could you briefly share what your book is about?
Beyond the Books: Your Guide to Transition from Academia to Industry is a career empowerment guide designed to help students and graduates confidently step into the professional world. It covers everything from personal branding, networking, and mentorship to overcoming fear, Job Search Strategies (Cvs, Cover letter & Interviews), evaluating job offers, and thriving in your first 90 days on the job.
What message or themes do you hope readers take away from it?
That education is only the starting point. To thrive, you need versatility, courage, and the right tools. My message is: you are capable of more than your degree — your impact lies in how you apply it beyond the classroom.
Who is your target audience, and why do you feel the book speaks to them?
The target audience are students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals navigating career transitions. The book speaks to them because it’s practical, relatable, and filled with insights from career professionals who have walked this path. The book and its mini-series are available on Amazon, Selar, Gumroad, Apple Books, Kobo, and IngramSpark, and through my website http://www.maryempowers.com.
Impact & Future Plans
What was it like seeing your book launched and in readers’ hands for the first time?
It was emotional, truly a dream come true. Seeing readers hold the book for the first time felt surreal, but what moved me most was hearing career professionals and experts review it with such high praises. Many described it as a practical toolkit that delivers real value for students, graduates, and professionals navigating transitions. Knowing that the book not only resonated with individual struggles but also gained validation from experts made all the sacrifices, sleepless nights, and trade-offs worthwhile. It affirmed that Beyond the Books is more than just my story, it’s a resource that equips others to thrive beyond academic walls..
How do you hope your book contributes to the wider community or conversation?
I hope it becomes part of a broader dialogue about career readiness and empowerment. By bridging academia and industry, I want to help reduce the gap that leaves many graduates feeling unprepared, isolated and unemployed.
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Do you plan on writing more in the future — perhaps another book or series?
Yes! The Mini-Series eBooks adapted from Beyond the Books are already live, each focused on a specific career topic for readers who prefer shorter, practical guides. I also plan to write more books expanding on mentorship, leadership, and resilience.
Personal Reflection
What advice would you give other students who dream of publishing their own work?
Start where you are, with what you know. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time. Break the process into steps, seek mentorship, and believe your voice matters. Through MaryEmpowers, we not only guide careers but also help aspiring authors bring their ideas to life, offering book publishing services from concept to becoming a published author. Learn more: http://www.maryempowers.com
How has this experience shaped you personally and academically?
It has deepened my resilience, strengthened my leadership, and reminded me of the power of storytelling in education. I now perceive myself not only as a researcher but also as a catalyst for change, empowering others through both science and words.
Finally, in one sentence, how would you describe your book to someone picking it up for the first time?
If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your degree into real-world success, Beyond the Books hands you the tools, strategies, and confidence to make it happen. A practical, empowering roadmap that helps you step out of the classroom and unemployment into the professional world with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
