- 02 Apr 2025
Mary’s Journey Through Online Romance Scam
Mary Bernadette Negron, a highly accomplished businesswoman based in Augusta, Georgia, had always been in control of her professional life. She had built a successful career and established a thriving business, but in her personal life, she yearned for companionship. After years of focusing on her career, Mary decided to explore online dating, hoping to meet someone with whom she could share her life.
It wasn’t long before she connected with Chinazo Raymond Ngamegbulam, an attractive and charismatic man who seemed to have all the qualities she was looking for. They began an online relationship, messaging and video chatting regularly. Chinazo was attentive, caring, and seemingly eager to make Mary feel special. He shared stories of his life, including his struggles with his immigration status and the challenges he faced in securing his green card.
As the months went by, Mary became emotionally invested in their online relationship. Chinazo’s promises of love and commitment were convincing, and she believed they were building something real. Eventually, Chinazo asked Mary for help with his immigration process, claiming that he needed financial assistance to cover the costs of legal fees and other expenses related to obtaining his green card. He promised that once everything was settled, they could begin their life together in person.
Mary, eager to support him and believing in the sincerity of their relationship, sent him money. She thought of it as an investment in their future, convinced that the man she had come to care for was genuine. But as time passed, Chinazo’s requests became more frequent and more demanding. Despite sending him money, Mary’s feelings of unease began to grow. Chinazo’s messages became less frequent, and he seemed more interested in her financial assistance than in maintaining a connection.
Mary’s Realization:
The turning point came when Mary began to notice that Chinazo’s story didn’t quite add up. His promises to meet her in person were always delayed, and his excuses became increasingly implausible. Mary began questioning his intentions and did some research into the patterns of online romance scams. She quickly realized that Chinazo had been using her for financial gain and possibly to secure his green card under false pretenses.
Devastated by the realization that her relationship had been built on deception, Mary confronted Chinazo. He admitted that he had been using her to secure immigration benefits, but his interest in her was never genuine. He cut off all communication with her once he knew she had uncovered his scam.
Mary’s Recovery:
As an empowered businesswoman, Mary wasn’t going to let this experience define her. She sought legal advice to protect her finances and began working with a counselor to process the emotional toll the scam had taken on her. It wasn’t easy, but with the support of family and friends, Mary rebuilt her life and took steps to prevent further manipulation.
Susan's Akerele Foundation's Support:
In the wake of her ordeal, Susan's Akerele Foundation stepped in to offer Mary additional support. Recognizing Mary’s entrepreneurial spirit and her desire to expand her business internationally, the foundation helped her secure a business visa to visit Africa. This opportunity allowed Mary to continue her professional growth and build meaningful connections with potential partners across the continent. With the foundation’s help, Mary embarked on a new chapter, focusing on her career and exploring new business ventures in Africa.
Mary’s Advocacy:
Motivated by her experience, Mary became an advocate for victims of online romance scams. She wanted others to learn from her story and avoid falling into the same trap. Partnering with Susan’s Akerele Foundation, Mary began working to raise awareness about the dangers of online relationships that prey on vulnerable individuals.
Through Susan’s Akerele Foundation, Mary has been part of various campaigns to educate the public about recognizing the warning signs of online romance scams, including red flags such as requests for money, reluctance to meet in person, and an overemphasis on immigration or financial struggles.
Mary’s work also focuses on helping victims of online romance scams regain their confidence, offering them resources for counseling and legal support. She’s passionate about empowering individuals to make informed choices and take control of their emotional and financial well-being.
Mary’s Hope for the Future:
Today, Mary is not only flourishing in her business but also remains dedicated to spreading awareness and supporting victims of online scams. She believes that through education, support, and vigilance, more people can avoid falling victim to online fraud.
Her story serves as a reminder that true love is built on trust, communication, and mutual respect, and that people should remain cautious, especially when relationships begin in the online world. Mary is committed to helping others recognize the dangers of online scams and ensure that future relationships, whether virtual or real, are based on authenticity.
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