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Omowale Ajose-Adeogun, a Laidlaw Scholar at Säid Business School, on overcoming despair, the future of Africa and the importance of education.

I was born and have lived in Lagos, Nigeria, all my life. Growing up in a middle-class household afforded me the opportunity to access high-quality early education, which I believe is monumental to the exposure and life perspective I am now so grateful for. Many Nigerian women and girls have not been as fortunate. I believe that the patriarchal norms prevalent in Nigeria, which have stifled the progress of the many women who are not allowed to go to school or work, are one of the key hindrances to our development as a nation.

I came to realize that gender parity and economic development are themes that resonate strongly with me, and so in line with my desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of my society, after about 7 years of working as a consultant/ investment banker, I decided to forge a new path in impact investment/development finance. To bolster my success in this journey, I sought the platform and opportunities offered by a top MBA program.

In addition to its highly reputable academic standing, I was drawn to Saïd Business School because of its commitment to the success of women as leaders as well as its focus on Africa’s development. Applying for the Laidlaw scholarship was a no-brainer for me, not just because of how closely aligned my values are with that of the Foundation but also because it was a means for me to realize my dreams. I am a firm believer that education can be used as a steam to power the emancipation of women, likewise the evolution of Africa, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a diverse network of changemakers.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

“Don’t get bitter, get better”. This, to me, is like a more poetic way of saying when life gives you lemons, you make sweet lemonade. It’s easier to get overwhelmed by some tough life circumstances but focusing on upturning/transforming them rather than wallowing in despair often yields great success.

“You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. You have to trust the dots will somehow connect in your future.”- Steve Jobs

What is the worst piece of advice you have been given?

“If you can’t beat them, join them”

Top 3 tips that will help someone become a better leader

⚡ Be human, be emphatic

⚡Never stop learning

⚡ Have an open mind, be generous with second chances

Which leaders in the world inspire you the most and why?

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, she was able to break several glass ceilings in politics and governance in Nigeria. 

Sheryl Sandberg, her unconventional leadership trajectory, as well as her ability to transform one of the largest companies in the world today, are truly inspiring.

What does it mean for you to be a Laidlaw Scholar?

Being selected as a Laidlaw scholar is truly an honour. It means that I get to realize my aspirations of attending a globally renowned school whilst leveraging the opportunities presented by the diverse Laidlaw scholar network.  It means I am a part of a community of exceptional people passionate about change on a global level.

Briefly describe a scene from the future you are striving to create.

It’s an investor forum organized by an Africa-focused DFI. A bevy of investors from around the world are in attendance and are greatly impressed at the display of innovation and aptitude by a group of young, highly talented, African-trained founders. These founders, who are mostly women, are able to put forward air-tight investment cases and eloquently address concerns/comments from potential investors. The depth of knowledge and confidence on display is unmatched.  In the end, they are able to garner millions of dollars in investor commitments for growth capital that would see them employ thousands of talented youth to solve problems in agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy and microfinance.

Something personal to add

Go and follow the work of The Special Foundation!

Quick-Fire Questions

📺 Currently binging: Devils

🎵 My current anthem: Break my Soul by Beyoncé

📚 My top book recommendation: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

🎧 Podcast obsession: I Said What I Said

🌈 Something that made me feel joy recently: Watching my little sister, who’s currently in law school, take the opening statement in a mock trial.

Omowale is a Laidlaw Scholar at Säid Business School. You can find Omowale on LinkedIn. The Laidlaw Women's Business Education Scholarship aims to help build a pipeline of future women leaders through access to best-in-class education, resources and global networks by providing full and half scholarships to women who would not otherwise be in a position to reap the benefits of attending an outstanding school. 
 

🔦 Discover more Scholar Spotlights

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⚡️ Xuerui Yin on overcoming societal norms, creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, and working with compassion.

⚡️ Paseka Khosa on overcoming financial hardship and advocating for unwavering belief in oneself.

⚡️ Fisayo Adeleke on her mission to increase women's access to opportunities, and dealing with uncertainty.

⚡️ Helena Couto on breaking out of your pre-defined place in society, and larger than life goals.