I first met Yinka Olaito while completing my undergraduate degree. We both attended Redeemed Christian Church in Lagos, Nigeria. Despite facing a visible physical challenge, Yinka never allowed it to hinder him. His unwavering faith in God was evident, and what continues to inspire me about him is his “can-do” spirit, even while living in an environment that wasn’t exactly favorable for business or entrepreneurship. Yinka didn’t have the opportunity to work for a company, but instead of complaining, he leaned into his entrepreneurial mindset. He wrote and published books, founded several initiatives—some failed, but many are thriving today. His motto, “You never know what works until you try,” is what drives him daily.
Today, Yinka is the Executive Director of the Africa Foundation for Young Media Professionals, a pan-African organization dedicated to transforming the African media landscape by equipping early-career journalists and broadcasters with the skills they need. The foundation has received international funding and is making an impact across the continent.
Yinka also leads the Centre for Disability and Inclusion Africa, tirelessly advocating for the rights and potential of people with disabilities across the continent.
An accomplished author of three books, Yinka also hosts the “Difficult Conversations Africa” podcast and the “Inclusion Matters” broadcast. He holds a Master’s degree in Communication, Media, and Public Relations from the University of Leicester, UK, and has accumulated numerous certificates in Public Policy, Inclusion, Global Diplomacy, and Strategic Management. His work has taken him to conferences and events in countries such as Kenya, South Africa, the USA, and Qatar.
Yinka’s journey is a powerful reminder that with faith in God, you can succeed and thrive no matter your circumstances. Look around you—what problems do you see? Think about how you can solve them and create value. Stay resilient, be creative, and find ways to be compensated for the solutions you offer. Never give up.
