Meet The Host
Folajogun Akinlami
Who Am I?
Folajogun Akinlami is a distinguished leader, advocate, and entrepreneur, celebrated for her unwavering commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and social change. Born and raised in Nigeria, Folajogun’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Living with a physical disability has not deterred her; instead, it has fueled her passion for creating a world where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, is celebrated and embraced.
In 2018, Folajogun founded the Differently Abled Foundation, an NGO dedicated to promoting love, inclusion, and social connection for people of all abilities. As CEO, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at breaking down societal barriers and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth for individuals with disabilities. Her leadership in this role has been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive society in Nigeria and beyond.
Folajogun’s commitment to empowerment and inclusion earned her a prestigious spot as a Mandela Washington Fellow in the United States. During her fellowship, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy skills, which led to her election as the Vice President of the Fellowship upon her return to Nigeria in 2019. In this role, she coordinated various initiatives, managed stakeholder relationships, and continued to champion the cause of inclusivity.
Her academic achievements are equally impressive. Folajogun holds a Master’s Degree in Youth Work and Leadership Practice (JNC), which has equipped her with valuable skills in leadership, mentorship, and community engagement. These skills have been pivotal in her efforts to empower young people and foster inclusive environments.
Folajogun’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to social impact have been recognized globally. In 2023, she was honored with Nottingham Trent University’s School of Social Sciences Most Enterprising Achievement Award, acknowledging her innovative approach to social entrepreneurship. Her contributions were further recognized in 2024 when she received the Gethro Sparks Global Recognition Award, underscoring her global impact and leadership capabilities.
Folajogun’s remarkable journey, marked by significant achievements and recognitions, is a powerful testament to her resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to making a difference. Her story continues to inspire many, proving that with determination and passion, it is possible to overcome challenges and create a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
Folajogun Akinlami was born in 1983 in Ondo Town. She attended Saint Helen’s Primary School in Ondo Town and later moved to Akure, Ondo State, where she completed her primary education at Alagbaka Nursery and Primary School. In 1993, she gained admission to the prestigious Saint Louis Girls Grammar School in Akure, Ondo State. In 2001, she furthered her education at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, where she obtained a degree in English Language.
In 2007, she served her compulsory one-year national service in Kogi State, Nigeria. Initially, she worked at the Nigerian Television Authority for a few months before transitioning to Grace 95.5FM in Lokoja, Nigeria. Subsequently, she secured employment as a freelance staff at the Ondo State Radiovision Corporation between 2008 and 2012. In February 2012, she attained permanent employment with the state-owned TV and radio station, OSRC.
Folajogun Akinlami has since produced and presented numerous TV and radio shows, including:
- XTACY TV (Presenter)
- Showbiz Arena TV (Presenter/Producer)
- Doyen TV (Presenter/Producer)
- The Ultimate Show (Radio)
- The Game Show (Radio)
- Greet With a Disc (Radio)
- Inside Out with Fola (TV) Talkshow
- Perspectives (TV) Talkshow
- Lunch Groove TV (Presenter)
- Beyond Challenges (TV) Presenter/Producer
- Lunch Groove TV (Producer)
- Techies Club TV (Producer)
In 2014, she released an album titled “Ariwo Oja,” and in 2015, she co-produced the movie “Ariwo Oja,” where the single “Ariwo Oja” served as the soundtrack. In 2016, she co-produced the movie “Mirage: Iruju” with her sister Motilola Adekunle. Currently, she is working on her novel titled “Memoirs of Vicky Banks.”
Throughout her career, Folajogun Akinlami has received numerous awards, including:
- Rhealyz Naija “Positive Use of the Media Awards” (2012)
- The Challenge Initiative “Personality of the Year Award” (2013)
- City People “Upcoming Artiste of the Year Award” (2014)
- House Of Talents “Young Personality of the Year Award” (2015)
- OSRC “Entertainment Presenter of the Year Award” (2016), among others.
She is the CEO of Differently Abled Foundation, which caters to the needs of persons living with disabilities in Ondo State and its environs. Her program “Beyond Challenges” aims to cultivate a champion’s mentality in Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs). It showcases the achievements of PWDs in various career paths, advocates for their inclusion, and promotes awareness about proper treatment of PWDs.
Currently, she is working on policies to declassify deafness as a major form of disability in Ondo State and Nigeria through inclusion. She is a Mandela Washington Fellow 2019 and will soon receive a Leadership in Public Management certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, courtesy of the United States Government.
