Seyi Oluyole is the founder of Dream Nurture Foundation, a global Christian relief developmental organisation committed to bringing life and hope to children in communities covered by poverty and despondency.
The organization offers children educational opportunities while bringing out the best in them and engaging them in diverse range of human activities like sports, drama and dance among others.
The Dream Catchers Dance group is a part of Dream Nurture Foundation that helps poor and street kids. They are empowered through dance and the NGO provides the kids with shelter, food, clothing and education.
The Dream Catchers kids recently went viral after their dance video was shared by Rihanna, Naomi Campbell and Diddy. Naomi Campbell also met them during her visit to Nigeria.
Seyi is a graduate of English and Literary Studies from Covenant University and in her mid-twenties.
Lilian Imoni had an interview with her conducted as part of the HIGH HEELS WITH LILIAN series, a column dedicated to profiling women in business and careers and sharing their inspiring stories, their trials and triumphs. Women who are game changers in their various field of endeavours across different sectors of the economy are featured. If you will like to be featured on this column, please call 07013105041 or contact @lilianimoni on Instagram
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning?
When I wake up in the morning, the first thing that comes to mind are my plans for the day. I try to recollect if any of the kids complained of any pains so I can attend to them immediately. I try to think if it’s a day that I can sleep in or if I have to get out of bed immediately. Basically, I think of my plans for the day.
What has contributed most to your success?
God. He is my constant support system and best friend. When things get tough and I get confused, I just start to talk to Him. Also, My passion. My passion has always been my driving force. When things get tough, I try to remind myself of the reasons why I am working in the first place and it helps. I believe in working hard to get what you want, and this only comes when you are passionate about what you do.
The key to success in three words
Hard-work
Passion
Love
What is the greatest piece of wisdom you have heard?
‘Conformity Is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth’ a quote by John F. Kennedy.
What motivates you to carry on?
My passion and need for change. I went through a lot of tough times growing up and I try to use this as a stepping stone. Also, I have great people around me who keep encouraging me.
If you were to start all over again what would you do differently?
Read more books and be more daring.
What has been your greatest challenge as a woman in business?
Sometimes, opportunities are not readily available because of our kind of society. So I’ve had to figure out a way out of everything.
What keeps you awake at night?
Change. I don’t want to be at the same level forever, I haven’t gotten to where I want to. Hence, I find myself trying to figure out what my next step should be. Asking myself ‘How can I take positive advantage of what I already have?’
What is your biggest fear?
Falling short of my expectations.
A seasoned professional, an adorable mother, a loving wife, a mentor to many. How do you strike a balance?
I’m not a wife at the moment but how I strike a balance in all aspects of my life is to piecemeal – I know I can’t fight every battle so I try to choose battles wisely.
Advice to women in business
Keep pushing, if you believe it, you can achieve it. Just work hard, give it your all and stay prayerful.
How do you relax/unwind?
I watch TV shows alone or I read a book when I find the time.
