Meet The 2025 Speakers

Akinwunmi Braithwaite

Akin Braithwaite is a co-founder of Kasookoo Communications Limited, a Cloud Telecommunications provider driving digital transformation in the telecoms space.
He is a strategic expert with a multidimensional career spanning over 40 years in diverse industries including: Insurance, Academia, Information Technology, Telecommunications, Finance and Agriculture. He has served in transformative roles in companies in the UK such as Minet and Consignia as well as Econet (now Airtel) and MTN operations in Ghana, Syria and Nigeria.

He holds a double major BA degree in English Language and Biblical Studies from Covenant College, Tennessee, USA. He is an alumnus of:
London Business School: Corporate Finance Executive Program
Nottingham University: Insurance and Risk Management
Lagos Business School: Project Management
Wits Business School: Executive Management Development program

He has attended several business C-Suite training in various countries around the world including:- UK, China, India, Malaysia, Syria, Iran, Singapore, Dubai, South Africa and has a cultivated, balanced world view that impacts his various endeavours.
He has a penchant and passion for children’s development and was part of a special committee involved in developing the financial literacy curriculum for the ministry of education in the school curriculum. He taught Sunday School for over 22 years and is an author of 4 Ajapa Childrens’ books in the Nigerian folklore genre.
His work is inspired by his wife and four children.

Amadi Ekwutosilam

Amadi Ekwutosilam Njoku, also known as Mazi Emeritus, is a Nigerian writer, educator, and cultural advocate with more than a decade of experience in literature and education. His work examines identity, tradition, and personal transformation, often through the eyes of children and adolescents.
His debut children’s book, The Invincible Will, earned national and international recognition, including the ANA Prize for Children’s Literature (2022), the Tamikio L. Dooley Award (2023), and the Akachi Ezeigbo Prize for Children’s Literature (2024). He is the author of Against the Wind, the sequel to The Invincible Will and the second book in a planned trilogy that will conclude with Beyond the Finish Line. His other works include Hakeem’s Dream and Other Stories for middle-grade readers, Echoes of Our Voices, a poetry collection for young readers, The Weight of Lies, a crime coming-of-age novel, and 0otu ilu Amasiri, a folktale collection celebrating the oral traditions of his hometown. His educational text, Eraz Literature-in-English, has helped thousands of Nigerian students prepare for national exams.
Amadi’s writing has appeared in The Nation, Kalahari Review, ANA Review, Daily Sun, and in several anthologies highlighting African literary voices. He has served as Managing Editor of Africa Press Chamber and has taught English and Literature in Lagos, preparing over a thousand students for national and international examinations. He has also received fellowships from the Ebedi International Writers Residency (2023) and Imodoye Writers Residency (2024).
Grounded in his cultural heritage, Amadi founded Amasiri Odyssey, a platform dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of his community. He is a member of SCBWI (US), the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), SBMEN, and ELTAN.
Amadi writes with the conviction that stories can mend what the world breaks. His work stands at the meeting point of education, heritage, and the restorative power of words.

Amaka Ohia

Amaka Ohia is a writer, lawyer and a Judex. She is also a Child's Rights Advocate with special interest in literacy. Amaka enjoys writing. She has written several books covering different genres of literature for varying ages. Her passion remains creating didactic and contemporary stories for children and young people.

Ayodeji Anifowose

Ayodeji Anifowose is an author, content creator, certified life and marriage coach/counselor, and Lead Pastor at RCCG Arise Church, Riverside, California. With a background in Economics and a passion for teaching God's word, he is dedicated to raising world changers and promoting the gospel through digital media.
Ayodeji is a prolific and versatile author, with an impressive collection of nearly 40 published works, including 10 delightful children's books that continue to inspire and captivate young minds.
He runs the Great Father, Great Husband YouTube channel, offering practical guidance on faith, family, and leadership. Ayodeji is also a songwriter with eight released tracks, and he has a special calling to mentor boys into godly men. He's also the CEO of AYO LLC, a multimedia company.
He is happily married to Opeyemi, and they are blessed with four daughters.

Bolanle Afolabi

Bolanle Afolabi is a Partner at a Big 4 consulting firm with over 19 years of experience transforming finance functions across organizations. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Lead Facilitator at the KPMG Accounting Institute.
In her role as Partner, Bolanle has recruited and mentored over 150 young professionals, equipping them with the right skills, mindset, and values to thrive. Her leadership is rooted in delivering value, excellence, and resilience—qualities that also shape her parenting philosophy.
Beyond her corporate leadership, Bolanle extends her passion for mentorship into education and community development. Through mentoring initiatives at WIMBIZ and KPMG, she guides aspiring professionals, while also contributing to education and community growth as a Finance Committee Member of the Corona Schools’ Trust Council and an Education Committee Member at Tope Olagbegi’s Circle of Influence (TOCI).
As a mother of two and aunt to nine, Bolanle’s parenting journey is anchored in faith, intentionality, and structure. She is a member of the Intentional Parenting Academy and the author of Little Manners, Big Impact, a practical guide designed to help parents raise well-mannered, value-rooted children in today’s complex world.
Bolanle’s work reflects a powerful intersection of professional impact and personal purpose. As a speaker, she brings practical insights and faith-rooted wisdom to help parents nurture future leaders and create a meaningful impact.

Bukola Akinsanya

Oluwabukunola Akinsanya is a graduate of Mass Communication from Pan-Atlantic University. She enjoys writing novels, poems, and short stories, and is an avid reader who loves watching crime and law shows. Her favorite author is Jane Austen, and she hopes to study Child Psychology in the future.
Oluwabukunola has a passion for various forms of art, including painting, drawing, and tie-dye. Her hobbies include listening to music, meditating, planting, and writing quotations.

Chinenyenwa Anih-Ibekaku

CHINENYENWA ANIH-IBEKAKU is a passionate educator, accomplished author, and dedicated literacy advocate with over a decade of experience teaching, mentoring, and inspiring learners across all levels of basic education. With a deep-rooted commitment to promoting literacy and lifelong learning, she has become a trusted voice in Nigeria's educational landscape.
She is the author of THE TALKING MUSHROOM AND OTHER STORIES, a compelling collection that celebrates African oral traditions, instils moral values, and sparks the imagination of young readers. In recognition of her commitment to storytelling and cultural preservation, she was named the Winner of AFIATV'S "MY ENUGU STORY" in 2023, an accolade that highlights her talent for weaving local narratives with universal themes.
Chinenyenwa is the visionary founder of SMART START VILLE ACADEMY, a literacy-centered education brand dedicated to equipping students, parents, and teachers with the tools and strategies they need to thrive. Through customised coaching programs, interactive workshops, and resource development, she helps families and educators ignite a love of reading and build strong foundational skills.
Her impact extends further through SMART TEACHERS CONNECT, a vibrant and growing community she leads for passionate and forward-thinking educators. She also runs the SMART TEACHER ACADEMY, an innovative training platform that empowers teachers with practical skills, creative methodologies, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Chinenyenwa's work is deeply inspired by her belief in the transformative power of education. She combines storytelling, cultural pride, and learner-centred pedagogy to create enriching experiences that resonate beyond the classroom. Whether she is writing, teaching, or training, her mission remains clear: to turn learning into a joyful, empowering journey for all.

Dr. Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida

Dr. Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida is an award winning Finance and Management Consultant, an author, global speaker, Inspirational Leader and transformational coach whose passion is in life improvement, leadership development and financial advancement.
  She holds a PhD in Personnel Psychology from the University of Ibadan and she is concerned with children enlightenment, youth development and women empowerment.
  Dr. Lola has impacted over 10,000 children, youths and women since the inception of her profession. She is a mentor and coach on several prestigious platforms locally and internationally and has won several awards, presented on radio and TV on the topic of national development.
Dr. Lola is the author of six books: I've seen God, My Pot of Gold,: unlocking your personal treasury, Broken, Bisola visits her Grandma (Book 1), Bisola and the colorful jars (Book 2) and From Shares to wealth: a complete guide to investing in shares.
  She is happily married and blessed with lovely children.  

Ekanem Ogegere Selia

Mrs Ekanem Ogegere Selia is an Administrator and an HR Expert / Professional with experience of over twenty years in the Public Service, she holds an MSc in Environmental Planning & Protection, and Bsc in Geography & Planning, a lover of nature.
A wife and Mother of three beautiful children, an Author of four published children story books. A Fellow of the Intergrated Institute of Public Management (IIPM). A member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), also Member of the Association of Children's Authors and Illustrators of Nigeria, (ACAIN) Associate Member of National Institute of Management (NIM) and The Member and Children's sector coordinator of the Co- Authors Group, Abuja. A trained Resource Facilitator, Coach, Teacher and Creative instructor on several handcrafted.
Aunty Selly as she is fondly called by her numerous children audience, is a conveyer of the African Bedtime Stories, a Collection of fascinating stories and Creative Writing classes under the Mumsfolktales YouTube channel.
Her passion is to empower, enlighten and enhance the evolving generation with skills for a wholesome lifestyle.

Elizabeth Okeyele

Emonena Abenabe

Emonena Abenabe Akwara is a passionate health educator, author, and stroke/health advocate dedicated to promoting health awareness and inclusive communities. As a stroke survivor, she transformed her personal experience into a mission to educate and empower others. She is the founder of My Ability In Disability (MAID) Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports stroke survivors and individuals with disabilities through education, advocacy, and community programs.
She is also the creator of Use Strokie, an initiative that uses storytelling and animation to teach children about stroke and other health topics in fun, relatable ways. Her children’s book, Hey, I Spotted a Stroke and her YouTube channel for kids called "Use Strokie Kids", introduces young minds to healthy living. Beyond education, Use Strokie brings practical care solutions for stroke survivors, bridging the gap between awareness and recovery.
Through her work, Emonena continues to champion health literacy and disability inclusion on local and global platforms.

Eniola Olajobi

Shakirah Eniola Olajobi, the Founding President of the Association of Nigerian Educational Psychologists (ANEP) has been working as a practicing Psychologist and parenting coach for over a decade.
As the Team Lead for The Neurobide and CEO of Brainy Educare, she specializes in cognitive profiling, emotional health education and brain training for optimal performance in both children and adults.
Mrs Eniola is a certified Assessment expert with a Certificate in Educational Testing duly accredited by the British Psychological Society and the Federation of European Psychologists.
As an accredited management consultant, she also has a certification in Entrepreneurship Management from Lagos Business School of the Pan Atlantic University, and a School Leadership and Management Certification from Harvard Business School and Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Shakirah is the Director, The Outliers School Surulere and she currently also serves as a consultant at the Universal Basic Education Commission, Abuja, as well as a learning facilitator at the University of Lagos Consult. She has been at the forefront of staging unique programs targeted at motivating people for lifelong learning. She has given several keynote presentations and lectures as well as hands on workshops on emotional health, emotional wellness, emotional hygiene and emotional first aid.
During the pandemic, she published a series of emotional wellness kits for children and adults, the first of its kind that have sold thousands of copies across 9 countries.

Eshema Momoh

Ms. Eshema Momoh is a renowned education leader, author, and advocate for educational transformation. With over 20 years of inclusive experience in operations management, management development, school administration, curriculum design, and teacher training, she is deeply passionate about nurturing the next generation. As the author of the children’s book “A New School Experience,” she demonstrates her commitment to supporting and inspiring young learners.
She holds an MSc in Operations Management from the University of Birmingham, UK, a BSc in Polymer Science & Technology from Manchester Metropolitan University, and a Professional Diploma in Education from Corona College of Education, Lagos.
Currently serving as Head Teacher at Crown Gate School, Lagos, and as an educational consultant, Ms. Momoh drives academic excellence, promotes diversified learning, and fosters teacher growth. Beyond the classroom, she is a dedicated youth mentor, conference facilitator, and advocate for educational innovation.
Her unwavering passion for children and youth development continues to make her a beacon of inspiration to educators, parents, and learners alike.

Foluke Oyeleye

Foluke Oyeleye is the author of the 'I Am A Nigerian In...' book collection for children. From a young age, she longed to read books about Nigerians doing awesome stuff. So, while at Harvard getting her MBA, she decided to start writing those stories herself. She currently has three books: I Am A Nigerian In Music, I Am A Nigerian In Literary Arts, and I Am A Nigerian In STEM. She will publish two more books in the coming months.
Foluke Oyeleye is a creative, encourager, business and bridge-builder with a passion for serving others. Through collections published by Tani Series, she shares representative stories of Nigerian success and excellence to inspire children and inquisitive adults. Her desire is to encourage children to dream and build big while reflecting on their history so that, together, we can keep our culture, excellence, and light alive for generations to come.

Ifeoluwa Aduradola

Ifeoluwa Aduradola is a literacy advocate and children's books author from Ogun State, Nigeria. She is the founder of Onkawe Book Club (for adults), Onkawe Junior Book Club (age 5-12) and Onkawe Education Foundation. She has a B.A in English and an M.A in Literature from the prestigious Redeemer's University in Ede, Osun State, Nigeria. She also holds a Professional Diploma in Early Childhood Care, Development and Education from Corona College of Education, Lagos State, Nigeria. She is currently studying to become a Child Psychologist.
Through her foundation, she has facilitated trainings for early years teachers in low income schools as well as orientation programs for parents in rural communities. Ifeoluwa loves children and is passionate about ensuring that every child, regardless of their family financial background, has access to quality education and literacy.
She is an advocate of better parenting and wholesome family life. She and her husband host the Parenting is an Action Word Podcast where they share they parenting experiences and insights to having a wholesome family life. She is the author of Parenting is an Action Word and the award-winning BamBam's Surprise, Tami's Song, God Wants You to be Like Him amongst others. She is also COO of Studio 5:13, a creative studio birthed in 2022.

Iyobosa Sorae

Iyobosa Sorae is a former banker turned entrepreneur and social impact advocate with over 16 years of strategic business and finance leadership experience. Her professional journey, which includes roles in corporate finance and global treasury markets, gave her deep insights into how financial decisions create ripple effects across communities. She previously served as Head of the Global Wealth and Treasury department at Coronation Merchant Bank.
Currently, Iyobosa is the Managing Partner at Opes Venit, a family office operating at the intersection of impact investing, philanthropy, and sustainable business development. She co-founded Pershing Hills and the Esorae Foundation, which empowers communities through programs in education, entrepreneurial skills development, and financial literacy.
A passionate advocate for financial literacy, Iyobosa is the author of Cracking the Money Code, a financial literacy book for children and teens. She champions the integration of financial literacy into primary school curricula. Her life's work is rooted in transformational impact for the next generation, driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to practical business skills alongside traditional education.
She holds an MSc in Finance from IE Business School, Madrid, and an MBA from Imperial College Business School.

Joseph Osereme Oboh

Bio:Joevin is a dynamic Dance Artist, Fitness Coach, and Fashion Model with over 10 years of experience. Known for his vibrant Afrobeat Fitness sessions, he's worked with brands like Nestlé Milo, African Reinsurance Corporation, and Access Bank Fitness Marathon, A Member of Corporate Dance World (CDW), Nigerian Dance House (NDH).

Kanyinsola Balogun

Kanyinsola Balogun-Kuku is a Nigerian visual artist celebrated for her bold and distinctive approach to abstract painting. Her artistic journey began in childhood, and over the years, her works have been showcased in galleries and showrooms, earning recognition for their expressive depth and grandeur.
She holds a B.A. in English Literature and began her career in broadcasting, working in both television and radio. To further expand her expertise, she earned an M.A. in Global Media and Communication from the University of Leicester, strengthening her background in storytelling and communication.
In addition to her visual artistry, Kanyinsola is a writer and the author of the childrens book The Boy Who Grew Backwards. She has also contributed as a moderator and panelist at several events, where she shares her insights on creativity, media, and social impact.
Deeply committed to youth empowerment, she serves as the Head of Operations for TEDxOluyole, a non-profit initiative dedicated to inspiring and motivating young people across Nigeria. Alongside her creative and philanthropic work, she also pursues a career in the banking industry.
Kanyinsola is happily married and a proud mother of two, successfully balancing her professional and personal life. In her leisure time, she enjoys painting, writing, singing, and traveling.

Keke Hammond

Keke Hammond is a powerhouse in the African entertainment industry, serving as the CEO of Road14 Studios, a full-service creative, media and talent agency dedicated to amplifying the representation of the African child. She is also the Chief Operating Officer of Flytime Promotions, the force behind Flytime Fest and Rhythm Unplugged, West Africa’s longest-running music festival. With over 22 years of experience, both on stage and behind the scenes, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s landscape.
A Howard University graduate, Hammond majored in Marketing with a minor in Performing Arts. She began her career as an on-air personality at Silverbird before launching her own productions, including the critically acclaimed Nigerian staging of “For Colored Girls”, which featured Tiwa Savage, Joke Silva, Omawumi, Weruche Opia, and other leading African artists—pioneering the crossover of mainstream musicians into theater.
A passionate advocate for women and youth in entertainment, Hammond has cultivated inclusive work environments and industry opportunities for emerging talent. She has been featured by renowned media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and Culture Custodian, highlighting her achievements and industry influence.
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, she is a wife and mother of three. She enjoys mentoring young creatives, attending theater and fashion shows, traveling, engaging in spoken word, and listening to worship music.

KR Onimole

K.R. Onimole is a self-taught illustrator and animator with a background in Architecture. He also worked as an Art Director in Advertising. Some of the advertising campaigns have won both local and international awards. While he was in University, KRO started a comic strip for Emporium, the information/news board for Architecture students, titled "Crasher".The Crasher comic strips were essentially exaggerated accounts of life as an Architecture student. After school the strips continued both online and in local Magazines. Some of which have been collected into a series of books. KRO is currently a freelance/remote illustrator helping to tell stories in Picture books and Television. 

Lola Shoneyin

Lola Shoneyin is a Nigerian writer, publisher, bookseller, festival curator, and cultural activist whose work continues to shape the African literary landscape. She is the author of the award-winning novel The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, which has garnered international acclaim and been adapted for both stage and screen. In addition to her adult fiction and three collections of poetry, Shoneyin has made remarkable contributions to children’s literature, authoring a growing number of titles that reflect her commitment to storytelling, cultural education, and youth empowerment.
Her children’s books include Iyaji the House Girl, Pwada Can Do Anything, Do As You Are Told Baji, A Durbar Festival for Hassan and Hussaina, Setto Saves the Trees, Jamila’s Clever Plan, and Anyibo and the Mother Hen. These works form part of her Northern Lights series, created to provide representation for children in northern Nigeria. In 2024, she received the Children’s Book of the Year Award, affirming her impact in the realm of children’s literature.
Shoneyin is the founder of the Book Buzz Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to promoting reading culture and intellectual engagement across the continent. Through the Foundation, she launched and continues to curate two major literary events: Ake Arts & Book Festival and Kaduna Book & Arts Festival, both of which serve as platforms for African voices. After co-curating festivals in Berlin and Amsterdam, in 2025, she co-curated the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL), cementing her role as a global literary ambassador.
In 2016, she founded Ouida Books, a Lagos-based publishing house committed to amplifying contemporary African writers. Under her leadership, Ouida has grown into a hub for literary innovation and cultural expression. Her most recent children’s book, Tunde Onakoya, the Chess Champion, celebrates the inspiring story of a young Nigerian who transformed his life through chess.
In 2021, she produced a documentary called Flowers for Warriors, which highlights the complex journeys of parents of children with special needs in Nigeria. She is the current chairperson of the board of University of Lagos Bookshop and Press. Lola Shoneyin currently coordinates Lagos Festember, a city-wide cultural celebration set for launch in September 2025. She is also the Director of Bookstorm, a visionary project aimed at training writers and illustrators, with the goal of producing a hundred children’s books by the end of 2027.
In recognition of her numerous contributions to literature and culture, Shoneyin received the Aficionado Award in 2023 and was named among the Financial Times’ most influential women of the year. She lives in Lagos, Nigeria, where she continues to write, publish, and champion African creativity.

Mariam Longe

Mariam Longe is an award-winning television presenter, children’s book author, and passionate environmental advocate. She co-hosts Your View, Nigeria’s leading breakfast show on TVC, where she engages audiences in thought-provoking discussions on social, political, and economic issues. Her excellence in broadcasting earned her the Television Personality of the Year award at the 2021 ELOY Awards.
Alongside her media career, Mariam champions environmental conservation. She has served as ambassador for Conservation Without Borders’ “Flight of the Vultures” campaign and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation’s “Save the Vultures and Wildlife” initiative. Her children’s book, Vultures to the Rescue: The Clean-Up Crew, has received widespread acclaim for educating young readers about the vital role vultures play in preserving ecological balance.

Mazzi Odu

Mazzi Odu is a writer, editor and creative consultant based in Lagos Nigeria. Of Ugandan descent, she writes extensively on jewellery and design and has an online platform and podcast, Magnus Oculus where she amplifies the works of creatives at the vanguard of their fields, with a special focus on those from the Global South and its diaspora. Her work has also appeared in some of the world's leading publications, and she has lent her voice to a number of international conferences and symposia. Her first children's book Get Rid of Your Phone Mummy is a contemporary tale of digital over-dependence told from the lens of a child, and she previously published a modern take on a mediaeval devotional entitled Heaven in Your Handbag. Odu believes stories are the way we best make sense of the world we are in today and craft a better one for tomorrow

Mike Ewewie

Mike Ighodalo Ewewie is a trained administrator with over three decades experience. During his career in paid employment, he held a number of administrative positions including serving on the board of a microfinance bank. Mike started off as a full-time businessman after working as the Personal Secretary to the Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide and the Chancellor of Covenant University for over one and a half decades.
Mike currently manages the affairs of a group of companies which he co-founded from scratch with his dear wife. Their businesses operate across manufacturing, marketing/distribution, agriculture and transportation sectors of the economy.
The oldest of their companies, CEDAR D' VINE NIG. LTD, the producer of CEDAA YOGHURT and Zoi Dairy Fresh Yoghurt, which started off in the kitchen of their home, today engages over 150 staff in direct employment and over 2,000 persons in indirect employment.
Their product, Cedaa Yoghurt and Zoi Dairy Fresh Yoghurt sells in most of the modern stores and supermarkets across the country. The vision of their company is to become a household name in Nigeria and beyond in the production and distribution of quality dairy and beverage products. Mike is a member of ICSA – London and an alumni member of the Lagos Business School.

Moyosoreoluwa Aladesuyi

Moyosoreoluwa Deborah Aladesuy is a writer, podcaster (Not So Random with Mo), editor, and a lover of children. Moyosore is a young lady, called to empower people, particularly ladies and children to: discover their God-given identity, walk in the fullness of God's purpose for their life, and to maintain relationships that are founded on the principles of the Scriptures.
She is a co-founder of "Lady of Substance"; an e-community of young ladies set to raise intentional ladies who are sold out; ablaze for God and balanced in every facet of life. She is passionate about seeing people grow in the truth that is God's word by teaching, writing, and counselling. She's the author of "The A To Z of You", a devotional for children.
Moyo personally believes that "if we all understood our identity in Christ, the world would be a better place."

Nathaniel Nosa

Nathaniel Nosa known as MC Narth on stage is a dynamic and engaging Master of Ceremonies with years of experience bringing life, laughter, and unforgettable energy to every event. From corporate gatherings and product launches to weddings, birthdays, house warmings, and grand openings, Nathaniel’s signature style keeps audiences entertained, engaged, and connected from start to finish.
Known for his warm personality, quick wit, and ability to read the room, Nathaniel ensures every moment flows seamlessly while creating memories that last long after the event is over. Whether you want elegance, excitement, or a touch of humor, Nathaniel delivers the perfect balance to make your occasion truly special.

Noma Sodipo

Noma Sodipo is a children's writer and media creator with a passion for early childhood. A former nursery owner and trained optometrist, her award-winning TV show Story-time With Auntie Noma and her books, including her newly-released, A Preschool Alphabet Book & A Treasury of African Names, which earned her a letter of appreciation from Queen Elizabeth II, Nigeria Hotchpotch, and The Two Nonagenarian Sisters, are a testament to her love for all things African and good. She is a WIPO Pioneer Labs Award recipient and active in global literacy networks.

Obianuju Onuorah

Mrs Obianuju Onuorah is s distinguished librarian, holds a Bachelor degree in  Libray Science BLS (Abia State University) and MLS (University of Nigeria, Nsukka). She began her career in early 2003 at the National Library of Nigeria, then rose through the ranks as a Deputy Director and Head of Branch, Lagos State Branch, she has engaged and encouraged reading especially among children.
She has partnered with NGOs and other corporate entities to bring library services to the underserved communities. Under her watch, the National Library of Nigeria in partnership with ZODML established an eco-friendly library (The Green Library) for children aged 4-17 which aims to promote environmental literacy and sustainable practices among young minds. 

Ogbu Eme

Ogbu Eme is an award-winning children’s writer. He is the author of two socially conscious children’s books titled Not Too Young to Run and The Water School. In September 2019, he won the African Writers Award for Children’s Literature, and then the Wakini Kuria Prize in November 2022.
Ogbu has a Bachelor of Arts in mass communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He is an English teacher and an advocate for accessible reading.

Olajumoke Oluade

Jumoke Oluade is a Brand Strategist and Writer who has a master’s degree in Public and Internatonal Afairs (MPIA) from the University of Lagos. The major part of her work as a writer has been in the ghostwritng space, where she has writen and edited about 18 manuscripts. Jumoke briefy worked as the Managing Editor of a legal magazine, a developmental editor with Okada Books, a creatve writer with Africa Radio Drama Associaton (ARDA- dci), and an independent writer with some organizatons. She currently manages Astris Consult; a brand consultng frm.

Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi

Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi is an author; publisher; and corporate director. She is the convener of the award-winning Akada Children's Book Festival, as well as a Trustee of the Association of Children's Authors & Illustrators of Nigeria (ACAIN); Punch Media Foundation (PMF); and Women In Management Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ).
She is passionate about creating visually-engaging, culturally-relevant content for children, and has a desire to see steadily increasing literacy rates within her community.
Olubunmi has written a number of articles in the areas of commerce, agriculture, resource maximization, sanitation and land use in Nigeria. Her work has been published in several national daily newspapers.
Olubunmi's passion for writing developed into collaborating with talented artists to create beautifully-illustrated children's picture books designed to make reading attractive, inspire innovation and excite children, parents and teachers. 
Her published works include: Tobi Visits the Conservatory; Kob the Antelope; Diary of a Toddler; Tobi Bakes A Cake; Tobi Learns To Swim; Tobi And The Kid's Marathon; Tobi At The Art Gallery; On The Water; Mummy, Can I ... ? and the UN Africa SDG Book Club honorary pick: Why Do You Wash Your Hands?  Olubunmi, has a BSc in Economics from City University London. Olubunmi also has an honorary doctorate in Media & Communication and has completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School as well as the Advanced Management & Leadership Program at Oxford University Said Business School.

Solape Azazi

Solape Azazi is an inspiring leader and advocate in the world of autism and special needs support. As a WHO CST Master Trainer, International Behavior Analyst, Qualified Autism Services Practitioners Supervisor (QABA certified), and IBCCES Certi?ed Autism Specialist, she has dedicated her career to empowering families and caregivers with the tools they need to improve the lives of individuals with autism.
Solape is the driving force behind Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiatives, a non-pro?t organization she founded to raise awareness, advocate for inclusion, and provide essential resources to families navigating autism. Through her work, she’s helped countless caregivers overcome challenges, and support, and foster a higher quality of life for their loved ones.
A passionate storyteller, Solape is the author of the children books My Friend Has Autism and The Magical Market of Maraba. She is also a producer of the groundbreaking documentary Echoes of Hope: Navigating Autism in Nigeria, both of which shine a light on the experiences of individuals with autism and their families.
In addition to her advocacy work, Solape brings extensive experience in HR generalist a?airs, with a strong background in employee relations, sta? management, and project leadership.
As a wife and mother of two boys, one of whom was diagnosed with ASD at age three, Solape’s journey is deeply personal. She understands firsthand the challenges that come with raising a child on the autism spectrum, and her mission is to ensure that every family receives the support, understanding, and opportunities they deserve.
Quick short into: Solape Azazi, a passionate autism advocate, International Behavior Analyst (IBA), and the Executive Director of Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative. She is also an author, documentary producer, and parent navigator supporting families of autistic individuals. Solape has dedicated her work to raising awareness, improving access to autism services, and influencing policies that promote inclusion in Nigeria.

Stephanie Odili

Stephanie Chizoba Odili is a UK-born Nigerian writer. She obtained her first degree in Mass Communication, majoring in broadcast journalism at Covenant University, Nigeria; a PGCE (Post Graduate in Education) from the University of Essex, and an MA in Contemporary Creative Writing from Northeastern University, London.
She is the author of multiple books including Deafening Silence, which came 2nd place at the 2019 Association of Nigerian Authors Prize For Fiction. Stephanie's debut children's story Tea Time With Tito also won second place at the 2021 Wakini Kuria Award for Children's Literature. Her short story Ijeoma was featured in Adda's 2023 Remember to Rest collection. Saint Sisters Mystery Club is her first children's book and the first in its series.
When not writing or teaching English, she's watching crime documentaries, listening to a Christian sermon, or reading a good book.

Yinka Awobo-Pearse

Yinka Awobo-Pearse is highly committed to creating equal access to quality education for all children. In 2005, she founded Woodentots Nursery School in Ikoyi, Lagos, and still runs the school to date. Her desire for quality education led her into Teacher Training and Education Consulting in 2012 as a way to contribute to the upskilling of teachers in the education sector in Nigeria as a path to quality education for all. She has trained over 1200 teachers through Woodentots Consult Limited (WCL) and another 2200 in collaboration with others.
She has created Teacher Training Modules, Work Schemes and Lesson Plans for Nursery and Primary schools and Learning to Read Resources for Nursery 1 and 2. These Teaching and Learning Resources are available on the WCL website and Social Media handles.
Prior to a career in education, she worked in Project Management for 12 years as a Cost and Schedule Engineer. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering, a Montessori Diploma in Early Childhood Education, a master’s degree in Education and is an Alumni of the prestigious Said Business School, University of Oxford, UK.
She also gives back by sharing her knowledge via her YouTube Channel; Early Learning with Ms Yinka, to empower parents, teachers and children. She is married with 2 young adults.