I will always advocate youth development, women rights, cultural preservation —Dr. Bolaji Akinmulero

Dr. Bolaji Akinmulero, a recipient of the UN Outstanding Humanitarian Award, is a specialist in healthcare facility management; regulatory compliance, financial planning, staff development and resident well-being; she is the CEO of four thriving care facilities in California with business portfolio in real estate, agriculture, transportation and logistics across Nigeria, UK and US. In this interview with ADEOLA OJO, she speaks on working for humanity, passion for service, roots and empowerment for underserved communities.

You are passionate about empowerment, what drives this feeling?

For me, empowering others is a way of life. People that work with me and those that we have crossed paths in one way or another can all testify to the fact that whether I am leading a care team, speaking before world leaders or mentoring young women in business, I carry the same message and that is, we rise by lifting others. Service is my calling and my work has consistently promoted compassionate care, dignity and strong community relationships. My business portfolio includes interests in real estate, agriculture, transportation and logistics and these have enabled me to build bridges across international markets and empower numerous women in business. I will always be a strong advocate of youth development, women’s rights and cultural preservation.

 

What did your recent UN Outstanding Humanitarian Award mean to you?

Thank you. It was a deeply humbling and emotional moment. Standing in the United Nations Headquarters in New York, surrounded by people from all over the world, I felt a powerful mix of gratitude and responsibility. It reminded me that service transcends borders. This award is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who believes in compassion, dignity, and uplifting the vulnerable. The honour recognises decades of humanitarian service, global advocacy and unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment across continents which has been a core of my service. This honour holds a special place in my heart; this award is not a destination but a call to deeper service. I sincerely appreciate the recognition it represents and the opportunity it brings to continue making a difference.

 

Why did you dedicate the award to your late daughter, Oluwafunmilayo Aderonke Akinmulero?

Aderonke was a bright light in my life. Losing her was a pain I cannot fully express, but her memory fuels my mission. I wanted to honour her by continuing to serve and love as she did. Dedicating this award to her felt right; it was a way to keep her legacy alive and meaningful. Her name now carries a deeper message of hope and purpose. And I pray that her soul continues to rest in peace.

 

You are an advocate of cultural preservation, how has your roots influenced your mission?

Well, I have a background that is grounded and I can’t forget my roots or heritage as they influenced me a great deal.  I was born into the revered Oyebobola family of Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. I hold the traditional title of Yeye-Oba of HRM Dr. Babatunde Michael Ayeyowa, the Lumure of Ayeka Kingdom, Okitipupa Local Government and my brother, Chief Olawande Oyebobola, is the Akinle of Ayeka Kingdom. I have strong support from my family and this helps a lot.

Being selected as the Yeye-Oba of Ayeka Kingdom—a title that will be formally bestowed in May is a deep honour. It connects me to my heritage and reminds me of the strength in community and legacy. My upbringing in the Oyebobola family taught me the value of service and leadership. That title isn’t just ceremonial; it’s a call to represent my people and values well wherever I go.

 

How did your team respond to the international recognition?

Oh, the love has been overwhelming. My team at Divine Residential and Mercy Homes was all very happy. One of our nurse managers, Maria Gonzalez, said, “We’ve always known your heart, Chief. Now the world does too.” That touched me. They are my backbone, without their dedication, I wouldn’t be able to do half of what I do.

 

What is your new empowerment project about?

I’m launching a foundation focused on education, healthcare access and women empowerment in underserved communities in honour of my daughter; I want to expand my empowerment programme for women and launch a memorial foundation focused on uplifting underserved communities. We are also expanding our care programmes in California and looking into training centres for care workers. I’ve also received interest from global organisations for possible partnerships. The journey continues. Aderonke’s light will shine on and through this mission, she lives.

 

You manage multiple care homes across California, what has been your guiding principle in building those institutions?

It is compassion. Above all, I believe in treating every resident with the same dignity I would want for my own family. From regulatory compliance to personal wellness, every detail matters. We’ve built homes, not just facilities. And we strive to create a sense of belonging for our clients, their families, and our staff.

 

How do you balance all the international businesses you run across sectors?

It is not rocket science; faith, planning, and great teams. I have learnt to delegate, empower and trust others. Whether it is agriculture in Nigeria or logistics in the U.S, I try to surround myself with people who are driven and principled. It is not easy but I see all these ventures as interconnected ways to create jobs, build dignity and empower, especially women and youths.

 

How do you stay grounded amidst so much responsibility and recognition?

My faith in God keeps me grounded. I also stay connected to my roots; my culture, my family, and my purpose. When I walk through the care homes and see residents smiling, or when a staff member grows into a leadership role, that’s the reward. That’s what really matters.

 

What drives that work ethic?

I think it’s just who I am. I believe in leading by example. If I’m asking my staff to care deeply and show up for others, I must do the same. I’m passionate about excellence and I see every client, every patient, as someone’s parent, child, or sibling. They deserve nothing less than our best.

 

How does it feel to be celebrated at home as well as abroad?

It’s truly fulfilling. Knowing that I will soon receive another chieftaincy title feels like saying, “We see you too.” That recognition means the world to me. I’ve always tried to be a bridge between tradition and global leadership, and this moment brings both together beautifully.

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