Yewande Akinse: Trailblazer in poetry, entrepreneurship, advocacy

Yewande Akinse (Adebowale), a distinguished figure in the realms of poetry, entrepreneurship, and advocacy, continues to make waves both locally and internationally with her innovative approaches and unwavering commitment to effecting positive change. Born on September 25, 1992, in Lagos, Nigeria, Yewande’s journey from a young poet to a celebrated entrepreneur and advocate has been marked by resilience, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose.

Yewande Akinse’s formative years were shaped by a rich tapestry of education and cultural diversity. Having attended St. Mary’s Private School in Ajele, Lagos, and later Holy Child College in South-West Ikoyi, Lagos, she laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors in poetry and storytelling.

She is the daughter of Taiwo Olayinka Adebowale and Theresa Ogoghome Ideh, Yewande’s career trajectory includes roles as a Legal Officer at Japaul Gold and Ventures Plc and as a Legal Consultant at Japan Tobacco International (West Africa) before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey.

Yewande Akinse’s pioneering spirit shines through her co-founding of Salubata, a company at the forefront of sustainable fashion. Salubata’s proprietary modular shoes, crafted from recycled plastic waste, have not only revolutionized the footwear industry but also contributed significantly to environmental conservation efforts.

Yewande’s exceptional talent and dedication have garnered her prestigious accolades, including the Fidelity Bank Prize for Creative Writing in 2013, The Guardian Newspaper (TGN) Prize for Poetry in 2019, and the Project Knucklehead Prize for Creative Rebellion in 2020. Her commitment to storytelling and advocacy has been recognized by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who commended her during the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) for her achievements in the Commonwealth Youth competition and her victory at the African Youth Adaptation Solutions Challenge.

With a portfolio of over 110 published poems and a strong presence in renowned literary publications, Yewande’s writing style captivates audiences with its depth and authenticity. Her works delve into a wide range of themes, from politics and mental health to climate change and social justice, reflecting her unwavering commitment to using poetry as a tool for introspection and social commentary.

Yewande’s global footprint extends beyond her literary endeavours, as evidenced by her participation in high-profile events such as the Kigali Startup Festival and the African Youth Adaptation Solutions Challenge. Her dedication to advocating for education, climate change, and sustainable practices has earned her respect and recognition on the international stage.

Yewande Akinse’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of creativity, resilience, and purpose-driven work. Aspiring innovators, entrepreneurs, and advocates can draw valuable insights from her career, learning the importance of pushing boundaries, embracing diversity, and making a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

In conclusion, Yewande Akinse’s remarkable achievements in poetry, entrepreneurship, and advocacy underscore her status as a trailblazer in multiple domains. Her innovative strategies, coupled with her unwavering commitment to effecting positive change, have positioned her as a role model for aspiring individuals seeking to make a mark in their industries. Yewande’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion, creativity, and purpose in shaping a meaningful and impactful career.

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