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The built environment should be viewed beyond property ownership and financial returns, with greater attention paid to how buildings and communities affect people’s daily lives, entrepreneur Okunsanya Oladamola has said.
Oladamola, who spoke on the relationship between the real estate, community development and mental wellbeing, said the spaces where people live, work and interact could influence social connection, accessibility, safety and a sense of belonging.
He said, “A building is more than bricks and concrete. It becomes part of someone’s daily life — their family, their work, their relationships and their community.”
According to him, poorly planned or neglected environments could contribute to social challenges such as isolation and insecurity, while well-planned communities could encourage interaction and strengthen residents’ sense of belonging.
He argued that addressing community challenges requires collaboration among government institutions, businesses, community organisations, professionals and individuals.
Oladamola also highlighted the connection between physical environments and mental wellbeing, saying mental health should not be viewed solely as a healthcare issue.
He said communities could contribute to mental health awareness, prevention, inclusion and social support, while stressing that community-based interventions should complement rather than replace professional mental health services.
The entrepreneur further called for a people-centred approach to urban development, urging stakeholders to consider whether projects respond to community needs, promote inclusion and accessibility, encourage interaction and contribute to safer environments.
He said the social impact of development should be considered alongside economic factors when assessing the success of projects.
Oladamola added that entrepreneurs should understand the effect of their decisions on the communities in which they operate.
He said, “Success should not only be measured by what we build financially. It should also be measured by the positive difference our work creates in people’s lives and in the communities around us.”
He maintained that responsible entrepreneurship requires businesses to create economic value while considering the wider social consequences of their activities.
