By Johnson Adebowale
In an era where leadership is often measured by influence and titles, Akinfosile Olayide Merit redefines it through service, empathy and an unyielding commitment to community growth.
From the classrooms of Adekunle Ajasin University to the far-flung corners of underserved communities, Olayide’s life paints the picture of a woman who has chosen impact over accolades. A graduate of Geography and Planning Science, she has transformed academic foundations into practical tools for advocacy, empowerment, and transformation.
Her journey began with more than just books and grades. In the university, she distinguished herself not only through academic excellence but also through active participation in student associations and environmental campaigns—early indicators of a purpose-driven life.
Over the years, she has built a multidimensional career—bridging education, healthcare, real estate, technology and social development. From serving as a nursery school teacher to functioning as a rehabilitation therapist, and from consulting on immigration scholarships to leading business ventures, her professional path reflects both versatility and deep human connection.
Her leadership was apparent from an early age. As president of her secondary school’s science club and later the Operation Clean the Earth initiative in 2013, Olayide spearheaded sanitation drives that reached six communities in Ondo State, igniting awareness around public health and environmental sustainability.
For over a decade, she has volunteered in healthcare outreaches, youth and women empowerment programmes and educational projects. Her strength lies in seeing people—not as problems to be solved, but as potential to be nurtured.
Currently, she brings this same heart-centred focus to her role as a realtor at Pinaosem International Company Ltd, guiding clients through one of life’s most significant investments: home ownership. Her previous stints in administrative and project management roles, such as at Worldwide Health Care and Cakasa Nigeria Company Ltd, earned her recognition for excellence and reliability.
Olayide’s commitment to building lives also extends into academia. Her undergraduate research, titled “Pipeline Vandalization and Mortality in the Niger-Delta Region: A Case Study of Jesse,” showcased a deep concern for Nigeria’s environmental challenges. She has since contributed to multiple data-driven and planning initiatives that promote sustainable development.
She’s not gone unnoticed. Recognitions from the Nigeria Fellowship of Christ, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and accolades from various employers underline a consistent thread of integrity, excellence, and compassion.
Merit is more than a professional; she’s a movement. A movement of hope, action and of change. Her journey is proof that lasting transformation does not begin with wealth or power—but with one person, willing to serve.