“You are never too young to start something big.” This quote is one that Olushola Olaleye has often reflected on, not just as a line from a motivational speech, but as a mantra that has shaped his life. He was only 19 when he finished Covenant University with a first-class degree in Sociology, the first male student to achieve such feat. In his early 20s, he started his first business, Trips Clothing, a bespoke clothing brand. Now 28 years old, Olushola is not just a successful entrepreneur, but also a thought leader, a pastor, and one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in Nigeria. However, the journey has not always been an easy one.
Losing his father at the tender age of 7 meant growing up faster than he could have imagined. There was no time to sulk or second-guess himself, life needed him to be ready, even when he wasn’t. When it became time to navigate the uncertain waters of adulthood, his entrepreneurial spirit began to bloom.
The canvas of his life was now being painted with colors that formed a story of resilience, independence, and the desire to build something that would outlast him. Trips Clothing was the first stroke on that canvas. Olushola has founded other businesses including BUY SOUPS & Lagos Smokey Jollof amongst others since then. He is also the convener of “Positioning For Profit,” an SME Masterclass for business owners designed to help them scale their ventures. Each endeavour and business has been like different shades of color in his growing portfolio, showing a mix of passion, hard work, and a dash of creativity.
But even more impressive than his businesses is his character. Olushola is not the loudest in the room, but he is one you would want to listen to. His tone, though firm, is kind and compelling. As a pastor and mentor to many, his influence stretches beyond the boardroom into spiritual and personal development. He speaks with the authority of one who has lived through the many ups and downs of life and business. It is this blend of knowledge, faith, and experience that has made him a rising voice among young business owners in Nigeria, and also among those between the ages of 20 to 45 years old who see him as both a role model and a mentor. As this success has not been without challenges, Olushola has faced the harsh realities of doing business in Nigeria.
From dealing with unreliable systems to navigating the herculean task of staying afloat in an unforgiving African business terrain. His undeniable knack for excellence has been very evident at every stage of his enterprise building. This has shown from the early stages of his business where he had to deliver his bespoke suits himself, weaving through Lagos’ infamous traffic just to make sure that his customers got what they ordered. The determination to succeed has been an important ingredient in who Olushola is today. No matter the obstacles, he has always found a way, and that determination has enhanced every part of his journey.
As a keynote speaker, Olushola’s words have been said to carry weight, not just because of his success, but because he has truly lived through every aspect of the process. He knows what it is like to start small, to face the fear of failure, and to push forward regardless.
His story is not only one of entrepreneurial success, it is also a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and vision. Whether he is speaking at a conference or mentoring young entrepreneurs, his message is clear, “You can start young”, and anyone can build something great with the right mindset.