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By Lukman Olabiyi
Erelu Sherifatu Eshinlokun-Adegbesan is an educator trained Kingdom (UK) and the founder of Novelty Nursery and Primary School, Ogun State. She is also a passionate humanitarian who’s fervent desire to put a smile on the faces of the less privileged through the Life Changers Foundation, her brainchild which has become a huge success with thousands of indigents benefitting from her empowerment scheme, free healthcare services and educational initiatives.
In this interview, she talks about her work enhancing the lives of children, young people and indigent people through her school, NGO and Give Back Weekend initiative.
Give us a snapshot of your educational background.
My educational journey encompasses a diverse array of experiences across various institutions. I commenced my early schooling at Steppingstone Nursery and Primary School before continuing my secondary education at Baptist Girls College for approximately three years. Subsequently, I transitioned to Corona Secondary School to complete my secondary schooling. In 1997, I relocated to London, United Kingdom, to study for a diploma in Business Studies at Lambeth College. The experience laid the groundwork for my understanding business principles. Building upon this foundation, I enrolled the at North London University, now known as London Metropolitan University, where I obtained a bachelor’s degree in International Business and Marketing. Then I obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, specializing in Special Needs Education, at the University of East London, culminating in my qualification as a teacher.
What fond memories do you recall from your childhood?
Reflecting on my childhood evokes cherished memories of the unwavering love and support within my tight-knit family, the vibrant tapestry of Lagos culture, and the enduring values imparted by my parents, which serve as guiding principles to this day. One particular memory stands out vividly: a youthful inclination to extend assistance to families in need, often discreetly sharing portions of our monthly bulk food purchases. I recall instances where, unnoticed by my parents due to their late working hours, I would clandestinely cook extra meals and invite friends from less fortunate families to share in the abundance. Those clandestine acts were driven by a sense of joy and fulfillment, coupled with a passion for cooking that made the endeavour all the more enjoyable. Amid the hustle of our daily lives, my father would occasionally treat us to shawarma in Festac Town, and weekends were marked by visits to Badagry Beach and the ritual of slaughtering a chicken for our Sunday meal – an occasion I particularly relished, especially savouring the chicken’s head, a preference I maintain to this day. Such reminiscences abound, painting a vivid tableau of a childhood enriched by familial bonds and simple pleasures.
In what ways has your parents’ different heritage rubbed off on your personality?
The unique heritage of my parents, with my mother hailing from Lagos, embodying quintessential African values, and my father, a blend of English and Nigerian descent with a strong British influence, has profoundly shaped my personality. This amalgamation of cultural backgrounds has endowed me with a rich tapestry of perspectives, blending traditional African values with modern Western principles.
From my African mother, I inherited a sense of discipline and tradition, grounded in the values of respect, hard work, and community. Conversely, my British father introduced me to a more liberal and cosmopolitan outlook, fostering qualities of adaptability, empathy, and open-mindedness. This juxtaposition of upbringing instilled in me a balance between structure and flexibility, allowing me to navigate diverse cultural contexts with ease.
While I experienced the firm guidance of my African mother, characterized by her strictness, I also found solace in the comforting embrace of my British father, whose nurturing presence provided a counterbalance. These contrasting influences cultivated in me an openness to different perspectives, the autonomy to make informed choices, and a sense of accountability for those decisions. Overall, the amalgamation of my parents’ diverse heritage has imbued me with a nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics and a resilient adaptability in navigating life’s complexities.
What stirred your interest in teaching since you had initially wanted to become a lawyer?
The shift from my initial aspiration of becoming a lawyer to pursuing a career in teaching was driven by a profound desire to directly influence the lives of children and youths. While I harboured ambitions of practicing law, I recognized the immediate impact I could have as an educator in shaping young minds and fostering their development. This realization was further solidified by the establishment of a low-cost, high-quality school in Nigeria, where I endeavoured to uphold international educational standards, drawing from my background as a UK-qualified teacher. The experience of founding and managing this institution served as a catalyst for my decision to pursue a postgraduate degree in education as I sought to deepen my understanding and effectiveness in this field.
At what point did you decide to establish the Novelty Nursery and Primary School in Ogun State. What impact would say it has made in the community?
The establishment of Novelty Nursery and Primary School was driven by a commitment to provide quality education and support to children within the community. The school has made a great impact since it was founded in 2011, by offering a robust educational framework to numerous children and contributing to the holistic development of the community by nurturing its future leaders. Additionally, we have extended educational opportunities to deserving members of the community through scholarships. Notably, we provided full scholarships to children in challenging circumstances, such as an elderly retired widow tasked with caring for her incapacitated daughter’s children. These scholarships cover all aspects of their education, including tuition, books, stationery, and uniforms, demonstrating our dedication to ensuring access to quality education for all.
Beyond the school, in what other ways are you contributing to make the society better through charity works?
The desire to do charity in a more organised manner led me to establish Life Changers Foundation as a non-governmental organisation with a fervent dedication to charitable endeavours, particularly in the realm of uplifting the lives of individuals, notably children and young people. This foundation has recorded significant accomplishments, including facilitating vocational skills training for over 5000 individuals, offering essential healthcare services, and distributing educational materials. Currently, we are actively engaged in the establishment of a children’s home in Lagos State, specifically within the Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area, to provide shelter and support for orphaned and displaced children.
Our initiatives extend beyond physical aid; we collaborate with various monarchs to empower communities through vocational training programmes and comprehensive medical assistance, including free eye tests, eyeglasses, and medications. As a charity consultant, I am dedicated to ensuring that Life Changers Foundation remains steadfast in its vision by implementing strategic approaches and fostering partnerships to amplify its impact. Moreover, through the foundation, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with legislators worldwide, conducting Legislative Capacity Building programmes in countries such as Pakistan, Maldives, Argentina, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Ghana, and Nigeria, fostering legislative empowerment and advocacy for positive change.
What do you plan to achieve with the Give Back Weekend initiative?
The objective of the ‘Give Back Weekend’ initiative is to extend crucial assistance and provisions to vulnerable individuals residing in Lagos and Ogun states, on a monthly basis. Originating from my endeavours in London, where I provided steadfast support to migrant families facing resource constraints due to their limited access to public funds, this initiative has now expanded its reach to encompass various demographics in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, our focus primarily lies on aiding the elderly, widows, single-parent families, and young individuals who are grappling with socio-economic challenges. This support includes the provision of clothing, toiletries, food supplies, and other essential household items. By addressing these immediate needs, we aspire to foster a sense of community cohesion and solidarity among those facing adversity, thereby fostering a more supportive and resilient societal fabric.
From your perspective, are there similarities/differences between working in the United Kingdom and Nigeria?
When comparing the dynamics of working in the United Kingdom and Nigeria, it becomes evident that there are both similarities and differences. While the fundamental principles of charity work and caregiving remain steadfast across borders, the operational landscapes, cultural intricacies, and encountered challenges diverge significantly.
Both contexts share the common objective of effecting positive societal change through charitable endeavours. However, the methods of achieving this goal may vary due to the unique circumstances of each region. One notable distinction lies in the realm of funding. In the UK, financial support for charitable activities is often more accessible, with numerous organizations available for potential collaboration. In contrast, securing funding in Nigeria can pose considerable challenges, as the pool of available resources is more limited.
Additionally, the availability of volunteers differs between the two settings. In Nigeria, there is generally a greater willingness among individuals to volunteer their time and efforts for charitable causes. Conversely, recruiting volunteers in the UK may present occasional difficulties, requiring more proactive outreach efforts.
Despite these variances, the overarching commitment to making a positive impact on society remains a unifying factor across both experiences. By recognizing and adapting to the unique dynamics of each context, organizations like ours have been able to effectively navigate challenges and maximize our contributions to the communities we serve.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
In summary, I embody resilience, compassion and vision.
What are your likes and dislikes?
My preferences revolve around endeavours that enrich the lives of others, such as fostering positive change, empowering women, and nurturing the potential of children. Witnessing the prosperity and growth of individuals brings me immense satisfaction. Conversely, I harbour a strong aversion towards injustice, inequalities, and the needless suffering of others. Reflecting on my own experiences of vulnerability during my teenage years has fuelled my advocacy for young people, driving me to seize every opportunity to positively impact the lives of the youth I encounter.
How would you describe your sense of style?
My sense of style is reflective of my mood and occasion. While I may not be considered a fashion enthusiast, I place importance on presenting myself well, particularly at events. Describing it as sophisticated yet approachable encapsulates my preference for timeless pieces with a contemporary flair. I enjoy infusing cultural elements into my attire as a means of honouring my heritage.
Recall the most valuable advice you got from your father and which has helped you through the years.
One enduring advice from my father that has profoundly impacted me is the importance of maintaining authenticity, integrity, and steadfastness in all my pursuits. Regardless of the challenges I may face, his counsel to stay true to my principles and values has been a guiding light. He often reminds me of my inherent goodness and encourages me to continue embodying it through my actions.
How do you juggle being a wife, mother and managing different enterprises?
Balancing the roles of wife and mother with my professional obligations necessitates adept time management, clear communication, and unwavering familial support. As Anthony Robbins famously said, “It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It’s what we do consistently.” We prioritize transparent communication within our family, delegate responsibilities, and carve out dedicated moments for quality time together, adhering to Robbins’ principle that “quality questions create a quality life.” This concerted effort fosters a harmonious equilibrium, ensuring that each aspect of my life receives the attention and nurturing it deserves.
Considering your hectic work schedule, how do you unwind and relax?
Amid my demanding work schedule, I prioritize moments of relaxation and rejuvenation to maintain balance and well-being. I find solace in cherished moments with my family, where I am fully present and engaged, free from distractions. Additionally, I incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation and prayer to centre myself and cultivate inner peace. Pursuing hobbies like reading, particularly through audio books, offers me a welcomed escape and mental stimulation. Occasionally, I indulge in self-care rituals such as spa treatments or serene walks in nature, recognizing the importance of nurturing my physical and emotional health amidst life’s busyness.
Would you still want to study Law at some point in the near future?
Although I am presently dedicated to my endeavours in education and charity work, I maintain a willingness to consider pursuing studies in Law should circumstances permit and if it complements my overarching objectives and aspirations.
What chieftaincy titles have you been honoured with, and how do these titles reflect your dedication to philanthropy and your aspirations for societal change, particularly in Africa?
I have been honoured with numerous awards and esteemed chieftaincy titles, including Yeye Shewa, Erelu Fimogboye, and Yeye Amuludun, among others. My commitment to effecting positive change extends globally, with a particular focus on improving the lives of children and young people worldwide.
I remain steadfast in my philanthropic pursuits, dedicated to aiding the marginalized and vulnerable who are often overlooked. Looking ahead, I aspire to amplify my impact as a catalyst for change, particularly within the African continent, striving to foster transparency and integrity within its political landscape.
