On a beautiful day in October 2016, I received a call from my cousin, Ladian Shodipo. I hadn’t seen her in 30 years! That call rekindled our connection, and through her, I was introduced to the OLOGAFE family.
A few months later, I hosted a wedding celebration for my daughter in Nigeria. The OLOGAFE family graced the occasion in droves. That moment sealed it for me: I became hooked on anything and everything OLOGAFE.
Not long after, I got a call from the then-global president, Prof. Akinsola. She wanted me to start a North American chapter. Of course, I said no at first—America is huge, and I didn’t even know any other Ladians here! She gently insisted it wasn’t her idea but the desire of those who had appointed her president. She gave me a few names and phone numbers: Funmilayo Oluyinka, Bunmi Ajibade, Yinka Ajanaku, and Bunmi Kumapayi. With these incredible women, the North American Forum was born.
In 2018, Bunmi Kumapayi suggested we host a reunion. Atlanta, GA, was chosen—largely because of Ladian Dupe Onabanjo, whose love for OLOGAFE is truly unmatched. That reunion, made possible by Ladian Onabanjo, Ladian Bose Oshinubi, and Shola Shoneye, gave us a weekend to remember.
We planned another for Houston in 2020, but then COVID-19 changed everything. After a two-year delay, the long-awaited reunion finally happened in August 2022. It was unforgettable, with our president, Dr. Akinluyi, as our special guest. And just last year, we had our best reunion yet in Minnesota. Those who attended will surely agree!
Over the years, the North American chapter has passionately supported global OLOGAFE projects—whether it’s the e-Library, the fencing project, the school hall roofing, or simply paying our annual dues. What drives us is the awareness that we are blessed to live in America, and with that blessing comes the desire to give back.
For such a time as this (Esther 4:14), we are inspired by the sacrifices of our teachers—especially the Reverend Sisters, who left the comfort of their homes to shape the lives of young girls on Famia Road. We thank God because their labor was not in vain. Their investment in us has borne fruit.
By God’s grace, we’ve been able to make a real impact. We revamped the Science Laboratory and remain committed to our $100 annual dues. When special projects arise, we gladly contribute more. We are currently working on establishing our nonprofit organization to expand our reach and deepen our impact on our beloved alma mater.
Long live OLOGAFE