In celebrating another remarkable milestone in the life of Bolaji Odunuga, CEO of Duchess and Duke International Magazines, IT Security Analyst, Entrepreneur, devoted mother to three wonderful boys, and passionate Rotarian, we take a moment to honour the extraordinary impact she has made in each of these roles.
Affectionately known as “Duchess Bolaji”, she made history as the 70th and first Black President of the Rotary Club of Crawley in the United Kingdom. A true embodiment of leadership, selflessness, and community building, Bolaji has consistently championed the values of service and inclusivity.
During her tenure with the Rotary Club of Crawley, Bolaji brought a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the achievements and relevance of people of African descent. Her role as the Organisation Lead for the Africa Community in Surrey & Sussex (ACISS) further highlights her passion for fostering positive change within diverse communities.
Those who know her well often speak of her heart. A blend of resilience, determination, and pure gold. A proud alumna of South Bank University, where she earned a degree in Business Information Technology, Bolaji has over a decade of experience in publishing. Driven by a desire to inspire women from all walks of life, she launched Duchess International Magazine in 2014, expanding its reach to Nigeria in 2018. The magazine has since become a powerful platform for celebrating the achievements and contributions of people of African heritage.
In 2021, Bolaji joined the Rotary Club of Isolo in Nigeria, where she served as the Image Chair, quickly demonstrating her dedication to service. Her exceptional contributions led her to transfer her membership to the Rotary Club of Crawley, where she assumed the prestigious role of President, a testament to her outstanding leadership and commitment to Rotary’s mission of “Service above Self.”
Bolaji’s remarkable achievements have earned her numerous accolades and widespread recognition for her community service and selfless contributions. Her dedication to community development and the publishing industry is evident in the indelible mark she has left on both fields.
A woman of many talents—from seasoned IT security analyst to successful publisher and CEO, Bolaji is not just a leader but a pacesetter. She sets her own goals while creating pathways for others to follow. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and her focus on promoting the achievements of people of African descent have positioned Duke and Duchess International Magazines at the forefront of the publishing industry, making a significant impact in celebrating African culture, heritage, and excellence.
Bolaji is a firm believer in the importance of self-love, respect, and integrity. She encourages women to embrace their inner strength, live authentically, and strive for greatness. Despite facing discrimination early in her publishing career, she has used her platform to help others overcome similar challenges, earning recognition for her work in promoting African culture and heritage.
Bolaji Odunuga is a shining example of resilience, determination, and the power of service. Her story is one of hope and possibility, inspiring women and men alike to reach greater heights and shape a world filled with positivity and endless opportunities.
On this special day, we join her family, friends, and admirers in wishing Bolaji Odunuga a very happy birthday. Here’s to a true Black Queen who continues to make waves and change lives!
Happy Birthday, Duchess Bolaji Odunuga!
