At just 23, Imisioluwa Opeyemi Ayanwale, fondly known as Imisi, has become a symbol of resilience, creativity, and transformation. Crowned as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 10, the Nigerian fashion designer, actress, and social media personality walked away with the ₦150 million grand prize after weeks of intense competition, emotional revelations, and inspiring authenticity. But beyond the lights, cameras, and confetti, lies the story of a young woman whose journey is rooted in courage, faith, and an unyielding desire to rise above life’s trials.
Born on January 24, 2002, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Imisi hails from a proud Yoruba and Christian background. Raised by Mr. and Mrs. Ayanwale, she grew up in an environment that valued faith, education, and perseverance. However, her early years were not without hardship. At the tender age of twelve, she left her parents’ home under difficult circumstances, a defining moment that forced her into independence far earlier than most. It was during this period that Imisi began to understand the world’s complexities, learning to rely on her strength, resilience, and God’s grace —traits that later became the backbone of her success story.
Imisi had her primary and secondary education in Oyo State, where her creative instincts began to blossom. Teachers and peers often described her as expressive and imaginative, always sketching fashion pieces or acting in school plays. Her early exposure to creativity helped shape her identity, teaching her that art could be both an escape and a voice, a truth that later guide her career in fashion and entertainment.
After secondary school, she moved to Lagos to pursue her passion professionally. She studied Fashion Design at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), earning an Ordinary National Diploma (OND). While rumors circulated about her attendance at the University of Ibadan, Imisi herself confirmed YABATECH as her alma mater. Her time in Lagos was marked by determination and hustle. She worked part-time, designed clothes for students and small boutiques, and began laying the foundation for her fashion brand.
Beneath her growing confidence, however, lay deep personal pain. Imisi has bravely shared her experiences of being sexually assaulted at a young age and later losing a pregnancy due to a toxic relationship. These life-altering events, though devastating, became her source of strength and empathy. Instead of allowing trauma to define her, she transformed it into purpose, advocating for healing, emotional self-awareness, and women’s empowerment. Her vulnerability and openness resonated deeply with fans across Nigeria, making her not just a celebrity, but a voice of courage and authenticity.
As a fashion designer, Imisi is the creative force behind a budding brand known for its modern yet culturally inspired pieces. Her designs celebrate African femininity bold, colorful, and confident much like her own personality. Beyond fashion, she is also an aspiring actress and scriptwriter, with small but promising Nollywood appearances that showcase her storytelling flair. Whether through fabric, film, or words, Imisi continues to express the beauty and complexity of womanhood.
Inside the Big Brother Naija house, Imisi stood out for her calm confidence, emotional intelligence, and genuine nature. She wasn’t the loudest voice, but she was often the most grounded a listener, a nurturer, and a symbol of quiet strength. Her journey in the house was one of emotional growth and self-acceptance, which endeared her to fans nationwide. When she was announced as the winner, it felt like a victory not just for her, but for every young person who has faced pain and still chosen hope.
Today, with an estimated net worth between $50,000 and $105,000, now amplified by her ₦150 million win, Imisi stands on the threshold of greater opportunities. She plans to expand her fashion brand, delve deeper into acting, and use her platform to inspire and mentor young women. Her story is not merely one of fame, it is a powerful testament to grace, grit, and growth. From a young girl navigating adversity in Oyo State to a national star commanding the spotlight, Imisi Ayanwale embodies the beauty of transformation proving that no matter where you start, your story can still shine bright enough to light up the world.
