At first glance, Tokunbo Omotara Fajemisin’s appearance may seem modest, with a list of schools she attended and her current profession as a writer. However, her story is nothing short of remarkable.
Born and raised in the town of Ilesha, Nigeria, Tokunbo’s love for education and writing was evident from a young age. She attended Vetland Grammar School Agege, where she excelled academically and discovered her love for literature. Despite facing financial challenges, Tokunbo’s thirst for knowledge led her to pursue higher education.
After completing secondary school at Vetland, she enrolled at London Guildhall University to study economics. It was during this time that Tokunbo’s passion for writing reignited. She became a regular contributor to the university’s student newspaper, and her writing quickly caught the attention of readers and editors alike.
Tokunbo’s talent and dedication to writing paved the way for her to pursue a career in journalism. After completing her economics degree, she enrolled in Lewisham College to study journalism, and then returned to London Guildhall University for a postgraduate degree in journalism. Her persistence paid off, and she secured her first job as a staff writer for a London-based newspaper.
Tokunbo’s journey has not been without its challenges. As a Black woman in a predominantly White industry, she has faced discrimination and bias. However, she refused to let these obstacles hinder her ambitions. She continued to write and publish articles that shed light on issues affecting Black communities, and her work gained recognition from her peers and readers.
As a self-employed writer today, Tokunbo is committed to using her platform to amplify the voices of Black women and to inspire the next generation of writers. Her work has been featured in international publications, and she has spoken at various events on the importance of representation and diversity in media.
Tokunbo’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of pursuing one’s passions. Her journey from Ilesha to Guildhall is a reminder that no dream is too big, and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
In celebration of the 2023 International Women’s Day, we honor Tokunbo Omotara Fajemisin and her unwavering commitment to breaking barriers and paving the way for the next generation of Black and African women in the world of media.
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Joseph Omoniyi
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