There is something undeniably magnetic about a woman who knows the power of her own lens—both in photography and in life. Nigerian visual storyteller Tolani Alli is proof of that. Fresh off her impactful role at the African Development Bank (AfDB), she is now taking her talent global as the newest addition to the World Bank’s leadership team.
A Storyteller with Purpose
Tolani is not just snapping photos—she is documenting change. From capturing policy shifts at the highest levels to highlighting grassroots movements, her work bridges the gap between decision-makers and the people they serve. Her new role? Using visual storytelling to spotlight global issues like poverty, sustainability, and equity—because sometimes, a single image can move the world faster than a thousand reports.
From Local to Global Impact
Her journey reads like a masterclass in leveraging creativity for influence:
– 🇳🇬 Oyo State to the Presidency: She began as the official photographer for former Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, then became one of the few women to hold a visual storytelling role in Nigeria’s Presidency, working directly with former Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo.
– 🌍 African Development Bank: As the Executive Digital Storyteller to AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, she travelled across the continent, documenting how policy translates to real-world impact.
– 🌐 World Bank Era: Now, she is taking that same sharp eye for narrative to a global stage.
Why This Matters
In a world flooded with data and headlines, authentic storytelling cuts through the noise. Tolani’s work reminds us that behind every statistic, there’s a human face—a story waiting to be told. And when those stories are told well? They don’t just inform; they inspire action.
As she put it on Instagram, this move is “a continuation of purpose.” And if her track record is anything to go by, that purpose is only getting bigger.
What’s your favourite example of visual storytelling that moved you? Drop it in the comments! 👇
(P.S. Want more stories of women rewriting the rules? Follow us across our social media handles for your weekly dose of inspiration.)
