Seye Goes Back To School (From Lagos to IESE MBA)

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I want to share with you the heartfelt story of a dreamer from the heart of Ikotun, Lagos, Nigeria—my story. Born into a humble family where my father drove buses and stood guard as a security man, affectionately known as a "gateman," and my mother dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom, life was a constant struggle. Yet, amid the challenges, my parents instilled in me and my four siblings the unyielding value of education.

After completing high school, a scholarship became the beacon of hope that led me to the African Leadership University (ALU), Mauritius. There, I pursued a degree in business management, earning a BA (honors) in 2019 and opening the door to a world of possibilities. However, the scholarship only covered tuition, leaving me to take on odd jobs—washing shoes, clothes, and running errands—to make ends meet, as my parents could not afford to support my pocket money.

Post-graduation from ALU, my journey took an unexpected turn as I landed a job as the technical assistant to the CEO at a fintech firm in Kenya. From there, my career unfolded across Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, and Uganda, exposing me to diverse experiences and challenges.

Now, on the cusp of a new chapter, I've been accepted into the prestigious IESE MBA program, ranked 3rd globally by the Financial Times in 2023. This achievement comes with a 70,000 euros scholarship for my fees, yet the total cost of the program is 105,000 euros. I humbly seek your support in raising 10,000 euros for my first deposit, due by January 19th.

This isn't just my story; it's a testament to the resilience of a boy from Lagos, Nigeria—a first-generation graduate student. It's about overcoming the odds, pursuing dreams, and breaking barriers. Your contribution to this fund isn't merely financial; it's an investment in a future that promises to be a beacon of success, not just for me, but for everyone who believes in the power of education and dreams.

As I stand on the brink of this remarkable opportunity, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you who chooses to be a part of this journey. Your support is not just a gift; it's a belief in the potential of dreams and the determination to turn them into reality.

Thank you for being a crucial part of this incredible journey.

With gratitude,

Seye "Oba" Obadeyi