Gerald Ayoola Olusuyi -
Founder, Concerned Parents & Educators Initiative (CPE) /CEO, Edumark Consult. /Convener, TOSSE
Today we honour the life of a true giant in Nigeria’s education sector, a certified John Maxwell Leadership Coach.
Though we mourn her passing, we celebrate Mrs. Yinka Ogunde for the countless lives she touched and the lasting structures she built.
1. She was the Champion of Education Reform Through Edumark Consult, she dedicated over a decade to confronting the biggest issues in Nigeria’s education sector and promoting improvement at all levels.
2. Chief Connector for the Sector She became the undisputed chief connector for educationists and industry regulators, linking educators, parents, product/service providers, government officials, and students.
3. Founder of TOSSE. As Convener of Africa’s leading education exhibition, _The Total School Support Seminar/Exhibition (TOSSE), she created an annual platform for stakeholders to learn, connect, and grow their network/business for over 10 years.
4. Voice for Parents & Teachers. She founded the Concerned Parents and Educators (CPE) Initiative, a leading platform for Nigerian educators, and implemented impactful projects supporting Nigerian children.
5. Mentor to the Next Generation Through We Are The Future Of Our Nation (WATFON). she groomed patriotic young people by connecting them with role models who shared success stories and Nigerian dreams.
6. Advocate Against Brain Drain. She was passionate about making Nigeria better to curb the ‘Japa’ syndrome, holding stakeholder meetings on investing in human potential through education.
7. Recognized National Impact. Her commitment earned her a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Guild of Photojournalists Nigeria for contributions to education and media advocacy.
Mrs. Yinka Ogunde turned her Mass Communication background into a “blue ocean strategy” for education marketing. She ran from awards but treasured this one because her work was never about accolades, but about children, teachers, and a better Nigeria.
Her light shines on in every teacher trained, every school supported, every child inspired, and every parent empowered.
Rest well, Ma. Your legacy lives.