Yeye Afolashade Shona-Aluko, also known as the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, a prominent educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist with over fifty years of experience in Nigeria, formally launched the Association of Female Skilled Artisans Initiative Canada (AOFSAIC) at the Salvation Army Shelter in Brampton, Ontario, on May 16th, amidst community leaders and supporters like Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, Chief Victor Alonge, Queen Mother Delois Blakely, Queen Esther Ejim, Chief Jumoke Abegunde and a host of others.
During her address, Yeye Folashade emphasized that the Canadian branch was established to extend her efforts in fostering economic independence among African women globally. She highlighted that the initiative seeks to help women acquire valuable skills such as tailoring, hairdressing, and crafts, enabling them to achieve financial stability and independence.
At the event, HRH Dr. Olusegun Aderemi, the Atayero of Aramoko Ekiti, underscored the critical importance of artisans to economic growth. He stated, “Artisans are the backbone of a thriving economy, and their contributions to the informal sector are essential for national development.” He further noted that empowering women through such initiatives not only amplifies their voice but also promotes inclusive growth.
In her speech, Yeye Folashade noted that the association is already active in Nigeria, with numerous branches across major cities. She stressed that establishing a Canadian chapter, particularly in Brampton; home to over 12,000 Nigerian immigrants, is vital for extending opportunities to more women seeking self-sufficiency and entrepreneurial success. She added that expanding into Canada aligns with Nigeria’s national shift from conventional employment towards a more dynamic, skills-based economy driven by immigrant entrepreneurs.
Yeye Afolashade’s academic background includes secondary education at Queen Elizabeth School in Ilorin, followed by studies at the Federal College of Education in Kano State. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education Management from Ogun State University, now Olabisi Onabanjo University. She began her career in Nigeria’s educational sector, mentoring students who now occupy leadership roles in various institutions.
Her organization collaborates with Nigerian government agencies such as the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEB), supplying safe and quality learning and play materials to schools nationwide.
Her numerous awards include distinctions from the Lagos State Ministry of Education, Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Security Watch Africa. She has been conferred chieftaincy titles and honorary doctorates, acknowledging her significant contributions to education, humanitarian efforts, and community development.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Yeye Afolashade mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and supports philanthropy through scholarships and community projects. She advocates for the marginalized, empowering women and youth, and continues to champion women’s advancement in Nigeria. In 2023, she was appointed the National Matron of the Association of Female Artisans in Nigeria, further emphasizing her dedication to women’s empowerment and discipline.
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