I am Toyyib Adewale Adelodun, a motivational speaker, life coach, and mental health advocate. I was born into a poor family in Mushin, Lagos, Nigeria. Growing up, I faced the challenge of financial hardship, prompting me to work tirelessly from the age of 5 to secure a scholarship for a quality education in the area. My dedication extended to supporting my siblings’ homeschooling using the books I acquired.

The impact of poverty followed me into adulthood, leading to three instances of dropping out of school. Despite these setbacks, I remained resilient, refusing to give up on my education. In 2002, I was introduced to the Internet, opening the door for me to explore opportunities to study abroad. Despite facing seven visa denials, I persevered.

My journey led me to London, where I supported myself by working multiple jobs before and after school. One fateful night, I didn’t return home but ended up in an intensive care psychiatric hospital, sectioned under the mental health act. Spending five months in the hospital resulted in the loss of my job, accommodation, and a place in school. Upon discharge, I resorted to couch surfing in London, battling depression and suicidal thoughts.

Eventually, I secured a job as a laborer on a construction site. Over a decade, I climbed the ranks to project management. Through my experiences, I’ve become a source of inspiration for thousands worldwide, delivering speeches to students and organizations with messages of hope, resilience, and perseverance. I’ve directly assisted thousands of students in planning their career paths and accessing global work opportunities.