FUNSHO AROGUNDADE
Few weeks after the untimely demise of their matriarch, Mrs. Gbemisola Olutayo Olowolafe, the family has found a meaningful way to honour her memory by floating a memorial foundation in her name.
Mr. Olufunbi Olowolafe, the deceased’s son, announced the launch of the Gbemisola Olowolafe Memorial Foundation in Ado Ekiti at the recent 29th Convocation Ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU).
Olufunbi, who represented his father, Dr. Olatunji Olowolafe, who is the Chancellor of the University, said the foundation is the family’s way of ensuring that their late mother’s wishes endure and her legacy leaves a lasting, positive impact on society.
“I come to you today, not just as a scientist or a professional, but as a son, carrying forward a legacy that has shaped who I am. On March 11th, just a few weeks ago, I lost my mother, Mrs. Gbemisola Olutayo Olowolafe, after her courageous battle with leukemia. Her passing has left a void, but it has also ignited a purpose within me —one that I am excited to share with you today,” the young Olowolafe said.
He added, “My mother was a remarkable woman. A devout Christian and a philanthropist. She lived her faith through action. She was also a brilliant scientist —a lecturer who studied and taught biology with passion and precision. She believed that knowledge was a gift to be shared, and she poured her heart into uplifting communities. One of her deepest commitments was supporting research, to tackle sickle cell disease through stem cell advancements.
“She understood that science could transform lives, especially for those in under-served regions like ours. Her generosity wasn’t just financial —it was a generosity of spirit, a belief that every individual deserves a chance to thrive. Today, I stand here to announce the launch of the Gbemisola Olowolafe Memorial Foundation. This foundation is our way of ensuring that my mother’s wishes endure and her legacy leaves a lasting, positive impact on society.”
According to Olufunbi, a graduate of Imperial College London, where he studied Biology with Business Management, his mother’s dream was to see a world where diseases like cancer, sickle cell, and other genetic conditions no longer hold anyone’s back.
“To make that dream a reality, the foundation will focus on three key pillars: One, funding cutting-edge research. Two, raising advocacy and awareness, and Three, building a genetic database that better represents Nigerians in global research efforts. Why does this matter? You may ask… Because too often, medical breakthroughs don’t reflect us —our unique genetics, our challenges, and our resilience. We aim to change that.
“To the students here today, you are the future —scientists, leaders, innovators. You have the power to ask bold questions and seek solutions that uplift our communities. Mrs. Olowolafe once told me that education is not just about personal success; it’s about building a better world. As you step into your next chapter, I challenge you to think about how your talents can serve others. Whether it’s through science, business, or any field you choose, you can be part of something bigger.
“The Gbemisola Olowolafe Memorial Foundation is just the beginning, and we invite you —Ekiti’s brightest minds— to join us in this mission. Together, we can honor those who came before us by creating a healthier, stronger Nigeria for those who will follow us,” he added.
As a first step towards achieving the mission of the Foundation, the Olowolafe Family announced an award of N500,000 to every EKSU student graduating with a First Class Degree.
There are about 121 Class of 2025 students graduated with First Class and the foundation has expressed its commitment to the cause and to the lucky First class graduates on their incredible achievement.
On Tuesday, March 11, late Gbemisola, aged 63, departed this world peacefully, surrounded by her husband, Dr. Olatunji and her children.
As the wife of a renowned industrialist, businessman, and philanthropist, late Gbemisola was a constant source of support and encouragement. Together, they built a life of service, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship, leaving an enduring impact on Nigeria’s business, education, and healthcare landscapes.
Olowolafe —the Chairman of Deux Project and Chancellor of Ekiti State University— remembered his beloved wife as “a woman of extraordinary strength, wisdom, and compassion. Her passing leaves a void in our lives that can never be filled. She was my rock, my partner, and my best friend. I am grateful for the time we shared, and I will miss her dearly.”
