Born in Idiaraba, Mushin, Lagos State, Nigeria, I was raised in a family where a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and spiritual values was instilled early on. My father, Chief Daniels Oni Olajubu, an industrialist, and my mother, Rev. Dr. Maria Olajubu, a deeply committed religious leader, both shaped my worldview and ambitions in profound ways. Their dedication to excellence, hard work, and service to the community laid the foundation for my passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
Growing up in Lagos, I attended African Church Primary School, where I began to develop a love for learning and a deep sense of curiosity about the world around me. Afterward, I moved on to Sonmori Comprehensive High School in Ifako, Ijaye, where my academic performance was complemented by a keen interest in human behaviour and societal development. It was during these formative years that I first realized my desire to help people overcome challenges and build better futures for themselves.
In my early 20s, seeking greater opportunities for growth and education, I moved to Austria. In 1995, I enrolled at the International Christian University in Vienna, where I earned my degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Business Management. This degree helped me hone my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of organizational structures and management practices. Austria provided me with exposure to a diverse, global perspective, which significantly shaped my approach to leadership, both in business and in humanitarian work.
Furthering my education, I attended the Vienna School of Economics, where I earned a certificate in Human Resources and Personnel Management in 2005. The study of human resources and personnel management was crucial in shaping my approach to working with people, whether through counselling, business ventures, or community outreach. It also highlighted the importance of building cohesive, motivated teams—an essential skill in my later work as both a counsellor and social entrepreneur.
In 2006, my academic journey took a crucial turn when I pursued my second degree in Psychosocial Studies, a field that aligned closely with my growing passion for understanding human behaviour, mental health, and the broader societal issues people face. Four years later, in 2010, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Advanced Stress Management Consulting, equipping me with the tools to provide effective guidance and support to individuals navigating personal challenges and emotional stress.
In 2020, my thirst for knowledge and passion for social change led me to further my education at the University of East London (UEL), where I earned a Master’s Degree in NGO and Development Management. At UEL, I was able to merge my interest in human development with my dedication to working within non-governmental organizations and social enterprises. My academic journey at UEL was not just about studying; it was about becoming an active part of the university community. I was honoured to be selected as a faculty-student representative, a role I served in for three years. This experience taught me the importance of Teamwork, collaboration, representation, and advocating for both students and faculty, further enhancing my leadership and organizational skills.
My educational journey, spanning multiple disciplines from business to psychosocial studies and development management, has been a defining aspect of who I am today. It is through this continuous pursuit of knowledge that I have been able to blend my academic background with real-world experience in counseling, social development, and community leadership. Every stage of my education has contributed to the person I am today—someone dedicated to not just understanding the complexities of human behavior, but also taking action to create lasting, positive change in the world.
HUMANITARIAN WORK
Funmi Ademilua is a passionate and dedicated humanitarian whose life’s work has focused on empowering the voiceless and serving the underprivileged. With a career that spans over 30 years, she has made an indelible mark in the fields of counselling, philanthropy, and social advocacy, impacting countless lives, particularly among young people, by providing them with essential educational, psychological, and financial support. Her work has been instrumental in lifting others out of hardship and guiding them toward a better future.
Funmi’s humanitarian career began in Vienna, Austria, after being helped by Mother Teresa and later volunteered at the Mother Teresa Homeless Center from 1993 to 1995. This experience was the catalyst for her deep commitment to humanitarian work. It was at the Homeless Center that she witnessed the harsh realities of life for marginalized communities and developed a profound empathy for the homeless, refugees, and displaced individuals. Motivated by this, she went on to serve as a German translator at refugee camps, helping displaced families navigate new challenges in foreign countries. Her ability to communicate across language barriers gave her a unique vantage point, enabling her to understand the diverse struggles of those seeking refuge.
In time, Funmi’s contributions expanded as she joined the Caritas Catholic North Diocese, working with marginalized communities and refugees, and advocating for their rights and well-being. Her involvement in these roles further solidified her belief in the power of compassion and the importance of support systems for the most vulnerable members of society.
Funmi’s leadership abilities also led her to a prestigious position as the treasurer of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), a role in which she was responsible for managing the organization’s financial operations while working alongside other passionate advocates for civil rights. Her involvement with the NAACP also deepened her commitment to fighting for equality, social justice, and empowering underrepresented communities.
Her professional journey also includes participation in a Global Cultural Event organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), where she engaged with international thought leaders, community advocates, and policymakers to promote sustainable development and cultural understanding.
A significant milestone in Funmi’s career came in 2010 when she founded the Good Samaritan Foundation (TGSF), a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to supporting young people and underprivileged communities in the UK. With branches in both the UK and Nigeria, TGSF focuses on empowering youth through education, professional development, life skills training, and advocacy. Funmi’s leadership within the foundation has made it a beacon of hope for many young people in these countries, offering them the tools and mentorship they need to succeed in life. Through motivational talks, youth development programmes, and advocacy initiatives, she has helped countless young people overcome obstacles and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Funmi’s dedication to service extends beyond her NGO work. Her professional qualifications are bolstered by numerous achievements in counselling and leadership. She holds a counselling and counsellor training associate certificate, which has further honed her ability to provide psychological support to individuals and communities in need. She also served as a School Governor and the Chair of the Welfare and Spiritual Committee at Box Grove Primary School, playing a pivotal role in ensuring that students and their families had access to welfare services, spiritual guidance, and emotional support.
Additionally, Funmi has been a valued member of the Rotary Club Lewisham and Penge, where she served as the President from 2021 to 2022. As President, she led the club’s efforts to drive social impact through local and international service projects, working with a dedicated team of individuals to bring about positive change in the community.
Funmi’s commitment to peace and safety also led her to become a member of the United Nations Global Compact, Universal Peace Federation, and the Lewisham Safer Neighborhood Board, where she worked on initiatives to reduce crime, promote community safety, and improve the quality of life for residents. Her role on the board allowed her to influence policy decisions that directly impacted local neighbourhoods.
In addition, Funmi has extended her humanitarian work to Nigeria, where she provided psychosocial support to Boko Haram victims—internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by violence and conflict. Through her work with these vulnerable communities, Funmi has been instrumental in helping individuals rebuild their lives, providing them with emotional support and guidance as they recover from trauma.
Through her visionary leadership, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to social justice, Funmi Ademilua has earned the respect of her peers and the admiration of those she has helped. She is a true advocate, a mentor, and a trusted leader who continues to inspire and uplift children, youth, and communities in need. Her remarkable career is a testament to the power of one individual’s dedication to changing the world, one life at a time.
Achievements:
Funmi Ademilua is a visionary leader whose unwavering dedication to humanitarian work has made an incredible impact on communities both locally and globally. With a deep passion for serving the underprivileged, she has devoted her life to uplifting others, particularly marginalized youth, and empowering them with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed.
As the CEO of Meg Charles Kollections a successful clothing brand established in 2006 in the UK, Funmi has used her platform not only to create a thriving business but also to make a meaningful difference in the world. Her brand has been a vehicle for community development, enabling her to channel resources into charitable causes that benefit both her local community and communities abroad. Through this enterprise, Funmi has provided financial support to various humanitarian initiatives, demonstrating that business success can go hand in hand with social responsibility.
One of Funmi’s most impactful roles has been as a grand patroness of West African youth evangelism, where she has worked tirelessly to empower young people. By dedicating her time and energy to youth-focused programs, she has been instrumental in providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities for the youth of West Africa, helping them navigate challenges and realize their full potential. Through these efforts, Funmi has become a trusted voice in the community, working to address youth issues and create pathways to a brighter future.
In addition to her work with youth, Funmi has been an active advocate for community safety and psychosocial support. Her leadership was particularly evident when she spearheaded a human trafficking awareness campaign in Vienna, Austria, in 2018, aimed at protecting and supporting victims of this tragic crime. Her campaign brought attention to the devastating effects of human trafficking, and through her leadership, she was able to mobilize both local and international resources to help combat this global issue. Her tireless efforts in this area underscore her dedication to advocating for the most vulnerable in society.
In 2014, Funmi’s remarkable work also brought her into close contact with local and international leaders who share her passion for social justice. Notably, she had the privilege of engaging with the Former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, at the House of Commons in the UK, where they discussed pressing issues such as youth unemployment and the lack of economic opportunities. This meeting was an important milestone in Funmi’s career, as it provided her with a platform to speak directly to influential figures about the challenges facing African youth and the need for sustainable solutions. Her unwavering commitment to driving change on these critical issues earned her the respect of leaders around the world.
Beyond her work in the UK and Europe, Funmi’s humanitarian efforts have taken her to several countries, where she has offered support to people in need. Whether it is providing educational resources in war-torn areas, offering psychological support to victims of violence, or providing food and shelter to refugees, Funmi has never wavered in her mission to make a tangible impact in the lives of those she serves. Her compassion and resilience have been the driving force behind countless projects aimed at uplifting the most vulnerable.
One of Funmi’s most exciting projects is the chronicling of her journey through a book and documentary, which aim to inspire women of all ages. This upcoming project will provide a platform for Funmi to share the lessons she has learned over her career, offering hope and encouragement to those facing adversity. Her story is one of perseverance, compassion, and unyielding commitment, and through her book and documentary, she seeks to leave a lasting legacy that will empower generations to come.
Throughout her career, Funmi has been a tireless advocate for human development, education, and gender equality, particularly for women in rural areas in Nigeria. Her efforts have focused on providing access to education, resources, and psychosocial support for widows, children, and youth, particularly in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Northern Nigeria. Funmi’s work in these camps has brought much-needed attention to the struggles faced by those displaced by conflict and violence. Through her efforts, she has provided hope and opportunities to individuals and families who have lost everything, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity and support.
Funmi Ademilua’s achievements over the past three decades stand as a testament to her relentless commitment to service and positive change. She has been a beacon of hope for the underprivileged, touching countless lives with her advocacy, leadership, and compassion. Her impact extends far beyond the communities she works with, as her example continues to inspire others to pursue lives of purpose, service, and selflessness. As she moves forward, Funmi will undoubtedly continue to leave an indelible legacy, proving that one individual’s unwavering support for the underprivileged can indeed change the world.
Recognition
Funmi Ademilua is a multi-award-winning humanitarian whose exceptional contributions to society have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. Her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the underprivileged has earned her numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout her career, solidifying her as a leading figure in the field of humanitarian work.
In 2014, Funmi was honored by the Greenwich Council for her outstanding community service. This recognition celebrated her years of tireless work in supporting local communities and empowering individuals, particularly youth, through educational and social initiatives. Her commitment to fostering positive change in her community was acknowledged as a shining example of selfless dedication and leadership.
The following year, Funmi was awarded the Best Youth Advocate of the Year by the Abike Ade Foundation in the United Kingdom. This award recognized her exceptional efforts to uplift and support young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Through her advocacy, mentoring, and community outreach programs, Funmi has helped countless youths overcome personal challenges and gain access to the resources they need to succeed.
In 2017, her humanitarian efforts were further celebrated when she received the Nigerian British Award for being the Best Humanitarian Worker. This prestigious accolade acknowledged Funmi’s ongoing dedication to serving others, particularly in the areas of education, youth development, and psychosocial support. Her work in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom has had a far-reaching impact, touching the lives of individuals and communities in need.
Funmi’s influence continued to grow, and in 2019, she was named a finalist in the GAB Awards London as the Best Youth Advocate. This recognition highlighted her exceptional leadership in advocating for youth empowerment, particularly through her work with the Good Samaritan Foundation (TGSF) and various community initiatives aimed at creating better opportunities for young people.
In 2022, Funmi received the Charity Award from Extraordinary Achievers (TEA), which honored her commitment to charitable causes and her transformative work in the field of humanitarian aid. That same year, she was also recognized by the Nelas Academy as one of the Ten Most Influential Women in Humanitarian Work, a prestigious recognition that acknowledges the incredible impact of her service to others. This recognition is a testament to Funmi’s leadership and her consistent ability to drive social change in her community and beyond.
In 2024, Funmi’s outstanding contributions were celebrated once again when she received the Women of Praise Awards (WOPA) UK Most Influential Women of the Year. This prestigious award recognized her as one of the most influential women in the UK, honoring her ability to inspire change, uplift communities, and serve as a role model for others. This award further solidified her position as one of the leading figures in the field of humanitarian work, particularly for women and youth.
Through her remarkable achievements, Funmi Ademilua has not only earned recognition for her humanitarian work but has also become an inspiration to many. Her awards and honors are a reflection of her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. As she continues her mission of service, Funmi’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of leaders and advocates to follow in her footsteps.
Personal Life
Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Funmi Ademilua is also a proud mother and grandmother, deeply committed to her family. She is a loving mother to three wonderful children: Tobi, Tola, and Naomi, who have been her constant source of joy and motivation. Funmi has always prioritized her role as a mother, guiding her children with the same compassion, wisdom, and determination that she brings to her humanitarian work. Her children have grown up with a deep appreciation for service, kindness, and the importance of making a positive difference in the world.
In addition to her children, Funmi is also a devoted grandmother to Taliyah, her beloved granddaughter. Becoming a grandmother has brought even more joy into her life, and she cherishes the opportunity to pass on her values, lessons, and love to the next generation. Her family remains her foundation, offering her support and inspiration as she continues her work in the humanitarian and business sectors.
Despite her many responsibilities and commitments, Funmi has always maintained a close-knit relationship with her family, finding a balance between her professional endeavours and her personal life. She believes that her family plays a central role in her continued success and happiness, providing her with the strength and resilience to continue her mission of service to others.