Suggestions
Olamide Ejorh
Executive Director at Lagos Urban Development Initiative
Professional Background
Olamide Udoma - Ejorh is a dynamic Urban Activist recognized for her multifaceted role as a project manager, researcher, filmmaker, and writer. With a growing commitment to advancing governance and addressing social issues within the urban landscape of Lagos, she has become a pivotal figure in the advocacy for sustainable transportation and social engagement in urban environments. Over the past six years, Olamide has expertly managed and coordinated a series of impactful projects across the UK, South Africa, and Nigeria, collaborating with various clients and stakeholders to ensure that urban planning is inherently participatory from conception all the way through to maintenance.
Her rich array of experiences has equipped Olamide with unique insights and expertise in urban development, enabling her to address complex urban governance challenges. Olamide's professional journey has been deeply intertwined with a passion for improving the quality of life in urban settings, leveraging her skills to promote inclusivity and participation in city planning.
Education and Achievements
Olamide's academic credentials underpin her professional achievements and reflect her unwavering commitment to the field of urban studies and design. She holds an MPhil in Urban Infrastructure Management and Design from the esteemed University of Cape Town, where she honed her understanding of the intricacies of urban systems and their management. Additionally, she earned a Master’s degree in Design from the University of the Arts London, further solidifying her foundation in design principles and their application to urban environments. Olamide also holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from University College London, U. of London, which provided her with critical insights into architectural design and planning.
Throughout her academic journey, Olamide has been recognized for her contributions, both in scholarships and in participatory projects that engage communities in urban planning initiatives. Her scholarly background complements her activism, as she consistently translates theoretical knowledge into practical solutions within urban contexts.
Career Highlights and Positions Held
Olamide currently serves as the Executive Director at the Lagos Urban Development Initiative, a position that allows her to advocate for progressive urban policies and practices that address the needs of Lagos's diverse population. In this role, she leads various initiatives designed to foster sustainable urban development through consultations and participatory methodologies.
Before her current leadership role, Olamide was the Editor In Chief of LIL Magazine at Lost In Lagos and Knock Knock Lifestyle Solutions Ltd, where she curated content that resonated with the urban culture and lifestyle of Lagos residents. This position enabled her to engage with the community creatively, exploring urban narratives through the lens of multimedia.
Olamide's entrepreneurial spirit is demonstrated by her role as the Co-Founder of Film Sundays, a project that brings together filmmakers and audiences to celebrate and promote Nigerian cinema. Her strategic vision was instrumental in crafting a platform that showcases diverse storytellers and fosters cultural exchange.
Her involvement with UN Habitat's Global Future Cities Programme as the Local City Specialist for Lagos further illustrates her expertise in urban policy and planning on an international scale. Olamide's work as the Operations Manager and Campaign Manager at Lost In Lagos allowed her to develop campaigns that effectively communicate urban issues and engage stakeholders in meaningful conversations.
In previous roles such as Project Manager at Co-creation Hub Nigeria and Eirenicon Africa, Olamide demonstrated her project management abilities, overseeing implementations that prioritize community engagement and innovation in urban solutions. As the Project Coordinator at Nsibidi Institute, she played a key role in cultural initiatives that highlight the significance of heritage in urban development.
Olamide also served as the Future Lagos Director at Our Future Cities, taking a leadership position in initiatives aimed at shaping the future of Lagos through strategic visioning and community-driven projects. Her tenure as Project Officer for the Right to Housing at Social and Economic Rights Action Center (SERAC) enabled her to advocate for housing rights and engage with communities on critical social issues.
Earlier in her career, Olamide gained valuable experience through internships and volunteer positions, including working with the World Bank on the Lagos Metropolitan Development & Governmental Project. These foundational experiences enriched her understanding of urban systems and the importance of holistic development strategies.
Conclusion
In a world where urban environments face unprecedented challenges, Olamide Udoma - Ejorh stands out as a passionate advocate and skilled professional dedicated to redefining urban development. With her comprehensive education background in architecture, design, and urban infrastructure management, along with a career marked by varied leadership roles and collaborations, Olamide is making significant strides in promoting sustainable practices in urban planning and governance.
