Tola Akerele is a woman whose journey reflects a powerful blend of passion, creativity, and purpose. After years of working in investment banking in London, she made a life-changing decision to return to Nigeria, driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to her home country’s cultural and artistic renaissance. That decision marked the beginning of an inspiring career that has influenced interior design, hospitality, and culinary arts across Nigeria.

A graduate of the Parsons School of Design in New York and the KLC School of Design in London, Tola brought global expertise home with a vision that fused tradition with innovation. She founded iDESIGN by Tola Akerele, a Lagos-based interior design firm that quickly gained acclaim for its use of Afrocentric themes and support for local artisans. Her work has not only transformed residential and commercial spaces but also elevated the visibility of Nigerian craftsmanship on a global scale.

One of Tola’s most celebrated achievements is Bogobiri House, a boutique hotel she co-founded with Chike Nwagbogu. Located in the heart of Lagos, Bogobiri House is more than a hotel—it is a sanctuary for Nigerian art, music, and culture. Hand-carved furniture, original artworks, and live performances make it a vibrant cultural destination for locals and tourists alike. Through this space, Tola has created a living gallery that honors Nigeria’s heritage while providing a platform for emerging talent.

Her love for Nigerian culture also shines through in her culinary venture, The Orishirishi Kitchen. Inspired by her travels across the country and a deep appreciation for local cuisines, Tola launched this farm-to-table restaurant as part of Bogobiri House. It offers a curated menu of authentic Nigerian dishes, celebrating the diversity of flavors across the regions. This culinary journey is also documented in her book, The Orishirishi Cookbook, a rich tribute to Nigeria’s food traditions.

Tola Akerele’s work goes beyond aesthetics. It is about preserving culture, nurturing creativity, and promoting sustainability. Her ability to interweave art, design, hospitality, and food into a cohesive celebration of Nigerian identity makes her a standout figure in the creative industry. For her vision, resilience, and cultural advocacy, we proudly recognize Tola Akerele as our Woman of the Week.