Teaching is more than just a profession. It is a calling, a family tradition for some. This is Oki-Balogun's life as an education entrepreneur. Her path to teaching and learning was not so much a process of searching for a profession but a lifetime's work driven by her family, experience, and desire to make a difference.

A Family Built on Learning

Oki-Balogun was raised in a family of educators, so it seemed her destiny was sealed. Her mother, Chief (Mrs.) Omotunde Lawson was a teacher and later a principal in Lagos State. She retired as a Director of Lagos State Education. Her two grandmothers were teachers, too. Since her parents were very concerned about education, they opened a school using resources that her grandmother had left behind.

Unlike most children who spent their holidays on vacation, Oki-Balogun was working in school from the age of 13.

"While my friends were enjoying summer vacations, I was in schools helping, assisting teachers, and even teaching at times," she remembers. That early exposure made her realize how education molds a child's self-esteem and future.

Having seen government school students struggle, she was eager to develop a low-cost but quality learning system.

From Banking to Education: A Strategic Shift

Before turning fully to education, Oki-Balogun explored banking, she joined GTBank's training school directly from the University of Lagos. The competitive world requires discipline, excellence, and determination. Under the supervision of the crème de la crème, she developed strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

"GTBank was demanding and required a lot, but it was also one of the best places to learn," she says. "Nine years on, I had corporate training but wanted to make a difference."

With a desire to contribute, she went on to study for a Master's in Public Administration at Queen Mary University of London and subsequently a Master's in Education and International Development at UCL's Institute of Education. Through these, she gained a deeper understanding of education systems globally and new education technologies.

The Genesis of Naijatutors

In lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, Oki-Balogun needed help with her daughter's homework but was unable to easily find in-person tutors. Drawing on her experience, she went to her family school to ask for tutors to help her, as well as her friends.

"I soon discovered how competent Nigerian tutors were. Their great grasp, methodical style, and discipline were the best," she explains. From a modest idea, it evolved into Naijatutors—an education technology platform that brings Nigerian tutors and students from all over the world together.

Naijatutors delivers top-notch, affordable tutoring while equipping Nigerian educators with the option of teaching on an international scale. The platform positions Nigeria in the international sphere as a provider of quality educators.

Challenges and Advances

It was difficult building Naijatutors. Without a first business plan or definite tech strategy, Oki-Balogun had numerous issues, from deciding on the correct technology for expansion.

“It took three years to obtain the appropriate technology," she explains. "Naijatutors' progress entailed numerous adjustments and improvements."

Listening to parents and tutors was essential in the development of the platform. From tutor training to scalability, all aspects were refined to provide quality. As an education entrepreneur, she concentrated on empowering Nigerian educators with international teaching strategies to compete at global standards.

A Vision for the Future

Despite the advancements made, Oki-Balogun is committed to revolutionizing Naijatutors so that it remains at the top of virtual learning globally.

“We are learning and developing every day,” she continues. "Our mission is to continue innovating new concepts and showcasing Nigerian teachers' influence across the globe."

Her life is an example of courage, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to creating a positive impact. She comes from a family of educators, worked in business, went to college, and founded an edtech platform. Oki-Balogun's life is an inspiration to individuals who aspire to be entrepreneurs and teachers. To her, however, education is not just teaching—it is life-changing, gap-closing, and opportunity-making for generations to come.