Olufemi Titus Oluyomi: Empowering Communities Through Tech Volunteering

In a small community hall outside Lagos, the projector comes to life. A network diagram appears on a dark background as light shines through a window. The space is full of excited students. Some people learn new things at universities, some want better jobs, and some are starting their careers. One thing unites them all. They are here to learn. Rather than a celebrity or politician, the man before them is a seasoned expert from the world of finance. He is known as Olufemi Titus Oluyomi.

Olufemi provides high-level expertise in the areas of network core and security. His days are spent managing the systems that support the finances of the company. Outside his work with the company, his passion lies in another significant area. He spends his time and skills teaching technology to those who want to learn.

Over the past 3 years, Olufemi has been organizing workshops and training sessions during his evenings and weekends. He hopes to make the field of network and cybersecurity accessible to people who may not have the knowledge. These classes include discussions on various technical topics. He covers SD-WAN architecture, advanced threat defense, VPN setup, routing, switching, network planning, performance assessment, access control, and other related topics. He explains things in a manner that is clear to everyone. His passion is evident. So is his patience.

The group that he is addressing is junior associates working in financial and tech firms. There is also a focus on helping young people from less privileged areas and adults interested in a tech career. He builds an environment where people who want to learn can feel at home. No tuition fees. No entry barriers. Just curiosity and commitment.

He notes that his training and mentorship became active in mid-2020, at the earlier stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Teaching was something he passionately cared about. Yet, during this global period of doubt, he realized the importance of telling people about his knowledge. He states that knowledge needs to be shared. It should be handed down. Especially in times of crisis.

He is more skilled than a simple painter. He operates in the background to bring about improvement. His regular engagement with the local community is helping to produce a group of well-trained individuals ready for the new digital reality. He is not only training students in skills and techniques. He is building confidence. He is creating opportunities.

Volunteering is central to the health of any community. Sometimes, it addresses matters that are not included in formal systems. It supports professionals in making valuable contributions. It strengthens community ties. In technology, where information is often challenging to access, relying on volunteers helps reduce the gap between those with and without access.

Olufemi’s achievements are not notable for big actions or flashy business initiatives. It tells the tale of what happens when someone chooses to take action. Setting aside time to help people. Taking actions that go further than what is expected by his position. Thus, he helps build a better community by developing the next generation. Essentially, this is what true leadership is about.