In a remarkable commitment to youth development, Comrade Akinbode Oluwasegun Olakolupo, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Osun State Chapter, delivered a powerful keynote address at the BrandThrive 2025 event held on Thursday, 15th May 2025, at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Themed "Unlocking Your Potential: Navigating Identity, Purpose, and Impact in a Dynamic World," the event was organized by the Office of the General Secretary and brought together a cross-section of students, youth leaders, and emerging changemakers.
Comrade Akinbode passionately urged young people to embrace their individuality, discover their purpose, and strive for meaningful impact. “You are you, and no one else can be you,” he declared, as he challenged participants to live intentionally and authentically. He emphasized that identity forms the foundation for leadership and urged the audience to avoid losing themselves in a world that often rewards conformity over originality.
He went on to outline five core principles essential for unlocking potential and creating lasting impact: vision, discipline, consistency, positive relationships, and integrity. According to him, vision gives direction, discipline sustains growth, and consistency turns effort into results. He further emphasized the value of building strong networks and maintaining faith and integrity as guiding lights in leadership and personal development.
Comrade Akinbode was accompanied by a dedicated team of youth advocates and council members, including Comrade Taye Mathew Abdulahi, Popoola Kabiru, Opeyemi Temilade Adeoye, and Tomilola Fajimi. Their presence at the event underscored the unity and shared vision of the Osun State Youth Council in championing the development of young people across the state.
In recognition of his outstanding service to youth empowerment and leadership excellence, Comrade Akinbode was honored with an Award of Excellence by the event organizers. The BrandThrive 2025 event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among attendees, with his message resonating as both a source of inspiration and a clarion call to lead boldly, live purposefully, and transform communities through values-driven leadership.