A new beginning for Omoboriowo

Thursday, September 29, 2016, will forever remain memorable as the day young and energetic photographer, Bayo Omoboriowo, fondly known as Bold Bayo, brought together dignitaries from across Nigeria to the launch of his book, A New Beginning, which he dedicated to President Muhammad Buhari.

Bold Bayo’s leap to Aso Rock, as president Buhari’s official photographer, is amazing, though not a surprise. It is a great delight to see the young man is living his dream, capturing Mr. President on his lens.

Back in 2006, at the end of Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli’s Leap Africa Youth leadership training program, each member of the Silver stars set was charged to coin an adjectival name that best describe them individually. Many coined different names. There was ‘Tall Tayo’ (Temitayo Aladebo Ajayi), ‘Nice Nsima’ (Nsima Ndifreke), ‘Outstanding Omololu’ (David Omololu Aiyeola) and Super Segun (Segun Oluwaleti). For young Bayo Omoboriowo, it was ‘Bold Bayo.’ Since then, Bayo has been taking bold steps where others dread.

However, it seem Bayo had got boldness embedded in him from the outset. He was among the first set of people (in the silver stars set) to launch his change project within his local community aimed at motivating youngsters. Few years later, the young man started his photography career, while studying at the University of Lagos.

Though not a rosy beginning, passionate Bayo forged ahead in the university community filled with numerous minds living fake lifestyle. He wasn’t ashamed, as he gripped his camera and called out for patronage under trees beside Jaja Hall (frontage of Unilag Staff School), creaming, “passport, passport,passport…” It’s all history today.

His nomination and eventual award for the Future Awards was not a surprise as well. Yes, bold Bayo was bold to take his passion further. Many would remember Bayo’s commitment as a Christian back in the University (Lagos Varsity Christian Union-LVCU members will bear witness). Those close to him or those that remember him can trace his career path to his passion for things of God. Yes, that’s what you get when you obey God and do his will. For Bayo, it’s about seeking first the kingdom of God… every other thing will be added to you.

Bayo Omoboriowo is an example of what it means to live your dream. Hardwork doesn’t kill-it will only make you a better person. Despite his busy day-to-day schedule, as President Buhari official photographer, he is never too busy to impact and give to back to upcoming documentary photographers. His Unabashed Lagos mentoring platform has been another successful project. From the maiden oversubscribed Lagos edition, the Unabashed wind has been felt in Ogun, Abuja, Oyo, Osun, Kwara and Kaduna.

Sometimes, we are inspired by people of great achievements and try to become like them, but missing the lesson to become who we really are. To all those still grinding hard, don’t give up on your dreams. Find yourself (in God. Yes, God factor is extremely important) and keep grinding, having strong faith your moment will come. Regardless of scale, the essence of life is making positive impacts.

It’s not about amassing wealth and riches to yourself; service to God is an essential ingredient for success. Humility is key is life. And don’t ever underestimate anyone. Bayo is humble and down to earth. Networking is very important! For Bayo, the Leap Africa and future awards platform paved way for him. Never burn any bridge; he paid his dues forward and he is reaping fruits. As he turns 30, we celebrate and wish him greater heights in his career path. Bold Bayo, you are indeed an inspiration.