Miracle Olatunji is an inspiring and award-winning young founder and author, helping thousands of young students like herself make an impact through business and entrepreneurship.
Tell us a little about your background and how your company came to be?
When I was in high school, I participated in an incredible youth entrepreneurship program called the Diamond Challenge. Through this program, I started to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and I was able to learn about the problems that were being solved in different parts of the world and meet the innovative people who were creating solutions. I was so inspired by these young entrepreneurs I had met who were working on ventures that made a significant impact on the lives of other people – in their communities and in society.
A few months later, I decided to start OpportuniMe after I realised how time-consuming and stressful the process of searching for summer programs and opportunities was for me and thousands of other young students. Through OpportuniMe hundreds of youth have been connected to opportunities that have enabled them to explore possible careers, build their network, and get a head start on developing their passions and life and leadership skills.
Talk to us about your book, “Purpose: How To Live and Lead With Impact”
Purpose is a book for anyone and everyone who want to make a difference in not only their lives, but in the lives of others, their communities, companies and organisations, and the world. It’s full of inspiring stories and actionable insights for readers of all ages.
My hope is that the book will inspire fellow young women especially to realise that, as Michelle Obama said, there is no limit to what we as women can accomplish. Every single person on this planet has a unique purpose and reason for existence. I want to empower people to realise they have unlimited potential to make an impact in the world.
What has been the hardest thing(s) about starting this venture? How you’ve worked around the challenges?
Initially, it was not having experience starting a business before and not knowing what to do at times. But I soon realised that in order to overcome that, I just needed to keep going and I would learn as I went along. I’m thankful for also having mentors and advisors who give me support and guidance!
What’s been your biggest achievement in life thus far?
Personally, it’s been hearing and seeing that I’ve inspired people to make a difference and to create solutions that positively impact others. Additionally, I’m honoured to have been selected for accolades like Woman To Watch, Youth Entrepreneur Of The Year, and others.
And biggest lesson?
Your world expands when you step out of your comfort zone.
What’s been the funniest moment of your career?
I was speaking on a panel and we had limited time for audience Q&A so when someone asked the final question, myself and the other panelists played “rock, paper, scissors” to decide who would answer it. For some reason (maybe because I hadn’t played in a while), I forgot that “rock” beats “scissors” and began talking before the audience started giggling and I quickly realised that oops- I hadn’t won the game!
Do you have a mentor or people you ask for advice?
Yes!
How has what you do, changed you as a person?
I’ve become an even greater advocate for access to opportunities because I have seen firsthand how even just one opportunity, connection, or resource can change the trajectory of someone’s life!
Tell us a little more about some of the awards you have won.
I was recently honoured as one of this year’s Young Futurists and Change-makers. It’s really exciting to be in the company of fellow leaders who are passionate about making a difference – in business, science, social justice, healthcare, media, fashion, education, technology, and other fields! We have always heard that young people today will be the leaders of the future, but this list reminds me that we don’t have to wait until ‘the future’ to make a difference. We can start now!
What are the top 5 books and blogs on your reading list?
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More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth
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Solid Ground by Sevetri Wilson
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Deep Work by Cal Newport
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Financially Forward by Alexa Von Tobel
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Both Sides Of The Table – entrepreneurship blog
Who or what inspires and motivates you?
One of my biggest role models is Oprah Winfrey. Though I have not met her (yet!), I have learned so much from her life story, and the wisdom she shares with the world. Despite the challenges she has faced in her life, she is grounded in her purpose and has a strong sense of self. I want to follow her lead and empower other women and girls too. Oprah’s inspiring, history-making achievements have opened the doors for those who are coming behind her.
What’s yet to come for you?
I’ve started working on the dates and locations for my book tour. Next year, I’ll be launching a new project and plan to scale my event series focused on education and resources for women to build their net worth, self worth, and network.
Do you have any words of advice?
You’re the CEO of your life. Like a business, your life has many aspects that need to be managed. The choices you make are important to getting you closer to your goals. Invest in yourself by reading, taking courses to sharpen both your soft and technical skills, and prioritising your health.
What is your motto?
Live a life of purpose, passion, and persistence.
If money and time were no object, what would be on your to-do and to-see list?
I would love to visit the 7 wonders of the world!
I also love fashion and would like to start a clothing line or be in a fashion show.
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