FROM "BABY AMBASSADOR" TO TEAM LEAD - ADEOLU'S STORY

ADEOLU ADEBAMBO, CHESS TEAM LEAD (2024-2025)

My name is Adeolu Adebambo, and I am the “baby ambassador” who became the Chess Team Lead, a surprising journey, even to me. I am the first son of the Adebambo family, brother to an older sister and two younger brothers. My hobbies include cooking, watching anime, games and recently reading. And in the future food tours. My interests are wide; from travels, food, languages, people, did I say food?, and learning (kinda cliche, I know).

I'm an acolyte on a journey of knowledge and I studied Economics at the University of Ilorin, a field that constantly deepens my curiosity and complements my desire to keep learning. I first heard about the Unilorin Cowrywise Ambassador Community when I came across an application link on a friend’s status. At that point, I realized that joining communities could be vital for self-improvement and networking. So I asked some questions, applied, and became a part of the community.

Becoming a part of the Unilorin Cowrywise community opened doors to remarkable people, unique characters, experts, and aspiring experts in their various fields. I gained access to opportunities exclusive to members, connected with individuals beyond the Unilorin community, attended seminars, and found countless ways to improve myself.

Although I joined shortly after completing my 300 level and I was one of the “baby ambassadors,” it didn’t stop me from taking on responsibility. My love for chess motivated me to take on the role of Chess Team Lead when the opportunity presented itself. To be honest, I didn’t step into the role with grand ambitions. I loved chess, the slot was open and I decided to give it a try.

At first, doubts clouded my mind: “Am I worthy?” “How will I manage a team? Their activities, their morale, and their interests?” “Am I even good enough at chess?” Taking on the responsibility was not as easy as it looked, but in hindsight, it was worth it.

One of the highlights of my time as Team Lead was the event we called “Chill n’ Checkmate.” While the event itself was memorable, the planning process was even more exciting. The event was designed to celebrate chess within the Cowrywise Community, it gave members the opportunity to test their skills against strong players while learning and growing from the experience. More importantly, it helped community members to develop soft skills like communication, teamwork, collaboration, and event planning.

Interestingly, a course I took in my 400 level, ECN 405 (Project Evaluation), taught me the theory of project management. I thought to myself "I am equipped with knowledge to successfully manage a project”. Little did I know that the actual process of budgeting, planning, drafting proposals, leading meetings, dealing with concerns and inactivity, and sourcing for funds was a true rollercoaster. It was demanding, exhausting, but ultimately exhilarating. Most of all, it gave me a practical perspective on what I had only learned in theory.

Looking back, I am grateful to everyone who gave life to the chess club. My deepest thanks goes not to the stragglers but to those who chose to love chess: those who played, learned, and showed up. You gave me space to grow as a leader, a teammate, and as a person. There is always room for growth, but I can say I achieved far more than I imagined, perhaps 150% of my ability to lead, to build and to teach.

In the end, I walk away not just as Adeolu Adebambo, Chess Team Lead, but as someone more confident, more curious, and more committed to learning. These lessons will stay with me far beyond the university walls. For that, I thank my team, the community, and Cowrywise for giving me the platform to grow. Hontoni arigato gozaimasu(thank you very much).

Interviewed by Righteous Olayinka

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