Leading with Purpose: An Interview with Our New Executive Director, Afolabi Aiyela

As our organization ushers in a new era, we’re thrilled to introduce Afolabi Aiyela, our new Executive Director for TIERs. In this exclusive interview, we delve into their insights, aspirations, and innovative perspectives

Join us as we uncover the vision, strategies, and goals that he brings to our organization. This candid conversation reveals the passion, experience, and commitment our new leader embodies, shaping a narrative of empowerment, growth, and collective achievement.

Discover the inspiring journey ahead as we sit down with him to explore their leadership philosophy, plans for the organization, and the collaborative spirit that will drive us forward.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and experience in the NGO and Human Rights Space?

In my prior positions, I led corporate communications, PR, and branding initiatives, successfully communicating the identity and values of the non-profit. I focused on cultivating collaborations and networks within the health and business sectors, playing a vital role in promoting the non-profit’s mission to improve healthcare in Nigeria through strategic partnerships with the private sector. Through collaboration with government agencies, businesses, and civil society organizations, we tackled healthcare challenges and implemented lasting changes, particularly with the revitalization of primary healthcare centers across various local government areas in Nigeria.

What attracted you to join our organization as the new Executive Director?

Over time, I’ve witnessed the impactful efforts and progress made by the Initiative for Equal Rights in advancing equality for all Nigerians, regardless of their sexual preference and gender identity. I aspire to contribute to the movement advocating for the safety and rights that haven’t been freely granted, aiming to foster a space where everyone feels safe, seen, and liberated.

What do you hope to achieve during your tenure as Executive Director?

I am deeply committed to overturning the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act established in 2014. Achieving this goal is a formidable task, as it requires necessitating the cultivation of allies through strategic information dissemination via effective communication channels to continue to change perception. It’s crucial to help the public comprehend that sexual orientation and gender identity are not choices and should not be stigmatized. The focus is on safeguarding the rights and freedoms of every member within the LGBTQ+ community.

What guiding principles or philosophies do you bring to your role as a leader?

As the leader of an LGBTQ+ Non For profit, my guiding principles center around inclusivity, advocacy, and empowerment. I believe in fostering a diverse and supportive environment that embraces the unique experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. Advocacy for equal rights and representation is paramount, striving to amplify marginalized voices and challenge discriminatory practices. Additionally, empowerment is a key philosophy, aiming to provide resources and opportunities that enable individuals to thrive while promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding.

What do you see as the main challenges and opportunities facing the organization in the coming years?

Beyond facing challenges rooted in cultural, religious, and societal norms like homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and heteronormativity, which demand ongoing destigmatization efforts through strategic information sharing, we anticipate obstacles in repealing the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (SAMPA). True freedom for the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria hinges on overcoming this legal barrier. Fortunately, changing perceptions and gaining allies over the years indicate a positive shift. As more people recognize our shared humanity, the hope is that laws will evolve to grant us the freedom to live and love, just like anyone else.

How do you plan to address these challenges and leverage the opportunities?

To address these challenges, especially in Nigeria, our comprehensive strategy includes educational campaigns aimed at dispelling myths. We also aim to engage policymakers in advocacy efforts, focusing on repealing discriminatory policies and establishing inclusive ones. We will prioritize community building to create safe spaces and collaborate with domestic and international organizations, as well as the media to promote positive LGBTQ+ representations. We will engage in legal advocacy targeting discriminatory laws, and cultural sensitivity initiatives aimed to educate communities. Additionally, we plan to leverage opportunities through partnerships and social media. Our integrated approach aims to foster a more inclusive and accepting environment for the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria.

How do you envision building and strengthening relationships with our community or stakeholders?

By fostering a safe heaven where members of the community feel seen, safe, informed, protected and free to be themselves.
By also fostering and strengthening the bond with community stakeholders through necessary activity involvement, strategic visibility and transparency.

What steps will you take to ensure transparent communication and engagement with our stakeholders?

As earlier stated, we plan to create avenues for strategic engagement where progress can be seen and felt. We plan to make progress reporting more timely, and frequent to keep stakeholders and the community informed on the progress being made.

How do you plan to drive innovation and foster growth within the organization?

We will drive innovation and growth by fostering a creative culture, encouraging team input, and experimenting with new ideas. Continuous training keeps us updated on industry trends, and we value collaborations for diverse perspectives. Embracing tech enhances efficiency, and regular feedback guides us in refining strategies for sustained growth. It’s all about an integrated approach to innovation within our organization, moving forward.

Are there any innovative strategies or projects you’re excited to implement?

I’m intrigued to explore the possibilities in ensuring the accessibility of hormones for transgender individuals. This involves delving into initiatives that focus on making hormone therapies readily available, addressing potential challenges in affordability, awareness, and healthcare inclusivity. By examining and potentially redefining existing frameworks, we aim to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for transgender individuals seeking hormonal interventions.

Can you share a personal anecdote or experience that has shaped your leadership approach?

In my years of leading various teams, I’ve come to understand that leadership is a blend of techniques aimed at motivating and inspiring people to excel in their tasks while also ensuring they feel supported and capable. It involves patience and requires the leader to take on roles such as a teacher, psychologist, and sometimes even a friend. Leading demands courage, as everyone looks to you for guidance, requiring you to either possess the answers or be humble enough to seek input from team members. Balancing fairness, objectivity, intelligence, and intuition is crucial, all while maintaining a demeanor of calm and resilience. These qualities are often gained through experiential learning and embracing the role of a leader by first being a follower.

What motivates and inspires you in your role as a leader?

I get to harness the excellence of the people that look up to me for leadership. I get to build their capacity and capabilities so they find the confidence in themselves to do the impossible. I also get to be a student and a sponge, gaining new and innovative tricks to the trade from team mates.
I get to maintain and even raise standards by making sure things work out on time and in an excellent manner.

Is there anything else you would like to share with our community or team members?

I aim to make TIERS a beacon of hope for the LGBTQ+ community especially in Nigeria. A place where community members can run to for help, for information, for hope and for solace. These things are possible and will be done.

Any final message or words of encouragement for the staff, volunteers, or community members?

The current staff of TIERS as well as volunteers have all done outstanding work in getting our community steps closer to true freedom. It has taken sleepless nights and countless hours or advocacy to get to this point. I pledge not to let the team and community down as I aim to continue the work to true freedom and with the help of team TIERS, the sky will be the starting point. I look forward to the victories ahead.