Meet Samuel Oladoyinbo, a dynamic Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni who graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of British Columbia (UBC) in May 2023. Samuel’s journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to his current role as a Business Analyst at Deloitte is a testament to his dedication, passion for learning, and drive to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Journey to Becoming a Mastercard Foundation Program Scholar
Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, Samuel was a highly motivated young man with a deep passion for learning and a dream of achieving great things through education. His interest in contributing to the clean energy transition led him to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in 2017.
At UBC, Samuel’s love for mathematics and technology guided him to pursue chemical engineering, a field that perfectly aligned with his interests in the processes driving the energy transition. His time at UBC was transformative, equipping him with the skills and knowledge needed to make significant contributions to the workforce. The rigorous academic environment, combined with the unwavering support from faculty and peers, played a crucial role in his personal and professional development.
Life After Graduation
Upon graduating, Samuel accepted a position at global consulting firm Deloitte as a Business Analyst. In this role, he is gaining valuable insights into how organizations across various sectors navigate their unique challenges and opportunities. His experiences at Deloitte have been instrumental in shaping his professional growth and understanding of the business world.
Samuel’s post-graduation journey has been marked by a series of remarkable achievements and learning experiences. Within less than a year of graduating, Samuel has visited seven new countries in Europe and North America. These travels have broadened his perspective and enriched his understanding of diverse cultures.
Giving Back to the Community
Samuel is passionate about giving back to his community and envisions embarking on an entrepreneurial venture to address specific problems and contribute positively to society.
Managing Stress and Promoting Self-Care
To manage stress, Samuel has adopted a routine of physical exercise, including working out, running, and swimming. These activities help him maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, enabling him to perform at his best both personally and professionally. He successfully ran his first 10-kilometre race in Vancouver, demonstrating his commitment to physical fitness and [reaching] personal goals.
Key Takeaways for Current Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni
Samuel shared his top two pieces of advice for incoming Mastercard Foundation Scholars:
– Trust the Process: Embrace the uncertainties and view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Everyone is still “figuring it out,” so enjoy and trust in the journey.
– Community and Mentorship: Staying connected to your community and having strong mentorship are crucial. These connections provide support, guidance, and valuable insights that can help you navigate your career and personal life effectively.
Stay connected for more inspiring stories from our Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni and their impactful contributions around the globe.