FROM ASPIRATIONS TO ACHIEVEMENTS: THE JOURNEY OF OLUWASEYI GABRIEL OGUNDARE
FROM ASPIRATIONS TO ACHIEVEMENTS: THE JOURNEY OF OLUWASEYI GABRIEL OGUNDARE
By: Olanrewaju Ayo
Like the biblical mustard seed, Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare came into existence over three decades ago, embodying a glimpse of hope and the absolute joy that followed his birth. Born into a world filled with promise, his early years were marked by the nurturing love and guidance of his family. The seeds of his future accomplishments were planted in these formative years, setting the stage for a life characterized by growth, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare’s journey began in the prestigious family of Prince Ogundare and Mrs. Olufowose in Imoru, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Imoru is a Yoruba-speaking community located in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria, with a population of about five thousand people. Primarily an agrarian society, the residents of Imoru are mostly engaged in farming, while a smaller number pursue occupations such as trading, teaching, and artisanship. The community has also become a melting pot of cultures, with ethnic groups like the Igbo, Urhobo, Idoma, and Kwale settling in the area and contributing to the growth and diversity of the kingdom.
Culturally, Imoru is a blend of Yoruba and Edo influences. While the people typically dress in traditional Yoruba attire, many of their festivals, songs, and music have Edo origins. Despite these traditional roots, Imoru has embraced modern religious practices, with Christianity and Islam being the predominant faiths. The town is home to several churches and mosques, reflecting the community’s adaptation to contemporary religious landscapes while maintaining its rich cultural heritage.
This esteemed lineage provided a strong foundation for Oluwaseyi’s upbringing, instilling in him the values of integrity, perseverance, and a deep sense of responsibility. Growing up in such a supportive environment, Oluwaseyi was encouraged to pursue his dreams and aspirations, armed with the confidence that comes from a morally sound family heritage.
As he navigated the various stages of his life, Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare’s accomplishments began to mirror the potential seen in him from birth. His educational pursuits, professional achievements, and personal milestones are a testament to his dedication and hard work. Each success not only honored his family’s legacy but also contributed to the broader community, reflecting the profound impact one individual can have when nurtured with love, respect, and a solid moral compass. Through his journey, Oluwaseyi has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, much like the mustard seed that grows into a magnificent tree, providing shelter and sustenance to many.
Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare, though not born with a silver spoon, exemplifies the power of dedication and hard work in transforming one’s circumstances. From his humble beginnings, he understood early on that success would not be handed to him. Embracing the challenges of his environment, Oluwaseyi developed a relentless work ethic and a resilient spirit. His journey was marked by a commitment to education and personal development, recognizing these as vital tools for breaking free from the limitations of his socioeconomic background.
Through perseverance and a clear vision for his future, Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare steadily climbed the ladder of success. Each step was a testament to his unwavering determination and belief in his potential. His achievements are not just personal milestones but serve as an inspiration to many who face similar challenges. By earning his own proverbial silver spoon, Oluwaseyi has demonstrated that with grit and perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness. His story is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by where one starts, but by the tenacity and effort invested in the journey.
Foundations of Excellence: Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare’s Educational Journey
Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare, a man whose journey is rooted in faith, hope, and the promise of a better tomorrow, began his educational path at New Church Primary School in Arimogija, Ose Local Government, Ondo State. His early education continued at Ijagba/Imoru Comprehensive High School, then to Imade College, Owo, where he laid the foundation for his academic pursuits. Demonstrating a commitment to excellence from a young age, Oluwaseyi transitioned to Lagos State Baptist Academy, where he completed his secondary education and successfully attained his O’level qualifications. This period marked the beginning of his relentless quest for knowledge and personal growth.
Driven by a desire for higher education and professional advancement, Oluwaseyi set his sights on the United States. He enrolled at the University of Maryland Global Campus, where he pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Information and Computer Networks and Cybersecurity. This choice reflected his keen interest in the rapidly evolving field of technology and his determination to equip himself with the skills necessary to thrive in a digital world. Oluwaseyi’s time at the university was characterized by rigorous study and an unwavering focus on his academic and professional goals.
Oluwaseyi’s passion for education did not wane after his undergraduate studies. Recognizing the importance of continuous learning and specialization, he embarked on a Master’s degree in Information Technology, majoring in Project Management, which he completed in 2021. This advanced degree not only expanded his technical expertise but also honed his leadership and management skills, preparing him for complex projects and roles in the technology sector. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and his belief in the transformative power of education.
Throughout his educational journey, Oluwaseyi’s faith and hope remained his guiding principles. These values, instilled in him from a young age, provided the strength and resilience needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. His story is one of perseverance and ambition, illustrating how a strong educational foundation and a clear vision for the future can lead to significant personal and professional achievements. Oluwaseyi’s accomplishments serve as an inspiration to many young people, who sees him as a mentor, showing that with determination and hard work, one can transcend their beginnings and achieve greatness.
Today, Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare stands as a beacon of success and a role model for aspiring students and professionals. His journey from Imoru, a town in the far Northern end of Ondo State to the halls of higher learning in the United States underscores his commitment, vision and passion for education, and the limitless possibilities it can unlock. As he continues to build on his achievements, Oluwaseyi remains committed to the values of faith, hope, and the pursuit of excellence, continually striving to make a positive impact in his field and beyond.
Professional Odyssey: Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare’s Remarkable Career in IT
Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare is a seasoned IT professional whose career spans over a decade, marked by significant contributions in Linux administration and DevOps engineering. With more than ten years of experience in these fields, Oluwaseyi has honed his skills to become an expert in managing and optimizing Linux/UNIX operating systems across multiple platforms. Additionally, his three years of experience as a JAVA J2EE and J2SE developer further illustrate his versatility and deep understanding of various technological domains.
Oluwaseyi’s professional journey began at the American Psychological Association in Washington, DC, where he worked as a Linux and Network System Engineer from 2014 to 2015. This role provided him with the opportunity to apply his technical knowledge in a real-world setting, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. His ability to manage complex systems and ensure their seamless operation highlighted his potential and set the stage for subsequent positions.
In 2015, Oluwaseyi joined the United States Department of Commerce in Washington, DC, as an Enterprise System Engineer. During his tenure, which lasted until 2016, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the department’s technological infrastructure. His expertise in enterprise systems engineering allowed him to streamline processes and improve overall efficiency. This experience was instrumental in shaping his approach to large-scale IT projects and reinforced his reputation as a reliable and skilled engineer.
From 2016 to 2018, Oluwaseyi served as the Server Automation Engineer-Puppet Development Technical Lead at the US Food and Drug Administration in Maryland. In this role, he led efforts to automate server operations, significantly reducing manual intervention and enhancing system reliability. His leadership in Puppet development was particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrated his ability to drive innovation and implement cutting-edge solutions. His contributions were crucial in ensuring the FDA’s technological robustness and operational excellence.
Oluwaseyi’s career continued to ascend as he took on the role of Principal Cloud DevOps Engineer at Oracle America in Maryland from 2018 to 2019. He then became the Lead Linux and DevOps Engineer at Total Wine & More between 2019 and 2020. His expertise in cloud technologies and DevOps practices positioned him as a key player in these organizations, where he spearheaded initiatives to modernize and optimize IT operations. From 2020 to 2023, he served as the Sr. DevOps and Cloud Engineering Manager at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA, where he managed complex cloud environments and led strategic projects to enhance the institution’s technological capabilities.
Currently, Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare leverages his extensive experience and technical prowess as a consultant with Microsoft Corporation, the United States Department of State, and the United States Social Security Administration. In these roles, he continues to drive innovation and deliver high-impact solutions, solidifying his status as a leader in the IT industry. His professional adventure is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing technology and improving systems worldwide.
Oluwaseyi Ogundare: A Beacon of Hope in Community Service and Philanthropy
Oluwaseyi Ogundare is more than just an accomplished IT professional; he is a philanthropist and community development advocate dedicated to making a significant impact in the lives of the less privileged. As the Founder and Chairman of The Ogundare’s Foundation (TOF), a non-profit organization, he has channelled his compassion into meaningful actions. The foundation’s core vision, “creating a world that is not just about You and Me but US, not just what is Yours and Mine but OURS,” underscores Ogundare’s commitment to fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective progress.
The Ogundare’s Foundation (TOF) is firmly aligned with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically targeting the eradication of poverty (Goal 1), the provision of quality education (Goal 4), and the promotion of innovation, industry, and infrastructure (Goal 9). Through various initiatives, the foundation aims to address critical issues affecting local communities, thereby creating a sustainable and inclusive environment for all. Ogundare’s philanthropic endeavors are a testament to his dedication to these global objectives, translating lofty ideals into tangible outcomes.
One of the significant accomplishments of The Ogundare’s Foundation is the construction of six blocks of classrooms at Ijagba/Imoru Comprehensive High School in Ose Local Government. This project not only provided a conducive learning environment for students but also demonstrated Ogundare’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure. By investing in the education of future generations, he is helping to lay a strong foundation for sustainable community development.
In addition to improving educational facilities, Ogundare has also addressed critical infrastructure needs in various communities. For instance, his foundation facilitated the rehabilitation and reconnection of a damaged transformer in Ifon, Ose Local Government. This project restored electricity to the area, significantly improving the quality of life for residents and enabling local businesses to operate more efficiently. Such initiatives highlight Oluwaseyi’s holistic approach to community development, addressing both immediate needs and long-term sustainability.
The “Back to School” project is another notable initiative spearheaded by OGO (fondly called by admirers). In response to the tragic Owo Massacre, this project provided full educational scholarships to the children of the victims, ensuring that they could continue their education uninterrupted from their current class through to tertiary education. The project was embarked on in the first year until the State government took over the responsibilities of the children. This compassionate gesture not only offered financial support but also provided a sense of hope and stability to families affected by the tragedy.
Furthermore, Ogundare has awarded scholarships to numerous indigenes of Ose Local Government, supporting their educational pursuits and empowering them to achieve their academic and professional goals. These scholarships are a lifeline for many students, enabling them to overcome financial barriers and access quality education. By investing in human capital, Ogundare is fostering a new generation of leaders and professionals who will contribute to the community’s growth and development.
Water scarcity is a critical issue in many parts of Nigeria, and OGO has tackled this problem head-on by constructing boreholes in various communities across Owo and Ose Local Government. These boreholes provide reliable access to clean water, improving public health and reducing the time and effort required to fetch water. This initiative is a vital step towards achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents.
Recognizing the needs of the elderly and less privileged, The Ogundare’s Foundation (TOF) has also implemented a program that provides monthly stipends to the aged and vulnerable groups in selected communities of Ose Local Government. This financial assistance helps to alleviate the hardships faced by these individuals, ensuring they can meet their basic needs and live with dignity. This program reflects Oluwaseyi’s deep empathy and unwavering commitment to social welfare.
In addition to these initiatives, The Ogundare’s Foundation has supported the student populace of Owo/Ose by providing notebooks through their student associations. This seemingly small gesture has a significant impact, equipping students with the necessary resources to succeed academically. By easing the financial burden on families, Ogundare is making education more accessible and fostering a culture of learning and academic excellence.
Through his involvement in community service and philanthropic gestures, Oluwaseyi Ogundare has made a profound difference in the lives of many. His work through The Ogundare’s Foundation embodies the spirit of selflessness and collective progress, striving to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Ogundare’s dedication to improving education, infrastructure, and social welfare in his community is a powerful example of how one individual can drive positive change and inspire others to do the same.
Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare, widely known as OGO, ventured into the political arena in response to the call of his constituents, driven by a deep-seated passion to make a tangible difference. His entry into politics was not just a career move but a response to a community’s need for a dedicated and passionate advocate. With a focus on grassroots politics, OGO’s approach has always been centered on understanding and addressing the needs of the people at the local level. His dedication to public service and social change is evident in his commitment to fostering community development and improving the lives of individuals, particularly those in marginalized groups.
In his political journey, in 2023, Ogundare contested as a Member of the House of Representatives for the Owo/Ose federal constituency of Ondo State. This move was a testament to his belief in participatory governance and his desire to bring about significant changes within his community. Although he faced numerous challenges, his campaign was marked by a steadfast commitment to addressing key issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. His candidacy was seen as a beacon of hope for many constituents who yearned for a representative that truly understood and represented their interests.
Currently, Ogundare is a card-carrying member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), aligning himself with a party that shares his vision for progressive change and development. His involvement with the APC has allowed him to engage more deeply with the political process. Ogundare’s affiliation with the ruling party has provided him with a platform to advocate for policies and initiatives that align with his goals of social equity and community upliftment.
Beyond his own political aspirations, Ogundare has played a significant role in supporting other key political figures within his party. He has been actively involved in the re-election campaign of Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the governor of Ondo State, for the upcoming 2024 governorship election. His involvement in this campaign underscores his strategic importance within the APC and his commitment to ensuring that effective leadership continues in Ondo State. Through his efforts, Ogundare has demonstrated his ability to mobilize support, strategize effectively, and contribute to the broader political discourse.
Ogundare’s political journey is characterized by a blend of passion, dedication, and strategic thinking. His grassroots approach to politics ensures that he remains connected to the needs and aspirations of his constituents. Whether through his own campaigns or his support for other leaders, Ogundare’s influence is felt across Ondo State. His unwavering commitment to social change and community development positions him as a key player in the political landscape, dedicated to making a positive impact on his local community, the state, and the nation at large.
