Olakinto's Life Story
Mrs. Olakinto Olarenweju Olaoye (Nee Adesigbin) was born on the 6th of August 1963 in Lagos, Nigeria into the family of Chief Akinola Adio Adesigbin and Chief Mrs Adebisi Adesigbin. She spent her early years in Lagos before moving to the United Kingdom at 19.
Olakinto started her academic journey at Maryland Convent Primary School, then attended the Lagos African Church Grammar School, Ifako followed by Gbagada Girls Secondary Grammar School, Bariga (now Eva Adelaja Girls School). For higher education, she attended Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta) where she studied Mass Communication. She later relocated to the United Kingdom, where she attended St Aldgate's College in Oxford and Wolverhampton College before studying Law at London Guildhall University (now London Metropolitan University).
Olakinto was a devoted Christian who gave her life to Christ at 10. In her early years in the United Kingdom, she was notably a dedicated member of Angel Parish. The rst UK Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) parish, where she served in multiple ministries. She lent her service to the Children & Young People's ministry as well as the Good Women's Fellowship. Over the years, she supported many pastors in their ministries and helped to plant new parishes all over London. Olakinto's passion for her faith was seen and felt by many, not only in word but in deed.
Olakinto began her legal career in the United Kingdom, after graduating from London Guildhall University (now London Metropolitan University). She worked in many Housing Associations across London, notably the largest housing association in the United Kingdom, Circle 33 (now Clarion Housing). There she excelled in managing a team to resolve complicated housing law cases. While at Circle 33, Olakinto worked beyond her role to provide support and guidance for the people within the community. Enriching the lives of many of the families - she acted as the face and voice of Circle 33, Hackney London throughout her time there.
Beyond her professional achievements, Olakinto was an avid reader - reading hundreds of books over her lifetime. She enjoyed books from all genres from autobiographies and crime novels, to romance and historical literature. She also had an afnity for travel and had ventured to various countries and cities across the globe within Africa, Europe, America, and the Middle East. She also had a knack for fashion and an entrepreneurial spirit, which led her to source fabrics in Austria and Switzerland in the 1990s. Olakinto also made multiple trips to Paris, Naples, Milan, and Dubai to source an array of jewellery pieces and leather goods for her business,Orisun UK. She also had an appreciation for food and was an exceptional cook, leading her to enjoy trying dishes from different cuisines. As well as, experiment with dishes within the kitchen.
Olakinto was also a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was married to Kayode Olaoye for 36 years and was blessed with four children, Yewande, Babajide, Oluwafunmi, and Oluwatobilola. Their blessings continued with the arrival of their son-in-law - Dotun Babalola; and their two granddaughters, Imisioluwa and Sinmiloluwa. Olakinto's family was the cornerstone of her life, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to nurturing and supporting them.
Her impact extended beyond the courtroom and her immediate family. She also had many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who she called her 'babies' who she took under her wing and nurtured. Acting as an inuential mother and aunty gure. She also acted as a guardian for the children of many friends and relatives who were in the UK without support systems, and who were studying and/ or working at the time. She was famously known for sending words of encouragement, prayers, and worship songs to many. These acts of kindness were a testament to her character and not only her love for God but for others also.
Olakinto's life was lled with beautiful memories, friendship, companionship, and sisterhood with whom she shared a deep, unwavering love. As one of the Adesigbin's girls fondly recalled, she was very outspoken and would be seen as one who carried on with the legacy of their Parents, which centred on love, generosity, and selessness.
Her legacy is one of love, dedication, resilience, and profound inuence. She overcame all challenges through the grace of God. She loved the Lord and spent her days sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Olakinto passed away surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her memory continues to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Olakinto Olarenwaju Olaoye (nee Adesigbin) came, saw, and conquered. She is survived by her husband, children, son-in-law, grandchildren, and siblings. Her teachings, love, and words will continue to live on through many. Until we meet in glory where we will no longer depart, continue to rest in the bosom of your Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.