Our #OnePerson for August is Michael Showunmi, a remarkable social entrepreneur and the founder of Raising Star Africa. As a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, Michael has dedicated his life to supporting differently-abled and less privileged children, providing them with the resources and opportunities needed to become self-reliant. His inspiring work has made a significant impact, not only in Nigeria but across the continent.
Michael’s journey is one of resilience and determination. Living with a physical disability himself, he has firsthand experience of the challenges faced by those in similar situations. His childhood was marked by societal stigma, bullying, and a lack of adequate support for children with disabilities. This personal history has driven Michael’s unwavering commitment to improving disability services and fostering a truly inclusive society. He is not only a visionary leader but also a powerful force for change.
In addition to his role as the founder of Raising Star Africa, Michael is also a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) expert. He leverages his expertise to champion inclusive practices across various sectors, working to break down barriers and create equitable opportunities for all. His broader advocacy efforts go beyond disability inclusion, promoting diversity and equitable practices across all walks of life. Michael’s work is a shining example of his dedication to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, has the opportunity to succeed and make a meaningful contribution to society.
Through Raising Star Africa, Michael has been instrumental in creating programmes that address the unique challenges faced by children with disabilities. These programmes aim to equip them with essential life skills and the confidence to thrive independently. His commitment extends further, supporting disabled entrepreneurs with business grants to foster financial independence. Michael’s work reflects his belief in the importance of financial empowerment as a means of breaking the cycle of dependency and fostering dignity among individuals with disabilities.
In 2021, he founded the Raising Star Africa Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that is committed to empowering differently-abled and less privileged children across Africa. The foundation focuses on quality education and essential life skills, providing these children with the tools they need to succeed. In 2022, Michael spearheaded a significant initiative to renovate three inclusive public schools in Lagos State, improving accessibility for over 500 disabled children. His dedication to education and inclusion was recognised that same year when he was named the first runner-up in the Disability Empowerment Awards by BudgIT Nigeria.
Michael’s impact extends beyond education. In 2023, he was selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow and an Education Delegate at One Young World. In Belfast, UK, he delivered a powerful speech on ‘Education for All’ to over 2,000 leaders from 190 countries. His advocacy has enhanced the confidence and sense of belonging for over 5,000 persons with disabilities in Nigeria and has shifted societal perceptions across 120 communities. By altering these perceptions, Michael has made significant strides in reducing the stigma surrounding disability in Nigeria.
Michael’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work. These include the Royal African Award in 2022 and recognition by UNICEF Nigeria. His role as an ambassador for One Young World further solidifies his position as a global leader in the field of disability empowerment and education.
Despite his success, Michael remains humble, focusing on the impact he can make in the lives of others. He encourages others to focus on what they can change and to leave a lasting impact in their communities. His belief in education for all is not just a lofty ideal but a call to action that he embodies every day.
Well done, Michael! Keep leading the charge for inclusiveness and accessibility.
