Author | Advocate | Scholar | NICU Advocate | PhD Researcher
Championing Hope, Resilience, & Support for Families in High-Risk Pregnancies
Neonatal Care | Mental Health | Psychosocial Advisor
Tolulope Ola Adejumo’s life is a testament to resilience, hope, and the unwavering power of the human spirit. A dedicated scholar, passionate advocate, and devoted mother, she has transformed her personal struggles into a beacon of hope for countless families facing high-risk pregnancies, premature births, and the complexities of neonatal care. From an early age, Tolulope understood the value of perseverance. Raised in Nigeria in a modest yet loving environment, she witnessed firsthand the sacrifices her parents made to provide opportunities for their family. Hard work and gratitude became her guiding principles, shaping her approach to every challenge that life would throw her way. Her academic journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Tolulope holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and a Master’s in Human Development Leadership (HDL) from Murray State University, with additional leadership certifications from Harvard Business School. She embodies the delicate balance between intellectual pursuit and personal commitment. But her most profound lessons were not learned in lecture halls or through research papers—they were forged in the heart-wrenching moments of motherhood. When Tolulope gave birth to her preterm babies at just 22 weeks and five days, and 22 weeks and one day, she entered an unfamiliar world filled with uncertainty, fear, and an unyielding determination to fight for her children’s survival. The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) became her second home, where she learned to navigate the fragile line between hope and despair. Each beep of a monitor, every hesitant breath from her daughters, and the long nights spent whispering prayers reshaped her into the advocate she is today.
Out of her deeply personal experiences, Tolulope found her voice. She turned to writing, pouring her emotions, struggles, and triumphs onto paper. Her debut memoir, Tiny Hero, Big Heart, captures the raw and emotional journey of parenting preterm babies. More than just a personal story, the book serves as a guiding light for parents facing similar battles, offering them a space of solace, understanding, and unwavering support.
Beyond her writing, Tolulope’s mission extends to community advocacy. She has dedicated her career to serving others, working with organizations like the Canadian Red Cross and The Ottawa Hospital, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping mental health and safety programs. Whether as a Mental Health and Psychosocial Advisor or a Patient Advisor, her work centers on ensuring that those facing adversity are not alone—that they have a voice, a community, and a support system to lean on. Her professional journey is marked by resilience and impact. At the Canadian Red Cross, she leads psychosocial initiatives, advocates for mental health awareness, and implements safety programs for diverse populations. Her previous work with the American Red Cross in Texas saw her managing emergency response initiatives, providing financial aid to disaster victims, and ensuring that help reached those who needed it most. Before her advocacy in North America, she laid the foundation for community outreach programs in Nigeria, establishing policies that set new standards for engagement and communication.
Tolulope’s path has not been without obstacles. She has faced financial strains, moments of self-doubt, and the overwhelming burden of juggling academia, motherhood, and career aspirations. But through it all, she has learned that seeking support is a strength, self-compassion is vital, and that setbacks often pave the way for comebacks.
If she could send a message to her younger self, Tolulope would say:
“Believe in yourself and your worth. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes; they will be your greatest teachers. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you, and remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Your journey may be difficult, but it will ultimately lead you to beautiful opportunities.”
Today, Tolulope is more than an advocate—she is a storyteller whose words heal, a scholar whose knowledge empowers, and a mother whose courage inspires. Through her resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication, she continues to uplift others, proving that even in the face of adversity, hope and strength will always prevail.
