Celebrating Yínka Iyinolakan’s 35 Years of Impact and Innovation

By Sheriff Lanre Aderibigbe

As Yínka Iyìnolakan celebrates his 35th birthday, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of a visionary whose work has significantly impacted the worlds of technology, education, and cultural preservation. A polymath with a profound dedication to inclusive growth and technological advancement, Yínka’s contributions have not only enriched Nigeria but have also resonated globally.

A Synergist at Heart

Yínka Iyìnolakan is a synergist, a founder, and a leader whose influence spans across various domains. He is the founder of Yinola Games and the CDIAL.AI. Through CDIAL, he is pioneering the digitization of local languages and localizing digital platforms to empower Africans to engage fully in the global digital ecosystem. His efforts are crucial in preserving indigenous languages and making them accessible in the modern digital age.

A Leader in Strategic Communications

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Yínka has played a pivotal role as the Head of Strategic Communications and Advocacy at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. His strategic insights and advocacy efforts have helped shape economic policies and fostered a better understanding of the Nigerian economic landscape. With over 12 years of experience in marketing communications, technology, creative media, design, and business administration, Yínka’s expertise is both broad and deep.

Innovator in Technology and Media

Yínka’s journey began as a digital marketing manager for Ecobank Nigeria, where he honed his skills in digital marketing and strategic communications. His passion for technology and innovation led him to explore new frontiers in gaming, animation, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. As a technical builder with a keen eye for the arts, Yínka seamlessly blends creativity with technical prowess to drive inclusive growth and innovation.

Academic Pursuits and Research

Currently, Yínka is a PhD researcher focusing on computational media and artificial intelligence for equity at Pan Atlantic University, Lagos. His academic journey is marked by two graduate degrees in Media and Communications and an MBA in Business Administration from the University of South Wales, UK. His research endeavors are dedicated to exploring the intersection of technology and equity, aiming to create solutions that bridge gaps and foster inclusivity.

Global Recognition and Contributions

Yínká’s work has earned him recognition and opportunities to share his insights on global platforms. He has given keynote speeches and participated in panel sessions at significant events across Africa, showcasing his deep understanding of cultural dynamics and technological trends. His global perspective is further enriched by his experiences as a Fellow at Echoing Green in New York and as a Research Specialist in NLP for low-resourced languages at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Passions Beyond Professional Life

Despite his professional achievements, Yínka remains grounded in his passions and personal interests. He is an avid tennis and golf player, a dedicated gamer, and a self-taught visual artist. Fluent in four languages, Yínka’s love for culture, education, and sports continues to shape his approach to life and work.

A Visionary for the Future

As Yínka Iyìnolakan turns 35, we celebrate not just his past achievements but also his vision for the future. His relentless pursuit of innovation, equity, and cultural preservation is a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. Yínka’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference in the world. Here’s to celebrating a remarkable individual who continues to shape the future with his visionary ideas and impactful actions.

• Sheriff Lanre Aderibigbe, Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist, Abuja.