Richard Olayinka

I am driven by a simple but relentless question: How do we build systems that give young people—especially those in underserved communities—a real shot at the future they deserve?

That question shapes everything I do.

I am a medical student, educator, and social impact leader committed to expanding opportunity through education, leadership development, and innovation.

I founded Beyond Books Africa, an initiative dedicated to helping young people learn, lead, and thrive through mentorship, academic support, and leadership programs. Through its flagship initiative, Apex Free UTME Tutorial, we have supported more than 6,000 students across Nigeria since 2023.

I am also building Learnova, a platform exploring better ways to make learning support and student development more accessible through technology and community.

Alongside my entrepreneurial work, I serve as the National Programs Coordinator of the NiMSA Emerging Leaders Forum (ELF), helping design leadership and professional development experiences for medical students across Nigeria. I also serve as Chief of Staff to the President of the Federation of Ogbomoso Students' Union (FOGSU), where I support strategy, operations, and youth-focused community initiatives.

My work extends into global health education through the Global Health Education Society (GHESOG) under the Global Association of Indian Medical Students (GAIMS), and I serve as an Ambassador for The Assembly by Enovate Lab, supporting innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.

I have spoken at conferences and leadership platforms on education, leadership, innovation, and execution, and have convened initiatives such as the Ogbomoso Secondary Schools Conference, bringing together hundreds of secondary school students to explore leadership and future opportunities.

At the heart of my work is a belief that lasting change comes from building institutions, developing capable leaders, and creating systems that expand opportunity at scale.

If you're working at the intersection of education, youth development, leadership, or global health, I'd be glad to connect.