Toyin Lafenwa Oladele is an esteemed Arts and Culture leader, international speaker, EDIA advocate, systems innovator, multi-disciplinary artist, producer, curator, businesswoman, and dedicated community builder. With a portfolio rich in accomplishments and impact, Toyin authentically engages diverse people and works with industry stakeholders towards achievement and empowerment. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation (ICAI) and the Founder and lead consultant at Lamas Consulting Inc, Toyin brings her diverse expertise to the forefront of community empowerment and organizational transformation. Her educational journey includes her current pursuit of an Executive MBA at Queen's University, and a Rozsa Arts Management Program Certificate and Fundamental Training Certificate from the Rozsa Foundation and University of Calgary. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in French Language and Literature, with minors in Performing Arts and English Literature, from the University of Ilorin in Nigeria.

Throughout her remarkable career, Toyin's dedication and impact have been acknowledged through prestigious awards. Toyin made Avenue Calgary's 2023 Top 40 under 40 list and the Top 100 Black Women to Watch by the Canadian International Black Women of Excellence in 2022, and was a recipient of CIWA's Local Women and Global Changemakers Award in 2022. Toyin has been involved in different projects with both government and private organizations including the City of Calgary, Calgary Arts Development, Rozsa Foundation, and the Immigrant Council for Arts Innovation as well as numerous festivals. These projects highlight her exceptional ability to unite communities through vibrant artistic experiences. With an impressive array of accomplishments, a steadfast commitment to EDIA principles, and a unique ability to foster meaningful connections between organizations and communities, Toyin stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of Arts and Culture. Her work as an artist, consultant, and community leader exemplifies the transformative power of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in shaping a brighter future for all.

Share a success story - what are you most proud of accomplishing?

"I have been in Canada for less than 7 years, but I have been able to influence the Arts and Culture sector across the country. I have created a full blown settlement program for Newcomer arts professional called the Newcomer Arts Professional Program (NAPP). The program is one among just three in the entirety of North America that integrates artists, arts managers and culture workers into the local arts sector."

Toyin is providing a Virtual session.