Unfolding Dreams: A Mother’s Mission Across Borders

Interview with Olasubomi Sofowora

Olasubomi Sofowora

Throughout my life, I’ve been inspired by fearless women—torchbearers who stretch the limits of courage, stand tall during fierce storms, and breathe life into bold dreams. My mother is one of them. Recently, I met another.

Her name is Olasubomi Sofowora, “Subomi” for short.

We both volunteer with Elmira District Community Living’s Marketing and Communications Working Group. From our first Zoom meeting, I was struck by her presence: a voice that’s gentle yet commanding, wisdom that lights up any space, and a depth of knowledge that quietly demands respect. My instincts nudged me to learn more.

And when I finally sat down with Subomi, those instincts proved true.

Subomi is a powerhouse: an author, founder, consultant, part-time director at Creekside Church, a dedicated volunteer and a mother, chasing dreams in Canada. Her story is one of grit, brilliance, and heart.

From Nigeria to Canada

Each morning begins with a quiet hum of purpose. Between emails, WhatsApp messages, and virtual meetings, Subomi coordinates efforts across continents, supporting her nonprofit team in Nigeria while navigating life in Canada. Her mission is clear: to build a future where women rise, and her son Demi grows into a man of courage, kindness, and integrity.

Canada wasn’t part of her original plan. In 2022, she was unexpectedly recommended for the Advanced Leadership and Social Impact Fellowship at Queen’s University. With a 50% scholarship, the opportunity nudged her toward a new path. Already working with a UN SDG advisor and attending General Assemblies, the fellowship felt like a natural extension. “At that time, I was at a point in my career and life where I felt like I needed more international exposure. I wanted to connect with more global leaders and widen my perspective,” she says.

Visa delays kept her from the first session, but once she arrived, something shifted. “I started having conversations with people and friends. A seed was sown into me.” She returned for the next session and stayed longer, exploring the possibility of a new life.

Her son Demi was her driving force. She wanted him to grow up with global awareness and resilience. Following a recent divorce, she was also seeking renewal. “Canada offered not just opportunity, but alignment.” She secured Demi’s visa, returned to Nigeria, packed up their lives, and took a leap of faith, one layered with hope, healing, and quiet courage.

Barriers and the Will to Rise

Without a Canadian credit score or rental history, Subomi faced closed doors. No credit card, no local references, and no idea how costly housing could be. Demi couldn’t start school on time, and the emotional toll of uncertainty began to weigh in.

The job market added to the strain. Rejection emails piled up, and unsettling questions crept in: Was it my name? My accent? My qualifications? Subomi refused to shrink herself to fit into boxes that denied her worth. She leaned into her identity, letting it deepen her empathy and fuel her mission for inclusion.

She was top of her program cohort and earned a spot on the president’s honour list at Conestoga College, graduating with a Management of Community Services post graduate certificate. Still, finding a job was difficult. She was advised to downplay her credentials, remove degrees, and settle for less. But she stood firm. “I didn’t want to end up in a job that would make me feel more depressed.”

A Lifeline from Nigeria

She is unstoppable.

Subomi continued building her nonprofit, Woven Impact Network, while finding her footing in Canada. Founded in April 2022, the organization empowers women and youth across Nigeria with skills to launch and sustain small businesses. “My hope is to build a pipeline of women whose stories we’ll celebrate in three to five years, stories of women who once earned $50 a month and are now thriving, making $500 or $1,000 through partnerships and empowerment. It’s about championing change for women in Nigeria and eventually across Africa.”

Her guiding question remains: Will this create impact? She says, “For me, success is being financially sustainable while leaving a legacy that extends beyond myself.”

Subomi in action at Woven Impact Network

Rooted in Impact, Powered by Community

Subomi found connection through cultural groups, faith communities, and volunteering. “It’s always good to serve, even if you are at a disadvantage. Giving opens doors,” she says, recalling how one act of service led to an invitation to train a nonprofit board, an opportunity born from friendship.

Her impact-driven mindset led to roles as kids director at Creekside Church and program consultant for the African Women’s Alliance in Waterloo Region (AWAWR). She describes AWAWR as a space of true belonging, where weekly gatherings offer support, shared stories, and celebration. “There was a new mother who received gifts and trays of meals from fellow members,” she shares. “That, to me, is the power of community.”

Merged Chapters: A Journey of Becoming

Despite her busy life, Subomi carved out time to write her debut book, “Merged Chapters: A Journey of Becoming.” Through twelve chapters, she explores imposter syndrome, self-positioning, and gratitude. Readers have found themselves in her words, drawing strength and clarity. The book’s virtual launch also doubled as a fundraiser for Woven Impact Network.

Though inspired by her own experiences, the book isn’t just about her. “It’s about all of us. It’s a mirror for readers navigating transitions, setbacks, and the quiet longing to thrive, not just survive.”

She says her book has touched the lives of many. “The feedback has been amazing, and honestly, that’s enough for me. Knowing that my words have helped people feel seen, inspired, or even just planted a seed of positivity. That’s the real reward. It’s never been about profit; it’s always been about impact.”

Subomi recently held her book launch for "Merged Chapters"

Advice to Immigrant Women

Subomi encourages immigrant women to seek connection through cultural groups, faith communities, or volunteering. “Serve. Build mutual relationships. Be intentional. Have fun. Even if you feel disadvantaged, there’s always something you can give.”

When I asked how her identity as a Black immigrant shaped her experience in Canada, she responded with striking honesty: “It’s only when I moved to a country like Canada, to the West, that I realized that I’m actually Black.” The label “minority” felt unfamiliar, but she’s embraced her identity with pride. “I’m someone who has a very strong identity of who I am as a person.” Her journey has strengthened her empathy for fellow immigrant women and sparked a drive to create more inclusive spaces.

Still, there are hard days. Moments of doubt. Times when she wonders, why did I come to Canada? But she’s learned not to compare. “Our journeys are different. There’s a purpose for me here.This is a means to an end.”

She now makes space for joy, focusing on things that she loves, enjoying the blessings around her, sharing moments with her growing community, and having meaningful conversations, all reminders of the healing power of laughter and connection. Because being an immigrant, a mother, and a changemaker is hard but also beautiful.

Her son Demi remains her anchor. She teaches him that courage is a choice and kindness a strength.

Subomi’s story is one of resilience, but also of permission. To feel. To falter. To reset. And to find joy. She’s building a legacy, rewriting the futures of women, and most importantly, becoming, and helping others become along the way.

She’s not just an author. She’s a changemaker. And her chapters are still unfolding.