“Silent Superheroes” is a weekly column on Madame Noire, which showcases ordinary women doing extraordinary things. Stay tuned for more topics, comment or write us at editors@madamenoire.com if you have suggestions!
Yetunde A. Odugbesan has the power to unite and inspire people by her words. For her, the passion for change, leadership and politics began at a young age. She is a Nigerian-American and an outstanding example of what it means to be a young African leader in the Diaspora. Some of her extensive experience includes organizational leadership, campaigning, community relations, community organizing, research analysis, public speaking, social and human rights advocacy.
Currently a graduate student at Division of Global Affairs Rutgers University in New Jersey, she is obtaining her graduate degree in International Affairs. Yetunde received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies and a double minor in Organizational Leadership and Africana Studies from Rutgers University. She is also a motivational speaker where she uses her blog, “Putting Your Best Self Forward,” to empower, encourage and inspire young women and men to be great leaders. She is also the co-author of a recently published book titled, A Call to Serve: Quotes on Public Service.
Real Name: Yetunde Adeola Odugbesan
Alter Ego: “Yetunde!”
Locale: Global but based in New Jersey…and I am Nigerian!
Ordinary Role: Graduate Student, Leader, Writer, Consultant, Activist, Author, Motivational Speaker, Young Professional…all in one!
Secret Powers: Inspiring and motivating people to be the best that they can be. I have x-ray vision–I see the potential where people usually do not see in others or in themselves.
Incognito Aesthetic: I love my personal sense of style- sophisticated, classy and a bit trendy! I love myself, I believe that I am truly a beautiful young woman inside and out. We should all love ourselves and believe in our beauty!
Superhero’s Creed: “It’s not enough to be good if you have the ability to be better. It is not enough to be very good if you have the ability to be great.”
A recent test: My life challenge is to live out my purpose and experience my destiny. Everyday we are faced with small and big challenges that sometimes discourage us to continue moving forward. But, one must realize that challenges and obstacles in life build character…so in essence we must be thankful for challenges! Helen Keller said it best, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved.”
Putting Your Powers to Use: I work on various projects, seminars and conferences that focus on corruption, government transparency, public trust of political systems, human rights, and leadership. I am also a motivational speaker and have a website which sole purpose is to inspire and motivate people to be the best that they can be. I speak to high school and college students on the importance of education, life goals and having a purpose. I have so many passions and have been blessed to be able to “use them all.” Everyday I remember this quote which pushes me to continue using the gifts and talents God gave me to his glory. “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, “I used everything you gave me.”
