When you claim great value, people you lifted are prove of your true worth
Olori Atuwatse III
When you claim great value, people you lifted are prove of your true worth
Olori Atuwatse III is Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, founder and convener of Elevate Africa. She is a visionary leader committed to making an impact through community, empowerment, education and mind transformation. With a legal background from the London School of Economics, Olori combines her entrepreneurial spirit and expertise to create value across various industries. In this interview, she speaks on passion to inspire and lead change across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
You were raised in a family that holds diligence, education, and integrity in high esteem. How has it impacted you and your role as Queen of Warri Kingdom?
I owe much of who I am today to the incredible foundation laid by my parents and family. My father, Captain Hosa Okunbo, exemplified greatness, vision, and relentless drive, teaching me that excellence is not an option but a responsibility. His life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams, no matter the challenges. My mother, with her unwavering grace, strength, and commitment to family values, nurtured in me a sense of compassion, faith, and integrity. Together, they instilled in me the belief that diligence, education, and integrity are the cornerstones of a meaningful life.
Growing up alongside my siblings, we learned to support, challenge, and uplift one another, understanding that our personal growth was interconnected with the success of our family and community. These familial influences have profoundly impacted my role as Queen and mother of Warri Kingdom. They remind me daily that true greatness lies in serving others, empowering those around us, and upholding principles of integrity and excellence. My drive to uplift the Warri Kingdom is fueled by this legacy, ensuring that I lead with purpose, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being & development of our people.
As Founder of Elevate Africa, what are some of the virtues you live by?
The work of Elevate Africa is driven by virtues I hold dear: faith, courage, community, collaboration, and resilience. Faith anchors everything I do — faith in God, faith in the potential of Africa, and faith in the inherent goodness and strength of people. Courage is essential when envisioning a bold future for our continent and her people. It takes courage to challenge the status quo and to dare to inspire transformation. Community and Collaboration remind us that no meaningful progress happens in isolation. When we unite our efforts, we amplify our impact. Finally, resilience ensures that even when challenges arise, we persevere and remain steadfast in our mission to reimagine Africa’s potential and elevate its people.
As a passionate advocate for women and girls and a social entrepreneur, what key message do you have, especially for the African woman who seems bound by stereotypes?
To every African woman who feels confined by societal expectations, know this: I see you. You are more powerful than any stereotype. Our heritage is rich with stories of women who led, created, and thrived despite limitations. Your potential is not defined by what others say you can or cannot do. Your voice, dreams, and ambitions are valid. Embrace your identity, invest in your education and skills, and lean into the strength of your community. By pursuing your goals with courage and purpose, you not only break barriers for yourself but pave the way for the next generation of women. Remember, when one woman rises, we all rise.
With your various initiatives targeted at the indigent in Delta State, which do you hold dear to your heart and what has been the driving force?
Every initiative I undertake holds a special place in my heart because they address different but interconnected needs. However, the Mama Iwere Christmas Party for Children and the Soup Kitchen programme are particularly dear to me. These initiatives bring joy, nourishment, and dignity to those who need it most, especially during significant moments of the year.
Beyond these, the Royal Iwere Foundation has launched several programmes aimed at long-term empowerment for the indigent. Initiatives such as the skill acquisition workshops provide vocational training in tailoring, baking, hairdressing, and other trades, giving participants the tools they need to achieve financial independence.
The Microfinance Support Scheme offers small grants and interest-free loans to help budding entrepreneurs start and sustain their businesses, especially women and youths. Additionally, the Healthcare Outreach Programmes deliver free medical services, including health screenings, medications, and maternal care, ensuring that the most vulnerable have access to quality healthcare.
The driving force behind all my work is the conviction that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves hope, care, and opportunity. When I see a child smile, a woman empowered with a new skill, or a family receiving essential medical care, it reaffirms the importance of compassion in leadership. These initiatives are not just about providing immediate relief — they are about restoring dignity, building self-reliance, and creating pathways for sustainable progress. True greatness lies in uplifting those around us and ensuring that no one in our community is left behind.
How do you stay motivated to take on your numerous roles?
My motivation comes from a deep sense of purpose, faith, and love for my community. I believe that my role is not just a title, but a calling to serve. My faith in God provides strength, wisdom, and clarity even during challenging times. Seeing the resilience and potential of the people of Warri Kingdom inspires me to keep going, knowing that my efforts contribute to a brighter future. My family, especially my husband, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and our children, are also sources of immense joy and encouragement. Their support and love remind me that every effort, no matter how small, makes a difference.
What initiative will you take on this year 2025? What are your plans for women?
In this year 2025, I am committed to expanding the reach of Elevate Africa and launching campaign that are invariably rallying for Africa and aimed at fostering collaboration, leadership, and innovation across the continent. For women, my focus will be on scaling the EstablishHer programme and the Warri Women Enterprise Fund to provide more women with access to funding, mentorship, and skills training. Additionally, we will invest in conservation and environmental stewardship programmes, recognising that women play a pivotal role in protecting and preserving our environment for future generations. My hope is to see more women rise as leaders, changemakers, and guardians of our cultural and environmental heritage.
What life philosophy do you live by?
I live by the philosophy that “To whom much is given, much is expected” (Luke 12:48). This belief keeps me grounded in gratitude and mindful of my responsibilities. I believe that leadership is a sacred duty, and serving others is one of the greatest expressions of faith and love. I also believe in authenticity, compassion, and purpose-driven action. Every day, I strive to honour God, uplift others, and leave a positive impact. In all things, I am guided by the principle that true fulfillment comes not from what we receive, but from what we give back to our world.
