November 22nd, 2022, marked a pivotal moment when 22-year-old Oluwadamilare Ololade emerged victorious at the inaugural Tourism Hackathon Nigeria. His winning innovation, Travel Bunny, was a testament to his talent and ingenuity. While Damilare celebrated his well-deserved triumph over 26 other bright participants, behind the scenes, a less visible but equally crucial journey unfolded.
The path to launching the hackathon had been fraught with challenges. Initial local support proved elusive, with numerous doors closing and promises unkept. However, a turning point arrived with the invaluable support of the UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO) team. Even then, the crucial element of a winner’s prize remained unsecured until the eleventh hour. A representative from UNWTO offered a game-changing proposition: sponsoring the winner’s attendance at a global UN conference in 2023. It was an opportunity seized without hesitation.
The subsequent year was a whirlwind, dedicated to bringing the second edition of the hackathon to life. This endeavor was a true labor of love, made possible by the unwavering commitment of a resilient team and loyal collaborators who refused to be discouraged.
Throughout the uncertainties, Damilare’s conduct was exemplary. Despite delays in the realization of his prize trip, he remained patient, focused, and incredibly gracious. His integrity served as a powerful motivator, fueling the determination to persevere.
Last year saw our paths diverge in exciting ways. Damilare’s innovative spirit led him to another significant victory, securing a substantial ₦10 million (~ USD 6,000) grant and technical support at Wema Bank’s Hackaholics 5.0. Simultaneously, I had the honor of speaking at the 1st UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
As time moved forward and the intensity of those early days began to recede, an unexpected email arrived last week, bringing with it a profound sense of fulfillment.
The 2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit is scheduled to take place next month in Livingstone, Zambia. And representing Nigeria on this global stage will be none other than Oluwadamilare Ololade. 🙌🏾🇳🇬
The joy this news brings is difficult to articulate. A vision nurtured over the years has come full circle.
Deep gratitude is owed to the incredible individuals who played a vital role in this journey: Natalia Bayona and ELCIA GRANDCOURT, thank you for your unwavering belief in this vision. Addaia Arizmendi, your behind-the-scenes magic was indispensable. Ifeoma Okafor-Obi, Niyi Aderibigbe, Segun Ogunleye, and Dr. Hakeem Onasanya, thank you for your crucial local incubation support.
To my dedicated team – Tope, Shade, Wemimo, Jide, Ovo, Sadiq, and John – your tireless efforts were the bedrock of this success. And thank you, Amaka, for providing us with a platform in Year 2.
Together, we have transformed an initial idea into an impactful platform that has:
✅ Supported 15 promising startups,
✅ Empowered over 150 tech-savvy entrepreneurs
✅ Received international recognition at the G20 India Summit 2023 as a leading model for digitalization in tourism.
My commitment to championing innovation and nurturing talent across the African continent remains steadfast. I am always eager to collaborate with those who share this vision.
Here’s to the power of bold ideas, the resilience of dedicated builders, and the enduring nature of dreams.
Let’s continue to build together. 💛🌍
