Princess Adesile, a beacon of modern royalty and cultural ambassador, graces us with her presence in this edition of Doing Life With…, a captivating series by BellaNaija that delves into the myriad facets of people’s lives. Hailing from the esteemed lineage of the Awujale of Ijebu land, Princess Adesile captured hearts at the 2024 Ojude Oba festival as the first female equestrian to garner widespread acclaim. In an era where tradition meets modernity, she is reshaping perceptions and redefining the essence of heritage.
As we embark on this enriching dialogue with Princess Adesile, she exudes a sense of gratitude for the blessings and meaningful experiences that have adorned her journey thus far. Sharing insights into her background, Princess Adesile unveils a tapestry woven with regal threads. Descending from two illustrious royal houses in Ijebuland, she embodies a “double princess
” heritage bestowed upon her by her father, Prince Abdul Gafar Adebayo Ajigboteso. Her lineage resonates with tales of leadership, grace, and cultural reverence passed down through generations.
Amidst the tapestries of culture and tradition that enveloped her upbringing, education played a pivotal role in shaping Princess Adesile’s worldview. Armed with a Master’s degree in Information and Communication Technology and honing her skills as an IT analyst before venturing into entrepreneurship, she seamlessly blends tech-savvy acumen with regal elegance.
A poignant moment from her childhood served as a catalyst for challenging norms—a question posed during the Ojude Oba festival about gender roles sparked a fervor within her to champion inclusivity and reshape narratives. Reflecting on this experience, Princess Adesile shares: “
I knew I had to answer it with action.
”
Intrinsically tied to cultural festivities like Ojude Oba is the essence of identity—a theme close to Princess Adesile’s heart. She emphasizes the profound impact of cultural affiliation on one’s sense of self and societal belonging: “
Culture grounds you… It’s like knowing the lyrics to your soul’s soundtrack.
” Through vibrant celebrations like Ojude Oba, she asserts women’s rightful place at the center stage of traditions.
Fashion emerges as both an art form and armor for Princess Adesile—a language through which she articulates her multifaceted persona spanning tradition to technology. Delving into fashion’s significance in self-expression, she muses: “
Fashion is my love language… how I speak before I open my mouth.
”
Venturing beyond borders has enriched Princess Adesile’s worldview—Mexico holds a special place in her heart for its warmth akin to Nigeria’s embrace. Recalling poignant cultural experiences from travels—the Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico stands out for its profound homage to ancestors—an echo resonating deeply with traditions like Ojude Oba.
With each sunrise unveiling new possibilities across diverse geographies, Princess Adesile navigates days brimming with creativity—from campaign shoots to business strategies—all underpinned by gratitude for life’s unfolding tapestry.
The entrepreneurial landscape poses challenges aplenty yet laced with moments that evoke an “Oh no!” chuckle from even seasoned individuals like Princess Adesile. She attests that laughter amidst chaos coupled with unwavering support from community fosters resilience amidst trials.
Offering pearls of wisdom garnered through experience—she advocates embracing duality; intertwining heritage while trailblazing innovation: “
You can wear your grandfather’s agbada and still disrupt… We’re allowed to be both.”
Peeling back layers reveals unexpected facets—beneath regal robes lies a techie at heart enamored by digital intricacies yet finding solace atop noble steeds amid dreamscape gallops.
Unwinding amidst life’s whirlwind involves communion with nature or simply reveling in carefree moments sans judgment—an embodiment true to oneself despite external gazes.
As our conversation draws to a close amid shared laughter and reflections on ancestral legacies materializing into present realities—the spirit emboldened by past monarchs reverberates within every stride taken by Princess Adesile towards shaping tomorrow’s narratives—one regal step at a time.
Join us next time for another insightful episode!
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