Lasisi Romoke Adunbarin, a first-class Mathematics graduate from the University of Ilorin, is a passionate Data Scientist committed to using technology for social impact. She is the Co-founder and Data Science Tutor at The Emerging Minds Foundation, an NGO dedicated to equipping passionate individuals with essential tech skills.
Her dedication to education has transcended borders — including her role as an Assistant Data Science Tutor at the University of Nairobi through CSA Africa. With hands-on experience in customer analytics, fintech, healthcare, and entertainment projects, she has successfully blended data, teaching, and community building to inspire the next generation of tech leaders.
In this edition of Edugist “My Teaching Life”, she shares her experiences as an educator and lifelong learner. She also reflects on her journey, challenges and aspirations.
How do you feel about your journey so far, especially graduating with a first-class in Mathematics?
Thank you. It feels amazing because if there’s one thing my journey has taught me, it’s this: your background does not determine your future — your resilience and faith do. Studying Mathematics is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I wouldn’t trade it for Computer Engineering.
Can you tell us about your background and what kept you determined despite challenges?
I come from a very humble background, and as the firstborn, I didn’t want to add to the financial pressures at home. Driven by my belief in the power of education and a strong desire to create a better future, I worked hard to save up after secondary school — first as a sales rep, then as a nursery teacher, and finally as a cleaner.
My plan was to continue supporting myself through school with weekend cleaning jobs. But by God’s grace, He brought incredible people into my life who eased the financial burden, so I didn’t have to return to those jobs.
What kept you moving through such tough circumstances?
Discipline kept me going because, without discipline, nothing can be achieved. Self-belief motivated my vision of a better tomorrow — knowing that every little effort, no matter how tough, was a step closer to my dream. Faith, resilience, and the hope that one day my story could inspire others kept me pushing through the odds.
Why Mathematics? Was it your first choice?
I didn’t choose Mathematics — Mathematics chose me. Initially, I wanted to study Computer Engineering, but I was offered Mathematics instead. Rather than complain, I told myself: the best way to prove I deserve the course I wanted is by excelling in the one I was given. With hard work, persistence, and God’s help, I achieved that.
What was your entry point into Data Science?
It began after I attended a three-week Python Fundamentals workshop at Computer Science Academy Africa during the ASUU strike in 2022.
How has this journey translated into impact for others?
A three-week Python programming workshop first sparked my own journey into Data Science, and now I’m creating that same spark for others. As a volunteer tutor and co-founder at The Emerging Minds Foundation, my impact has been tutoring and guiding passionate individuals onto the right path — helping them access tech scholarships, resources, and mentorship, which are essential for learning tech skills.
Many of them have continued to grow independently, and it’s rewarding to see how a little guidance can open doors and set them on a lasting journey in tech.
What was it like teaching Data Science in Nairobi?
Serving as a Data Science Tutor at the CSA Africa Workshop in Nairobi was an enriching experience. It gave me the opportunity to share knowledge while also learning from participants with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
The experience strengthened my confidence as an educator, made me realize you don’t need to know it all before you can make an impact, broadened my network, and deepened my belief in the power of collaboration across borders.
How do you balance academics with volunteering and community impact?
It’s not easy balancing both, but for me, my academics come first. I then use my free time for one or two volunteering activities. For me, it’s always about the impact, not the number of times I volunteer.
What advice would you give to young people who feel limited by their background?
I’m not saying it’s going to be easy — I’m saying it’s going to be worth it.
Don’t let your situation frustrate you. Do your work with joy and contentment, and be proud of yourself — never ashamed of what you do. With belief in God, everything gets better with time.
What are your future goals?
My goal is to further my education in tech-related or Mathematics courses closely connected to technology, up to the PhD level. I want to use this knowledge to create real impact across different industries while also continuing to give back to the community.
