The Impact College

The financial services industry is the backbone of thriving economies, driving growth and innovation globally. At The Impact College (TIC), we equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to excel in this vital field. Our approach goes beyond traditional learning, focusing on fostering ethical leaders who are ready to make a meaningful impact in finance and the global economy. #CraftYourImpact

Impact Spotlight: Tariye Gbadegesin At The Impact College, we are spotlighting Tariye Gbadegesin, a leader in sustainable finance who is making a significant impact on the global stage. In March 2024, Tariye became the Chief Executive Officer of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), a leading global organization funding climate action in developing countries. Under her guidance, CIF is empowering nations to shift towards cleaner energy and build resilience against the challenges of climate change. Before joining CIF, Tariye was the CEO of ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment Limited, where she drove investments in sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure across Africa. Her role was instrumental in supporting the continent’s energy transition and development goals. Tariye’s career is marked by a blend of global expertise and a passion for impactful finance. With experience at organizations like the IMF, Boston Consulting Group, and Price Waterhouse Coopers, she has contributed her skills to initiatives that merge economic development with sustainability. Her advisory roles with groups like the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI) and the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero underscore her commitment to integrating climate considerations into mainstream finance. For finance students, Tariye’s journey is a powerful example of how finance professionals can lead change. She shows that it’s possible to build a successful career in finance while driving meaningful impact, inspiring a new generation of finance leaders to pursue careers that balance profitability with sustainability.

Impact Spotlight : Adebayo Ogunlesi Adebayo Ogunlesi is a Nigerian investment banker and founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a leading global infrastructure investment firm. With a background in law and finance, Ogunlesi’s career has spanned across prestigious firms like Cravath, Swaine & Moore, Goldman Sachs, and First Boston before he founded GIP in 2006. GIP has grown to manage over $70 billion in assets, making impactful investments in key infrastructure projects, including major airports such as London’s Gatwick and Edinburgh Airport. Ogunlesi’s strategic leadership has made him a key player in the global finance sector, with a reputation for successfully managing large-scale investments in infrastructure, transportation, and energy. His firm’s $12.5 billion acquisition by BlackRock in 2024 further solidified his influence in the finance and investment world. Beyond his financial success, Ogunlesi’s work has made a significant impact in bridging Africa’s development needs with global capital. He has been recognized as one of the “100 Most Influential Africans” and received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions to business and philanthropy. Ogunlesi’s commitment to integrity, his ability to make complex investments in global infrastructure, and his leadership in developing financial strategies continue to inspire young professionals in the finance industry. His story shows the potential of finance to create meaningful, lasting impact on both the economy and society.

Congratulations to the 25 graduates of The Impact College Class of 2024! 🎉 We are incredibly proud of everything you’ve achieved on this journey and can’t wait to see the incredible impact you will make in your careers. A huge thank you to our commencement speaker, Wale Abioye, for an inspiring and memorable closing address. Your insights and encouragement provided the perfect finale to this journey, leaving our graduates with wisdom to carry forward. To our graduates, keep pushing boundaries, supporting each other, and striving for excellence. We believe in each one of you and are honored to have been part of your growth. Here’s to a bright future ahead! 🎓

🎓 We’re thrilled to welcome Wale Abioye as our Commencement Speaker for the Class of 2024! With a remarkable career journey that led to his current role as a Partner at KPMG, Wale brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation, customer experience, and innovation across financial services and retail. His human-centered approach and leadership in KPMG's annual banking satisfaction survey have impacted over 30,000+ customers, bridging the gap between business and technology. We can’t wait for him to share his insights on Crafting Your Impact in Finance with our graduating class!

Today, our students presented their capstone projects, working together to analyze a company through financial forecasts, industry insights, and more. Impressive teamwork and dedication were on full display! Thank you to our lead judge Dr. Yusuff Awosanya, ACCA, DIPFA

As we wrap up The Impact College Financial Analyst Program, we’re celebrating National Mentoring Day with deep appreciation for our mentors. Your guidance has been invaluable in helping our students build essential skills and craft their impact in the world of finance. Thank you for empowering and inspiring the now and next generation, giving them the confidence and tools they need to thrive. Here’s to the incredible difference you make every day! Boluwatife Omolade, FMVA® Rasheed Lawal, FMVA®, FMC® Oyinkansola Samuel, CFA Favour T. Obijole Moyosore Taiwo, CFA Lukman Yusuf Sope Okunowo Pamela Okoye

Damola Adamolekun CEO of Red Lobster, reminds us that true fulfillment comes from doing what excites you every day.

Impact Spotlight: Damola Adamolekun Damola Adamolekun as made a significant mark in the world of finance and leadership. As the Chief Executive Officer of the globally recognized restaurant chain Red Lobster, Damola leads strategic initiatives that continue to drive the success and growth of one of the most beloved hospitality brands in the world. His impressive journey to the helm of Red Lobster is rooted in a strong background in finance. Previously, Damola served as the CEO of P.F. Chang's and as a Partner at Paulson & Co., a prestigious New York-based investment firm. At Paulson & Co., Damola played a critical role in sourcing and managing several of the firm’s largest investments, honing his expertise in investment strategy and operational leadership. His finance experience also extends to his roles as an Operating Partner at Garnett Station Partners and as a Private Equity Associate at TPG Capital. Damola’s financial acumen was further shaped during his time at Goldman Sachs in the Investment Banking Division, where he gained invaluable insights into corporate finance and investment banking. His early career accomplishments laid a strong foundation for his leadership in the restaurant industry, where he continues to excel by blending his financial background with strategic business management. Beyond his executive roles, Damola has been recognized for his transformational leadership. In 2021, he was honored with multiple GLOBEE Leadership Awards, including CEO of the Year in Food and Beverage, and in 2022, he was named to Nation’s Restaurant News’ Power List, celebrating his innovative contributions to the restaurant industry. Damola holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Brown University, where he served as President of the Brown Investment Group, and an MBA from Harvard Business School, where he was a Portfolio Manager for the HBS Investment Club. His experience in finance, coupled with his leadership in some of the world's top brands, reflects a career dedicated to driving both financial and operational excellence.

Believe in yourself and your abilities. The only limits are the ones you set for yourself. Stay focused, keep learning, and continue crafting your impact.