BU alumna, Mayowa AdejumoHaving completed a Master’s in Public Health at BU, Mayowa Adejumo is now running her own farming and food delivery business in Nigeria.

Mayowa was inspired to develop the business by her experiences of grocery shopping in the UK. This experience, combined with the research and analytical skills she developed on the course, gave her the confidence to go it alone. She is currently receiving support as a mentee of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, designed to empower female entrepreneurs in developing countries.

Mayowa said: “I originally came to BU because I wanted to connect my previous degree in veterinary medicine with a greater knowledge of human health. I chose Bournemouth because it offered a quieter lifestyle to some of the big cities, with the beach and a smaller community feel.

“During my year in Bournemouth, I learnt to be very independent. As well as living away from home, I became more independent in my studies, including reviewing and correcting my own work and researching relevant literature to support my thesis. These skills are still supporting me today. I also volunteered at a charity shop and worked as a healthcare assistant, which helped me to develop important skills in customer service.

“I got my current business idea from wanting to replicate the fresh farm produce that I came across when shopping for groceries in the UK. I enjoy being able to solve a challenge or problem and developing a business has given me that opportunity. I am enjoying celebrating my successes and have recently added two new business lines – gardening and maternity gift boxes – which will soon be launched with the help of a brand consultant.”

Aside from the academic experience of being at an overseas university, Mayowa enjoyed meeting new friends. She said: “I always looked forward to the weekly international student meetups – being in good company and sharing good food. I miss lots of things about my time in Bournemouth but have very fond memories which will stay with me forever.”