Ibukunoluwa Martins

Washington University, Olin Business School in St. Louis

“Engineer turned sports marketer and entrepreneur fueled by innovation, bridging sports and tech, shaping future ventures.”

Hometown: Abuja, Nigeria

Fun Fact About Yourself: I play the drum set very well!

Undergraduate School and Major: Covenant University, Nigeria, Information and Communication Engineering.

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Fit&Pro Sports Management, Marketing Director and Co-Founder

What has been your favorite part of St. Louis so far? What makes St. Louis such a great place to earn an MBA? St. Louis captivates me with its vibrant yet intimate cityscape, fostering community warmth. As a sports enthusiast, backing St. Louis CITY SC and the Cardinals add excitement to my MBA journey. The city’s perfect blend of urban charm and friendly faces creates an unparalleled academic and personal growth environment. There are also many Fortune 500 companies that partner with WashU and provide an opportunity for learning and growth.

You completed your Global Immersion earlier this year? What was the best part of the immersion experience for you? What was the biggest takeaway you gained? Embarking on the global immersion was a transformative experience, notably in Spain. Exploring diverse markets reinforced my passion for international business. The immersion emphasized the crucial shift from ideas to understanding and catering to the nuanced needs of potential customers in the European market. It broadened my entrepreneurial vision, giving me invaluable insights into the intricacies of launching or expanding ventures worldwide. The experience of travel, cultural immersion and strategic business learning made it a highlight of my MBA journey.

Aside from your immersion and classmates, what was the key part of Washington Olin’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? I chose WashU Olin Business School because I was enchanted by its vibrant entrepreneurship community and robust resources. Olin’s deep commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit aligns with my passion.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Washington Olin? My most cherished experiences at WashU Olin have been through the OABC (Olin African Business Club) and OWIB (Olin Women in Business Club). These clubs have been more than just activities; they’ve become a supportive family. The camaraderie and assistance I’ve received, both academically and in navigating career opportunities, have made a significant impact. It’s comforting to know that I have a dedicated group of individuals in my corner, fostering an environment of friendship, mentorship and unwavering support throughout my MBA journey.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My most significant accomplishment to date is co-founding a prominent sports and fitness apparel brand in Nigeria, with aspirations for further expansion across Africa. Our brand is not just about clothing; it’s a solution provider. We’re dedicated to helping our customers prevent injuries, mitigate risks and achieve their fitness goals. Knowing that our work positively impacts lives by promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle is immensely fulfilling.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? The most cherished moments of my MBA journey are the times spent connecting with classmates. Engaging in discussions about our diverse backgrounds, sharing global perspectives, and brainstorming innovative solutions created a special bond. These interactions transcend the classroom, allowing me to learn not just from textbooks but from the rich experiences of my peers. The warmth of getting to know my classmates on a personal level has truly been the heartwarming highlight of my MBA experience.

DON’T MISS: MEET WASHINGTON OLIN’S MBA CLASS OF 2025