Tejumola Akinyelure

University of Toronto, Rotman School of Management

“Impact-driven leader passionate about creating sustainable and inclusive change in the world of finance.”

Hometown: I’m originally from Ibadan, Nigeria, but I spent most of my adult life in Lagos, Nigeria.

Fun Fact About Yourself: I love playing chess and swimming whenever I get the chance to. Playing chess helps me think more logically, while swimming allows me to relax and recharge.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lagos, Nigeria, Bachelor of Science in Accounting

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Kuramo Capital Management, Investment Analyst

Personal and professional development is one of the cornerstones of the Rotman MBA experience. What have you learned about yourself so far and what do you hope to achieve? Rotman prioritizes growth beyond academics by fostering a well-rounded environment that equips students to lead purposefully. One thing you’re sure to get at Rotman is access to a wide range of helpful resources that can help you succeed. However, I have learned that it’s ultimately up to you to make the most of these opportunities and take ownership of your personal development. For example, we have access to the Self-Development Lab, which has been transformative in helping me identify my strengths and uncover opportunities for growth. These insights have been invaluable for collaborating effectively in team settings, particularly on challenging projects and assignments.

Additionally, there are a variety of fellowships, clubs, and events that fuel personal development during the MBA journey at Rotman. For instance, I have participated in multiple case competitions organized by student clubs, which have deepened my understanding of the Canadian capital markets. All of these opportunities have helped me build skills that are critical for navigating my MBA journey and advancing my career post-MBA. My goal is to continue leveraging Rotman’s unique offerings to challenge myself and grow into a well-rounded leader.

What has been your favorite part of Toronto so far? Why? The people I have met here in Toronto have been a major highlight. Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds has helped me build meaningful connections and feel a sense of belonging within a global community. The city itself is vibrant, with incredible spots to explore. My favorite spot is 360 The Restaurant at CN Tower, where I had an unforgettable experience enjoying great food while soaking in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the one key part of Toronto Rotman’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? Rotman School of Management was my top choice for an MBA because of its rich curriculum, experienced faculty, and extensive alumni network. As someone eager to break into the capital markets in Canada, choosing a renowned institution like Rotman, with its strong focus on finance, was an easy decision. In the first year, core courses such as Accounting, Economics, and Finance help strengthen the foundational knowledge essential for a successful career in finance. Additionally, Rotman’s growing alumni network of over 20,000 graduates was a significant draw. Connecting with these alumni has provided invaluable guidance and mentorship, which are crucial for thriving in one’s industry of choice.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Toronto Rotman? I have thoroughly enjoyed my involvement with the Rotman Asset Management Association (RAMA), where I was selected as one of 21 Equity Research Analysts for the Rotman Student Investment Fund (RSIF). As an RSIF Analyst, I analyze and give investment recommendations within North America’s consumer staples sector, and this has been a great learning experience for me. Additionally, the Rotman Finance Association (RFA) has been impactful in providing insights into Canada’s M&A landscape, especially through all the case competitions organized in partnership with the investment banks. Through both clubs, I have had opportunities to network with top industry leaders and participate in case competitions that have significantly broadened my financial and business acumen.

In terms of courses, I have genuinely enjoyed my strategy classes the most. The energy exuded by my professor, Hong Luo, and the depth of insights gained from the course have made it my favorite so far. Through this course, I now understand how businesses can create sustainable strategic advantages that are not easily replicable by competitors. The course is really great for aspiring leaders in any field.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of my most significant career accomplishments was contributing to a groundbreaking gender lens investing initiative, the first-of-its-kind in Africa. The initiative aimed to boost capital flow to female fund managers on the continent through an integrated platform. I’m proud to have been part of the team that coached, trained, and empowered over 30 first-time female fund managers across Africa since the initiative’s launch.

Also, I am proud of completing my Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) certification during my penultimate year at university and scoring in the 90th percentile on my CFA Level 1 exam on the first attempt while working more than 50 hours a week.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far. Winning a stock pitch competition with my team has been my biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far. My team represented Rotman, and we pitched in front of over 500 people at the 2024 Student Investment Fund Conference organized by CIBC Mellon, UPP, and IMCO. It was nerve-wracking but also one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. Not only did my team win the Master’s Level Award at the stock pitch competition, but we also received the Audience Choice Award at the conference.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? Attending the orientation retreat at Camp Winnebagoe has been my most cherished memory so far. It was my first experience in the serene, dense woods, surrounded by tall trees and the calming sounds of nature. I got the opportunity to participate in several games and activities, including rock climbing, archery, kayaking, and a campfire. Beyond that, it was an incredible bonding experience, and it laid the foundation for friendships and connections that have significantly enriched my time at Rotman.

DON’T MISS: MEET TORONTO ROTMAN’S MBA CLASS OF 2026

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