DAMILOLA OLUWADARA: Separating yourself from wrong people and situations, and understanding our actions helps to improve our lives.

Dami Oluwadara

Introduce yourself.
Hello, My name is Dami Oluwadara, I am a student studying Biomedical Engineering and I recently
started a Youtube channel called daily stroll diaries.


How long have you been in the states?
I was born here

How was growing up in the states like with you being Nigerian?
It was an interesting mix of cultures because my home was like a micro Nigeria but when I went to
school I was surrounded by Americans, My parents raised us with Nigeria values and taught us how to
read and speak Yoruba. Most of my family is still in Nigeria so we often travel back. I was never isolated
from either experience or culture and it allows me to view the world from 2 different perspectives.
Tell us about your education
I went to a predominantly white public school for a majority of my life, and that experience brought in
another layer of challenge in not only cultural differences, but now race differences.

Were you ever involved in violence?
Ha Ha no. I’m a relatively peaceful person who keeps to myself.

You were born in America, Right?
A Typical Nigerian believes life over there is rosy and filled with enjoyment, what do you have to say to that?
Every country has their issues, we live in a fallen world, so it’s not necessarily fair to say that our
life here is “easy''. And I can’t speak for all of America because you never know other people’s
lives: their financial, social, or familial challenges. The stories that we hear from here and around
the world are devastating . However it would be naive to say that my life here is equal to how
my life would be in , for example, Nigeria. because it’s not true. There are many more
opportunities for people, and a quality of life, my family can afford here that I wouldn’t be able
to have anywhere else. According to studies the happiest people in the world live on the
continent of Africa ( probably because of the focus on God in most countries) so make of that
what you want, I just encourage everyone, myself included, to not be naive.
As a Christian, what has been your focus and how have u been overcoming obstacles of life.
My focus has been growing in relationship with Jesus and living my life in a way that exhibits his love for mankind.

Tell us about your youtube channel
I started my Youtube Channel (daily stroll diaries) because I was bored one summer and I wanted to
work on something that gave me a sense of accomplishment outside of school work. The channel is really a mix of things: Christian encouragement and advice, fun projects, and my life at school and home.
I hope that when people watch my videos that laugh, and that their spirits are uplifted. Subscribe and like some of my videos!

Worst moment. How did you get over it
The beginning of my first year in college was not the best time. I made decisions that I’m not proud of, didn’t have many friends, and felt distant from God. I got over it I think mainly because God introduced to one of my very good friends who supported me, lived her life as an example to me, and is truly a great friend and blessing. Through God she gave some courage to leave behind my old ways that left me feeling hopeless and find my way back to God's true love again. Separating yourself from wrong people and situations, and understanding our actions helps to improve our lives.

Happiest moment!
I’m not sure I can pick just one, but years ago wherever my whole family was together. I loved the joy, energy, and great food in those moments.
Any regret in life?
I don't think so, because God turns everything around for good. So I don’t regret anything, everything has made me who I am today.

What’s your advice to young people around the world going through racism and all kinds of obstacles?
Well, I'm not sure I’m qualified to be giving out advice, but I would say that it is important to understand
that we are enough, and we are more than enough because of Christ. You are no less or better than
anyone so be kind to others even if they are not to you. In terms of those going through obstacles, it’s
important for us to rely on God and those that love us for support. Persevere, endure, and set goals. I
always say, every obstacle needs a plan. Never be afraid to ask for help and show your weaknesses
because that is how we grow and overcome.