Oriade Williams (Alaafin)
"Be like water; take any form and don't complicate things."
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About
Oriade Williams, popularly known as Alafi, is an undergraduate at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). Known for his easygoing nature and principled approach to life, he shares his journey of personal growth, student leadership, and the importance of maintaining focus throughout the university experience.
What Shaped Them
- Academic Path: His journey to FUTA was unconventional, choosing the university after a chance encounter that turned him away from his initial path in Benin. This shift led him to find a peaceful and productive environment to study Agriculture and Resource Economics.
- Military Upbringing: Growing up in a military home instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, clear boundaries, and a personal code of conduct that governs his interactions with others.
- Leadership Experience: Serving as a student leader—specifically as a financial secretary—provided him with a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of governance, teaching him the balance between transparency and the need to protect sensitive information for the greater good.
Lessons From Their Journey
Prioritization: Academics should always be the primary assignment. Students often struggle because they prioritize non-essential tasks over their studies; success requires ensuring all activities support one's core goals.
Embrace Failure: Rather than fearing failure, treat it as a 'classroom.' Every mistake is a lesson that provides insights into one's limitations and areas for improvement, which is essential for eventual success.
Avoid Procrastination: Entrepreneurial and personal projects should not be postponed. Starting small and being consistent is significantly better than waiting for the 'perfect' time.
Advice To Younger Students
Education provides a unique platform for growth that no money or connection can replicate. Be serious, diligent, and kind, and remember that success is not just about what you do, but how you do it.
Memorable Quote
"When I fail, I don't see it as failure; I take it as I'm being taught a lesson."
Why We Remember Them
Alafi is remembered for his calm, 'jovial' approach to leadership and his philosophy of flexibility. His commitment to academic excellence and his pragmatic view on overcoming setbacks serve as a reminder to students to stay focused and resilient before they graduate.
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