Olalekan Abdul-Qowiyu Kelani

Olalekan, born in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, on march 30, 1995 to parents Mrs. Silifat Temitope Aminulai and Mr. Kamolideen Oluwatoyin Kelani. Growing up in Ota, Olalekan developed a deep connection with his immediate surroundings, often capturing their essence through photography. His early fascination with the environment around him was nurtured by frequent visits to amusement parks, tourist centers, and cultural heritage sites. These outings sparked his love for photography, as he enjoyed documenting the vibrancy and diversity of these locations. Olalekan's hobbies included playing long tennis, watching international relations and diplomatic movie series, and reading cultural-related books, all of which broadened his worldview and inspired his artistic vision.

Education

Olalekan's academic journey began with an Ordinary National Diploma (O.N.D) in Civil Engineering from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, obtained in 2015. He furthered his studies with a Higher National Diploma (H.N.D) in Civil Engineering Technology from Kwara State Polytechnic in 2021. Simultaneously, he pursued a Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural and Biosystem Engineering at the University of Ilorin, also graduating in 2021. Seeking to blend his technical expertise with managerial skills, Olalekan completed a Master of Science in Project Management at the University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom, in 2024.

Career Projection

Olalekan Kelani has carved a niche for himself as a versatile visual artist specializing in travel and fine art photography. His work, which focuses on culture, lifestyle, and the environment, has been featured in both international and local publications. As the founder of SBK_Kelani, Olalekan's photographs showcase the raw beauty of nature and the diverse human experience. His educational background in engineering and project management has equipped him with a unique perspective, allowing him to blend creativity with strategic thinking in his artistic pursuits.

Relocation and Life in a Different Country

In pursuit of higher education, Olalekan relocated to the United Kingdom to study for his Master’s degree at the University of Portsmouth. Living in a different country exposed him to new cultures and artistic influences, enriching his photographic practice. The experience of navigating a new environment and integrating into a different society provided him with fresh perspectives, which he infused into his projects. This period of his life was marked by both personal and professional growth, as he expanded his network and embraced the diverse artistic community in the UK.

Current Projects

One of Olalekan's notable projects is "tour_with_Kelani," which aims to highlight Nigeria's cultural heritage and tourism. Through this project, he seeks to inspire others to explore the world's diversity by capturing the essence of Nigeria's rich cultural landscapes. Additionally, Olalekan is dedicated to mentoring aspiring photographers,on his personal blog and His Instagram, sharing his knowledge and experiences to nurture the next generation of visual artists. He is an active member of Diversify Photos and Indigenous Photography, advocating for diversity and inclusion within the photography community.

Personal Life

Olalekan Kelani is a multifaceted individual whose personal interests and professional endeavors are deeply intertwined. His passion for photography is complemented by his love for cultural exploration and education. When he is not behind the camera, Olalekan enjoys playing long tennis, watching series on international relations and diplomacy, and delving into books on cultural subjects. Described as a master of travel and fine art photography via his profile, His personal experiences and academic background have also collectively shaped his artistic vision, allowing him to create works that not only capture moments but also foster cultural dialogue and understanding. Through his lens, Olalekan invites viewers on a journey of discovery, capturing the essence of moments and advocating for the appreciation of cultural diversity.