OKONKWO Febisola (Nee Oladimeji) is the Founder and Executive Director of Tabitha Maison Foundation, Ibadan, Oyo State, and Help for Mankind Initiative, Ibadan, Oyo State. She was born in Ondo to Chief Samuel Oladimeji and Chief Mrs. Margaret Oladimeji.Her educational journey began at St. Peter’s Primary School, Ile Oluji (1973-1979), followed by Gboluji Grammar School, Ile-Oluji (1979-1983). She proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where she obtained a B.A. in Communication and Language Arts in 1988, an M.A. in Communication and Language Arts in 1991, and a Master of Social Work (Social Welfare) in 2009. Febisola’s career spans diverse roles across various fields. She has served as Director of Help Initiative since 2006. Before this, she worked as Marketing Manager at Royal Lilies Concept in Ibadan (2004-2006), Marketing Officer at Skye Bank PLC, Ibadan (2003-2004), and Customer Service Officer at Skye Bank PLC (2002-2003). She was also Director of Lilies International, Ibadan (1995-2002). Her journalism career included roles as Senior Staff Writer, Editor, and Features Writer at Imo Newspapers Ltd (1991-1994) and Sketch Press Ltd (1989-1990). She began her professional journey as an Assistant Editor at University Press Plc, Ibadan, during her NYSC in 1988-1989.

Her exceptional contributions have earned her numerous accolades. She received the Meritorious Service Award from the Community Chest Council, Oyo State, in 2023 and the Top Influential Orphanage Home Award from Empowering Women Awards, Africa, in 2022. In 2020, she was honored with the Distinguished Leadership Award for her exemplary contributions to women’s development by the Centre for Leadership and Good Governance International and NGM Group. Other significant recognitions include the Noble Model Award presented by the Youth Focus Initiative Nigeria in 2017, the Prestigious International Humanitarian Award of the Year by Women of Africa in 2013, and multiple Exemplary Awards from the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (2010 and 2013).

Febisola is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Association of Women Orientations for Sustainable Development in Nigeria (AWON), the Association of Orphanages and Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON), the Association of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria (AOON), and the Child Protection Network (CPN). She continues to dedicate her life to community service and the welfare of vulnerable groups through her initiatives. Febisola can be reached via email at febisolao@tabithahome.org