Vitals- with Lolu
Lolu: Yes, definitely. It’s interesting to hear people call it a “recent foray”. I like to think of it as an evolution into a more front-end expression, as my journey began years ago. I only recently started to translate the initiatives to the outside world, but I’d been involved in mentoring since I was a student myself. I would then graduate and realize the value of referees, of senior professionals who speak for you, lend their credibility to your work, and affirm that they believe in you. When someone decides to lend their voice to your dream, it changes things. Sometimes you’re discouraged, but because you see that they really believe in you, it spurs you to believe in yourself. It’s very transformative. So, naturally, my foray into the development of “Vitals” (our mentoring and career building initiative) stemmed from wanting to pioneer an avenue where younger doctors in training can connect with seasoned mentors, develop lifelong learning relationships, and access opportunities for professional development.
Nolina: Wow, Bravo Lolu. Such an amazing job you’re doing; and I see the punchline too- vitals like vital signs that doctors measure eh?
Lolu: (Smiles) Indeed. Look at you, already picking up on medical terminology.
Nolina: (Chuckles) I do my best. Now, I’d like to ask you how it’s been for you — combining leading the initiative & being a public speaker with your job as a doctor.
Lolu: (Introspectively) Hmmm. I’m not going to lie, it’s been quite tough. It’s like having two full time jobs on your hand. I’m very fortunate that we have many passionate student volunteers at Vitals. They help make the burden a lot easier so I don’t slack off on any front, work-wise. My goal for the year is to juggle both balls with balance and create the time for other important things in life.
Nolina: Great job Lolu. We’re now closer to the end of the interview. I’m sure you’re like, “Why now, let’s continue”…
Lolu: Ehn? I am itching to get off the hot seat soon (Laughs).
Nolina: (Laughs) Haba. We’ve loved having you on board. But of course, we to must ask all these questions, you know, get all the inside scoop. (Chuckles) But on a more serious note, I do know many people who really admire your work and would want to learn from you.
Lolu: For sure. I am absolutely grateful for the opportunity. I was just teasing you earlier. Still, Nolina, you can ask questions for Africa.
Nolina: Hahaha. I will take that as a compliment.
Lolu: You know, earlier on, I was going to mention that from next year, we plan to develop some organizational structure for Vitals and possibly hire some temporary staff. We are looking to create room for first-and second-year students to have 1–3 month internships with us. As earlier mentioned, our goal is to create a support network for younger professionals to access help from an early stage, rather than grapple with difficulties only to realize later on that they could have done things differently.
Nolina: Ohhh, I see. You kind of already answered the next question I was going to raise, about what you see the future entailing.
Lolu: I hope that’s not considered as going beyond the “syllabus”.
Nolina: (Smiles) No, no. It’s perfectly fine. Thank you so much for being with us today, Lolu. It’s been wonderful having you.
Lolu: Thank you so much for the honour.
