Dr. Abimbola Ogundere: From Classroom Teacher to Continental Education Leader
Meet Dr. Abimbola Ogundere, our LagosMums Mum of the Month!
She’s a wife, mother of three, educator, author, and the founder of Kids’ Court School, Court Hill College, and the Learning As I Teach (LAIT) Foundation Africa. Her life is dedicated to raising children, both at home and in African schools, to become confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.
In this feature, she discusses juggling multiple roles, the importance of laughter in every home, and how she’s preparing her children to become world citizens, not just high achievers.
The Woman Behind the Schools
Dr. Abimbola Ogundere is a teacher, school owner, coach, mentor, author, and advocate for quality education across Africa. Through her books Right Teacher, Right Leadership, and Right Mindsets, and through LAIT Africa’s leadership programs, she works with teachers and school leaders across the continent, helping them grow in excellence and purpose.
But her most important role? “Being a mum to Motunrayo, Moyosola, and Mosopefoluwa, each one teaching me new lessons about love, patience, and leadership daily.”
People are often surprised to learn how playful she is at home. “I dance with my children, play card and board games, watch movies, sing loudly to worship songs, and enjoy long conversations about life and dreams with them.” Her children tease her that she can turn any ordinary moment into a “learning experience,” even a car ride becomes a mini life class.
A House Full of Laughter
The Ogundere home has three children: 18-year-old Motunrayo, who is studying Computer Science at the University of Birmingham; 15-year-old Moyosola, in Year 11; and 10-year-old Mosopefoluwa, in Year 6.
One memory still makes the family laugh. Young Mosope once declared that he would one day be “the principal of all the principals in Lagos!” Everyone burst out laughing. Dr. Ogundere admits she secretly loves how confident he is in dreaming big.
A Partnership of 18 Years
Dr. Ogundere and her husband met many years ago through a mutual friend during a university event. What began as a friendship grew into something deeper, and they’ve now been married for over 18 years. She describes him as calm, grounded, wise, resourceful, and deeply supportive, qualities that complement her drive and vision.
In parenting, she and her husband share the same values but approach them differently. “I’m the planner. I like structure and routine. He is spontaneous yet strict. Between both of us, we strike a healthy balance, discipline with warmth, structure with laughter, and boundaries with grace.”
The Village She Leans On
Having a support system is essential for Dr. Ogundere. “A support system is everything. I often say no woman can do it alone, at least, not well.”
Her support system includes her husband, her mother, her siblings, and a circle of friends who understand the journey of motherhood and leadership. “Having people who pray with you, cheer you on, and hold you accountable is such a gift.” She also credits her teams at Kids’ Court School, Court Hill College, and LAIT Africa for making it possible to juggle multiple roles excellently.
Parenting in a Different Era
Parenting today looks different from when Dr. Ogundere was growing up. “When we were growing up, children were often told what to do without much explanation. Today’s children ask why, and rightly so. Parenting now requires more intentional communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability.”
Technology has changed things, too. Children are growing up in a digital world, and the challenge is to guide them in using technology positively while ensuring it doesn’t define their identity or values.
Her approach to raising her children focuses on building strong values, confidence, and critical thinking skills. “I teach them that character is everything; to be kind, curious, and courageous.”
The family has open conversations about global issues, technology, and leadership. She encourages her children to read widely, explore their interests, serve others, and embrace lifelong learning. “My goal is to raise grounded world citizens, not just high achievers.”
LagosMums – Mum of the Month with Dr. Abimbola Ogundere Share on XWhat Motherhood Has Taught Her
“Motherhood has taught me that strength and tenderness can coexist. I’ve learned that I don’t need to have it all figured out—that love, presence, and grace are more powerful than perfection.” The lessons have also helped her work. “It’s also made me a better leader. Many of my leadership lessons came from being a mum: patience, listening, empathy, and resilience.”
Finding Balance
On balancing work and parenting, Dr. Ogundere is practical about it. “Balance isn’t about doing everything at once but about knowing what matters most in each season. There are times when work takes more attention, and other times when family needs me more.”
She plans intentionally, sets boundaries, and makes time for family dinners and getaways. She’s learned to delegate both at work and home. “It’s not perfect, but it’s possible when you live by priorities and not pressure.”
Building Educational Excellence Across Africa
Her journey into educational leadership stemmed from a desire to effect change. “My inspiration came from a deep desire to change the narrative of education in Africa. I wanted schools not only to teach but also to transform. I am a product of great schools, and I want the same for all African children.”
She started Kids’ Court School in 2009. LAIT Africa grew from her passion to build capacity for teachers and school leaders across the continent. The impact has been broader than expected. “The ripple effect of empowering one teacher or one school leader often reaches hundreds of children. That’s humbling and beautiful.”
Preparing Children for Tomorrow’s World
Her advice to parents is straightforward. “Encourage curiosity, creativity, and resilience. The future of work isn’t just about degrees but also about adaptability, communication, and problem-solving.”
She believes in exposing children to real-world learning early—internships, volunteering, entrepreneurship, coding, arts, anything that builds initiative and confidence. “Above all, help them know who they are beyond their grades.”
Busting One Motherhood Myth
On motherhood myths: “The biggest myth is that mums have to be superhuman. We don’t. We just need to be present and purposeful. It’s okay to rest, to ask for help, and to admit when we’re tired.”
Her advice to other mothers: “Be kind to yourself. Celebrate small wins, forgive mistakes, and keep growing. Motherhood is not a competition—it’s a calling.”
One thing that should never be missing from every home? “Laughter. It’s the sound of love, connection, and joy.”
LagosMums – Mum of the Month with Dr. Abimbola Ogundere Share on X
Making Time for Herself
Dr. Ogundere has her self-care rituals. “I love quiet mornings with my Bible, exercise and gospel music. I also enjoy swimming, spa days, and long walks, moments where I can breathe, reflect, and just be.”
She’s learned that taking care of herself matters. “I’ve learned that caring for myself helps me show up better for everyone else.”
Why She Values LagosMums
“I love that LagosMums creates a real sense of community, a space where women can share, learn, laugh, and grow together. It’s inspiring to see so many mums balancing faith, family, and purpose while cheering one another on.”
Quick Takes
N1 Million or more sleep?
“I’ll take more sleep, please! Rested minds make better decisions.”
Shopping spree or all-expense-paid trip to your dream destination?
“Definitely, the trip! Experiences last longer than things.”
Homeschooling or traditional school?
“Traditional school. I believe in the power of community and social learning.”
A spa day or eat out?
“Spa day! A quiet pampering moment sounds heavenly.”
Dr. Abimbola Ogundere’s story is about purpose meeting passion, building futures in classrooms across Africa while raising three children at home. Her journey shows that motherhood and leadership can work together when powered by love, faith, and clear vision. Dive into more Mum of the Month stories on LagosMums and be inspired by women who are nurturing families, building legacies, and shaping tomorrow’s generation.