From Laurier to the FIFA Fan Fest stage: Oluwatobi Ajibolade (TOBi) (BSc ’15)

When Canada welcomed the world for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Laurier alumni have played a role in showcasing not only the country's passion for soccer, but also the diverse communities that help define it.

For Oluwatobi Ajibolade (TOBi) (BSc ’15), the opportunity to contribute to the tournament extends beyond the game itself. Through performances at FIFA Fan Fest events and appearances on TSN and Apple TV, he has helped tell the story of Canadian soccer from a unique perspective, highlighting the often-underrepresented suburban communities of the Greater Toronto Area, including Brampton and Mississauga.

"My goal is to represent this country with excellence and artistic integrity," he says.

TOBi believes the World Cup will have a transformative impact on soccer in Canada, shining a spotlight on the country's growing talent and the many cultures that have helped shape the sport's development.

"The World Cup has highlighted the immense talent in Canada and showcased the abundance of cultures that bring so much to the table for us as a country."

His journey to this global stage was influenced in part by his experiences at Laurier. Looking back, TOBi credits the university with helping him develop the confidence and professional skills that continue to serve him today.

"Laurier was where I first learned how to network with peers and present myself as a professional in high-level settings," he says. "These soft skills are lifelong and have helped me tremendously in being confident in any room I'm in."

Beyond the classroom, involvement across campus taught valuable lessons in adaptability and resilience.

"I think a university like Laurier is a perfect microcosm of the professional world. Because I was involved in many different aspects of campus life, I learned the art of adaptability and pivoting as industries change."

TOBi’s decision to attend Laurier was sparked by a campus visit during high school.

"The in-person orientation sold me," he recalls. "There were great opportunities for leadership and a very strong alumni network."

The connections TOBi built during his time at Laurier have remained one of the most meaningful parts of his university experience.

"I've made lifelong friends who continue to enrich my life in a myriad of ways."

For current students navigating their own paths, TOBi offers a simple but powerful piece of advice:

"Eyes on your own paper and run your own race. I promise you; everything will fall in place."