Oluwafemi David Ojo-Abegunde is a student leader who advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, while calling upon others to confront systemic racism, poverty, and food insecurity. David’s journey was forged by the challenges he faced as a newly arrived immigrant in Canada from Nigeria. As one of the only Black children in his middle school, he felt like an outsider, who was forced to “fit in.” Everything changed when he was encouraged by another newcomer to find his voice and push back against racial stereotypes.
Upon arriving in high school, David quickly transformed his resolve into action. After experiencing his school’s Black History Month assembly in Grade 9, David noticed there was no student to maintain the upkeep. Fueled with determination to change that future, David has since committed himself to advocacy. From co-leading donation drives that support local middle schools, to volunteering with the Salvation Army and Boys & Girls Club, David has worked to ease the various barriers that cause poverty, while simultaneously empowering his schoolmates with his equity and anti-racism work.
Today, David proudly serves his fellow students as President of his student council, Editor-in-Chief of his school’s yearbook, and Co-President of Club H.O.P.E, a volunteering club with the goals of “helping other people everywhere”. He has organized various cultural markets, led Black History Month events, and hosted an anti-racism panel where he moderated conversations with influential leaders. Beyond school, David has had the opportunity to tutor newcomers in English at the YMCA, volunteered at a seniors’ home, and represents youth on the ASD-S Student Leaders Council, where he advocates for student-focused policy and district-wide education. Guided by a willful heart to ensure others belong, David channels his dedication into building thriving communities where no young person feels left behind.