From Olympics to Tech & Culinary Innovation, Ep. 60 | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast
How can diverse career experiences shape a leader’s approach to innovation and mentorship?
In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Adeola Sokunbi, a visionary program manager, educator, and entrepreneur whose career spans hospitality, sports, entertainment, technology, and law.
From her Nigerian upbringing to working with Coca-Cola during the London 2012 Olympics, Adeola shares her journey of seizing opportunities, navigating transitions, and embracing lifelong learning. She opens up about her pivot into law and technology, her commitment to networking and professional development, and her passion for bridging educational gaps through co-founding the Chef Academy in Atlanta.
⚫This conversation is packed with insights for young professionals, educators, and industry innovators on:
◾Building a career across multiple industries
◾The power of networking and continuous education
◾How mentorship fuels innovation and career success
◾Creating educational programs that address real-world needs
◾Lessons from leading in hospitality, law, tech, and beyond
Whether you are just starting your career or seeking to expand into new industries, Adeola’s story offers practical strategies for growth, adaptability, and impact.
⚫Connect with Adeola:
◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adeolasokunbi/
◾The Navigate Program website: https://navigatefoundation.org/
◾CHEF Academy website: https://www.chefacademyatl.com/
◾AYO Consulting Website: https://www.ayoconsultingco.com/
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Adeola Sokunbi, CIPP/E, Juris Master
Program Manager Driving Security Initiatives | Workforce Development Advocate | Adjunct Professor
Adeola is a Program Manager at Calendly, a leading SaaS company that simplifies scheduling for millions of users worldwide. She currently manages complex projects and high-priority initiatives that support the security, compliance, and data privacy teams. She is also a Certified Information Privacy Professional in Europe (CIPP/E), demonstrating her knowledge and skills in the field of data protection law and regulation.
Before joining Calendly, Adeola spent over ten years in the sports and entertainment industry, where she coordinated logistics for significant events such as the London Olympic Games and the Super Bowl. She also managed several venues in Atlanta's convention district, generating over $1 million in revenue annually through her savvy negotiation skills.
In addition, Adeola is an adjunct professor at Georgia State University, teaching hospitality law to undergraduate students. She is passionate about education, workforce development, and non-profit leadership, and serves as a strategic advisor for the Navigate Foundation, an organization that empowers low-income, high-potential youth.