As a unique fundraiser for the Rotary Foundation, Rotarian Jide Ogunleye, president of the Rotary Club Omole-Golden shaved his ten-year-old beard.
The event, timed to coincide with his birthday, attracted many supporters and raised a remarkable N5 million.
Inspired by a conversation with a past district governor from the US at the 2023 Rotary International Convention in Australia, Ogunleye decided to make fundraising fun and engaging.
He announced his plan to shave his beard at a club retreat in April 2024, fulfilling his commitment on Saturday.
He explained that the beard, a part of him for a decade, had become a tool to make a positive impact.
Rotary District Governor 9111, Dr. Oluwole Kukoyi, praised Ogunleye’s selflessness, highlighting his dedication to the Rotary Foundation’s global good.
Past Assistant Governor Ezinne Obioha called the act “sacrificial,” emphasizing Ogunleye’s generosity and commitment to helping the less fortunate.
Rotarian Mercy Georgie-Igbafe, a tech professional, commended his innovative and creative approach to fundraising, describing it as pure “service to humanity.”
She was particularly impressed by his intentionality and commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Punch
