About World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference

World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference has been a beloved event in the community for over a century. Founded in 1901, it started as a small gathering and quickly grew to become one of the biggest and most popular events in the region. Over the years, we have evolved and adapted to meet the changing needs of our community, but our commitment to providing a fun and memorable experience for all has never wavered.

Omoyiwola Akinfolarin is the Founder and Chairperson of the World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference (WYCSHC). A global gathering created to preserve, celebrate, and elevate the cultural and spiritual legacy of the Yoruba people. 

Guided by a deep connection to Ìṣẹ̀ṣe traditions and a lifelong commitment to cultural renaissance, she established the WYCSHC as an international platform for practitioners, scholars, leaders, creatives, and diaspora communities to learn, connect, and strengthen Yoruba identity worldwide.

Omoyiwola brings over 17 years of diverse professional experience across management consulting, finance, youth & family services, community development, education, and entrepreneurship. Her multidisciplinary background gives her a unique perspective on leadership, community empowerment, and cultural advocacy. 

In addition to her work with the conference, she serves as a Counselor, Employment Specialist, and College Instructor, supporting individuals and families in achieving stability, growth, and purpose. With a Bachelors in Computer with Economics, a Masters degree in Economics, a Diploma in Addictions & Community Services, a second Diploma in Youth & Family Services, an ongoing Masters degree in Social Work as well as several certifications and trainings, she has armed herself with the requisite tools for the journey into her calling as a Community Leader and Healer. She is also the CEO of Ajoke African Store Ltd in Canada as well as Skypath Global Services in Abuja, Nigeria.

A proud Yoruba woman, born in Lagos, Nigeria, and a committed custodian of ancestral knowledge, Omoyiwola is passionate about promoting spiritual authenticity, cultural preservation, and global unity within the Yoruba world. Her work bridges traditional wisdom with modern systems, creating spaces where heritage is not only honored but actively advanced.

Through her vision and leadership, the World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference's goal is to become a powerful international movement, amplifying Yoruba voices, strengthening diaspora connections, and showcasing the depth, beauty, and global relevance of Yoruba civilization.

OLUWANBEPELUMI A. Pelumi-Folarin is the co-convener of the World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference, and one of the most influential contemporary voices in the global resurgence of Yoruba spirituality, African identity, and ancestral knowledge. A distinguished Babalawo, Teacher, Public Speaker, Writer, and Filmmaker, he stands at the intersection of spiritual depth, cultural scholarship, and creative excellence.

As CEO of AfroFilm Herald Times Ltd. (www.afrofilmtimes.com), Pelumi-Folarin leads an Afrocentric media powerhouse dedicated to elevating African cinema, reclaiming indigenous narratives, and amplifying authentic cultural expression. Through journalism, film critique, and cultural commentary, AfroFilm Herald Times has grown into a respected platform shaping conversations around African film and creative identity.

He is also the founder of AfroSoul Place of Natural Wellness Resort Ltd., a premier centre for ancestral healing, spiritual grounding, and natural wellness. Through the AfroSoul Mentorship Class, he mentors individuals in Yoruba spirituality, personal transformation, purpose discovery, and cultural reawakening — helping a new generation reconnect with the wisdom of their roots.

As a filmmaker trained at Africa Film Academy and EbonyLife Creative Academy, he is the writer, director, and producer of Tani and the multiple award-winning film Illusion. His creative work merges spirituality, philosophy, and cinematic storytelling in a way that resonates deeply with African and global audiences.

Across digital platforms, Pelumi-Folarin expands his influence through thought-provoking cultural education. On TikTok — via the AfroFilm Herald Times account (https://www.tiktok.com/@afrofilmheraldtimes?_r=1&_t=ZN-91l1BD8EaFq) — he reaches thousands with bold, enlightening conversations on African emancipation, Yoruba cosmology, cultural memory, and societal transformation.

Across all his work, OLUWANBEPELUMI A. Pelumi-Folarin embodies a clear mission: to restore Africa’s spiritual dignity, elevate indigenous knowledge, and empower people to reclaim their identity, destiny, and collective future.

Olubukola Ogunbanwo serves as the Events Procurement & Logistics Coordinator for the World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference (WYCSHC), bringing structure, excellence, and seamless execution to every aspect of the event. 

With a strong background in event management,  supply chain management and logistics coordination, as well as multicultural program delivery. Olubukola plays a key role in ensuring that the conference operates with precision, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.

Known for exceptional organizational skills, strategic planning, and an eye for detail, she oversees protocol planning, and overall event flow. Her ability to balance large-scale logistics with a deep respect for Yoruba cultural and spiritual traditions makes her an invaluable member of the leadership team.

Olubukola has worked across diverse sectors including government, private and international programs, giving them a rich understanding of how to manage complex, high-profile events with confidence and grace. Her expertise ensures that every participant, invited guest, spiritual leader, and attendee experiences the conference in its highest form.

Dedicated, resourceful, and solutions-oriented, Olubukola is passionate about supporting the vision of the World Yoruba Cultural & Spiritual Heritage Conference and contributing to a world-class platform that uplifts Yoruba identity and strengthens global cultural connections.