Bridging Theory and Practice to Inspire Future Leaders in Technology
Esther Oluwabusayo Folorunso is a source of inspiration to women and anyone who has the vision to make the world a better place to live. An author, mentor and technologist, she is the author of the book Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries.’ This project stemmed from her realisation that there was a need for a comprehensive guide that bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications. She has also served as a reviewer for the Business Intelligence Group Awards, a technology judge for the GLOBEE Awards, and a peer reviewer for the International Institute of Business Analysis alongside other industry judging opportunities.
Her journey is a blend of experiences that have shaped her into a successful self today and contributed to her growth as a business analyst and technology enthusiast. From a young age, she was captivated by the potential of technology to transform lives and businesses. This fascination led her to pursue a career where she could blend her passion for technology with her analytical skills.
Esther has worked across various industries throughout her career, each presenting unique challenges and learning opportunities. Her role as the Vice President of Technology at the International Institute of Business Analysis, Tampa Bay Chapter, has been particularly rewarding. She oversees technology initiatives, drives digital transformation, and leads committees focused on website and technology migration. This position has allowed her to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and industry best practices.
At Mt. Hood Community College, where she also serves as an IT Business/Data Analyst, one of the most fulfilling aspects of her job is collaborating with stakeholders to develop technology projects that benefit the academic community. On the academic front, she holds an MBA in Management Information Systems from Fort Hays State University, a Postgraduate Program in Business Analysis from Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Entrepreneurial Studies from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
Throughout her career, she has built diverse projects and initiatives centred around business analysis, focusing on bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. One of her key accomplishments is the publication of “Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries.” She says, “Recognizing a market need for a comprehensive resource, I aimed to provide actionable insights and practical tools to help professionals enhance their business analysis practices. Beyond my book, I’ve contributed to the field through articles, book chapters, and leadership roles. My work spans industries like technology, higher education, government, and finance, demonstrating my adaptability and expertise in various domains.”
According to Esther, no career path is a smooth sailing one-on-one challenge and a key strength for her is the constant evolution of technology and business landscapes. She invests time in continuous learning and upskilling to stay ahead of the curve and firmly believes in hard work plus the Almighty. She remarks, “I also foster a culture of innovation within my team, encouraging experimentation and exploration of new technologies. By staying adaptable and embracing change, I’ve successfully navigated these dynamic environments.”
For her, leadership is about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential. She elaborates, “A true leader should focus on creating more leaders than followers. By fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning, a leader can cultivate the skills and confidence in others to take initiative, make decisions, and lead their teams. This approach strengthens the organisation and ensures sustainable growth and innovation.”
Esther’s inspiration stems from a lifelong fascination with the intersection of technology and human ingenuity. From a young age, she was captivated by technology’s potential to transform lives and drive progress. Throughout her career, she has witnessed firsthand how technological advancements can streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and drive business success. This belief fuels her desire to continuously learn and adapt, ensuring she stays at the forefront of industry trends and best practices.
As a leader in the field, she is committed to mentoring the next generation of business analysts and technologists, sharing her experiences and insights to inspire them to pursue careers in technology. Additionally, she is passionate about creating impactful resources that bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. Her ultimate goal is to use technology to empower others and positively impact the world.
Esther also regularly mentors teenagers, sharing her journey and insights to inspire them to pursue careers in technology and business analysis. She says, “This mentorship is incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to give back to the community and help shape the future of our industry. My passion for technology and business analysis and my commitment to mentorship drives me to continuously learn, adapt, and innovate. Each experience has enriched my understanding and equipped me with the skills to drive transformation and excellence in every role I undertake.”
