“The future is data-driven, but the heart behind the data is what makes all the difference.”
— Damilare Olutimehin
FROM NIGERIA TO THE WORLD
Building a Career on Curiosity, Purpose, and Precision
Before his name appeared on global platforms or in award citations, Damilare Olutimehin’s journey began quietly in Nigeria — in classrooms, field assignments, and data labs where he was simply obsessed with solving problems.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Damilare’s first academic milestone came from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in 2017. But for him, the degree wasn’t the final destination — it was only the beginning of a much bigger story.
“Every role I’ve taken on has been about learning, experimenting, and delivering real results — that’s always been my mindset.”
— Damilare Olutimehin
EARLY CAREER: FINDING VALUE IN EVERY DATASET
His first major role came with Airtel Nigeria in 2018, where he served as a Market Developer. Far from the technical world of data science, this was a frontline business role. Yet, Damilare proved his versatility by driving Airtel’s revenue in Kwara State’s Isin Local Government Area from ₦500 million to ₦750 million in just two months — a feat that underscored his ability to turn insights into results.
But his heart was set on more technical pursuits.
In 2019, Damilare stepped into the healthcare industry as an IT Admin and Research Assistant at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Ogun State. It was here that his passion for data’s real-world impact took root.
He was instrumental in managing patient data, analysing mental health records, and supporting the training of primary healthcare workers across Ogun State on identifying and treating mental health disorders like depression, psychosis, epilepsy, and substance abuse.
CROSSING BORDERS: A GLOBAL PURSUIT OF DATA MASTERY
Driven by a desire to deepen his technical expertise, Damilare secured admission to Ulster University, UK, in 2022 for a Master’s degree in Data Science. Graduating with commendation in 2023, his time at Ulster was marked by research-driven projects that pushed boundaries and solved real-life problems.
His notable projects include:
- Machine learning models for predicting liver cirrhosis stages
- Analysis of anti-social behaviour trends in Northern Ireland
- Predicting obesity risks for improved healthcare decisions
- Machine learning forecasts for flight delays in the US
- Risk management analytics in renewable energy financing within the US energy sector
These projects not only reflected his growing technical arsenal but also his passion for using data as a tool for improving lives and industries.
“Data is everywhere. But data without context or empathy is just noise. My focus has always been on making data actionable and human-centered.”
— Damilare Olutimehin
BUILDING A GLOBAL PRESENCE
Beyond academia, Damilare’s reputation was rising in professional circles. He became an active member of respected global bodies, including:
- The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
- The Royal Statistical Society
- The International Society for Data Science and Analytics
He further bolstered his skills with certifications from IBM in Data Analytics, sharpening his ability to deploy industry-leading tools like Python, R, SQL, Power BI, and MATLAB.
AWARD SPOTLIGHT
Winner: Dratech International Innovation Award — Data Innovation Excellence Award
In recognition of his contributions to the field of data science and his impressive portfolio of research-driven projects, Damilare Olutimehin was honoured with the Dratech International Innovation Award for Data Innovation Excellence — a prestigious recognition celebrating African talents making a global impact through technology and data-driven solutions.
This award cemented his status as one of Africa’s emerging tech leaders shaping the future of data innovation.
LOOKING AHEAD: THE STORY CONTINUES…
Today, Damilare is expanding his horizons further as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Austin Peay State University, USA, where he is also pursuing a second Master’s degree in Data Management & Analysis.
From Nigeria to the UK and now the USA, his journey speaks to a rare combination of technical brilliance, global perspective, and a deep passion for real-world impact.
“Data can solve problems. But people — passionate, curious, and dedicated people — are what bring data to life.”
— Damilare Olutimehin
QUICK FACTS
| Key Projects | Machine Learning in Healthcare, Renewable Energy Analytics, Flight Delay Predictions |
| Tools of Trade | Python, R, SQL, Power BI, MATLAB |
| Awards | Dratech International Innovation Award – Data Innovation Excellence Award |
| Memberships | ACM, Royal Statistical Society, International Society for Data Science and Analytics |
| Current Role | Graduate Teaching Assistant, Austin Peay State University, USA |
CONCLUSION
Damilare Olutimehin’s story is not just one of personal ambition — it is a powerful testament to the possibilities that emerge when talent meets hard work, purpose, and vision. From his humble beginnings in Nigeria to breaking new grounds in data science on a global stage, Damilare has carved a path defined by consistency, curiosity, and the courage to dream beyond borders.
His career journey — from driving business growth at Airtel Nigeria to applying data for mental healthcare solutions at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, and later, advancing research-driven projects across healthcare, energy, and aviation sectors in the UK — reflects a young professional who understands that knowledge is most valuable when used to solve real problems.
What stands out most about Damilare is his ability to remain grounded in purpose while mastering highly technical skills. His expertise in machine learning, data analytics, and statistical modelling has not only earned him academic commendations but also global recognition, culminating in the prestigious Dratech International Innovation Award for Data Innovation Excellence — a deserved honour that celebrates Nigerians in the diaspora who are making significant contributions in their fields.
Through Dratech International, Damilare’s recognition sends a clear message to millions of young Nigerians — that global excellence is achievable without losing sight of one’s roots. It is a reminder that the future belongs to those who are willing to learn relentlessly, embrace challenges, and remain committed to creating impact, no matter where they find themselves.
As he continues his academic pursuit in the United States and deepens his professional footprint in data science, Damilare Olutimehin remains a shining example of what is possible when passion meets discipline. His story is proof that the journey to global relevance does not require shortcuts — it requires vision, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to growth.
For every young Nigerian aspiring to step into the world of technology, data science, or global innovation, Damilare’s journey offers more than inspiration — it offers a blueprint: Start small. Stay curious. Be intentional. And most importantly, never stop building.
Because in the end, true excellence is not just about where you come from — it’s about where you are determined to go.
