From boardroom to sanctuary: Ex-Bank MD pioneers digital ministry, wellness movement

In a striking career pivot that redefines success, Wole Olusola, a former Managing Director at a leading investment firm, has traded financial portfolios for human potential, emerging as an influential voice in life transformation coaching and digital faith-based community building.

Olusola’s journey from the high-stakes world of investment banking, where he served as MD of BGL Asset Management Ltd, to founding a multifaceted ministry and coaching enterprise is a testament to a growing trend of professionals seeking purpose beyond profit.

Since his departure from finance in 2017, his work now resonates with individuals and communities across Nigeria, West Africa, and the globe.

The transition was not an abrupt leap but a strategic shift. Between 2014 and 2016, while still in the corporate world, Olusola equipped himself with certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and professional life coaching.

This foundation in evidence-based psychological principles became the bedrock for his next chapter.

In 2017, he established Pronoia Resources Limited, a Lagos-based firm that leverages his corporate experience to offer training and personal development programs to both organizations and individuals.

Parallel to his coaching career, Olusola’s spiritual leadership was taking root. He founded the Iconic Life Church as a weekly fellowship in 2012. This early endeavor paved the way for the establishment of GraceLife Church in 2016.

Demonstrating a keen adaptability to modern challenges, the congregation made a decisive pivot in December 2020, transitioning entirely to online operations—a move Olusola stated was “responding to evolving community needs.”

The digital shift proved to be a catalyst for global reach. The church’s flagship initiative, the GraceLife Discipleship Program (GDP), has since engaged participants from Nigeria, Ghana, the UK, and the United States. The intensive 35-week curriculum has completed four cohorts, with a fifth currently underway.

Olusola’s vision extends beyond individual spiritual growth to encompass relational and emotional wellness. Together with his wife, Ololade, he co-founded The Exquisite Marriage Company Limited in 2020, focusing on relationship education.

He also runs The Men’s Refinery, a platform dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence and leadership through quarterly workshops.

Experts note the unique synergy in his approach. “The synergy between evidence-based coaching and spiritual formation creates unique value,” said Dr. Adebayo Oke, a Lagos-based psychologist. “His work bridges corporate leadership principles with community wellness practices.”

Armed with a BA in Linguistics from the University of Ibadan and an MBA in Marketing, Olusola brings a structured, strategic mindset to his mission. His upcoming book, Purpose-Driven Transition, scheduled for release in Q1 2025, aims to distill the principles of successful career reinvention for a wider audience, offering a roadmap for others looking to align their professional lives with deeper purpose.