Tolu Adeleye

Tolu Adeleye is the co-founder and Executive Director of AJ Tennis Academy International (AJTAI), a non-profit organization dedicated to using tennis as a means to help children in emerging economies achieve their potential.12

Background and Personal Journey

Born in the United States, Tolu Adeleye grew up in Nigeria. At the age of 15, he made the bold decision to return to the U.S. and support himself, leaving his family behind.1 This experience likely shaped his drive and determination to create opportunities for others.

Vision and Mission

Adeleye's vision for AJTAI is to build a world-class tennis academy in an emerging country, providing new opportunities for children.1 He believes that opportunity is fundamentally about inspiration and opening people's eyes to their own potential.1 This philosophy drives his work at the academy.

Recent Activities

In recent years, Adeleye has been actively working towards expanding the reach of AJTAI:

1. He has traveled to approximately 15 countries in Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Rwanda, Kenya, and Congo, to meet with tennis authorities and share his vision.1

2. AJTAI planned to host around 3,000 children in their second installment of "A Better Africa Through Tennis" in October (year unspecified).4

Personal Challenges

A few years ago, Adeleye was involved in a car accident that left him with a significant brain injury. Despite still recovering from this setback, he continues to travel and work towards his dream for the Academy.1

Role at AJTAI

As the Executive Director, Adeleye dedicates approximately 10 hours per week to AJTAI in a volunteer (unpaid) capacity.23 He is also a member of the Board of Directors.2

Tolu Adeleye's passion for tennis and his commitment to creating opportunities for young people in emerging economies continue to drive his work at AJ Tennis Academy International.