Nigerian creative professional Toheeb Popoola says he prefers to describe himself simply as a creative, a passion that emerged despite his parents’ early hopes that he would become an engineer. After unsuccessful attempts to gain admission to study Mass Communication at the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, he opted for Business Management, but financial challenges forced him to prioritise earning a living over formal education.
A turning point came when his father brought home a laptop loaded with Adobe Photoshop 7.0. Curious about the software, Popoola began teaching himself graphic design through experimentation, despite limited internet access and few learning resources. Encouraged by his father, he later explored other creative tools, including Cinema 4D and 3ds Max, gradually developing skills in motion design.
Popoola said the experience transformed his outlook, helping him discover a passion for solving problems through creativity. What began as self directed learning soon became the foundation of a career driven by innovation and continuous growth.
Reflecting on his journey, he said the challenges he faced ultimately shaped his path, turning financial hardship and missed academic opportunities into the motivation to build a successful career in the creative industry.