Oluwatomilayo Adeponle's ultimate goal to raise awareness about nutrition, a healthier lifestyle and improve public health in Nigeria
Especially for the MFS programme, Oluwatomilayo Adeponle – who also goes by ‘Tomilayo’ – made her first trip from Nigeria to Europe. Now with one year left in the programme, she’s confident it will help her realise her goal
Tell us a bit about your background, studies, and career path?
Tomilayo: ‘Growing up, I learned that a healthy diet can prevent many diseases, especially conditions like high blood pressure and high blood sugar.
This sparked my interest in understanding how nutrition can help fight non-communicable diseases.
After earning my degree in Food Science, I gained hands-on experience in product development and process optimisation at a bakery production company.
I then spent a few years in the banking sector to develop new skills, especially in customer service.’
What led you back to the food industry and the MFS programme?
‘My passion for nutrition and sustainable food never faded.
While looking for academic opportunities, a friend sent me the link to the MFS programme, and I decided to apply. Thankfully, I got in.’
What courses are you taking?
‘Since I’m interested in nutrition and healthy living, I chose the path of personalised nutrition, food structure, quality, and sustainable food processing.
One of the programme’s highlights is studying at different universities across Europe.
In my first semester at the University of Reading, I focused on the basics of nutrition and its link to health.
My second semester at Aarhus University in Denmark was all about Food Structure and Enzymes.
I explored how food processing and technology impact the quality of products like meat, milk, and plant-based foods. I really enjoy the mix of theory and practical lab sessions, where we test and analyse food.’
What’s on the menu for this year?
‘I was supposed to head to the University of Lund in Sweden, but visa issues changed that plan.
So instead, I’ll be returning to Reading, where I can take similar courses on sustainable practices.’
“Long-term, I’d love to contribute to health policy-making in Nigeria. That way I could have the biggest impact.”
How has your experience in the programme been so far? How has it helped you grow?
‘Moving between countries has taught me problem-solving and adaptability.
It has also boosted my ability to communicate across different cultures.
The online classes and case studies with EIT Food have exposed me to global food system challenges. I’ve learned more about food security in developing countries and the environmental impact of agriculture on food sustainability.
The programme has also helped develop my entrepreneurial skills, and I’ve met people from all over the world, from lecturers and professionals to fellow students.
It has given me the opportunity to improve my ability to collaborate toward shared goals by embracing individual differences and promoting inclusivity.’
What are your career plans after the programme?
‘My aim is to help people make healthier life choices and improve public health in Nigeria.
Many Nigerians aren’t aware of the nutrients lost in how they prepare their food.
By their late thirties, some already have high blood pressure due to poor diets that are heavy on carbohydrates and fried foods.
My plan is to start as a nutritionist, offering webinars and seminars on healthy eating.
Later, I’d like to start my own company focused on helping young adults manage high blood pressure. This could involve school programmes, cooking demos, and mentoring sessions.
Long-term, I’d love to contribute to health policy-making in Nigeria. That way I could have the biggest impact.’
Would you recommend the programme to others?
‘Absolutely. It has exceeded my expectations: the courses are excellent, and I’ve built a strong professional network and made lasting friendships.
EIT Food also offers other programmes, so I’ll definitely be looking for more opportunities to learn even after I graduate.’