For Ayooluwa (Ayo) Afuape, 30, a career path that started without clear direction has evolved into a leading role driving digital transformation. By studying a CMI Level 5 Diploma in Operational Management, Ayo turned personal barriers - including managing a team significantly older than himself - into strengths, proving that drive and hands-on learning accelerate success.

Leading a multi-generational team

For many young professionals, the journey to a leadership role is less about following a defined path and more about seeking the right opportunities for growth. 

While studying digital marketing at university, Ayo didn't immediately have a specific career in mind. “I wasn't really sure where I was going at first. I worked in multiple different roles and even though I didn’t initially have a clear career path I was always willing to learn and develop. I knew that I loved people management, so that helped to give me a steer."

This drive led Ayo to secure a Digital Transformation Lead position at Newham College, but it came with significant new challenges. Managing a team often meant overcoming the barrier of being the youngest and least experienced person in the room. 

“When you’re young, it feels like you have to prove yourself a bit more. I wasn’t used to leading a team, so I had to learn how to do it properly, but my work ethic always spoke for itself,” he reflects.

Managing colleagues who were older than him required more than just the ability to do his job; he needed high emotional intelligence and a determination to earn respect.

Ayo overcame this by intentionally building trust and demonstrating his support for his team, refusing to let age dictate his authority or ability. “I always try to make sure that everyone feels cared for and that no one is left alone when challenging situations arise. If they need support, I'm always there.”

Adapting leadership styles

Recognising the need to fast-track his leadership skills, Ayo approached his manager, who recommended the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Operational Management. This was the catalyst that accelerated his development. 

“I apply what I learned on the programme directly to my daily work,” he explains.

Even though I was already managing people, I didn’t know the theory behind it until I started studying for the Diploma. It helped me understand different leadership styles and how to lead a team in the right way.

A key takeaway was mastering different ways of communicating and adapting to each team member. When giving sensitive feedback for example, he learned to tailor his approach to the individual, a skill he credits with improving his team management.

“I’ve had many situations where if I’d given feedback in a harsh way, it would have demotivated or upset the team member. So, I’ve learned to be more empathetic and adopt different communication styles depending on who I’m talking to,” he says.

The power of professional recognition

Today, Ayo is nearing the completion of his CMI Diploma, which will automatically grant him eligibility for Foundation Chartered Manager (fCMgr) status - a highly valued professional recognition.

The CMI Diploma and Foundation Chartered Manager status has really helped me establish my leadership skills and given me formal recognition of my abilities.

Looking back, Ayo offers powerful advice to young professionals who may not fit the traditional academic mould or who feel uncertain about their future. “I wasn’t really the best when it came to studying, writing essays or passing exams,” he admits. “However, I had a goal and I wanted to make something of myself regardless. I’d say to any young person, don’t stay stagnant. It’s important as a future leader to keep learning, adapt to different styles of working and put yourself in positions that may feel uncomfortable. That’s how you grow professionally.”  

Ayo's journey proves that the race isn't about where you start, but the determination to keep learning, adapting, and transforming your own experience into lasting leadership success.