Ifedolapo Runsewe: Transforming Waste into Wealth

Meet Ifedolapo Runsewe, a visionary entrepreneur and the Managing Director of Freee Recycle Limited (Formerly Freetown Waste), a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable waste management and recycling in Nigeria. With a passion for environmental conservation, Ifedolapo has turned discarded tires into valuable, eco-friendly products, making significant contributions to the reduction of pollution in her community.

Early Life and Education: Ifedolapo, a proud indigene of Ogun State, embarked on her academic journey at Madonna University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Economics in 2007. Driven by a desire to make a positive impact on society, she furthered her studies at the University of Lagos, obtaining a Master's degree in Public and International Affairs in 2019.

Professional Journey: Ifedolapo's professional journey is marked by a wealth of experience in the banking sector. She served at Zenith Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc, and Guaranty Trust Bank, gaining expertise in funds transfer, branch operations, and retail branch management. Her commitment to excellence led her to various leadership roles, including Branch Manager and Branch Service Manager.

Freee Recycle Limited: In 2019, Ifedolapo took a bold step by transitioning from the banking sector to the world of environmental sustainability. She assumed the role of Managing Director at Freee Recycle Limited, where she spearheaded the transformation of old tires, often referred to as Nigeria's "black gold," into reusable, eco-friendly rubber molded products.

Under Ifedolapo's leadership, Freee Recycle Limited has thrived. The company relies on a network of scavengers to collect old tires, paying them for their valuable contributions to waste reduction. The industrial plant, located in Apata, Ibadan, Oyo State, has become a hub for innovation, producing paving bricks, floor tiles, flip-flops, exercise balls, yoga mats, and other goods in high demand across Nigeria.

Vision for the Future: Ifedolapo's vision extends beyond tire recycling. Freee Recycle Limited plans to expand and diversify into recycling used paper and electronic waste. Her commitment to creating a sustainable and circular economy showcases her dedication to environmental stewardship and community development.

Recognition and Certification: Ifedolapo's impact on the green landscape has not gone unnoticed. She was featured as a green trailblazer and holds the Designate Compliance Professional (DCP) certification from the Compliance Institute, Nigeria, issued in August 2019. Ifedolapo Runsewe has been honored with the Woman of Merit Gold Award as a recognition of her noteworthy contributions to national development in the field of Innovative Waste Management, specifically in Recycled Rubber Manufacturing. This accolade is a part of the prestigious 21st PSR National Awards.

Philanthropy: Engaging in numerous philanthropic initiatives, Ifedolapo has actively collaborated with organizations like Balaah Hope Initiative for Child Adolescent Health Limited GTE. This non-profit, non-governmental organization is driven by a passion for educating and advocating health services for adolescents, with the overarching goal of enhancing the well-being of Nigerian children.

Ifedolapo Runsewe's journey from the banking sector to the helm of Freee Recycle Limited exemplifies the transformative power of passion and dedication. Her commitment to turning waste into wealth contributes to environmental conservation and inspires a new generation of eco-conscious entrepreneurs. Ifedolapo stands as a beacon of change, proving that one person can make a significant difference in the world with vision and determination.