THE STORY OF IYA THE BEST
Her Life & Legacy
A Life of Purpose, Determination, Service and Love
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THE STORY OF IYA THE BEST
Mrs Bolanle Folashade Akinsola
Mrs Bolanle Folashade Akinsola
(née Yewande)
(née Yewande)
18 February 1955 – 9 October 2026
Affectionately known as Iya the Best, she was a woman of remarkable strength, dedication to education, selflessness and an enduring commitment to the wellbeing of others.
Her life was defined not only by what she accomplished, but also by the people she encouraged, the children she educated and the love she extended to those around her.
A Woman of Strength
A Woman of Strength
Ọ̀bìnrin bí Ọkùnrin
Ọ̀bìnrin bí Ọkùnrin
To those who knew her, Iya the Best embodied the Yoruba expression Ọ̀bìnrin bí Ọkùnrin - a woman of extraordinary strength, courage and determination.
She was hardworking, resourceful and purposeful. When something needed to be done, she found a way to get it done.
She faced life's responsibilities with determination and believed in the value of perseverance, discipline and hard work.
Her strength was not only reflected in what she achieved for herself, but also in her willingness to support and make a difference in the lives of others.
She was a woman of action, a woman of purpose and a woman whose strength inspired those around her.
Her Years at Wapco Staff School
Her Years at Wapco Staff School
A Passion for Education and Academic Excellence
A Passion for Education and Academic Excellence
Education was an important part of Iya the Best's life and legacy.
As Headteacher of Wapco Staff School, Sagamu, she demonstrated a deep commitment to the development of children and the importance of academic achievement.
She believed that education could open doors and create opportunities for a brighter future.
Her dedication extended beyond the classroom and the school environment.
One particularly cherished memory is of how she opened her home to children, helping them prepare for their common entrance examinations.
She wanted children to do well, to believe in themselves and to have the opportunity to succeed.
These acts of dedication reflected her passion for education and her willingness to invest her time and effort in the development of young minds.
To her, teaching was more than a profession. It was an opportunity to nurture potential and influence lives.
Founding The Best International School
Agura, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria Founding The Best International School
An Educator, a Visionary and a School Founder
An Educator, a Visionary and a School Founder
Her journey in education continued with another significant achievement: the establishment of The Best International School, located in Agura, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria.
As the Founder and Proprietress, Mrs Bolanle Folashade Akinsola brought her commitment to education into an institution of her own.
The establishment of the school represented another chapter in her dedication to nurturing young minds and creating opportunities for learning.
She continued to serve as Proprietress until her passing on 9 October 2026.
The Best International School remains an important part of the story of her life's work and accomplishments.
Her journey from Headteacher to School Founder reflects the determination, dedication and vision that characterised her life.
An educator by profession, a founder through determination, and a woman whose contributions to education form a lasting part of her legacy.
A Mother to Many
and her lasting legacy A Mother to Many
A Heart That Welcomed Others
A Heart That Welcomed Others
Beyond her professional achievements, Iya the Best was remembered for her warmth, generosity and the care she extended to others.
She was more than a mother figure within her family. Her nurturing spirit reached people beyond her immediate household.
She opened her doors to children, gave her time to others and believed in helping those around her.
To the people she loved and nurtured, she was a source of guidance, encouragement and strength.
Affectionately known as Iya the Best, she was remembered as a selfless woman whose dedication to others was an important part of who she was.
Her love was expressed not only through words, but through her actions, sacrifices and willingness to give of herself.
A mother to many. A teacher to generations. A woman of extraordinary strength.
A Legacy That Lives On
A Legacy That Lives On
We wish she had stayed longer to enjoy the fruits of her labour.
Yet the measure of a meaningful life is not only found in the years lived, but also in the love shared, the opportunities created and the lives touched.
Her memory continues through her family, her former pupils, her colleagues, the school she founded and everyone privileged to have known her.
Though her absence leaves an emptiness words cannot fully express, the beautiful memories she gave us remain.
Iya the Best, your strength inspired us, your love nurtured us and your legacy will continue to speak through the lives you touched.
Forever Loved. Forever Cherished. Forever Remembered.
Forever Loved. Forever Cherished. Forever Remembered.
Her Story Lives Through Us
Her Story Lives Through Us
Every memory helps preserve the remarkable legacy of Iya the Best.
Were you a former pupil, colleague, friend or family member? We invite you to share how she touched your life.
All submissions are reviewed before publication.
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