Yomi Adegoke’s Successful Writing Career: How She Did It

In the past decade, Nigerian culture has skyrocketed onto the global stage, with a new wave of talented individuals sharing our stories through various art forms. One of these remarkable figures is Yomi Adegoke, whose journey to becoming a renowned writer is nothing short of inspirational.

Yomi didn’t set out to be a writer initially. She pursued a law degree at Warwick University, but her passion for pop culture led her to start a blog as a side project. Little did she know, this small endeavor would shape her entire career trajectory. From writing for Channel 4 to The i Paper, the Telegraph, and now the Guardian, Yomi has established herself as a respected voice in the field.

Her book, “The List,” released in 2023, delves into the complexities of the #MeToo movement during the era of anonymous lists outing perpetrators. The book quickly became a bestseller and is now in the process of being adapted into a TV series by HBO Max, the BBC, and A24, with Yomi serving as an executive producer.

In this week’s #MadeinNigeria feature, Yomi sheds light on her journey, from starting a magazine at just 20 to addressing critical issues within the #MeToo movement and beyond.

Yomi discovered her passion for writing while at university but didn’t seriously consider it as a career option until a friend pointed out her potential in pop culture journalism. This revelation opened up a new world of possibilities for her, challenging the notion that creative pursuits can’t lead to financial stability.

After facing countless rejections from traditional media outlets, Yomi took matters into her own hands. She launched Birthday Magazine, a publication aimed at empowering young black women and girls in a media landscape that often overlooked their voices. Distributing copies in local hair salons, Yomi used this project as a testament to her writing abilities, eventually gaining the recognition she deserved.

Despite the industry’s initial reluctance to embrace her unique perspective, Yomi remained steadfast in her mission to amplify underrepresented voices. She tackled issues of race, gender, and music genres like Afrobeats and Grime, which were often marginalized by mainstream media. Through her bold and authentic storytelling, Yomi challenged the status quo and paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive narrative landscape.

Looking back on her journey, Yomi recalls the joy and fulfillment she found in building Birthday Magazine from the ground up. Each issue represented a triumph of creativity and resilience, proving that sometimes the best opportunities are the ones we create for ourselves.

As Yomi continues to break barriers and inspire others with her work, she serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring writers and cultural commentators worldwide. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and unwavering dedication to one’s craft.