Beyond the Baskets: Michael Afolaranmi’s 50-Year Legacy of Empowerment
By Moriam Musa
As Michael Owolabi Afolaranmi, the visionary CEO of 12 Baskets Foods, marked his 50th birthday recently , his celebration extends far beyond personal achievement. I was a profound moment to highlight his extensive philanthropy and mentorship, deeply rooted in a desire to pay forward the divine grace that shaped his own journey. Afolaranmi, who is also an ordained assistant pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), embodies a unique fusion of faith and entrepreneurial drive, dedicating his later years to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian talent.
The genesis of his philanthropic endeavors can be traced to his own humble beginnings and the biblical story of 12 baskets of leftovers—a powerful symbol of abundance and God’s provision, which inspired the very name of his successful catering company. Recognizing that his rise from “frying puff-puff” to building a multi-million naira conglomerate was divinely aided, Michael established the Michael Afolaranmi (MA) Foundation.This foundation is not merely a charitable gesture; it’s a dream extension of his soul, driven by the profound conviction that he “was helped by God alone. So now I must help others—not with talk, but with tools.”
The core mission of the MA Foundation is to empower Nigerian youth through free entrepreneurial training and support. This initiative directly addresses the critical need for skill development and economic independence among young people in Nigeria. By equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the practical knowledge and resources he gained through his own journey, Afolaranmi is actively combating unemployment and fostering a culture of self-reliance. He is providing the very “tools” that can transform ideas into viable businesses, just as he did with 12 Baskets.
Furthermore, his role as a pastor deeply influences his approach to mentorship. He frequently engages with young people, teaching them the invaluable principles of purpose, persistence, and hard work, often drawing from his compelling personal narrative. He believes that “poverty is a thing of the mind” and that true wealth lies in empowering others. This philosophy is manifested not just through the foundation but also through platforms like the upcoming “A Date with Michael Afolaranmi” online series, where he will share success principles and leadership insights.
As he steps into his fifth decade, Michael Afolaranmi’s legacy is clearly defined by his commitment to lifting others. His philanthropic efforts and mentorship programs are vital contributions to youth empowerment in Nigeria, fostering a new generation of innovative and purposeful leaders. Through the MA Foundation, Michael Afolaranmi ensures that his remarkable journey of turning small beginnings into a flourishing empire continues to impact and inspire countless lives, one empowered youth at a time.
