Staff: Feyisola “Jimi” Orekoya

Feyisola “Jimi” Orekoya is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience in program development, management, and community engagement across various sectors. He has a proven track record of designing and implementing impactful programs that serve diverse populations, ranging from youth to seniors, within educational, community-based, and religious organizations.

In his most recent role as Division Director for Community & Center-Based Operations at New Settlement in the Bronx, Jimi managed a multifaceted community campus, which includes three public schools and a community center, serving over 6,000 participants annually. He oversaw the daily operations, financial management of a $3 million budget, and led a team of 58 staff, interns, and volunteers. Jimi was instrumental in launching and expanding numerous programs, including a Teen Leadership initiative, Food Pantry, and Gun Violence Prevention programs. His strategic leadership not only ensured the financial stability of the division but also fostered the development of new revenue streams through grant writing, contract negotiation, and community partnerships.

Jimi’s expertise extends to staff management, where he excels in recruiting, training, and coaching professionals to deliver high-quality services. His ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships has been a cornerstone of his success, resulting in enhanced resources and services for the community. Under his guidance, New Settlement saw a significant increase in community engagement, with patron memberships and program participation growing by 40% annually.

Prior to his current role, Jimi served as Community Center Director at New Settlement, where he led a team of 33 and managed a $1.2 million budget. His innovative approach to program development led to the creation of several new initiatives, including Mixed Martial Arts, STEM Technology, and Senior Adult Wellness programs. His leadership transformed the center’s swim club into a competitive team, achieving notable successes such as the development of five Junior Olympians.

Jimi’s career also includes his work as an Educational Consultant at Dignity of Children, where he provided technical guidance and professional development to after-school directors. His earlier roles at Gun Hill Boys & Girls Club of MMCC and Eliot Community Human Services further demonstrate his ability to manage complex programs and lead teams in delivering essential services to underserved populations.

Beyond his professional roles, Jimi has contributed to the academic community as a guest lecturer at New York City College of Technology, CUNY, and as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Eastern University. His academic background, which includes a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, is complemented by executive certifications in nonprofit leadership from Fordham University and New York University.

Jimi is a passionate and driven leader, dedicated to fostering community development, empowering staff, and creating sustainable, impactful programs. His extensive experience and strategic vision make him an ideal candidate for a Program Director role, where he can continue to drive positive change and deliver high-quality services to the communities he serves.