FROM LUXURY EVENTS TO EDUCATION AND FINANCE, SHE IS SETTING NEW STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE AND INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS

In a world where entrepreneurship is often measured only by profit margins, Elizabeth Osinowo Obisanya stands as a shining example of purpose-driven success. A visionary leader with over three decades of impact, she has built more than businesses — she has built experiences, institutions, and opportunities that continue to shape lives across Nigeria. From the refined world of luxury events to the transformative space of education and the empowering reach of finance, her journey reflects resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

As the MD/CEO of Elizabeth Events and Foods, founder of Divine Covenant Schools, and a strong force behind financial empowerment through Landgold Microfinance Bank, Elizabeth represents a rare blend of creativity, leadership, and social impact. Her story is one of bold reinvention, disciplined growth, and a deep belief that true success lies in lifting others along the way. In this exclusive conversation, she shares the passion, principles, and vision that continue to drive her remarkable legacy.
In this edition of Elitist Magazine – Entrepreneurship, we spotlight Elizabeth Osinowo Obisanya, a dynamic entrepreneur whose influence reaches far beyond luxury hospitality. With a career spanning over three decades, she has built a legacy rooted in excellence, innovation, and community impact. From unforgettable events to shaping young minds and empowering businesses financially, Elizabeth represents the true essence of modern Nigerian entrepreneurship.

“True entrepreneurship is not just about building businesses—it’s about shaping communities, inspiring generations, and leaving a legacy that lasts.”

Q & A WITH ELIZABETH OSINOWO OBISANYA

CAN YOU SHARE THE STORY BEHIND ELIZABETH EVENTS AND FOODS?
Elizabeth
My journey started in 1992 with Shade Catering and Rentals Services, a modest business built on passion, resilience, and a strong desire to serve people with excellence. Over time, I realized that events were more than food and decoration — they were emotional milestones that deserved creativity, elegance, and thoughtful planning. That realization inspired me to evolve beyond traditional catering into crafting complete luxury experiences.

In 2019, we rebranded as Elizabeth Events and Foods to reflect this growth. Today, we focus on bespoke catering, sophisticated styling, and premium event management. The journey has been one of continuous learning, innovation, and a commitment to raising standards in the hospitality industry.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR APPROACH TO LUXURY EVENTS AND CATERING?
Elizabeth:
I am inspired by the emotions behind every celebration. Each event represents a story, a dream, or a major life moment, and I see my work as bringing those emotions to life through elegance and creativity. For me, luxury is not just about appearance — it is about thoughtful details, seamless coordination, and creating an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

WHAT SETS YOUR BRAND APART IN SUCH A COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY?
Elizabeth:
What distinguishes us is our commitment to personalization and excellence. We take time to truly understand each client’s vision and transform it into a unique experience rather than offering standard packages. Our clients know that when they choose us, they are choosing professionalism, reliability, and a team that genuinely cares about delivering perfection.

Beyond service delivery, we build relationships. People trust us not just with their events but with their memories, and that responsibility drives us to consistently go above and beyond expectations.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN SUCH HIGH STANDARDS ACROSS YOUR TEAM?
Elizabeth:
I believe excellence starts with leadership. I invest in training, mentorship, and clear communication so my team understands both the vision and the values behind our brand. When people feel empowered and appreciated, they naturally give their best, and over time excellence becomes a culture rather than a rule.

YOU ARE ALSO PASSIONATE ABOUT EDUCATION. TELL US ABOUT DIVINE COVENANT SCHOOLS.
Elizabeth:
Divine Covenant Schools was founded in 1993 out of my deep belief that education shapes the future of individuals and nations. The school provides holistic learning from Nursery to Secondary level, with a strong focus not only on academic excellence but also on discipline, leadership, and moral values. I wanted to build an institution that nurtures confident, well-rounded children who can thrive anywhere in the world.
Watching our students grow into responsible and accomplished young people is one of my greatest joys. Education, to me, is another way of creating meaningful and lasting impact.

“Education, like events, is about creating experiences that transform lives.”

HOW DO YOU CONNECT YOUR WORK IN HOSPITALITY WITH YOUR ROLE IN EDUCATION?
Elizabeth:
Both fields may appear different, but they share the same foundation — shaping experiences that influence lives. In hospitality, we create unforgettable moments; in education, we help shape futures. Both require vision, patience, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence.

YOUR INFLUENCE ALSO TOUCHES FINANCE THROUGH LANDGOLD MICROFINANCE BANK. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO YOU?
Elizabeth:
Financial empowerment plays a critical role in community development. Through Landgold Microfinance Bank, we help small businesses and individuals access the financial support they need to grow. Many talented entrepreneurs struggle not because of lack of ideas, but because of limited access to funding and guidance.

Being part of an institution that helps bridge that gap is very meaningful to me. Entrepreneurship should not be a personal success story alone — it should create opportunities for others to rise as well.

WHAT MAJOR CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
Elizabeth:
Like every entrepreneur, I have faced challenges ranging from economic fluctuations to evolving customer expectations and industry competition. Each challenge required adaptability, innovation, and the courage to make tough decisions while staying true to my vision.

Those experiences strengthened my resilience and taught me the value of patience and teamwork. Challenges are never comfortable, but they often prepare you for the next level of growth.

RECENTLY YOU CELEBRATED YOUR GOLDEN AGE. PLEASE TELL US HOW YOU FEEL TURNING 50 AND WHAT LESSONS LIFE HAS TAUGHT YOU SO FAR?
Elizabeth:
Life at 50: My Experience
At 50, I’ve learned that confidence is quieter but much deeper. I no longer seek validation from others because I carry my own self-worth. Beauty, for me, has shifted from mere appearance to peace, poise, and purpose. I’ve also discovered that saying no is not wicked; it is wisdom.

Work and life have taught me resilience. I’ve balanced ambition with faith, deadlines with devotion, and strength with surrender. I’ve realized that success isn’t about how busy you are, but how aligned you are with your purpose.
Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned at this stage of life include:
Self-respect is power; you don’t shrink to be loved.
Rest is not laziness; it is obedience.
Time is the most expensive currency — spend it wisely.
Not everyone meant to walk with you can walk into your future.
God’s timing is always better than human pressure.
Peace has become my new definition of success.
My story is my ministry.
Turning 50 has been a journey of reflection, growth, and understanding that life is about alignment, purpose, and living with grace.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG NIGERIANS ASPIRING TO BECOME ENTREPRENEURS AND LEADERS?
Elizabeth:
My advice is simple but powerful: stay focused on your vision, be patient, and never compromise on integrity. Success is a journey, not a destination, and it requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn from both failures and successes.
Don’t be afraid to dream boldly. Nigeria is full of opportunities, but it takes courage, creativity, and persistence to seize them.

Build something meaningful that not only brings personal success but also positively impacts your community. Surround yourself with people who inspire growth, invest in your skills, and remember that the legacy you leave is far more important than temporary achievements.

CONCLUSION
Elizabeth Osinowo Obisanya’s journey proves that entrepreneurship is most powerful when it is driven by purpose. Through Elizabeth Events and Foods, Divine Covenant Schools, and her connection to Landgold Microfinance Bank, she continues to influence industries, empower communities, and inspire future leaders. Her story is not just one of business success — it is a story of vision, legacy, and meaningful impact that will be felt for generations to come.