From Microbiology to becoming a documentary photographer: Zainab Egbewunmi shares her story

 Nigerian women continue to break all odds and challenge themselves. This is Ikejabird reporting from the streets of Ikeja city. I stumbled upon an unusual career story that caught my attention during investigative work. 

The story of Zainab Egbewunmi, who was once a microbiology student walking the halls of her university and looking through microscopes. 

But today, she is working in a big photography company in Lagos while building up her documentary photography career by the side. 

 How did this happen? 

We sat down with Zainab to understand her unexpected path from science to photography.  In this interview, Zainab reveals what first led her into microbiology, even though she was drawn to creative arts.

She shares some fun memories with friends during university that sparked her interest in stories and imagery. Most importantly, Zainab recounts her tough choice to ultimately leave academics to pursue documentary photography.  This is a story you would surely learn from.  

I did not decide to pursue a university degree, the decision was made for me 

 Zainab opened up on  how her family wanted her to be a doctor but she ended up studying microbiology. At school she made some fun memories with friends that made her again interested in creative things like acting and telling stories.  After graduating, Zainab decided not to keep studying science. Instead she followed her dream to become photographer!

– What is your name and what do you do now?

My name is Zainab Egbewunmi and I am a documentary photographer. 

– Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you’re from. 

I’m from Ogun state but I was born and bred in Lagos. I love to read books and watch movies, so storytelling has been a big part of my life. 

– What made you decide to pursue a college/university education? Did you always know what field of study you wanted to focus on?

I won’t say I decided to pursue a university degree, and it was a decision that was made for me. I didn’t put too much thought into the course I wanted to study at the university.

Purpose and Impact Motivates me

What motivates Zainab to get up every morning? Her purpose – the chance to impact lives through her photography. She feels every photo must somehow create positive change now or in the future. This drive gives her energy, even though she considers herself an shy introvert.

– How would you describe your personality and strengths? What motivates you?

Purpose and Impact motivates me. Knowing that the work I do would change someone’s life in the present or future drives. I always want people to feel comfortable and relaxed when they are around me, I would even try to make them laugh, even though I’m not funny. Not everybody can be a comedian, lol.

My educational experience contributed to my career

Even though Zainab did not study photography in university, she says that her time there still helped her career a little bit. 

Being with other students allowed her to make connections and relationships. In fact, one friend from university later told her about a photography job opportunity!

– How would you say your educational experience helped prepare you for the working world, even if in a different industry? What skills do you feel you developed?

I wouldn’t say my educational experience didn’t contribute to experience in the working world. Going to school allowed me to meet people and learn how to network, build relationships and so on. 

In fact, one of my friends recommended the role I’m currently working in as a full-time photographer. However, I would say this, if I relied solely on my educational experience, I wouldn’t be where I am today. 

– What have been some of your professional accomplishments since graduating college/university that you’re most proud of? 

I took 360 career turn into sales while I was still a documentary photographer. So far, I have been able to generate over 50 million in revenue in that role. 

Nigerian universities don’t teach about life; life begins after the walls of school 

She  advised undergraduates to keep an open mind and explore, but not let it negatively impact their academics too much. You must seize opportunities during both good and bad times.

But the key thing is that Nigerian universities do not teach real-world life skills – they focus on book theories. Your true life education starts only when you step outside the school walls and explore.  

Read widely, take online classes, gather knowledge from diverse places. Be curious beyond the classroom. That’s how Zainab found photography could be in her future, despite studying microbiology.

– What advice would you give to current students about exploring different career options, even if not directly related to their major?

I would encourage them to explore further, however not as the detriment of their studies. It’s important to seize every moment we have whether good or bad. 

However, it’s important to note that our Nigerian universities don’t teach about life, it’s all textbook and theory. Your life begins when you expose yourself beyond the walls of school. 

Read books, take online courses, knowledge is new gold. 

– What aspects of your education do you still draw from in your current role? Specific knowledge or ways of thinking?

Lol, I’m sorry to say but none.

5 Lessons from the story of Zainab Egbewunmi 

1. Follow your interests. Zainab originally studied science but found her passion was in creative arts and storytelling. 

2. Be open to new experiences. At university, Zainab acted in a play which reawakened her love of arts. This opened her eyes.

3. Don’t let others limit you. Zainab’s family wanted her to be a doctor but she boldly chose photography instead.  

4. Learning happens outside school too. Zainab says Nigerian universities teach theory. Real life education comes from reading, online courses, etc.

Conclusion

Zainab story is an inspiration to ladies and young youth out there that don’t limit yourselves, always try to learn new things and keep a open minded because you don’t know where you would find yourself