Fesojaiye night
Description
Step into an evening of art, storytelling, advocacy, and human connection at the inaugural FESOJAIYE Night in Calgary.
Rooted in community and care, this first gathering brings people together for a powerful conversation on mental health, dementia awareness, caregiving, and healing. FESOJAIYE Night creates an intimate space where art becomes a bridge for deeper understanding, reflection, and collective action.
Renowned speakers will guide guests through an illuminating evening; unpacking what dementia is, the realities of living with it, common myths, and practical ways to support those affected, followed by an open Q&A. The evening will also highlight real stories from people living with dementia, their caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
The evening will also feature an art exhibition and silent auction, with proceeds supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area (BBBS). Dementia does not only affect the person diagnosed, it reshapes entire families. Children who grow up with a grandparent or parent living with dementia often face emotional challenges, social isolation, and a loss of connection that can be difficult to navigate alone. BBBS of Calgary and Area provides young people with consistent, caring mentors who offer the stability, guidance, and support that family illness can sometimes disrupt. By donating to BBBS of Calgary and Area, proceeds from this event extend our commitment beyond awareness, directly investing in the wellbeing of the next generation affected by dementia in our community.
Join us for an unforgettable night of portraits, conversation, culture, and purpose, where stories are honoured, awareness is raised, and community comes together for a cause that touches us.
About Fesojaiye
FESOJAIYE was born from the desire of two brothers (Samuel and Tunde Obadero) to celebrate and honour the living legacy of their father, Mr. Emmanuel Olayiwola Obadero (aka Fesojaiye, CEO Of Fesojaiye Cabinet Maker) who lives with and continues to fight dementia every day.
As a photographer, Sam has always understood the power of art to tell stories, bring people together, and shine a light on causes that matter. FESOJAIYE Nights was created with that purpose in mind, launching an annual event series dedicated to meaningful conversations, community connection, and impact.
Through photography, spoken word, mixed media, painting, and other art forms, FESOJAIYE brings communities together to drive advocacy, raise awareness, and support important causes connected to mental health, dementia, caregiving, and community wellbeing.
Agenda
Networking over Hors d'oeuvres and cocktails
Fireside Chat by Dr. Zo
Spoken Word by Samuel Obadero
Art Exhibition and Auction
Fireside chat by Ayanna Smart, RD
Lineup
Dr. Arinze Onwumelu (popularly known as Dr. Zo)
Dr. Zo is a medical doctor, health educator, and trusted community voice known for making health conversations simple, practical, and relatable. Through his growing platforms on Instagram and YouTube, he uses his influence to educate families and communities on important topics around health, family life, discipline, and everyday wellbeing. At FESOJAIYE Night, Dr. Zo will bring his medical insight and approachable communication style to the conversation on mental health, dementia awareness, caregiving, and community support. His ability to break down complex health topics in a clear and meaningful way will help guests better understand the realities of dementia, challenge common misconceptions, and explore practical ways to support individuals and families affected by it. With a passion for education, prevention, and community empowerment, Dr. Zo’s contribution will help create an engaging and compassionate space where awareness is raised, questions are welcomed, and people leave better informed and more connected.
Ayanna Smart, RD
Ayanna Smart, RD Ayanna Smart is a Registered Dietitian specializing in dementia care and nutrition. Through her platform, The Dementia Dietitian, she provides practical, evidence-based guidance to caregivers and families supporting loved ones living with dementia. Her work focuses on making mealtimes less stressful, improving nutrition, addressing unintended weight loss, and helping families navigate common challenges such as appetite changes, chewing and swallowing difficulties, and dementia-related food behaviours. With years of clinical experience supporting people at different stages of their dementia journey, Ayanna brings both professional expertise and deep compassion to the conversation. At FESOJAIYE Night, she will help guests better understand the important connection between dementia, nutrition, caregiving, and quality of life. Her approachable and culturally aware guidance empowers caregivers with practical tools they can use in everyday life, while creating space for more honest conversations about the realities families face when caring for someone living with dementia.
Grand Komanda
Grand Komanda is a dynamic comedian, professional MC, and community entertainer known for bringing humour, confidence, and high-energy engagement to every stage he steps on. With a strong presence across social media and live events, he has built a reputation for connecting with audiences through wit, charisma, and an unforgettable stage presence. As the MC for FESOJAIYE Night, Grand Komanda will guide the evening with warmth and cultural flair, helping create a welcoming atmosphere for a night of art, storytelling, advocacy, and meaningful conversation. His ability to energize a room while keeping the program flowing will help guests feel engaged, connected, and part of the shared experience. Bringing together entertainment and professionalism, Grand Komanda will help set the tone for an unforgettable evening rooted in community, culture, purpose, and human connection.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity