Title: Living For a Higher Purpose
Author: Titilola Vivour Adeniyi
Year of Publication: 2022
Number of Pages: 244
Category: Memoir
When people write about their journey in public service, the image that comes to mind is often someone older perhaps a man or woman with a touch of grey hair and a pair of reading glasses. So it’s a surprise when you flip to the back of ‘Living for a Higher Purpose’ and find that its author, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, is none of these things. Instead, you’re met with the image of a youthful, Gen Z-looking woman with striking poise and confidence. That alone sparks curiosity: What could someone so young have to say about life in public service? That question is what makes this eye-opening book so captivating.
Almost immediately, you’re met with a stream of accolades poured on the author and her work. It’s enough to make you pause and wonder: What kind of impact has this woman made or is still making? As you read on, Titilola begins to reveal her journey with quiet grace, never boastful, always grounded. While the title ‘Living for a Higher Purpose’ might initially sound a bit cliché, the content proves otherwise. This book is a goldmine of thoughtful reflections, especially for young people looking to build meaningful careers in public service.
One of the most striking qualities of this book is the depth of information it offers. Raw, honest, and necessary. You know those issues women are often too ashamed to talk about, the ones wrapped in stigma and spoken about in hushed tones? That’s exactly what this easy-to-read book brings to the forefront. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities not because they’re easy to confront, but because this is the work she does every single day. From domestic violence to rape, she gives voice to painful experiences that many would rather ignore. Through this book, she doesn’t just tell stories, she builds awareness and fuels empathy.
If you live in Nigeria, you understand how hard it is to thrive in public service. Yet, this book doesn’t just highlight the difficulties, it teaches you how to navigate the system with purpose and resilience. Her story is inspiring. While it may encourage some to pursue service in government, it may also open others’ eyes to the uphill battles involved. One thing is clear: the road wasn’t easy for Titilola and she doesn’t pretend otherwise.
She takes us back to where it all began. How what started as a “baby project” grew into something powerful. And let’s be honest: there’s no way she could have achieved all she has without unwavering conviction and grit. As we like to say, if e easy, run am.
Her passion leaps off the pages, and you can’t help but feel fired up. You might even find yourself wanting to join her fight against sexual and domestic violence in Lagos State. Her achievements don’t just impress you, they stir something in you.
There are moments that move you emotionally. You’ll smile when she shares a win, and maybe even cry when she pours out her pain over having her ideas dismissed or ignored. You don’t just read her story, you feel it.
Adding depth to the book are photographs, real snapshots of the work she’s done. These images validate her words. They’re not just stories; they’re evidence.
And the testimonies? The real-life stories shared by domestic violence survivors are a powerful reminder that her work isn’t just an idea; it’s transformational. These are not exaggerated tales or empty praise. They are lived experiences that prove the reach and impact of her mission. In fact, one can’t help but wish she’d write an entire book focused solely on the survivors’ stories because there’s so much more the world needs to hear.
In the end, Living for a Higher Purpose is not just a book; it is a legacy. A powerful expression of purpose and impact in public service. Whether you’re a young professional or an aspiring change maker, this book is for you.
About the reviewer
Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the Publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: titi.oyemade@gmail.com Social: @tiipreeofficial
