Master of her trades: From Law to Catering, she excels at it all

This conversation is led by Reena of Gloriouswills Ushering Services, GWUS, as part of our Service-A-Tangible Experience series to gather the perspectives of founders, creatives, builders and others on what makes excellent service.

Reena GWUS: Congratulations on your recognition for outstanding Academic Achievement by South Plains College and making the president’s list. You also bagged a certificate for mastering the competencies in Hospitality and Restaurant Management from ServSuccess National Restaurant Association. We at Gloriouswills Ushering Services GWUS are so proud of you and we cannot wait for our community to meet you. A lawyer by training, entrepreneur by action, please introduce yourself. 

Abiola: My name is Abiola Ilesanmi, a trained lawyer, entrepreneur, and service-driven creative. At my core, I am passionate about excellence, people, and creating meaningful experiences. Whether through law or business, my goal has always been to add value and leave people better than I found them.

Reena GWUS: What inspired you to study Law, and how has that shaped your career/entrepreneurship path?

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Abiola: Growing up, I was naturally outspoken. I found myself speaking not just for myself but also for others, especially my siblings. I became the voice in moments when one was needed, advocating for what we all needed. Interestingly, that didn’t stop at home; it followed me everywhere: school, church, and every environment I found myself in.

When it was time to choose a career path, I was torn between public speaking and law. Being spiritually conscious even at a young age, I prayed about it and felt led toward law. I also had a neighbor who was a lawyer and someone I admired closely, and that exposure further strengthened my decision.

Studying law didn’t just give me a profession; it refined who I already was. It sharpened my voice, strengthened my confidence, and gave structure to my natural inclination to advocate. Today, those same qualities show up in my business and in how I relate with people. True, you also started Our Rehoboth Foundation tell us about it.

Abiola: Our Rehoboth Foundation is a Nigerian organization built on advocacy for inmates in Nigerian prisons, supporting them with legal, physical, and spiritual resources.

Reena GWUS: Impressive Tell us more about your work as a partner at Accentuate Firm. What areas of law excite you the most?

Abiola: I have always been drawn to litigation because it gives me the opportunity to stand for people who need help the most. There’s something deeply fulfilling about representing someone’s voice in critical moments.

I also developed a strong love for brief writing. By the time I began practicing, much of legal argument had shifted from oral presentations to written submissions. I found that transition very rewarding, as it allowed me to carefully organize my thoughts and present arguments with clarity and precision.

That said, the few times I had the opportunity to speak in court, I delivered confidently and received very encouraging feedback. I handled several cases and experienced truly heartwarming successes along the way.

While I am not currently in active courtroom practice, I now focus on compliance work, which I find equally meaningful. It’s a different expression of the same purpose—ensuring things are done right and adding value where it matters. Reena GWUS: What motivated you to start Belleful Bakery & Catering Services? What sets your brand apart? Abiola: Entrepreneurship has always been a part of me—it almost feels like it runs in my blood. From a young age, I found myself involved in one business or another.

My journey into catering began in a bold and defining way. While I was in university, my faculty planned a cocktail event for first-year students. I somehow got access to the menu and discovered they needed items like egg rolls and small chops. Without hesitation, I told the student body I could handle the job, even though they had never seen my work before.

I reached out to my sister, who was already actively involved in the business at her school, and invited her over. Together, we executed the job successfully. That moment marked the beginning of my journey in food and catering—and I never stopped.

For me, the first motivation has always been to meet a need. The financial reward is important, but the satisfaction of delivering value comes first.

What sets Belleful apart is my love for people and service. Every product I make is intentional; I want people to taste it and feel that they were thought of in the process. It’s more than just food—it’s an experience crafted with care.

Reena GWUS: What lessons from law school have helped you in running Belleful Bakery?

Abiola: Attending law school was a major turning point for me. It built my confidence in ways I cannot fully explain and made me realize that there are no limits to what I can achieve if I truly set my mind to it.

I was exposed to people from all walks of life—some with international education, some from highly influential backgrounds, and others from very humble beginnings. That environment broadened my worldview and challenged me to rise to a higher standard.

Law school also instilled in me a deep sense of excellence and discipline. It taught me that law is not just a profession but also a powerful tool for structuring and sustaining business success.

All of these lessons have shaped how I run Belleful today. I approach my business with structure, intention, and a commitment to excellence.

Reena GWUS: Tell us about your Academic Achievement at South Plains College and making the President’s List. What lessons stood out for you? Abiola: My journey at South Plains College has been very intentional and, in many ways, deeply personal. It’s a story I would love to share in full when the opportunity presents itself.

What I can say is that I approached it with a mindset of excellence—I knew I had to give it my all. Making the President’s List was a reflection of that commitment.

One major lesson I’ve taken from this experience is that there is absolutely nothing wrong with starting again. Sometimes, starting over is not a setback; it’s an opportunity to rebuild with better knowledge, better tools, and a clearer vision.

This experience has positioned me to operate in the hospitality and catering space on a broader, more global scale, and I’m truly grateful for it. Reena GWUS: Who has been your biggest influence or mentor in both law and business? Abiola: One of my most significant mentors is Pastor Seyi Osanyinbi. He believed in me from a very young age and consistently encouraged me to be thorough, disciplined, and resilient. His influence shaped much of how I approach life today.

My parents have also been a strong influence. As business-minded individuals, they taught me that honesty is non-negotiable and that consistency is key. They showed me that no matter the challenges, staying committed will always yield results.

Above all, my greatest influence is the Holy Spirit. I rely heavily on divine guidance—it directs me, corrects me, and inspires my decisions. It has truly been my compass.

I also draw inspiration from global figures like Aliko Dangote and Folorunsho Alakija. Seeing Mrs. Alakija during my law school days was particularly impactful. It reminded me that greatness is possible, and I believe strongly that I am called to make that level of impact in my generation.

Reena GWUS: How do you stay motivated while juggling multiple responsibilities?

Abiola: For me, motivation comes from purpose and responsibility. Whenever I am called to serve—whether in business, family, or any other area—I rise to the occasion.

My goals keep me grounded and focused. I know I haven’t reached the peak of what I am capable of, and that awareness keeps the fire burning within me.

No matter how demanding life gets, I remain committed to growth, impact, and excellence. That mindset is what keeps me going.

Reena GWUS: What advice would you give to a young person who wants to pursue both a professional career and entrepreneurship?

Abiola: You can absolutely do both. It requires discipline, clarity, and consistency—but it is very possible. I always encourage people to be enterprising, and beyond encouragement, I’m always willing to support in any way I can.

Dream boldly, commit fully, and give your vision your best effort. With time and consistency, the results will speak for themselves.

Reena GWUS: If you could describe your journey in one word, what would it be and why?

Abiola: Fascinating. 

Because every step of the journey, whether planned or unexpected, has shaped me, stretched me, and revealed new possibilities about who I am and what I can become. 

Reena GWUS: Is there anything else you would love to share with GWUS? Abiola: Thank you so much for this opportunity. It truly feels like a spotlight, bringing my story to life, even the parts that may have gone unseen or untold. I deeply appreciate it. 

I believe strongly in Gloriouswills Ushering Services and its vision. I have always said this brand is built for global impact, and I have no doubt it will continue to grow into a force to be reckoned with.

As for Belleful Catering Services, we are still evolving. There is so much more ahead, and the best is yet to come, so please watch out.

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