Tolu Ekisola
Actor, Educator, and Organizational Leader
About Me
Hello! I’m Feyintoluwa Ekisola—Tolu for short.
As an actor, educator, and organizational leader, I am dedicated to fostering equitable environments and driving systemic change through creativity and collaboration.
Rooted in Dual Cultures.
Born in Nigeria and raised in Minnesota, I embrace the identity of being “Naijasotan.” This bicultural experience has granted me a broad worldview and a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. It also ignited my passion for understanding human behavior, leading me to study psychology and the arts.
The Arts as a Catalyst for Empathy and Communication.
My background in theater has been instrumental in honing my empathy and communication skills. Acting requires stepping into others’ experiences, fostering a profound understanding of varied human conditions. Collaborative artistic endeavors have taught me to navigate complex group dynamics and communicate effectively across diverse populations.
Academic Pursuits and Advocacy in Action.
I hold a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from the University of Minnesota Duluth and an M.F.A. in Acting from the University of California, Irvine. During my graduate studies, I often found myself as the sole person of color in academic settings, prompting me to advocate for increased representation in curricula and productions. In response to a Title IX violation at UCI, I co-founded and served as President of Students Mobilizing Change (SMC), focusing on student safety and institutional accountability. This experience underscored the importance of inclusive leadership and the power of collective action.
Founding CAARE: A Commitment to Equity.
Recognizing the systemic disparities affecting marginalized communities, I established the CAARE Production Company and Outreach Center. CAARE aims to address educational, criminal justice, and environmental inequities through strategic initiatives, community engagement, and public-facing communications. Our work involves developing DEI strategies, facilitating workshops, and implementing metrics to foster inclusive organizational cultures.
Theme by Design Lab