In an inspiring story of cultural exchange, Olakunle Oshodi, a trader based in London, has learned to speak Yoruba primarily through his interactions with Nigerian customers at Woolwich Market. Despite having no familial ties to Nigeria, Oshodi’s curiosity and appreciation for the language have grown over the past three years, largely due to the warm connections he has built with the Yoruba community.

Oshodi, who initially sold fruits and peppers, now focuses on cosmetics and hair products, catering predominantly to Yoruba customers. His journey into the Yoruba language began when he noticed that nearly 95 percent of his clientele spoke the language. "At first, I did not understand what they were saying, so I became curious and started asking them to interpret the words they used," he explained. This curiosity led to a gradual learning process where he picked up words and phrases through everyday conversations.

The trader expressed his fondness for the Yoruba language, describing it as a "sweet language" that he enjoys listening to. His interactions with customers are not just transactional; they are filled with laughter and jokes, which he believes enhance the customer experience. "Yoruba people joke with you and laugh with you. They want happiness, and they are not fake. That is why I love them," he said, highlighting the joy he finds in these exchanges.

Oshodi adopted the Yoruba name "Olakunle Oshodi" given to him by a customer, reflecting the deepening bond he has formed with the community. He noted that speaking Yoruba has positively impacted his business, allowing him to forge stronger relationships with his customers. "When customers realize that I can speak their language, it creates a different kind of relationship. We can joke together, laugh together, and communicate more easily," he stated.

The reactions of his customers when they hear him speak Yoruba are often filled with surprise and delight. "They are shocked, and they laugh. I see them happy, and I laugh with them. Sometimes, they look at me again as if they are trying to confirm whether I really understand what they are saying," he recounted, emphasizing the joy these moments bring.

Oshodi’s commitment to learning Yoruba stems from his genuine interest in the culture and language. He plans to visit Nigeria to experience the culture firsthand, having developed a profound appreciation for it through his interactions in London. "I love the culture. I love Yoruba natives. Even though I have never been to Nigeria, I have developed a love for the culture through the people I meet and the language I have learnt from them," he shared.

As he continues to learn and engage with his customers, Oshodi hopes to further deepen his understanding of Yoruba. He encourages the Yoruba community to know that his interest is sincere and born from a love for the language and its speakers. "I want them to know that I love all of them, and I want to learn more of the language if I can. I speak well, but I only need time. One day, they will see," he concluded, reflecting his dedication to this enriching journey of cultural connection.