Adebola ‘REZ’ Afolabi

A visionary leader at the intersection of digital innovation, business strategy, and cultural transformation. With nearly two decades of experience, he is the Founder and Chief Curator of Griots and Bards (GAB), a platform dedicated to redefining African storytelling and cultural expression. Through GAB, REZ is working to build a space that merges traditional African values with the power of digital technology, creating a unique community where creativity, cultural heritage, and modern discourse converge.

With a strong foundation in business leadership, strategy consulting, and project management, REZ has successfully managed large-scale transformations, optimized business processes, and delivered growth for multinational corporations and government agencies across Africa and Europe. He has worked with major brands such as SAP Africa & EMEA, Coca-Cola Hellenic, and Deloitte, advising clients like NNPC, Kenya Pipeline, Royal Swazi Sugar, and Shoprite Group Africa on digital transformation, business strategy, and project delivery. His expertise in digital transformation and product innovation positions him as a transformative leader in business, advisory, digital and cultural spaces.

At GAB, REZ is driving a bold vision to reshape how African stories and voices are shared on the global stage. GAB is a community-centered initiative that aims to foster collaboration, mentorship, and socio-conscious dialogue, while using the power of digital tools to ensure that African narratives are not only preserved but evolve with modern-day influences. Through GAB, REZ is creating a space where creativity, culture, and business intersect, building a platform that will connect diverse generations and industries, inspire action, and drive social change across the continent and beyond.

A celebrated poet, writer, and performer, REZ has brought his artistic work to global stages, including performances in Cape Town, Nairobi, Paris, and Germany, with thought-provoking publications such as Beautiful-One, Exposit, and Cold and Frostrated. His collaborations with high-profile brands like Nokia, Heritage Bank, Noah’s Ark, Providus Bank, and Alliance Française, as well as cultural institutions like Magnet Theatre (South Africa) and Spokenword Paris, reflect his deep engagement with both cultural and corporate narratives. His leadership at GAB has been instrumental in amplifying African voices, with GAB hosting major cultural events such as the Lagos International Poetry Festival (in partnership with the British Council) and the Lagos Books and Arts Festival. GAB is evolving to become a digitized African Village Square, staying true to REZ’s original vision of creating a digital and physical space where African stories and voices can thrive in the modern world.