From the heart of Ondo State, Nigeria, comes a story of resilience, passion, and transformation. Tawose Babatunde TeeMillz, the youngest of four siblings, has risen above life’s challenges to carve a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the determination to follow one’s true calling. In this edition of “In Their Shoes,” we take an intimate look into the life of Tawose, exploring the experiences that have shaped him and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
A Unique Childhood
Tawose’s early life was anything but typical. Growing up in Ondo State, he was exposed to the rough streets, witnessing both the harsh realities and the vibrant culture around him. These experiences played a pivotal role in shaping his character and instilling in him the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges.
“My childhood was unique,” Tawose reflects. “I was exposed to a lot on the streets, but those experiences moulded me into the person I am today.”
Music as a Turning Point
For Tawose, music became a beacon of hope. Recording his first song was a life-changing moment that ignited a deep passion within him. However, as time went on, he realized that his true talents lay not in performing, but in managing and organizing within the entertainment industry.
“My first song was the turning point,” he recalls. “It opened my eyes to the world of entertainment, but I later realized that singing wasn’t my path. Entertainment as a whole is where my heart lies.”
A Traumatic Past
One of the most difficult moments in Tawose’s life occurred when he was just 10 years old. He was sexually assaulted by a woman much older than him, an experience that has continued to affect his outlook on life.
“It’s something I’ll never forget,” Tawose shares quietly. “It shaped my mentality, and it’s something I carry with me every day. But it’s also made me stronger and more determined to succeed.”
From Music to Entertainment PR
Despite his love for music, Tawose eventually shifted his focus to entertainment management. He once pursued a career as a musician but found his true calling behind the scenes as a PR and event organizer. This transition allowed him to combine his passion for entertainment with his natural ability to manage and coordinate events.
“I started as an artist, but I soon realized I had a stronger talent for organizing and managing others in the entertainment space,” he explains. “It was a tough decision, but it’s one that’s led to my growth.”
Learning from Mistakes
One of the most important lessons Tawose has learned came from a business deal gone wrong. He accepted partial payment for an event and covered the balance himself, only for the artist to arrive late, causing a significant financial loss.
“That experience was a tough lesson,” Tawose admits. “I learned that business transactions need to be handled properly from the start. Full payment upfront, or no deal at all.”
The Power of Supportive Relationships
Tawose credits much of his success to the positive people around him. He surrounds himself with individuals who believe in him, support his goals, and offer encouragement during difficult times. This strong network has helped him stay grounded while pursuing his career.
“I’m lucky to have people who truly believe in me,” he says. “Their support keeps me going, even when things get tough.”
Staying Grounded Amidst Self-Doubt
Like many in the entertainment industry, Tawose has faced moments of self-doubt. However, he has found that positivity and surrounding himself with good energy help him stay grounded and focused on his goals.
“I deal with self-doubt by focusing on the positive,” he shares. “I keep good energy around me, and that helps me push through any insecurities.”
Looking Ahead
As Tawose continues to grow in the entertainment industry, he looks forward to collaborating with A-list entertainers both locally and internationally. His vision for the future is clear, and his dedication to his craft remains unwavering.
“I’m excited about what’s next,” he says with a smile. “Collaborating with top entertainers is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Advice for Aspiring Creatives
Tawose’s journey is full of lessons, but the one he emphasizes most is the importance of persistence. He believes that passion, when combined with dedication and resilience, can lead to success, even in the face of rejection and failure.
“My advice is simple—never give up on your passion,” he says. “Keep pushing, even when it feels like no one’s listening. Your time will come.”
Conclusion
Tawose Babatunde’s story is one of resilience, growth, and unwavering belief in oneself. From a childhood filled with challenges to finding his way in the entertainment industry, he has learned to turn obstacles into opportunities. His journey reminds us that success is not a destination, but a continuous process of learning, evolving, and staying true to one’s passion.
As we walk in Tawose Babatunde’s shoes, we are reminded that every challenge we face can be an opportunity for growth, and with determination, we can carve out our path, no matter the odds.
