Toying Lawal

Hi! I’m Toying, Yer, Just call me Toying. I'm a Nigerian-born student in my third year of International Development at the University of Birmingham.
I’m deeply interested in the social and economic structures that shape people’s lives, especially in developing countries. HAPHE’s mission resonates with me because I believe in the power of community and support systems for well-being.

About Me

Random fact: I can tell you the history behind almost every type of tea—my mom owns a tea shop, and I grew up learning the stories behind each blend!
Favorite Quirk: I’m the type of person who sets alarms for things I’m excited about—like a reminder for “first sip of Saturday tea” or “sunset watching time.” It keeps life interesting. Oh, and I sometimes speak in Yoruba when I’m stressed; it just feels more expressive.
Favorite Comfort Food or Song: Comfort food? It has to be puff-puff! Those little Nigerian dough balls make everything better. As for a song, “Ye” by Burna Boy always gives me an energy boost and reminds me of home.
Superpower: If I could have any superpower, I’d choose the ability to pause time—imagine all the books I could read and the skills I could learn! It would be like having a secret stash of hours.
Hobbies or Passions: I’m passionate about West African history and am currently trying to learn the djembe drum. I also enjoy doing photography on weekends, especially in nature. It’s my way of finding peace outside of study and city life.

Three Favorites!

If I could invite any three people to dinner, it would be Chinua Achebe for his storytelling, Malala Yousafzai for her courage and dedication, and Elon Musk just to ask him if he ever actually sleeps. That’d be one memorable evening.