David’s Captivating Story: A Sickle Cell Warrior Who Is Inspiring Other Patients With His Creativity

Welcome to another episode of Inside Pay4Me. We have David Olaniyan, our Creative Intern and a sickle cell warrior who dreamed of flying Airbus but became a computer scientist.

In this chat, David tells us his daily life, his Pay4me story, and some interesting things about him. 

Hello David, can we meet you?

Hi, my name is David, a final year Lead City University Ibadan student studying Computer Science.

People don't know I am a Warrior" (a sickle cell patient). I love to design and play games. 

Where do you find inspiration?

I surf the internet reading about people that have achieved great things in the fields of my interest, watch inspiring shows like the TED talk, and go through the work of people I look up to.

What are your earliest memories of dealing with sickle cell disease?

I was always sick in primary school so much that I missed exams, and sometimes I had to write them in a hospital bed if I didn't get better on time. Although I did not know the cause of my frequent sickness because I was too young to understand.

How do you stay positive during your crisis?

I have a supportive family that encourages me and friends that stand by me when I'm going through pain.

Do you get support from Pay4Me in your low moments?

Yes, ever since I joined Pay4Me, the team members have been kind and treated me like family, as they treat each other. For example, I had a crisis a couple of months back, and they showered me with calls and prayers. In addition, they supported me throughout the period.

What do you have to tell someone living with Sickle Cell?

It is not a death sentence. Do not see yourself as a lesser person, stand strong and keep improving yourself.

What was your childhood dream?

I wanted to be a pilot at a very young age.

Did you achieve it? What stopped you from being a pilot? Do you still have plans to fly?

No, I did not achieve it. I didn't bother to chase the dream because when I understood sickle cell and that I am a warrior, I wanted to become a medical doctor to help people like me. But I discovered that there were other ways for me to help people like me. No, not really.

What's your Pay4Me story, and how long have you been here?

I joined Pay4Me in March 2022 through a sister company, Across The Horizon and I have enjoyed working in the Company ever since. The product, Pay4Me App, has provided a borderless payment platform for thousands of its users.

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” ―Theodore Roosevelt

Pay4Me simplifies international payments so students can pay in their local currency and have their fees processed in minutes.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

My typical day involves classes. Some days, I start my workday reviewing the previous designs made. Then, I proceed to research design inspiration and look for new ways to make our social media designs better than the previous ones better. Finally, I work on content assigned to me by the design team.

What's your most exciting moment in Pay4Me?

My most exciting moment was the day I was told my design would be published on the Company's social media. As an intern, I started with learning sessions with the Company's Creative Designer, and my designs were reviewed. Getting to have my design on the Company's social media means progress.

How has working at Pay4Me made you a better employee?

Working at Pay4Me has taught me the importance of team communication and has helped me improve my skills.

What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?

Don't stress. Don't try to rush things, take it one step at a time. Form good habits, as motivation can only help you take the first step. Network with like minds, and don't stop chasing your dream.