In a celebration of heritage, leadership, and diasporic reconnection, Dr. Jessica Wilson-Dorsey, an American academic and cultural advocate, has been officially conferred with the Yoruba name Yeye Ajewole Aderinsola Jessica Wilson-Dorsey and the prestigious Omoluabi Royal Icon (ORI) title of Yeye Ataiyese Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye.
The recognition, presented by the Yoruba Council Worldwide, honors Dr. Wilson-Dorsey’s global service and cultural advocacy, particularly her unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage across borders. The conferment took place on June 25, 2025, marking what she described as “a royal honor that deeply touched my spirit and affirmed the ancestral call on my life.”
“This is not just a title,” she shared in a heartfelt statement. “It is a spiritual mantle. It’s a confirmation that the work we do in healing, leading, and preserving our ancestral wisdom is not in vain.”
The Yoruba Council Worldwide, through its president Aare Oladotun Hassan, has been instrumental in identifying and celebrating torchbearers of Yoruba values and global cultural diplomacy. Dr. Wilson-Dorsey’s recognition is rooted in the philosophy of Omoluabi, a Yoruba ideal of integrity, humility, service, and wisdom.
In her formal letter of acceptance, she reaffirmed her commitment to upholding those values: “It is my prayer and pledge that through this honor, I may continue to support the preservation of Yoruba traditions, promote unity across the diaspora, and serve as a cultural bridge for generations to come.”
Her journey to this recognition has been marked by years of advocacy, education, and leadership, including her role within Theta Phi Sigma Christian Sorority, Inc., where she is affectionately known as “BADD Girl.” Her work has centered on empowering women, bridging cultural divides, and encouraging spiritual identity through heritage.
Dr. Wilson-Dorsey also expressed deep gratitude to her Nigerian brother, Egbe Emmanuel Chinedu, for his support during the nomination process and for helping her reconnect with her Yoruba roots.
