More than one way to see: An Albion intern’s perspective

“It takes one man to change everything.” – Sanya Olukanni

My dad has quoted that to me my entire life. My name is Tim Olukanni, and I am a rising senior at Georgia Gwinnett College, majoring in marketing. When I’m not studying, I am the president of

the Marketing Club and an ambassador on the School of Business Torch Team, and a member of my college’s chess club. However, one of my greatest passions is performing stand-up comedy. One thing to know about me is that I am blind. Being blind is a significant part of my identity, but it took me a long time to accept it. Growing up, I was often told that because I could see very little, I wasn’t truly blind. However, being able to see a basketball two inches from my face doesn’t negate my blindness. Coming to terms with my disability was challenging. I initially believed in the common misconceptions about blindness, and this made me doubt my potential. I often wondered what this would mean for my future. Little did I know this was about to change.

Tim Olukanni (left) is meeting Kathryn Webster (right), founder and president of the Together Achieving Dreams Foundation.

In October 2018, my perspective changed when I met a man named Syed at a blind convention. While there, he showed me that anything was possible despite my disability. On his advice, I attended the Louisiana Center for the Blind to improve my non-visual skills. Among some of these lessons, I learned how to utilize learning technology like screen readers to use my phone and computer efficiently. I also learned how to cook and clean non-visually. After attending the Louisiana Center for the Blind, I can confidently say that I am capable of living independently as a blind person.

One morning, I was awoken by a friend telling me we were late for our flight to the blind leadership seminar in February 2019. In my fatigue, I unknowingly dressed in a mismatched outfit— a hoodie, tie, basketball shorts, dress shoes, and basketball socks. Despite this, we made the flight on time. Once we arrived at the leadership seminar I was introduced to Kathryn Webster, President of the National Association for Blind Students (NABS). Over time, our friendship grew, and she introduced me to the TAD program. Together Achieving Dreams (TAD) is an organization dedicated to assisting blind students pursuing careers in business or law. TAD helps these students secure internships and supports their overall career development. The program involves flying students to a central location where they engage in a variety of learning experiences designed to teach them how to navigate their careers as blind individuals.  The organization provides long-term support by assigning mentors who assist students throughout their journey. The comprehensive programming ensures that students are well-prepared for both professional and personal success.

“When I was introduced to Tim Olukanni through the National Federation of the Blind, I was impressed by his confidence, humor, and ambitious nature. Tim has a unique ability to connect with people, bond with strangers, and continually expand his intellectual capacity. He exemplifies a leader who will not let anything stand in his way,” said Kathryn.

Tim Olukanni (right) with Albion CEO, Brian Newsome (left) at TAD Gala in 2024

TAD taught me a range of skills, such as negotiation and presentation. I had the opportunity to work with high-profile business professionals and learn non-visual ways to conduct myself in various settings. Kathryn even invited me to speak at the TAD Gala in February 2024, where I shared my story and love for TAD. To my surprise, that evening I received an internship offer as a marketing intern at Albion General Contractors.

When I started my internship at Albion in May 2024, I was nervous, but Laura Garrett, my supervisor and Director of Business Development eased my fears by giving me a thorough tour of the office. During my internship, I engaged in market research, and campaign development, and attended site visits at our active projects and other marketing initiatives. This experience has been irreplaceable and has developed me into a capable young professional.

“We have enjoyed the energy Tim brought to our marketing team. His perspective and feedback has enhanced our ideas. We hope Tim will apply his on-the-job experiences as he moves forward, ” said Laura.

Albion General Contractors has provided me with indispensable experience, making it difficult to pinpoint where to even start. I enhanced my digital marketing skills by crafting captions for social media posts and writing blogs, which significantly improved my writing abilities. I also had the chance to conduct market research for upcoming career fairs and comprise market data for future use. My time at Albion was genuinely enjoyable; the environment was supportive. I never felt like just another intern; I truly felt like a valued team member. Whenever I spoke up, my contributions were genuinely heard and appreciated, which I deeply value.

Reflecting on my journey, I am amazed at how far I’ve come. I once thought I’d do nothing with my life, but now I see a bright future ahead. If my younger self could see me now, he would be shocked but ultimately proud, with a big smile on his face. I want to thank Albion and TAD for supporting me on my journey so far. Your support has made me realize that this is not the end, but only the beginning.