Esther Oluwatosin Ajayi, Miss Earth Nigeria 2022 and founder of XBEM and the XBEM Foundation, is steadily carving a legacy defined by humanitarian service, youth empowerment, and environmental advocacy, as her long-held vision for vulnerable children begins to take concrete shape.
Ajayi, who represented Nigeria at the Miss Earth World Pageant in Manila, Philippines, emerged among the Top 12 finalists globally an achievement that elevated her profile and strengthened her commitment to sustainability, community development, and social responsibility.
“Winning the crown was only the beginning,” she said. “The real work started when I returned home.”
Beyond pageantry, Ajayi’s journey into empowerment began in 2017 with the establishment of XBEM (Xterberry Entertainment and Modeling Ltd), an entertainment and talent development company focused on grooming young creatives for the film, fashion, and music industries. Through structured training, mentorship, and industry exposure, XBEM has helped prepare emerging talents with the professionalism and discipline required to succeed in the competitive entertainment space.
However, Ajayi’s vision extended beyond talent development. In 2022, following her return to Nigeria and alignment with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she launched the XBEM Foundation (Xterberry Empowerment and Mission Foundation), the humanitarian arm of XBEM Ltd.
The foundation provides care, protection, and opportunities for children aged six months to 18 years without parental care. These children lost support through death or abandonment.
Ajayi said a deeply personal dream inspired the initiative. She often heard critics describe her plan to build an orphanage as unrealistic.
“Our mission is simple,” she said. “We provide shelter, food, education, protection, dignity, and hope while promoting environmental sustainability.”
Since inception, the XBEM Foundation has executed several outreach programmes across Lagos and nearby communities. These efforts include youth empowerment at the University of Lagos.
The foundation also conducted food and welfare distribution in Makoko. Additionally, it organized girl-child empowerment programmes in Surulere.
It further carried out community outreaches in Bariga. Moreover, it hosted large-scale empowerment events in Epe.
During 2023, the foundation achieved a major milestone by acquiring land in Ibadan, Oyo State. This acquisition marked the first concrete step toward a permanent children’s home.
The foundation secured another land parcel in Epe, Lagos State, during 2024. It also hosted its official launch and end-of-year community celebration there.
By 2025, the foundation reached a major turning point. With support from partner Le Dynasty Acres Ranch, it secured all required legal approvals.
Afterward, the foundation commenced construction on the Epe site. Leaders described the project as a commitment to children’s education, stability, and hope.
Ajayi credited strategic partners, volunteers, and donors for the progress. They contributed funds, resources, and unwavering support.
“What began as a personal vision has grown into a collective mission,” she said.
As construction continues, the XBEM Foundation remains focused on expanding its impact. Ajayi believes persistence can transform impossible dreams into lasting legacies of service.
