Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mary Obilana. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Mary thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful projects Mary Obilana has worked on is my philanthropic work through the Mary O Foundation, particularly her efforts in supporting underserved communities and the homeless population.

The Backstory

Mary’s passion for helping others stems from her deep-rooted belief in the power of Christ, love and compassion. Having witnessed firsthand the struggles of those in need, she felt a calling to take action. Instead of just offering short-term relief, she sought to create long-term solutions by providing food, clothing, mentorship, and empowerment programs.

One of the most impactful moments was organizing a large-scale outreach event where volunteers distributed meals, hygiene kits, and warm clothing to hundreds of homeless individuals be in Houston TX in Dec 2024. Beyond meeting their immediate needs, Mary made sure to engage with them on a personal level—listening to their stories, offering words of encouragement and prayer with her team of volunteer.

Why It’s Meaningful

This project stands out because it reinforced my mission to be a voice of love and change. Seeing the gratitude in people’s eyes and knowing that the little work I do is restoring dignity and hope in their lives makes all the challenges worthwhile. It’s not just about charity; it’s about transforming lives and reminding people that they are seen, valued, and loved.

Her work continues to grow, and through the Mary O Foundation, she remains dedicated to building a legacy of love—one act of kindness at a time.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

About Mary Obilana and Her Music Ministry

I am Mary Obilana, also known as Toyin.O, a Gospel recording artist, philanthropist, and author with a heart for spreading love, faith, and hope through my music. My journey into the music ministry is deeply rooted in my faith and my desire to uplift souls through spirit-filled worship and inspirational melodies. Music has always been a part of me, but my calling to serve through Gospel music became clearer as I saw the impact that uplifting songs can have in transforming lives and drawing people closer to God.

How I Got Into Music Ministry

My passion for music started at a young age, singing in church choirs and leading worship. Over time, I felt a divine call to create and share original songs that speak to the heart and spirit. My music is not just about entertainment—it is a ministry of healing, encouragement, and revival. Every song I write and sing is inspired by my faith journey, life experiences, and my mission to spread the message of God’s love and grace to the world.

My Creative Works and Offerings

I create Gospel and inspirational music that uplifts and encourages believers and seekers alike. My songs blend powerful lyrics with soulful melodies, creating a worship experience that stirs the heart. My work includes:

Recorded Gospel Songs & Albums – Spirit-filled worship and praise songs that inspire faith and devotion.
Albums title:Toyin ( praise)
You are God
God,help me

Live Worship & Concerts – Leading people into God’s presence through heartfelt worship.

Collaborations & Songwriting – Creating and collaborating on music that glorifies God.

Motivational Speaking & Ministry Events – Sharing messages of hope and faith alongside my music.

What Sets Me Apart

My music is rooted in love, authenticity, and a deep connection with God. I believe that worship is more than just singing—it’s a lifestyle and a way to connect hearts to God’s presence. What sets me apart is my commitment to ministering through every note and lyric, ensuring that each song carries a message of hope, healing, and transformation.

What I Am Most Proud Of

I am most proud of the testimonies I receive from people who have been touched by my music. Whether it’s someone finding peace in a time of hardship or rekindling their faith through a song, knowing that my music is making a difference is my greatest reward.

What I Want People to Know About My Work

It’s more than music—it’s a ministry. Every song is created with a purpose: to bring people closer to God.

Love is at the core of everything I do. Whether through music, philanthropy, or writing, my mission is to share God’s love with the world.

I am dedicated to inspiring and uplifting others. My songs are meant to encourage, heal, and restore hope in those who listen.

Through my music ministry, I hope to be a vessel of love, faith, and inspiration, leading people into powerful worship experiences that strengthen their relationship with God. My journey is still unfolding, and I am excited to continue using my voice and platform to spread light and hope to the world.
YouTube: Toyin.O
Instagram: OfficialToyin.O
Facebook: Oluwatoyin music

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A Lesson Mary Obilana Had to Learn and Unlearn as a Gospel Minister

One of the most profound lessons I have learned as a Gospel minister is to not seek fame, but to seek Jesus. My journey in ministry is no longer about recognition or the approval of men—it is about intimacy with Christ.

I had a life-changing encounter with Jesus that taught me this lesson in the most powerful way. One night, while I was sleeping in my room, I heard footsteps approaching me. My back was to the wall, and the door was behind me, but I was the only one in the house with my two young children. The steps kept coming closer and closer, and fear gripped me.

I started calling out, “Jesus! Jesus!” but it felt as if my voice was being swallowed into a vacuum—like my cries had no sound. The fear intensified. Then, suddenly, I heard the sound of many waters. It was as if I was standing in the middle of a mighty waterfall, surrounded by rain and heavenly music. The fear that once consumed me faded away, replaced by an overwhelming peace and beauty.

Then, I heard a voice say, “I am Jesus. I am Jesus.” And just like that, everything went back to normal—except for one thing. My entire body was shaking uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the divine presence I had just experienced.

The Lesson Jesus Taught Me

Through this encounter, Jesus revealed to me that I had to seek Him above all else. He showed me that I did not even recognize His footsteps at first because my focus had been misplaced. If I am to lead people to Jesus through my music and my life, I must first know Him deeply.

I realized that I cannot give what I do not have. If I seek fame or the approval of men, I will never truly know Him. But if I long for Him—if I seek Him with all my heart—then I will find Him (Matthew 6:33).

What I Had to Learn and Unlearn

Unlearn seeking fame – Ministry is not about being known; it is about making Jesus known.

Unlearn seeking the praise of men – My purpose is not to impress the world, but to worship my King.

Learn to sit at the feet of Jesus – My greatest calling is to love Him, know His voice, and worship Him wholeheartedly.

Now, my music and my life are dedicated to pleasing only One—Jesus Christ. I desire to lead people into genuine encounters with Him, just as I had. Because at the end of it all, nothing else matters but Him.
Mathew 6:33- seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all others shall be added until me.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The Most Rewarding Aspect of Being a Gospel Artist

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a Gospel artist is witnessing the transformative power of God’s presence through music. It is knowing that my songs are not just melodies, but vessels of healing, encouragement, and salvation for those who hear them.

1. Seeing Lives Transformed

One of the greatest joys of my ministry is hearing testimonies from people who have been touched by my music. Whether it’s someone finding hope in a season of despair, experiencing divine healing, or rededicating their life to Christ, knowing that God is using me to draw souls closer to Him is priceless.

2. Leading People into Worship

There is nothing more fulfilling than leading people into authentic encounters with God. Seeing hands lifted, tears flowing, and hearts completely surrendered in worship reminds me of why I do what I do. Worship is not just about singing—it’s about ushering people into God’s presence, where burdens are lifted, chains are broken, and lives are forever changed.

3. Growing in My Own Relationship with God

As a Gospel artist, my music is an overflow of my own intimacy with Jesus. The more I seek Him, the deeper my worship becomes. Every song I write, every note I sing, draws me closer to Him. This journey is not just about ministering to others; it is also about my own transformation and walk with God.

4. Spreading the Message of Love and Hope

Music has a way of reaching hearts that words alone cannot. Through my songs, I get to share the unfailing love of God, bringing comfort to the broken, faith to the doubtful, and strength to the weary. Knowing that someone, somewhere, is encountering God through my music is the greatest reward.

5. Fulfilling My Divine Calling

There is no greater joy than walking in purpose. Being a Gospel artist is not just a career—it is a divine assignment. Every time I step on a stage, release a song, or lead worship, I am fulfilling God’s calling on my life. And that, to me, is the most fulfilling thing of all.

At the end of the day, it’s not about fame, recognition, or applause—it’s about bringing glory to God and pointing people to Jesus. That is the true reward of being a Gospel artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.maryofoundation.com
• Instagram: Officialtoyin.o
• Facebook: Oluwatoyinmisic
• Linkedin: Mary O Foundation
• Youtube: Toyin.O

Image Credits

Photo credit Rory Alcantar