Timothy Olaniyi
President,
Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Timothy Olaniyi is the President, Co-Founder, and Chief Executive Officer of Selah Seminary, where he leads with a vision to transform Christian leadership through holistic discipleship. With a background rooted in strategic ministry leadership, he has dedicated his life to pioneering innovative approaches in theological education. Timothy’s qualifications include hands-on experience in digital ministry transformation, leadership development, and fostering community engagement within the African Pentecostal tradition. His leadership extends beyond the seminary, as he is committed to equipping ministry leaders with the tools to heal, thrive, and pioneer transformative ministries.
More about Timothy…
Growing up as the son of Shola Olaniyi, founder of Christ My Rock International Ministries, Timothy was immersed in ministry from a young age, taking on roles that ranged from ushering to supporting church initiatives. In 2020, after a profound encounter with God, he began serving full-time and played a key role in the church's digital transformation. Through his leadership, the ministry expanded its reach, utilizing digital platforms like Zoom, Facebook, and Instagram, while also taking on responsibilities as preacher, teacher, youth pastor, and worship team leader.
Despite his success, Timothy faced emotional and spiritual burnout, leading him to step away from leadership in 2021. His journey to healing included addressing deep-rooted spiritual oppression tied to his family’s occult involvement. Through years of deliverance and inner healing, Timothy broke free from these forces and realized the importance of emotional and spiritual well-being in effective ministry.
This personal journey of transformation inspired him to co-found Selah Seminary with his wife, Nicole. Together, they sought to redefine ministry leadership by integrating emotional, spiritual, and relational health into the core of seminary training. Timothy is now dedicated to equipping leaders with the holistic tools necessary to overcome personal struggles, heal from past trauma, and lead ministries that are spiritually vibrant and impactful.
At Selah Seminary, Timothy’s expertise in overcoming spiritual oppression, emotional trauma, and leadership burnout plays a vital role in shaping the seminary's curriculum. His work is driven by a passion to raise leaders who are not only knowledgeable but authentically transformed, equipped to lead ministries that bring healing, empowerment, and societal change. His story is a testament to the power of healing, deliverance, and authentic leadership.