Fiki Tosin-Oni’s Journey with Love in Music
Love in Music has always believed that access to music education can change lives. One of the most inspiring examples of this mission in action is the journey of Fiki Tosin-Oni. Fiki’s story reflects the mission of Love in Music: empowering young people and building community through music. It reminds us that when children are given opportunity, mentorship, and encouragement, their potential is limitless.
Fiki Tosin-Oni first came to Love in Music’s Los Angeles program at the age of six when his mother brought him to begin violin lessons. Over the next decade, he faithfully attended weekly classes, learning not only how to play the violin but also the values of perseverance, discipline, and community service.
In December 2023, Fiki received early admission to Harvard University, bringing great joy not only to his family but also to the entire Love in Music community.
As he grew older, Fiki’s relationship with Love in Music evolved. After years as a student, he returned to the program as a teaching volunteer, mentoring younger children who were just beginning their own musical journeys. In doing so, he embodied the spirit of Love in Music—giving back to the community that helped shape him.
Fiki is second on right from David Lee, L.A. City Councilman who visited to congratulate Love in Music’s 10th Anniversary Concert at Miracle Center of Grace International Church in Fullerton, CA (6-2017)
Fiki is taking violin lesson from a high school teaching volunteer at Dios International Church in Los Angeles, where Love in Music volunteers and students met regularly every Saturday afternoon for music education.
Fiki, dressed up in white, is giving a big smile (4th from left, 2nd row) right after a Mini Christmas Concert with our teaching volunteers and other students at Dios International, a church led by Nigerian pastor couple. (3rd from left, 2nd row, is Daniel Yoonjae Park, our Music Director/renowned violinist.
Born into a Nigerian immigrant family, Fiki credits both his family and the Love in Music community for supporting his journey. His mother, Deborah, played a vital role in encouraging his continued participation over many years.
This is an article covering the unique journey of Fiki with Love in Music by The L.A. Chosun Ilbo, a local (Korean language) newspaper on 12/20/26, upon hearing about Fiki’s early admission to Harvard.
During his college interview and application process, Fiki proudly shared his experience with Love in Music. He explained that his volunteer work teaching younger students had been an important part of his extracurricular activities and even played a role in his college essay.
Reflecting on his experience, Fiki shared: Now planning to study anthropology at Harvard, he hopes to continue helping people in need and contributing positively to society.
His journey—from a six-year-old beginner violin student to a volunteer mentor and Harvard admit—beautifully reflects the mission of Love in Music: empowering young people and building community through music. His story reminds us that when children are given opportunity, mentorship, and encouragement, their potential is limitless.