Osamagbe Izevbigie

For Osamagbe Izevbigie, founder of OTID Entertainment (Our Turn Up Is Different) and Afrowales, winning the Arts and Culture Award at the Cardiff Life Awards is more than a business success, it's recognition of a journey that began while studying at the University of South Wales.

Graduating in 2023 with BSc Live Sound and Event Production, Osamagbe founded the African Caribbean Society during his time at USW after recognising a lack of African and Caribbean representation in student nightlife and cultural programming. What began as a student-led initiative has since grown into OTID Entertainment and Afrowales, a cultural and creative platform delivering events, festivals, marketing campaigns and community projects, while creating opportunities for underrepresented creatives across Wales.

Reflecting on his time at USW, Osamagbe credits the University with giving him the confidence and practical experience to transform an idea into a thriving business.

"The University played a major part in that journey. It gave me the space to test ideas, build confidence, develop practical event production skills and begin creating the kind of cultural experiences I felt were missing."

From organising student events on campus, Osamagbe now works with organisations including Race Council Cymru, Creative Wales, Arts Council of Wales, Welsh Government and the Black Welsh Music Awards, delivering major cultural projects across Wales.

He also continues to benefit from the University's entrepreneurial support as a member of Startup Stiwdio, which has remained an important part of the business's development.

"The support, space and encouragement from Startup Stiwdio have helped us stay connected to the University while continuing to grow as a creative business based in Wales."

Winning the Cardiff Life Award marks a significant milestone for both businesses and the communities they serve.

Looking back, Osamagbe sees the recognition as a reminder of where the journey began and the impact that higher education can have beyond graduation.

"From organising early student events to now delivering major projects across Wales, the foundation began at USW. I'm proud that the journey started at the University, and it's a privilege to continue building opportunities that celebrate culture, creativity and community across Wales."