Teejay Olakojo

Hi Teejay! Please tell us a bit about yourself. 

I’m a filmmaker and graduate of the University of South Wales, where I completed an MA in Drama. I’ve had the privilege of producing three films so far, and I’m also the founder of Edissa Studios, a production company focused on creating impactful films that amplify underrepresented voices. My work is largely inspired by my experiences in Nigeria, and I’ve always had a passion for storytelling—whether through drama or film. 

What does Black History Month mean to you? 

Black History Month is about being seen and heard. For me, it’s an opportunity for the university and wider society to say, "We see you, we celebrate you, and your contributions matter." As someone who’s passionate about expression and creativity, being acknowledged during this time makes me feel included and valued. It’s also a time for reflection—on how far we’ve come and the work that’s still ahead. 

One of my proudest moments was completing my final project at university, a docu-drama that highlighted the experiences of asylum seekers. Despite limited resources, I transformed classrooms into filming locations and was able to produce a piece that was 23 minutes long, but incredibly powerful. It’s also rewarding to see my film, "Scarlet," which I produced in Nigeria, gain recognition. Winning two awards at the Content Creators Challenge for our work also felt like a huge step forward for me and my team. 

What inspires you to create films and share stories? 
Originally, I wanted to be an actor, but as I progressed, I realized the importance of taking control of my own narrative. There’s still a gap in the industry when it comes to inclusion, especially for Black creatives, so I decided to wear multiple hats—producer, director, writer—to bring my visions to life. What drives me is turning an idea into a finished product, knowing that it could spark a conversation or make someone feel seen.