Osama Izevbigie: POWER UP Industry Professional
Short Bio: Osamagbe Izevbigie is a dynamic cultural entrepreneur, event producer, and community leader dedicated to creating platforms that celebrate diversity and amplify underrepresented voices. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, he began his career as a light and sound technician, supporting major African artists including Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Tiwa Savage. After founding Osamagbe Media in 2018, he relocated to Cardiff to study Live Sound and Event Production at the University of South Wales. There, he launched the university’s first Afro-Caribbean event and founded the African-Caribbean Society. His drive to challenge underrepresentation in Wales’ creative scene led to the creation of Afrowales, a social enterprise that has transformed Welsh nightlife and cultural engagement through inclusive events, mentoring, and community outreach. Through OTID Entertainment, Osamagbe has produced shows with UK artists like ZieZie and Kojo Funds, while collaborating with bodies such as Creative Wales, Race Council Cymru, and the Arts Council of Wales. He is also the visionary behind the Black Welsh Music Awards and the innovative AI-driven immersive project, Echoes of the OJUJU. As a Black entrepreneur in Wales, Osamagbe has navigated systemic barriers in funding, visibility, and leadership access. Despite these challenges, he has built impactful platforms that celebrate African and Caribbean heritage. He was honoured in the Welsh Senate and named Entrepreneur of the Year at the Black History Wales Youth Awards. Now, through Power Up, he seeks to connect with like-minded leaders, accelerate growth, and expand opportunities for the communities he serves.
Concise Description of activity: Scaling Afrowales and OTID Entertainment nationally through mentorship, strategic partnerships, and innovative projects that amplify Black Welsh music, culture, and community voices.