Meet osamagbe izevbigie | Director and Creative Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with osamagbe izevbigie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi osamagbe, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Upon arriving at the University of South Wales in 2019, I noticed that the music played at the student union club lacked diversity. This realization led me to establish the African-Caribbean Society, which organized the first-ever Afro-Caribbean event in the university’s history. The event was a huge success and opened up numerous opportunities, including hosting events for the university and securing a contract with Club Ice to promote RnB Wednesdays, a pioneering venture in the valleys. In 2021, fueled by ambition and a vision for change, I founded OTID Entertainment. I transformed a student-led initiative into a cultural powerhouse that celebrates diversity and empowers the community through groundbreaking events and initiatives. Under my leadership, OTID Entertainment has become synonymous with excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, hosting prominent acts such as LAX, Adesope (Afrobeat CNN), Spyro, Ajebo Hustlers, Fave and Yxng Bane

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey began with a simple Google search for the most affordable universities in the UK offering programs in live event production. That search led me to the University of South Wales website, where I applied for the program, setting the stage for what would become a transformative chapter in my life. My initial motivation stemmed from my apprenticeship at Cytech World Communications, where I was exposed to the workings of large-scale event production. It was there that I developed a deep passion for the behind-the-scenes magic of lighting design, live sound reinforcement, stage management, and more. Interestingly, at the time, I never envisioned myself as an event host; I thought my path was destined to be that of a production technician. However, life had other plans, and my journey took an unexpected turn, leading me to establish OTID Entertainment and become a prominent figure in the events industry. Looking back, it’s incredible how a simple Google search and an apprenticeship experience set the stage for my fulfilling career in live event management.

During my journey, I realized that the lack of diversity was not just limited to the University, but was also a major issue in Cardiff’s nightlife scene as a whole. This observation presented a clear opportunity for me and my team to address a significant gap in the market. Recognizing the potential for change, we decided to take action. I a collective of like-minded individuals who share my vision for a more inclusive and culturally diverse entertainment landscape. Embarked on a mission to make a meaningful impact and fill this void in Cardiff’s nightlife. With our collective determination and passion, we were confident that we could instigate positive change and reshape the city’s cultural narrative.

My proudest achievement to date is defying the odds and accomplishing what many deemed impossible. Despite facing scepticism and discouragement from respected figures in the industry, who advised against hosting Afrobeats nights in Cardiff, I remained steadfast in my vision. I encountered venues unwilling to embrace that music genre and artists cancelling bookings due to the perceived limitations of the Cardiff scene. However, I persevered against all odds, refusing to conform to the mediocre stereotypes and standards expected by the venues and stakeholders in the industry for my kind of audience. Today, I stand at the forefront, proudly pushing the boundaries and elevating the culture to new heights.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Afrolounge is one of my top picks in the city. It is nestled within the urban landscape and exudes an inviting ambience with its contemporary African-Caribbean fusion. Each visit promises a culinary journey with its delectable, authentically crafted menu. Personally, I can’t get enough of their seafood boil. It is a harmonious blend of flavours that never disappoints. If you are looking for both exceptional cuisine and delightful cocktails, Afrolounge is a definite must-visit spot.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Let me introduce the brilliant minds behind OTID Entertainment:

1. Osamagbe (Director): The visionary leading the Afrowales movement in Cardiff.
2. Sammycreated (Head of Projects and Operations): The artistic maestro and PR virtuoso, shaping visually compelling narratives.
3. Egoola (Media and Stylist): The lens master and stylistic genius adding flair to the OTID experience.
4. Mide (Project Manager and Secretary): The operational backbone ensuring seamless event execution and initiative success.
5. Playboykuti (Performing Act and Afrobeat Artist): Infusing soulful beats that define OTID Entertainment.
6. Cruisewithbello (Hypeman and Host): Elevating energy with a charismatic voice at every event.
7. Victor (Project Manager and Treasurer): Meticulously planning and stewarding finances for project success.
8. Pleasure (Logistics Manager): Orchestrating behind-the-scenes magic with logistical wizardry.
9. DaniFrvr (Content Creator and Streamer): Disrupting social media with over 10 million impressions on Instagram. And several viral videos.
10. Femi (Stage Manager and Producer): With meticulous attention to detail and a passion for excellence, Femi ensures seamless execution of events, from planning to production.

Website: Www.OTIDentertainment.com

Instagram: @otid.entertainment and @Osama_otid

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/osamagbe

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Otid.entertainment1

Image Credits
Klat Magazine