Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi and Professor Paul Boyle, Vice Chancellor of Swansea University.
Swansea University alumna Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi has highlighted the importance of inspiring the next generation of young people to be effective leaders during a recent visit to Singleton Campus when she took time out to meet with students and record a student podcast.
Campaigner and activist Oluwaseun came to Swansea University from her home in Nigeria and graduated with MA in International Relations in 2012. She is the founder of the Stand to End Rape (STER) charity where she works to educate about and reduce, gender-based violence in Nigeria. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year in 2019 and recognition as an Obama Foundation Emerging Leader.
Oluwaseun’s most recent visit to Swansea underscores her commitment to inspire young leaders and her ongoing connection to the University and came just ahead of her attendance at the British Council’s Study UK Awards where she was named the Global Winner in the Social Impact category for work of her charity Stand to End Rape Initiative (STER).
Reflecting on her upcoming award, Oluwaseun said that she felt moved that STER was recognised in the UK for the work it does to support women.
"I feel excited and thankful, but also challenged—to do more and not stop," she said. "I want to create a pathway for those coming behind me, to offer someone to look up to who has made an impact. It’s a great feeling to have and I’m just really excited to be representing Swansea for this award.”
During her visit she emphasised the importance of connecting with students and met with International Relations students and recorded a student podcast for international students.
Oluwaseun said: “I have been on my journey and to offer that back to people who are currently studying is very important to me as I want to share my wealth of knowledge with others so that is doesn’t just reside with me.
“I hope people find value, find a sense of direction or just find something in what I say that will help them on their career path so when they become leaders themselves, they will have leadership skills and know what is required of them. I want to come here and have the chance to connect with the students who are, to me, the heart of Swansea.”
Professor Paul Boyle, Vice Chancellor of Swansea University said:
“We were thrilled to welcome Oluwaseun back to our campus ahead of her being named the Global Winner in the Social Impact category at the British Council Study UK Alumni Awards. Oluwaseun's dedication embodies the spirit of these prestigious awards, which celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of UK-educated alumni and underscores the significant value of UK higher education.
“Oluwaseun has exemplified how education can be a transformative force for good and benefit communities worldwide. Her remarkable achievements continue to inspire us all.”