CATEGORY
ARTS and SPORTS Talents
From a fashion designer for FKA Twigs and Kendrick Lamar to Teesside graduate and lioness Beth Mead, universities train some of the UK’s brightest talents in arts and sport, including many whose parents did not go to university.
A springboard to a creative or sports career
Getting into arts and sports is no easy feat. Going to uni was a springboard for these impressive graduates to fascinating careers.
For paralympian Scott Meenagh, university has come after an already successful sports career – as a sports scholar at the University of Stirling, he’s studying History!
Similarly, Rav started off as a professional footballer. It was his degree from Leeds Arts University that led him to a career in fashion design.
Meet them
Staffordshire University
Solent University, Southampton
Teesside University
University of the Arts, London
University of West London
Ulster University
Royal College of Art
Ravensbourne University London
University for the Creative Arts
University of Bedfordshire
Leeds Arts University
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
University of Stirling
University of Edinburgh
Solent University, Southampton
University of Wolverhampton
Aberystwyth University
University for the Creative Arts
AmIT SHAH
ACTOR
Staffordshire University
Actor Amit Shah graduated with a degree in Drama from Staffordshire University in 2001 and has since performed on stage and screen, including TV shows ‘Happy Valley’, ‘Black Mirror’ and ‘Dr Who’.
In 2023, Amit returned to Staffordshire University to receive an honorary degree recognising him as an inspiration and role model to Staffordshire University students and graduates – delivering workshops and guest lectures, as well as attracting potential students to the University through his ambassadorial role.
“The Staffs Uni experience was a crucial platform for me to build my foundations as an actor and from which I could really launch myself towards my dream of performing.”
Amy Sutton
Multimedia JournalisT
Solent University, Southampton
After receiving unexpected A level results due to ill health, Amy contacted Solent’s Clearing team and successfully enrolled on a degree in Multimedia Journalism.
Amy credits the expertise and support of the staff on her course for pushing her to secure invaluable industry experience that led to her securing a job in broadcasting.
She's now a familiar and trusted face as an ITV journalist working across producing, reporting and presenting.
A respected voice, Amy reports on high profile court cases and delivers news bulletins on live TV. She’s now supporting the next generation of broadcasting talent as a Senior Fellow at the John Schofield Trust.
“I still cherish the invaluable experience of moving to a new city and making friends to this day. Solent prepared me to succeed!”
BETH MEAD
Professional FootballeR
Teesside University
A PATH TO SUCCESS
England and Arsenal Footballer Beth Mead is one of the world's most famous professional footballers.
Beth, from Whitby, studied BA (Hons) Sports Development at Teesside University and was part of the Elite Athlete Scheme, graduating in 2016.
Since becoming a professional footballer she has picked up numerous awards and accolades, most notably being part of the 2022 England Lionesses team which won the European Championships. In the same tournament, Beth was named Player of the Tournament and was awarded the Golden Boot after scoring six goals for her country.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Teesside University and the support I received from the University at the start of my career was invaluable.”
In 2022, Beth was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year. She was also the runner-up in the Ballon d’Or Feminin, which recognises the best female footballers from across the globe.
Beth has continued to work closely with Teesside University since completing her studies, launching the Beth Mead Scholarship earlier this year to support aspiring female footballers.
The scholarship is supporting four scholars through their studies, providing each of them with a bursary, bespoke support and training from a team of experts, as well as access to one-to-one mentoring from Beth.
“University was a fantastic experience and, alongside the academic aspect, I was able to develop incredibly useful skills such as time-management and self-discipline, which have been transferable into my current career.”
“my degree Has given me additional skills and opportunities I can pursue beyond my sporting career, which will no doubt also be useful after I hang up my boots.”
Davinia Clarke
Illustrator and mixed-media artist
University of the Arts, London
Davinia is a London-based illustrator, mixed-media artist and inspiring creative facilitator named by the Association of Illustrators (AOI) as one of 10 UK illustration graduates to watch in 2023.
Davinia graduated with a First in BA Illustration and Visual Media from the London College of Communication (LCC), part of University of the Arts London (UAL).
Her passion for art has led to her hosting art workshops, with one promoted on BBC Northampton Radio for Black History Month. She's also set up a winter market for LCC's graduates, where she’s sold her artwork, and has featured in exhibitions.
Davinia’s ethos is to encourage creativity, empower and educate herself in everything she does.
“I never envisioned attending university or experiencing the positive journey I encountered. I've witnessed a transformation in both my confidence and creative capabilities.”
Emmanuel
‘Manny’ Ebokosia
Founder, True Cadence
University of West London (UWL)
Emmanuel, who goes by Manny, first discovered his love of music when he came to the UK from Nigeria at just twelve years old. As he got more and more into hip hop, music became a way of dealing with emotions and expressing his struggles. Manny suffered with a stutter during day-to-day conversations, so he relied on the rhythm of rap music to allow him to speak with a flow. This experience taught Manny that music could be used to support other people and improve their lives.
After undergoing a series of personal setbacks, Manny applied to UWL to study for a Masters degree in music management.
When it came to his dissertation, Manny combined his philanthropic work with his music management course and ran a project on community music and social entrepreneurship, and from this True Cadence was born. True Cadence works with young people between 8 and 25 years old, running various music-related activities including song writing, sound recording, music therapy, live performance, and the Music Industry masterclass program, which was inspired by Manny’s experiences at UWL.
The Music Industry Masterclass is tailored for 16-25-year-olds and sets True Cadence apart in the grassroots community music scene. Given that music management isn't typically taught in schools or colleges at this level, the programme fills a crucial gap. Many young people may not have the opportunity to attend specialised institutions or universities due to their circumstances. True Cadence acts as a bridge, connecting them with invaluable music industry knowledge. They bring in lecturers from university music management programmes and industry pros to lead these workshops.
"To be honest, I felt like fate bought me to UWL because at the time everything in my life was going wrong.”
Holly-Jayne Quinn
Graphic designer & Illustrator
Ulster University
Holly-Jayne recently graduated from Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art with a first-class honours degree in Graphic Design and Illustration with Distinction in Professional Practise.
Since graduating, Holly now works as a resident graphic designer and production assistant at Ibrand, where she’s given the opportunity to immerse herself in the merchandise industry. Every project is an opportunity for growth and creative expression.
“I enrolled in university with the aspiration of acquiring knowledge and skills that would shape my future. It was one of the best decisions of my life.”
Kimberley Burrows
Artist, disability advocate and model
Royal College of Art (RCA)
Kimberley is an award-winning interdisciplinary artist, disability advocate and model. She completed her MA in Painting in 2023 and is currently the President of the Royal College of Art’s Students' Union.
Kimberley's practice is informed by her sight loss. Shifting from illustration to painting, she developed accessible systems of creating art.
Kimberley has featured on BBC TV and radio talking about her artistic practice and advocacy work.
With a passion for fundraising and volunteering, she’s facilitated art classes for visually impaired service users at Henshaws Society for Blind People in Manchester, and for schoolchildren in Kasambira, Uganda as an East African Playgrounds ambassador.
Working with the Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB), she's campaigned internationally, visiting both the UK and European Parliaments in support of stronger accessibility legislation.
“My scholarship has opened doors that would not have been open to me otherwise.”
Aliyah (Liy) Grant
Creative copywriter
Ravensbourne University London
Liy joined Ravensbourne in 2016 to study their Access to Higher Education course, a one-year course designed for learners who are returning to education.
Liy then went on to study BA Advertising and Brand Design at Ravensbourne, graduating in 2021 with a First.
As a first-generation mature learner, Liy faced significant challenges, but threw herself into university life. She worked as an outreach student ambassador and supported learners from underrepresented backgrounds to better understand the creative industries and break down barriers to going to university.
Liy has secured a job as a Creative Copywriter at Mother, one of the world’s leading creative advertising agencies. She’s worked on producing campaigns for big brands like KFC, H&M, IKEA and many more. She’s currently on a six-month placement in New York.
“Meeting people that not only looked like me, but understood my dreams, the sacrifices, the imposter syndrome? That was life changing for me.”
McKenna Marsden
Fashion designer
University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
Mckenna studied BA Fashion at UCA Epsom, graduating in 2023. In February he was chosen by British Vogue as one of its top 50 emerging designers.
Originally from Newcastle, Mckenna comes from a working-class background, which he used as the main inspiration for his final graduate fashion collection and influences his designs now.
His UCA journey also included a summer internship at Christopher Kane, having gained the confidence to throw himself into the industry while at UCA. Following graduation, he was also selected to show his final graduate collection at UCA Epsom's Catwalk Show at London Fashion Week in September 2023.
“Uni has taught me new skills and developed my abilities in a subject which was once just a passion.”
MEGAN MURPHY
ITV News Presenter
University of Bedfordshire
Megan lives and grew up in Jersey in the Channel Islands. She came to study at the University of Bedfordshire through Clearing after experiencing issues with her student finance loan.
When she started studying at the University of Bedfordshire, it was Megan’s first time living away from home and moving to the UK. She studied Radio and Audio at the university and thrived in her studies, participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including becoming the Student Manager of the university’s on-campus community radio station, Radio LaB.
Megan achieved a First in her degree and is now working for ITV News in the Channel Islands as the Early Presenter for Good Morning Britain.
“University had a major positive impact on my life. My confidence really grew and it’s one of the key reasons I am the way I am today.”
Rav Matharu
FASHION DESIGNER
Leeds Arts University
Once a professional footballer for Leeds United, Rav transitioned to a career in fashion, driven by his passion and talent for streetwear.
His journey began at Leeds Arts University. In 2012, Rav launched his brand, clothsurgeon. It focuses on using premium-quality, locally-sourced fabrics, masterfully combining streetwear with high-end menswear.
clothsurgeon has attracted clientele including Lewis Hamilton, Ian Wright OBE, Drake, J Cole, Kendrick Lemar, FKA Twigs, ASAP Rocky, Santan Dave, Pep Guardiola and many others.
In 2022, Leeds Arts University honoured Rav with a master’s degree for his outstanding contributions to Fashion and Arts. Today, he mentors students from the university, offering them industry experience through clothsurgeon’s internship program.
Rav made history in 2022 by being the first South Asian designer to open a bespoke streetwear store on Savile Row.
“University really taught me the depths I could go with my research and development, then refining it to create something that was very true to my concept.”
Rebecca Davies
Designer, Rolls-Royce
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Rebecca Davies, a MDes Surface Pattern and Textiles graduate, is a Bespoke Designer at Rolls-Royce. She secured a paid internship with Rolls-Royce through the university’s Swansea College of Art, which led to her current role with the company.
“With the support and confidence I had developed, alongside all the technical design knowledge, I’ve been able to start a career in design that, before my studies, I would not have believed possible.”
“The emotional and social impact of attending university has been really positive for me, and is something I take into my every day.”
Rebecca Davies
Scott Meenagh
SKIER, SPORTS SCHOLAR
University of Stirling
Scott is a British Para Nordic skier and in his third year as a sports scholar at the University of Stirling, where he's studying History. He balances his sporting career and studies with fatherhood.
Scott represented Scotland Rugby League at under 18s. He was wounded when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) while serving in Afghanistan at the age of 21.
Scott competed at three Invictus Games in 2014, 2016 and 2017, winning medals across rowing and athletics. In 2016, he decided to pursue para Nordic skiing full-time.
In 2018, he became the first British sit-skier to compete at a Paralympic Games at Pyeongchang. In January 2022, he won Great Britain’s first major medal in biathlon at the World Championships in Ostersund, Sweden.
“My younger self would never have seen me pursuing higher education as it was so out of reach when I was young. I’m proud that I have persisted, and will hopefully make my children proud by achieving my degree.”
Sir Ian Rankin OBE
NOVELIST
University of Edinburgh
Sir Ian Rankin was the first of his family to attend university, and is a successful novelist. His Rebus novels have been translated into 22 languages and he is a worldwide best seller.
He said: “I was the first member of my family to go into higher education. I was a voracious reader and wanted to know more about literature. My parents weren't sure about my choice of English Literature as a subject – to their minds, working class kids went to university to get a 'trade skill' such as accountancy or law. But they allowed me to make my own choices and go my own way.”
“I think my younger self would be relieved that after all the false starts, wrong turns and rejection letters his stubbornness paid off! University made me more confident and strengthened my critical and creative abilities - but I'm not sure I really realised that at the time.”
Sophie Humphrey
BA TV Production student
Solent University, Southampton
Sophie is a third-year TV Production undergraduate at Solent University, Southampton.
At Solent, Sophie has grabbed every opportunity that has come her way. She joined student-led society Sonar Events to gain experience working with live clients. She’s undertaken work placements at festivals and excels in her studies, carving out a name for herself in the industry before even graduating.
As a member of Sonar, Sophie has celebrated winning two awards at the National Student Television Awards for Best Sports Broadcast and Directing.
Sophie has also been recognised by Rise, a prestigious equality body which celebrates the skills of women across the broadcast industry, winning Student of the Year.
“University has opened my mind to taking even more opportunities and given me a new drive to learn and push myself further.”
THEO
JOHNSON
radio presenter and filmmaker
University of Wolverhampton
Theo, from Birmingham, graduated from the University of Wolverhampton in 2014 with a degree in Drama. Since then, he's established a diverse career in entertainment.
He’s a BBC Radio 1Xtra presenter, model, public speaker, filmmaker and actor, and his work has appeared on Netflix, BBC, Amazon, and Channel 4.
Despite his speedy rise to success and fame, Theo pays tribute to his experience studying at Wolverhampton.
His latest film, Just Two Drops, was released on LinkUpTV on 29 October after premiering at an exclusive screening at Odeon Luxe, Covent Garden, on 27 October.
The film is the highly anticipated sequel to Just One Drop which was released in 2022, reaching an audience of over a million people and listed on Amazon Prime.
Just Two Drops is an educational drama that portrays life in a broken home, blighted by drugs and crime, and focusing on the devastation caused by acid attacks.
Alongside Theo, the film boasts an impressive cast, including Junior Andrew, son of Peter Andre and Katie Price, Khali Best from Eastenders, Junior Afolabi Salokun known for Blue Story, and Jourdan Riane, who appeared on Love Island in 2019.
Looking ahead, Theo has no plans to slow down; he has three feature film scripts and series in the pipeline, which he’s working hard to get commissioned.
From Campus to Big Screen
“Before going to university I didn’t know how to write professional emails, write scripts or direct others, so attending really changed my life.”
“Doing the course at the University of Wolverhampton gave me all the skills necessary to become a great actor, director, and script writer. The great tutors who guided me through the directing and script writing classes gave me everything I needed to be where I am today.”
“since university I’ve made history twice and helped hundreds of people from under privileged backgrounds find opportunities within the creative industry and film.”
Theo Johnson
Tina Evans
TV reporter
Aberystwyth University
Tina Evans is a blogger, motivational speaker and television reporter. She graduated from Aberystwyth University with a BA in Theatre, Film and Television Studies in 2006.
Diagnosed with Friedrich’s Ataxia at 16, Tina ignored the doctors’ prognosis of what the future had in store and chose to live every day as it comes.
Tina started her career at BBC Wales, where she worked as a researcher for the education department and then Radio Cymru. Four years later, she became Disability Wales’ digital communications and inclusion officer.
She's been involved in S4C programmes like Bwrdd i dri, Taith Fawr y Dyn Bach and Dathlu. In 2022, she was invited to be part of BBC Wales reporting team at the Commonwealth Games and in 2023, she reported on paratriathlons.
“Well, it’s in me: Anything that is possible for me, I’ll give it a go.”
Troy Hunter
WRITEr
University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
Troy Hunter is a writer of Jamaican descent from London. Troy’s short film Support was funded by Film London and screened at BAFTA Piccadilly in 2018.
Troy is currently writing an episode of Series 4 of hit Netflix show Sex Education, as well as an episode of Eastenders.
He's developing another short film called Mya and his debut play Black Pride, as well as a television adaptation of the same name, with Maia Pictures.
At this year's NAACP Awards, Troy has been nominated in the Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television) category.