Oluwatoni Abdul

What motivated you to study in the UK?

My motivation stemmed from a gap I saw while working with creatives and small businesses in Nigeria. I spent years advising fashion startups and entrepreneurs, and I realised that while the talent was abundant, the legal infrastructure to commercialise that innovation was often misunderstood.

Since the Nigerian legal system is founded on English Common Law, the UK felt like the natural place to return to the 'source code' of my profession. However, I didn’t just want to learn the law; I wanted to master the future of it. The UK is a global leader in the regulation of AI and Intellectual Property. I knew that studying here would equip me not just to protect clients, but to help them grow, bridging the gap between African creativity and global standards.

Why did you choose the University of Birmingham?

My decision to study here was driven by a desire to challenge my own thinking. As a legal professional focused on Intellectual Property and the commercialisation of innovation, I needed an institution at the forefront of legal-tech and global commerce.

I chose Birmingham because it offers the perfect environment to translate my practical experience with Nigerian SMEs into a global context. I wanted to join a network of scholars where I could share my unique insights on African creative industries while learning from world-leading experts. For me, Birmingham represents the ideal intersection of heritage and future-focused research.

How has the scholarship supported your academic journey or overall student experience?

Receiving the Postgraduate Chancellor’s Scholarship has been a crucial part of my journey and Instead of constantly worrying about funding my studies, I have been able to channel all my energy into academics and still support prospective students in return as a postgraduate student ambassador.

The scholarship didn't just pay for my seat in the lecture hall; it gave me the freedom to excel in it.

What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Birmingham?

I enjoy the fact that the diversity here encourages me to be more open. Coming from a background where I can be quite introverted, Birmingham has helped me come out of my shell. Whether I am working as a Student Ambassador or just on campus, I am learning to converse with people from all over the globe. I love that the environment forces me to be intentional about connecting with others, refining the communication skills I need for my future career.

What advice would you give to students from your home country considering studying in the UK?

To not be afraid to ask questions before you arrive. In my role as a Student Ambassador, I see how much easier the transition is for students who reach out and ask about the reality of life here. The UK education system is very different; it values critical thinking over rote learning. So, reach out to current students, use the Unibuddy platform, and get the real picture to work smart and not hard.