From Coventry University Classrooms to Global Marketing Success
Coventry University graduates Christina Okorocha, Ruby Aryiku, and Rumbi Mupindu have demonstrated the power of education and entrepreneurial spirit by co-founding VAMP, a leading cultural marketing agency in the UK. This agency distinguishes itself as the first to exclusively represent and promote Black digital talent within the UK, working with high-profile clients such as Disney and Netflix.
The VAMP Story: Born at Coventry University
The seeds of VAMP were sown during Christina, Ruby, and Rumbi’s time at Coventry University. Ruby and Rumbi connected while studying Media Communications and Culture, while Christina, a Business student, met Ruby through the university’s African Caribbean Society (ACS). Their shared experiences and recognition of a significant gap in the market – the lack of authentic Black female voices in the entertainment and influencer industries – fueled their ambition.
Summer placements at prominent companies like Google and Universal Pictures further solidified their vision. Constantly fielding questions about youth and Black culture, Christina and Ruby realized the potential for a specialized agency. By their final year in 2016, they were offering marketing services to fellow students, with successful YouTube makeup influencer and Coventry University alumna Mariam Musa as their first client.
Building a Global Brand from Coventry University Roots
Officially launched in 2017, VAMP quickly gained traction, securing major campaigns for Disney’s Black Panther and The Little Mermaid, among others. Their client base expanded to include global giants like Netflix and Arsenal Football Club, alongside community-driven initiatives. VAMP’s success underscores the value of a Coventry University education in fostering creativity, innovation, and practical skills.
“Coventry University wasn’t just about the education, it was about the resources and the people. We were able to access equipment, utilize the library for research, and connect with a diverse community that fostered collaboration and growth. The university environment helped us identify market gaps and develop the skills necessary to build our business.” – Christina Okorocha, Co-Founder, Head of Entertainment at VAMP.
With a strong UK presence and plans to expand into the US and Africa, VAMP embodies the global reach and impact of Coventry University’s alumni network. The agency’s success serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing talent and empowering its graduates to make a difference.
VAMP’s Impact on Black Digital Talent in the UK
VAMP’s commitment to representing Black digital talent is transforming the UK cultural marketing landscape. By providing a platform for these voices, VAMP ensures authentic representation in major campaigns and fosters a more inclusive media environment.
Creating Opportunities for Aspiring Black Digital Professionals
VAMP’s success is directly linked to its dedication to developing and supporting Black digital talent in the UK. The agency actively seeks out and nurtures emerging influencers, providing them with the tools and opportunities to thrive in a competitive industry. This commitment extends beyond representation to fostering leadership and empowering Black creators to shape their own narratives.
Coventry University: A Launchpad for Cultural Marketing Leaders
The story of VAMP highlights Coventry University’s role in shaping the next generation of cultural marketing leaders. The university provides a supportive learning environment, access to industry-leading resources, and a diverse student body that fosters collaboration and innovation.
Academic Programs that Fuel Marketing Success
Coventry University offers a range of academic programs in media, communications, and business that equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the cultural marketing field. The university’s emphasis on hands-on experience, industry connections, and entrepreneurial spirit prepares graduates for successful careers in this dynamic industry.
A Supportive Alumni Community Fostering Growth
Coventry University boasts a strong alumni network that provides ongoing support and mentorship to graduates. The success of VAMP exemplifies the power of this network in enabling alumni to connect, collaborate, and achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations.
VAMP’s journey from a student-led initiative to a globally recognized agency exemplifies the transformative power of education and entrepreneurial drive. It showcases how Coventry University’s supportive environment, coupled with the vision and dedication of its alumni, can lead to extraordinary achievements in the cultural marketing sector. The agency’s continued success serves as an inspiration for aspiring marketers and a testament to the university’s enduring commitment to fostering talent and innovation.
