Theatre Arts to Mastering Marketing: Blending Creativity with Marketing Research with Oluwatosin Ishola
My name is Oluwatosin Ishola, hailing from the vibrant and culturally rich nation of Nigeria. My academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in Theatre Arts, a field that resonated deeply with my passion for singing, culture and dance. I love sports, sewing, working with kids, and engaging with the community. However, as fashion entrepreneur I found myself drawn to the dynamic world of business, particularly marketing, which led me to the Edwards School of Business. This decision was fueled by a desire to merge my creative background with solid business acumen. Despite my artistic roots, I have always been fascinated by the behind the scenes of successful business strategies. My interest in digital marketing and the potential it holds for businesses to reach wider audiences piqued my curiosity. I realized that marketing could be a powerful tool for the arts industry, allowing artists to promote their work and engage with their audience more effectively.
My experience in the Master of Science in Management (Marketing) program at the Edwards School of Business has been transformative. I can vividly say that I am not on the same academic level as at when I resumed. The program has broadened my perspective, revealing the multifaceted nature of marketing. Initially I was interested in digital marketing. However, my interests have since expanded to include e-commerce, social marketing, community engagement, and advocacy for people of color. The diverse curriculum and the support from lecturers and faculty members have enriched my learning experience and opened my eyes to new possibilities.
Currently, my research focuses on the history of Black art in Canada, specifically the marketing strategies and value propositions employed by Black visual artists. This research is inspired by my observations in Nigeria, where visual artists often face challenges, societal disregard and ridicule. I aim to explore how Black artists in Canada overcome obstacles, sell their art, and achieve profitability despite their struggles and cultural identities. The findings from this study could benefit Nigerian visual artists, helping them enhance their business practices while preserving their cultural heritage.
To new and prospective MSc Management (Marketing) students, I want to share some insights from my journey. The program can be rigorous initially, especially with the transition to a new learning environment, but it gets better with time. The Master of Science in Management (Marketing) program not only prepares you for advanced studies but also equips you with essential skills for the professional world. The curriculum is deeply rooted in research ethics, quantitative and qualitative research, consumer behaviour, statistics, and provides comprehensive knowledge of the marketing domain. Regular reading and leveraging the extra resources shared by lecturers will significantly enhance your understanding. Practical skills such as graphic design, digital marketing, and product marketing can set you apart from other marketing graduates. As I start the second half of my Master of Science in Management (Marketing) journey, I look forward to entering the professional marketing world. My goal is to work as a digital marketer and marketing coordinator, applying the principles and skills I have acquired to drive results in a corporate setting. Additionally, I plan to continue my initiative, AFRO QUEENS, a hub I created in Nigeria to empower young vulnerable girl child by teaching them basic skills and promoting self-reliance.
Overall, my time at the Edwards School of Business has been incredibly rewarding. I have enjoyed every moment and am eager to see what the next phase of my journey holds. The program has not only equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills but has also reaffirmed my belief in the synergy between art and marketing. Creativity and innovation are at the heart of both fields, and I am excited to continue exploring these domains in my professional career.
One of Canada’s oldest business schools, the Edwards School of Business offers graduate programs to advance or change your careers, including the Master of Science in Management with specializations in Finance, Marketing, and Management (including Human Resources/Organizational Behaviour, Supply Chain/Information Systems, Operations Management, and Accounting & Taxation). Visit the Master of Science in Management program page to learn more or chat with a program advisor.