The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) welcomed back Events Management graduate Arnold Matsena, who works as a choreographer, musician, model, and creative director.
Arnold shared his skills, expertise and impressive career to date with students studying Events and International Festivals Management at the University’s Swansea campus.
The lecture is part of a series of events aimed at sharing real-world experience, providing valuable insights into how the skills and knowledge gained during university translate into actual careers.
Arnold won the Wales youth award for best performer and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Black History Month Wales Award for Performing Arts and has worked with Arts Council Wales to fight racism and social injustice through creativity.
He is currently organising an Olympic Fusion Event with Swansea Council which is taking place at Swansea Waterfront Museum on Saturday, October 5 celebrating the new Urban Olympic Sports introduced at the Paris 2024 Olympics through dance. Students and staff will be taking part in the event, supported by Arnold.
Arnold has directed and produced several projects, including the BBC documentary Brothers in Dance, which won a BAFTA Cymru in 2023. He also directed the short film Are You Numb Yet, which won the International Infallible Award for Best Show at the digital Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
He teaches workshops in schools, colleges, and dance schools across the United Kingdom.
Jacqui Jones, Program Manager – International Travel, Tourism, Events & Festivals Management Portfolio said:
“We were delighted to see Arnold and hear all the amazing things he has been up to since leaving UWTSD. Hearing from successful alumni can motivate students by showing them the diverse paths they can take after graduation. Graduates’ stories often serve as a source of inspiration, helping students set future career goals.”
The Events and International Festivals Management degree at UWTSD offers a mix of academic learning and practical experience to help students develop skills and prepare for a career in events.
The programme provides opportunities to build knowledge and skills about festivals, sports events, meetings, conferences, and weddings to enhance managerial understanding and creative and innovative collaborations.
Dr Jayne Griffith-Parry, Academic Director of Hospitality and Tourism Management at UWTSD, said:
“It is always an amazing experience for current students to meet with and hear from our stella alumni about their achievements since completing their studies at UWTSD.
“Long standing award programmes like ours allow for our alumni to be extensive and we are proud to say extremely successful. What a great way for students to realise that their aspirations can come true as so many have already experienced.”
