FROM CLASSROOM TO STAGE: BIYI PRAISE JOURNEY


FROM CLASSROOM TO STAGE: BIYI PRAISE JOURNEY 

 By Victoria Ilori


As Obafemi Awolowo University prepares for convocation, one of the standout student entertainers leaving the institution is Biyi Adesida Praise Oluwademilade, widely known as Biyi Praise. A French student from the 2021 admission set, Biyi is recognised as one of OAU’s finest young comedians.

Academic Path and Early Passion

Originally aspiring to study Dramatic Arts, Biyi was instead offered French—a decision he accepted to begin his academic journey without delay. Despite the unexpected switch, he is set to graduate with a Second Class Upper, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence.

Biyi’s passion for entertainment began at home, where he enjoyed making people laugh. His official career started in 2021, inspired by comedian Kenny Blaq. Although he never planned to work as an MC, he embraced it for financial support, earning ₦10,000 at his first gig.

Campus Career and Memorable Highlights

Throughout his time on campus, Biyi balanced academics with a steadily growing entertainment career. He notes that while school sometimes restricted his ability to explore bigger opportunities, he faced no major challenges in managing both responsibilities.

His memorable moments include a Part 1 performance where he mimicked Kenny Blaq and was recalled to the stage after the lights were switched off due to time. He also hosted his first event with an unexpected turnout of over 700 attendees—far beyond the planned 100. A defining highlight was being publicly acknowledged by Kenny Blaq himself during a performance.

Future Plans and Advice

As he graduates, Biyi says he is ready to “face real life,” clarifying that he considers himself a popular student rather than a celebrity. He has no interest in a 9–5 career and plans to pursue entertainment full-time.

To aspiring entertainers, he advises starting small and building gradually: "You can’t start from step four; begin from step one. Push yourself before seeking godfathers, and avoid distractions"

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