Deji Faremi
ESA Diploma
Scholar, 2024
ESA introduced the ESA Diploma Scholarship in 2022 to increase industry diversity as part of its mission as the essential and inclusive community for all professionals working in sponsorship.
The first recipients of the Scholarship were Nobandile Mutseyekwa (2022) and Ashley Arthingal (2023), and following in their footsteps in 2024 were Sinem Pozanti and Deji Faremi, who reflects on his experience here.
You have been studying the ESA Diploma for the past eight months. How did it go for you?
It’s been a great experience. The sheer level of information and ideas I’ve been exposed to in the past eight months has been brilliant. A challenging experience for someone who had very little experience prior to the Diploma, but it’s been worth the journey nonetheless.
You can now use the Dip ESA suffix after your name, having earned a prestigious professional qualification. How does that feel?
Definitely worth the effort. It feels good to be able to use that suffix like some of the exceptional people before me, and in this cohort. There’s an incredible sense of pride here.
What did you find most enjoyable about the course, and what did you find most challenging?
My study group. That was the most enjoyable thing for me. A group of likeminded, ambitious people that pushed each other to success. I also enjoyed the seminars and some of the relationships I made. Studying and meeting deadlines was quite challenging. Having to do that while working and managing all other life activities really took its toll at times.
You mentioned at the start of your ESA Diploma Scholarship that you wanted to pave the way for other people to follow in your footsteps. How do you think you will go about that?
I hope to use my knowledge and exposure to good effect in the events and sponsorship industry. As an ESA ambassador, I can portray the organisation and the Diploma in a good light. I hope that others who are hoping to follow in this journey can see me as a success story and be inspired to do even greater things for themselves.
What would you say to somebody considering applying for the ESA Diploma Scholarship?
It will be some of the best eight months you’ve invested. The quality of information you will acquire will make a massive difference to your career in the long term. Go for it!
What are your career goals within sponsorship, and how do you think the Diploma will enable you to achieve them?
I am even more determined now to have a career in sponsorship and I believe the Diploma has equipped me more than enough. While I continue to look for paid opportunities in the industry, I have decided to look at some independent routes like starting an agency and doing some internships and volunteering.
It’s been an amazing experience. I have met some brilliant people and made some great connections. While the Diploma has given me invaluable knowledge, the connections I have made will last even longer.
- Find out more about the ESA Diploma Scholarship
