From Rose Burford College theatre school

Ola Labib has picked up her honorary fellowship from Rose Burford College, a theatre school in South-East London.

The establishment announced that the comedian – pictured above with former college board chair Jennifer Sims – would be receiving the honour last month.

At the time she said: ‘Growing up, I rarely saw people who looked like me represented in the performing arts, and for a long time that made a career in this industry feel out of reach. 

‘But with a lot of self-belief, determination and hard work, I made the unlikely journey from studying and working in pharmacy to becoming a comedian, writer and, more recently, a published author.

‘I hope my story reminds students that there is no single route into the creative industries. Your career may take unexpected turns, and the skills, resilience and experiences you gain along the way can open doors you never imagined possible. Sometimes the path that seems unconventional is the one that leads you exactly where you're meant to be.

‘I'm incredibly proud to receive this recognition… I hope this honour encourages the next generation of creatives to believe in themselves, embrace their own journey and know that there is space for their voice in this industry.'

Labib grew up in a strict Islamic and traditional African household, and has racked up a series of TV credits, including her own Channel 4 comedy pilot The Pharmacy, which came out last year.  He first book, How Not to Lead a Double Life: Confessions of an Unapologetic Outcast, was published in July.

Also recognised yesterday were actors and Rose Bruford alumni David Ajao and Macarena Gómez, who became fellows, while  Sims and performer and producer Kim Tatum are received honorary fellowships.

Professor Randall Whittaker, principal of Rose Bruford College, said: ‘One of the great joys of working in a creative institution is seeing how many different ways people make their mark. The six individuals we are recognising this year have taken very different routes, but all have shown extraordinary commitment to their craft, their communities and the power of creativity to connect people.’

Published: 11 Sep 2026