Concordia Magazine 2025

Class Notes

Alex Bud (1997–2002) Through his prizewinning doctoral research on the Nigerian Creative Economy, Alex has been involved for some years in local productions throughout Nigeria as a consultant and producer. During this period he has been active in pioneering collaboration between Nollywood and other film industries in West Africa. Written and produced in Nollywood and set in the Benin Kingdom, Osamede combines Edo folklore with colonial history. The film tells the story of a young orphan girl who learns she has superpowers as the chosen protector of the Aruosa stone, a revered object said to be blessed by Osanobua, the Benin deity of creation. The film’s historical element engages with the war of 1897, issues about forced-labour policies and Benin’s internal factional conflicts in the early colonial period. Alex describes his character as ‘a borderline psychopath based on the figures of Consul James Philips, who sparked the initial confrontation, Sir Harry Rawson, who led the invasion, and District

Commissioner Crew-Reade, who was murdered in retaliation for unpopular policies’. The Nigerian premiere of Osamede was on 17 October 2025.

Ameer Kotecha (2005–2010) Ameer has recently taken on a new role as Head of Palestinian Issues Team at the British Embassy, Tel Aviv. The team has lead responsibility for Gaza, West Bank and the Middle East Peace Process.

H1 OMT!

Discerning, car-enthusiastic OMTs will be interested to read that the registration number H1 OMT is looking for a new home. Nick Foley (1944–1949) has been its custodian for the past 20 years and would like to hear from any OMT who would like to take it on. He requests no payment but he would be happy for a donation to be made to Phab week. Expressions of interest may be made by email to development@mtsn.org.uk.

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Max Kendix (2012–2019) Max Kendix, Political Correspondent for The Times , has been shortlisted for the Press Gazette British Journalism Awards in the new Journalist of the Year category.