Isaac Borquaye (Guvna B)

Meet Isaac. Isaac is a rapper, broadcaster and author. He has won three MOBO Awards, claiming his first whilst a Herts student.

A tough start at Herts

Isaac already knew people who had studied at Herts before he applied, and they were positive about the University. Herts is also far enough away from Isaac's home in East London that he could be independent but close enough to travel back for cooked food from his parents.

Isaac's start at Herts was tough. He initially studied computer science but failed his first year. However, he was encouraged by staff at the University to try a different course that better aligned with his interests - BA (Hons) Business and Management Studies.

Isaac says, 'I am registered as self-employed, and the course taught me how to budget well. We also had communication modules, which helped me become a better lyricist and taught me how to write for different audiences. I was surprised at how many practical skills we learnt.'

Some of Issac's favourite memories are from his time in the Student Union's Afro-Caribbean Society (ACS). He made many friends and enjoyed participating in football tournaments organised by the society. Isaac says, 'I treasured some of the more mundane stuff, like hanging out with your flatmates in the kitchen. University was a great place to find like-minded people.'

Winning a MOBO Award

Isaac continued making music during his studies and won his first MOBO Award whilst at Herts. Isaac says, 'My tutor was so excited when he found out I was nominated. He told his other classes and asked people to vote for me.'

'I was focused on my studies at the time and had continued making music as a hobby. I had a mini studio set up in my accommodation and often performed at ACS events and on the university circuit. I would also go on tour during the holidays.’

'Winning my first MOBO Award was great, but awards can be a smokescreen. I wasn't earning much money from music and wanted to complete my degree. I am not the type of person that starts something and doesn't finish it.'

His career now

Isaac has released 10 albums; his most recent, The Village Is On Fire, came out in 2023. He has also created several documentaries for the BBC, including Gospel meets hip-hop. He continues exploring other creative opportunities and plans to start a new YouTube channel in late 2024.

Another of Isaac's passions is supporting young musicians, and he runs an artist development programme where he teaches essential skills like making the most of a studio session. He is also the Chair of Youth Music's Board of Trustees, a national charity helping young people make, learn and earn in music.

Isaac's advice to others looking to follow in his footsteps is: 'Be intentional. Understand what you want to get out of university. If it's just to get a good degree, then smash it. But university is also a good opportunity to learn who you are.’