…says storytelling is the bridge between human experience and understanding’

By Lamidi Bamidele 

Omowunmi Ola-Edagbami is a storyteller, digital innovator, and community builder who seamlessly merges technology with human narratives. As the founder of Black Scottish Stories, she amplifies the voices of Black immigrants in Scotland, using AI and digital tools to transform personal experiences into impactful stories. With a background in digital marketing and a passion for inclusivity, Omowunmi is a thought leader at the intersection of storytelling, tech, and AI. Whether through documentaries, public speaking, or platform-building, her work centers on one mission: ensuring that every story—no matter how small—has the power to inspire, connect, and drive change.

Sitting down to interview Omowunmi Ola-Edagbami for the second time felt a bit like reconnecting with an old friend. I’d had the privilege of writing about her earlier last year, detailing her vision to transform the experiences of Black immigrants in Scotland. Back then, she spoke with the conviction of someone with a dream. Now, she speaks as someone who has taken significant steps to make that dream a reality.

In our last chat, you were just building momentum with Black Scottish Stories. How has the journey been since?

Ans It’s been a whirlwind. The response has been incredible. People are not just watching and engaging, they’re resonating. It reminds me why I started this in the first place: to create a space where our stories can thrive and inspire.

Storytelling is at the core of your work. How would you define the role of storytelling in today’s digital world, especially for underrepresented communities?

Ans  Storytelling is the bridge between human experience and understanding. For underrepresented communities, it’s not just about sharing—it’s about reclaiming. Digital platforms now allow us to document, amplify, and preserve stories that would otherwise be lost. For communities like Black immigrants in Scotland, storytelling is a way to challenge stereotypes and create connections that foster empathy and inclusion.

How do you balance emotional authenticity with digital tools when telling these deeply personal stories?

The key is using technology as an enhancer, not a replacement. AI helps me organize, edit, and even amplify stories, but the heart of the story always comes from human emotion. I always approach personal stories with care, ensuring that the storyteller feels safe and respected throughout the process.

You’ve often described AI as a “co-pilot” for storytelling. Can you elaborate on how AI has changed the way stories are told and consumed?

Really? This description! I know though, that AI has levelled the playing field for storytelling. It allows people without technical skills to create compelling content, whether it’s video editing, writing assistance, or even audience analytics. Take TikTok and Instagram Reels for example. The AI features in these tools have helped change the way we edit videos these days. More importantly, AI enables smaller voices to be heard on bigger platforms, leveling the playing field for communities like ours.

What misconceptions about AI and creativity would you like to challenge, especially as someone who actively integrates these tools into their work?

There’s this fear that AI will replace creativity, but that’s far from the truth. Like I said earlier, AI doesn’t replace the human touch—it enhances it. It helps us focus on the heart of the story by automating repetitive tasks and enabling innovation. The fears from the ethical point of view are valid though, but as time goes on, I believe we will be able to reign in these fears.

Your upcoming website will allow users to upload their own stories and videos. What inspired this idea, and how do you envision it evolving over time?

I’ve always believed in the power of community-led storytelling. This is what makes me always be willing to volunteer for charities focused on community. The idea came from realising that Black Scottish Stories shouldn’t just be about the stories I curate, it should be a platform for collective voices. Everyone deserves a chance to share their journey. That is what inclusion is about.

Do you foresee this platform being a global hub for immigrant stories, or is it more focused on the Black Scottish experience?

Ans:  To be honest, I really don’t know what the future holds. However, I know that this starts with Black Scottish stories, and I also know that the vision can be global in future. This is because our experiences are connected to larger immigrant narratives. The platform has the ability to grow into a space where stories from different communities can intersect and inspire.

Collaboration seems to be a recurring theme in your work, from Black Tech Scotland to partnerships with other charities and organisations. How do you approach building meaningful collaborations?

Ans: Collaboration starts with shared values. I look for partners who understand the importance of community, inclusion and are willing to put in the work. With initiatives like Black Tech Scotland, for example, we’re building partnerships that align with our mission to elevate underrepresented voices in tech. My work with Touch of Love involves empowering the teenagers in the charity’s Young Achievers Club with skills that will prepare them for the future. My work with EzyApply, a company that has a game changing job application tool, also involves bringing in different organisations to buy into what the company is selling.

It’s all about shared values. I can’t collaborate with you if our values do not align.

You’ve connected with diverse communities and organisations. How has this enriched your understanding of storytelling and its potential impact?

Answer  Oh! I must say, that is the most interesting part of my work! Every interaction is a lesson. Meeting people from different backgrounds has taught me that while the specifics of our stories may differ, the emotions, hope, resilience, love, are the same. This realisation has made my work more inclusive and empathetic. It’s part of what drives me, especially on days when I feel low.

How do you keep yourself informed and inspired as you navigate two rapidly evolving fields: storytelling and AI?

Answer   Ha! It can be a lot and if one isn’t careful, it can cause fatigue. But what keeps me going is my nature. I am a curious being. I read widely, attend events, and engage with people from different disciplines. Have you heard of this quote by Walt Disney, ‘’We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.’’? Curiosity fuels my creativity and keeps me open to new ideas.

If someone wanted to follow in your footsteps, what would you tell them about the intersection of tech, storytelling, and social impact?

Answer Be willing to always learn, even in unfamiliar spaces. The thing is, I didn’t start out in tech, but I realised how it could make our storytelling skills better. Be adaptable, stay authentic and true to yourself. Above all, always take into account your WHY and how this can help the community you’re serving.

With your experience as an entrepreneur, public speaker, and digital marketer, what role do you think technology will play in shaping the future of storytelling?

Answer  The present is already very interesting and I must say, the future will be more! Technology will make storytelling more interactive and immersive. See all the new tools being created. From VR to AI-generated visuals, we’ll be able to experience stories in ways we’ve never imagined. But the storyteller will always remain at the center, adding that human touch that is needed to preserve authenticity.

What emerging tech trends are you most excited about, and how do you see them shaping your work?

Answer I’m really excited about generative AI and its potential to create personalised storytelling experiences. My imagination is running wild now! Close your eyes and visualise an app that crafts a unique story based on your background, experiences, and aspirations. That would be a game-changer, wouldn’t it?

You’re also passionate about supporting women of color through tech and creativity. How do you envision AI helping women and other underrepresented groups succeed?

Answer  The beauty about AI, like I mentioned earlier, is that it can level the playing field by making resources and opportunities more accessible. Whether it’s tools for small business owners or platforms for creatives, AI now empowers people who’ve historically been excluded.

Your journey from Nigeria to Scotland is deeply intertwined with your work. How has this experience shaped your identity as a storyteller and leader in the tech space?

Answer  Hmmmmmm. My journey has given me a dual perspective. Now, I appreciate the richness of my heritage in ways I didn’t before and I also now understand the challenges of navigating a new culture. These two perspectives, you know, the duality, informs everything I do, from the stories I tell to the communities I serve.

You juggle multiple roles—publicity manager, storyteller, entrepreneur, and more. How do you maintain focus and stay grounded amidst all these responsibilities?

Answer  My family, faith and amazing friends are what help me stay grounded. Though I prioritise and delegate when I can, but honestly, my faith and the people in my life keep me centered and focused. They remind me of what truly matters and why I do the work I do.

What do you hope your legacy will be, both as a storyteller and as a tech advocate?

Answer  I want to be remembered as someone who made a positive impact and built bridges between cultures, communities, and ideas. If my work inspires even one person to tell their story or pursue their dreams, then I’ll be fulfilled and know that I’ve succeeded.