Day 17

Nicholas Jones (aka Nicky Wire) graduated with a BSc in Politics from Swansea University in 1990. 

He is the lyricist and bassist with rock band Manic Street Preachers. The band was formed in 1986 and went on to achieve critical and commercial success. Over the years they have won 11 NME awards, eight Q awards, four BRIT awards and were nominated for the Mercury Music prize in 1996 and 1999. 

After graduating with a BA in Welsh and Politics in 1996, Jason went on to become a prominent voice and face across BBC television and radio. Known for hosting flagship programmes such as Final Score, Match of the Day 2, and BBC coverage of major global sporting events including the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, his journey from student to national broadcaster is a testament to his talent, passion, and the formative role Swansea played in shaping his confidence and career.

A graduate of the university’s law programme, Jones balanced his studies with a rising career in professional rugby, eventually becoming the most-capped player in world rugby history. He captained both the Wales national team and the British & Irish Lions, earning accolades including three Six Nations Grand Slams and the title of best player in the 2019 Championship. In 2014, he was awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University, and in 2024, he returned as Strategic Advisor to the National Network for Innovation in Sport and Health, helping shape the university’s future in sport, wellbeing, and leadership.

Anne Boden is a trailblazing fintech entrepreneur and the founder of Starling Bank, one of the UK’s leading digital banks. A Swansea native, she studied Computer Science and Chemistry at Swansea University, where her passion for data and technology began. Anne has held senior roles in global financial institutions and was the first woman to establish a British bank. She continues to champion diversity in tech and entrepreneurship, partnering with Swansea University on initiatives to support women-led businesses

Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi is a globally recognised activist and founder of the Stand to End Rape (STER) initiative in Nigeria. Her Swansea University thesis focused on gender equality and sexual violence, laying the foundation for her advocacy work. A survivor herself, Oluwaseun has reached over 200,000 people through STER, earning accolades including Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and TIME100 Next. She continues to inspire students and leaders worldwide, using her voice to drive change and empower survivors.

Graduating in Aerospace Engineering in 2014, David balanced his studies with a rising career in Boccia, a precision ball sport for athletes with severe physical disabilities. He won his first Paralympic gold just before fresher’s week and has since become the joint most successful British Boccia player in history, with multiple medals across four Paralympic Games. Honoured with both an MBE and OBE, David continues to train in Swansea and advocates for disability sport and independent living, embodying resilience, excellence, and the spirit of Swansea University.