Before starring in Hollywood blockbusters and producing powerful stories on screen, Razaaq was a student at Barking & Dagenham College where his journey into film and performance truly began. Razaaq studied Performing Arts at BDC before going on to train at the world-renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). It wasn’t long after that his career skyrocketed. He made his feature film debut alongside Russell Crowe in Gladiator and has since appeared in major productions like Black Hawk Down, Resident Evil: Apocalypse and Amistad – working with iconic directors like Ridley Scott and Steven Spielberg. But Razaaq isn’t just in front of the camera. He’s a passionate producer, writer and advocate for diverse storytelling, founding his own production company to bring bold, underrepresented voices to the screen. From Barking to Hollywood, Razaaq’s career proves what’s possible when talent meets tenacity.

"I had a great time during my time studying at Barking & Dagenham College. I am a self-taught artist, but it was my first time ever studying Fashion Design from scratch and learning how to sew, pattern cut and everything in between. My tutor at the time was very hands on and allowed me to utilise my strengths, but also made sure to get me to focus on aspects I wasn't as confident in. It was so much fun learning new skills but also a lot of hard work. When I left, I felt much more prepared and ready for the next phase in my pursuit for a career in the fashion industry. I definitely have many fond memories!"

In 2008, Hayden studied Fashion Design at Barking & Dagenham College before progressing to study at university. As one of the most recognised fashion illustrators in the world, he has been published and featured by Vogue, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar, Vanity Fair, MTV and the Daily Mail. As well as being recognised in major publications, his work has also been praised by Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, Naomi Campbell, Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande and many more. In 2014, Hayden collaborated with Rimmel London and Kate Moss to create fashion illustrations in support of Kate's first eye collection and in 2015, designed a modern interpretation of Cinderella's gown for Disney. To add to this list, Rihanna also recognised Hayden's work and used one of his illustrations as her Twitter profile picture, which led to Rihanna inviting him to one of her tour dates.

"My training in Performing Arts at Barking & Dagenham College really put me in good stead for the realities of the entertainment industry. The lessons I learnt were invaluable. Barking & Dagenham College is a great place to start for anybody wanting to begin their journey in Performing Arts."

Shaun trained at Barking & Dagenham College in Performing Arts and Technical Theatre, which was based in a real working theatre, The Broadway in Barking Town Centre. After being signed by Sony Music, he has performed all over the world and supported major artists such as Quincy Jones, Beverley Knight, Angie Stone, Mica Paris and Erykah Badu. As well as his incredible musical career, Shaun's theatre career has gone from strength to strength and has starred in Parade, Les Miserables, Mama I Want to Sing and in the role of Mufasa in The Lion King.