Impact Media

What is Impact Media?

For this spotlight, we delved into the inspiring journey of Luca O’Grady and Oscar Hunt, two students at the University of Sheffield who defied the traditional work course and forged their own path with Impact Media Management, a digital marketing agency.

Best Friends to Business Partners

At the age of 14, a year shy of their GCSEs, Luca and Oscar pondered the age-old question: How can we earn some extra money without the constraints of the traditional, after-school job? After ruling out being paperboys and grocery baggers, they decided to harness their proficiency in technology and social media—a stark contrast to the capabilities of older generations—and offer a unique value proposition to local businesses: specialized website and technology services.

Recognition and Growth

Impact Media Management positioned Luca and Oscar as some of the youngest members of any chamber of commerce and enterprise in the UK; it catapulted them into the limelight with features in local newspapers and a notable interview by Toby Foster on BBC Radio. Then, the onset of COVID-19, although challenging, proved to be a turning point, as industries they serviced (like construction, utilities, and contracting) sought digital means to promote their businesses. Impact Media Management began to grow, exponentially.

Team Dynamics and Company Aspirations

We wanted to know how two, childhood best friends are able to work together successfully and productively. Do they divide up the work? Do they establish clear, professional boundaries? We soon discovered that Oscar’s sales and account management prowess complements Luca’s operational focus, ensuring a synergy that streamlines their business. Both partners are driven towards quality; they always make sure to put their best foot forward, keeping clear communication and bouncing off one another. For a marketing agency like Impact Media Management, quality is not a nice-to-have; it is a must-have.

They also emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude throughout any business process. Whether it's networking or managing a crisis, Luca and Oscar always say it is part of “show business” – a testament to their showmanship and the dynamic nature of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, we wanted to know if they had any “life hacks” or tips on how to stay productive, driven, and on top of their game… Luca and Oscar were quick to point out that balance is key. While they work countless hours, they note that it is highly important to do things for fun. Luca and Oscar enjoy golfing, bowling, and gym workouts. Moreover, a balanced diet and an affinity for tea (up to 8 cups a day!) keep them energized.

Milestones and Challenges

Every success story has its hurdles, and for Luca and Oscar, it has been the journey of client commitment and financial assurance issues; sometimes clients would back out of projects or fail to pay for their services. Despite these challenges, they’ve celebrated milestones such as securing investments, being finalists for Young Entrepreneurs of the Year, and acquiring an office space, demonstrating their enduring strength and unwavering commitment. Luca and Oscar are rooted in Doncaster and aiming for the stars; they stand as beacons of possibility, growing their business from scratch in a community where such success is not commonplace.

Words of Wisdom

Finally, we asked Luca and Oscar if they had any advice for aspiring, young entrepreneurs like themselves. Their message was clear: pursue your passion, stay consistent, never give up, and embrace your journey with showmanship. Entrepreneurship is not just business; it's also about making meaningful connections and embracing the essence of show business.

YFF's Impact on Impact Media

For Luca and Oscar, YFF has played a pivotal role in connecting them with aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs. The forum has been an invaluable resource of expertise with the speaker events and making new friendships with like-minded individuals, aiding their continued growth.

In closing, Luca O’Grady and Oscar Hunt's journey underscores the essence of our community at YFF—innovation, resilience, and the spirit of connection. May their story inspire you to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams with determination and imagination.

Here’s to turning visions into realities with the Young Founder’s Forum!