Our History

In 2010, Josef Tzegai Yohannes had a unique idea - to create his own superhero, The Urban Legend. Inspired by his experiences in African countries and a desire to provide positive role models to children from different backgrounds, Josef created a superhero who gives a voice to the voiceless.

Although he faced adversity in Norway, Josef did not give up. Presenting his superhero at Comic Con in San Diego, he secured a deal with a publisher. Soon The Urban Legend was featured in USATODAY, marking an important breakthrough.

The growing success led to The Nelson Mandela Foundation inviting Josef to become a Nelson Mandela Ambassador in 2014. Together they initiated a project in South African schools and established a special educational initiative for children focusing on school and learning. The Urban Legend has become a recognized superhero, and has received several international awards, including "Best Entrepreneurial Artist" at the Nordic Startup Awards in 2018 and the OXLO award in Norway in 2021.

The superhero has taken up important themes in his special editions, from bullying and racism to climate change and first aid. As part of the school curriculum in several countries, The Urban Legend has collaborated with renowned organizations such as the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Malala Yousafzai, Audi, Disney, 20th Century Fox and the Rainforest Foundation.

More than just a superhero, The Urban Legend also represents a reminder of the importance of being a good person. Urban Legend emphasizes that change and helping others always begins with ourselves, and that we all have the power to make the world a better place for ourselves and others.

Steve Baker is the illustrator behind the captivating visual elements that bring The Urban Legend to life.