While many young Malawians are caught in the cycle of job hunting, three entrepreneurs, Chisomo Kumbulani, Daniel Chiudza Banda and Timothy Kumbulani have taken a different path. They have formed Oasis Production. Our Contributor MADALITSO MTUKULA talked to one of them Banda who is also the publicist to know more about the group. Excerpts:
Q: What is Oasis Production?
A: It is an up-and-coming media company that is into audio and music production, public address and band equipment hire business. We also offer consultancy to music groups and praise team that want to advance in their music and performance.
Q: What inspired you to start Oasis Production?
A: I think it is about our togetherness. We have been friends since 1997 in Ndola Township, Zomba. We grew up in a church where we were exposed to music and equipment. That fuelled the desire to learn more about performance and production as well as the equipment involved in it.
Q: How did you start?
A: Oasis Production started like an idea. We all put in some resources from our savings and bought our first recording equipment. Sadly, one Sunday, while at church, thieves broke into the house we were keeping the equipment and went away with it. We were back to square one. However, we did not lose hope. We bought better equipment that matches the standard of production.
Q: Are there challenges you are facing at Oasis Production?
A: The main challenge is getting big and well-paying customers. We can also mention delayed or late payments after offering a service as a challenge since when you are in business, you plan from that business. You will be able to achieve one or two goals.
Q: Have you worked for any organisation?
A: We have worked with a number of organisations, some direct while others through sub-contracting. I can mention Tilitonse Foundation, Southern Region Water Board, Mott MacDonalds, Eagles Cathedral and Jazz Fever by Blue Notes Band.
Q: Apart from hosting events, what else do you do at Oasis Production?
A: As Oasis Production, we have not done many events of our own because we felt we need to grow first. However, we recently partnered with a group of worship leaders in Lilongwe to form The Tribe. We have done several events within the city and we are expecting to have our first worship session outside Lilongwe at the end of this month at Mzuzu Pentecostal Church.
Q: What advice can you give to youths who want to start something for their living?
A: I would say starting something is always difficult because you struggle along the way. But keep on pushing because tough times will come and go. It is also wise to invest in something that you are passionate about and you are also good at because when it gets hard, that passion is what moves you.n
