26 May 2016

Gorata Simon (25) of Kazungula did not give up when he could not continue to senior secondary school due to poor Junior Certificate results.

He was then employed by Wharick Company where he worked for four years as a labourer.

Speaking in an interview, Simon said he was passionate about cameras and he owned one that he used to take photos for fun.

One day while at work, his colleague informed him that he wants to process his PRDP but it was difficult for him to find cameramen for passport sized photos.

The idea struck his mind that he should be the one assisting a lot of people by taking passport size photos because the business was limited in and around Kasane.

He had never acquired any formal education or training pertaining to the use of a camera and business management, however he was adamant that through his talent, nothing would be impossible.

Simon bought two different cameras and a printer with the money he saved whilst an employee at Wharick and was positive his determination would bring success to his business.

His ideas were put into action in July 2015 when he started to ply his trade within the precincts of Kasane’s Department of Transport and Safety buildings.

His daily duties entailed photo shooting and this brought significant income to the business.

He advertised his services in and around Kasane.

He said a customer was at liberty to decide where to shoot a photo, rather than being in one place such as a studio and this made him to have an upper hand over his competitors.

His services were also extended to school activities, boat cruises and taking photos for truck drivers along Kazungula Ferry border.

The enterprising young man said since Kasane was a tourism destination, a proper picture was important for visitors, therefore he was not surprised to service an overwhelming number of clients who usually requested his services due to the talent and expertise he possessed.  

He stated that due to the vast number of customer demands, he planned to hire two employees who would assist him on other business logistics such as making appointments and timely delivery of photos within Chobe.

Simon also planned to own a photo and video studio.

 His overarching ambition was to impart knowledge and skills to other youth interested in photography.

He is looking for a training institution that would offer him an opportunity to nurture his talent and also to be a trainer of trainees.

One of the customers,  Mmoloki Gaotlhobogwe said Simon did a great job for the community.

He said they had been blessed with the services of the determined youth who was readily available whenever needed.

Simon said people should search and realize their talents to succeed. ENDS