MEGA BUSINESS
Issue no: 01
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BUSINESS WITH
Phuti Ramafemo affectionately known as Ms. Blu is a proud 34 year old
single mother. She is a self-accomplished entrepreneur – proud founder of Poetic Joint, an art organisation specialising in promoting and organising events. She was born and bred in Polokwane Limpopo Province. She grew up in a village called Bloodriver just outside Seshego. Her passion for music and poetry compelled her to establish an organisation that represents the art of music and poetry. MAM interviews Ms. Blu to tell us about her career-path as a promoter and as a self-made brand.
Tell us about Poetic Joint.
It was established in 2012 by Phuti Ramafemo who had a passion for the entertainment industry and ended up pursuing it as a business. Now that is where the hip hop, poetry and jazz session started taking place and it gave artists a platform to showcase their talents and brand. As the business grew, she brought in two more members on board, Nkeisi Matshuisa and Kgabo Phihlela. The team is made up of a dynamic of young, creative and enthusiastic professionals, with vast experience in Events, Media, Marketing and IT. We rely almost entirely on the strength of our team and management.
How do you manage with promoting Poetic Joint and yourself as a brand?
It hasn’ t been easy. In fact it is a difficult mission because I can’ t separate myself from Poetic Joint. I would literally be lost without my team. I have a PR lady, Ms. Shaz Amor, she literally keeps me on tight leash and puts me back on track when she notices that my focus is getting out of hand( I see you my lady)
Do you need qualification and what studies should one consider to become a promoter?
I have found that there is only so far self-acquired skills can take you. One needs some basic education in the field they have chosen. One can take a six months course to get the basics right and the rest will fall in place.
What does an entertainment promoter do?
I basically deal with finding venues, booking artists, budgets, sponsorships, interviews. The list is endless.
What kind of events do you promote?
I promote anything from corporate functions( Seminars, Power Breakfast, Networking sessions, street events( Poetry and Hip-hop). I try not to limit myself to one sphere of events.
You’ re not only a promoter; you ' re a manager and a mother as well. Are there enough hours in a day to do what you have to do?
Not in this lifetime, my time is beyond limited and running a tight schedule is really a must for me. That is why I get a little frustrated when I’ m late for a meeting or someone doesn’ t honour an appointment.
www. megaartists. co. za August 2014 Page 26