- Venturing into business as a photojournalist has allowed Joseph to exercise his creativity, take ownership of his work, and explore new avenues of storytelling.
In a time when the job market is shifting, and the uncertainties surrounding employment in Kenya are starting to sink in, young people (Gen Zs) have chosen to embrace self-employment over 9–5 jobs. Given the practicality of self-employment, one young man has stood the test very young.
At 23, Joseph Karume owned a photo studio and ran several businesses, all thanks to his camera. This has been his dream since he bought his first gear (camera) in 2019.
Popularly known as Wallah by his clients, Joseph has made remarkable strides in his career in just four years. "I began my entrepreneurial journey when I was 20 years old. I was a first-year student at the time I bought my first camera," said Joseph.
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While still at Kabarak University pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication, Joseph took the opportunity to hone his photography skills. He shot videos and took pictures of fellow students, charging a fee for his services. This helped him develop his networking skills and provided him with financial support during his time in school.
Through his connections, Joseph secured freelance gigs at other universities, such as Egerton, the University of Nairobi, and various colleges in Nakuru. Over time, he expanded his services to shoot wedding, conference, and funeral videos for high-profile individuals and institutions.
Joseph graduated in 2023, gaining valuable experience in the job market while still a student. What sets him apart is his dedication to learning. Unlike most graduates, Joseph turned to YouTube to enhance his photography skills.
This became even more crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic when schools were closed for approximately seven months in Kenya.
"I took advantage of that period to learn from YouTube and other professional photographers. I knew it was the perfect time to acquire the needed knowledge," he added.
Venturing into business as a photojournalist has allowed Joseph to exercise his creativity, take ownership of his work, and explore new avenues of storytelling.
"This approach has encouraged me to think creatively and seek opportunities in the media. Moreover, the entrepreneurial aspect has empowered me to take ownership of my work and explore unique storytelling methods," he explained.
Being his boss has always been Joseph's dream, so he is committed to entrepreneurship.
Joseph's talent and hard work have not gone unnoticed. He has worked on numerous projects for national television channels, including K24, KTN, and TV47.
Building a successful career requires more than honing one's skills and talent. It also entails mastering the art of financial management and developing a strategic business mindset. Joseph Karume understands the significance of these aspects all too well.
As he reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the crucial role that managing finances has played in his path to success. "Firstly, I budget my expenses to ensure financial stability," Joseph shares. But it doesn't stop there.
He explains how adopting a business mindset has been instrumental in his entrepreneurial pursuits. Understanding the market, investing in a marketing strategy to promote his work, and networking with potential clients have been critical elements of his approach.
Joseph advises aspiring photographers looking to embark on an entrepreneurial journey to focus on improving their photography skills. He emphasizes the importance of continuously honing one's craft, building a diverse portfolio, and staying updated on industry trends to stand out in a competitive market.
Joseph also highlights the significance of learning about marketing, networking, and financial management to establish a successful photography career.
Joseph faced several challenges throughout his entrepreneurial journey. The cost of purchasing photography equipment, which amounts to around 400 to 600k, was a significant hurdle. He also had to find ways to differentiate himself from other creative individuals and secure consistent work to maintain a steady income flow.
However, he has overcome these obstacles through determination and effective financial management.
Joseph Karume's story inspires young individuals seeking self-employment opportunities in Kenya's evolving job market. His journey, fueled by passion and a strong work ethic, showcases the potential for success in entrepreneurship.
