( l - r ) Campbell, Azan

Event planning was not something Dominic Azan and Andrew-David Campbell had their sights set on. Azan has a background in finance and has worked for a United States multinational firm serving as a regional director, and Campbell is currently an airline pilot. But, the opportunity came and they embraced it.

"Party promotion was not something we saw ourselves doing. As young entrepreneurs and budding business leaders, we saw an opportunity. As friends, we always discussed enterprising ideas and when approached by the owner of the Orange Bay, Portland, property, this was the catalyst for our partnership. I guess you could say opportunity found us, so the Orange Bay Crest event was the first project and the start of our entrepreneurial experience."

Newly formed company

On July 5, the two staged their first Orange Bay Crest party shortly after their newly formed Bay Crest company in April.

To stage a party, especially during the summer period is normally a difficult feat and quite risky for new parties and promoters due to the magnitude of other well-established parties that take place during the same period. The two were, however, willing to take that risk while keeping certain important factors in mind. "We focused on the execution of our production and the satisfaction of our patrons and sponsors. Our primary focus was on the value patrons get from their collective experiences at our events. We believe strongly in what we are doing. Compromising on quality is not an option. Our patrons value their Bay Crest experience — being totally fulfilled."

Sponsorship

Sponsorship is critical for the success of major events and being a first-time event does have drawbacks. With vision and persistence, the duo managed to secure a number of sponsors. "The challenge was getting them to trust us that as individuals doing a first event we could deliver what we promised. We always believed in our vision, the challenge was to get the right people to give our pitch a good, honest look. We have great sponsors who all banded together and rallied around us after sharing our vision and enthusiasm."

With part proceeds of the party going to the Buff Bay Hospital, both Azan and Campbell want to continue to make a difference through their company. "We both have individual plans for self- actualisation, however, as the business partnership evolved, this project became the opportunity to form the company. We remain committed to looking for opportunities to make a difference, to impact and change the world. We believe very strongly in being the change you wish to see in the world."

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com