Mavis Amankwah | Marketing & PR

Rich Visions: Ethnic Marketing and PR Company - Position: Director

www.richvisions.co.uk

Precious: How and when did you come up with your business idea?

In 1994, I began organising beauty pageants and social events in the African Caribbean community on a part time basis and I managed to create many contacts within the Black media and community. I was then headhunted by several large organisations to organise and promote events, products and brands. In 2004 I decided to give up my full time job as an IT Manager and open up a new company that specialised in Ethnic Marketing and PR as I had a good network of contacts and potential clients.

Precious: What did you do before you launched your business?

I had worked within IT and ICT Training for over 8 years. Prior to that I worked at the Child Support Agency and within the NHS as an Administration Manager. I have qualifications in ICT, Management, Marketing and Adult teaching. I am currently doing a BA Hons degree in Business/PR at Middlesex University.

Precious: Tell us about the business planning stage.

I gained experience in business through learning, attending courses and working with business associates who needed assistance in starting out their new business. I managed to write a draft business plan, when I first started and am now in the process of revising the business plan as so much has happened over the past 18 months, and so much is due to happen in the next 18 months. I did not receive any financial backing to start my business. I had to put in my own money and worked gradually on securing small contracts from various clients.

Precious: What setbacks did you encounter?

Finance and trying to convince large organisations that Rich Visions were capable of handling their ethnic PR and Marketing needs.

Precious: Describe a typical working day.

It involves prioritising and re-prioritising as well as advanced planning as you need to meet press and clients deadlines.

Precious: What do you love most about what you do?

When people come up to me and say 'I know or have heard about Rich Visions'. It assists me to work harder and ensure we deliver a good service to our clients and business associates.

Precious: Is there anything that you dislike?

Not having enough time in the day.

Precious: Are your family supportive of you?

Yes, my husband is very supportive and gives me a lot of tips and advice. My mum is a Pastor and is always praying for the development and growth of the business.

Precious: Where do you see your business in five years time?

I see my business being a recognised ethnic marketing and PR brand in the UK, Europe and Africa.

Precious: What do you do to relax?

I hardly relax, only when I am sleeping (running a business, being a mother, being a wife, and playing a big role in the church, makes it hard to find time to relax). I know that I will be able to catch up with all the relaxation I should have now, in a few years time (hopefully!)

Precious: What's your advice to potential female entrepreneurs?

When starting up your own business get as much advice and support as possible from professional business advisors and consultants. Use networking as one of your main marketing strategies, as you never know who you might meet.

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