Creativity requires freedom

DAISY APONDI  [PHOTO: MAXWELL AGWANDA/STANDARD]

DAISY APONDI, 25, co-owner of  Mindflame Graphics chose self-employment because she wanted to exploit her creativity and potential. She told GARDY CHACHA what her business is about

What is graphics design?

Graphics design is an art that involves unique creations done using computer programmes and software that allow the bringing together of different characteristics of an imagination into being.

When did you get into graphics design?

It was while undertaking a computer basics training programme three years ago that I developed a great interest in graphics design. From that point on, I began fine-tuning my skills.

What were you doing before graphics design?

After high school at St Teresa Girls’ High School in 2005, I became a model. The world of fashion took me towards fashion design, but I felt something was missing. I also did fashion and clothes design before enrolling for computer training.

Why didn’t you seek to work with an established company?

Graphics design is an art. It requires minds that are ready to explore horizons. Getting employed would tether my imagination. I would be required to perform in certain ways that I might not agree with and I don’t like being restrained, not with all these ideas on my mind. I work with a friend, so I understand the modalities of employment. The desire to exercise my full potential led me to self-employment.

If your company became insolvent and had to close up, would you stick to your guns?

That would require a sober thought, but I guess in the event that I take up employment, I would only go into it with the intent of reviving what I started. I won’t allow my dreams to die.

How did you come up with Mindflame as a name for your company?

Design involves a lot of thinking and brainwork. This is how we arrived at Mindflame – it’s like a mind on fire.

So far, what has been your biggest business deal?

I have worked for several individuals, upcoming businesses, and organisations. However, the biggest deal I’ve wrapped up so far has to be one I had with Clarion Hotel. It propelled our company to a different level.

What kind of requests do you deal with?

We design Staff ID cards, brochures, business cards, fliers, book covers …just about everything that would require an artistic touch and finesse of creativity. The client comes up with an idea, advises us on how they want it and then we proceed to create an exquisite product.

How much education would someone need to be a graphics designer?

Formal education is important for everybody. Since the computer is at the core of the whole business, it is necessary for one to have sufficient computer knowledge. One must also be very creativity and artistic to excel in this business. However, graphics design is more than classroom learning; your mind has to connect with more than mere abstract. When you can create something appealing to the eye and captures different aspects or themes of what is desired, then you have what it takes.

If you were to do something else, what would it be?

Graphics design; maybe a different version. I have also not completely lost touch with my modelling skills and I sometimes do it when I find time. I, therefore, think going back to professional modelling would still do.

How is it co-running a graphics design business?

I co-own the business with a friend. We understand the business and respect each other in our capacities as equal partners. She is able to invoke new ideas in me, and I do the same for her. The secret is to work in tandem, separating business from pleasure.

What are your secrets this far?

Resilience, persistence, determination and the urge to be the best in the business.