Haroon Rashid
From being 16 years old I was part of a band called `Fineapple'. I didn't like being on tour with the band and in the final year of my acting degree I began to change my priorities and think about my future career. In one of my modules I directed a film. I've always liked film and this was a way of testing my interest and ability. It was well received. I also joined the church around this time and got lots of support with goal setting and entrepreneurship. In Summer 2005 in started making my first feature film and in 2006 I approached Think Business for support.
Finisher Productions is a production company who create feature films, soundtracks, and corporate videos. The films are about real issues for real people and are fun and easy for the whole family to enjoy. The corporate side of the business is connected with problem-solving. Clients want a problem solving through film and we help them find the solution.
Coaching support and training has been the most useful. The coaches really wanted me to succeed. Think Business are people-centred and have a genuine wish to help businesses to thrive.
Making my first feature film `Life Without You' and having it screened in the cinema. The film premiere went so well, it was a dream come true to see other people enjoy it and give me positive feedback.
Getting a good balance between god, work and my family. Also, not knowing how things are going to work out and what decisions to make. Believing in yourself can be hard when you have to make difficult decisions. I had to choose to change one of my team members which delayed the film.
Be serious about your business and believe in yourself. Have clear defined goals, including specific dates. Surround yourself with positive people and those you aspire to and eventually you will become positive and successful too. As you aspirations grow, change the people you surround yourself with, so you continue to look up to them. Finally, read a lot and continue to learn and be honest and polite!
I'm working on my next film which should be launched in September 2008 and would like it to go on national release in the Cinema and be available on DVD. I hope to make another in 2009 and two in 2010, and I would like my own production studios in 4 years.
I'm currently working on developing the corporate side of the business and getting into the education sector. I will be starting a sister company in late 2008/early 2009; a social enterprise working with Schools.
I've been very happy with the support, why break up a winning team! Think Business has the personal touch and it would be good if the could keep their values. The coaches used are really good at setting expectations, being honest, challenging and nurturing. They're reliable, interested and engaged with the businesses and wanted to be utilised as much as possible.