Up Close … with Shafira Charlette - The brain behind ‘Simple Creativity’ |25 October 2016

Shafira Charlette currently works for H. Savy Insurance. Although her work experience is mostly related to accountancy and business, she has always been passionate about the environment, so much so that most people know her as an environment enthusiast.

She also has an interest in singing and when she was younger she was part of the National Children’s Choir with Sir Bennet Accouche. She also used to draw and she was actively involved in art competitions organised for events such as Subios. Apart from drawing and singing, she also has a passion for photography.  

“So I would say I was born to be an artist – be it in singing or drawing but especially photography,” says Shafira.

How did your passion for photography and graphic design come about?

“Frankly speaking, I think that my passion for photography developed due to my interest in nature and its beauty. I am constantly admiring the scenery of Seychelles. For instance, the vegetation and its greenery.  After all nature is so beautiful, and it is well worth capturing it through photos.  Indeed God is an awesome artist himself.

“I only started to experiment with the art of photography when I was in secondary. I remember once, one of my IT teachers decided to liven up the class by installing Corel Draw on each of our computers, hence getting us all to try it out. He showed us how to do basic photo manipulation – changing the background, cropping and selection.

“I was so fascinated by this programme that I asked for a copy of the software right away, and afterwards I kept using it. Later on, I started using Adobe Photoshop.

“Then I got myself a camera and from thereon I took shots of whatever captured my attention.”

How does photography interlink with your other passion?

“Given my involvement with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) especially those dealing with environment protection, my photography and graphic designing skills have benefited me and the NGOs as I design their invitations, leaflets and posters.

“Also when there are fun outdoor activities such as hikes with friends and NGOs my skills come in handy as I am assigned the role of photographer for the day.”

An idea is born…

“At first having a camera was all about collecting memories from time spent with friends and family, it was not for any professional purposes. I would love to edit pictures, turning a dull photo into an interesting one hence grew the interest I have in graphic designing.

“Then my mindset changed when I realised the demand that exists for quality pictures that capture important moments such as weddings, birthdays and for advert purposes such as posters. I figured that with my talent I could try and open a business whereby I would provide these services at a very affordable price.

“As for the name, it started off as MC Designs then it changed to SC Designs and so on. It was hard for me to get a unique name for the business at first.  Then my boyfriend came up with the name ‘Simple Creativity’. I immediately approved. Furthermore, ‘Simply Creativity’ has the same abbreviation as my name and surname.”

So, what does ‘Simple Creativity’ cover?

“’Simple Creativity’ covers various things such as invitation cards for baptism, birthdays and weddings, posters for NGOs and businesses (corporate), leaflets, brochures, business cards, letter heads, gift vouchers.”

What are the challenges that you encounter in the business?

“Sometimes it is very difficult to get craft papers and materials here in Seychelles, so I have to purchase it online.

“I also find it difficult at times to reach the location where the photos are to be taken, for lack of a personal vehicle. But I always manage to make it one way or another, as I do value all my clients and I do not like to let them down.”

In your opinion, how easy is it for young people to succeed in starting a business in Seychelles?

“It is a little challenging, but with a good business plan and fervent determination, nothing is impossible. Of course there are loads of sacrifices involved; I had to invest my time, money and energy to turn my dream into reality.  

“To be successful doesn’t just happen overnight, it requires immense patience. 

“It is also highly recommended that you adapt to your clients’ needs and tastes, and to maintain a good interaction with them so as to build and sustain a fruitful relationship.

“There are also means of support such as the different organisations that offer loans to start a small business. 

“Finally to inspire other youths who may want to start a business, I would like to share two of my favorite quotes: “If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to help build theirs” – Tony Gaskins and the final one “In order to succeed, your desire of success should be greater than your fear of failure” - Bill Cosby.

Compiled by S. M. Barbé