Tell us about your company Crossover Kenya.
In 2011, there were a lot of changes in my life, one of which was the fact that I was turning 30. I was at a place in my life where I was thinking of what I had achieved, and what else I would want to do. I wanted to be my own boss and really go for entrepreneurship. I was so inspired after watching the film Eat Pray Love and really connected with Elizabeth when she went to Italy and learnt the word "Attraversiamo". This means "Crossover" and this gave birth to my company and of course the blog. The blog is about my thoughts on various current affairs and recently, I have included poetry. Since I love movies, I went on further to have my movie blog, FilmiVeryFilmi, in May 2013 when Bollywood was turning 100.
You are enthusiastic about art, culture and all things in the creative field. What sparked your interest?
My family comes from a line of singers and musicians, because of our Sikh culture and the singing that we do at our temples and functions for prayers. I believe the love of music has been a part of my life since childhood and quickly followed the interest in Bollywood movies because the drive-in culture was such a rave. When I started working at East FM in 1998, I realised how much more there is in the world of music, arts and culture. How different cultures celebrate, mourn or live their everyday lives. Thereafter, it has been an interesting discovery by networking, dining and meeting new friends from all over the world. But mostly, I have been greatly inspired by movies and books.
What would you count as a must-watch movie this year?
Bollywood is seeing an amazing collection this year, from Padman, Hichki, and upcoming Namastey England, Thugs of Hindustaan and Zero. I would pick Manmarziyaan. This is a somewhat comeback film for Abhishek Bachchan, son of superstar Amitabh Bachchan and he will be doing a beautiful romantic film. As for Hollywood, they've already scored big with Blank Panther. I am looking forward to Mowgli because it has been directed by Andy Serkis who did a marvellous job with the film Breathe.
You previously worked as a radio presenter then switched to TV. What made you change careers?
When I got the opportunity to become a news anchor with Citizen TV, I chose TV because it was time to grow in another medium.
What challenges do you face in your line of work?
While the entertainment industry has grown tremendously in Kenya, we as creatives are yet to be well paid. There are times people expect you to emcee an event for free or when you are sharing your idea on how they can improve their marketing, they say, their son/daughter could do a better job.
How does a typical work day look like for you?
It starts with an early start and a browse through news around the world. Then tasks for the day, meetings, a definite episode catch up on Netflix and time to read and of course, write and keep the ideas moving forward.
What is your life maxim?
Punctuality, timing is everything.
What advice would you give someone who would like to pursue your line of work?
Be consistent, be yourself, be honest and most of all enjoy what you do, otherwise you are wasting time.
When it comes to blogging, many people don't quite understand the mechanics of how it can make money. Can you blog professionally?
Blogging is fun and the money does not roll in immediately so be prepared to be patient. If you are thinking of making it your income earner then you will have to spend on marketing it on various social media platforms to earn the hits. Yes in the long run, it can earn you nice money, just don't give up.
Which blogger do you find inspirational and why?
I am inspired by Seth Godin's blog and that's because he is a unique marketing guru. His blog posts are short and honest. They have consistently been my go to for inspiration.
Do you have any major projects mapped out for your blog this year?
Yes, I do, so watch this space. I have already started writing poetry and so far, I love it.
Which is your all-time favourite series and why?
Game of Thrones because it broke the norm of TV series in terms of sets, scenes and story. The entire scheming, strategy and mystery is just too amazing, not to add on the locations, costumes and of course performances by actors who started as unknowns and have grown to become icons because of their characters.
You're studying Psychology and Counselling; does this in any way influence your writing?
Yes, it most definitely influences my writing. For example, I will shed light on how situations or people affect people, society or the world, rather than just state facts. It gives me the opportunity to empathize more with people.

About The Author

Author
Alix Grubel

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