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My Journey to Building a One-Person Business


Starting my own business was a personal decision driven by the desire to create a life that works for me—one that allows me to chase my dreams on my terms. I didn't want to follow a predetermined path; I wanted to design my own, where my choices, experiences, and growth define my success. My business journey isn't about fitting into a mold but about embracing the uniqueness of my story.

I am Phumelele Kunene, known mostly as a photographer, but I am also a filmmaker, brand strategist, and executive creative director of Still Imagery, a company I founded in 2015. Still Imagery is a one-person operation, which suits my preference for control, flexibility, and creative freedom. It gives me the power to choose my clients, set my pace, and align my work with my lifestyle.

My business wasn't born out of sheer ambition to make millions (althought that is also a part of the plan), but to craft a life where I could homeschool my son, make art, and provide for myself—on my own terms. Through entrepreneurship, I've discovered that business isn't just about financial gain. It's about personal development. The more I grow, the more my business evolves with me, offering me not just monetary success but invaluable life lessons.

As a solopreneur, I started as a photographer, but as client demands grew, so did my skillset. I ventured into film production, digital marketing, advertising, sales, and business development. Running all the roles in my business has turned me into a jack of many trades, allowing me to solve not only my own problems but also those of my clients. This journey of self-growth directly parallels my business growth.

Building a personal brand, like tending a garden, takes time and patience. I've been nurturing Still Imagery through digital marketing and advertising, and it's blossoming. My ability to solve my own problems led me to help others solve theirs, turning my personal growth into a business opportunity.

Character development plays a crucial role in entrepreneurship. Facing my own control issues has helped me grow stronger in business. Sometimes, you need to lean into your shadows and use them strategically to propel your business forward.

Ultimately, business is spiritual and personal. It’s about evolving as a person, facing challenges, and aligning your purpose with your work.

Want to hear more? Watch the full video to dive deeper into my story and discover how you can create a business that reflects who you truly are.





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