Wayne Saunders
Wayne's the boss
Londoner Wayne Saunders set up BossCrowns Productions™ ten years ago. The company specialises in video, TV and film production, and also provides training and mentoring for disadvantaged young people.
What gave you the idea for BossCrowns Productions™?
I was inspired while studying TV, Video & Film production at the Brits Performing Arts and Technology School.
From an early age I was brought up around the surroundings of the media.
My father was a photographer and my mother worked as a journalist for a small publishing house, so working with film and TV seemed natural and accessible.
What were you doing at the time you had the idea?
I was working on a video production project as part of the course. I called it a 'Crowns Production' because I wanted to get the highest accolade.
What was the first thing you did to try and make the idea happen?
I worked on the concept of what the company would be about, then looked into how to get it started.
Who helped you, and how?
I got some advice from the Princes Trust, family support and spoke to people including local business schemes and business owners.
When did the idea start looking viable?
When I set up a business account and, within a few months, had about £4000 in it. At the same time I was also making my first film under the company name with sponsorship from the Arts Council of England.
What obstacles did you encounter along the way?
People taking me seriously, because it was almost unheard of a young guy from Caribbean heritage setting up a business in the cut throat media industry.
Also, financial problems such as raising money, ensuring cashflow, etc.
When did the idea officially get up and running?
With my first ever production being premiered at the National Film Theatre, in 1995.
I made sure I finished my degree, then I really started to put more energy into the business.
I won a Millennium Award from the BBC and ITN, and had a number of successful films made under the company that received awards / sponsorships.
Future plans for the idea?
Our mission is to make BossCrowns Productions™ one of the biggest independent digital video production companies in the UK and a significant player in the film and broadcast industry. Also providing training through our Keep Moving Academy to empower the next generation.
Advice to anyone else who wants to make their idea happen?
If you can see it and you believe in it, don't wait for it to happen: make it happen. Keep moving!