Meet Adam, our Alum & MAD’s New Photographer

"Through the Lens: The Story of Every Moment" with Adam.

“Make A Difference Now taught me everything I needed to know to jump start my photography business. They are now just one of many clients!”

How did you discover Make A Difference (MAD) Now?

I first discovered MAD one of their scholarship students taking their Business Education Empowerment (BEE) Program. What drew me to the BEE Program specifically was its focus on empowering young entrepreneurs with practical skills and mentorship. I saw it as a great opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, and to connect with likeminded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. Joining the program was one of the best decisions I’ve made it’s truly inspiring and impactful.

What's one memory from your time in the BEE Program that makes you chuckle now?

One memory that always makes me chuckle is during one of our group activities when we were supposed to pitch a business idea on the spot. Our group was so nervous that we accidentally mixed-up roles someone started giving the conclusion right at the beginning, and another person introduced the business in the closing remarks! We all burst out laughing afterward, but it turned out to be a great learning moment and brought us closer as a team.

If you could go back and give your past self-one piece of advice before starting the BEE Program, what would it be?

“Don’t hold back fully show up, ask questions, share your ideas, and connect with as many people as you can." The program is packed with opportunities, but you get the most out of it when you’re actively involved and willing to step out of your comfort zone. Confidence and openness make all the difference.

What's the most unexpected thing you learned in the BEE Program that's helped you in your business?

As a photographer and entrepreneur, the most unexpected thing I learned in the BEE Program was the power of storytelling in business. I used to think my work would speak for itself through visuals but I realized that how I present my brand, share my journey, and emotionally connect with my audience matters just as much. Learning how to craft a compelling narrative around my photography business has helped me attract more clients, stand out in a competitive market, and build stronger relationships with people who believe in what I do.

Photography and Videography

If your camera had a personality, what would it be like?

If my camera had a personality, it would be like a calm, observant storyteller always focused, patient, and ready to capture the perfect moment, even in chaos. It would have a sharp eye for detail, a quiet confidence, and a creative soul that sees beauty in the ordinary.

What's your favorite thing to photograph for fun?

Candid street moments. People just being themselves, natural light playing off buildings, kids laughing, vendors working in Mount Kilimanjaro, Rau Forest and all those raw, unposed slices of life. There’s something magical about capturing everyday moments that tell real stories without needing words. It keeps me inspired and reminds me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.

What's the strangest or funniest thing that's ever happened during a photoshoot or video shoot?

One of the funniest things that ever happened during a shoot was at a wedding when the best man, mid-speech, accidentally knocked over the wedding cake everyone gasped, but instead of panicking, the groom picked up a piece and jokingly fed it to the bride! I was recording the video, trying not to laugh too loudly behind the camera while making sure I didn’t miss a second.

If you could have any superpower for a day to improve your work, what would it be?

If I could have any superpower for a day to improve my work, it would be the ability to pause time. Imagine being able to freeze a perfect moment during an event no rushing, no missed shots, just capturing everything with absolute precision and calm. It would let me set up the perfect angles, adjust lighting, and never miss a key moment, especially during fast-moving shoots like weddings or sports.

Adam (in the center) with one of MAD’s students and volunteers from Salesforce visiting a village in Tanzania.

Business and Marketing

If your business was a movie title, what would it be and why?

If my business was a movie title, it would be "Through the Lens: The Story of Every Moment". It captures the essence of what I do—telling stories through photography and videography. Every shoot is like a scene in a larger story, and I aim to capture moments that people will cherish forever

What's the most creative way you've ever solved a problem for a client?

During a wedding shoot in a village where the venue unexpectedly lost power just before a ceremony. Instead of letting the situation ruin the moment, I quickly used my portable lighting setup and repurposed some of the decorative fairy lights to create a warm, intimate glow for the ceremony.

What's one marketing myth you absolutely hate hearing?

One marketing myth I absolutely hate hearing is You need a huge budget to make a big impact. As a marketer, especially working with small businesses, I’ve learned that creativity and strategy often matter more than a massive budget. With the right approach, even a limited budget can create a meaningful connection with your audience, especially through personalized content,

Connecting MAD and Your Work

How has your experience with MAD influenced your approach to business and client work?

Through the BEE Program, I’ve learned the value of a holistic approach balancing creativity with strategy and always focusing on building long-term relationships with clients. MAD has also taught me the importance of adaptability and staying open to feedback, which has allowed me to refine my services based on real client needs.

What advice would you give to current MAD students who are interested in starting their own creative businesses?

Don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks, but always stay grounded in your unique vision. The creative industry can be unpredictable, but your individuality is your greatest asset. Trust in your passion, and don’t get discouraged by early challenges or setbacks. Build a strong network, leverage the lessons from the MAD program, and keep refining your craft. Your creativity, paired with strategic thinking and hard work, can open doors you never imagined.

How do you see the connection between your work and making a difference in the world?

I see a deep connection between my work and making a difference in the world, especially through initiatives like the Rau Forest cleanup and showcasing the Business Empowerment Program. Photography and videography give me the opportunity to capture moments of change, action, and hope. By documenting events like the Rau Forest cleanup, I’m not just preserving memories I’m telling stories of community action, environmental stewardship, and positive change.

Moreover, through the Business Empowerment Program, I’m able to showcase the power of entrepreneurship and creativity, particularly for youth and women. 

If you could create a photography or video project that embodies MAD's mission, what would it be?

If I could create a photography or video project that embodies MAD’s mission, it would be a Portraits of Empowerment series, focusing on showcasing the stories of young entrepreneurs, especially women and marginalized communities, who are making a difference in their local environments. This project would highlight not only their journeys, struggles, and triumphs but also the impact of the Business Empowerment Program in helping them turn their ideas into successful ventures.

The project would combine powerful visuals with personal narratives, giving these individuals a platform to share their stories, inspiring others to take action and pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams. The final piece would be a multimedia exhibit that could travel to different communities, creating awareness and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

Quick Fire Round

Coffee, tea or coke during editing? (what would you choose)

Tea! Keeps me calm, focused, and in the creative zone.

One word to describe your creative process?

Every shot, angle, and edit has a purpose behind it.

Bonus Question

If you had to teach a class on one random thing, unrelated to your profession, what would it be?

It would be on mindful living and appreciating small moments. Just like Amanda, my first photography teacher who was a volunteer for MAD. She taught me to see beauty in the ordinary through a lens, I’d love to help others slow down and notice the little details in everyday life whether it's the sound of birds, the warmth of sunlight, or a quiet conversation. It’s amazing how much inspiration and peace we can find when we’re present in the moment.