Good morning forum members, today we talk to one of Zimbabwe’s Best Events Management Planner, Ms Memory Mandishona. She is a ZBIN member and is part of various ZBIN WhatsApp platforms such as Baking and Harare Business Group.
Tell the community about yourself
My name is Memory Mandishona aged 30 years, born and raised in Harare,Zimbabwe, from Murewa Chikwaka village, Totem Achihoro Nhari unendoro Nyamasvisva. A travel consultant and events planner by profession. Iam outgoing, self-motivated and have a proactive approach to work, and enjoy working as an event organiser. Passion in this industry has helped me achieve my dreams of running and establishing my own events and catering company. Iam also into the food business industry where I concentrate on baking and cooking.
History behind the name of your company and how long have you have been in the industry?
I named the company ‘Dora’s All Occasions’ after my mother who is my mentor and pillar of strength and established it in 2014.
Do you have employees?
I have a team of about 5 employees and they are on contract basis as functions are not always running during the year. My work includes research on venues, suppliers and contractors, and negotiating prices.
What do you enjoy most about your field?
I am passionate about my job and am always challenged to learn more every time, I like work hard managing my own team using my skills and creativity. It is a joy and a blessing to work with a talented team of professionals. Delivering a successful project brings immense joy and satisfaction to my team.
Your biggest project
My biggest project to date was when I was asked to plan and offer my services for the Botswana Embassy which was a success. This initial project opened more doors for us as referrals are very important in this industry.
Industry Challenges
There is no room for error in this industry; you have to be an expert at planning as clients do not tolerate excuses. You have to deliver high quality services which meet customer requirements. One simple mistake can set your planning back days, maybe even weeks and in this industry reputation counts-your reputation is your biggest asset!
The whole point of planning any type of event is to provide an unforgettable experience for your guests. Whether it’s an amazing and productive training session for employees, a wonderful birthday or anniversary party, or even a more casual gathering for a group of friends, a memorable event should be at the forefront of your planning efforts Food is a very sensitive aspect and one has to know the type of guests, the food they are interested in and issues such as availability and cost.
Opportunities
The greatest opportunities are you get the chance to network and interact with different people and most clients come from these interactions. A happy client means a happy event manager—which is why every professional relationship in the event planning business starts with a planner-client meeting.
Expansion Plans
I have plans to invest in other African countries and also cover other cities apart from Harare. I also intend to carry out webinar training for some of my clients who are outside Harare.
Festive Holiday Plans
Our busiest period of the year, so we are currently busy with a lot of events such as company end of year parties, weddings, graduation parties etc
Contact Details
Like my page https://www.facebook.com/Doras-all-occasions-catering-1491830011105882/?ref=bookmarks .
Contact me on +263718804243, +263775927479 and +2634573151
