Native of Kandy, Zoufrane Toungou is a dynamic and ambitious young man, who despite his degree in socio-anthropology, s’est lancé dans l’entreprenariat. A travers son studio « Baraka Photographie » il offre des services appréciables à la population de sa ville natale. In this exclusive interview, this atypical character reveals a corner of his personality and talks about his activities as a photographer but also as a socio-anthropologist.
Socio-anthropologist by training and NGO facilitator, what are you still doing in photography ?
The idea of doing business despite my master's degree in sociology came from big questions. I've always wondered if salary alone can meet my needs. What is the secret of great men like the Nigerian Aliko Dangote ? What did Steve Jobs do to mark the world? ? So many questions that have long tormented my mind. J’ai alors décidé de chercher le secret de ces grands hommes. C’est ainsi que mes recherches m’ont permis de découvrir que l’entreprenariat est la porte de sortie. Since I am an ambitious young, I got into it. Baraka Photography is the first step towards my ambition to create businesses.
Why did you choose photography ?
Photography, because first of all I am a photography lover (smile). I remember our moments of photo shoots using our cell phones in college. Ensuite, I think it's still an accessible area.. Kandi and, in general the department of Alibori, is favorable ground for professional photography. Finally, rendre service dans le sens de diminuer les tracasseries en offrant les services de qualités à nos parents parce qu’ils méritent en immortalisant leurs événements. C’est dans ce but que j’ai pensé installer un studio de renom.
Baraka Photography, what does that mean ?
The name Baraka was not chosen at random. It is the result of a long reflection. The word Baraka comes from the Arabic. It means blessing. In everyday language, this word evokes abundance in the areas of money, goods, family and all things positive. To have baraka means to be lucky, be blessed.
A company is first and foremost the workforce, what is the composition of the Baraka Photography team ?
For the time being within Baraka Photography, there is only one duo. Abdel Rachad Assouma Amadou who is the operational arm of the company. He is in charge of the technique. It's him anyway, the most important link in the company. He is the one who stays behind the camera and the screen so that Baraka Photography lives. And myself Zoufrane, in charge of the coordination of administrative activities and especially of the visibility of the company. Very soon we will launch the recruitment of an accounting secretary.
What are the difficulties encountered in this course? ?
We are facing enormous difficulties. But for us, these are not difficulties but rather challenges. Seeing that challenges are made to be met, we sacrifice ourselves to do it. Wearing the Baraka Photography top is our biggest challenge.
What is your source of motivation ?
To thrive in a field, you definitely need a model, a motivation that allows you to see further. Regarding Baraka Photography, it is some of our compatriots who are our source of motivation. Among these, we can quote César Gaba, Maya Picture and especially the famous Stéphane Bossart. The list is not exhaustive.
What advice do you have for Beninese youth in general and that of Kandi in particular? ?
My advice to the youth of my country in general and particularly to that of my commune, is to undertake. Young people should not wait to be recruited only in the public service. They must have the courage to implement the creative ideas they have in mind. I would like to paraphrase Fabrice Grinda to invite young people to undertake, “Whatever you may dream of doing, start it ».
Your final word...
I will not finish this interview without expressing my gratitude to Allah who allowed us to be able to set up Baraka Photography. Ensuite, I thank Gaskiyani Info for the work done by allowing us to follow the news in real time and also for the opportunity to express myself. Finally, my thanks to all those who believed in us and spared no effort to contribute to the greatness of our company. Seul l’effort fait les forts.
Interview by : Bachir ISSA