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Soundroom Productions Ltd has made a name for itself in the audio-visual production industry. The company is credited with producing radio and television commercials for major companies and brands and has provided acoustical engineering support for many events. Behind the company, is its founder Denzil Alfred, who admitted that in his earlier years, he had no idea what direction his life would take. Growing up in poverty, being dismissed from a job and other “unpleasant” experiences, were some of the hurdles he faced along his journey. Here’s what he told MENtions.

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I was born in Guyana and came to Trinidad when I was three years old. I am the last of three boys and an older sister. My younger years were spent in Morvant, during which time I attended Bethlehem Boys’ RC in east Port of Spain. During those years in the single parent -led family, my life seemed normal, for the most part. But, when I was eleven years old, my mother got married and we lived in Malick, Upper Barataria.

After my mother’s marriage, there were major changes. I was now part of a bigger “step” family. This was not a very happy experience at all. When I started secondary school at St George’s College, it was the first time that I realised that I was poor; dirt poor, in fact.

In Form Three, when it came to choosing subjects or getting direction about a future career, I was confused because I didn’t have that support from my family. Everyone was more consumed with his/her own survival. In the last two years of secondary school, I still wasn’t sure what I was going to do after CXC exams nor what career I should pursue but I knew for sure that I did not want an ‘office job’ or anything that seemed monotonous.

Making the rounds

After secondary school, I worked for a short time in construction, then I went to work at one of the popular advertising agencies as a Courier. Two years later, with the relevant training, I was promoted to AV Producer. I stayed at that agency for a couple of years and in 1989, I left and went to another top advertising agency as a Producer. One year later, I was dismissed.

After not being able to secure a job in the industry, I accepted a part time job at a baking company. This experience was very unpleasant but it deepened my passion for electro-acoustics. I re-entered the advertising industry one more time to work on TV commercials but soon after, I left to work at one of our local TV stations as a Video Editor.

The Turning Point

Everything I experienced along the way, led me and inspired me to form my own company, Soundroom Productions Limited. With limited resources in the audio visual and production field, coupled with an absence of persons willing to mentor/guide, the early years were challenging and difficult.  After gaining experience and focusing on research and development to improve the business, I was able to position Soundroom Productions Limited as one of the leaders in the field with innovative technology.

I am happy that over the years we have been able to push the boundaries and deliver great solutions to our clients. My challenges and the unpleasant moments really prepared me for these proud moments

My advice to that young man who is in a difficult situation or confused:

It is important to realise early that life is not always fair and that you are not owed anything. Take time to understand your likes and dislikes, your strengths and weaknesses. Do not be dishonest but most of all, do not be dishonest to yourself.