It seems like yesterday when Azuh Arinze, former editor, Encomium Magazine dared to venture out to start his now famous Yes International magazine.
Today, Yes International magazine has become a household name in the world of soft-sell magazine as it celebrated its birthday at the annual Yes International Lecture Series/ Cocktail Party.
The event which took place at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island Lagos on Friday 19 June, 2015 played host to many reputable people from within the entertainment industry including Onyeka Owenu, Saint obi, Isaac and Nneka of Goge Africa, Bisi Olatilo of The BOS Show, among other entertainers.
“We are all here to appreciate the efforts of Azuh Arinze, one is never too old to learn, the aim is to do something differently, create well and achieve success, embrace entrepreneurship as it is a good way to survive as we have seen from other companies. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, however it is not how well you start but how well you are willing to go”, said Biodun Shobanjo, Chairman Troyka Holdings who was also the chairman of the occasion.
In his lecture titled ‘Running a Successful Business in Nigeria: My Experience’, Lolu Akinwunmi, group CEO, Prima Garnet, who was the guest speaker shared his personal experience having been in the advertising business since the year 1992.
According to him, his idea to set up a business came when he was working for his former company he was not satisfied. “I set out and having clearly set a vision and mission of the company, put together shareholders all in other to take the company high. Watching and knowing that every unit was making progress and ensuring that the financial aspect was not left behind to avoid being bankrupt. He also made mentioned that the staff should be treated with respect and dignity and benefit also from the company’s profit. Your business also should have integrity which comes at a huge cost and not doing what everybody does. Above all try to adjust and be ready for any hit then survive and try to adjust and move on,” he said.
Furthermore, the July edition of Yes magazine was launched at the event with Onyeka Owenu on the front cover.
In his vote of thanks Arinze thanked all those who were there to support his vision of being a game changer in the soft-sell magazine industry.
“Thanks to everyone for coming, thanks to everyone that has honored me, thanks to everyone who has supported us, thanks to everyone who has picked up a copy of Yes, advertised with us may God bless you,” he said.
MARY OCHUGBUA
