Events paint the tapestry of our lives, creating memories to relive, either with longing or abhorrence. Nothing defines memorable as a well-hosted event, where Johnmark Oungo, AKA Majey, caters.
We met during the East Africa Model Awards 2023 in Mombasa, a high fashion event where he ran point as the host, realizing the success of the first edition in collaboration with Peter Owino, AKA Peterz Model, and the Superstars House of Talents.
"The event in Mombasa was one of the first under management by the Fall Season," the fashion model began as we sat down recently. Boasting an enviable portfolio with experience in High Fashion and Pageant events management and hosting, the former Mr. Peace Kenya says it would be easy to balk under the stress and pressure of the industry without a vision and consistency in the game.
"Events management comes with trappings, making it equally easy to go wrong. One wrong move has a domino effect on the entire set," he says in contemplation, highlighting the recent spurt of failure in the country's events scene.
He recalls an event he was contracted to host on an action-packed weekend on which he had a booked calendar. Getting to the first event did not help matters as it ended up starting 3 hours late, completely torpedoing his schedule and putting him in the crosshairs of other organizers he was obligated to.
Johnmark, who has worked closely with Big Ted and Willys Raburu, says the major issues ailing the scene stem from indiscipline and poor time management, coupled with a deficiency in resources from partners and sponsors.
"Kenyans are a partying people, but things usually go wrong due to improper engagement. Players need to do proper research and build discipline to compete with international brands from the West and South Africa," he says.
When asked about the prices of tickets to events, which most Kenyans claim to be inflated compared to events of similar profiles across the region, Johnmark explains that organizers seek to break even, owing to the scarcity of resources due to few investors in the scene.
"We need to attract investors. That is why I strive to learn from every experience on the job. High fashion and Pageantry showcase beauty, translated into choreography, stage setup, and overall aesthetics. That and the energy are meant to be memorable for the audience."
Johnmark Oungo is also a
Mechanical Engineer and has held the titles of Mr. Fashion Kenya 2021, Mr.
Peace Kenya 2022, and Mr. Universe Kenya First Runners 2022.
His reflections, drawn from close to seven years in the spotlight and behind the scenes, paint a picture of an industry brimming with potential but in need of discipline, structure, and vision. In every event he touches, Majey's meticulous approach ensures the tapestry woven is one of brilliance and lasting impressions.
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