YOUNG entrepreneur Jermaine Newman is determined to make an indelible mark on Jamaica’s creative landscape. His journey began in 2017 with a spark of creativity and a relentless drive for self-improvement. Outgrowing his role as a merchandiser, he delved into the world of photography, recognising its potential as both an artistic outlet and a means of financial empowerment. A year later, Newman materialised this dream with the establishment of Camera TechSource Studio & Accessories Limited (CTS). The business has now expanded to service a wide audience, serving as one of the few local retailers that sells equipment for photography, cinematography and photo studios.

According to Newman, CTS has become a beacon of support to the creative community.

“CTS has grown significantly since its inception as a retail store, and has since become a vital hub of support for our local creative community. Our tagline, ‘Created by the industry, for the industry’, alludes to this. CTS now caters to a wide range of customers, from novice photographers and film-makers to experienced professionals,” he added. “We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive offerings while also catering to the unique needs of our clients. This ranges from equipment sales, repair, rental, consultation, and procurement services for both private and public entities.”

Newman now aims to deepen his connection with the creative community with the launch of what he has dubbed ‘Kingston’s largest indoor recording studio and creative hub’.

“As we anticipate the launch of CTS studio, we believe it will be a sanctuary for photography, cinematography, and boundless creative expressions. This visionary undertaking embodies our unwavering commitment to establishing an environment that nurtures teamwork, knowledge-sharing, and the crafting of groundbreaking content,” he said.

In an industry that is all about creative expression, Newman envisions Jamaicans taking the reins in shaping their own narrative. He understands that many content creators do not have access to the necessary resources needed to create content consistently and professionally. He calls on major players within the creative space to collaborate in order to create more opportunities for creatives.

“Collaborative effort and open dialogues have become imperative as we navigate the ever-evolving terrain of the creative industry. It is crucial for us to come together, pooling our collective expertise and diverse perspectives, to engage in comprehensive discussions. By fostering an environment of cooperation and shared knowledge, we can ensure that the industry continues to thrive, adapting to the future while preserving its vibrant spirit of creativity and innovation,” he shared.

Newman’s journey from a merchandiser to a driving force in Jamaica’s creative landscape is nothing short of inspiring. With resilience, innovation, and a heart for community, he has demonstrated that with the right mindset and dedication, success is not just attainable, but transformative. As the launch of CTS Studio approaches, the future holds exciting promise for both Newman and the creative industry he’s helping to shape.