Paul Mdiniso has the natural ability to throw parties that are always memorable.
Born and Bred in Mbekelweni of Swaziland just outside the country’s biggest city, Manzini, Paul started as a club promoter at a Durban night spot called Scallas Cafe in 2008, before he moved up to promoting three-night clubs at the same time in 2012 - Scallas, Afro Lounge and Plush Ultra Lounge then in 2013.
“I formally registered Wozobona then took the game to a whole new level.”
His knack for throwing good parties was not something he polished at school Paul is actually a qualified electrician who never practiced.
“Bringing people together was just in my DNA. The most fulfilling aspect of my role at Wozobona Media is the opportunity to craft unique experiences that unite people. Each event is a canvas where we blend social networking with entertainment, set against the backdrop of Durban's vibrant culture. It's gratifying to see professionals and socialites connect, unwind, and enjoy themselves at our gatherings.”
He says the challenges in the realm of high-end event planning are intense, thrilling, and demanding.
“It takes careful balancing to scale events to meet increasing demand while preserving an exclusive and personal vibe. We are always looking for locations that will hold bigger groups while maintaining the upscale look that our brand is recognised for.
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“Our ability to solve problems is also put to the test by logistical issues including maintaining constantly changing health and safety requirements, working with various vendors, and making sure every event goes off without a hitch, particularly in post-pandemic settings. However, these difficulties spur us to innovate and achieve success, guaranteeing that every Wozobona Media event is an unforgettable one.”
For Paul the most crucial element of hosting a memorable party or event is the atmosphere.
“The goal of everything we do is to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere, from choosing the ideal location to choosing the music and menu. Our guests can fully unwind, interact, and enjoy the event because of this environment.”
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He is hearing up to host an event attached to the Durban July called Any Given Sunday.
“Any Given Sunday' is a premium lifestyle experience that started in 2019. It's designed for elite socialites, entrepreneurs, professionals, and executives to network over a gourmet Sunday lunch. Attendees can expect a sophisticated ambience with smooth sounds at luxurious venues across Durban, each offering a unique view and feel of the city.”
His 2024 is stacked with other events beyond this one.
“This year, we've added 'The Wild Getaway Experience' to our repertoire, providing our diligent clientele with a leisure and cultural break. Ahead of us, we have a second 'Any Given Sunday' scheduled for mid-December and an event called 'Woz eDurban' on New Year's Eve, which promises to be an unforgettable way to ring in the new year.”
Paul says the future appears bright, as he intends to transform The Wild Getaway Experience into a historic event honouring South Africa's Heritage Day.
“Imagine a three-day extravaganza that turns the spirit of adventure into a major phenomenon in culture. All around the South Coast, we'll be holding empowerment seminars, exciting football matches and dance parties that will build up to a huge music, food, and fashion festival. A crowd of 20,000 is anticipated, making this the social event of the year and a masterful development of what 'The Wild Getaway Experience' first started.”
