Roderick Ejuetami, known by the name Deeds, was born in Lagos, Nigeria. He is a versatile artist, specializing in multidisciplinary photography and filmmaking, particularly renowned for his contributions to the Afrobeats and Global Music scene. Additionally, he serves as the Creative Director for Deeds Studio, a company that offers creative solutions on a global scale. Through Deeds Studio, he has collaborated on captivating projects with prominent companies and notable individuals in the realms of music, fashion, lifestyle, and the film industry. Some of his notable collaborations include Sony Music, Apple Music, Tems, Wizkid, Dr. Naomi Campbell, D Smoke, Burna Boy, Davido, Tiwa Savage, PFW (Paris Fashion Week), and many others.
Roderick finds immense joy in the fact that he can support his family while pursuing his deep passion for artistic endeavors as a career. This profession has afforded him incredible opportunities to explore the world and connect with exceptionally talented and like-minded individuals. He cherishes each day as a gift and does not take anything for granted. With a firm belief in God and his own creative abilities, Roderick is determined to never cease his creative pursuits. He remains constantly eager to engage in new projects and push the boundaries of his artistic expression.
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Roderick Deeds:
Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace.
I would describe myself as a fun, positive goal driven passionate person in and outside the workplace.
Describe your background and what did you do before you joined the company?
I studied to be a Biochemist. Completed and decided I needed to pick something I love as a career. Instantly choose the creative industry where I started as a freelance photographer.
Tell us about the inception of your career? How did it all start?
I started out as a freelance photographer, working with many individuals and a handful of production companies. I gathered working experience and enough capital to start my company Deeds Studio.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
Consistency, being intentional with my planning and executions while believing and understanding my vision. Producing a high quality standard of service on every project leaving every client happy and satisfied.
Which are the major services of your brand? What value-added services do you provide?
Visual production (Project based photography and film production and creative direction.) Value added services like Visual branding, Creative Consultancy and Community building.
What are the most important aspects of your brand’s culture? What principles do you believe in and how do you build this culture?
Quality control, creativity, authenticity, consistency. Community building is the very important aspect of my brand’s culture as it allows for general growth in creative culture amongst young aspiring creatives in the African and global creative industry thus building the company organic and creating more job opportunities.
What is the significance of innovative ideas?
EVOLUTION AND GROWTH.
What are your responsibilities as the Founder/CEO of the brand? What is the happiest part of your daily routine?
Building and leading a team, setting the vision, mission and overall strategy. Managing finances, relationships and communication with stakeholders and ensuring compliance generally.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
Be accountable, led by example, communication is key, set clear expectations and be open to feedback.