I, Imran Abul Kashem, am an award-winning photographer, entrepreneur, author, educator, and CEO of West Plus Media Pty LTD. I came to Australia from Bangladesh in April 2008 as an international student with a dream of pursuing a career in the creative industry. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey that would lead me to where I am today.
I started Westend Photography, a commercial portrait studio, with the aim of capturing the essence of executives, business owners, and creatives through my lens. Over the years, I’ve grown the studio into a team of six photographers and we are now the only commercial photographic studio in Wyndham. I’m proud to say that our images have been published in Capture Magazine, Art Post and other national and local publications. My hard work and passion for photography have also earned me several awards in photographic competitions.
With my photography business, I’ve always been drawn to entrepreneurship and the idea of creating something from nothing. That’s why I started the Westend Business Hub, a co-working space, and the Monthly Local Business Networking Event, a platform where business owners and entrepreneurs come together to share and inspire each other. I am also in the process of starting the Westend Photography School, where I will pass on my knowledge and experience to the next generation of photographers.
I have been a board member of the Werribee Business and Tourism Association since 2020 and have had the honour of being a regional leader and an ambassador of Business Networking International. I have also been an emerging cultural ambassador of Multicultural Arts Victoria since 2018. These appointments are a testament to my commitment to the community and my passion for bringing people together. In 2022, I has received the Lalor Local Hero Award from Joanne Ryan, MP for contributions towards the Wyndham community.
My journey as a migrant in Australia has been filled with challenges and rewards, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am proud to be a part of this great country and to have been able to make a positive impact through my work and my community involvement. My story is proof that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible.
Photo credit: Westend Photography
Location: Holiday Inn Werribee
