Honouring his technological purpose and passion

Rubben Mabuku, a 29-year-old entrepreneur and audio-visual connoisseur, is laying the foundations for his tech-based legacy while making a living and building a brand in what many consider an unorthodox industry.

The vibrant and sociable Mabuku started his journey unintentionally through a mere interest in technology.

He grew up in the lively capital of Namibia after being born in the leafy village of Nongozi in Sangwali Katima.

Mabuku then officially embarked on his audio-visual trajectory in September 2015.

"I have always been a tech guy at heart. However, my passion truly materialised back in 2013 or so when I worked as a lounge manager, and as it always required some sort of maintenance around audio-visual equipment, I learned how to work with and repair various equipment. Shortly afterwards, I worked on the team that installed the new cinema equipment at both Ster-Kinekor branches in Windhoek before they reopened, and I worked as a projectionist. Little did I know that was just the beginning," Mabuku explained.

Start of a career

Following the unexpected start of a tech-based career, Mabuku was employed at dB Audio Namibia from late 2015 until July 2019, where he progressed to being the head of department before his resignation.

"Prior to that, I was running a photography brand based solely on my interest in the subject matter. The name of the brand was MR Photography alongside a complimentary pro-bono brand called MR Media for students and the church in regard to content creation," he said.

His current brand and flourishing business, under which he is building his tech-based legacy, MR TEC (Mabuku Rubben Technical Event & Media Consultants), is the brainchild of the aforementioned brands.



Accomplishments

Mabuku has repeatedly proven to be remarkable when it comes to executing and making sure events of various nature are on par, both visually and audibly.

"On the tech side, I have been honoured to service some of the world’s biggest acts such as Post Malone, Sam Smith, and the Weeknd, as well as Africa’s Cassper Nyovest, YoungstaCPT, Blackies, Gazza with the Milli Concert, NAMAS, and the recently held Burna Boy, to name a few. I have worked on over 1 000 sets."

He added: "However, what is often overlooked when it comes to event technology is the fact that that in itself already comes with its own challenges due to the technical nature of the job. For instance, having to explain to clients why a certain piece of equipment is needed for a certain production.



"What makes me happiest is post-production, when both the client and the audience are happy but also learning to embrace the changes that come with the job and still being able to deliver above standard quality."

Fun facts about Rubben Mabuku

• I listen to music every day.

• I write poetry.

• I find astrology and psychology interesting.

• I have basic knowledge of most Namibian languages including German (low-key wanted to be a translator).

• I’ve gone sky diving and faced my fear of reptiles.

• If I could go anywhere in the world, it would be Switzerland - not for the chocolates but for the cabins and mountains by the countryside.

• I’ve read all the Harry Potter books.

• I would choose flight as a superpower so I can travel the world, if not the universe.

• I’ve watched ‘Mad Max Fury Road’ more than a dozen times - also most scenes were shot in the Namib desert.

• I’m a hopeless romantic, I love love.