Young, fresh creatives have set up a media house which is rocking East London’s social and cultural scene.
West District Media founders Leeroy Mbire, 21, and Shelah Qabaka ,19, have a vibrant, innovative approach to photography.
From their studio at 11 Moore Street, Quigney, the duo is capturing life’s most memorable moments, and word is getting around. From matric dances and family shoots to corporate projects they are the go-to pair. What started as a passion for music videos has blossomed into a thriving creative enterprise.
What inspired you to start West District Media?
We originally wanted to shoot our own music videos. Then we got our first couple’s shoot through a friend’s reference, and that experience made us fall in love with photography itself.
When did you start, and how did that first booking go?
Our first booking was in October 2024. At the time, the company wasn’t official yet, but we already envisioned a future in photography. That made us realise we were good at it, and we decided to start a business.
How did you grow from two founders to a team?
At first, it was just the two of us, Leeroy and Shelah, going to every booking together. But as demand grew, we added Dini Kana, to help us manage multiple bookings in a day.
How has mentorship shaped your journey?
Sihle Nako has completely changed our perspective on photography. He taught us that patience with clients brings referrals, and that photography is more than just holding a camera, it’s editing, connection, and creating an experience worth paying for.
You’ve built a big client base quickly. How did that happen?
It started with our background in music, which gave us a wide network. From matric farewell bookings, we got our first birthday, sports, and family shoots, which are now our main specialties. Our determination and teamwork help us grow. Recently, we were booked by Gray Burmeister to shoot our first advert, which was a huge step forward.
What makes West District Media different?
We’re orchestrators in the way we do things. We don’t want to conform to what others are doing. We specialise in connecting with people, and we use those relationships to grow.
What challenges have you faced along the way?
One of the hardest moments was in June 2025. We were desperate for a new camera and found one on Facebook Marketplace at an affordable price. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a scam, and we lost all our savings. That month became our driest in terms of bookings. But by the end of June, we regained momentum, and July through August was our busiest period yet.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
Shooting seven clients in one day at West Bank High School, in our own neighbourhood. It was bittersweet — the workload was intense, but it showed us the demand for our services and confirmed that we were on the right path.
What’s your vision for the future of the company?
We want to grow nationally, starting with our city. We’re still young, but we believe we have a gift to go beyond where we are right now. Our dream is to build a franchise by the time one of us is 25, while continuing to capture the special moments of people’s lives.
How can people reach you?
Facebook: West District Media;
Instagram: West District Media
TikTok: AYP.West District
WhatsApp: 061-458-4263
West District Media is a shining example of what young visionaries can achieve with passion, mentorship, and resilience.
And as their journey unfolds, it’s clear this is only the beginning.
