The Covid-19 pandemic saw many South African technicians and theatre practitioners relocate, albeit temporary, to the bustling Dubai. Raylan Johnson is a sound and all-round AV technician from the Bluff in Durban, and he answered a few questions about his new journey.

Q: What work did you do prior to moving to Dubai?

A: Freelancing in media specifically for events in South Africa (from AV, lighting etc) for almost 20 years.

Q: When did you move to Dubai?

A: I moved in September 2021

Q: What work have you been doing?

A: I am a Front of House Audio Mix Engineer

Q: There are so many South Africans working on Expo 2020. What have you enjoyed about the experience?

A: Connecting on a global level has been overwhelming, many nations, so much talent,  especially after facing two years in this industry hit by the pandemic. To see nations pick themselves up and recover during a pandemic has been extremely motivating.

Q: What has been the most challenging part of your journey?

A: I would say having to leave my Family in South Africa has been challenging, as much as this has been a dream to work on this international level.

Q: What is your hope for the future?

A: To continue growing in this industry, and also to make an impact on the up and coming generations who choose this field. Also to keep learning as technology  progresses.