Today we’d like to introduce you to Basha.
Hi Basha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a proud Tampa native who has always had a passion for bringing people together, whether it’s to share ideas, collaborate, or simply connect on a deeper level. That passion naturally led me into a career in hospitality and event management, where I gained experience across different areas of the industry, from event décor to large-scale event operations.
Several years ago, my journey shifted into the tech and innovation space. I began working with accelerator programs and entrepreneurial support organizations such as Tampa Bay Wave and Synapse to design events and programs that fostered community and collaboration. That work allowed me to see firsthand how powerful it can be when people have the right platforms to exchange ideas and build meaningful connections.
Most recently, I decided to branch out on my own and launched an event management company dedicated to helping tech and innovation-driven organizations build stronger program strategies and leverage events to create a more connected ecosystem. Through this work, I’ve been able to merge my love for event design with my commitment to strengthening the innovation community.
Now, I’m excited about my latest venture, CTRL+Create, which is designed specifically for creative professionals who use technology in their craft think photographers, videographers, music producers, graphic designers, and beyond. It will debut as an event next year, with the larger goal providing resources, collaboration opportunities, and visibility for creative professionals, whether they’re entrepreneurs or part of a professional team.
At the heart of everything I do is the belief that when people come together to share knowledge and experiences, stronger communities and new possibilities emerge.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not. My career has been far from a straight line. Early on, I faced financial hardships and went through multiple layoffs that forced me to pause, reassess, and reinvent myself. Each transition required me to realign with the caliber of opportunities that matched both my skills and the vision I had for my career. At times, it was discouraging because I didn’t see a clear or natural career path that aligned with my passion.
Those seasons taught me resilience and flexibility and has recently pushed me to recognize that sometimes you have to create the path instead of waiting for it to appear. Having spent years building programs and providing resources for entrepreneurs, it was now time to take that same knowledge and apply it for myself. Starting my own business has been both rewarding and challenging, every step has required me to stretch, to trust the process, and to keep showing up even when things feel uncertain.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
In the Tampa Bay region, there are a ton of resources that cater to tech professionals and creatives, but what about those who’s careers are at the intersection of creativity and technology. With our current work set-up many are working remotely or building their companies in silos often feeling disconnected from others who think and operate like them.
Being personally connected to music professionals, graphic designers, photographers, film makers, and other creative technologists, I wanted to use my prior experience and build something for them. An experience where they can learn the latest tech trends, connect with brands to create more opportunities, and connect with each other. That is where CTRL+Create comes in. What sets us apart is our focus on community and collaboration. We’re not only showcasing talent but also creating a space where creatives can learn from each other, discover new tools, and connect with brands and industry leaders that support their growth.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Yes, networking is all about putting yourself out there and is something I have to push myself to do every week. My recommendation is to subscribe to a newsletter or an event feed that shares events that you’re interested in both socially and professionally. If you don’t like being in large group settings you can also reach out to people via LinkedIn to set up virtual or in-person coffee meetings or luncheons. The point is to be intentional about who you want to meet and go from there.
Pricing:
- General Admission Tickets – $99
- VIP Tickets – $299
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ctrlandcreate.com/
- Instagram: @ctrlandcreate1
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ctrlandcreate/
