TABLE OF CONTENTS BBSS PAINTBALL TOURNAMENT 2012! RESEARCH!

MAD PAINTBALL 2010/11! COMPANY BACKGROUNDS! SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES! DESIGN CONCEPTS! FEEDBACK!

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4 6 8 9 11

PRODUCTION!
PRODUCTION LOG! SPONSORSHIP: BRUNEI SHELL PETROLEUM! BRUNEI LNG! DST COMMUNICATIONS! LOCATION! VISUAL COLLATERAL!

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15 17 20 23 26 27

BBSS PAINTBALL TOURNAMENT 2012!

PRESS RELEASE! PICTURES! SOCIAL NETWORKS; YOUTUBE, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM! SOCIAL NEWS BLOGS!

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30 35 37 39

CRITICAL EVALUATION! APPENDICES!

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BBSS PAINTBALL TOURNAMENT 2012

I produced a Public Relations Campaign for the Brunei Birmingham Students Society called the BBSS Paintball Tournament 2012. It was held on the 25th of February 2012 in conjunction with Bruneis National Day and gained the attraction of about 200 Brunei students in the UK, and was sponsored by three of the biggest companies in Brunei; Brunei Shell Petroleum, Brunei LNG and DSTCom. The YouTube video has almost 2,000 hits, and was covered by social media bloggers Ranoadidas and AnakBrunei, adding on at least 5,000 hits. It was also featured in online news Brudirect and Borneo Bulletin online and ofine, student society blogs as well in mobile applications Instagram and Path amounting to total coverage of approximately 28,000 hits just online, and about 100,000 ofine.

RESEARCH
This was done primarily into the different elements that would make up towards the creating of aims, objectives and plan of action. This was done in the following order; 1. Past success of Mad Paintball Tournament 2. Company background - BLNG, BSP, DSTCom 3. Coverage - Readership statistics, social networking sites popularity 4. Sponsorship letters and packages 5. Design concepts 6. Professional feedback and keeping up with trends

MAD PAINTBALL 2010/11

I wrote this article for the Mad Paintball event 2010. This was quite popular, however we didnt make much of a prot. The Mad Paintball 2k11 just managed to break even, seeing a loss in society money. There was no coverage of this event.

COMPANY BACKGROUNDS

Brunei Shell Petroleum is an oil company. In the same respects Brunei LNG is a Liqueed Natural Gas company. Both emphasize on the efforts of ethics, whether it be social, economic or environmental. They want to maintain the image of being caring. For these reasons I have chosen to have them both categorized under Social.

DST on the other hand is a dynamic, proactive company that maintains a high level of professionalism. This is why I have put them under corporate.

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES

Top: http://events.oasis-open.org/home/ forum/2008/sponsorship Left: http://www.penmaen-media.co.uk/ index.php/2009/09/creating-eventsponsorship-packages/ Below: http://www.inc.com/tools/samplesponsorship-letter.html

DESIGN CONCEPTS

These two images are the last paintball image and below the poster background of the current BBSS blog, The logo is on the top left of the paintball poster. They need to be revamped to give an updated fresh look to the image of the society.

Research was done by looking at other societies logos such as:

Left: Brunei Bradford Society Middle: Brunei Nottingham Society Bottom: Brunei Shefeld Society

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FEEDBACK Advice given by Prosynergy founder Kalel, He is trying to legalise paintball in Brunei.

Feedback from Brunei Keele Society

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Brunei Leicester Society

Brunei Manchester Society

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Left: No interest from Brunei Shefeld Society. Middle: Brunei Bristol Society Below: Brunei Loughborough Society

This is how I kept up with what was happening, so I knew what actions to take next.

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PRODUCTION
This shows the processes towards achieving aims and objectives; success of the event. This was done in the following order: 1. Production Log 2. Sponsorship " a) BSP " b) BLNG " c) DSTCom 3. Location 4. Visual Collateral 5. Promotion

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PRODUCTION LOG Nov 30th, 2011 # After our rst committee meeting, We talked about other ideas instead of paintball due to the declining demand and last years bad turnout. I have decided that I want to next years paintball as my production project, leaving it all to me to organize. After the meeting I organized everyone into groups so that we could work in teams. Having been to the last few paintball events I know where we have gone wrong and I intend to rectify it. I want to start with sponsorship, I know paintball is illegal which means asking government organisations for sponsorships is not going to happen, so I will aim for private companies with my sponsorship and budgeting group. # In the meantime Im going to approach the founder of Mad Paintball, Dr Aammton Senang to ask for his opinions on what I should do, as well the founder of Prosynergy paintball, Mr Kalel Rahman as hes trying to legalise paintball in Brunei. * # Having approached them I have found that they both tell me not to have high hopes. Dr Aammton thinks Im wasting my time by looking for sponsorship, but Im determined to go for it as I have nothing to lose. Dec 6th, 2011 # Over the past week I have managed to discuss with my team which companies we could go for. I will be taking BSP, BLNG and DST. My plan of action for now is to create a proposal of some sort. However I have so much work for now. This will have to wait. We have had a meeting today to discuss where were at, Im trying to nd a new location, just to freshen things up, pick it up from from we were left at last year. Im going to try to go for the best, with the plan to have it subsidized. In case it doesnt work out Ill still have time to look for a different location. I have met Julie, my supervisor, and she is not convinced of the project. She says its too small a project. For now I cannot disagree. I have yet to set actual goals and so on. It should come with the proposal. Dec 16th, 2011 # Today I went to visit the National Paintball Fields, and its great. The only problem is the price. However Im condent that we will get sponsorship. I realize that I have been making the wrong approach in writing the sponsorship letter, after researching it with Siddiq, the events coordinator I realize that Its not a proposal, its just an actual letter, with sponsorship packages. It is only while constructing this letter that we come up with actual objectives and strategies, I am happy to get this out of the way because now I actually feel like Im going in the right direction. Constructing the letter was easier than making a long proposal, but was still time very time consuming. With feedback from the MD of BLNG himself, he said the letter was too formal, not enough about social obligations. As we tried to tweak it it seemed hard, so instead we made two separate letters. One corporate, one social. Im afraid this project might be too big for me. I guess well nd out with the sponsorship responses. Amir, a graphic designer within the society has already done a teaser poster so I have asked everyone with Instagram to spread the message, to create a build up to the event!
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Dec 28th, 2011 # I got it! I got the sponsorship from BLNG for 1,000! I have to say that this is an amazing achievement, and truly an amazing feeling. I was at a loss though, on how to reply. It felt like a whole different professional level. # I was supposed to launch the registration on the social networking websites today but I dont think were ready, and I dont think anyone will pay attention, So ive decided to do in the rst week of January. I have yet to make a promotional video, Ive already got the footage from a friend, who won the tournament last year. It was shot with a helmet cam. Looking forward to editing this and build on how adept I am with Final Cut Pro. # On a side note I have already booked with National Paintball Fields, they dont require a deposit, just a full payment a week before the event. I got a deal based on about 700 pellets per person, for 40, and the equipment, gameplay and awesome environment. If Aammton is right by saying its not about the money, but the actual game, then this should work. The nearer towards the launching date this gets the more anxious I get. If this doesnt work It will all be my fault. Im not letting that happen. Jan 11th, 2012 # Its the new year. I have only just sent the sponsorship letter to DST as they asked for visual aid. The campaign has been out for over a week now, and although it is well received, we have not had any teams sign up. With the deadline in less than three weeks I am starting to worry. I have a friend who has decided to look out for responses from other Brunei UK societies, many are saying it is too expensive. At this point I wont be able to pull this event off, not with the current situation. Im already thinking of a plan B, to hold it at a cheaper place, but then I will have to change everything last minute. Im afraid then that I wont have time. Jan 30th, 2012 # A few days ago I got an email from Matt from Warped. He has offered me a great deal, due to this I have had to cancel the location at National Paintball Fields. I have also chosen to do this because we still have not had any teams sign up, although they have the interest. Brunei Bristol Society has gotten back to me saying that theyre having their own inter-society paintball event, and so is Leicester. Im not happy about this and recently talked to the President of the Brunei Students union about this matter. I was given a calendar that showed society activities, and found ours to clash with many other activities. The people at National Paintball Fields were very understanding. Now Im racing to meet the deadline to get all the deposits in. Matt needs 10 per person each, and we dont have that money at all. The pressure at this point is terrifying. # Through the change I have had to inform BLNG and they have supported my decision. I made this decision with the other BBSS members as I want them to feel that their decisions matter. Having lead this group, which now has no formations, about 15 people actually care about whats going on so I feel it is my job to keep them motivated and have transparency with them, listen to their advices. I have yet to give up on sponsorship. No one has gotten a sponsor except myself. I have reevaluated the budgeting and have sent out altered proposals to both DST and BSP.
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SPONSORSHIP: BRUNEI SHELL PETROLEUM

Dated this Monday, 28th December 2011 Hajah Masni Haji Munir, Head of Corporate External Affairs, Brunei Shell Petroleum, Kuala Belait, Negara Brunei Darussalam Dear Madam, Sponsor Invitation For the 6th Annual Paintball Tournament in conjunction with 28th National Day, 2012 Organized by Brunei Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] The Brunei Birmingham Students' Society (BBSS) is made up of students from several universities and colleges located in the city of Birmingham. The Societys primary objectives are to foster strong relationships amongst its members through organizing regular religious and social activities, that is, building a Family away from home. One of our aims as a society is to support freshers in their settling stage as overseas students; BBSS drives this initiative further by organizing events that unify not just students in Birmingham but over 200 students from all over the United Kingdom. To celebrate Bruneis National Day, the Brunei Birmingham Student Society has held an annual paintball tournament for the past 6 years which has been successful in gathering students from Brunei Student Societies in the UK. This year we would like to invite sponsors to support the aforementioned event. We offer 3 Packages: Premier !2,000, Platinum !1,500 and Gold !1,000. The collaterals associated with the package, are appended overleaf. Our flagship event has in the past consistently attracted high media coverage, with many web/ printed pages being covered by the media e.g. Borneo Bulletin and Bloggers e.g. Ranoadidas, AnakBrunei etc. Pictures from the previous events have been viewed by thousands of people in both UK and Brunei, from widespread Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other media channels. As most students are tech savvy, the awareness of the event will reach both targeted and mass public within seconds. If BSP decides to support this event, BBSS can ensure BSP that your Corporate Logo will be prominently featured in publicity campaigns and collaterals, depending on the package type committed. Families of UK Students, their friends and followers of the aforementioned Bloggers, readers of national media will all be made aware of BSPs sponsorship. We await your positive response to our invitation to sponsor. Kindly contact the undersign for further clarifications on or before January 16th 2012, as we would require at least 5 weeks to prepare all collaterals. Best Regards, Fatin Haziyah Mohd Safri Brunei-Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] United Kingdom Contact | fatin.safri@gmail.com | [44] 7599 648196

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BRUNEI LNG

Dated this Monday, 28th December 2011 Mr Azlan Abd Aziz (HCE), Secretary of BLNG Sponsorship Committee, Corporate Affairs Department, Brunei BLNG Lumut, Negara Brunei Darussalam Dear Sir, Sponsor Invitation For the 6th Annual Paintball Tournament in conjunction with 28th National Day, 2012 Organized by Brunei Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] The Brunei Birmingham Students' Society (BBSS) is made up of students from several universities and colleges located in the city of Birmingham. The Societys primary objectives are to foster strong relationships amongst its members through organizing regular religious and social activities, that is, building a Family away from home. One of our aims as a society is to support freshers in their settling stage as overseas students; BBSS drives this initiative further by organizing events that unify not just students in Birmingham but over 200 students from all over the United Kingdom. To celebrate Bruneis National Day, the Brunei Birmingham Student Society has held an annual paintball tournament for the past 6 years which has been successful in gathering students from Brunei Student Societies in the UK. This year we would like to invite sponsors to support the aforementioned event. We offer 3 Packages: Premier !2,000, Platinum !1,500 and Gold !1,000. The collaterals associated with the package, are appended overleaf. Our flagship event has in the past consistently attracted high media coverage, with many web/ printed pages being covered by the media e.g. Borneo Bulletin and Bloggers e.g. Ranoadidas, AnakBrunei etc. Pictures from the previous events have been viewed by thousands of people in both UK and Brunei, from widespread Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other media channels. As most students are tech savvy, the awareness of the event will reach both targeted and mass public within seconds. If BLNG decides to support this event, BBSS can ensure BLNG that your Corporate Logo will be prominently featured in publicity campaigns and collaterals, depending on the package type committed. Families of UK Students, their friends and followers of the aforementioned Bloggers, readers of national media will all be made aware of BLNGs sponsorship. We await your positive response to our invitation to sponsor. Kindly contact the undersign for further clarifications on or before January 16th 2012, as we would require at least 5 weeks to prepare all collaterals. Best Regards, Fatin Haziyah Mohd Safri Brunei-Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] United Kingdom Contact | fatin.safri@gmail.com | [44] 7599 648196

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DST COMMUNICATIONS

Dated this Monday, 9th January 2012 Mr Idris Vasi, Chief Executive Officer DST Group of Companies DST Headquarters, Jalan Tungku Link, Negara Brunei Darussalam Dear Sir, Invitation to be the Premier Sponsor For 6th Annual Paintball Competition in conjunction with 28th National Day, 2012 Organized by Brunei Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] The Brunei Birmingham Student Society, hereinafter referred to as BBSS is accredited by the Brunei Student Union, UK to facilitate the annual paintball Competition, now in its 6th year, in conjunction with Bruneis 28th National Day, in February 2012. Kindly refer to attached document. Our flagship event is open to all Brunei Students in the UK, and is usually participated by about 200 over students representing 14 UK Students Societies @ 15 participants per team. BBSS is the designated organizer as the National Paintball Field is located at Bassetts Pole, Birmingham. This year we would like to invite sponsors; the BBSS is approaching the Top Companies in Brunei to become sponsors for the aforementioned event. We offer 3 Packages: Premier !2,000, Platinum !1,500 and Gold !1,000. The collaterals associated with the package, are appended overleaf. So far, we have the honor of BLNG and BSP sponsoring our event. Our event has in the past consistently attracted high media coverage, with many web/printed pages being covered by the media e.g. Borneo Bulletin and Bloggers e.g. Ranoadidas, AnakBrunei etc. Pictures from the previous events have been viewed by thousands of people in both UK and Brunei, from widespread Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other media channels. As most students are tech savvy, the awareness of the event will reach both targeted and mass public within seconds. If DST decides to support this event, BBSS can ensure DST that your Corporate Logo will be prominently featured in publicity campaigns and collaterals, depending on the package type committed. Families of UK Students, their friends and followers of the aforementioned Bloggers, readers of national media will all be made aware of DSTs sponsorship. The Future. Now is DSTs rebranded slogan. We, as students invested in by the Brunei Government and Brunei Shell, can identify with this as we are part of Bruneis future workforce. We are also current and potential DST customers. Let us work with DST to bring your brand overseas and amongst the youths in Brunei too. We await your positive response to our invitation to sponsor. Kindly contact the undersign for further clarifications on or before January 16th 2012, as we would require at least 5 weeks to prepare all collaterals. Best Regards, Fatin Haziyah Mohd Safri Brunei-Birmingham Student Society [BBSS] Contact | fatin.safri@gmail.com | [44] 7599 648196

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DATE March 29, 2012

Brunei Birmingham Students Society

OFFICE 18 Tiverton Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6BP PHONE +447599648196 EMAIL bbsspaintball@gmail.com

TO Group Corporate Communications DST Communications Sdn Bhd PROJECT TITLE: BBSS Paintball Tournament 2012
DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT PRICE COST

BBSS Paintball Volunteer Hoodies

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21.73 ! 434.60

Subtotal

! 434.60

Total

! 434.60

Payment can be made to: Bank Name: HSBC Bank Plc Address: 130 New Street Birmingham West Midlands B2 4JU Bank Country: United Kingdom Bank Name: MISS F H B MOHAMAD SAFRI Bank Account No: 21404601 " A/c Currency: GBP" Sort Code (UK): 40-11-01 Swift Code:" MIDLGB2102K IBAN No: GB43MIDL40110121404601 Thank you very much. Sincerely yours, Fatin Safri Public Relations Ofcer Brunei Birmingham Students Society

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LOCATION

This is the email I got from Matt from Warped, Just when things were going badly.

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VISUAL COLLATERAL

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BBSS PAINTBALL TOURNAMENT 2012

This shows coverage of the actual event in the following order: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Press release Pictures Social Networking Sites & Apps Social news blogs Borneo Bulletin

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PRESS RELEASE The 25th of February 2012 marked an important day in the calendar for Bruneian students around the UK. It was seen as an opportunity to celebrate Negaraku Brunei Darussalam, Bruneis 28th National Day. This very reason united 200 students from different Brunei UK societies at Warped Cosford Paintball Site. The annual BBSS Paintball Tournament was back in its sixth run, and with a fiery hot vengeance. The teams participating were BruWick, Bruneians in Warwick, Team Trolls, a group with members from Newcastle, Birmingham and London, Bradham Havoc from Bradford and Nottingham, Rolling Thunder composed of students from London, Sheffield, Manchester and Loughborough. Wales sent their Welsh Guards while Loughborough sent Lufbru Elite and Keele sent the Chronic Keelers. The BBSS sent Birm Reapers and Bru Bots. Some teams included players from the local community, to share the patriotic values in celebrating Bruneis National Day. After the teams settled in and geared up for the tournament, the marshals called for a briefing. The game this year was different. Instead of the usual Capture the Flag matches played over the years, the organizers decided to introduce scenario-based objectives, which meant that teamwork and quick-thinking was crucial in achieving the goals. Rules and gameplay were only explained in the battle zone. As the message started sinking in, teams started discussing tactics and strategies to lessen the possibility of being dominated. Feelings of excitement, anxiousness and for some, fear were shared amongst one another. In front of them, the gleam of forty-eight gold miniature paintballers stood, waiting for those worthy of them. Winner trophies sponsored by BSP and BLNG.

As the first two teams were called out on to the battlefield, Rolling Thunder and Bru Bots made themselves known. While Bru Bots waited to go through the army netting to get their guns, most of Rolling Thunder were already equipped with their own e-markers and distinct attire. The team consisted of players from last years winning team. However the look on their faces said it all- they didnt know what to expect. Bru Bots was mentally prepared, knowing that there was no place for the faint-hearted in this game. In a different division, Bradham Havoc and Birm Reapers took their places on a different map Supporters and volunteers followed as spectators, watching intently from the dead zone.

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Players being briefed before the games.

A participant in action on the battlefield.

It proved to be a hard competition, many matches ending in close results, as all the teams had their own unique specialities. While like Rolling Thunder, Welsh Guards were reputable for being a strong team, Lufbru Elite and the BBSS teams had once won the tournament. Bradham Havoc were known to be serious contenders, while first timers BruWick, Team Trolls and Chronic Keelers highly exceeded expectations with winning streaks.
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In the battle zone.

Hours passed, and although pellets were depleting and the energy of the players were diminishing, there was an adrenalin rush, victory being the reason for some, for most it was an intense, eager enjoyment of what had happened and what was coming next. They cherished the little breaks in between that was used to rest, pray, making and catching up with friends over steaming cups of hot chocolate in the cold weather. As points were accumulating on the scoreboard, there were not one, but two teams tied in first place. There were also two teams tied in second place. An epic battle ensued to be a tie breaker, and as the games ended, the winners were evident. Third place belonged to the Welsh Guards. Captain Isa Sukarni thanked his teammates while cheers filled the air, and commented; On behalf of the BDSSW, Id like to thank the Brunei Birmingham Students Society for organizing yet another 'paintastic' event. Personally, attending the event for the third straight year, I found it to be the best yet, and Im sure I can say the same for the rest of the team. Even though third place was just as good as first for us, we'll be sure to come again next year and get a higher spot on that podium. Welsh Guards celebrating their victory

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Second Place went to the Chronic Keelers. On being handed the trophy, captain Fadhli AlShokry was ecstatic, saying; Its a good experience participating in the tournament and it was an unexpected success for the Chronic Keelers as this was the first time that we are participating as a team but seems like the teamwork and commitment has brought in success. Chronic Keelers would like to thank BBSS for the amazing event and hope to meet again in the years ahead. It would be nice one day to see this sport being practiced in the homeland, Brunei Darussalam. Chronic Keelers on winning the second place title

The winners of the tournament emerged to be Rolling Thunder, Second time first-place winner captain, Fadhlan Yakob later stated; I would say it was just alright. No big deal. We won. Okay, who am I kidding, WE WON! The committee was responsive and really good in organizing the event. The fact that they have managed to secured sponsorship for the event just shows how dedicated the organizers in making the event a success. We had so much fun during the event and best of all is we celebrated our National Day in this fashion. On the other hand, our team has done so much preparation and training. We even bought 4 walkie-talkies just to improve our sense of communication in the field! Rolling Thunders, champions of the BBSS Paintball Tournament 2012

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On that note the BBSS Paintball Tournament 2012 came to a smashing end. We would like to thank our sponsors BSP, Brunei LNG and DST for supporting the event. BBSS president Sarah Ghani says; "Alhamdulillah, the event was a great success. All students enjoyed the exciting battle. We also celebrated Brunei's 28th National Day by singing Brunei's national anthem together. At the end of the day, it made us all winners. BBSS Players and volunteers rejoice on the end of the amazing event. Hoodies were

sponsored by DST.

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PICTURES

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SOCIAL NETWORKS; YOUTUBE, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM

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SOCIAL NEWS BLOGS

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NEWSPAPER In the Borneo Bulletin, 12th of March 2012.

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CRITICAL EVALUATION
Introduction
# With pre-requisites in Television, Web and Public Relations I decided to do a

campaign for Brunei Birmingham Students Society, by taking over their annual paintball tournament. The event had been going on for ve years and had lost interest from the Brunei student population in the UK, slowly deteriorating in numbers and hype over the years. The committee wanted to try to change course, look for a different activity for people to participate it after last years event managed to just break even in costs. I decided to take over it as I thought I could bring what I had learnt from my Public Relations modules into practice. I sought to give it an edge. I wanted to carefully plan measurable steps, with set objectives, aims and strategies in mind. The BBSS Paintball Tournament 2012 was held on the 25th of February, gained the interest of about two hundred students and for the rst time ever, the event was sponsored by three of the biggest companies in Brunei, DSTCom, the leading telecommunications company, oil giant Brunei Shell Petroleum and its partnering company Brunei LNG (Liqueed Natural Gas). It managed to obtain almost 2,000 hits on Youtube, coverage on famous social media blogger websites, online newspapers, and was featured in local newspapers. It made a prot of 1000 pounds, making it the societys most successful event to date.

Research and Editorial Skills

# So much research has gone into the making of this project. Initially I wanted to

change the location of the event, as it has taken place at the same location for all these years. I had to research possible locations, weighing the benets and advantages, considering factors such as costs incurred per person based on guns,
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pellets, transport costs as well as the gameplay to ensure it was worth it. I learned that although the location was important, more important was the costs of having the event in those locations, I realized I had to be realistic about costs, as it was a determining factor in pulling the crowds interests. After the initial location was chosen, I tried to obtain sponsorship. Before doing this however, I researched for paintball groups in Brunei to see if this was possible as paintball is not legal in Brunei. At that stage the event was still called Mad Paintball Tournament, this being what it was called over the last few years in honor of the man who brought paintball to Brunei. I talked to Dr Aamton Senang, who told me that I would be wasting time trying to nd sponsorship and should focus on promoting the event, Mr Kalel Rahman had his doubts but tried to help (refer to Research). From them I wanted to nd out the current climate surrounding this issue in Brunei. It was benecial for me to talk to them, knowing that I wouldnt be able to have this information anywhere else. Despite the responses I decided to try anyway, because I wouldnt lose anything by trying.

In writing the sponsorship letters, I lead a sponsorship and budgeting team with

the events coordinator of the society, Siddiq. We researched different techniques of writing sponsorship letters. As we were sending the same letter to around 15 companies, we tried to construct a one-size-ts-all letter but this turned out to be wordy a document. After getting advice from the Managing Director of Brunei LNG, he told us we should write up a social sponsorship letter alongside the corporate one we already had. They differed in emphasis, the corporate one, purely promotional, the other, based on society objectives (refer to appendices). We then sent out these letters based on research on the companies, corporate or otherwise, as well as the right emails to send to. To me, this wasnt about companies being corporate or social, rather the image that they wanted to maintain to the public.
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After the sponsorship letters were sent out, I worked on promoting the

campaign. I put up the Facebook page that invited Bruneians to the event on behalf of the BBSS, more than 800 people out of the 2000 Brunei student population in the UK were invited. We also researched into different societies, targeting those with large numbers, we called the presidents of each society, asking them to help build a team. The importance of knowing the target audience was benecial as we had to create strategies around them. I used research I had previously made in my PR modules to know how to approach the target audience, mainly online, as well as mobile apps such as Instagram and Path.

Research was made into paintball videos, as to what kind of music was usually

used, it also gave me an idea on how to edit it and what shots I could use. I found it to be an essential component when moving on to a different process whether it was a design for the hoodies to the cups and containers we used for catering food, so as to crucially maximize efciency, time management and lessen costs, most importantly it allowed me space to create solutions to problems that arose with handling this project.

Management of Process
# In previous years the Brunei Birmingham Students Society organised the event

within the hands of its eight committee members. Upon taking the project I was It was held at Warped Paintball, and although they were usually charged 32 per person, the BBSS increased the price to 38 per person to accommodate for food and trophies, making a prot of a few pounds from each person. From the decline in participants, I found this was due to location, gameplay and transport costs on the already costly experience. My rst plan was to change the location, from obtaining sponsorship,
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subsidize costs per player, at the same time cover all the other expenses that came with the sponsorship packages and have money left over for the society. This was the ideal plan. At the end of November I put this plan into action after all the research done. I decided to involve the whole society of 40 people into decision-making by splitting them into groups to split the workload, with committee members leading these groups; design (for posters and hoodies), social media, sponsorship and budgeting and others, which included food, transport, location, trophies etcetera (see Appendix).

Within my sponsorship and budgeting team, I gave each person in my group

three companies each to target and manage. I myself managed BSP, BLNG and DSTCom. I gathered committee members to meet every fortnight for updates on progress. By the end of December we had gotten BLNG on board, we had our promotional posters, images on Instagram and Path, and in the rst week of January launched the campaign onto social networking sites, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, blogs. From mid-January I pushed for meetings every week. It was getting worrying at this stage as we had not received the sponsorship money and not had anyone signed up. I had a friend who was a mole, joining each Brunei-UK society on Facebook to see if they were interested (see Research). The price was set at 40 for National Paintball Fields, the best paintball location in the UK, inclusive of food. Although I hoped to lower this, I couldnt as the sponsorship money was just enough to cover trophies, food and banners. As it neared the end of January I received the positive response from BSP who had agreed to sponsor us 1,500. However, BLNG had not made payment and I soon begin to realize, a month before the actual event, that the ideal was ceasing to become a reality.

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Warped had emailed me, telling me they were willing to give us the price of 26

per head, if we could give them the numbers they wanted, 14 teams with 16 people each. With the small amount of time we had left, we had to somehow pull in a large amount of people and still pay for the expenses, so I spread the news out that we were charging 28 pounds each. Although this attracted many Bruneians, I sought the help of all the active members, around 15 of us, to nd friends around the UK to make up 14 teams, before the 11th of February. This was difcult, and we only managed to get 9 teams. I negotiated with Matt from Warped, to cut 1000 pellets from each team so that he would let us keep the 26 pounds per person.

A little over a week from the event we obtained sponsorship from DSTCom, who

sponsored 434.60 for our hoodies. I was still waiting for the other companies to make their payments before spending on the collateral for the event, as due to last years event, there was a little over 50 left in the societys bank account. Due to time differences I stayed awake to make calls at 3am to the companies to emphasize that we couldnt go on without the money. It was a tough time. The responsibility I carried on my shoulders was immense. I wasnt just carrying the events success on my back, I was carrying these companies promises, the image of the Brunei Birmingham Students Society and the trust of its members.

As it proved over the next few days that no matter how much I tried, the

sponsorship money wasnt going to be in the bank account by the week before, I did what was unthinkable to me from the beginning and the very situation I wanted to avoid at all costs: borrow from friends. In the last ve days before the event, I managed the food, buying the ingredients, the containers, utensils and other things we needed to accommodate the catering, I sorted out the trophies, the hoodies, the
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banners. I had the help of the BBSS members throughout. On the night before the event, I watched over the packing of food as many of the members came to help, I suggested ways to speed up the packing process. What was usually done by 2am in previous years was done before midnight.

On the day of the event, With my team of volunteers, I went around to make

sure everyone was attended to if they needed any help, I spoke to participants for feedback. I also sorted out the problems associated with the points scoring. Although the event did not turn out the way I expected, I was happy with the turnout.

I managed coverage, writing the press releases. Even with coverage there were

problems. A journalist wrote the article for us in the local newspaper, without our consent, and missing valuable information. I have written to the Borneo Bulletin to complain. I am still managing this project to this very day, as although it is May, payment has only been made by DSTCom due to problems with payment being made to a personal bank account (See Production).

Professional Context
# Dealing with this project meant that I have had to deal with different

professionals. Although the BBSS members are all friends, I carried out this project in the most professional way possible, scheduling meetings and updating everyone on the BBSS Facebook group page. The experience taught me that whatever I wanted I had to lead by example, and that being a leader was hard, having to bring people together and keep their interest. All of the professionals that were involved with this project inputted something different, that helped me make decisions for this event. Both Dr. Aamton and Mr Kalel were professionals leading paintball groups. They both
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gave me advice on the current paintball situation in Brunei, they gave me new aims to look forward to, such as raising awareness to legalise paintball, a different perspective of looking at this event. Their advice allowed me to be ready for rejection, not to expect anything, and encouraging me although my ideals werent realistic at that point of time.

With BLNG and BSP being a multinational company as an extension of Shell, I

learned the ways of professional communication, and its possible aws, that pratices of an organisation can depend on the country and its culture. I learned that communication problems can lead to slow decisions being made. I have had to follow up on emails to remind them about the payment. A week before the event I had also given them a call in the efforts of hopefully speeding up payment. The response I had gotten was harsh and unexpected; asking us to postpone the event if we did not have the money to execute the event. This showed me that I had to approach them differently as they came with a variety of personalities, teaching me to be exible and adapt with each individual. It gave me glimpse of the working environment, similar to what I encountered in my attachment in a media company over summer last year.

With DSTCom, It was a refreshing experience. They sponsored us without

conforming to the sponsorship packages (refer to Production). They knew what they want, but were open to negotiation in some parts. To me, It was a valuable insight. Everything was processed quickly and efciently, through one person. The company showed me that everything was negotiable, and that working relationships could still be maintained out of respect for the others decisions.

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Technical Skills
# The production project benetted my background in TV as it gave me a new

experience, editing others footage. The footage was obtained from a player last year with a helmet cam. It tested my abilities on Final Cut Pro, which I am more familiar with. However the last time I used it was years ago. This gave me the opportunity to learn the new software and time to be adept at it. It gave me the condence to edit without help.

In terms of web, I have been able to put what Ive learnt in my modules and use

it practically. This allowed me to keep in trends on Facebook and Twitter, as well as give me ideas for mobile applications. I can say that I am more comfortable with using online promotional methods.

Public Relations is what the campaign is centered on. From this experience I

have instilled an importance of having a clear set of aims, objectives, strategies as well as a carefully planned time scale for the whole campaign. I found crisis communications essential to the success of this project. Quick positive thinking that I learnt from my classes was put to use in sticky situations, especially with time as a constraint. It has taught me to communicate with people more effectively in meeting these objectives. I have learnt to manage risks, and be organised in a time limit to make sure everything is done in the best way possible. It has shown me that teamwork is crucial, and that being a leader is more than just giving out instructions, Its about guidance, motivation, a shared mindset and moving in the same direction.

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Flair and Creativity

# Handling this project has made me realize that great ideas arent always

practical. Creating strategies with the audience in mind posed a harder challenge than what I rst thought. I wanted to create an interactive campaign that allowed people to have a certain backdrop to show they were going to the event. This didnt work out because there wasnt anyone that I knew willing to do so, or knew how to. I moved on and focused my attention on all the visual collateral for the event. As I myself am not adept at photoshop, I asked a member of the committee, Amir, who is doing graphic design at Uni to help out. We discussed ideas for the images, coming up with concepts, something eye-catching, starting with a teaser image.

If I have learnt anything in terms of creativity, It is that two heads are better than

one. With this production project, I fought to revamp the BBSS image, the previous logo was outdated and was done in a rush. I brought the members together for a big meeting, and asked everyone to contribute. This logo was featured on all the hoodies and letterheads sent to the companies that sponsored us. It gave us a new image. It was part of why the name of the event was changed, to give us a professional edge, different to others. I saw it as a rebranding, to show others that we were in for a new start, and that we could continually improve. We sought to be original, set apart, a stand out from the crowd. We did not want to be overlooked.

During the course of this production project, I started off with a different type of

creativity in mind, something more individual and personal, however it wasnt viable, and arguably creativity should be viable. At the end of the day I achieved creativity through group efforts, and it paid off because these images were well received by the audience and the companies.
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Conclusion
# Handling this production project has been an amazing, valuable experience,

probably the most important in my academic life to date. It was an eye-opener, and has taught me so many things I could not have learnt just from doing the module. It has shown me that to bring ideas from theory into practical, real life situations is hard and needs constant patience, diligence and determination just to make it successful. The responsibility was overwhelming but I told myself that I could do it, I could pull it off and without the help from professionals, and the other BBSS members I could never have achieved it.

It was my rst do-or-die experience. The stress from the pressure, especially in

the last weeks gave me newfound strength that I didnt know I had, It came from the condence I had to exude to ensure the others that everything was ne and would work out, even when I myself had doubts. From this experience I learned to deal with different personalities, situations and ways to react, the importance of organisation, time keeping, and a back up plan for when all goes wrong. It has also quickened my problem-solving and research abilities. Most of all, It has been an unforgettable adventure that I can now proudly associate with my academic life. # #

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APPENDICES
This section shows additional information: Meetings

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We have had a meeting on our upcoming paintball event next year. It is held in conjunction with Brunei's National Day. Insyallah we plan it to be held on the 25th of February 2011. Just a little background information. The Birmingham Mad Paintball event has been organized by our society for 5 years now, the next one will be our 6th. Over the past few years we've kinda lost a little bit of that spark (Boo)! This year, we're planning on bringing sexy back! We're getting our thunder back!We can do this by working together! Biber fever! Okaaaay so anyway (Saiful's line) So what we have done is come up with categories in which we have split everyone up into groups where we think you would be best suited. However if you don't agree with your role and what to change it, or even not take part, comment on this post! For helping out we'll give you a volunteer certicate that will make you CV's look nice :) We should start by telling you the objectives of the upcoming paintball event, and these are as follows; - Acquire a new paintball location for a fresh start. - Better equipment available as well as increasing the number of pellets per team. - Come up with better strategies to maximize the experience of every individual thatparticipates. - Get better awareness from students around the UK, as well as Brunei for this event, by creating posters, promotional video and other social media forms, perhaps an interactive campaign. - Aim to donate a sum of our prots to a Bruneian charity (SMARTER) for the benet of creating something good out of our event. - Attain support and sponsorship from affiliations such as the UPP and BSU, amongst others such as DST, BSP and so on. So as a result these are the groups! DESIGN; This group will be creating posters, designing shirts, and rebranding of the BBSS logo and image. This group will be led by Amir and Ahmad. - Fatin Shoy - Shaee - Attiya - Mina - Afwan - Helmi - Salehin - Aliaa SOCIAL MEDIA; This group will be in charge of exposing our event through facebook, twitter, blogspot and campaign. This group is led by Izzat and Umi - Arif Akinari - Fatin Safri - Umi - Izzat - Sarah - Amirah - Hazim - Hay - Faizan
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- Sid BUDGETING, SPONSORSHIP, CHARITY This group will have the responsibility of budgeting costs and risks for the event, attaining sponsors,and contacting SMARTER. This group is led by Fatin and Sid. - Amirah - Wen Yee - Saiful - Tony - Sarah OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF This group holds all other groups together. This team will be looking at locations, paintball perks, yummy food, shiny trophies and... coming up with the tagline that we will use on all our promotional content! This group is led by Sarah and Saiful - Mumui - Iyan - Hana - Tan - Diane - Dahiya - Aisyah - Faizan - Yasmin - Shafathin - Ladyanna - Imah - Andrew - Ignatius

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