V I D E O

Before attaining a master’s degree in journalism at Newhouse, Randy spent his undergraduate years in California as a broadcast journalist. He is well-versed in all stages of production, with primary expertise in subject-driven narrative storytelling and documentary-style work. Currently, his videography and video editing work is done on a freelance basis with a focus on music and fashion industry clientele. Samples of clips, full edits, and other video-related assets are available upon emailed request to randyplavajka@gmail.com.

Included below is a selection of narrative video work linked to the Syracuse Side Hustles podcast.

Syracuse Side Hustles | Memories Constructed

Woodworking is more than a hobby for Craig Donnelly. In his words, it’s therapeutic. After spending his days downtown as an insurance claims agent, he is able to come home and sketch, cut and piece together the business he has been formally building since December 2018: Donnelly Designs.

Syracuse Side Hustles | The change agent

When Indaria Jones was named one of CNY Business Journal’s ‘40 Under Forty,’ she made sure her entrepreneurial icon’s music set the tone for her walk-up. With ‘I Was Here’ by Beyoncé in the background, she solidified her status as one of the city’s greatest proponents of economic change, carrying that energy into her newest endeavor — an inclusive coworking space in the heart of the city.

Syracuse Side Hustles | What about the other children?

Dut Deng was once a lost boy of Sudan. He still remembers the struggles of fleeing the war, living in refugee camps, and trying to receive an education for a better future. Once he and his family resettled in Syracuse, he knew there was still more work to be done. With motivation and a spark from his wife, Dut founded South Sudan Initiatives, to improve the lives of children facing the same situation he once did back home.