Comedian Rohan Gunter got his big break in 2006, after winning the Si Wi Yah Entertainment-produced competition, Comedy Buss.

After winning the competition, he became an overnight success performing at events locally and internationally.

However, the comedian said despite the fun-filled nature of comedy, it is a serious business, and comedians should be compensated for their work.

"Comedy has been very challenging for me. In some instances with friends and promoters, they still don't see the value of the art form. I take this comedy thing very serious and, as such, I will not display my talent free, unless it's for a worthy cause," he said.

fighting the fight

"I know what I am worth and others. Kudos to the foundation comedians, who are still fighting the fight for the recognition and compensation for the art form," he said.

In an effort to maximise profits from his talent, the comedian has launched his own production, Mi Nah Laugh.

"Laughter is important and we will continue to try our best to contribute our little to the entertainment package. For example, check out Mi Nah Laugh presentation and production. I am not greedy, just want to survive and show others that professionalism can take us a far way. I want to see a day when all talented Jamaicans will be motivated to market themselves in such a way that it can benefit our families and Jamaica by extension," Gunter said.

charity event

The comedian can be heard on popular morning programme Full House Friday on Fame 95 FM. Gunter has also made cameos on Nationwide Radio's lunch-hour programme, substituting for Ity and Fancy Cat.

He has also performed at Best Care's 'Come Mek We Laugh', Ellis International's 'Comedy Cook Up' and the Shaggy and Friends charity event.

"I was given the opportunity to do a low-budget film with Good Vybes Entertainment, Kill Dem All and Done, a comedy-action movie, which has been getting mixed reviews because of my death in the movie," he laughed.

"You can check me out in their next movie, Bad Luck, also a short film. We have been doing some underground stuff and when the time is right the world will see the works, nothing is done before its time...YouTube Rohan Gunter," he said.

Gunter's next major performance will be at Pomedy, tonight at the University of Technology.

Rohan Gunter - File