James Mussa
Johannesburg
Summary
Creative and dedicated multimedia professional with over 4 years of experience in graphic design, photography assistance, social media management, and visual content strategy. Known for delivering clean, impactful design and building strong digital presence for brands. Currently freelancing across various sectors while building my own streetwear brand, JVerse. Strong communicator, visual thinker, and brand builder, passionate about creating work that connects with people.
Innovative Social Media Manager with experience in developing and implementing comprehensive social media strategies. Noted for creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to enhance brand awareness through engaging content. Strengths include knowledge of major social media platforms, analytical skills, and understanding of SEO best practices. Previous work has resulted in improved online presence and audience engagement for diverse clients.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Freelance Social Media Manager & Graphic Designer
Joy Driving School
Johannesburg
05.2025 - Current
- Create branded visuals and short-form content for Instagram and Facebook
- Design monthly content calendars aligned with business goals
- Edit and deliver reels, posters, menus, and promo visuals
- Coordinate posting schedules, hashtags, and engagement
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive social media strategy to increase brand awareness and engagement.
- Created engaging content for multiple social media platforms, such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
- Monitored customer comments on various social media channels and responded in a timely manner.
- Developed and implemented successful social media campaigns to support company objectives.
Photographer Assistant & Photo Editor (Freelance)
Various Clients
Johannesburg
09.2021 - Current
- Support during photo shoots with lighting, setup, styling, and direction
- Retouch and edit images for fashion, events, and business clients
- Manage file storage, selection, and delivery processes
- Work with photographers on creative planning and post-production
- Compose creative shots from different angles that are visually appealing.
- Set up lighting equipment and adjust camera settings to capture desired images.
- Advise on appropriate poses, props, and backgrounds for each shot taken.
Social Media Manager
21 Bistro & Malleo Equipment
Johannesburg
07.2024 - 06.2025
- Led social strategy, developed content plans, and monitored analytics
- Designed all branded assets including templates, highlights, and flyers
- Increased audience engagement through consistent, brand-aligned content
- Collaborated with photographers and event teams for campaign visuals
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive social media strategy to increase brand awareness and engagement.
- Reviewed analytics data regularly to identify areas of improvement in our campaigns.
- Recommended changes in processes or procedures based on feedback from customers or colleagues.
- Analyzed data to measure the effectiveness of campaigns and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Maintained an up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies related to social media marketing.
- Created engaging content for multiple social media platforms, such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
- Designed promotional materials using graphic design software applications.
- Managed the daily operations of all assigned social media accounts.
- Monitored customer comments on various social media channels and responded in a timely manner.
Graphic Designer
Just Content
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Designed visuals for brand clients including social media, event posters, ads
- Worked on digital campaigns and launch strategies
- Supported video editors and photographers with creative assets
- Developed style guides and branding kits
Education
Technical Support NQF Level 4 - Technology Management
Progression-Transformation Leaders
Johannesburg 10-2023
Business Practice NQF Level 1 - Business
Progression- Transformation Leaders
Johannesburg 10-2021
High School Diploma -
Hoër Skool Primrose
Johannesburg 12-2020
Some College (No Degree) - Project Management NQF 4
Progression - Transformation Leaders
Johannesburg Skills
- Graphic Design (Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator)
- Social Media Strategy & Management (Meta Business Suite, Instagram, TikTok)
- Content Creation (Photography, Video Editing, Reels, Copywriting)
- Branding & Visual Identity
- Photography Assistance & Editing (Lightroom, Capture One, Photoshop)
- Project Management & Campaign Planning
- Digital Marketing Basics
- Social media strategy
- Content creation
- Graphic design
- Brand development
- Customer interaction
- Trend monitoring
- Visual storytelling
References
Available on request.
Leadership Experience
- Founder of JVerse streetwear brand, 2024 - Present
- Lead creative for social impact campaigns, youth, clean-up projects
- Mentored by Chris Buys, Raised in a church community
Languages
English
First Language
Timeline
Freelance Social Media Manager & Graphic Designer
Joy Driving School
05.2025 - Current
Social Media Manager
21 Bistro & Malleo Equipment
07.2024 - 06.2025
Photographer Assistant & Photo Editor (Freelance)
Various Clients
09.2021 - Current
Graphic Designer
Just Content
01.2021 - 01.2024
Technical Support NQF Level 4 - Technology Management
Progression-Transformation Leaders
Business Practice NQF Level 1 - Business
Progression- Transformation Leaders
High School Diploma -
Hoër Skool Primrose
Some College (No Degree) - Project Management NQF 4
Progression - Transformation Leaders