Nande Mbekela
Western Cape, Cape Town, 7784
Summary
Results-driven and organized communication and public relations professional with a passion for serving the public interest. Expertise in strategic communication, media relations, and content creation to contribute to organizational development. Excels in maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including the media, across diverse industries. Solid background in radio production, public relations, marketing, and multimedia journalism. Demonstrated ability to thrive in dynamic environments and contribute to the success of marketing campaigns.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Communications intern
Institute of Justice and Reconciliation
09.2023 - Current
- Managed social media accounts, enhancing audience engagement and expanding follower base through strategic initiatives.
- Managed various types of multimedia content creation including videos, infographics, and reports.
- Informed communication strategies through media monitoring and analysis, gauging public sentiment.
- Developed and executed communication strategies to effectively convey departmental messages to internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborated on the development and distribution of press releases as well as media advisories.
- Participated in the review and proofreading process to guarantee accurate and consistent content.
- Engaged in productive brainstorming meetings geared towards the improvement of TTCs by exploring new avenues for branding, advertisements, and marketing.
- Collaborated with colleagues to identify and communicate regular updates, increase project awareness, and promote new business opportunities.
- Developed engaging written and visual material to bolster organizational reputation and impact.
Communications Assistant
Rhodes Music Radio
05.2020 - 11.2023
- Successfully implemented promotions and advertising plans for a range of shows and events.
- Supported marketing, communication, and stakeholder engagement activities for the Station.
- Enhanced the station's brand image through creation of captivating content.
- Collaborated cross-functionally for cohesive communication efforts.
- Conduct regular audits of all digital platforms to identify areas for improvement.
- Provided administrative support to show presenters.
- Created and produced show content while constantly analyzing trends and traffic for ongoing enhancements.
Social Media Marketing Assistant and Presenter
Cue Media
07.2022 - 08.2023
- Used applications to plan and schedule social media posts during peak hours and heavy traffic to attract more prospects and increase sales.
- Engaged in interactive and productive dialogues with both listeners and guests.
- Created video content, infographics and drafted compelling copy to enhance traffic and leads through fresh and visual content.
- Analyzed metrics to stay updated on industry trends and apply best practices for maintaining high social media quality standards.
- Generated creative concepts for podcast episodes in collaboration with producers and writing team.
- Successfully completed editing and production of podcast episodes.
Freelance Multimedia Journalist
Self Employed
03.2022 - 02.2024
- Independently created and delivered multimedia content for various clients
- Conducted interviews, wrote articles, and produced engaging visuals.
- Crafted articles that emphasized quality and aligned with brand objectives, showcasing organizational values to the audience.
- Independently developed and pursued a variety of stories across different subjects.
Tutor
School of Journalism and Media Studies Rhodes Uni.
07.2023 - 11.2023
- Provided customized coaching to assist students in achieving curriculum targets.
- Collaborated with students at all skill levels to develop stronger communication and marketing abilities within the field of audio Journalism.
- Delivered tutoring services following the department's policies.
- Enhanced understanding of Adobe Audition, Audacity, and Canva by facilitating hands-on learning experiences.
- Promoted critical thinking skills through engaging activities and consistent reinforcement of complex concepts.
President
Enactus Rhodes University
12.2022 - 11.2023
- Built a strong profile for Enactus Rhodes through identifying, developing, and implementing strategic opportunities and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders and sponsors.
- Oversaw operations and performance for a team consisting of 30 individuals.
- Effectively increased efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability through the management of team productivity, costs, and budgets.
- Proofread monthly reports and business agreements to identify loopholes and safeguard the organization.
- Building and maintaining lasting strategic relationships with partners, brands, and the Business Advisory Board.
- Achieved a remarkable 70% growth in both membership and revenue for the year 2022/2023.
- Served as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and promoting good relations.
- Collaborated with diverse brands such as Harmony, MTN, Ford Motor Company Fund, and various Makhanda businesses.
Education
Bachelor of Journalism -
Rhodes University
2023
High School -
Chris Hani Arts and Culture High School
2019
Skills
- Media Relations
- Graphic design
- Data Analysis
- Optimizing digital assets
- Managing communications channels
- Calendar Management
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Social Media Coordination
- Technical knowledge
- Excellent verbal, written and listening communication
- Crisis communication management and planning
- Website Maintenance
Certification
- 100 hours of community service, Enactus Rhodes
- Best Creative Production, certified:Rhodes Music Radio
Timeline
Communications intern
Institute of Justice and Reconciliation
09.2023 - Current
Tutor
School of Journalism and Media Studies Rhodes Uni.
07.2023 - 11.2023
President
Enactus Rhodes University
12.2022 - 11.2023
Social Media Marketing Assistant and Presenter
Cue Media
07.2022 - 08.2023
Freelance Multimedia Journalist
Self Employed
03.2022 - 02.2024
Communications Assistant
Rhodes Music Radio
05.2020 - 11.2023
Bachelor of Journalism -
Rhodes University
High School -
Chris Hani Arts and Culture High School
- 100 hours of community service, Enactus Rhodes
- Best Creative Production, certified:Rhodes Music Radio
Similar Profiles
Kaltumo IbrahimKaltumo Ibrahim
Social Media Marketing Manager at The Institute for Equity and JusticeSocial Media Marketing Manager at The Institute for Equity and Justice
Leah YerardiLeah Yerardi
Grants and Contracts Billing Specialist at Justice Resource InstituteGrants and Contracts Billing Specialist at Justice Resource Institute
Suzi KatzSuzi Katz
Director of Special Programs and Events at Institute for Sport & Social JusticeDirector of Special Programs and Events at Institute for Sport & Social Justice