by Thembe Khumalo

We’ve probably transcended the “Africa is not a country” conversation by now. At least I hope we have. We now know that each country and region in Africa is rich with unique languages, symbols, and traditions, which form the foundation of effective PR campaigns. When communicating across the diverse cultural landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa therefore, it's essential to recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach will not resonate.

by Thembe Khumalo

Over the past seven years, we've loved working with nonprofits across various critical impact areas; from human rights and gender equality to environmental and civil protection. One thing we've consistently noticed is that while these organisations are passionate and dedicated, many don't fully grasp the transformative power of a well-crafted brand strategy. The truth is strategic branding and communication aren't just for commercial businesses — they're vital tools that can amplify a nonprofit's impact and help fulfill its mission more effectively.

by Thembe Khumalo

When Apple launched its legendary "Think Different" campaign, it didn’t just promote a product—it showcased a mindset that has defined the company’s success for decades. This campaign, with its bold celebration of creativity and innovation, exemplifies the power of innovative thinking and how being willing to step outside the box can result in high-value ideas. By daring to think differently, Apple not only redefined its brand but also set the stage for transformative growth that would shape the tech industry for years to come.

by Thembe Khumalo

Starting and running a business is no small feat. It requires more than just passion; it demands a strategic approach, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Let’s delve into some essential strategies that will help you handle your business like a pro.

by Thembe Khumalo

Fear of public speaking is said to be more terrifying than death for many. I grew up as a very shy child, but once I entered the competitive word of work, I quickly realised that shyness was a luxury I couldn't afford. Especially as an entrepreneur, and particularly in the knowledge economy, stepping into the spotlight is non-negotiable. So how you can overcome your fear of visibility and showcase your expertise with confidence?

by Thembe Khumalo

Having a strategy in place is crucial for directing your sales efforts effectively. Many business owners feel like they are "talking into the abyss" because their efforts are scattered, inconsistent, and ultimately ineffective. A cohesive plan transforms random activities into a focused approach that drives results. It's akin to building a house—you need a blueprint to ensure everything comes together seamlessly.

by Thembe Khumalo

Sometimes when you’ve taken a big leap, you are so conscious of the magnitude of what you’ve done that you don't think you can or should take any more major steps. That was me after leaving home at 22 years old - I was so determined to make my life work and validate the choices I had made, that I found it difficult to think beyond my immediate activities. This kind of paralysis can also hit entrepreneurs in the early stages of building their business, particularly when a huge risk has been taken to get to the start-up stage.

by Thembe Khumalo

Here's something I've noticed over the years coaching men and women in various professions: Women consistently identify themselves as having low confidence and seek support in building it up. I've never had a man raise a lack of confidence as a primary concern.

by Thembe Khumalo

At a recent meeting with entrepreneurs, I was asked about overcoming imposter syndrome. No one liked it when I responded by asking, “Are you an imposter?” This is an uncomfortable question, particularly when you are regularly questioning your abilities, feeling insecure, and struggling to feel confident in a particular role or task. For you to be able to respond with a firm “No,” to such a question you need to be sure that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills for the work you are proposing to do. And that was my point in asking the question.

by Thembe Khumalo

Were you struggling to attract sign-ups for your coaching or consulting services last year? Did you find potential clients hesitating due to pricing concerns? You're not alone in this challenge. What you truly desire is a steady stream of eager leads and clients who appreciate the value you bring.  And that’s what you need to set yourself up to attract this year. Here are some ways you may have been sabotaging your success without realizing it.

by Thembe Khumalo

Are you tired of taking every job that comes your way, offering discounts, and working on assignments you're not specialized in? It's time to break free from the scarcity mindset, stop working ridiculous hours, and dealing with abusive clients. Let's dive into why this approach doesn't work.

by Thembe Khumalo

Look, I realise how frightening it can be to step forward into a fast-moving marketplace that can sometimes also. be very confusing. But if you’re serious about professional growth and business expansion you’re going to have to overcome fears of being seen, making marketing mistakes, facing judgment, or stumbling in your pursuits. These apprehensions will rob you of your confidence and the elevation you desire. Try to make peace with the fact that you will make mistakes — everybody does after all, and then focus on building yourself a well-defined personal brand.

by Thembe Khumalo

Let’s face it, there are a whole lot of coaches consultants, and other service-based solopreneurs out there who are working for a lot less than what they are worth. Sometimes, it's because you hear so much about how bad the economy is that you try to avoid coming across as lacking empathy, or worse still, arrogant. Years spent in traditional employment can also limit our self-worth because we have pegged our value at whatever our last employer decided it should be. This undervaluation can lead to reluctance and hesitancy to share knowledge, and the pursuit of side hustles.

by Thembe Khumalo

As we prepare to say “Sala kahle” to another year, it's the perfect time for coaches and consultants to engage in some much-needed reflection. The year 2023 has presented its unique set of challenges and opportunities, and evaluating your progress is crucial to paving the way for a successful 2024. So, let's see how we can go about doing a quick self-assessment and planning, without losing out on all the Dezemba festivities.

by Thembe Khumalo

As coaches and consultants, our ability to identify and address obstacles effectively is a crucial part of the work we do. Whether it's helping clients overcome their challenges or managing our own coaching and consulting practice, understanding the difference between challenges and excuses is vital. Here are some indicators of whether you are dealing with a challenge or an excuse…

by Thembe Khumalo

The holiday season is almost upon us, and as you’re heading out to your next Christmas cocktail party, think about how this is the perfect time to infuse some festive flair into your client relationships. To be honest, you may even be a little late in using this golden opportunity to strengthen your professional bonds and make a lasting impression. So, grab your Santa hat, pour yourself something sparkling, and let's explore how to network with a festive twist!

by Thembe Khumalo

When you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, about working in the digital economy, about monetizing your knowledge, and you want to show other people that they don’t need to be afraid, it can be very tempting to present the whole endeavor as something that’s easy and fun and exciting. Well, it is all those things. But, like any worthwhile pursuit, it does have its dark moments — and in 2018, I had two of them.

by Thembe Khumalo

“We need to get more like-minded people together. Lets put together a group of other people like ourselves, and we can really make an impact.” Unfortunately the last time I had a conversation like this will not be the last time I will have this conversation; and the problem is, I have a problem with this kind of thinking.

by Thembe Khumalo

In the world of entrepreneurship, there is no place to hide. Where the corporate world might have allowed you the cover of a jacket and tie, a shiny pair of shoes, and an impressive title, entrepreneurship strips you naked, and leaves you with nothing but yourself and your wits — or whatever it is that you bring to the table.

by Thembe Khumalo

Maya Angelou says that courage is the most important of all the virtues, because “without courage you can’t practice any other virtue consistently. You can practice any virtue erratically, but nothing consistently without courage.” Of all the virtues required in our nation at this time, courage is probably the one we need the most, and not just courage but consistent courage. Here are my thoughts on how we might begin to find our courage:

by Thembe Khumalo

It is a beautiful thing when a personal brand lives out its own manifesto. It fills me with awe and wonder to watch someone else unleash the full force of their fabulosity on the world. In case you’re wondering, yes fabulosity is a real word, made famous by fashion mogul Kimora Lee Simmons.

by Thembe Khumalo

We keep hearing that social media has become a vibrant and influential landscape for getting ahead in your career — some are even calling it a necessary evil. However, many executives remain hesitant to participate, unsure of the “correct” way to navigate it, and even of the value it holds for them. I like to think of social media as one big global cocktail party, where everyone is invited, but attendance is optional. By understanding how the party unfolds, and what different people are doing at the party, you can align your goals with purposeful engagement and unlock the immense potential of social media to support your career and personal goals.

by Thembe Khumalo

The truth is, being good at what you do is just the beginning — it’s like the minimum entry requirement. Many talented individuals like yourself often find themselves wondering why they aren’t getting the opportunities they truly desire, despite their skills and expertise. The answer lies in the importance of personal branding. Here’s why this might be happening and what you can do to unlock the opportunities you deserve.

by Thembe Khumalo

In Africa, we talk a lot about the unbanked. In certain circles, this group is considered evidence of the opportunities for innovation that abound on the continent, and in others, they are considered a problem that we need to solve. What interests me most though, is looking at some of the reasons why these people are not choosing banks as their preferred financial partner.

by Thembe Khumalo

“Who me?” You might ask. Yes, you!

You’re stealing the future from the next generation of young women professionals by refusing to make yourself visible. Here’s the thing — you can’t be what you don’t see. So if we want our young women to become leaders in business, in entrepreneurship, in politics, or in the community, we need to give them the opportunity to see such people in action — people like you and me. We need to provide them with visible, accessible role models.

by Thembe Khumalo

“When women come together with a collective intention, magic happens. We shape our world, we make things happen. That’s what I believe in.” — Graca Machel

We hear often enough about how lonely it can be at the top, but what we don't hear as often is what one should do when one gets there, and finds so many other things to think about. In the realm of leadership, African women are rising to the forefront, breaking barriers, and reshaping the narrative. While they possess inherent strength, resilience, and an unwavering determination to make a difference, African women leaders face unique challenges and obstacles. This is why it’s useful to be part of a community of women in similar positions.

by Thembe Khumalo

Are we still debating the importance of building your brand in a fast-paced and interconnected world? Didn’t think so! It’s an essential tool for African leaders looking to stand out, make an impact, and unlock new opportunities. One more time, for those who are new here — your personal brand is how you show up in the world; how you present yourself, your values, and your unique attributes to those you wish to influence. Now for the how-to: here are some step-by-step strategies you can leverage to build a strong personal brand.

by Thembe Khumalo

For ambitious executives, personal branding is like the stock exchange. Some stocks are valued higher than others, and the goal of every owner/investor is to see the price of his shares go up and stay up. Highly valued stocks mean more money and a better return on investment.

by Thembe Khumalo

I’m hoping we are now over the initial “New Year Resolution Madness” where we pledge to do great and mighty exploits, only to find ourselves fading before the first month of the year is out. I’m not proposing any new resolutions to take up, just some ideas about what you could do differently (and why) to level up your business and your career this year.

by Thembe Khumalo

I am a person who likes to start things - conversations (if I hear anyone in the supermarket speaking Ndebele I feel compelled to join in), friendships, projects, songs, businesses, stories…. I just love the energy that comes with new beginnings. The planning and preparations, putting tools, and people and ideas together, all give me a high that is unlike anything else I have experienced. And so of course, I tend to start a lot of things.