Nelson Mandela University recently hosted a dynamic Women’s Month event, bringing public relations students together with industry leaders to explore “Women’s Empowerment in Digital PR.”
The event, held on 29 August 2024, offered students insights from trailblazing women who are redefining the digital PR landscape.
The event featured keynote speakers who are trailblazers in their respective fields, offering guidance and inspiration for the next generation of PR professionals.
Keynote Speakers:
- Noluxolo Gcaza: Founder of Cyberculture Foundation and Associate Professor at Nelson Mandela University, emphasized the importance of digital vigilance and responsible social media use. She shared her journey in combating cyberbullying through the Cyberculture Foundation, urging students to be mindful of their digital footprints.
- Cayla Stuthard: Senior Buyer & Brand Manager for Spec-Savers, a former PR student, shared her career journey and highlighted the seven pillars of success in public relations, including embracing innovation, cultivating relationships, and engaging in ethical storytelling.
- Nomfundo Khumalo-Zwane: Association Lecturer in Digital Animation, showcased the power of animation in storytelling, inspiring students to explore innovative ways of communicating brand messages.
The event opened with remarks from the Head of the Department, Dr. Janelle Vermaak-Griessel, who urged women in the corporate world to support one another in climbing the professional ladder. She encouraged students to draw inspiration from the speakers and use their insights to build successful careers in digital PR.
Throughout the day, attendees were treated to powerful insights, including the correlation between animation and memorable brand storytelling highlighted by Khumalo-Zwane, and Stuthard’s encouragement to “become the trendsetters” in the diverse PR field.
A guest poet added depth to the event with heartfelt poems addressing issues faced by women today, providing moments of reflection between the speaker sessions.
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, allowing students and media attendees to engage directly with the speakers, gaining valuable advice on navigating the challenges of being women in the corporate world.
“We are proud to have hosted this empowering event, which aimed to inspire and equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the digital PR industry,” said Dr. Vermaak-Griessel.
Thanks were extended to Dr Vuyelwa Jacobs, Ms Cindy Preller, and Dr. Vermaak-Griessel, who played key roles in organizing this impactful event.
Source: Nelson Mandela University
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