PR guru speaks on the business of public relations

Ditshego Media, a public relations agency headquartered in South Africa, is making waves as it expands into the Rwandan market, showcasing a vision of growth and innovation in the industry. Tebogo Ditshego, the CEO of Ditshego Media, recently sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the journey of his firm and shed light on the business of public relations. With a dynamic approach to integrating young people into positions of influence and a commitment to developing the profession of public relations in Africa, Ditshego embodies a new wave of entrepreneurial spirit on the continent. The Youth Connect Summit held in Rwanda provided a platform for engaging discussions on the role of young leaders in government. Ditshego, a key speaker at the summit, emphasized the importance of not only having young people in politics but also ensuring they have decision-making powers. He highlighted the need for qualitative representation rather than just focusing on quantitative numbers. Through his own experiences as a young entrepreneur, Ditshego has prioritized the inclusion of young talent within his company, fueling innovation and growth. Reflecting on his early struggles, Ditshego revealed that the journey to success was not a smooth one. Starting with limited resources and facing setbacks, he persevered by adopting a tailor-made approach to marketing and business development. His commitment to innovation and strategic thinking propelled Ditshego Media to achieve a remarkable 300% growth from 2013 to 2014, earning recognition from prestigious platforms like Forbes magazine. The firm's impactful work in areas such as the Readabook essay further solidified its position as a trailblazer in the industry. Addressing the perception of the PR business being unsustainable, Ditshego underlined the importance of industry development and professional standards. As a board member of the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa, he is dedicated to enhancing the profession and fostering a culture of excellence within the field. In regions where the PR industry is still nascent, Ditshego sees an opportunity to contribute to its growth by introducing best practices and innovative strategies. With the expansion into the Rwandan market, Ditshego Media is set to make a significant impact. The company's investment will involve establishing an office in Rwanda and recruiting local talent to ensure a deep understanding of the market and culture. By blending industry expertise from South Africa with indigenous insights from Rwanda, Ditshego aims to create a synergy that drives success. The focus on industry-specific investment and long-term development underscores Ditshego Media's commitment to sustainable growth and lasting partnerships. As Tebogo Ditshego charts a course for expansion and excellence in the public relations landscape, his innovative approach and strategic vision position Ditshego Media as a transformative force in the industry. With a blend of passion, perseverance, and a dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders, Ditshego exemplifies the spirit of African entrepreneurship at its best.