#BehindtheSelfie: Pabalelo Serepo, senior media relations specialist at Ogilvy SA

Pabalelo Serepo is a senior media relations specialist. Source: Supplied.

Tell me about yourself

Professionally, I am a seasoned communication specialist with over five years of experience in the industry. Currently, I hold the position of senior media relations specialist at the renowned firm, Ogilvy South Africa. My primary focus lies in B2B communications, and I have successfully worked across diverse sectors including energy, logistics, law, telecommunications, healthcare and more.

On a personal note, I am a naturally curious individual who enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and staying informed about current events. I also try prioritise maintaining a healthy lifestyle, enjoy going on breakfast dates, and spending quality time with my family and friends.

 What is IN and what is OUT for 2024?

IN

• Embracing Fear: Committing to staying true to myself, taking bold risks, and pursuing opportunities that challenge me.
• Lifelong Learning: Continuously expanding my knowledge, particularly in the realm of AI and other innovations that influence our industry, with the aim of leveraging them to our advantage as communication professionals.
• Cultivating Awareness and Critical Thinking: Staying informed about news across various sectors and approaching information with a discerning and critical mindset.'
• Promoting Civic Engagement: Advocating for active participation in the South African national elections this year, encouraging everyone to exercise their right to vote.

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OUT

• Being Debilitated by Fear: Resisting the paralysis of fear and self-doubt to pursue the things I truly desire
• Combatting Misinformation: Adopting a critical approach to information consumption by questioning and scrutinising what I read and hear, especially from non-credible sources.
• Neglecting Self-Care and Wellness: Avoiding excuses and making a conscious effort to prioritise my well-being and self-care this year.

Biggest lesson of 2023?

Change is inevitable and that God restores.

Describe yourself in one word

Loyal.

What are you listening/reading/watching?

Listening: Currently enjoying the Diary of a CEO podcast by Steven Bartlett, the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast and Kelvin Momo's latest album, Kurhula.

Reading: Engaged in Steven Bartlett's The Diary of a CEO and exploring 37 Laws of Business and Life, along with Joel Osteen's uplifting book, All Good Things Are Working for Your Good.

Watching: Recently completed the final seasons of Scandal and Suits.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

Initially, I aspired to be a fashion designer, interior designer, or events coordinator. But, as I matured, my passion shifted towards people, and in my matric year, receiving a human relations pupil award at my high school solidified my commitment to my current career path.

Who inspires you?

I draw inspiration from a diverse range of individuals and experiences in my day-to- day life, which include:

• Observing uMama on the side of the road, selling fruits and vegetables, and uTata hustling to make ends meet, showcasing dedication to providing for their families.
• Admiring figures like Steve Biko, who spearheaded the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa, leaving behind a legacy, and Muhammad Gaddafi, who fought for a united Africa with a singular voice and currency.
• Recognising the achievements of emerging women entrepreneurs such as Nomndeni Mdaki, Sinovuyo Mudliwa and Mathebe Molise, who built successful black-owned businesses from the ground up.

 Any advice for newbies in the industry?

• Stay focused by keeping your head down, blocking out the noise, and consistently putting in the effort.
• Maintain curiosity about your work, the people you work with, your company, and the world around you.
• Always strive to present your best self, and don't hesitate to seek guidance when necessary; no one is expected to know everything when entering the industry.
• Discover ways to contribute value to both the organisation and the individuals you collaborate with.
• Develop a well-defined vision and plan for navigating your career in the short, medium, and long term—otherwise, others may dictate your path for.