PERSPECTIVES

Stand tall and be proud

Having been in the media industry for more than 20 years, I have learned many lessons. When I think back to them now I can smile, as they all taught me valuable life lessons, even when they were hard to stomach!

Firstly, the biggest lesson I learned very early on in my media career was always to learn something new, no matter how small it might be. I don’t mean having to do courses or degrees, but find a person within your agency who is willing to teach you

Celia Collins

something new outside of your job title. Never limit yourself to your job title and never say “It’s not my job”. Welcome the work with open arms, ask as many questions as possible, and learn how, why and what. If you make a mistake, own it and learn from it. Secondly, see yourself as an equal in any boardroom, have your say, and make sure it is relevant and adds value to the overall equation. Equality is about being proud of what you are able to add to any job or situation, no matter how large or small it is.

Finally, learn to speak up. This was one of the hardest things for me, as I would sit in the background and not have a say, then expect my bosses to see the work I had done. Be proud and show your work off – this took me many years to master but it worked by understanding my clients’ and bosses’ personalities, and when and how to pitch to them.

I am a firm believer that life is what you make it and you have to drive your ambitions yourself. No one will help you, so stand tall and be proud!

Celia Collins is general manager of the Omnicom Media Group.

Choose happiness

Ihave been in the media industry for about 26 years, and in a senior leadership role for at least half that

time. I am currently the CEO of DStv Media Sales, a challenging but also gratifying job.

I often get asked about the secret sauce. These are just some lessons that I have learned on my journey.

BE A RISK TAKER

Don’t be afraid to try something new. Taking risks also showcases your confidence levels, which is especially important for women because the barriers to entry in top positions are much higher. Develop that self-belief that you can achieve anything. It takes courage and persistence to get this right. When evaluating situations, always just ask: “What’s the worst that could happen?”

Fahmeeda Cassim-Surtee DON’T WORK FOR NASTY PEOPLE

It is important that you work for someone who becomes a mentor, who has your best interests at heart. Mentors will advocate for your success. If you don’t feel this way, leave. INVEST IN YOURSELF

Look out for your well-being. Take intentional steps to improve yourself physically, mentally and emotionally. If you create goals around this you can be the best version of yourself. Run that race, take that holiday, book that massage, take that course – it’s worth it.

BE AN OPTIMIST

I believe you can choose happiness and see the best in every situation. We all face challenging situations on a daily basis; how we respond is all that matters. Optimistic people are just nicer people. They are also magnets for great opportunities.

Fahmeeda Cassim-Surtee is CEO of DStv Media Sales.