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When her BSc Honours degree in Palaeontology proved too technical for employment, Nothemba Belle began working in promotions part-time. From face-to-face to online, from being a ticket seller for Howler to working on different alcohol and tobacco promotions… she discovered she had a talent for the industry.
(Photo courtesy) Nothemba Belle is a junior strategist at VML
She also participated in online activities of the “Nano Army” on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), which sparked her curiosity and fascination with the strategic thinking behind these activities.
To further explore this passion, she co-founded the digital marketing firm Simelle Creatives.
“It helped me gain first-hand experience in various aspects of digital marketing, from building a digital presence for a small business to influencer management for different agencies,” she said.
She also actively sought opportunities to gain more experience in the creative industries. This led her to a position in the VML Catalyst programme.
“It allowed me to delve deeper into the strategic planning side of the industry and solidified my desire to pursue a creative career as a strategist,” said Bell, who was recently promoted to junior strategist at the agency.
The 26-year-old, who has been working at VML for a year, said it is a challenge but she enjoys it.
What is something unique/different that you bring to the table as a young person?
My diverse background spans scientific research and business analysis, honing my problem-solving and data analysis skills.
I am a networker and I feel that with my skills I can help facilitate collaboration. I also think that as a young person I was not shy about achieving what I wanted, which I believe will benefit me in the future.
What was the most difficult learning process for you?
The biggest challenge proved to be exposure to the industry itself as I didn’t know much about it. The industry itself is very fast paced and sometimes deadlines seem impossible to meet unless you meet them.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
As I said above, I didn’t know much about this industry, but I didn’t let that hold me back. Instead, I was willing to give it my all and do the best I could. This is my advice to other young people who want to work in this industry: Go for it, you have nothing to lose, just work hard.
Why is this industry a good place for young people and what opportunities does it offer?
This industry is fun and you learn a lot about yourself because of the stress of the industry. It pushes you to give it your all. It’s also an industry where you can learn valuable skills.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
My recent promotion was part of many small affirmations that showed me that I was in the right industry and that I was not bad at what I was doing.
In ten years I will be 37 years old and I hope that by then I can be a senior strategist and even work abroad and provide consulting services to different institutions and companies.
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