Don't listen to us, hear it from the UJ Marketing graduates!
Anele Sikakana
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Entrepreneur and Mrs SA Finalist
”Securing my honours degree in marketing has had a profound impact on my career. The extensive knowledge and practical skills I acquired during my studies have empowered me to thrive both as an entrepreneur and in the diverse marketing positions I have held. From formulating effective marketing strategies to analysing consumer behaviour and trends, my degree has armed me with tools to make data-driven, consumer-centric decisions that foster business growth. Additionally, it has unlocked numerous doors to exciting personal and professional opportunities, instilling in me the confidence to assume leadership roles and make significant contributions to my organisation’s success. I am truly grateful for the expertise I obtained during my honours and subsequent master’s studies in marketing at the University of Johannesburg.”
Megan Moore
Retail Category Manager: Personal & Fabric Care
“Qualifying with an Honours Degree from a prestigious University such as UJ certainly provided many opportunities for me as an individual entering the working world. The skills provided in developing sound analytics to make data-driven decisions across different marketing facets truly aided my transition to the working world. One of the most memorable elements of the Honours Programme was the industry exposure our lecturers organised for us – be it guest speakers or the opportunity to present our projects to organisations that provided a project brief. One such organisation was Colgate-Palmolive leading me to pick my first position as a graduate in the Colgate Internship programme.
The knowledge of the UJ Marketing Department is vast and always entrenched with research – but what truly sets it apart is the structure of multiple group projects to address hands-on industry assignments, that enhances practical applications, closing the academic-to-industry gap. A truly differentiating factor in a highly competitive job market.”
Miguel Martins
Customer Development Manager – Shoprite/Checkers, National Ok Foods, and Shoprite Wholesale
“The programme opened doors for me to engage with industry leaders and experts, allowing me to gain firsthand insights into real world challenges and trends. These interactions allowed me to gain networking opportunities while broadening my perspective on various industries and their dynamics.
Overall, my BCom Marketing Honours journey has equipped me with a robust foundation for navigating the complexities of the business world, fostering a holistic and strategic outlook that continues to benefit me in my career.”
Patrick Mahlangu
Founder of Lerato Agency and Pat on Brands, and Social Media Manager at the Brave Group
“I hold a BCom (Hons) in Marketing Management and MCom in Business Management with specialisation in Marketing degrees. Obtaining the Mcom unlocked so many opportunities for me and allowed me to dab into both the academic and corporate fields.”
Rebecca Mosoma
Category Account Manager
”The start of my success story emerged at the University of Johannesburg. A journey I am tremendously proud to share with the world because, for me, this was the standard-setter, the game-changer, the difference maker! It all began in 2014 when Professor Danial Maduku summoned me to his office to discuss my semester test results. He said, regretfully “it is heart-rending to watch a talented student operate beneath their capabilities. I am saying this because the manner in which you articulate yourself and apply your logic in class does not translate into your examination results”. At this instant, this brief interaction with someone who believed in me a little more than I did in myself, changed me, and it changed my path forever!
Today, Rebecca Masoma is known as an enthusiastic, self-starter with numerous awards in both industry and the academic space. In 2015 I was awarded Top Student, obtained 6 distinctions for my BCom Honours qualification, the highest marks for my empirical research dissertation (Highest in the history of the marketing department). This automatically gained me an entry into the research methodology Honours poster competition, where I won third prize. Lastly. I was part of the winning team of the Colgate Honours 2016 challenge.
My drive to operate at full capacity accelerated my professional career as well. Advancing from Graduate Trainee to CCSD Executive and recently promoted to Category Account Manager within a space of 5 years. In addition to my promotions, I received an award as one of the youngest top talents in the organisation. Furthermore, I led a special project which was identified as “Best in Class” by the Business transformation team in NESTLÉ Zone AOA (Africa, Oceania, and Asia) region.
In the 5 years that I have been in the industry, with all my accolades. I know for sure that NO other institution could have prepared me for the rigorous corporate environment. The Marketing Management Course from the University of Johannesburg set me apart from other graduates, it broadened my commercial understanding, my ability to operate in fast-paced environments, and to apply myself pragmatically. These are integral skills required in the dynamic business environment we operate in today. Above all things, the mentorships of the lecturers at the institution made a world of difference. I believe we are all twinkly stars and sometimes the driving force to our success is seeing ourselves through the lenses of those who believe in us.”
Dawn Isdale
Country Leader/Director & Regional Channel Manager
I regard my journey from the University of Johannesburg to a pivotal role at 3M South Africa as not just a testament to my abilities, but also as an inspiring narrative for the UJ alumni community.
I’ve completed qualifications with various institutions: I was awarded my Bachelor of Business Administration in 2003, and then did a BCom Honours, followed by a one-year Programme for Management Development in 2010. This was followed by a Master’s degree in Business Management through UJ, with a specialisation in marketing. My dissertation, completed in 2016, was titled “Factors influencing the firm’s adoption of green marketing strategies: A marketer’s perspective”.
I joined 3M South Africa as a marketing manager in the industrial business in 2003, and then moved to the commercial graphics business as a sales and marketing manager, where I had the pleasure of working on all the activations and branding for the 2010 FIFA football world cup.
I am now the country leader/director at 3M SA, and the regional channel manager. My approach to leadership is grounded in a deep understanding of both global trends and local market dynamics. Under my guidance, 3M SA has not only expanded its footprint but has also enhanced its reputation as a leading technological innovator.
We hope to collaborate with UJ on future digital marketing programmes.
Lesego Mothwa
Assistant Store Manager
“I completed the Advanced Diploma in Retailing in 2018. Completing this qualification prepared me to be ready for the outside world. I believe I have acquired very valuable knowledge that could be of great use once I start working. I am currently enrolled in the BCom Honours in Marketing Management at UJ.”
More quotes from our Graduates
“The UJ Honours course and lecturers are world-class…” – Divan Botha (Television presenter: KykNet(Winslyn) and owner of The Whippet)
“The honours degree prepared me to work well in a team within the workplace.” – Deidre Dekker (Marketing and Promotions Coordinator at Rooi Rose)
“The value added by doing an Honors degree at UJ to that of other institutions is far superior.” – Karel Viviers (Trade Executive at Reckitt Benckiser)
“The one-on-one attention received from my lecturers while completing my Masters degree is unrivalled. Their every endeavour and unwavering commitment to my personal development ultimately contributes to driving my success.” – Candice Burin (Marketing Specialist at the Kelly Group)
“The PhD degree distinguishes you from other graduates and develops your research skills and writing skills. My promotor’s contributed extensively to my personal development.” – Dr Bennie Fourie (Associate at Blue Platinum Consulting)