Name: Zizipho Dilika
Company: ZEE Communications
Contact Number: 073 818 3039
Email: zeecomms@gmail.com
Website: www.zeecomms.co.za
Social Media: https://m.facebook.com/p/ZEE-Communications-100069263577082/
When Zizipho Dilika, 25, couldn't find employment after graduating from university, she decided to create her own opportunities.
With nothing but her knowledge and a healthy dose of determination, she founded ZEE Communications, a marketing and public relations company.
The East London-based Walter Sisulu University graduate studied for a diploma in public relations in 2020 and graduated with an advanced diploma in PR management in 2023.
"Securing a job after graduation is a major milestone for any individual and it is one that often determines the trajectory of one's career path," she said.
The entrepreneur said her attempts to find a job at the time did not bear fruit.
"Unfortunately, in today's job market, it is not uncommon to look 12 to 18 months, or even longer, for a job.
"I then decided to start my own business using funds I had saved up while at university," she said, adding that she was determined to put 100% effort into making her business a success.
In starting her own company, the young entrepreneur said she has taken it step-by-step.
"It is essential to start with small and manageable steps. For instance, I started by identifying my interests and seeking guidance."
Dilika said: "Selecting an entrepreneurial career requires honesty, reflection and a tendency to be action-orientated. You will need to recognise your own strengths, limitations and commitment as part of that honesty.
"Reflection is required for selfgrowth — one has to constantly seek to improve one's skill set; while commitment is required to maintain a high level of consistency in one's willingness to make the new venture a top priority."
Dilika explained that her company assisted businesses in enhancing their branding and marketing objectives, helping communicate effectively for improved business operations.
"We offer a wide range of services including graphic design, web development and social media management."
Even though her company is online, she said her services were not limited by her location.
To build her own brand she said she had to identify factors that could make her dream of becoming a successful businesswoman come true.
"I identified my business strategy, target customers and their needs, my competition, brand positioning and messaging. Most of the skills I used to build my brand I learnt in school."
She said the journey of becoming a businessman was exciting but also scary because of the challenges that came with it.
Hers included strict deadlines, having people rescheduling appointments at the last minute and co-ordinating with clients.
"Entrepreneurship is an exciting journey filled with challenges and opportunities, and having a mentor to guide you along the way makes a difference," she said.
"I get mentorship from the Small Business Development Centre and I also get support from my family."
