Sphiwesihle Malinga, affectionately known as “Sihle” to her colleagues, may have only recently joined PRISA, but her journey in the world of public relations has been fuelled by passion and dedication. Drawn to PR because of her love for storytelling and connecting with people, Sihle has quickly embraced the dynamic nature of her role. “I realised early on that PR is all about building bridges between organisations and the public, creating positive images, and managing messages,” she shares.
From the classroom to the PRISA Team
Sihle’s journey to PRISA began during her studies, where her lecturers – many of whom were PRISA members – encouraged her to pursue high grades for a chance at a practical placement with the organisation.
Their advice paid off, and in April 2024, Sihle joined PRISA as a practical student. Just a few months later, she transitioned to the role of Office Administrator, a position that keeps her at the heart of PRISA’s daily operations.
Her favourite part of the job? The variety. “Each day brings new challenges, whether it’s administrative tasks or assisting with ongoing projects,” she explains. “I enjoy being part of a team and seeing how our efforts contribute to PRISA’s goals.”
Celebrating women in Leadership
One of Sihle’s most meaningful experiences at PRISA was supporting the “Women in Power” event in August. “I learned so much about event planning and teamwork,” she says. Despite a few hiccups, seeing the event come together left her with a deep sense of accomplishment and pride.
A forward-thinking vision for PR
For Sihle, PRISA plays an essential role in setting ethical standards and supporting the industry’s growth. She sees the rise of digital transformation as both a challenge and an opportunity for PR. “Embracing new technologies allows us to connect with diverse audiences, but maintaining authentic communication is key,” she notes. Sihle envisions PRISA expanding its influence and becoming an even stronger support system for PR professionals across South Africa.
Fun facts about Sihle
Outside of work, Sihle’s creative side shines through in her passion for natural haircare content. “I love sharing tips, tutorials, and my own journey with others,” she reveals. She also has a taste for adventure when it comes to food, enjoying visits to trendy restaurants to explore new cuisines and cultures.
Advice for aspiring PR Pros
Sihle’s advice to newcomers is to stay curious and open to learning. “The PR industry is always evolving, and the most successful people are those who keep up with trends and continuously seek improvement,” she says. Networking and collaboration, she adds, are essential to building a successful career.
Though she may be new to PRISA, Sphiwesihle Malinga’s enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment to growth make her a valued member of the team, helping PRISA remain an influential force in the PR industry.