She Leads Africa

What Zainab Balogun taught us about branding and working for free

On January 14 we got the chance to connect with Motherland Mogul Zainab Balogun to learn more about building a career in the media and entertainment industry. Click here to see the full recap if you missed the chat. Zainab is a media professional, TV presenter, producer, budding actress and media entrepreneur. She is currently a presenter for the daily entertainment news show EL Now and original talk show called The Spot on EbonyLife TV. She also appears as a presenter and associate producer on Jumia TV, a teleshopping show. In addition to her presenting responsibilities she is a brand ambassador for Dark and Lovely international hair company. We learned 5 critical things from our chat with Zainab that budding media starlets, early career professionals and brand new entrepreneurs alike can learn from: 1. Maintain healthy contacts and keep people updated on your progress – that’s how you find out about new opportunities #SLAChats — She Leads Africa (@SheLeadsAfrica) January 14, 2016 2. Sometimes you have to work for free to get your foot in the door. Money shouldn’t be the only option you consider #SLAChats — She Leads Africa (@SheLeadsAfrica) January 14, 2016 3. Think about how you can build your own opportunities and content while you pursue opportunities with bigger brands #SLAChats — She Leads Africa (@SheLeadsAfrica) January 14, 2016 4. Having a strong work ethic can help bring mentors and teachers to you to help you grow #SLAChats — She Leads Africa (@SheLeadsAfrica) January 14, 2016 5. Stay consistent with your brand. Even when things are challenging, that will always be your calling card #SLAChats — She Leads Africa (@SheLeadsAfrica) January 14, 2016 Special bonus! Zainab shared the best piece of advice she received when first starting out in her career. @SheLeadsAfrica “Honour your brand” You’ll get tempted by the status quo in rough times but someone out there will buy into YOU #SLAChats — Zainab Balogun (@Zainab__Balogun) January 14, 2016 Special thanks to Zainab for joining us and for everyone who participated. If you want keep up to date with future events hosted by She Leads Africa, join our community and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram