PRCA Africa NextGen announces committee

As Chair, Lerato Motloung will serve a two-year term and join the PRCA Africa Executive Committee

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has announced a new leadership team for its Africa NextGen Group, appointing Lerato Motloung as Chair as the organisation continues to expand opportunities for emerging public relations and communications professionals across the continent.

Lerato Motloung, Account Director at Havas South Africa, succeeds Cherná Lutta, who steps down after leading the group's development and overseeing a series of initiatives aimed at supporting students and early-career professionals.

Leadership transition builds on growth

During Cherná Lutta's tenure, the PRCA Africa NextGen Group introduced regular breakfast events, student bootcamps across South Africa, online learning opportunities and its first PRCA Africa NextGen Conference, held as part of the PRCA South Africa Conference earlier this year.

As Chair, Lerato Motloung will serve a two-year term and join the PRCA Africa Executive Committee, representing the interests of early-career communications professionals as part of the organisation's wider strategic direction.

Committee welcomes new appointments

Sarah-Justine Ward, Social & Influencer Lead at Clockwork, has been appointed Vice-Chair. Under the group's succession model, she will work alongside Lerato Motloung during the next two years before assuming the role of Chair.

The committee has also appointed Thulisa Mvandaba, PR Account Manager at Havas South Africa, who brings experience in client management, media relations and strategic communications.

Focus remains on emerging professionals

The PRCA Africa NextGen Group supports students, graduates and early-career practitioners through networking opportunities, industry events and professional development programmes. Upcoming activities include breakfast sessions in Johannesburg and Cape Town, alongside a series of online events, including Meet the Media.

Lerato Motloung, Chair, PRCA Africa NextGen Group: "I'm honoured to take on the role of Chair and build on the fantastic work that has already been done. The NextGen Group has become a valuable community where emerging professionals can learn from one another, build meaningful connections and develop the skills they need to thrive. I'm also excited to join the PRCA Africa Executive Committee, ensuring that the voice of early career professionals and those preparing to work in the industry are represented as we help shape the wider direction of PRCA Africa. I'm looking forward to working alongside SJ and Thulisa as we continue creating opportunities that help shape the future of our profession."

Sarah-Justine Ward, Vice-Chair, PRCA Africa NextGen Group: "I'm delighted to step into the role of Vice-Chair and support Lerato as we continue growing the NextGen Group. Having a clear succession model allows us to think long-term, build on the strong foundations already in place and ensure the group continues to evolve. I'm excited to help create more opportunities for young professionals to connect, learn and play an active role in the future of Africa's communications industry."

Jo Brophy, Head of International Membership, PRCA: "Cherná has done an exceptional job leading the NextGen Group and has helped establish a thriving community that continues to go from strength to strength. We're thrilled to welcome Lerato as Chair and SJ as Vice-Chair, with a succession model that provides continuity and supports the group's long-term growth. We're also pleased to welcome Thulisa to the Committee, whose experience and enthusiasm will be a valuable addition as we continue expanding opportunities for students, those starting their careers, and early-career professionals working both in-house and within agencies across Africa."

www.prca.global

Follow Marketing Report on LinkedIn