Star Colleague: Mariselle Stofberg

1. When did you start at My Zone?

I joined My Zone in 2019 after about six months of working at NMH under Republikein. I was asked to assist the team when one of their members went to further her studies, and was initially supposed to only help for six months, but I met my family and found my home at NMH, so I couldn’t leave them. They were unfortunately stuck with me

2. What is your academic history?

I completed high school in 2014 at Tsumeb Gimnasium and then enrolled for a bachelor’s degree at the North-West University in Potchefstroom, South Africa. I then proceeded to do an honours degree in advanced corporate communications the year thereafter. I completed both cum laude.

3. What are your fondest memories at My Zone?

Trying to sum up all my memories is impossible, because that is the beauty of My Zone. Each day is unique in its own way. I'll always cherish the road trips, even if it's just to Woermann and back. The proud moments when you successfully complete a project, when you see your editorial teams succeed, when we have endless meetings where we end up laughing, the jokes and so much more. The sport events and weekend shifts where you get to grow with your team. On days where I felt hopeless, My Zone was my safe space.

4. What lessons have you learned in the media industry?

The media industry has taught me patience and to be diverse and flexible. It taught me to be resilient and believe in myself, but also remember the power of planning, innovation and teamwork.

5. You were known for spreading love and cheer in the office. What motivated you make everyone feel happy?

What makes me happy is when I get to make others happy. Even when things get tough, I want to bring sunshine to those around me. We have so much sadness and anger in the world and I hope that my light can be the light in someone else's darkness.

6. Why did you decide to venture into the communication industry?

I love people, and writing and engaging with others. Communication is so diverse that you get to learn so many different skills and apply them to all spheres of life. I wanted to pursue a field where I get to follow my passion and be a creator of change. And through my work I get to empower others to tell their stories.

7. What motivation do you have for anyone that would like to move into the media industry?

This field is hard work. It requires you to be devoted and passionate and to never give up. You will hear “no” more times than you can count, and you will continuously be forced to adapt and grow, but in this field you will become stronger, wiser and learn to trust yourself and your abilities. Is it tough? Of course. But it's worth it, trust me.



8. What are your future aspirations and where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I hope to be happy in my work space. I want to grow my skill sets and I want to establish myself within Old Mutual as someone who is passionate, dedicated, creative and innovative. I hope to grow in my career, but most importantly never stop growing as a person.

All is all, I just hope to be happy.