Multimedia Manager (March 2024 - June 2024)
The Surplus People Project (SPP) was established in 1983 as a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting rural communities in South Africa. Initially formed in response to forced removals during apartheid, SPP played a pivotal role in advocating for land rights and social justice, working with displaced communities to address issues of land access and agrarian reform. Over the years, SPP has evolved into a significant player in promoting sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, and equitable development, partnering with rural farmers and local organizations to enhance resilience and self-reliance. The organization continues to focus on empowering marginalized groups by advocating for land reform and building sustainable livelihoods through agriculture and environmental conservation.
Surplus People Project – Cape Town, South Africa
February 2024 – May 2024
During my tenure as a Media and Communications Intern at Surplus People Project, I leveraged my multimedia skills and communication strategies to amplify the organization’s presence both online and within the community. Working closely with the team, I focused on content creation, social media management, and driving engagement through outreach programs. My efforts contributed to significant growth in the organization’s digital footprint and community impact.
Multimedia Content Creation
One of my primary roles involved capturing, editing, and disseminating a wide array of multimedia content. Over the course of my internship, I produced 50+ projects including videos, photographs, and infographics that were designed to resonate with Surplus People Project's audience. This content played a crucial role in enhancing the organization's storytelling efforts and boosting its online engagement by a remarkable 170% during my time. Each project was tailored to highlight the organization’s advocacy for social justice, land reform, and sustainable development, making the content both impactful and visually engaging.
LinkedIn Profile Setup & Growth
Recognizing the importance of a professional online presence, I spearheaded the creation and development of Surplus People Project’s LinkedIn profile. Through targeted content and outreach strategies, I successfully grew the profile’s follower base to 700+ raw followers. This new platform allowed the organization to expand its network, engage with stakeholders more effectively, and raise awareness about its initiatives on a professional level.
Community Outreach & Engagement
In addition to my digital work, I also contributed to the success of 8 community outreach programs, working closely with the team to ensure these sessions reached the right audiences. After each session, I actively engaged with participants, gathering feedback and building relationships, which helped increase turnouts by 15% for subsequent programs. My role was instrumental in strengthening the connection between the organization and the communities it serves, ensuring the outreach programs were both impactful and inclusive.
Social Media Management & Growth
Managing Surplus People Project’s social media platforms was a key responsibility, and through consistent engagement and strategic posting, I achieved an average 60% increase in followers across all platforms. By regularly interacting with the audience, sharing engaging content, and staying aligned with current trends, I also contributed to a 30% rise in engagement rates. This growth was a direct result of the compelling content strategy I implemented, which not only attracted new followers but also encouraged meaningful interactions with the audience.
Researching Trends & Strategies
To keep the organization’s digital strategy competitive, I conducted weekly research on new social media trends and content strategies. This proactive approach led to a consistent 20% increase in monthly impressions, ensuring that Surplus People Project remained relevant and visible to its target audience. By staying ahead of the curve and applying industry best practices, I was able to optimize our digital efforts and ensure sustained growth over time.