If Hypress doesn’t know it, then it probably doesn’t exist. With a black book to die for, Melanie Ramjee has rightly claimed her spot as one of JHB’s leading publicists running Tutone Communications.

You have worked hard to get to where you are now.  Is there a particular challenge you experienced that has defined you now?
 
I was always afraid to start my own business. After the recession in 2008 and 2009, the company I worked for was in a bad state. I started hating my job and was depressed. I quit my job and started faced unemployment in my early 30’s. I think the fear of not having a job pushed me to actual finally start my business. I registered my company in 2010 with the last few rands I had, a mini laptop and nothing else. The rest is history.

What does your typical day (if at all?) entail?
 
Fortunately not. I do a mix of PR, events, social media, ambassadorships, etc so no day is ever typical. My day usually requires a lot of talking to media and clients, hours on social media, a few meetings, writing a press release or two. In the evening, a party, launch or event of some sort.

Besides running a successful business, you are a mum. What is the one lesson you would like to instill in your son for when he is older?
 
One of the most important one’s is RESPECT. Respect for people: I was raised in a mixed family and raised to know we are all equal. Musa is half Xhosa, quarter coloured and quarter Indian making him truly South African.  Respect for money: Musa might be a little more financially privileged than I was but by no means will he ever be spoon fed. I am raising him to value things and know that he must work hard in life to succeed. 
 
What common issues do you see new brands face when trying to make their mark on the scene?
 
I worry about this. Many young brands these days expect instance fame and gratification. It’s so unfortunate that many young people/ brands don’t see the road to success as a journey but rather something that needs to happen right now. I have seen so many brands rise and then disappear without months over the last two years and it saddens me.

Do you think PR is S.A has a long way to go compared to the international landscape and what would you change if you could?
 
I definitely think we are on par with our international counterparts. There are some elements where we are still behind but soon catching up with them now. Also there are other factors that contribute to those elements being a little behind that can’t be controlled. We don’t have the buying power like the US or Europe or even the economy that they do. I would probably like to educate brands a little more about the power of social media.

What is the biggest misconception about your job?
 
Its all FUN and not hard work! Meaning we have fun all day, meet celebs, attend cool events and don’t really work. ALL LIES!

Article by DJ Roxxi