Why South African Grit Is a Global Marketing Advantage — Monde Mtolo

In this episode of South African Tech Marketers, we dive into the remarkable and refreshingly honest story of Monde Mtolo, Digital Director at Stratitude.

Monde shares how he hustled his way from a university student experimenting with Canva and selling furniture on Facebook Marketplace, to now leading digital marketing strategies for high-profile clients.

His story is a powerful blend of entrepreneurial spirit, creative grit, and tech-savvy resourcefulness—proving that the path into global tech doesn't have to be linear.

Whether you’re early in your career or looking to pivot into the tech world, this episode offers a masterclass in making a plan, building from nothing, and leveraging tools like AI to thrive in global marketing roles.

 

Topics Discussed:

• How a one-module delay at university launched Monde’s marketing career
  
• Starting out as a self-taught freelancer using Canva and Wix
  
• Lessons from running an e-commerce furniture store during COVID
  
• Navigating career transitions from banking to digital leadership
  
• Making peace with leaving the wrong job (even if it pays well)
  
• How AI tools (like ChatGPT and Fea) are helping Monde outperform traditional teams
  
• Building real skills and real relationships in a fragmented job market
  
• Why every marketer should have a story-driven CV and portfolio
  

Takeaways:

• Don’t obsess about reaching certain milestones by certain times – the job you want might not even exist yet.
  
• Work with agencies that connect South African talent globally – they’ve already sold companies on our value.
  
• Being South African is a superpower – our work ethic and English proficiency sets us apart internationally.
  
• Remote work should fit into your life, not the other way around – focus on results, not hours at your desk.
• Stay curious and embrace new tools like AI – use them to enhance your work, not replace it.
• Build community with other remote workers – whether through co-working days or online networks.