As the Multichoice CEO for general entertainment, there’s no doubt Yolisa Phahle is a force to be reckoned with in the corporate world. Having previously served as the CEO of Electronic Media Network Limited and before that as its channel director, to say she’s well accomplished in the media industry is an understatement.
But there is more to Phahle than meets the eye. She was once a musician who has shared the stage with the likes of Jamiroquai and Duran Duran. While she grew up in London in the UK, she has her roots set firmly in South Africa and is passionate about three things: Her family, broadcasting and music.
spoke to her about her career in digital media, the future of traditional pay television as well as how local producers can better utilise opportunities available for them on Multichoice channels…
There are not as many women in senior leadership positions in the wider media industry so I have had to try and understand what has held us back as well as how to persuade and influence at this level. Multichoice is committed to economic transformation and the company has been very supportive in respect to providing me with opportunities to learn from other female leaders.
It is difficult trying to be a good mother and meet the demands of a 24-hour business. My parents have always been there for my children when I need them, but I have had to give up the idea of ever being a class mom.
Judge us on our results and give promising women opportunities. It is especially important for us as women to open the door for other women.
Cook for my family, eat too much chocolate, read and watch house make-over magazines and programmes and force myself to go to the gym!
We are now competing on a global, not local, level. It is time for us to put our best foot forward and tell more local stories in local languages.
Advertiser funded programming is a win-win for the producer and the brand. TV is still the best bang for your buck and by telling stories that skillfully incorporate product placement, it is possible to get started. I would also suggest using social media and digital platforms to test ideas.
The cost of producing five minutes is more manageable than trying to raise the funds for a movie. If the short clip gains traction on social media, broadcasters will be more interested in the idea of commissioning the show.
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