Media personality Mohale Motaung believes South Africans can tap into the booming world of digital content creation to build personal wealth and long-term success. Speaking to SMag at the Savanna pop-up speakeasy during the DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival, Motaung shared insights on how this industry helped him purchase his first home through collaborations with various brands.
“Many times, people believe that when you are in this industry [digital content creation], you can’t buy a house or a car because the income isn’t stable. I have been able to do both, hence I qualified to get a mortgage bond,” Motaung explained.
While digital content creation may seem like a world of fleeting campaigns and quick photo shoots, Motaung revealed a more strategic approach. “It’s more than just a picture here and a campaign there. They often don’t know how to maximise the opportunity and make money. Many influencers need to learn how to manage their money, have retirement annuities, medical aid, and policies in place,” he said.
Motaung’s success in content creation hasn’t stopped him from pursuing other passions. Recently seen on House of Zwide portraying Moses Moloi, the multi-talented star has had to juggle his acting career, brand partnerships, and academic ambitions. After a hiatus from education, Motaung is now pursuing not one, but two qualifications—simultaneously.
“Finally, I did it!” he exclaimed. “I’m doing my first year. It’s hectic but it’s good. I’m trying to juggle school, content creation, and TV. I’m pursuing a BCom and BBA. I’ve always been an academic, and over the years something kept bothering me, telling me to go back to school. When I dropped out, I no longer wanted to continue with my original degree. I wanted to change it to align with my interest in media, so I shifted from international relations to marketing.”
Motaung’s long-term vision is to support upcoming digital creators, not only by managing their careers but by educating them on how to secure important assets and create sustainable businesses. “I want to one day have my own agency and teach media people and influencers how to make this a business and make money from it. I want other digital creators to see that it’s possible to make this a long-term career,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Motaung is filled with gratitude for the lessons and opportunities that have come his way. “The highlight of my career thus far is maintaining what I do while remaining grounded. I am proud of myself for being able to manage this career properly, figuring out where opportunities lie, and turning them into a long-term business.”
