McCann launches media development training programme

The shortage of competent and skilled black media personnel within the media industry could be ascribed to a lack of training being offered to black individuals with an interest in media. Universal McCann, a specialist media and planning house and corridor company of Herbuoys McCann-Erickson, has recognised this shortage and decided to tackle the problem with the launching of a development programme called "Masemong" - a North Sesotho word that is used for the cultivation of crops and herding of cattle, where skills are passed down from one generation to another in order to ensure future survival techniques within their communities - 'You reap what you sow', the aim of the programme being to provide potential candidates the opportunity to 'start sowing'.

The program runs for a period of three months and will be held twice a year, February, March and April and June, July and August. Three candidates will be selected from all applicants and be given the opportunity to be immersed in the media environment for a period of three months.

McCann says that a number of their clients have expressed an interest in allowing the 'trainees' to be involved in their business, and the intention is to equip the candidates with the basic knowledge to make decision as to whether they would like to continue a career in media or not. They should leave the three month period with a good understanding of the South African population and their media habits, an insight into what media strategy, planning and buying is all about and an understanding of available research and media tools, as well as the Universal McCann proprietary tools.

Potential candidates are invited to contact Mpho Chokwe for an application form on
235 4777 or mpho_chokwe@mccann.com.