Mellow Creme

Exploring the Intersection of Brand Storytelling and Product Design: A Conversation with Chanetsa Mukahanana

Part 3: Unveiling Africa’s Creative Leaders: A Sneak Peek

This is the last of the 3 part series interview with Chanetsa. I want to play a bigger role in leading Africa’s communications industry and shaping how we tell our stories and speaking to Chanetsa and the guidance he is giving me for better understanding of product design empowers me even more. From innovative startups to established agencies, African visionaries are driving change and sparking inspiration across the continent and UX and UI are playing an integral part in this growth.

Mellow: Today, we take a departure from our exploration of design leadership to shine a spotlight on Africa’s creative luminaries. Can you share some insights into the remarkable work that is making waves in the communications industry?

Chanetsa: Absolutely. Africa’s creative ecosystem is teeming with talent and ingenuity, and it’s truly inspiring to witness the diverse array of voices and perspectives that are emerging. From groundbreaking startups leveraging design thinking to solve pressing social challenges to established agencies pioneering new approaches to storytelling, there’s a palpable sense of energy and innovation sweeping across the continent.

Mellow: Could you highlight a few examples of creative leaders or initiatives that stand out to you personally?

Chanetsa: Without a doubt! One standout example is the 2020 acquisition of Paystack, a Nigerian fintech startup, by Stripe for $200 million. Paystack has been instrumental in revolutionizing online payments in Nigeria and across Africa, providing businesses with robust payment solutions tailored to the unique needs of the African market. This acquisition not only underscores the increasing global recognition of African tech innovation but also highlights the pivotal role that product design and user experience play in shaping the future of financial technology on the continent.

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Furthermore, there’s a vibrant software startup scene emerging in South Africa, particularly in cities like Cape Town. These startups, such as those listed on platforms like F6S, are at the forefront of innovation, leveraging design thinking principles to develop user-centric solutions that address local challenges while also catering to global demand. This demonstrates the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary approach to design and storytelling, where UX/UI principles intersect with brand strategy to create impactful experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.

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Mellow: It’s inspiring to hear about the groundbreaking work being done in Africa’s creative landscape. How do you envision the role of design thinking evolving in the years to come, particularly within the context of Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities?

Chanetsa: Design thinking holds tremendous promise as a catalyst for positive change in Africa and beyond. As we confront complex social, economic, and environmental challenges, the principles of empathy, collaboration, and innovation inherent in design thinking will become increasingly vital. I envision a future where African creative leaders continue to leverage design thinking as a tool for driving sustainable development, fostering inclusive growth, and amplifying diverse voices across the continent.

Mellow: Thanks a lot Chanetsa. I appreciate you taking this time out to share your world with mine. I know you are a private person who rarely speaks so this means a lot to me and my followers. As I embark on this journey of discovery and exploration, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for the transformative possibilities that lie ahead.

Conclusion

Let us join hands in celebrating Africa’s creative leaders and their unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change through design thinking and innovative communication. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Africa’s creative economy and inspire a new generation of visionary leaders.

Refer back to Part 1 of this interview

Refer back to Part 2 of this interview