Women In Marketing 2024 Edition ft. Shannon Bhengu from Ashburton Investments

In our latest Women In Marketing segment, we chat with Shannon Bhengu, Communication Specialist at Ashburton Investments, who shared her insights on the ideal learning scenario, emphasizing the importance of combining online learning with in-person interactions to prepare individuals for the modern work landscape, where flexibility and adaptability are key.

Personal Background:

Thanks for taking the time to participate in our ‘Women In Marketing’ feature. Where were you born, and what childhood memories stand out for you?

I was born in Cape Town. Some of my happiest childhood memories are of playing outside whenever I wanted. We had the freedom to run around, explore and make up games with friends. Someone was always watching out for us – whether it was a neighbour or older kids in the community. Those moments were special and taught me the value of being part of a caring community.

Describe your high school and college years. You were the coolest one, right?

In high school, I was well-known, but I wouldn’t say I was the coolest. I preferred to stay under the radar rather than seek attention or try to stand out. However, when I got to university, things changed. I stood out for my academic achievements, which earned me recognition and became known among my peers. Back then, you automatically earned your ‘cool’ stripes through good academics.

In both high school and university, I always aimed to stand out for the right reasons – whether through hard work, strong values or contributing positively to those around me. 

What’s your favourite meal that you wouldn’t share with anyone?

A Double Quarter Pounder meal from McDonald’s is my absolute favourite. If someone asks to share or bite, it throws me off completely. It’s like, don’t interrupt my moment with my food! Hahaha! 

via GIPHY

What would be your plans for a sudden $10 million windfall if you were to receive it tomorrow?

I would settle long-term debts, invest a significant portion of the money and ensure that my family is well taken care of.

Can you share an interesting fact or hidden talent not found on your LinkedIn profile? Previous Women in Marketing candidate Anastasia Hamel says that she can breathe fire!

I’m good at UNO – haha! 

I’ve got all the strategies down to a tee, from the tactics to card power moves you name it. It’s a game that brings out my competitive side and I’m not afraid to drop that +4 when it counts!

Career and Work:

How do you typically start your day, and are you #TeamCoffee, #TeamTea, or both?

#TeamCoffee all the way! 

My mornings start with a prayer, asking for guidance for the day ahead. This is followed by reading my Bible and devotional scriptures. I then make my bed – there’s something powerful about making your bed yourself first thing in the morning. I even read a book called ‘Make Your Bed’. It talks about how this small act can set the tone for the day. After that, I feel ready to take on whatever comes my way. It’s all about starting the day with intention and preparation!

What inspired you to pursue a career in marketing? Didn’t the “I want to become a doctor” bug bite you?

Of course, the “I want to become a doctor” dream hit me! However, I had no idea I would end up in marketing – specifically in communications. It wasn’t even my first choice. However I decided to apply for a Public Relations course, and during that year, I worked in retail for a reputable cosmetics brand that took customer service and brand integrity very seriously. It was then that I realised my decision aligned perfectly with my interests.

You hold a Diploma in Public Relations and BTech in Project Management from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (You Go, Girl!!). Considering the rise of online educational platforms like Coursera and Google Skillshop, how do you foresee the future of tertiary-based education?

I think the future of tertiary education will combine traditional learning with online platforms. Online education makes it easier for more people to access learning, while traditional education provides valuable in-person experiences. Together, they create a flexible and practical way of learning that helps students prepare for the modern workplace.

Many industries had to create systems overnight that would enable their respective workforces to work from home due to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. What’s your perspective on remote and hybrid work, and how have you dealt with its challenges? Do you have a preference?

I see remote and hybrid working in much the same way as I do education. Having the option to work both remotely and in person gives people the best of both worlds. Remote work offers flexibility, making it easier to balance personal and work life. But in-person work has its advantages too, like encouraging collaboration and building stronger team connections. I prefer a hybrid workplace. 

AI is the hot topic of the day, most specifically, generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard. How do you address the challenges you face in your day-to-day responsibilities? Any specific tools you’d like to plug us with? 

I don’t have any special tools to recommend, but I’ve heard that Gemini is pretty good.  The world is changing fast and it’s all about adapting or falling behind. I don’t see generative AI tools as a challenge in my industry; I view them as an opportunity. They can help make things easier, spark new ideas and create new ways of doing things. Embracing these tools will help us stay ahead in a world that’s constantly in a state of flux.

2024 and Beyond:

How have you been since the start of the pandemic, and have there been any significant personal or professional moments from then until now?

I’m truly thankful that during the pandemic, I was able to transform my mind and health. I was very intentional about prioritising my mental health and overall well-being and I’ve continued to carry those habits forward to this day.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t take things too personally. How people treat you is a reflection of them, not you.

What are your personal or professional goals and aspirations for the future? We hope to see you on Forbes’ Most Influential CMOs list. No pressure!

I aspire to be an inspirational leader who motivates others to reach their full potential and one who leads with integrity, empathy and purpose. My goal is to create a positive and lasting impact, not only within a team that I will lead or organisation but also in my broader community.

What are you currently reading, and how do you consume your content?

I’m a firm believer in a paperback book and I’m reading ‘Finish What You Started’ to improve my focus, overcome procrastination and develop the discipline to complete tasks and goals I’ve set for myself. It’s about building habits that lead to greater productivity and personal growth.

What are you currently streaming that you’d recommend?

I am streaming a podcast series on Spotify by my pastor, titled ‘Seven Leadership Lessons for Young Leaders’. He provides easy-to-understand tips and practical advice, all guided by biblical principles.

You wake up one day, and before you know it, you are nearing retirement. What would you like your professional legacy to be? Furthermore, what do your colleagues and superiors admire about you the most?

I want my professional legacy to be about making a meaningful impact. I’d like to be remembered as someone who led with integrity, inspired others and helped create opportunities for growth and success.

Share a unique message for young professionals in the marketing industry.

It is possible. When you put in the hard work, stay consistent and remain focused on your goals, you will eventually see the results. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with determination and effort, the rewards of your dedication will become clear. Keep pushing forward and trust the process.

Thank you for your time, Shannon. We hope this interview will inspire future leaders and other Women in Marketing. How can people follow you and your company on social media? 

 You can find me on LinkedIn.

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