Citylife Business

By Ziyanda Thwala and Zama Shezi

In a country where the legacy of apartheid still looms large and first-generation black female entrepreneurs in the gig economy struggle to develop business models that can effect true economic transformation, JT Communication Solutions stands out as one of the most innovative and successful agencies in the media strategy, integrated public relations, and communication industry. Founded 19 years ago by Vanessa Perumal, JT Comms has built a reputation as a trailblazer in the field, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in communication, job creation, and leadership.

From humble beginnings, JT Comms has grown into a powerhouse agency with a network of Pan-African talent that enables it to stay ahead of the curve. Over the years, the agency has worked with a wide variety of clients, ranging from private sector clients and cultural leaders to government agencies and multinational corporations, producing some of the most compelling and engaging content in the industry with a strategic, intentional business model that positions the agency as a leader in the fight for economic transformation in South Africa.

At the core of JT Comms’ success is its commitment to authenticity and inclusivity. Vanessa Perumal, the founder of the agency, has long understood the power of storytelling and the importance of ensuring that African narratives are told by Africans. Her dedication to this mission has been the driving force behind the agency’s success. Using her skills as a formally trained journalist, communications and media strategist, Perumal has enabled her team to deliver solutions that are both diverse and impactful.

JT Comms’ dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In December 2023, the agency won the National Presidential inaugural SMME award for SMME Owned by Persons with Disabilities, highlighting its dedication to inclusivity and diversity. This is a remarkable achievement that speaks to the agency’s unwavering commitment to excellence. The agency has also received other highly prized awards, including Perumal’s recognition as the winner of the Mbokado Awards for Women of the Year in Category Women in Arts and Media.

Over the years, JT Comms has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including brands such as MNS Attorneys, Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Pan African AI disruptor Adanain Lab, the Department of Arts and Culture, Midem, Drakensburg Promotions, Reeperbahn Festival, and many others. The agency has also been at the forefront of promoting arts and culture in South Africa, working with organizations such as the National Arts Festival, the Johannesburg International Arts Alive Festivals, Joburg Theatre, SAMRO, the Endowment of the National Arts, MOSHITO, Living Legends Progamme and more

What sets JT Comms apart from its peers is its ability to constantly evolve and stay relevant in an ever-changing communication landscape. From traditional media to social media, JT Comms has always been at the forefront of communication, always pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the industry. “That we are the only surviving media, PR, comms, and integrated agency in our scale in a new South Africa is testament to the hard work of the dozens of outstanding staff, consultants, and interns who have worked tirelessly across business ecosystems, markets, and sectors. To reach the kind of success against the odds like we continue to demonstrate showcases the hard work and legacy of a brand steeped in a collective vision of collaboration. That our clients continue to buy from our agency in all seasons is testament to the men and women who have paved the way for future generations to build the brand,” says Perumal.

Looking back at the agency’s 19-year journey, it is clear that JT Comms has come a long way. From its early days. For JT Comms to achieve success at the level it has reached is a testament to the men and women whose legacy on the continent continues to shape the African Narrative. This legacy includes working on brands and global icons such as Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Jonas Gwangwa, Sibongile Khumalo, Gcina Mhlope, Alice Walker, Sipho Gumede, Jessica Mbangeni, Mandla Mlangeni , Holly, and other great cultural icons and legacy builders.

This demonstrates the power of the ecosystem of the brand. Over the years, JT Comms has expanded its reach in developing media practitioners by supporting freelance writers, content creators, and multimedia storytellers. The agency has successfully invested in the African Media Resource Centre, starting with the Living Legends program, and now scaling to find support to rebirth and reposition this pipeline. The agency’s commitment to developing the next generation of African media professionals is impressive and a key factor in its continued success.

The agency believes that building legacy brands is critical to demonstrate how post-apartheid black business, especially women and youth in business, are changing the economic landscape of their country and the continent. The company’s key focus is using technology and building ecosystem enablers, such as diversifying into entrepreneurship, to create sustainable business models and transform economies. JT Communication Solutions looks forward to connecting with investors and partners who can help them achieve their goals and be part of the pipeline to drive economic transformation.

Connect to JT Comms on all their social media platforms and their website is www.jtcomms.co.za