I am a versatile Communications Specialist with over 20 years of experience in copywriting, editing, journalism, and strategic communication. I hold a Master’s Degree in Journalism and have delivered measurable impact in high-pressure media environments. Renowned for my editorial precision and narrative insight, I have consistently elevated brand voice and visibility, most notably increasing the Mr Price Foundation’s Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) to over R56 million in three years. I thrive in purpose-driven roles where I can contribute expert writing and editing with strategic clarity, especially in part-time or freelance hybrid positions.

Farzanah Asmal

I am a versatile Communications Specialist with over 20 years of experience in copywriting, editing, journalism, and strategic communication. I hold a Master’s Degree in Journalism and have delivered measurable impact in high-pressure media environments. Renowned for my editorial precision and narrative insight, I have consistently elevated brand voice and visibility, most notably increasing the Mr Price Foundation’s Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) to over R56 million in three years. I thrive in purpose-driven roles where I can contribute expert writing and editing with strategic clarity, especially in part-time or freelance hybrid positions.

Available to hire

I am a versatile Communications Specialist with over 20 years of experience in copywriting, editing, journalism, and strategic communication. I hold a Master’s Degree in Journalism and have delivered measurable impact in high-pressure media environments.

Renowned for my editorial precision and narrative insight, I have consistently elevated brand voice and visibility, most notably increasing the Mr Price Foundation’s Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) to over R56 million in three years. I thrive in purpose-driven roles where I can contribute expert writing and editing with strategic clarity, especially in part-time or freelance hybrid positions.

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Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent
Afrikaans
Advanced

Work Experience

Media Specialist at Mr Price Foundation
May 1, 2017 - Present
Lead writer and editor for all internal and external communications. Produced publications, coffee table books, digital copy, feature stories, web content, and event scripts. Managed national media relationships and strategic messaging. Grew AVE from near-zero to over R56 million in three years. Monitored media and provided regular reports and insights. Managed online engagement via Freshdesk.
Freelance Communications & Copywriting Specialist at Self-employed
January 1, 2013 - Present
Developed tailored content and editorial copy. Crafted media releases, blog posts, and speech content. Edited reports, newsletters, and strategic plans. Supported media outreach and campaign planning.
Lecturer – Journalism at Durban University of Technology
January 1, 2004 - January 1, 2009
Lectured in media writing, news production, and ethics. Supervised student newsroom and online publication. Mentored students on research and editing techniques.
Communication Specialist at KZN Department of Agriculture
January 1, 2003 - January 1, 2004
Managed a communications team and directed editorial output. Created speeches, newsletters, and campaign materials. Led corporate identity and brand messaging development.

Education

Master of Philosophy in Journalism at University of Stellenbosch
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2008
Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism at Rhodes University
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 1998
BA in Journalism & Media Studies, History at Rhodes University
January 1, 1995 - January 1, 1998

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Education, Government, Professional Services