Being world-class lies not just in reaching the destination but in enjoying every step of the journey
Back in the days of scraped knees and dreams as big as the sky, I was a kid who believed in being the greatest of all time. It didn't matter what path life would lead me down; in my mind, it was destined to be on a world-class level. Growing up, my cousin Rito Hlungwani was a hero of sorts. He's the forwards coach for the Stormers and a United Rugby Championship champion. I remember thinking, "Maybe I'll be a Springbok rugby player one day," simply because he played rugby. I even took up the same position, number 5, in homage to him.
Now, years later, I find myself on a different journey, steering the ship at WOOSH, a creative agency. Although miles away from the rugby field, the dream remains—to be the best at what I do. There's a certain charm in being world-class, a unique je ne sais quoi.
As time rolled on, experiences shaped my perspective, refining what I consider "world-class." It's not just about Porsche as a car brand but also Singer Vehicle Design, breathing new life into Porsches. I've learned that regardless of your field, the dream of being world-class is within reach. You might be wondering, even for a gardener? Yes, even your landscaper (see what I did there?). Take Mbali Nhlapo, for instance—a housekeeper turned viral sensation, offering tips on homemaking. If the president were dropping by for dinner, she's the one I'd call to prep my home.
Over the past year, the passion for being world-class has quietly tiptoed back into my heart as I aim to elevate WOOSH into one of the best creative agencies globally. Our growth isn't just about revenue; it's about the calibre and quality of the work we produce. To be the best means going the extra mile—not just for clients but for myself. It's a reminder that on this journey, staying true to the course requires relentless striving, fuelled by a tunnel vision that sees beyond the horizon.
Each project is an opportunity to not only showcase our skills but to redefine what it means to be world-class in the creative realm. It's not just about delivering a service; it's about crafting an experience that lingers, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of our clients' visions. It's like we get to be rock stars, but in a world that we understand.
So here's to childhood dreams that shape our ambitions and to the journey that turns those dreams into creative realities. May we keep chasing world-class, not just because the world demands it, but because our souls crave the pursuit of excellence. After all, the beauty of being world-class lies not just in reaching the destination but in enjoying every step of the journey.
Msimeki Nkatingi #WELCOME2MYTHOUGHTS