Makkie Mlombo, affectionately known as Makkie MJ, is a visionary entrepreneur who founded MJ Curated Creative Agency to empower rural communities in South Africa. Based in Mbombela, her agency offers tailored digital marketing and creative solutions aimed at closing the digital divide for businesses in underserved regions. Makkie’s passion for uplifting local enterprises through digital literacy and marketing strategies stems from her own experiences growing up in a rural area, inspiring her mission to help businesses thrive in the digital age.
Origin and Inspiration
The Spark of an Idea
Makkie’s inspiration for starting MJ Curated Creative emerged from her personal experiences and observations of the digital landscape in her community. “I realized that while digital marketing and creative services were thriving in urban centers, there was a significant gap in rural communities,” she recalls. Witnessing local businesses struggling to adapt to the digital age ignited her passion for bridging this divide. Makkie explains, “I wanted to not only provide creative solutions but also empower people in these communities through digital literacy.”
Influences from Childhood
Makkie’s entrepreneurial spirit was heavily influenced by her upbringing. Raised by a single mother who juggled her role as a school principal and multiple small businesses, Makkie learned invaluable lessons about resilience and problem-solving. “My mother always encouraged me to think critically about the challenges around us and to find solutions,” she shares. This foundation motivated her to create MJ Curated Creative, a business that aims to empower local communities while addressing modern challenges.
Business Overview
What is MJ Curated Creative?
MJ Curated Creative is a digital marketing and content creation agency based in Mbombela, specializing in empowering businesses, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. “Our goal is to provide tailored digital marketing strategies, content creation services, and branding development to help businesses reach their full potential online,” Makkie explains. The agency also offers training and mentorship programs, equipping entrepreneurs with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
Unique Value Proposition
What sets MJ Curated Creative apart from other agencies is its deep commitment to community empowerment. “Unlike other digital marketing agencies, we focus on closing the digital gap in areas and industries that are often overlooked,” Makkie says. The agency prioritizes building long-term relationships with clients, emphasizing a hands-on approach that understands local challenges.
Products and Services
MJ Curated Creative offers a wide range of services, including:
- Social Media Marketing
- Content Creation
- Brand Development
- Online Training
- Event Content Management
- Consulting
These services benefit clients by enhancing their digital presence, engaging their target audience effectively, and fostering growth in a competitive online environment. Makkie adds, “Our online trainings are particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs who want to manage their digital marketing in-house.”
Getting in Touch
Potential clients can reach MJ Curated Creative through social media channels or by emailing mjcuratedcreative@gmail.com. Currently, Makkie is offering a special promotion: “We have a 30% discount on the first month of social media management services for new clients who sign up within the next 30 days.”
Challenges and Overcoming Them
Facing Adversity
Starting MJ Curated Creative was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was securing capital to fund her ideas. “The only equipment I had was my cellphone, and access to the internet was limited,” Makkie recalls. She overcame this by bootstrapping the business, relying on her skills and network to build a foundation.
Building Trust and Credibility
Introducing digital marketing services to rural businesses was another challenge. “I focused on educating clients and offering value upfront,” Makkie explains. By initially providing small services, like designing logos and promotional materials, she was able to build relationships and demonstrate the benefits of digital marketing.
Resilience in the Face of Rejection
Makkie faced moments of doubt, particularly during periods of rejection. “I questioned whether I could keep going when progress was slow,” she admits. However, her deeper purpose kept her motivated: “I reminded myself why I started the business—to make a real difference in rural communities.”
Business Strategy
Funding the Dream
Makkie initially funded her business through bootstrapping, relying on personal income and support from family and friends. “I was strategic about where every cent was spent,” she explains. By prioritizing investments in essential tools, she laid a sustainable foundation for MJ Curated Creative.
Marketing Approaches
In terms of marketing, Makkie leveraged networking, community engagement, and social media. “Word-of-mouth was incredibly effective,” she shares. However, not all strategies were successful. “I invested in a broad online ad campaign that didn’t yield the results I hoped for,” she admits. This taught her the importance of understanding her audience and led to a more targeted, personalized approach to marketing.
Learning and Growth
Key Lessons Learned
One of the most important lessons Makkie learned early on was the value of a positive mindset. “Setbacks are a natural part of the journey,” she reflects. Instead of viewing challenges negatively, she embraced them as opportunities for growth. Additionally, she learned the importance of truly listening to customers, which allowed her to tailor her services effectively.
Staying Updated in the Industry
To keep pace with industry trends, Makkie continuously educates herself through online courses, webinars, and industry publications. “I make it a point to stay informed and connected,” she emphasizes, ensuring MJ Curated Creative remains at the cutting edge of digital marketing.
Balancing Life and Work
Managing Personal and Professional Life
As a single parent of two, balancing the demands of business and personal life is crucial for Makkie. “Establishing clear boundaries and prioritizing my time is essential,” she states. She advocates for structured schedules, setting boundaries, and recognizing the importance of self-care.
Advice for Work-Life Balance
“My advice to other entrepreneurs is to remember that self-care and family time are not luxuries but necessities,” Makkie shares. This balance not only enhances productivity but also fosters satisfaction in both personal and professional realms.
Advice and Vision
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Makkie advises aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace resilience and adaptability. “The entrepreneurial journey is filled with uncertainties, but a positive mindset will help you navigate obstacles,” she notes. She also emphasizes the importance of building a solid support network.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Makkie envisions a bright future for MJ Curated Creative. “In the next 5-10 years, I see my business expanding its reach, empowering even more rural entrepreneurs,” she expresses. Her long-term goals include creating a comprehensive digital marketing platform tailored to underserved communities.
Reflection and Impact
Proud Achievements
Reflecting on her journey, Makkie considers her proudest achievement to be the impact she has made on her community. “I want my business to empower others and contribute to the local economy,” she states.
Legacy and Future Plans
Ultimately, Makkie hopes to leave a legacy of empowerment and innovation. “I want to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs to harness the power of digital tools and create positive change,” she concludes.
Makkie Mlombo’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community empowerment, and innovation. Through MJ Curated Creative, she is not only helping businesses thrive in the digital age but also uplifting her community and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with passion and dedication, it is possible to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Connect with Makkie
Instagram: Makkie MJ Mlombo| MJ Curated Creative Agency
Email: mjcuratedcreative@gmail.com
About Author
