Businesswoman and former Miss South Africa, Basetsana Kumalo recently announced that she is stepping down as the CEO of Connect TV after 30 years and will hand over the baton to her former producer, Kopano Cowen whom she has mentored for ten years.
Connect TV has produced Becoming, Our Perfect Wedding, Date My Family and Married at First Sight among others.
Taking to her Instagram page to share the news, Basetsana said she has always believed in mentoring and seeing young women come to their full potential of reaching their dreams and destinies.
“Some of them have become lawyers, doctors, HR specialists, household names in the creative economy. I have witnessed many trajectories of these game changer, world shaker and history makers.
“Kopano I am proud of you, your work ethic is impeccable, your astute mind is laudable, your focus is commendable and your passion for television and content creation is inspiring. I know you are going to take connect channel to new levels of success with your deep understanding of where the future of content is headed and what viewers are consuming,” she noted.
Basetsana congratulated Kopano and said she will always have her support as she steps down and hands over to her. She encouraged Kopano to go and run the race.
“She studied and obtained an LLB degree and then went on to work in production, growing in experience from production intern to executive producer. She also has experience in acquisition, having worked in contracts administration at Mnet. She has recently completed her post-graduate degree in business administration with Milpark Business School,” said Basetsana.
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Instagram users took to the comment section to weigh in.
One user said: “So proud of you sister and what a deserving hardworking and visionary person Kopano, best wishes.”
Another one said: “Mentorship in action! Congratulations Kopano, well deserved mam, and to you Aus Basetsana for always practicing what you preach.”
Actress, Kayise Ngqula said: “MaB, you will forever remain blessed because of what you have done for many women in this industry, me included. Thank you for being obedient to the call. Your path ahead is brighter than ever now even though you have made the decision to step back. Kopano congratulations and God speed to you.”
