Desmond Sampson – CHAIRMAN
Desmond Sampson is a seasoned journalist and editor, former teacher, legal consultant and trade unionist (former General Secretary of Sactwu) and Public Relations Practitioner. Desmond carved his niche in sales, marketing and communications with reputable international firm, Montgomery Scott International. With a fascination for sports marketing he went on to form (with a partner) the first black-owned Sports Marketing and Publishing firm, Uhuru Sports.
Looking to diversify and with a passion and commitment to empowering various communities, he formed Uhuru Communications in 2000, with three partners. It is through Desmond’s passion and focus that Uhuru Communications has experienced phenomenal growth and success since its inception.
Thomas Brad Sampson - CEO
Although Thomas graduated with a B Proc law degree in 1996, advertising, sales and marketing were his real passions.
After years of experience with top class local and international publishing houses, where, apart from his role in advertising and sales, he generated new titles, Thomas brings unique expertise to Uhuru.
He also assisted in creating the marketing campaign for the National Olympic Committee in the run up to the Sydney Olympics and acted as advisor on income-generation and sports marketing for SAFA Western Cape during this time.
As CEO of Uhuru Communications, Thomas is responsible for all of the company’s operations.
Shirley Fontaine - Financial Director
As the Financial and Administrative Director of Uhuru Communications, Shirley has created special relationships with our partners and has ensured that the company remains financially stable. Shirley spent 20 years as a National Administrator for the Garment Workers Union (now Sactwu). After two decades of sterling service in the union she moved on to work as a paralegal at various legal firms. Prior to joining Uhuru Communications, as a founding member, she managed a branch of a financial services company. With her wealth of administration and financial management abilities, Shirley is pivotal to the continuing growth and success of Uhuru.
Paul Sampson - Art Director
Paul initially studied graphic design and thereafter worked in the Advertising Industry as an Art Director. Apart from his duties as a Director, Paul manages and directs the overall design process and the publication of all our magazines and print offerings (Eland News, Text Books, Advertising material). Paul plays a pivotal role in conceptualizing and developing the ‘look & feel’ of all creative work that leaves the Uhuru studio.
Joseph Aranes - Group Editor
A seasoned journalist and editor for over 15 years in the newspaper industry – Joseph was formerly an Executive Editor of the Cape Argus. He brings a wealth of experience to Uhuru’s Editorial Department. He is responsible for the high standards of editorial content in all our publications and related communications, ensuring editorial accuracy and excellence. He also plays a major role in developing new business strategies and proposals.
Mario d’Offizi – Assistant Editor
Mario spent close on 25 years as an advertising copywriter/creative director before joining Uhuru communications five years ago as Assistant Editor. Here he has developed as a photo journalist and editor bringing his writing skills to many of our publications. He is also responsible for the conceptualisation and development of advertisements and advertising campaigns, both for our own publications and for various clients. He is also a published poet and author.
Craig D’Oliveira – Studio/Design Manager
Craig started his career in design as a technical illustrator in the late 80’s, where he produced the support documentation for various complex technical projects. Craig furthered his DTP and design skills over a seven-year-period, working in the printing industry. He joined the Uhuru production team as a designer and for the past 10 years has ensured that all our publications are of the highest standards of excellence.
Kurt Nassen - Production Manager
Kurt always had a passion for the printing and publishing industry and in 1989 entered an apprenticeship in photolithography with Edson Clyde Printers. He completed the three-year course and took charge of their pre-press operation. Later he joined other companies including Paarl Web, and garnered experience in the entire production chain. Kurt joined Uhuru four years ago to ensure that our products received personal attention. His presence ensures that world-class quality products are produced.
Lara Johnson - Picture Manager
Lara has worked in the publishing industry as a picture buyer/manager for 10 years.
She has been with Uhuru for five years. Her role in the company is critical, ensuring that all images – across all our publications - are appropriate and to the correct specifications. Apart from sourcing images, briefing photographers and liaising with writers and photographers, she manages our own photo library: Uhuru Images.
Tommy Wildschudt - National Sales Director
After completing studies in Computer Data Processing and Project/Sales Management, Tommy joined Uhuru Communications as a sales executive. Today, with 10 year’s service in the company, he holds the position of National Sales Director. Tommy has a passion for sales and advertising and leads and manages a strong, equally passionate team of sales staff based in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.
Samm Bain - Group Sales Manager
Samm has worked as an Account Director for some of the top advertising agencies in Cape Town. From newspapers to billboards to magazines, she has spent the past 11 years gaining experience of print media as well as designing and implementing 360 communication strategies. She brings this valuable experience to Uhuru.
Nardine Nelson – Key Accounts Manager
After working as a high-powered sales executive for various Cape Town publishing houses, Nardine joined Uhuru communications over 5 years ago, bringing her unique skills to Uhuru’s sales division. Nardine is ‘key’ to the overall success of this division as she is singularly responsible for developing and maintaining Uhuru’s excellent relationships with our government and municipal accounts; including the Tourism departments of all nine provinces.
Monique Fontaine - Accounts Manager
With a National Diploma in Cost & Management Accounting and 10 years working experience at Uhuru, Monique heads a dedicated team and is responsible for the implementation, management and smooth flow of all matters relating to accounts and administration.
