Over the years technology and culture have developed a relationship that has seen one affect the other to fascinating effect. In this episode of Tech Talk with Vodacom, we speak to Deshnie Govender, Global Brand & Culture Marketing Leader and former TikTok Global Marketing Lead. Tune in if you’re curious about the future of content, the evolution of media, and the powerful ways in which culture and technology shape each other.
Pivoting from her beginnings as one of Africa’s first female DJs, Deshnie transitioned into agency and consulting before climbing the ranks at drink giants AB InBev and Diageo, where she took on functional roles in digital & influencer, before moving into brand management for global alcohol brands with a local cultural lens across Africa. She was later tapped by TikTok to launch its marketing division in Africa, eventually being promoted into the global marketing team working on integrated partnerships and campaigns in Japan, Korea, EU and US.
She is also the founder of Hype & Happening, a platform empowering marketing professionals through community, insight, and storytelling. A sought-after thought leader, judge, and speaker, Deshnie has delivered keynotes for brands like Unilever, L’Oréal, Telkom, and Nedbank, sharing insights on marketing and culture, with a focus on turning global trends into local impact. Her work has been featured in Forbes, MTV, and Glamour, and she has judged and chaired prestigious awards including the Effies, Loeries, and IAB Bookmarks. Her work champions authentic brand building rooted in cultural fluency and audience-first thinking.
Connect with Deshnie:
LinkedIn | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast | Website
