Alumni Spotlight Series: Hloni Tseke

From Public Relations to Strategic Stakeholder Relations

For Hloni Tseke, communication has always been about more than sharing information. It is about understanding people, building trust and creating meaningful connections.

Today, Hloni is the Stakeholder Relations Manager at CIGFARO, where he oversees the organisation’s provincial branches across South Africa and its chapters outside the country. He is also responsible for strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and ensuring meaningful engagement supports the organisation’s strategic objectives.

Holding a B-Tech Degree in Integrated Communication from TUT and a Diploma in Public Relations from The IIE, Hloni has seen his career evolve from traditional communication and public relations into strategic relationship management.

“I have always been passionate about people, communication and creating connections that make a difference, so my current role feels like a natural progression of both my professional journey and my personal strengths,” he says.

Building Relationships That Matter

Hloni’s career has taught him that effective communication goes beyond delivering a message. It is about building trust, understanding different perspectives and creating mutually beneficial relationships. His approach is rooted in authenticity, consistency and active listening. For him, professional networking should never be purely transactional.

“The strongest professional relationships are built when you genuinely take an interest in people, understand their perspectives and look for ways to create value for one another,” he says. His experience has also taught him the importance of patience and intentionality when navigating different expectations and personalities.

A Foundation at The IIE 

The IIE’s Rosebank College, now Rosebank International played an important role in shaping Hloni’s professional journey. During his student years, he served as Head of Internal Communications on the Student Council in 2013, before becoming President of the Student Council and Senate Representative in 2014.

His Diploma in Public Relations provided him with a foundation in communication, professionalism and relationship management, while his work in marketing and communications at Rosebank International gave him valuable exposure to the industry.

Looking back, Hloni says the lessons from his student years continue to influence his career today. “The qualification gave me the foundation, but my career has taught me how to apply that knowledge strategically.”

Advice for Future Communicators

For current Public Relations students, Hloni encourages them to view their qualification as the beginning of their learning journey. He advises students to ask questions, volunteer for opportunities, learn from experienced professionals and remain open to starting small. Most importantly, he encourages them to remain authentic.

“Your career will evolve, but your reputation will follow you. Build a reputation for being reliable, professional, curious and someone who genuinely cares about the work they do.”

For Hloni, success is ultimately about meaningful impact, authentic relationships and contributing to something bigger than himself. His journey is a reminder that a strong foundation in communication can open doors to careers that extend far beyond traditional public relations, creating opportunities to connect people, organisations, purpose and strategy.