Frieda Shongwe (42) is a public relations coordinator at Carnival City. The Vosloorus resident has worked at the casino complex for 17 years and has been in her current post for nine years. Frieda is mom to Molefe (22) and Katlego (9), and has been married to Lodrick (44) for 12 years.
• What are your duties as a PR coordinator?
Ensuring that the brand receives correct and appropriate exposure in the media.
Assisting the PR manager in generating publicity for Carnival City’s events.
Distributing press releases/communications to targeted media.
Managing relationships with outsourced services, media and suppliers.
Helping to maintain the organisation’s corporate image and identity.
• What is the most exciting part of the job?
I enjoy the level of open and direct communication.
This moves things along quickly and few things are left unsaid.
It also means that my colleagues/friends with who I’m working in my department are open and communications flow.
Another thing I like is the ability to learn new things and take on more responsibilities, and I’m in a constant state of growth.
• Of all the acts, musicians, bands, comedians who have performed at Carnival City, who has impressed you the most?
The gospel and comedy shows.
•Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
Yes, playing netball and listening to music.
I also enjoy volunteer work/community involvement and cooking.
• Who would play you in the film of your life? Why?
Caryn Elaine Johnson, known professionally by her stage name, Whoopi Goldberg.
She is a straight talker and does not mix what she’s saying.
• What’s your most cherished family tradition? Why is it important?
We get together every second Sunday after church.
We attend different churches and rotate houses between my mom’s, her sister and my two uncles.
Whoever hosts provides lunch for 10 to 15 people.
We catch up and discuss lots and lots of family stuff and ideas.
We have a very good relationship, and this keeps it close and strong.
• If you could keep only five possessions, what would they be?
My family and friends, my phone, earphones, home and money.
• What are you most afraid of?
Failure, rats and cockroaches, and walking alone at night.
• What is your favourite thing about Brakpan?
Carnival City.
