Durban - Former Durbanite Verona Duwarkah has just landed a plum role - chief executive of Urban Brew Studios, a leading African content creator that has provided global entertainment solutions and services since 1995.
Since her appointment earlier this month, Duwarkah, formerly of KwaDukuza (Stanger), said she was getting to know her team and reviewing strategies that were already in place.
Her aim, she said, was to strengthen Urban Brew Studios, as she believes the company has a vast potential.
“It has the ability to be the leading creator of innovative content ideas, which will be produced for any platform, in collaboration with multiple partners applying a variety of business models across all genres, using the best technologies available,” she said.
With more than 26 years’ experience in the media environment, Duwarkah was head-hunted by Kagiso Media to take on the position.
“Joining Urban Brew provides me with a wonderful opportunity to do the work I love, while making a difference within the business, with my years of experience.”
Duwarkah, who said she had practical experience in most aspects of the media business, is a former SABC TV executive.
She parted ways with the national broadcaster last September.
“My experience ranges from content management, television channel management, finance and operations management in the media space, strategy development and implementation, as well as executive management. All this experience will enable me to provide strategic direction and drive the implementation thereof in an efficient and effective manner.”
She told POST that the media business changed frequently, from technology to evolving business models, leading to new ways of content creation and distribution.
“The company (Urban Brew Studios) needs to grow to adapt constantly to this through technology enhancements, upskilling of teams and hiring of the best resources to execute the respective functions, to ensure best possible results for clients.”
Duwarkah takes over from Richard Tsai, who was appointed chief operating officer of Urban Brew Studios. She currently lives in Randburg, Gauteng, with her partner and two children, Bianca and Jiten.