Cape Town and Johannesburg-based production company, Robot, has announced that Ayanda Tshabalala will be joining the Jozi team to facilitate the growing demand for commercial work. Ayanda will be bringing her years of industry experience, across various fields in advertising and production, by stepping in as Executive Producer.

Ayanda has spent almost 15 years in this industry working across agency, marketing, post, audio and production #Overachiever She began her career in the marketing department at Velocity Films, before joining FCB as a producer working alongside one of her mentors Rachel Andreotti. Ayanda joined Joe Public United about 7 years ago as a TV Producer and then moved to the post-production side, producing for Paul West and Myles McDonald at Hey Papa Legend. She then found her way back to FCB as a TV Producer before taking the leap to commercial production and joining Robot. All this wealth of experience means Ayanda genuinely understands what clients need, what agencies want and how the post process best operates and she brings a holistic perspective to commercial production.

Since opening their doors in Cape Town in 2014, Robot has steadily been expanding their talent roster, commercial offering and their South African footprint by opening a second office in Joburg. Robot Jozi soon saw the need for an industry veteran to step in, support and take the lead for commercial work. Robot Founder, Liam Johnson says of the signing: ‘I worked with Ayanda as an Agency Producer on one of Robot’s 1st big director-based jobs, Black Cat, directed by Paul Ramaema. I was immediately drawn to her warmth and intellect and the way she handles the most high-pressure situations with the utmost ease. I love those qualities in a producer and thought I would love to work with her more. When I heard she was leaving FCB I got pretty excited and thought she would be great to lead our Johannesburg team. She’s the beating heart of Jozi and everyone seems to be drawn to her energy.’

On the decision to join the team at Robot Ayanda says: ‘Honestly, I have such incredible chemistry with the team that it feels like a welcoming home for me. For years I’ve wanted to be where the action is and finally being able to join this energetic group of people and work with these talented directors, it’s a dream come true.’

Even more striking than Ayanda’s experience is her character. Truly she makes you want to hustle hard, but always with a great sense of humour. Ayanda’s passion lies with the industry and her heart with young talent, saying: ‘I know how meaningful mentorship in this industry and it’s always been important that young people know my door is always open. I try and impart my knowledge wherever it’s needed and I’m really transparent about what I know about this industry. If I can make any young talent’s path just a little bit easier, I raise my hand.’

Wanna (s)talk some more? Robot on IDIDTHAT and Company Website.