Celebrating 40 Years of Impact: Spotlight on Former-Employee Thekiso Lefifi

As part of Ornico’s “40 Years Ahead of the Curve” campaign, we are proud to spotlight the stories of those who have shaped our journey. This campaign celebrates the employees and clients who have contributed to Ornico’s success and growth over the decades. Through personal stories like Thekiso’s, we highlight the human connections and professional achievements that have made Ornico a leader in media monitoring and brand intelligence.

Starting at Ornico: A New Chapter

In the competitive world of media monitoring, few stories capture the essence of growth and adventure quite like that of Thekiso, who joined Ornico in the early 2000s. His journey with the company not only marked a significant professional transition but also became a personal milestone that would shape his life in unexpected ways.

Embracing the Adventure

Thekiso’s career at Ornico began in 2004, after leaving Monitoring SA, “a sometimes-fierce competitor” claims Thekiso. At Ornico, he took on various roles, including sales, and quickly became an integral part of the team. For two years, he thrived in an environment that was both challenging and rewarding.

Love and Pride in the Workplace

When reflecting on what kept him motivated during his time at Ornico, Thekiso points to the love and adventure of the job. “I’ve always been proud of the company,” he says. “Ornico punched above its weight. We were the smaller company on the block, but we still managed to acquire the lion’s share of media and advertising monitoring.”

A Personal Connection

One of the most defining aspects of Thekiso’s time at Ornico was how it helped him grow both professionally and personally. It was through Ornico that he met his wife, who was one of the company’s clients. “We met over 20 years ago when she was part of JWT. I sold her advertising monitoring services, and one day, the agency was having an event. I was invited, and the rest is history,” he fondly recalls.

Witnessing Growth and Evolution

During his tenure, Thekiso witnessed Ornico’s transformation from a small, dynamic outfit run by energetic and ambitious entrepreneurs into a powerhouse in the media monitoring industry. This evolution not only highlighted Ornico’s growth but also showcased the company’s ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape.

Lessons Learned for Future Success

Thekiso credits his experience at Ornico with preparing him for future success. “I learned to negotiate with tough people,” he notes, underscoring the invaluable skills and resilience he developed during his time there.

Thekiso’s journey with Ornico is a testament to the company’s impact on its employees, fostering both professional development and personal connections. His story exemplifies the spirit of Ornico—a company that, despite its size, continues to make a significant impact in the media and advertising monitoring industry.

A Heartfelt Thanks

We extend our deepest gratitude to Thekiso for sharing his inspiring story and for his invaluable contributions to Ornico. His journey reflects the spirit of innovation and commitment that has driven our company forward. We also want to thank all our employees, past and present, who have played a crucial role in Ornico’s success. Your dedication and passion continue to shape our legacy and future as we move forward together, remaining a powerhouse in the industry.