In an exclusive interview with Corporate World magazine, Leruo Monang, a passionate political commentator and the visionary founder of The San African magazine, shares insights into his inspiring journey and how he amplifies a distinct and powerful African voice in the global arena
Leruo Monang combines a deep commitment to Afro-centric perspectives with a profound understanding of politics and contemporary issues. His work challenges traditional narratives, offering fresh, authentic analyses that highlight the African experience and viewpoint. Leruo's mission is to enrich global dialogue by ensuring that diverse, underrepresented voices are heard and valued on the world stage.
Through his leadership, The San African has become a key platform for reshaping how African stories are told and understood globally, collaborating with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to shape the conversations that matter most.
Leruo’s technical expertise in Robotic Process Automation, Data Science, and Capital Markets informs his approach to content creation, driving strategic decision-making and future-focused storytelling. His vision extends beyond merely reporting on Africa’s progress—he is actively involved in shaping the continent’s future through digital innovation and impactful storytelling. Let’s take an in-depth look at his remarkable journey and visionary leadership.
Q1: Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey so far?
My journey began with a deep curiosity for storytelling and technology, which naturally evolved into a career at the crossroads of media, innovation, and social impact. Driven by a passion for reshaping narratives, I founded The San African, a digital magazine dedicated to amplifying African voices and preserving cultural heritage through creative expression. Alongside this venture, I also launched the Raptors FC Social Club, a platform focused on empowering youth and fostering community engagement. This path has been a dynamic blend of bold ideas and strategic execution, allowing me to create platforms that not only challenge existing narratives but also drive meaningful change. The recognition of my work by both the Office of the President and the African Narratives Collective stands as a testament to the impact of these initiatives, and fuels my ongoing commitment to reshaping global perceptions of Africa.
Q2: What would you consider the biggest turning point in your career?
The decision to build The San African was a pivotal moment in my career—a true turning point. It represented more than just a shift from writing stories to creating a platform that empowers others to share their narratives. This leap required not only a bold creative vision but also the entrepreneurial resilience to build something that could transcend traditional media. I wanted to establish a platform that could serve as both a cultural and economic force, one that would amplify African voices and perspectives on a global stage. The challenge was significant, but the opportunity to reshape the narrative was even greater, and it fuel my commitment to creating a lasting impact through The San African.
Q3: What is your approach to leadership, and how do you motivate your team?
For me, leadership is fundamentally about having a clear sense of purpose and the ability to inspire trust in those around you. It’s not just about giving direction but also about setting an example—holding myself to the same high standards I expect from my team. I believe true leadership is built on integrity and consistency, where actions speak louder than words. Motivation, in my view, is rooted in creating a shared sense of ownership and responsibility within the team. When individuals understand that their contributions are not just tasks to complete but are part of a greater vision or cause, they feel empowered and connected to something meaningful. This sense of purpose fuels innovation, fosters creativity, and drives unwavering commitment. It’s when people feel that their work truly matters, and they can see the impact of their efforts, that they become fully invested in the success of the team and the organization as a whole. By nurturing this collective ownership, we pave the way for a culture of excellence and growth.
Q4: What core values or principles guide your decision-making process?
Every decision I make is driven by purpose, authenticity, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact. I constantly evaluate: Does this align with our vision? Does it deliver value to the people we serve? Will it leave a lasting, positive legacy? By grounding my decisions in these principles, I ensure that our strategy remains focused and resilient, even amidst uncertainty, enabling us to stay on course and make decisions that truly matter.
Q5: What strategies do you use to foster innovation within your organization?
Innovation thrives on a balance of curiosity and discipline. I encourage my team to think creatively and push boundaries, while always staying connected to the needs of our audience. We explore new tools, embrace diverse storytelling formats, and hold regular brainstorming sessions to keep ideas fresh. Our approach is rooted in experimentation, but it’s also driven by intentional listening—constantly gathering feedback and refining our work to ensure it remains relevant, impactful, and aligned with what matters most to our audience. This dynamic process allows us to stay ahead and consistently deliver innovative content.
Q6: How has your industry evolved in recent years, and where do you see it heading?
The media landscape is undergoing rapid digitization, with audiences demanding authenticity and access over traditional models. I see the future in multimedia platforms that build genuine connections, blending paywalled exclusivity with shareable, impactful content. African media, in particular, will play a crucial role in reshaping global perspectives about the continent.
Q7: How do you stay updated with industry developments and maintain a competitive edge?
I stay deeply connected to the ever-evolving trends in my industry by actively engaging with thought leadership networks such as ForbesBLK and participating in influential forums like Bloomberg’s. These platforms provide invaluable insights and keep me at the forefront of emerging developments. In addition, I make it a point to continuously read, learn from industry peers, and immerse myself in cutting-edge ideas. By testing and experimenting with new concepts in real-time, I ensure that I am not merely observing change from the sidelines but actively contributing to shaping it. This approach allows me to stay agile, informed, and engaged with the forces driving innovation, positioning me to make a meaningful impact in my field.
Q8: How do you manage work-life balance while maintaining peak performance?
For me, balance is all about intention, not perfection. Running helps clear my mind, while journaling allows me to center my thoughts, and engaging in meaningful conversations fuels my creativity. I’ve learned that rest and reflection deserve as much intentionality in my schedule as work—because nurturing both mind and body is essential for sustained performance and long-term success.
Leruo Monang’s Inspiring Story leruo-monangs-inspiring-story
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