The Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA) is well known for its level of involvement in promoting public relations to both professional practitioners and students. It held presentations on the 12 March 2013 at three Independent Institutions of Education namely Varsity College Sandton, Midrand and Pretoria.

The presentations were headed up by PRISA’s membership department, Susan Richardson, Lindiwe Majola and me. The presentations were aimed at informing students about PRISA, what PRISA does and also educate the students about the importance of joining PRISA and the benefits of becoming a student member.

The students were eager, excited and actively involved by asking questions about the levels of registration and how they can prepare for the industry. Varsity College’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd year Public Relations and Events Management students attended. The stars of the day were Varsity College Sandton and Pretoria campuses. The students came in large numbers to hear what PRISA representatives had to say and what effect the registration with PRISA will have for them after graduation.

After listening to the inspiring talk given by the representatives, the students were very keen to register with PRISA. Some started filling in their application forms immediately.

Importantly, the team inspired the students and I shared with them my experiences at PRISA and how becoming a member has changed my leadership qualities and my view of public relations.

Written by Vincent Maake