What it takes to succeed in a creative career 

Traditionally, kids are encouraged to aim for high-paying careers in engineering, finance, law or medicine rather than following their passion. But can a creative career lead to big bucks, too? We share tips for maximising your talent

What if Trevor Noah had gone into accounting instead of comedy, or Charlize Theron into engineering instead of acting? Growing up in South Africa, finding stardom in Hollywood must have seemed so unlikely that a well-meaning teacher or parent might have steered them towards a STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) career – for job security and more promising earning potential.

But let’s face it – while things worked out beautifully for Trevor and Charlize, most young South Africans won’t become rich and famous through their creative skills. Even so, this doesn’t mean you should avoid creative career paths. If you have the talent, passion and grit, you could go for it and work your way up to earn a decent income in a creative profession.

You could possibly even earn big bucks, if you make it to a position in senior management, such as an account director in an ad agency, a film producer or an executive chef.

“Be aware that entry-level salaries are low,” says local industrial psychologist Annie Oehley, who is also a career guidance counsellor. “The cream at the top is hard to get, but it’s not impossible.”